level crossings
SEA has collaborated with ALC to develop a safety solution that is intended to make level crossings much safer for motorists. Credit: SEA.

Software and transport systems developer SEA has partnered with the Aluminium Lighting Company (ALC) to develop a solution aimed at making level crossings safer in the UK.

The technology will also assist in augmenting the installation and maintenance of SEA’s ROADflow Signal traffic enforcement system.

SEA said that the ALC has produced a customised echelon hinge column that meets the requirements of the ROADflow Signal system and facilitates easy accessibility to the mounted camera when the hinged pole folds down.

ALC chairman Barry Williams said: “The ROADflow Signal system is vital for ensuring the safety of both road and rail passengers, and through the use of the ALC hinge column, we eliminate the need for road closures or lifting equipment when the system is being installed or maintained.

“This not only makes the system significantly easier and quicker to install but gives greater flexibility for maintenance.”

The ROADflow Signal system uses advanced video analytics to identify the level crossing’s flashing red lights, which warn drivers to stop.

In addition, the system produces an evidence pack using the automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology when a vehicle violates the crossing and passes the barrier stop line.

SEA complex systems director Martin Kelly said: “The innovative hinge pole is the result of two years of dedicated research and development to enhance the installation and maintenance of our ROADflow Signal system and will be installed on 58 sites by the end of 2019.

“This will help save lives, protect the public and positively affect driver behaviour to reduce the number of level crossing offences and fatalities across the UK.”

A subsidiary of Cohort, SEA has secured the UK Home Office’s approval to supply high-integrity software and systems development for the transport sector. Its client list includes Transport for London (TfL), Network Rail and more than 50 councils across the UK.