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Exploring the Impact of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons in Rural and Small Communities

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In a world increasingly concerned with road safety, Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) have gained attention as a pivotal technology designed to protect pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users in uncontrolled marked crosswalks. Much of the existing research on RRFBs has been limited to urban environments, leaving a noticeable gap in our understanding of their effectiveness in rural and smaller communities. 

A recent comprehensive study by the University of Vermont in association with the Vermont Agency of Transportation, “Effectiveness of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) in Small and Rural Communities,” addresses this gap. The study not only affirms the effectiveness of RRFBs in rural settings but also provides key insights for best installation practices. These findings are integral to Availed Technologies’ approach to the design and manufacturing of RRFBs, further reinforcing why Availed is an industry leader.

A Deep Dive into the Study’s Findings

The University of Vermont’s research employed a rigorous methodological approach that included a controlled before-and-after study design and in-depth video analysis. The outcomes were promising: RRFBs led to an improvement in driver compliance and overall road safety in rural Vermont. There were noticeable improvements in driver yielding behavior and reductions in pedestrians crossing outside of designated crosswalks. Pedestrian wait times at crossings also decreased.

Additionally, the study points out that installations in Montpelier, which used different LED lights and are not considered RRFBs, showed less effectiveness compared to other locations. This only strengthens the case for RRFBs as an optimal choice for pedestrian safety solutions.

Furthermore, the study discovered that the effectiveness of RRFBs was consistent, not just in central locations but also in transitional zones between rural and urban areas. This all-encompassing effectiveness is crucial because it shows that RRFBs are not just a ‘one-size-fits-all’ urban solution but a versatile tool for smaller communities and lower pedestrian volume locations.

Design Features and Considerations

This study on RRFBs underscored the importance of thoughtful design features to enhance their effectiveness, especially in adherence to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Features like tactile arrows and audio cues can help visually impaired individuals navigate crossings safely. Additionally, the study highlighted the need for flexible power options like solar, which is particularly useful in rural areas where electrical grid access may be limited.

The angle and intensity of the flashing lights were also identified as critical design factors. Lights need to be bright enough to attract drivers’ attention from a distance, but not so intense as to impair vision. This balance is especially crucial in varying weather conditions often encountered in rural settings. Moreover, RRFBs should be durable enough to withstand the gamut of environmental conditions, ensuring that maintenance needs are minimized.

Availed Technologies’ focus on advanced design features—including ADA-compliant push buttons, high capacity solar-powered systems, and robust field adjustable RRFB lightbars —makes us an industry leader. These features enable the RRFBs to function optimally in all conditions, ensuring the highest level of road safety for rural communities.

Factors Influencing RRFB Effectiveness

While the study provided an overwhelmingly positive outlook on the role of RRFBs in rural safety, it also illuminated how different factors could affect their effectiveness. These factors include the time of day, the day of the week, and even the type of road users, such as cyclists and runners. Such granular data is invaluable for planners and policymakers who aim to deploy RRFBs most effectively, further underscoring the vital role played by high-quality RRFBs like those manufactured by Availed Technologies.

This is critical because these factors are directly linked to road safety. In particular, the study found that the installation of RRFBs led to improvements in driver compliance ranging from 12% to 43%, showcasing the tangible benefits of these devices. Pedestrian wait times also improved, with reductions ranging from 0.8 to 2.6 seconds at two of the RRFB locations studied.

The Global Relevance of RRFBs

Although the study is rooted in the specific context of Vermont, its findings have broader implications. Rural and small communities across the nation and indeed, around the world, share similar characteristics. The issue of road safety is universal, and the research strongly indicates that RRFBs, when implemented correctly, can be an effective solution for a range of settings.

Making Roads Safer with Availed Technologies’ RRFBs

As the study results indicate, not all RRFBs are created equal. Availed Technologies distinguishes itself by offering RRFBs that not only meet but exceed compliance and safety standards. With our products, communities—be they large or small, urban or rural—can achieve remarkable improvements in pedestrian safety and driver compliance.

