Project name

Installation of a pedestrian traffic light for the safety of the community of the Technological Institute
from Apizaco

Background

Road transport benefits both nations and individuals because it facilitates the
movement of goods and people. It allows greater access to jobs, markets
economic factors, education, which in turn positively impacts directly and indirectly on the
health of populations. However, the increase in road transport has also had a
significant impact on people's health, according to the 2018 report from the secretary of
health, 21 pedestrians are killed every day. National level data informs that the
the majority of fatal traffic accident victims are those most vulnerable: the
pedestrians. The latest figures from 2018 indicate that 7 out of 10 deaths on the roads are not
they were traveling by car. Most of them occurred in student and commercial areas, places
where people move around a lot at all times. The deadliest entities for pedestrians are
Tabasco, Tlaxcala, Durango, Colima, and Nayarit.

Problem statement

The Technological Institute of Apizaco is located in the area where vehicular flow is
constant, however, no measures have been implemented since its construction
security that allows safeguarding the community of the campus for access to its facilities,
resulting in a person having a high percentage of suffering a vehicle accident.

Justification

The reasons that led us to investigate the benefits it would have for the community of
Technological Institute of Apizaco the installation of a pedestrian traffic light at the entrance access
number 3 of this same, focuses on the fact that this vulnerable population sector is found
more exposed than the rest of the nearby student communities to the
risks of suffering some automotive accident, due to the lack of means to regulate the flow
vehicular. We aim to help safeguard every member belonging to the institute to
through a device that is easy to install and use, as well as generate knowledge motives that
help with the implementation of these devices in each and every community
students throughout the state.

General objective

Establish the importance of installing a pedestrian traffic light for safety.

from the ITA community
Specific objectives

. Conduct surveys in the ITA community.

. Graph the information obtained from the surveys.

. Visit the department in charge of monitoring entries and exits.

. Supervise the access during peak hours.

. Collect information when monitoring access.

. Survey someone in charge of the latest research on the topic.

. To know the factors that prevent the works from being carried out.

. Obtain information about the incidents that have occurred in recent years.

Hypothesis

The installation of a pedestrian traffic light will allow crossing the road safely for anyone.
a person who wishes to enter the facilities of the Apizaco Technological Institute, in addition to
reduce the risk of it experiencing a vehicle accident
 Theoretical Framework

Traffic light

1.1 Generalities

Traffic lights are signaling devices through which traffic is regulated.

vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians on roads, assigning the right of way or precedence to vehicles and
pedestrians sequentially, according to the signals of red, yellow, and green lights, operated
for an electronic control unit.

The traffic light is a useful device for control and safety, both for vehicles and for
pedestrians. Due to the allocation, set or determined by traffic, of the right of way for
the different movements at intersections and other locations on the roads, the traffic light exerts a
profound influence on the flow of traffic. Therefore, it is of vital importance that the selection
and use of such an important regulatory artifact should be preceded by a thorough study of the site and
of the traffic conditions.

1.1.2 Uses

The traffic lights will be used to perform, among others, the following functions:

Periodically interrupt the flow of vehicular or pedestrian traffic to

allow the passage of another vehicle current.
Regulate the speed of vehicles to maintain continuous traffic at a
constant speed.
Control the traffic by lanes.
Eliminate or reduce the number and severity of some accidents, mainly
those that involve perpendicular collisions.
Provide traffic management.

1.1.3 Classification

Traffic lights for vehicle control

Traffic lights not activated by traffic

a. Without synchronization mechanism for isolated intersections.
b. With synchronization mechanisms for isolated intersections.
c. Enables coordination for successive intersections.
2. Traffic light activated by traffic
Totally powered.
b. Partially powered.
3. Traffic lights for pedestrian crossings
a. In areas of high pedestrian traffic.
b. In school zones.
 4. Special traffic lights
a. Flashing traffic lights.
b. Traffic lights for emergency vehicle maneuvers.
c. Traffic lights to indicate the approach of trains.

1.1.4 Elements that make up a traffic light

Head: It is the casing that contains the visible parts of the traffic light. Each head
contains a certain number of faces oriented in different directions.

Supports: They are the structures used to hold the traffic light head and have
as a function to place the light elements of the traffic light in the position where the
the driver and the pedestrian have the best visibility and can observe their indications.
Some support elements must allow angular and vertical adjustments.
horizontal edges of the traffic lights.

