Ben Kettell, Author at MVIS Ltd

MVIS to exhibit at UK’s first Route to Smarter Cities event

Posted on 22nd January 2014 at 10:00 am.

MVIS is delighted to be exhibiting the very first Route to Smarter Cities event on 20th February at the Enterprise Centre in Derby.

The event, which is the first of its kind to launch in the UK, will look at analyzing what the smart cities approach in the UK means in terms of road infrastructure and for the traffic, highways and transport departments within local authorities.

The one-day conference will take a look at what local authorities are already doing in their approach to smart cities and how traffic modelling, transport planning, highways and ITS fits into that.

As the UK’s leading provider of temporary Intelligent Transport Systems, MVIS is keen to discuss the future of the UK’s transport system and how we can better utilise fast, flexible, cost-effective temporary solutions for the traffic sector as part of the growing demand for ITS solutions.

For more information on the event, visit the website, or if you’d like to discuss how our range of ITS solutions can benefit you and your project please feel free to contact us.

VMS: An effective advertising solution

Posted on 23rd December 2013 at 2:52 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

As a leading supplier of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, MVIS has within its portfolio a range of variable message signs (VMS). These VMS, as well as being effective for traffic management use, also provide an innovative and cost-effective solution for advertising and brand reinforcement.

Our range of VMS feature a five colour matrix which gives the user the option of displaying messages in red, green, blue and white as well as in the standard amber. This feature is coupled with the VMS’ ability to display Chapter 8/ MS4 style pictograms in addition to text. These features allow the VMS to be used to display company logos – a highly visible method of brand reinforcement and advertising. MVIS has previously supplied a VMS solution to a Renault garage, who used it to display their logo and advertise their presence.

VMS can be remotely updated, either by SMS or using an internet connection. This high level of accessibility allows the user to display information and then, if needed, change the message quickly and easily. As a result, VMS are an ideal way to advertise ticket sales or offers at events such as festivals, sporting fixtures and country shows. The conspicuous five colour display is highly visible, even in crowd situations, and the remote access facility means details of tickets or offers can be adjusted rapidly.

Recently two VMS-C solutions, provided by MVIS, were used as part of ticket sales efforts taking place for the England international football friendlies against Chile and Germany at Wembley. VMS solutions, supplied by MVIS, have also been used at the Bakewell Show to help advertise the park and ride services.

To ensure that MVIS’ VMS provide as flexible a service as possible, some models can also be fitted onto our Solar 2012 Multi-Use Trailer Platform. This allows VMS to be moved from location to location, so that if your requirements alter the VMS will still be an effective advertising solution.

All our VMS are available for rapid deployment, as they are stored at 14 nationwide depots.

To discuss VMS or any of MVIS’ intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, contact us on 01629 580 570.

Intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions providing event support

Posted on 18th December 2013 at 9:12 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

As a leading provider of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, which are an innovative and cost effective event management tool, MVIS will be attending the Event Buyers Live event in January 2014.

During the event, on 30th & 31st January 2014 in Marlow, MVIS will be showcasing our range of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions which can be used to ensure event traffic flows smoothly, events are adequately lighted and visitors have up to date information whilst also saving on manpower costs.

MVIS supplies VMS solutions which can relay traffic news and warnings to motorists – vital for ensuring a constant and healthy flow of traffic around an event site. They can be updated remotely and feature a five colour matrix which allows the user to display information in red, white, green and blue as well as the standard amber. In addition to the five colour functionality, the VMS are also able to display Chapter 8/ MS4 style pictograms in addition to text. This feature, in MVIS’ experience, facilitates a rapid response from drivers – even foreign motorists who may well be unable to understand text.

MVIS has previously supplied Transport for London with what is believed to be the largest single deployment of solar powered variable message signs (VMS) in the world for use during the London 2012 Olympics. Almost 200 units were installed and used to enable athletes and officials to travel safely and efficiently between the venues and their accommodation.

The VMS’ multi-coloured display and the facility to update the signs remotely also makes them an effective event advertising tool. They can be used to promote services which are available at an event or to give the latest ticketing information. Recently, MVIS supplied two VMS-C to Wembley Stadium where they were used to give ticket information to fans at two England football internationals.

Other intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions which can be used to ensure effective event management include the CCTV and ANPR cameras MVIS provide. Both of these camera units can be used to monitor traffic flow and knowing how traffic is building up on a site allows the user to direct traffic quickly and accurately onto routes which will prevent standing traffic.

