CCTV and VMS: A Perfect Partnership In Road Safety

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Traffic managers and local authorities have a responsibility to help keep our roads safe and one of the best ways to keep accidents to a minimum is to present clear and up-to-date information to road users. Find out how our CCTV and VMS technology helps to keep roads safe.

Despite Highways England commitment to reducing the number of people killed or injured while working on our roads to as close as possible to zero by 2040, ‘over the past 10 years, workers have been injured by motorists on more than 50 occasions….’ and ‘12 road workers, including two traffic officers, have lost their lives’. 

We appreciate it’s not always an easy job to keep traffic moving safely and driver frustration to a minimum, but with our innovative CCTV and VMS technology, traffic managers are able to respond quickly to changes in congestion on the roads and display this information to road users. Keeping drivers well informed is crucial in helping to keep roads safe.

Used across a wide range of applications in different industries, CCTV can be especially effective with regards to traffic management. Road users who are aware that their actions could be caught on camera, are more likely to avoid driving too fast or recklessly, reducing the potential for accidents. Furthermore, the nature of the information collected via CCTV, especially when used in conjunction with other technologies such as automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), can effectively help to prevent and respond to accidents.

Where CCTV can be used

  • emergency roadworks
  • planned maintenance
  • temporary speed restrictions
  • school zones
  • parking management
  • event traffic management

Our VMS units enable traffic managers to effectively update information displayed to road users in real-time, to help keep drivers informed, warn of any upcoming issues and keep congestion moving smoothly.

Benefits of VMS

  • Precision control of communications helps keep traffic moving and people safe
  • High visual impact (especially if a colour matrix VMS used)
  • Can be remotely updated e.g. to show speed restrictions at peak times
  • Flexible and lightweight: they can easily be moved
  • Reliable in all weather conditions
  • Solar-powered and environmentally friendly

All our VMS and CCTV units can also be used in conjunction with our innovative WebStudio™ technology, which allows traffic managers to update their messaging instantaneously on any Wi-Fi enabled device.

Not only are our CCTV and VMS units impactful when used individually, when used together they make the perfect partnership in helping improve the safety of our roads.

See why our customers continue to trust MVIS: “No infrastructure development initiative of this scale will be without any disruption, but we’re pleased to say that so far, not only have we received relatively few calls from road users, but we’ve had some extremely positive feedback from people about the effectiveness of the system.” – Nottingham City Council

If you’d like to know more our about innovative CCTV and VMS units, or are interested in hiring them for your traffic management operation, call our friendly team on 01629 580570 or email us sales@m-vis.co.uk

* https://www.gov.uk/government/news/highways-england-highlights-dangers-faced-by-road-workers  published 4th April 2017.

NTIS DATEX II Portable Travel Time VMS: Pioneering and HE Compliant

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In 2016 we were proud to become the first ITS solution providers to have real-time journey information from the National Traffic Operations Centre (NTOC) displayed on VMS, improving the commuter’s journey experience.

We are proud to say that as well as being the first to offer this pioneering solution, we fully comply with Highways England’s (HE) stringent criteria.

Our NTIS DATEX II Portable Travel Time VMS (TTVMS) was created in partnership with HE as part of its Travel Demand Management (TDM) pilot for use on its Manchester Smart Motorway (MSM) initiative.

It’s since gone on to feature in HE’s largest scheme, the £1.5bn A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon upgrade. Displaying  journey times on 26 portable Bartco VMS, the system helps inform 85,000 drivers on average each day of their predicted journey time, assisting them to choose a different route.

During the MSM project, HE issued its supply chain with a new Major Project Instruction, MPI-54-062016, ensuring that schemes of longer than 4km must not only display TTVMS legends on portable VMS to let customers know the travel time to the end of the works, more importantly that consistency is achieved between the information displayed and Strategic Road Network (SRN) fixed VMS.

The data we use is provided by the National Traffic Information Service (NTIS), which validates all data collected from GPS probe devices, ensuring quality and accuracy by comparing the measured journey times and speeds with ANPR and MIDAS data.

Compared to fixed traffic monitoring devices such as ANPR to generate journey time information, there are many advantages to using data from in-vehicle GPS devices, allowing real time monitoring and low latency, granularity of traffic data, improved coverage and less roadside equipment.

To find out more about how MVIS can offer an excellent service across your traffic management system get in touch with our team on 01629 580 570 or email sales@m-vis.co.uk

Be Safe, Be Seen with MVIS’ HD Quattro

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MVIS is well known for its impressive portfolio of Variable Message Signs (VMS) and associated products, and we are happy to have supplied a number of clients such as Manchester’s Trafford Centre, the Metropolitan Police Service, Nottingham City Council and more, with our range of hireable traffic management products and systems.