Due to their location at the intersection, the supports are classified as follows

Location next to the road:

Posts
short brackets
Located on the way
Long brackets attached to side posts
Suspension cables
Posts and pedestals on islands

Face: It is the set of optical units (lens, reflector, lamp or bulb and
lamp post) that are oriented in the same direction. On each side of the traffic light
there will usually be at least two, usually three, or more optical units to regulate one or
more circulation movements.

Lens: It is the part of the optical unit that directs the light coming from refraction.
lamp and its reflector in the desired direction.

Contrast plate: Element used to increase the visibility of the traffic light and avoid
What other light sources may confuse the driver.

1.1.5 Control equipment

It is an electromechanical or electronic mechanism that is used to manage the changes of lights in

the traffic lights. Additionally, it can perform the following functions: process the information
generated by the detectors to adjust the times to the needs of the intersection; receive and
send information to a control center or master controller in order to operate in a way
coordinated; and provide the elements that ensure the safety of users by preventing
conflicting signals and report to the control center the type of failure that may occur.
1.1.6 Detectors

They are devices capable of recording traffic variables such as: volume, speed,
occupation, sense, type of traffic, presence, etc., and generate signals to be analyzed by the
local controller or the central controller.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance is very important for the efficient operation of the

traffic lights and to prolong their useful life. In addition, the authority and the respect that
Traffic lights inspire because of their precise and exact indications. Traffic lights with
imprecise instructions cannot enforce the necessary respect. The maintenance costs are
they must take into account when acquiring the equipment; sometimes, a low initial cost can lead to
uneconomical if the maintenance cost is high.

1.1.7.1 Maintenance Record

Detailed maintenance records must be kept and analyzed at regular intervals.

to determine the future practices to follow regarding equipment purchases and
maintenance program. Well-kept maintenance work records,
sound translations from various points of view:

Your analysis will help determine whether the work program of

the maintenance being followed is satisfactory.
Cost analysis is used to determine the most important equipment
advantages of acquiring in the future and to improve procedures
of maintenance.
Maintenance records are often useful for
authorities involved in case of accidents.

The maintenance records will contain the time spent and the costs of
cleaning, lubrication, adjustment in the times or pre-synchronization, general repairs
replacement of lamps, painting and 246 various jobs for each of the traffic lights and
controls

1.1.7.2 Painting

The entire traffic light system must be painted at least once a year (or more.
frequency, if necessary) and cleaned every six months to prevent corrosion,
keep the optical elements in good condition of brightness and maintain the
good appearance of them. The poles and brackets must be painted yellow
white, with black stripes and to be repainted at least every year, or more frequently
if necessary. The internal parts of the visors that are used around the lenses, to
Just like the traffic light, they must be painted in matte black to reduce light reflection.
1.2 Traffic lights for the control of vehicle traffic

1.2.1 General aspects

1.2.1.1 Classification

Traffic lights for controlling vehicle traffic are classified as follows

form:

Traffic lights with fixed or predetermined times (dependent on time).

Traffic light activated or triggered by traffic (dependent on
transit):
Totally driven (totally dependent on transit).
Partially driven (semi-dependent on transit).
1.2.1.2 Necessary traffic engineering studies
A prior investigation of the traffic conditions must be carried out.
from the characteristics of the intersection, to determine if it is justified
installation of traffic lights and to provide the necessary data for the design and
the proper operation of a traffic light.
The main data to collect are the following:
Number of vehicles entering the intersection by quarters of
hour and for each access route in a period of 16 hours
consecutive for three (3) representative days. The 16 hours
selected 247 must contain the highest percentage of
24-hour traffic.
The volume of vehicles for each vehicular movement from
each classified access route for vehicles (cars, buses and
trucks) during each period of 15 minutes of the two hours of
maximum demand, for the morning and afternoon periods.
Pedestrian volume in 15-minute intervals for each crossing
during peak vehicle demand hours and peak
pedestrian traffic intensity. Where people
young or older individuals requiring special consideration, pedestrians
they can be classified through a general observation and
register by age groups as follows: older than
13 years, pedestrians between 13 to 50 years and pedestrians over 50
years
The speed of the 85th percentile of all vehicles at the accesses
at uncontrolled intersections and the measurement of the average of
detentions by vehicle before crossing the intersection, which
will allow evaluating the costs of vehicle operation.
A plan
 A diagram with accident statistics, at least during
one year, classified ads, location, circulation seat
consequences, hour, date and day of the week.