Adequate lighting is a vital element of ensuring an event is safe and secure. MIVS supplies Solaris 6K LED lighting towers which replace the need for halogen or fluorescent sources and emit large expanses of white, shadow free light. They are capable of running for extended use times and provide great savings on CO2 emissions.

All of the intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provided by MVIS can fitted on a Solar 2012 Multi-Use Trailer Platform, which makes the products portable and available for use wherever they are required, at short notice.

To discuss intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions for event management purposes with MVIS, contact us on 01629 580 570.

Mobile VMS: An effective intelligent transport system (ITS) solution

Posted on 10th December 2013 at 4:31 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

We were delighted to see the coverage that Traffic Technology International (TTI) has given in their latest edition to MVIS‘ championing of mobile VMS as an effective temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solution.

In the article, which reports that there are now “battalions” of mobile VMS being used in the UK for a variety of applications, MVIS managing director Pat Musgrave discusses the benefits of mobile VMS. The units he tells TTI are, “ideal for use in short-term projects, especially those requiring fast installation (for instance due to highway accidents), and also those that require signs to be repositioned throughout their duration (such as evolving roadworks).”

MVIS provides the VMS-C, which is a mobile VMS unit that is versatile, easy to set up and suitable for use in all conditions. Our VMS-C features a five colour matrix which offers the user the chance to display information in red, green, blue and white as well as in the standard amber. Our VMS are all capable of displaying Chapter 8/ MS4 style pictograms, as well as text. This makes them an excellent temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solution as they facilitate a rapid response from all drivers – even foreign motorists who may not be able to understand text.

The TTI article also recounts the zero shunt rate recorded by A-One+ who used mobile VMS, from MVIS, whilst recently undertaking a refurbishment of the A1 western bypass between Newcastle and Gateshead. Ten VMS-C units were installed for the duration of the project and the display was remotely switched between speed roundels and three color pictograms in the event of standing traffic.

A-One+ attributes the recording of no standing traffic incidents directly to the mobile VMS provided by MVIS, with their manager of operations, Ian Lee telling TTI, “Not only did MVIS’ VMS facilitate a rapid message change in response to the quickly changing traffic situation, but the high visibility of the three colour pictograms engendered an instant motorist reaction, promoting the safety of road workers, police and motorists alike”.

As a leading provider of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, MVIS is always looking to bring new products to the market which can provide valuable assistance with traffic management. One such intelligent transport system (ITS) solution is the Portable Solar Powered Journey Time Solution (SPJTS) , which takes the Skyhawk Integrated ANPR camera, a VMS-A display and the Solar 2012 Multi Use Platform and combines them to make a highly impressive traffic management aid. Using its several features, highway managers are able to monitor traffic and then warn users of potentials delays or, if necessary, suggest an alternative route.

To discuss mobile VMS or any other products with intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provider MVIS, contact us on 01629 580 570.

Intelligent transport system (ITS): national infrastructure potential

Posted on 4th December 2013 at 5:00 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

As a leading supplier of temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, MVIS was interested to see that the government has announced plans to raise £25 billion from private insurance companies for use as part of the national infrastructure programme. The funds will be used to build new and improve existing transport, energy, flood, waste and water schemes over the next 10 years.

Included in the programme are 36 major transport projects. A selection of these will be major road network improvement schemes that in the long-term will lead to a more efficient and safer road network. During the construction phase, however, the major effects are likely to be an increase in roadworks, disrupted private journeys and increased journey times for commercial and delivery vehicles.

One of the most effective ways to minimise the potential issues arising from infrastructure development, is the use of temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions which can provide road users with effective, real -time information throughout their journey.

As a market leader in temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, MVIS has a range of ITS products which are dynamic and effective aids for highway managers during periods of road construction. One of MVIS’ most versatile ITS solutions is the Portable Solar Powered Journey Time Solution (SPJTS) , which takes a number of intelligent transport system (ITS) products and combines them to make a highly impressive traffic management aid. Using its several features, highway managers are able to monitor traffic and then warn users of potentials delays or, if necessary, suggest an alternative route – ensuring disruption is kept to a minimum.

The SPJTS features the Skyhawk Integrated ANPR camera, a VMS-A display and the Solar 2012 Multi Use Platform.

To discuss temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions with leading supplier MVIS, contact us on 01629 580 570.

VMS: intelligent transport system (ITS) solution for cycling crisis?

Posted on 29th November 2013 at 11:33 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

A proliferation of horrific media reports of cyclist deaths in UK cities is ensuring that the issue of cyclist safety is one of the highest profile issues currently facing the country’s transport bosses.

