Mounted on existing traffic signals, SmartCycle bike indicator device gives cyclists confirmation of detection for safer crossing. Credit: Iteris, Inc.

US-based company Iteris has introduced a series of new improvements to its SmartCycle bicycle detection technology that can detect bicycles at signalised road intersections.

The solution was initially released in 2013 and now comes with a SmartCycle Bike Indicator, a mountable and easy-to-install device which will alert cyclists of their detection.

It is expected to increase the safety of the cyclists at road intersections, as well as reduce waiting time.

The US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data revealed that bicyclist fatalities touched a seven-year high in 2015, with a 13% rise compared to the previous year.

The enhancement of the solution will indicate the bicyclists that they have been detected and enable smooth intersection.

“Iteris has always invested in ensuring that our object detection algorithms are world class.”

It will also help them to avoid potential safety hazards while waiting at the intersection.

Iteris Roadway Sensors senior vice-president and general manager Todd Kreter said: “Iteris has always invested in ensuring that our object detection algorithms are world class.

“As agencies are consistently demanding more from their detection systems, we will continue to provide value-add features like SmartCycle and address the growing population of bicyclists and other modes to support improved safety initiatives.”

SmartCycle is capable of differentiating between bicycles and vehicles.

After making this distinction, the solution sends special outputs to the traffic controller where the traffic engineers can alter signal timing, giving the cyclists sufficient green signal time to cross the road intersection safely.