1.2.2 Semaphore of fixed or predetermined times

A fixed or predetermined traffic light is a device for traffic control.

which regulates circulation by stopping and proceeding traffic according to a
fixed-term programming or a series of established programs.
The operational characteristics of fixed or predetermined traffic lights, such as
how, cycle duration, interval, sequence, phasing, etc., can be changed
according to a certain program.
Fixed or predetermined time control traffic lights are better adapted to the
intersections where traffic patterns are relatively stable and constant,
or where the variations in traffic that are recorded can find a place through a
pre-synchronized programming without causing unreasonable delays or congestion. The control
Pre-synchronized is particularly adaptable to intersections where coordination is desired.
the operation of traffic lights with existing or planned installations at intersections
nearby on the same street or adjacent streets or at intersections whose capacity
vehicle is at the limit.
1.2.2.1 Traffic light setup must be installed and operated only if satisfied.
one or more of the following requirements or conditions:
Minimum vehicle volume
Interruption of continuous traffic
Minimum volume of pedestrians
Progressive movement or circulation
Background and experience regarding accidents
Combination of the above conditions.

If the circulation volume decreases to 50% or less of the minimum volumes

specified for a period of four consecutive hours or more, is
it is convenient for the normal operations of traffic lights to be replaced by
flash or intermittent operations, which should be restricted to no more than
three different periods during the day.

1.2.2.2 Programming or synchronization of traffic lights

The purpose of a traffic light system is only fulfilled if it is operated in a

consistently and adapts to the needs and requirements of the
transit. Excessively long cycles and their improper division
They cause disrespect and disobedience to the traffic light signals.
One of the greatest difficulties in traffic light synchronization comes from the
need to accommodate two or three radically different volume patterns
several hours during the operating period. Any plan of delays that is
the program will confront the traffic count information to have the
safety that the changes in traffic volumes on the roads are regulated
best possible.

Some of the factors that should be taken into account for scheduling the tempo
the traffic lights at an intersection are:

Saturation flow
Number of traffic lanes and other physical and geometric conditions.
Variations in traffic flow for each directional movement.
Needs of commercial and public transport vehicles.
Period, in seconds, between the passage of two consecutive vehicles that
they leave the intersection.
Needs of pedestrians.
Need to clear the intersection by vehicles and the
pedestrians when changing directions.
Clearing and entry speed of vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians in
function of movement.
Turning movements.

The synchronization of the traffic lights can be considered complete when

it includes a series of intersections with traffic lights that need to be
operated to provide the continuous movement of groups of vehicles.
There are computer programs for these purposes.

1.2.2.3 Coordination of fixed or predetermined traffic lights

In general, all fixed or predetermined traffic lights separated by

yes up to 1,000 m, which control the same traffic on a main road or in a network
preferred route intersections must operate in coordination. Even at
greater distances, coordination may be advisable under certain circumstances
circumstances. The use of interconnected controls is recommended. Without
embargo, coordination cannot be maintained at the borders of systems of
traffic lights that operate on different cycles, so in a coordinated corridor
equal cycles or equivalent cycles must be used (90 - 45, 120 - 60). The
coordination must include both activated and non-activated or pre-traffic lights
synchronized as long as they are placed at appropriate distances. Great
inconveniences and delays are the result of independent operation, not
interrelated installations of closely adjacent traffic lights that
they operate with pre-synchronized control. Most of this delay can
eliminate itself through a carefully planned coordination. It must r
 take into account the operating speed and its impact by exogenous agents
( pavement, vendors).

1.2.2.4 Types of coordination

The most useful classification of traffic light control systems is based on the
coordination method. Since the purpose of this coordination is
organizing and making traffic flow smoothly, it is essential to understand how it will operate
vehicle flow according to the various systems. According to this, there are four types of
synchronization of unactivated or pre-synchronized traffic lights: System
simultaneous, alternate system, limited progressive system, and progressive system
flexible.

1.2.3 Traffic Light Controlled by Traffic

A traffic-light system operated by traffic is a system whose operation varies from

agreement with the traffic demands recorded by the vehicle detectors or
pedestrians, who provide the information to a local control. They will be used in the
intersections where traffic volumes fluctuate considerably in shape
irregular and where the interruptions of circulation must be minimal in the direction
Principal.