Availed’s RRFBs are not just built to meet the basic standards; they exceed them. Our attention to detail ensures maximum visibility and durability, two key factors that are even more crucial in rural settings where regular maintenance may be less frequent. In addition, Availed’s RRFBs are adaptable and can be installed in a variety of roadway conditions, a feature highlighted as beneficial in the study.

As we strive for safer roads for all, there’s no better partner than Availed Technologies to provide RRFB solutions. Grounded in scientific research and committed to quality and safety, Availed’s RRFBs are the best pedestrian safety solution for communities large and small. Your community deserves the best, and the best is Availed Technologies’ AV-400 RRFB.

 

Contact Us to Learn More!

Crosswalk with two Availed RRFB poles on a sunny day. A castle-like house stands majestically in the background.

Specifying RRFBs – The Essentials

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This article provides the essential Performance Requirements to include when specifying Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs).

Here at Availed Technologies, we work with municipalities and engineering firms across North America everyday who are in the process of specifying RRFBs. We focus on the following three points: Array to Load Ratio, Autonomy, and Shading.

Before we get into the performance requirements it should be noted that the operational requirements of an RRFB are important to specify and these are clearly defined in the MUTCD 11th Edition, Chapter 4L. One other point that is discussed at the end of this article is the option to use standard sign posts for RRFBs.

#1: RRFBs and Array to Load Ratio

The Array to Load Ratio is the power coming into the system divided by the power consumed by the system. It is the single most important metric to pay attention to when specifying Solar RRFBs. The ALR Ratio must be greater than 1:1, and a minimum of 1.2:1 is recommended. Regardless of the size of the solar panel or size of the battery, a system with an ALR of less than one means there is a power deficit and the system will run out of power eventually.

For Solar RRFBs, the ALR must be calculated using worst case conditions to ensure reliable year-round operation. This is typically in December when the solar energy available is at a minimum. The Solar insolation for a particular location is available through a comprehensive database from NREL that is based on historical information which accounts for prevailing weather conditions and latitude.

Factoring in the site-specific solar data, the daily power generated by the RRFB is determined by how the device converts the available solar energy into electrical energy that runs the system and is stored in the battery. This calculation is manufacturer-specific and varies significantly from one brand to another.

Power Consumed By RRFBs

The power consumed by the RRFB is also very manufacturer-specific and will vary even more from brand to brand than the power generation side of the equation. Power is consumed by the RRFB lightbars when they flash and also by the wireless connection between the systems which manages the activation of all systems at the crosswalk, so that when any one push button is pressed all the RRFBs start flashing immediately and stop flashing at the same time.

The wireless connection must always be ‘on’ and therefore this function is a significant portion of the power consumed. Advances in both LED and wireless technology have enabled dramatic improvements in power efficiency, the result of which is the ability to achieve a high ALR with a compact and lightweight system.

#2: RRFBs and Autonomy

The autonomy of an RRFB is defined as the number of days it can operate without any charging. It is a function of the daily power consumption and the battery capacity of the system. In an actual installation autonomy is hypothetical because the system will charge in the day even during cloudy conditions. Cold temperatures will decrease the battery capacity and this should be factored into an autonomy calculation.

Autonomy should never be the sole metric used in specifying a solar RRFB because it does not take into account the ‘power in’ of the system. Nevertheless, it is an important consideration as energy storage is essential for the system to function during nighttime and low light conditions. An autonomy of 5-10 days is recommended.

#3: RRFBs and Shading

Shading from trees and buildings is site specific and is often overlooked. At Availed Technologies, we can review the location with Google street view and we will incorporate this information when producing the solar performance report.

Key takeaways:

  • Always use ALR and Autonomy when specifying RRFBs
  • Use a solar performance report that factors in site specific shading to ensure system reliability
  • Never specify the solar panel size or battery capacity alone as these metrics do not factor in the power generation and power consumption of the system.

For further information on ALR, Autonomy, and RRFB efficiency see the article The Power of Solar RRFB Systems.

A final consideration when specifying RRFBs is the pole type. A positive benefit of an efficient system is that the product is compact and lightweight which makes it feasible to use standard sign posts. Using 2” Telespar square perforated tubing or standard 2” round sign posts will significantly reduce the installed cost of the system and will simplify the installation process. Standard sign posts can also be helpful for placement of RRFBs in locations where space is limited.

