TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS | SIGNALS - INTEGRATED WORK STATION

The Integrated Work Station is an advanced traffic management system (ATMS) that provides San Jose a centralized, integrated platform for signal system control, information management, and graphical data display. The workstations allow the operator to control many of Signal Central's key components from a single interface. These components include CCTV, changeable message signs (CMS), traffic signal database, and dynamic graphical display of intersection-specific traffic data. While most of these components are utilized extensively in managing downtown traffic, they are also used to monitor and evaluate traffic systems throughout the City. Below is a summary of the various elements:

CCTV Cameras
Used extensively as part of downtown's Motorist Information System, the 18 CCTV cameras provide Signal Central operators a bird's eye view of the current traffic conditions in and around downtown. As visual information, such as congestion, is interpreted from the field, commands are sent to Changeable Message Signs and the Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) to redirect traffic and alleviate gridlock. The system is used for many of the arena and downtown special events.

Changeable Message Signs (CMS)
Changeable Message Signs (CMS) are used to communicate vital information such as preferred routes and available parking to the downtown event motorists. As traffic conditions change, the messages are updated. For unique conditions, staff can download custom messages, such as the Department's Highway Advisory Radio frequency so that motorists can obtain more detailed information.

Signal System Computer
The signal system computer is the City's central signal timing database and real-time traffic monitoring system, allowing operators to monitor San Jose's signals While the system stores timing data for more than 800 traffic signals located within the City's boundary, it can receive vital real-time information, such as traffic volume, occupancy, speed, and delay, via a communications network made up of copper, fiber optics, microwave and spread spectrum. Timing plans can be easily downloaded to the field, resulting in an instantaneous change of traffic operation to best serve the current traffic conditions.

Dynamic Graphical Display
Data received from the field via the signal system computer is fed into a dynamic graphical display system that translates the data into color-coded, real-time, representation of the actual traffic condition. This graphical interface can also display operational data such as signal timing sequence, signal coordination parameters, and cycle splits. Equipment malfunctions in the field can be detected through the graphical interface, thus making maintenance and trouble shooting of traffic signal and communications equipment more speedy and efficient.