Traffic-signal-controlled traffic lights are classified into three general categories:

Fully actuated traffic lights: They have means to be

driven by traffic at all access points of the intersection.
Partially activated traffic lights: They have means to be
driven by traffic in one or more access points of the intersection, but
not in all.
Traffic-adjusted traffic lights: It is a type of traffic light in which the
characteristics of signal deployment in local controllers for
an area or a street, vary continuously according to the
information about traffic flow provided to a computer
master by sampling detectors located at peak flow points in
the area.

For each category, there are different control systems with different applications. If from
In accordance with the corresponding requirements, it is justified to install non-actuated traffic lights.
It is also necessary to analyze the feasibility of using traffic lights activated by the
traffic. However, as traffic-controlled traffic lights are more flexible
for rapid fluctuations and usually do not cause unnecessary delays, it is not
It is advisable to set minimum values for its installation. Some factors that should be
Take into account the following: Vehicle volume, transversal circulation or traffic.
crossed, volumes during peak demand hours, pedestrian circulation, background
 about accidents, traffic fluctuations, complicated intersections, systems
progressive traffic lights, one-way circulation areas, pedestrian crossings
outside the intersection.

1.3 Traffic lights for pedestrian crossings

1.3.1 General aspects

Pedestrian traffic lights are traffic signals installed for the exclusive purpose
to direct pedestrian traffic at signalized intersections. The traffic lights for
Pedestrian crossings will be divided as follows:

In areas of high pedestrian traffic

In school zones

1.3.2 Traffic lights in high pedestrian volume areas

Commonly called pedestrian traffic lights, they regulate pedestrian traffic.

pedestrians at intersections where a high pedestrian volume is recorded and should be installed.
in coordination with traffic lights for vehicles. The traffic lights for pedestrians must be
install when one or more of the requirements indicated below are met:

When the traffic light for controlling vehicle transit is located

installed under a condition of pedestrian volume.
When an exclusive interval or phase is provided for the movement
pedestrian in one or more directions, with all movements halted
vehicle conflicts.
When any volume of pedestrian flow requires the use of a free interval
for them in order to minimize the interference between vehicles and
pedestrians, or when it is necessary to help pedestrians so they can cross the
street with complete certainty.
When pedestrians cross a part of the street from a safe zone or
to her during a certain interval in which they are not allowed to cross in another
part of the street during that interval.
When the circulation of heavy vehicles turning requires a phase
semi-exclusive for the protection of pedestrians.
When the intersection is too wide or complicated or when a street is
so wide that traffic lights for vehicles would not work properly for the
pedestrians.
When the minimum green light interval for vehicles at intersections with
traffic-activated controls are shorter than the time for crossing
pedestrians and equipment is provided to extend the green time for vehicles with
action for pedestrians.
 When, by increasing the cycle intervals through the master control,
pedestrians could be confused if they rely solely on traffic lights
for vehicles.
When pedestrian movement is allowed on one side of an intersection
while continuous traffic is halted to protect the turning movements of
other vehicles, on the other side of the intersection.

The lenses of the pedestrian traffic lights must be red and green.

The interpretation of the pedestrian traffic signal indications will be as follows:

The STOP sign illuminated in red means that pedestrians should not
cross the street towards the sign while it is lit.
The indicated PASE illuminated in green means that pedestrians who are
They can cross the street in the direction of the traffic light.

On the other hand, it is considered essential to provide acoustic signals for pedestrians.
blind people to be informed that there is a controlled pedestrian crossing with traffic lights.

The pedestrian traffic lights will generally be installed on the opposite sidewalk, with their part
less than no less than two meters five centimeters (2.05 m), nor more than 3 meters,
at sidewalk level, so that the indication is in the pedestrian's line of sight
you must be guided by that signal. The areas designated for pedestrian passage
They must provide a ramp to be used by people with disabilities, who...
they move using wheelchairs or other elements. Each traffic light for pedestrians
It can be mounted separately or on the same support as the traffic lights for control.
of the transit of vehicles, there must be a physical separation between them. The face of the
traffic light must be positioned vertically and normally with respect to traffic
the pedestrians.

All the lenses of the traffic lights for pedestrians and cyclists can be circular or
square, as shown in figure 7.18.

The circular lenses must have a diameter of 20 or 30 cm. As for the

square shape, its dimensions will generally be 20 or 30 cm per side. It will be
indispensable that each pedestrian traffic light face has two lenses with the
respective inscriptions and arranged vertically, with the STOP sign remaining in the
top part and the PASS signal at the bottom. The lenses must have inscribed the
message through symbols on a dark background, representing a person who is
walking when given the right of way (PASS), and a person standing when they are prohibited from it
step (STOP). The symbols must be illuminated in red for the indication of
RED and green for the indication of PASS
At pedestrian crossings, where the distance to be covered is greater than 18 meters, the
the symbol will have at least a height of 23 cm, as illustrated in figure 7.19.