Keen to help highways managers promote the safety of cyclists and indeed all road users, intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provider Mobile Visual Information Systems (MVIS), is championing the potential of temporary variable message signs (VMS).

Temporary VMS can be rapidly deployed to highlight the location of accident hot-spots, warning cyclists and motorists of the need to navigate these areas with extra vigilance. Safety messages can be intermittently featured on temporary VMS, whatever their position and prime function, ensuring that road users everywhere are reminded to cycle and drive with caution. As the country’s network of cycling lanes expands, the temporary signs can also be used to help safely manage traffic around the subsequent roadworks.

MVIS believes that the VMS signs of greatest safety potential are five colour matrix signs, which feature red, green, blue and white in addition to standard amber, as the resulting displays are of particularly high impact and so facilitate rapid road user response.

The intelligent transport system (ITS) company is also an advocate of Chapter 8/MS4 style pictograms, as its experience suggests that conspicuous coloured images are interpreted with particular speed, including foreign road users who are not always able to understand text.

Said the operations director of MVIS, Steve Young, whose intelligent transport system (ITS) company rapidly deploys its five colour matrix signs via a nationwide network of 14 depots: “Cycling is an increasingly popular mode of transport so the issue of cyclist safety as well as that of motorists will not go away.

“As MPs and transport bosses across the country consider ways to fund and develop a safer road network, MVIS is promoting to the sector the immediate, flexible and cost-effective potential of the best temporary VMS.

“Not only can they be quickly deployed, but their high impact visuals are spotted by cyclists and motorists and responded to with speed.

“Yes it’s going to take a long time and a lot of money, not to mention a great deal of political will and high-level discussion, before the UK’s road network is as safe as those of some of its European counterparts, but temporary VMS can be used to great effect now to help improve safety in the short term.”

MVIS recently installed 10 VMS-Cs during A-One+’s northbound refurbishment of the A1 western bypass between Newcastle and Gateshead. Featuring a display that was remotely switched from speed roundels to three colour pictograms in the event of standing traffic, A-one+ credits the VMS with ensuring zero standing-traffic related incidents during their six week installation. When the company undertook an identical project on the southbound carriageway in 2009, using fixed frame signs, there were several such incidents.

MVIS’ product portfolio includes a wide range of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions in addition to VMS, including ANPR, CCTV and radar and clients include Transport for London, Balfour Beatty, the Metropolitan Police and numerous events organisations.

VMS from intelligent transport system provider (ITS) MVIS

Posted on 21st November 2013 at 1:06 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

As a market leading supplier of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, MVIS has a range of products which are effective for traffic management, events management and advertising purposes. This range includes variable message signs (VMS) which provide high-impact coloured displays.

VMS from MVIS feature a five colour matrix and give the user the choice of using red, green, blue and white in addition to the standard amber. This makes them a highly conspicuous piece of signage which stands out and attracts attention, even in crowd situations.

The versatility of the VMS makes them a high valuable asset in a variety of situations, including for traffic management purposes. As the signs can present Chapter 8/ MS4 style pictograms as well as text, they become a fantastic intelligent transport system (ITS) solution. MVIS has seen that often coloured images, such as the pictograms, are very quickly interpreted by motorists and the information displayed is rapidly acted upon – even by foreign drivers who are not always able to understand text. MVIS recently supplied VMS to A-One+ for using during their refurbishment of the A1 and they recorded a zero shunt rate during the works, compared with the several incidents that took place when they used static signs for a similar project.

The ability of the VMS to display pictograms alongside text also makes them an excellent events management tool. With the five colour matrix display making the signs conspicuous and visible, the VMS are an effective way to provide information to large crowds of people. Using the displays, events organisers can direct crowds effectively around event sites – and the changeable display means information can be updated regularly. Recently, MVIS’ VMS were used by Wembley Stadium to control crowds for the England football internationals against Germany and Chile.

VMS are also an adept tool for advertising purposes. As they can be remotely updated, by SMS or via the internet, they reduce the need for a full team being dedicated to their use as as an advertising tool. This reduction in man power makes them a more cost-effective advertising solution than other methods. For advertising, the ability of the VMS to display the Chapter 8/ MS4 style pictograms is crucial as the high impact display facilitates high customer response and the pictograms will draw in foreign customers unable to read text advertising. VMS have previously been supplied to the Bakewell Show who used them to great advertising effect, boosting significantly the amount of visitors who used the onsite park and ride.