One of the most recent VMS products to make our portfolio is the HD Quattro, the first temporary VMS which was designed to be used within work zones in order to improve safety for road users and workers and to effectively communicate information to the public.

With the sign case measuring 680 x 780, the compact HD Quattro is the smallest VMS in our collection and was developed in direct response to feedback from our customers.

The high definition dual colours of red and white mean the HD Quattro is perfectly placed to communicate traffic signs, signals and information to road users in a clear and effective manner. And weighing just 10kg, the lightweight sign case can be installed on existing street furniture or on its own battery box and post and can be used within a fixed, permanent context on urban highways.

The HD Quattro is also available in a mains-powered format and battery and solar power.

To find out more, download the product sheet here or contact us at sales@m-vis.co.uk to enquire about hiring the HD Quattro for your next traffic management project.

Be seen with MVIS

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On today’s busy roads, motorists are often asked to respond to changes in their regular routines.

Whether it’s road closures, traffic accidents or planned maintenance work, there may be a need to re-route road users, and should that happen, you need to be able to inform them of any changes quickly, safely and succinctly.

MVIS’ variable message signs (VMS) – which are used to display important messages to road users – are portable and mobile, which means that they can quickly be put into position with minimum disruption.

If it’s planned maintenance, this gives you additional time to advertise the upcoming changes and warn motorists to make alternative plans. You can schedule messages to appear at different times and dates using our innovative Web Studio™, and you don’t even have to be present to change your display – it can be done by any Wi-Fi enabled Apple device, meaning that if your message suddenly needs to change, it’s quick and easy for you to do so.

If it’s an unplanned incident, MVIS has the use of 20 depots around the UK which means that our distribution team will be able to deploy a VMS to you quickly. We also have a 24/7 support line so if you require any assistance, no matter what time of day or night it is, someone will be on-hand to help.

MVIS supplies two different sized VMS products – the smaller of the two, the VMS-A is suitable for inner city and urban roads with a speed limit of 50mph or under, and the larger VMS-C which is suitable for all roads, especially motorways and locations with a speed limit of 60mph or more. The equipment is completely weatherproof and vandal resistant, so you can be assured of a high-quality, great performing product whatever the weather and its non-glare LED screen means your message will be completely visible at any time of the day or night.

All you need to think about is what message to put on your VMS.

If you would like to find out more about our range of VMS, please email sales@m-vis.co.uk or call us on 01629 580570.

Discover MVIS’ Datex JTS

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The technical team at MVIS are an innovative bunch, and like to stay one step ahead when it comes to new traffic management initiatives. One of our most recent products, the Datex Journey Time Solution (JTS) system does just this as it enables real-time journey time information for roads from Highways England’s National Traffic Operations Centre (NTOC).

The system was the first such solution to enable real-time journey time information from the NTOC that is displayed on portable variable message signs, and is now being used by a number of traffic management companies across the UK.

Because the date is communicated directly from NTOC in DATEX II format, this means that it is highly effective and accurate when it comes to informing road users of any disruptions or road closures in real time. This then helps to ease congestion and prevents long delays as road users are able to find alternative routes rather than sit idling in traffic.

It also encourages a more environmentally friendly approach too, as shorter queue times help reduce harmful emissions caused by static traffic jams.

A hardy and robust product, the Datex Journey Time Solution was designed to withstand varied weather conditions, so no matter whether rain or shine, you are guaranteed a reliable and quality performance.

If you would like to find out more about how the Datex JTS can become a valued part of your traffic management solutions, please call us on 01629 580 570 or email sales@m-vis.co.uk

5 Benefits of the Datex Journey Time Solution

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Originally developed for use on Highways England’s Manchester Smart Motorways initiative, our Datex Journey Time Solution is the first to display real-time journey time information from Highways England’s National Traffic Operations Centre (NTOC) on portable variable message signs.

It is now being used by traffic managers across a range of projects. Here’s why:

  1. It helps ease congestion and emissions

By advising road users of potential delays it encourages them to take alternative routes, easing traffic in congested areas and reducing emissions.

  1. It’s accurate and reliable

Communicated directly from NTOC in DATEX II format, data is displayed in real time for highly accurate journey times.

  1. It’s adaptable

Because the information is displayed on portable VMS, traffic managers can respond quickly and decisively to changing road traffic scenarios. MVIS’ products are available nationwide via a network of UK-wide depots.