The pedestrian indications should draw the attention of passersby, being at

visible mismotempo, both during the day and at night, from any located point
some meters before the intersection and up to the total length to be crossed. When the traffic lights
for pedestrians to be mounted on posts along with traffic lights for vehicle control, if it is
in fact, the indications of these last ones will not be directly visible to pedestrians
at the beginning of their passage; instead, the traffic light for them should be placed
so that it has maximum visibility at the beginning of the crossing of pedestrians. The
indications (faces) for pedestrians should be illuminated for continuous periods. When the
traffic lights for controlling the traffic at an intersection are functioning properly
intermittent, the signals for pedestrians must be turned off. There are several ways in which it
they can combine and operate the phases of pedestrian traffic lights with the phases of the
Traffic lights for vehicle control. Below, four combinations are described.
basics:

Combined phase for pedestrians and vehicles: It is the arrangement of phase for the
Traffic lights for pedestrians to be able to cross through certain steps parallel to the
circulation of vehicles that travel head-on and in which it is allowed for the
same turn crossing said steps.
Semi-exclusive phase for pedestrians and vehicles: It is the arrangement of phases of
traffic lights according to which pedestrians can proceed to use certain crossings
simultaneously with parallel circulations of vehicles or with others
circulations in which vehicles are not allowed to turn crossing the crossings
of the pedestrians, while they are using them. Phase with priority for
pedestrians
Exclusive phase for pedestrians: It is the arrangement of phases that allows for
pedestrians cross the intersection in any direction during an exclusive phase
in which all vehicles are stopped. The use of estetpo is recommended.
of programming accompanied by a pedestrian drive system or
semi-dependence.

In the operation of fixed or predetermined traffic lights, when the time

the minimum of PASS plus that of pedestrian clearance is greater than the necessary interval
For vehicular traffic, the pedestrian one will prevail, adjusting the vehicular interval to it.
Under normal conditions, the minimum PASE time should not be less than 7.
seconds for pedestrians to have the opportunity to complete the crossing before
the clearance interval should appear. In streets with central islands, at least
1.20 meters wide, you only need to allow enough time for clearing of
pedestrians in one phase, so that they can cross from the sidewalk to the island. In
 in this case, if the traffic light is activated by pedestrians, a
additional detector on the island.

1.3.3 Traffic lights in school zones

Traffic lights in school zones are special devices for traffic control.
vehicles that are placed at the established crossings in educational centers with the
purpose of warning the driver of the presence of a pedestrian crossing.

When traffic lights in school zones are properly designed, located and
operated under conditions that fully guarantee their use, have the following
advantages:

Considering the initial and operating costs, traffic lights in areas

School supplies, over the years, represent an important economy.
compared to police surveillance and other similar elements.
In the event that traffic lights are installed for the control of vehicle traffic, under
adequate spacing conditions can be coordinated with traffic lights
adjacent to provide a continuous or almost continuous movement of the
vehicle traffic

A traffic light in a school zone is justified when there is an established school crossing and
when a traffic engineering study shows that the intervals in vehicle flow
they are shorter than the time required for schoolchildren to normally cross the street.

Considering the above, traffic lights in school zones will be necessary when:

The hourly volume of pedestrians crossing the main street goes from 250 during
two hours and in each of them the volume of vehicle traffic exceeds
600
There is no other traffic light within a radius of 300 meters

The traffic light lenses in school zones will be yellow, with the exception of
those that have inscriptions, which will have a dark background with the luminous inscription in
white color. Since the function of these traffic lights is to warn the driver of the
presence of a school zone, they must operate at 50 or 60 flashes per minute,
alternating between the yellow lenses and the lens with the inscription. When they meet
functioning, the vehicle drivers must enter the school zone slowly
speed and will continue their march on it with special precautions. Under no circumstances
a fixed yellow light must be used. It will be necessary for there to be a face for each
traffic circulation area that is crossed by pedestrian movement. The face of the
The traffic light must be positioned vertically and at a 90-degree angle to the street axis.
and with a downward inclination of 5 degrees. The shape of the lenses for this purpose
 traffic lights will be a combination of circular lenses with a square lens, which
It will have an inscription. The circular lenses will normally have a nominal diameter of
20 cm, while the square will be 30 cm per side.