To discuss VMS or any other intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions with market leading supplier MVIS, contact us on 01629 580 570.

MVIS’ VMS to be used for England crowd control and ticket sales

Posted on 13th November 2013 at 12:17 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

As a market leading distributor of Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions, MVIS is delighted by the news that variable message signs (VMS), provided by MVIS, are to be used during the upcoming England football international friendlies at Wembley Stadium.

MVIS is supplying two VMS-C solutions for use as part of crowd control and ticket sales efforts taking place for the England versus Chile fixture on Friday 15th November and the England versus Germany fixture on Tuesday 19th November.

The VMS-C that MVIS supply are stationed at depots nationwide so that they can be rapidly deployed to wherever they are required. VMS-C is an intelligent transport system (ITS) solution which is designed to be versatile, easy to setup and operate and is reliable under all conditions.

The messages can be controlled by SMS and the VMS-C is ideal for giving crowds information as it offers a variety of onscreen colour options. The choice of using red, green, blue and white as well as the standard amber, ensures that the VMS-C is visible and conspicious even in large crowds – making it a perfect intelligent transport system (ITS) solution for events such as the one at Wembley.

The VMS-C is also to be used in a ticket sales advertising role before the two England internationals at Wembley. The portable nature of this intelligent transport system (ITS) solution, means that it can be located in prime spots where crowds will be gathered – maximising the chance of extra ticket sales. With an array of colours, the VMS-C always attracts attention and can be used to display ticket sales information in a simple, clean manner and as the display is changeable, information can be altered as the ticket sales situation develops.

As a market leader in intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, MVIS is well placed to provide crowd control, ticket sales and other event management products – including CCTV and ANPR. Contact MVIS on 01629 580 570.

Zero “shunt rate” for A-one+ thanks to MVIS’ VMS

Posted on 6th November 2013 at 11:16 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

As a leading temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provider, MVIS was delighted by the recent news that thanks to the use of a variable message sign (VMS) system, provided by MVIS, during the recent A1 refurbishment there was zero standing traffic related incidents.

The northbound refurbishment on the A1 between Newcastle and Gateshead was carried out by A-one+ and the company firmly believes that the result of no standing traffic related incidents was achieved thanks to the VMS package provided by intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provider MVIS.

From July through to August, 10 VMS-C variable message signs were operational. The VMS-C is an innovative intelligent transport system (ITS) solution that features a changeable display, like all MVIS’ VMS they are now available through a nationwide network of depots – meaning they can be rapidly deployed to where they are required. In this instance the signs switched between showing speed roundels and three colour Chapter 8/MS4 style pictograms in the event of standing traffic caused by lane closures. The highly conspicuous display on the MVIS supplied VMS was easily spotted by motorists who reacted accordingly.

A-One+ had high praise for the VMS and the highly visible pictograms they display, especially as when they carried out an identical project on the southbound carriage in 2009, using fixed frame signs, there were several standing traffic related incidents. These were avoided thanks to the visibility of the intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions provided by MVIS.

Speaking about the VMS supplied by MVIS, A-one+ incident manager of operations, Ian Lee said:

“Not only did MVIS’ VMS facilitate a rapid message change in response to the quickly changing traffic situation, but the high visibility of the three colour pictograms engendered an instant motorist reaction, promoting the safety of road workers, police and motorists alike.

“Without a doubt, the zero shunt rate during this year’s refurbishment works was the result of the deployment of MVIS’ VMS signs, with their market-leading software technology.”

MVIS managing director, Pat Musgrave added: “MVIS has long-championed the health and safety benefits of its VMS, and is pleased to have been able to demonstrate these to the advantage of the A-one+ project.”

MVIS has a wide range of intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions which includes ANPR, CCTV and radar. To discuss ITS Solutions, you can contact MVIS on 01629 580 570.

Intelligent Transport System (ITS) given highwaysindustry.com coverage

Posted on 25th October 2013 at 8:24 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

We were delighted to see the coverage given by highwaysindustry.com to MVIS‘ Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions recently. The article focuses on the numerous sporting events MVIS has successfully supplied Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions to since forming in 2012, when P&D Specialist Services and Colour Mobile VMS merged following a joint venture to deliver a contract for London 2012.

In the article it says MVIS has gone onto become a market leader for providing Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions and that since MVIS was formed, the company has delivered solutions for several high profile sporting events.

First of all, it covers what is believed to be the biggest single deliverance of solar powered variable message signs in the world, to the Olympic Route Network last year. Almost 200 units were delivered and were used for traffic management and to keep London running smoothly.