  1. It improves road safety

Providing road users with accurate journey time information and alerting them to delays on the road ahead, helps them to avoid incidents, make informed decisions about their onward journey and reduce frustration – all of which helps improve road safety.

  1. It comes with built-in safeguards

The Datex Journey Time Solution is designed with safeguards to ensure the journey times calculated don’t fall outside of the range allowed by current speed limits or conflict with the messages on any permanent VMS.  Automated VMS messages can be manually overridden in the event of a network incident.

Always moving forward

The Datex Journey Time Solution is part of MVIS’ range of innovative bespoke temporary ITS solutions designed to ensure the road network operates as efficiently and safely as possible.

To find out how we can help you call 01629 580 570 or email sales@m-vis.co.uk

 

Taking the environmentally friendly route

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Last week the government was forced to publish its plans for tackling air pollution and the risk it poses to public health – the noxious oxides and particulates linked to higher incidence of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and cancer is estimated to be responsible for 40,000 premature deaths every year. *

At the heart of the debate is how best to deal with the emissions – diesel or otherwise –  from the increasing numbers of vehicles on our congested roads. Pressure is already building for an expansion of the UK’s clean air zones and even a Clean Air Act to better protect public health.

In the meantime much can be done to help reduce air pollution, for example communicating to road users the steps they can take to reduce the emissions themselves.  

Traffic managers regularly plan for situations that are likely to have high volumes of slow-moving traffic (including heavy road works and large events) and, with MVIS’ Auto Detect system, can use these valuable opportunities to educate road users about how they can use the UK’s roads in a more environmentally friendly way.

Auto Detect is an innovative integrated transport system (ITS) solution that combines a series of variable message signs and master Intellicone Traffic Management Unit with a set of traffic lights. When the lights turn red, the wirelessly activated VMS displays a message to stationary drivers.

These pre-programmed messages can include facts about the levels of air pollution caused on UK roads as well as advice on how motorists can effectively lower their own emissions, such as turning off their engines when in stationary traffic queues, keeping their vehicles well maintained and removing excess cargo.

If you are interested in hiring Auto Detect for your road work project, call 01629 580 570 or email sales@m-vis.co.uk

 

* Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/may/06/observer-view-on-curbing-air-pollution-diesel-car-scrappage-health

MVIS hybrid offers the best of both worlds

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MVIS has launched the first hybrid Journey Time Solution (JTS) for use on portable VMS in the UK. Portable and easy to install, the pioneering Tom-Tom Journey Time Solution (JTS) enables traffic managers to use the journey time data provided by both the Highways England National Traffic Operations Centre (NTOC) and Tom-Tom.

NTOC data covers the UK’s strategic road network (motorways and large A roads) while Tom-Tom provides coverage for 99% of all UK roads. Access to both, using the same portable VMS, means traffic managers now have total flexibility in the journey time information they can display at roadworks.

For example, VMS deployed at motorway roadworks will use the NTOC information to display journey times between junctions but if information about a diversion away from the motorway is required, the VMS can be switched to Tom-Tom to access journey time information for roads not covered by the NTOC.

Keeping road users better informed and being able to identify incidents in real-time helps ease congestion and improve safety around roadworks. MVIS’ innovative hybrid system can also combine the estimated journey times from both systems for the most accurate journey time estimates and is especially well suited for overnight diversions for motorway road works.

The Tom-Tom JTS from MVIS is the latest addition to MVIS comprehensive range of innovative, fully autonomous Intelligent Transport System (ITS) solutions designed to help traffic managers operate temporary traffic scenarios safely, efficiently and cost effectively.

Find out more at www.m-vis.co.uk or email us at sales@m-vis.co.uk.

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Department for Transport announces 1.2bn funding

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It was announced recently that there will be over £1.2bn of funding for English local authority roads in 2017/18. Including individual councils’ share of the pothole fund, £185m of new funding was announced in the Autumn Statement and the Local Highways Maintenance Funding Needs Element to help improve the UK’s road network.

The £1.2bn for the 2017 to 2018 financial year for local highway authorities outside London, consists of:

  • £210m from the £1.3bn National Productivity Investment Fund (NPIF) announced in the Autumn Statement, with £185m to improve local highways and public transport networks and £25m to help tackle some of the most dangerous council A roads
  • £801m Local Highways Maintenance Funding Needs Element
  • £70m to be shared across local highway authorities from the Pothole Action Fund
  • £75m from the Highways Maintenance Challenge Fund, with local highway authorities invited to compete for funding to help repair and maintain local highway infrastructure, such as bridges, lighting and rural roads
  • £75m from the Highways Maintenance Incentive Element, which invites councils to complete a self-assessment questionnaire “in order to reward those who demonstrate they truly understand the value of their asset”.