Traffic lights in school zones are commonly supported by bracket-type supports or

suspended by cables and are not very effective for controlling pedestrian crossings. For the
therefore, they will be complemented with vehicle and pedestrian traffic lights, placed on
posts and located at pedestrian crossings, when justified or in the
nearby intersections.

The supplemental traffic lights for traffic control must be installed under
the following conditions:

In crossing areas that are not at an intersection, there will be traffic lights.
pedestrian signals activated by the users themselves. The pedestrian traffic lights
They must be installed at least at each school crossing.
At an intersection, the traffic light for vehicles must be appropriate for the traffic.
existing. The facilities of an intersection that can be integrated into systems
progressives will be able to use a non-traffic-operated control.
The places without street intersections are free from the dangers of vehicles that
they spin and can offer.
An advantage for schoolchildren; however, they may present an unexpected element.
for drivers when encountering a crosswalk between intersections
signalized; therefore, great care must be taken with the placement of the
traffic lights and the vertical and horizontal signage used in those places, to ensure that
that the drivers are aware of this special application.
During the times when there is no movement of students during the day and in the periods
On non-school days, these devices must be out of operation.

1.4 Control equipment

1.4.1 General aspects

The control unit is a set of electromechanical or electronic mechanisms,

housed in a box, that organize the traffic light color changes. Generally the
traffic light control is equipped with 5 circuits to operate satisfactorily and
they have a high degree of flexibility. These circuits are:

Phase sequence
On the variation of cycles or intervals
Of the displacement
Off
From the flash
Elements that make up the controls to regulate vehicular traffic
 Not affected by traffic.

They are commonly electromechanical relays and consist of three basic elements, which
son

Lighting devices: It consists of a series of copper contacts that

they are driven by a camshaft in which the sequence of the
turning on the intersection lights.
Devices that connect the camshaft with the timing divider
(quadrant): It is an arrangement of connections operated by a motor that rotates from
agreement with the impulses coming from the quadrant contacts for
change the traffic light signals. Every time it receives a signal,
motor operates briefly and moves the camshaft to its next position.
Synchronization device: It is made up of the synchronous motor of
quadrant, which is the one that receives the synchronization signal from the master control
from the system through the interconnection cable to its circuit.
Driven by traffic

They are generally electronic devices, being of advanced technology. Their devices
They are made up of electronic elements (diodes, triodes, triacs, transistors, etc.)
that form circuits or modules that are named according to their function. The unit
Traffic-driven action generally consists of three basic modules:

Power or charging module: It is where the transformer is located.

charge that powers all electronic circuits.
Operation module: Distributes the timing of the traffic light phases.
Control module: Receives and transmits the system signals through the
interconnection cable (computer, master control and detectors).
1.4.1.2 Elements that make up the controls to regulate pedestrian traffic
It can be of two types: electromechanical or electronic. Their characteristics are identical to
the ones described above.

1.4.1.3 Factors that determine the selection of the control type

The basic factors that should be considered for the choice of control type are: the
of the traffic, the economic factors, and the geometric characteristics of the intersection.
Transit factors: These refer to pedestrian volumes and to
vehicle volumes by access and by lane, to their modal composition and to the
time variation.
Economic factors: In the economic analysis for selecting the type of control,
the initial cost of the equipment, the installation cost, and the expenses should be considered
of operation and maintenance, as well as the economic benefits and losses to
 drivers and pedestrians. Accidents will also be taken into account. When choosing
the traffic light control team must anticipate the current operation and
future.
Physical factors of the intersection: These include the cross-section of the
accesses, the longitudinal slopes of them and the channels of the
intersection.
1.5.2 controls for fixed or predetermined traffic lights
They regulate, through traffic lights, the movements of vehicles and pedestrians
according to one or more previously determined time programs. In the
intersections where transit vehicles have a constant variation, the
The advantages of pre-synchronized control, or those not driven by traffic, are the following:
They facilitate coordination with adjacent traffic lights, with more precision than in the
case of controls triggered by traffic, especially when necessary
coordinate the traffic lights of several intersections or of the same network. This
Coordination can allow for progressive circulation and a certain degree of control.
of speeds, through a series of properly spaced traffic lights.
They do not depend on the circulation of vehicles passing by the detectors, so
that the operation of the controls is not adversely affected due to
special conditions that prevent normal circulation in front of a detector,
as in the case of stopped vehicles or construction works within the
area of influence of the detector.
They may be more acceptable than traffic-driven controls in areas
where there is intense and constant pedestrian traffic and the management of the
Manually operated traffic lights could cause confusion.
In general, the initial cost of the equipment is lower than that of the traffic-driven one.
and its preservation is easier.
The design characteristics of these controls must allow for periodic adjustment to the
variations in traffic volumes. The basic control parameters are:
Cycle: Total time required for a complete sequence of the indications of a
traffic light.
Phase: Part of the cycle corresponding to any movement of vehicles or combinations
of simultaneous movements that receive the right of way during one or more
intervals.
Interval: Any of the divisions of the cycle corresponding to the indications or
traffic light colors.
Delay: Number of seconds it takes for the green light indication to appear
a traffic light after a given moment, which is taken as a reference point
time. It is usually expressed as a percentage of the cycle. It is used for purposes of
coordination and to refer to the time necessary to clear complex intersections.

