Traffic engineering and street lighting

Traffic signals are used to control the flow of traffic.

Controlled light signals, which differ in shape and color, provide road users with appropriate rules of behavior.

In Germany, control is regulated according to the technical regulations “Richtlinien für Lichtsignalanlagen” (RiLSA).

The intervals are defined in a signal time schedule or are implemented depending on the volume of traffic, e.g. varying according to day, night, peak times, or on request.

So-called priority circuits enable public transport to be given priority over other road users at traffic signals, depending on the timetable.

By counting the vehicles entering and leaving a parking lot, a system calculates the number of free spaces and transmits this information to a computer, making it available to road users or displaying it directly. Dynamic parking guidance systems are adapted to the flow of traffic in cities and guide road users accordingly.

Street lights usually consist of a housing, a translucent cover, control gear such as ballasts and igniters, optical systems such as mirrors, and light sources. In some cases, they are fed locally via photovoltaic systems and contain the corresponding components.

Street lighting can be switched on and off centrally or decentrally via a twilight switch. Other options include the use of audio frequency or radio ripple control technology, timers, calls, or messaging. Gas lighting is usually operated via remote gas ignition.

In most cases, street lighting is connected via a separately laid lighting cable. This is connected to the general power supply via a switch box, which often supplies several streets.