Project Synopsis:
The provision of a Traffic Management System to control and monitor strategic routes across North Wales.
Project Overview:
The North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent (NMWTRA) required a Traffic Management System (TMS) to monitor and control traffic across their networks. The new system provides unified control of all integrated sub-systems via a common user interface, ensuring ease of operation for system users.
The solution Integrated control and monitoring of the following sub-systems; Variable Message Sign Systems (VMSS); Environmental Control Systems (ECS); Automated Incident Detection (AID) Systems from Conwy, Penmaenbach and Pen-y-Clip tunnels; the Regional Traffic Control System (RTCS); Britannia Bridge VMSS; and the Emergency Telephone System. This array of systems is unified, with control and monitoring presented through a ICONICS SCADA interface.
PDS developed the TMS with the client’s wider road management strategy in mind. A Master Plan tool enables sub-systems to be controlled in conjunction with the clients operating procedures. Meanwhile, a configurable Decision Support module further reinforces operational consistency by using alarms as logical inputs to user defined rules. When a rule is broken, operators are notified by pop-ups that recommend appropriate Master Plans. If operator interaction is not received, Decision Support can automatically implement a Master Plan, reducing the potential for operator error in high stress situations.
Live video and incident alarms, and monitoring for the Emergency Telephone System, were also integrated into the new management system providing operators with a map-based interface, hastening the identification and coordination of incidents.
Minimally invasive hardware modifications and additions allowed for this increase in functionality. The NMWTMS PLCs were improved to meet the new system’s demands, while the operators’ ability to access the system was enhanced via interfaces installed into existing cabinets. These additions allowed the existing hardware to meet the new demands placed on them, without the expenses associated with a full redevelopment.
The new Traffic management system provides an overarching SCADA framework, integrating the multiple monitoring systems that work beneath it to manage the complex road network.