1.5.3 Controls for traffic-activated traffic lights

They are those whose operation varies according to the demands of the traffic that
vehicles and pedestrians are registered in detectors. Controls activated by traffic
they are classified into four general categories, which are:
Partially traffic-operated controls
Traffic-controlled operations
Adaptive controls to traffic density
Other coordinated controls.
At the intersections where traffic volumes fluctuate considerably in
irregular shape and in which interruptions to circulations must be minimal in the
main address, greater effectiveness can be obtained by using controls activated by the
transit. Among the advantages of this can be mentioned the following:
They can be more efficient at intersections where fluctuations of
Traffic cannot be predicted and scheduled in the manner required for the systems.
with uncontrolled controls.
They can be more efficient at intersections where one or more
Circulations are sporadic and of variable intensity.
They are generally more efficient at intersections of main streets with streets
secondary, due to the fact that they interrupt traffic on the main street
only when it is necessary to give way to vehicles and pedestrians on the street
they secondary and restrict those interruptions to the minimum essential time.
They can provide maximum efficiency at unfavorable intersections.
located within progressive systems, in which interruptions of
Traffic on the main street is inconvenient and should be kept to a minimum.
frequency and duration. They provide continuous operation without delays
unnecessary at isolated intersections, where the controls are not activated by
Traffic sometimes operates in a flashing mode for periods of
scant movement.
They have application especially at intersections where the operation of
Traffic lights are only needed for short periods during the day.
For each category, there are different types of controls with different applications, existing
in addition, other special provisions for pedestrians and circulation in a single direction over time
determined. The great variety of types and applications of powered controls
transit makes it necessary to have a complete understanding of all conditions of the
own transit and the intersection before selecting the equipment to be installed. In
In some cases, the traffic-driven team has been used for the main purpose
to control speeds at intersections and intermediate places; however, it is not very
effective for this purpose.

1.5.4 Traffic light controls for pedestrian crossings

The control of the pedestrian traffic light indications can be carried out with the
timing mechanism that is normally used in vehicle traffic lights, in
in which case the phase or indication for pedestrians will be given at a predetermined point during
 each cycle, or alternatively, the control can be activated by pedestrians through buttons or
keys to introduce the phase or indication, according to their needs. By
general rule, the installation of traffic lights for pedestrians should be avoided at points outside of
the intersections. However, when traffic lights become necessary due to
special conditions, the type of control that should be used is the one operated by the
pedestrians, coordinated with the adjacent traffic lights.

2. PLCs
2.1 Definition
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is understood as the Programmable Automaton.
electronic machine designed for real-time control in an industrial environment
sequential processes.

2.2 Basic functions

The detection: Reading the signal from the distributed sensors
manufacturing system.
The control: Develops and sends actions to the system through the
actuators and pre-actuators.
The man-machine dialogue: Maintaining a dialogue with the operators of
production obeying its directives and reporting on the status of the
process.
Programming: To introduce, develop, and change the program of
application of the automaton the programming dialogue must allow
modify the program even with the automaton controlling the machine.
Communication networks: They allow communication to be established with others.
control parts. Industrial networks allow communication and the
data exchange between real-time automata. In a few
millisecond can send telegrams and exchange tables of
shared memory.
Supervision systems: Automata also allow communication.
with computers equipped with industrial monitoring programs. In
communication is done through a simple connection via the serial port of the
computer.
Control of continuous processes: In addition to focusing on the control of
discrete event systems, the automata are equipped with functions
that allow the control of continuous processes. They have modules of
input, analog outputs and the possibility of running PID controllers that
they are programmed in the automaton.
Distributed Input-Output: Input-output modules can be
distributed throughout the installation, communicate with the central unit of the
automaton via a network cable.
 Field buses: A single communication cable can be used to
connect to the sensor and actuator bus, replacing the wiring
traditional