Other sporting event success for MVIS is also covered in the article, including our supply of trailer mounted solar powered Solar 2012 CCTV Cameras to Royal Ascot. This Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solution was used by the Royal Ascot traffic management team to monitor traffic approaching the event and then put into place reroutes – avoiding congestion, minimising tail backs and ensuring customer satisfaction.

In the article, MVIS’ managing director, Pat Musgrave said: “We were delighted to have played a part in the successful operation of the traffic management plan of such a high profile event. The Royal Ascot team understood that a good event traffic management system requires more than simply good signage, and that the incorporation of a range of ITS products, such as CCTV, is essential.”

The trailer mounted solar powered Solar 2012 CCTV camera is a versatile and valuable piece of traffic management equipment. The mast mounted CCTV system delivers excellent frame rates even in areas of poor signal. The rugged design means it is able to withstand rough conditions, or vandalism attempts, and as a valuable part of our Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions is ideally suited to traffic management, road safety and traffic enforcement roles.

MVIS has also recently provided Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions for August’s Prudential RideLondon. The cycling festival was organised to celebrate the Olympic cycling legacy and was attended by 70,000 riders. The event’s showpiece was the London-Surrey 100, a 100 mile race on closed roads. MVIS supplied VMS signs which were used to display travel advice and advanced road closure notice to members of the public.

MVIS’ Pat Musgrave said: “We were delighted to have once again worked in partnership with TfL to develop a solution to help the capital’s road network operate efficiently throughout a major sporting event.”

To find out more about Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions and their traffic management capabilities, visit the MVIS website or contact us on 01629 580 570.

Musgrave takes the helm of MVIS

Posted on 17th October 2013 at 2:30 pm.

Written by Ben Kettell

Pat Musgrave formally took the helm as Managing Director of MVIS from the 1st October after Tony Price stepped down to embark on the next stage of his career.

Pat Musgrave says, “As a Director and shareholder of MVIS since its inception, I’m proud to take on the position as MD to continue its growth. Many will know me as MD of P&D Specialist Services with over 25 year’s in the industry. I have a fantastic management team behind me, who know our business and our customers inside and out. Let me introduce you to the team…

Dave Musgrave, Operations Director for P&D Specialist Services and a Director and shareholder of MVIS will continue to give operational support to MVIS.

Steve Young, Operations Director and shareholder of MVIS will continue to support our valued customers in London and the South.

I’m delighted to announce that Anne Ashman, formally our Office and Finance Manager has been promoted to General Manager. Based out of our head office in Matlock she is our main point of contact for customers to discuss invoices, hire, service and operations.

Graeme Lee, our Sales Manager will continue to be our main point of contact for sales enquiries and travels the length and breadth of the UK.

Matt Felce, our Technical Manager, completes the MVIS management team. Matt has further developed our portable solar powered ANPR, CCTV and Radar 2012 systems and is always on hand for technical support for our customers.

P&D Specialist Services and MVIS will continue to be be run as separate entities but under the P&D (Holdings Company) umbrella. This means we can offer even better service for all our customers, sharing best practice and resources when appropriate.

This is an exciting time for the development of both companies and I would like to thank all of our customers and colleagues in the industry for the kind messages of support since taking over as Managing Director of MVIS. We look forward to continued success with you all.”

Regards

Pat Musgrave
Managing Director
P&D Specialist Services Ltd and MVIS Ltd

Intelligent Transport System (ITS) customer wins award

Posted on 16th October 2013 at 9:02 am.

Written by Ben Kettell

MVIS, the market leader in temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, was delighted to see that the Olympic Route Network team won the Road Marking Project of the Year award at the Highways Magazine Excellence Awards, earlier this week.

The Olympic Route Network team was made up of WJ Linkline Group, Euromark, Ringway Jacobs, EM Highway Services Ltd, FM Conway & Transport for London. Having supplied Transport for London with almost 200 solar powered variable message signs (VMS) for the Olympic Route Network, one of many intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions we offer, we were delighted to see all the group’s efforts recognised with the route marking award.

Their work on the road markings, and also on other areas of traffic management, helped to deliver a safe, enjoyable Olympics for all. We are thrilled to have aided their excellent Olympic project by providing intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions to work alongside their road marking work. We look forward to working with Transport for London in the future on more traffic management solutions.

As a market leading supplier of temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solutions, MVIS is always keen to work with new traffic management partners to develop new temporary solutions for road networks across the UK.