The Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s (MassDOT) Real Traffic Time Monitoring initiative is aimed at relieving congestion on highly-trafficked areas of Cape Cod, MA, during the busy tourist seasons.
As part of this project, SES America (SESA) recently partnered with Coviello Electric, Inc. to install 24 solar-powered, task-specific dynamic message signs (DMS) at strategic locations across Cape Cod. These signs inform motorists of travel time information at key locations along busy stretches of highway. The clever thing about these DMS is that information is updated via Bluetooth readers in conjunction with the travel time modules, all powered solely by the use of solar panels.
"We are thrilled to have worked with MassDOT on this unique project, and meet the specific needs for these solar DMS installations on Cape Cod," said Brandon Tessier, regional manager for SESA Eastern US.
"SESA’s focus is always on customised solutions and innovation, with energy efficiency leading that charge."
Signs are installed on northbound and southbound sides of busy Route 6, which is a major artery that runs the full stretch of Cape Cod. The most notable location is at Hyannis, the busiest and most populous town on the Cape. There is also a DMS installed in Plymouth along Route 3, the major highway used to travel from Boston. Other locations include Falmouth, Sandwich, Wareham, and Yarmouth.
Each sign uses advanced, high-efficiency display boards outfitted with high-intensity light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and a patented tilting mechanism capable of refining the viewing angle to ensure the travel times are visible to all passing motorists. All of the DMS are permanent installations that will function for many years (the average life of DMS is 12 to 15 years). Solar equipment allows them to operate year-round.
"This project was an opportunity to use years of research and development to provide DMS that require an extraordinarily low amount of power so we could satisfy the autonomy requirements MassDOT laid out," added Mr. Tessier.
"To be part of this process of providing an environmentally-friendly solution that will assist travellers on the busy highways of the Cape for years to come has been very rewarding."
For more information, please contact SES America.