2.3 Fields of Application

The PLC, due to its special design characteristics, has a very wide range of applications.
extensive. The constant evolution of hardware and software constantly expands this
field to be able to meet the needs that are detected in the spectrum of your
real possibilities. Its use is primarily found in those installations in
where a maneuvering, control, signaling process, etc. is necessary, therefore, its
the application covers industrial manufacturing processes of any type to
industrial transformations, facility control, etc.

Its reduced dimensions, the extreme ease of assembly, the possibility of

store the programs for later and quick use, modification or alteration
of the same, makes its effectiveness appreciated fundamentally in processes in which it
they produce needs such as:

Reduced space.
Periodically changing production processes.
Sequential processes.
Variable process machinery.
Complex and extensive process facilities.
Centralized programming check of the parts of the process.

2.4 Structure of PLCs

2.4.1 External structure

All programmable automata have one of the following structures:

• Compact: all elements are in a single block.

• Modular: American structure: separates the E/S from the rest of the automaton. Structure
European: each module is a function (power supply, CPU, I/O, etc.).
Externally we find boxes that contain one of these structures.
which have indicators and connectors based on the model and manufacturer. For the
In the case of a modular structure, there is the possibility of fixing the different...
modules on standardized rails, so that the set is compact and resistant.

2.4.2 Internal Structure

The essential elements that every programmable automaton must have are:
• Entry section: these are input lines, which can be of a type.
digital or analog. In both cases, we have characteristic voltage ranges.
which are found in the manufacturer's specifications. To these lines
We will connect the sensors.
• Exit section: these are a series of starting lines, which can also be of
digital or analog character. We will connect the actuators to these lines.
Central Processing Unit (CPU): is responsible for processing the user program
that we will introduce, for this we have various memory areas available,
program instructions and records.
Additionally, in certain more advanced models, we can have
functions already integrated in the CPU; such as PID regulators, position control, etc.

2.5 Programming languages

2.5.1 Contact schema

It is a graphical language, derived from the relay language, which through
symbols represent contacts, solenoids. Their main advantage is that they
Basic symbols are standardized according to NEMA standards and are used by
all manufacturers.
The basic elements that shape the function are represented between two lines.
verticals that symbolize the power lines. For the function lines more
complexes like timers, shift registers, etc., are used
of block format. These are not formalized, although they retain a great
similarity among themselves for different manufacturers and are much more expressive than if
The language in list of instructions or mnemonic is used for the same purpose.

2.5.2 Sequential function chart (Grafcet)

The sequential function chart (SFC or Grafcet) is a graphical language that
provide a diagrammatic representation of the sequences of the
program. Supports selections, alternatives for parallel sequences. The
Basic elements are steps and transitions. The steps consist of pieces of
programs that are inhibited until a condition specified by the
transitions are known. As a consequence of industrial applications
They operate in the form of steps, the SFC is the logical way to specify and program.
the highest level of a PLC program.

2.5.3 List of instructions

The instruction list (IL or AWL) is a low-level language, similar to the language
assembler. With IL only one operation is allowed per line (e.g. Store a)
value in a register). This language is suitable for small applications and for
optimize parts of an application.

2.5.4 Contact Diagram

The contact diagram (ladder diagram LD) is a language that uses a set
standardized programming symbols. In the IEC standard, the symbols have
have been rationalized (their number has been reduced).

2.5.5 Function Diagram

The function diagram (function block diagram or FBD) is a graphical language.
that allows programming elements that appear as blocks to be wired
to each other in a manner analogous to the scheme of a circuit. It is suitable for many
applications that involve the flow of information or data between components of
control.

2.5.6 Task organizations

The standard also defines a new architecture for task organization
with PLCs. A task controls the execution of a program by running it.
periodically or in response to a specific event. To optimize resources
of the controller, an application can be fragmented into a number of
small specific programs. Each program is under the control of a task
that runs at the speed required by the associated I/O.

2.5.7 Function Blocks

Function blocks (FB's) are standard blocks that execute as
PID regulators. The IEC standard ensures that function blocks are
defined using a standard methodology. There are controls using
external parameters, while the internal algorithms remain hidden
using object-oriented programming.