One feature worth mentioning regarding the Availed AV-400 RRFB is that it comes with a Universal mounting system that is compatible with all pole types, from the traditional 4 ½” diameter pedestal poles to 2” square and round posts, and everything in between.

Have any further questions about the essentials of RRFBs? Reach out to our team today!

Highlighter yellow Availed RRFB school crossing sign with arrow, with a tree and blue sky in background.

Availed Technologies Has Been Approved by Oregon DOT

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We are happy to announce that the Availed AV-400 Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon is now listed as a qualified product on the Oregon DOT Green Sheets.

What is the Green Sheet Qualification Process?

Maintained by the Traffic-Roadway Section of the Oregon Department of Transportation, the Green Sheet Qualification process has a comprehensive evaluation process for a wide range of Traffic Signal, Illumination, and ITS equipment that includes physical, operational, and environmental testing.  For RRFBs in particular, the device is evaluated to ensure it is compliant with the requirements of the FHWA interim approval and the MUTCD and that it meets the requirements for mounting as shown in TM493.  Only prequalified RRFBs already listed on the green sheets will be approved for use for Oregon DOT projects under contract

The Importance of Energy Efficiency for RRFBs

As is very typical in the Pacific Northwest, many parts of Oregon have very low solar insolation during the winter months which presents a challenging environment for solar products such as the Availed AV-400 RRFB.  Key to ensuring reliable operation is energy efficiency, and this is where the AV-400 stands out.  All aspects of the product, from the wireless connectivity between units to the optical design of the LED lightbars has been designed to minimize power consumption.

 

For more about energy efficiency with RRFBs and how to specify products to ensure reliable operation see this article.

 

Availed Technologies – Now on the BC Recognized Products List

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Here at Availed Technologies, we’re proud to announce that our AV-400 RRFB has been approved by the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOT) and is officially on their Recognized Products list.

Today’s blog outlines all you need to know:

What is the BC Recognized Products List?

The BC Recognized Products List is a comprehensive database of products that are approved for use for highway construction and maintenance contractors

Products on this list are frequently used in performing work as part of contracts with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure regarding the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of highways and bridges.

Approved products may be removed or suspended at any time if they do not perform or are found to be noncompliant or failing to meet ministry requirements.

The Importance of the BC Recognized Products List

The Recognized Products List is referenced during the following:

  • The road and bridge maintenance contract agreement
  • Project tender documents
  • Invitations to quote

It serves the important role of standardizing quality across different products and ensuring that approved manufacturers adhere to strict safety guidelines.

Approved Availed Technologies Products on the Recognized Products List

As an approved manufacturer, the following Availed Technologies products now hold a spot on British Columbia’s Recognized Products List:

  • The AV-240 Series, 24-Hour Flashing Beacon: A reliable, fast-installation flashing beacon with MUTCD-compliant flash patterns
  • The AV-400 Series, Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon: A purpose-built RRFB with a compact solar engine design, wireless operation, and a high-intensity light output that exceeds MUTCD requirements by up to five times

MassDOT RRFB Approval Announcement

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At Availed Technologies, we’re thrilled to announce that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (Highway Division, Qualified Traffic Control) has experimentally approved our AV-400 Solar RRFB.

Learn more about the importance of this approval today:

The Impact of the AV-400 Solar RRFB

RRFBs play a crucial role in pedestrian crash countermeasures, and our AV-400 Solar RRFB is no exception.

Purpose-built from the bottom-up, the AV-400 series features both high-efficiency LED modules and an ultra-low power controller that remains dependable year after year.

It also touts:

  • A rated operating capacity exceeding 300 activations per day
  • High-intensity light output that exceeds the MUTCD requirements by up to five times
  • A sophisticated, compact solar engine design that is install-ready for all pole mount systems, making the installation process under 15 minutes
  • Zero configuration required for near-wireless connection between systems; one wire runs from the push button to the solar engine
  • Easily bolted or banded to any pole size thanks to its three-point pivoting lightbar mounting bracket and universal solar engine mount

Whether you are a Traffic Engineer responsible for designing and specifying an upcoming project, a Town Engineer seeking lower-cost, higher-powered alternatives to your municipality’s existing RRFBs, or a Traffic Technologist who knows that your city’s pedestrian countermeasures need an upgrade, consider the AV-400 Solar RRFB today.

