How does it work? The Ayalon Highway traffic control system operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The system incorporates means for data collection including detectors and cameras, a manned control center, data dissemination system, and an advanced communications system. The system includes advanced computerized systems under the control of an experienced team of operators who decide the appropriate course of action for every situation. The system components are described below. Control Center The control center is at the very heart of the system, containing all that is required for traffic management. Every operator station is equipped with a terminal connected to the central computer, and with camera control, telephones and radio communication sets. An entire wall is dedicated to television screens displaying pictures received from the cameras and to an electronic map displaying data received in real time from the data collection system. When an alert is received about an irregular event, the control center is transformed into an operations room, linked directly to the emergency services (the Police, MDA, fire fighting services), as well as to other control centers. The operator uses the cameras to check the nature of the incident, and if necessary, utilizes the traffic signs and other signs stationed along the road, and alerts the appropriate entities. Communications Infrastructure The communications network links the information collection system on the Highway with the traffic control center. The network is based on the reliable FDDI technology, and includes an optic fiber network featuring a 100 million bit transfer rate. Data Collection System Sixty detector stations collect data from 500 loop detectors buried the width of the road at intervals of 500m, and provide current information on traffic characteristics: traffic volume, traveling speed, types of vehicles, and density. The data are reported every 5 minutes and processed in the central computer which identifies changes in traffic flows and issues alerts about them. Control Cameras Twelve closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras are stationed at key points, providing full coverage of the activity on the Highway. The operator has control over the camera and can track traffic status and manage incidents until the road is cleared. The cameras are intended exclusively for traffic control, and are not used for law enforcement purposes. Variable Text Signs Seven gantry-mounted electronic signs (six signs along the road, and another one on Road No. 5 before the turn-off to the to the Ayalon Highway) enable the display of text messages sent from the control center. The information includes the state of traffic ahead and allows drivers to select an alternative route. Lane Control Signs Electronic traffic signs are mounted on thirty two gantries stationed along the Highway and controlled by the traffic control center.Each traffic sign addresses the traffic lane under it, enabling display of the speed limit in that lane, warnings about traffic congestion, a closed lane, and instructions for changing lanes. The traffic signs have been certified by the Ministry of Transportation, and are binding on drivers, just as any regular traffic sign. Expert System An exclusive expert system at the traffic control center analyzes the information received from the detectors, distinguishes between traffic situations, tracks their development, and recommends a strategy for action to the operator, including details of the messages and traffic signs to be displayed by the signage system. It is up to the operator whether to approve or modify the plan. Information Dissemination System In addition to issuing direct traffic reports to Highway users, up-to-date traffic information is also disseminated to radio broadcasters and other channels. Information about anticipated disruptions in view of road works is distributed to the media in advance. The traffic control center is updated by, and exchanges information with, the control centers at the Israel Police, and Public Works Department, and with the Tel Aviv Urban Traffic Control Center.

System Objectives Control Center Operations Traffic Control Signs Future Plans

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