The Pothole Action Fund allocated totals £250 million which is estimated to be enough to repair on average over 4.7 million potholes, or stop them forming in the first place.

During this time, it is estimated that the ongoing road maintenance and improvements will cause lengthy queues and obstruction on the roads. MVIS offers a number of traffic management solutions which can be hired to allow your road work project to run smoothly, encourage safer and more environmentally friendly driving habits, and help prevent complaints from motorists by keeping them well informed of their approximate travel times.

No matter what or where your traffic management project is, MVIS provides innovative temporary Intelligent Transport System Solutions which can help your road work project run smoothly, on time and to a budget. This includes CCTV, HD Data Collection Radar, ANPR, VMS and Journey Time Solutions which are mounted on solar powered platforms and can be deployed as multiple units on a single platform or individually as required.

At MVIS we work closely with our customers and partners and we’re dedicated to producing the best product to match your needs. Our five colour matrix VMS displays are ideal for traffic management and accident information, and help keep motorists well informed.

Available for hire throughout the UK, MVIS ensures temporary VMS are quickly deployed to provide urgent traffic management solutions. If your road work project requires help to reduce traffic levels to increase motorist’s satisfaction levels and awareness, contact the MVIS team who will be happy to offer you full support and flexibility to help you inform road users.

If you would like to talk to us regarding hiring any of our traffic management solutions, please get in touch by calling 01629 580 570 or email us at sales@m-vis.co.uk.

 

 

New partnership with Highways England

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Mobile Visual Information Systems Ltd (MVIS) developed a temporary intelligent transport system (ITS) solution which receives DATEX II real time journey time data from Highways England’s National Traffic Operations Centre (NTOC), collected from in-vehicle sensors.

The data is used to calculate journey times from the locations of MVIS’ 11 portable Bartco UK VMS-C variable message signs (VMS) along the MSM roadworks to the end of the affected stretch of motorway. The times are uploaded onto the desired portable VMS every five minutes.

Configurable safeguards ensure that journey times computed do not fall outside the range made feasible by current speed limits and that they do not conflict with messages on permanent VMS.  The automated VMS messages may be manually overridden in the event of a network incident.

Said MVIS’ technical manager, Matt Felce: 

“MVIS is an innovative firm, and so was pleased to have the opportunity to work in partnership with Highways England to develop the first solution enabling real-time journey time information from NTOC to be displayed on portable VMS.”

MVIS works in partnership with other leading providers to create bespoke temporary ITS solutions for traffic management organisations to help the road network to operate efficiently and safely.

Its solar powered solutions incorporate monitoring and visual information equipment:  VMS, ANPR and CCTV cameras, radar and Intellicone contactless sensor technology.  MVIS’ VMS signs are manufactured in the UK by Bartco UK.

MVIS’ products are available nationwide via a network of over 20 depots.

How to lower pollution with MVIS’s Auto Detect

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It was reported recently that London reached its annual limit for air pollution just five days into the new year.

And with the RAC Foundation estimating more than 43 million drivers on the roads by 2034, it can only mean bigger traffic jams, longer journey times and even more air pollution.

So how can we prevent this?

Motorists themselves can adopt certain habits when driving to help reduce emissions, such as keeping the vehicle in tip-top shape, removing excess cargo and avoiding unnecessary idling. If you are going to be stopped for more than 10 seconds, it’s much more environment tally friendly to stop and restart your engine than to keep the vehicle running.

But what can we do to help reduce emissions in locations which we know will have a high volume of slow-moving traffic? Circumstances such as heavy road works, large sporting events or concerts can have a large amount of stop-start traffic, and so are in need of an effective solution to communicate with motorists to educate them on more environmentally friendly driving practices – the Auto Detect.

The Auto Detect is an innovative integrated solution available to hire from MVIS and combines variable message signs (VMS) with contactless sensor technology which can help make drivers more aware of their carbon footprint and drive more responsibly, therefore becoming more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

The system pairs a series of VMS units with a master Intellicone Traffic Management Unit with a set of traffic lights. When the lights turn red, the VMS is wirelessly activated and instantly displays messages – pre-programmed by the user using our innovative Web Studio™ – to communicate with the stationary motorists. These messages can include facts about the levels of air pollution caused on UK roads as well as advice on how motorists can effectively lower their own emissions, such as turning off their engines when in stationary traffic queues.

If you would like to contact us regarding your road work project, please call 01629 580 570 or email sales@m-vis.co.uk

Mobile Visual Information Systems

01629 580 570

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