The Benefits of Working With Availed Technologies

As established in the FHWA Countermeasure Tech Sheet, the average cost of one RRFB system is $22,250 USD– ranging from $4,500 USD to $52,000 USD each.

However, Availed Technologies makes it so you can install three-to-five RRFB systems for the same average cost of one. It’s all thanks to our RRFBs’ higher efficiency, smaller form factor, and minimized size.

That means each RRFB in our AV-400 series:

  • Offers lower material costs
  • Is easy to handle and fast to install
  • Can be pre-installed prior to being on-site and/or mounted onto existing sign posts

We are so proud that our AV-400 Solar RRFB is now included on  MassDOT Qualified Traffic Control Equipment List, under the Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, Section 824: Flashing Beacons, Illuminated Warning Signs, and Lighted Barrier Arrows .

Guidelines and Warrant Processes for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons

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If you are looking for in-depth info on the guidelines and warrant process for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, then you’re in the right place.

Here at Availed Technologies, we pride ourselves on being specialists with Solar RRFBs. In today’s article, we explore the guidelines, warrant system, and design process for when and where to use RRFBs at uncontrolled marked crosswalks. Both FHWA and TAC have developed design criteria tools to assist traffic professionals in determining which treatment or treatments should be used for a given crosswalk.

Let’s dive in:

The FHWA Field Guide for Selecting Countermeasures at Uncontrolled Pedestrian Crossing Locations

Let’s look first at the FHWA Field Guide for Selecting Countermeasures at Uncontrolled Pedestrian Crossing Locations.

The first step in the guide is to collect an inventory of the roadway conditions, namely the speed limit, total vehicles per day, travel lane configuration, and approximate total pedestrians per hour (PPH) crossing the roadway.  Other pedestrian safety issues are to be recorded such as noted pedestrian conflicts, excessive vehicle speed, inadequate conspicuity and visibility, drivers not yielding, and insufficient separation between pedestrians and traffic.

The roadway conditions inventory is then used with Table 1 to determine which of the following Pedestrian Crash Countermeasures should be considered for the location.  The Table has rows for the Roadway Configuration (number of lanes, median islands) and columns for the posted speed limit and AADT (Annual Average Daily Traffic).

Pedestrian Crash Countermeasures

A subset of these guidelines involves pedestrian crash countermeasures. These are listed as:

  • High-visibility crosswalk markings, parking restrictions on crosswalk approach, adequate nighttime lighting levels, and crossing warning signs
  • Raised crosswalk
  • Advance Yield Here To (Stop Here For) Pedestrians sign and yield (stop) line
  • In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign
  • Curb extension
  • Pedestrian refuge island
  • Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacon (RRFB, which hold particular importance due to their effectiveness)
  • Road Diet
  • Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB)

Now that we’ve covered them, let’s turn our overview over to the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) Pedestrian Crossing Control Guide.

TAC Pedestrian Crossing Control Guide

Similar to the FHWA Pedestrian Crash Countermeasures, the TAC Pedestrian Crossing Control Guide includes a Treatment Selection Matrix where vehicle volume, speed limit, and total number of lanes are the primary variables used to determine which of the following crossing treatment options should be considered.

These crosswalk treatment options encompass the following tools:

  • Crosswalk with side mounted signs (GM)
  • Enhanced crosswalk with side-mounted signs (GM+) which includes advance yield lines, curb extensions, raised pedestrian refuge, and in-street signs
  • Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon
  • Overhead Flashing Beacon
  • Traffic Signal

In our opinion, the current third version of the TAC Pedestrian Crossing Control Guide from 2018 is somewhat outdated, in that RRFBs are now commonly used in overhead applications and should be considered instead of overhead flashing beacons. RRFBs have been demonstrated to be significantly more effective than traditional round flashing beacons.

The TAC Pedestrian Crossing Control Guide also includes a flow chart intended to be used as a preliminary decision support tool.  The tool includes Average Hourly Pedestrian Volume as a criteria, and includes a weighting system where pedestrian volume is converted to Equivalent Adult Units (EAU) to account for pedestrian age and physical ability or at-risk pedestrians.

Key Takeaways Regarding Guidelines and Warrant Processes for Uncontrolled Marked Crosswalks

According to the FHWA Countermeasure Tech Sheet, the average cost of an RRFB system is USD $22,250, with a range of $4,500 to $52,000 each.

Systems like the Availed AV-400 RRFB that are highly efficient have a much smaller form factor than previous technology, and the smaller size greatly reduces the installed cost in the following ways:

  • Has lower material costs compared to larger, less efficient systems
  • Is lightweight and easy to handle, thereby significantly reducing installation time
  • Can be easily pre-installed on the pole prior to being on site
  • Can be readily mounted onto existing sign posts. This is perhaps the greatest opportunity to minimize the installed cost, as the existing sign post footings can often be used which eliminates any expensive work involving the pole foundations. Regular sign posts are also significantly less costly than the larger poles that are necessary to support larger, less efficient solar RRFBs.

By utilizing existing sign posts, an agency can install three-to-five RRFB systems for the USD $22,250 average cost noted in the 2018 FHWA Tech Sheet.

Another factor that is implicit in the crosswalk treatment decision process is the concern with the overuse of crosswalk treatments.  The argument is that crosswalks and sign treatments should be used discriminately so that the effectiveness of these treatments is not deteriorated by overuse.  The concern for overuse of traffic signs is fundamental in the FHWA MUTCD, as noted in Section 2A.04 Excessive Use of Signs.

We here at Availed Technologies argue that the ‘Active’ nature of an RRFB makes the device largely immune to the risk of overuse.  An RRFB system that is not flashing will not contribute to any deterioration of effectiveness in the same way that prolific use of enhanced signs or pavement marking  will.  To this end, a requirement for a minimum number of pedestrians per hour arguably does not apply to RRFBs in the context of overuse.

Many agencies have developed their own decision process for prioritizing and selecting improvements for uncontrolled marked crosswalks. In many places, RRFBs have become a key tool that is used, owing to their high effectiveness, relatively low cost, and advantages of being an Active device that is not prone to overuse in the same way as passive treatments are.

Considering using RRFBs in an upcoming project?

Our expert team is here to answer all your questions. Contact us today.

 

RRFBs in the Next MUTCD

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Update: As of November 19, 2023, the 11th Edition of the MUTCD has been issued with the inclusion of RRFBs in Chapter 4L. Read more about it here.

 

RRFBs were first introduced under an interim approval with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in 2008.  Since that time, and due to the high effectiveness of the device, the use of  RRFBs as a crosswalk enhancement has become widespread.

Today, we here at Availed Technologies are going to outline RRFBs proposed role in the next MUTCD– including the most significant proposed changes to it to enhance pedestrian safety.

Let’s jump right in:

The Absence of an Updated MUTCD

In the absence of an updated version of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD),  the RRFB has remained under an interim approval for well over a decade.  On March 4th, 2022 FHWA Issued a Status of Rulemaking for the Eleventh Edition of the MUTCD.

According to this update, The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act directs USDOT to update the MUTCD by no later than May 15, 2023.

As one would expect, RRFBs are a key feature of the recommended changes as noted in the FWHA, U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) notice of proposed amendments (NPA). These recommended changes orbit around the incorporation of provisional traffic control devices.

The Incorporation of Provisional Traffic Control Devices

The incorporation of provisional traffic control devices currently under Interim Approval, including pedestrian-actuated rectangular rapid-flashing beacons at uncontrolled marked crosswalks, green-colored pavement for bicycle lanes, red-colored pavement for transit lanes, and a new traffic signal warrant based on crash experience.

It is also noteworthy that several other key proposed changes to the MUTCD focus on pedestrians and bicyclists, mainly:

  • Improvements to safety and accessibility for pedestrians, including the location of pushbuttons at signalized crosswalks, crosswalk marking patterns, and accommodations in work zones
  • Expanded traffic control devices to improve safety and operation for bicyclists, including intersection bicycle boxes,two-stage turn boxes, bicycle traffic signal faces, and a new design for the U.S. Bicycle Route sign

The National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (NCUTCD) recommended changes to the MUTCD are very similar to the Interim Approval (IA-21).  One significant addition is guidance on the use of RRFBs at intersections with two crosswalks on an uncontrolled approach.  Additional guidance is provided for the use of RRFBs with overhead-mounted signs.

The Role of RRFBs in the Future of Pedestrian Safety

Here at Availed Technologies, we have over 25 years of experience in the Solar LED industry. We understand that providing a best-in-class product demands the support of industry-leading partners, and we are very proud to be represented by some of the most trusted companies in the business.

We strongly encourage you to read more about the MUTCD proposed changes today– and, if you have any questions, to reach out to our team!

 

The Importance of Versatility and Standardization in RRFBs

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Have you heard about the importance of versatility and standardization in RRFBs?

In today’s blog, the Availed Technologies team outline why this is so crucial, its many benefits, and a real-life example of versatility and standardization done right.

Let’s dive in.

What Are RRFBs?

RRFBs are a unique traffic control device designed specifically to improve pedestrian safety at uncontrolled marked crosswalks.  Uncontrolled crosswalks come in many different shapes and sizes from one-way or two-way roadways, from two to four lanes, and with or without median islands, curb bulb outs or extensions, etc.

On the other hand, uncontrolled crosswalks can be located at intersections where the major legs are through lanes or at mid-block locations such as school crossings or trail crossings. Other locations include roundabouts and bicycle corridors.

Lastly, crosswalk locations can sometimes have sightline issues due to curves or other features.

What is Versatility and Standardization in RRFB-Related Product Design?

With over 25 years of combined experience in the Solar LED industry (and, more specifically, solar LED for traffic safety), our team has both the knowledge and the skillset to deliver products that out-perform the competition year after year.

How do we achieve this?

By utilizing both versatility and standardization.

Versatility refers to how adept a product is at being used in a range of configurations that stem from the crosswalk and roadway design.

Standardization in this discussion is defined as the extent to which versatility can be accomplished with a single model.

For example, a key requirement for configuring RRFBs at the crosswalk is to have lightbars visible to oncoming vehicles on both the left and right hand side of the roadway.  This requirement, coupled with the wide range of crosswalk configurations results in the need for the RRFB device to be versatile.  Consider these scenarios:

  1. Two way, two lane roadway.  In this common configuration there are two back-to-back lightbars on each side of the crosswalk.
  2. Two way, four lane roadway with median.  In this configuration there are typically single sided lightbar systems on the curb sides and either one back-to-back system or two single sided systems on the median.  The systems on the median may or may not have push buttons.
  3. Crosswalks at a roundabout. In this application each crosswalk is for one-way traffic, therefore single sided lightbars are typically used.

As demonstrated here, RRFBs can include either one or two lightbars and be with or without a push button.  In some cases, such as when sightlines require it, the location of the lightbars will be different than where the push button should be located.  This scenario may utilize a system that consists of only the solar engine and the push button, without any lightbars.

In other cases, such as when RRFBs are installed in advance of the crosswalk with the Ahead sign, the system would consist of one lightbar and no push button.

In all cases with RRFBs, there is a wireless connection between systems so that when a push button is activated on one system the other system(s) at the crosswalk flash.  Ideally the wireless connection between systems is automatic and requires no field configuration.  Regardless of how many systems are used, all will turn on and off in a synchronized manner when the push button on any one of the systems is activated.

In the event that there are multiple crosswalks in proximity to one another there needs to be a means to avoid a push button actuation at one crosswalk activating lightbars at another crosswalk.  This is referred to as crosstalk and can be easily addressed by a field adjustable dial on the solar engine controller for channel selection.

Learn More About Versatility and Standardization for RRFBs Today

The MUTCD 11th Edition, chapter 4L requires that RRFBs be on both the left-hand and right-hand side of the roadway for each approach.  This frames the crosswalk for drivers and is one of the reasons the system is so effective.  As we have seen, it does demand versatility in the system to allow for a range of installation configurations.

To simplify the ordering, inventory, and installation logistics an RRFB system should be able to have two, one, or no lightbars and either be connected to a push button or not.  In other words, it should be both standardized and versatile.

At Availed Technologies, all of our products are created and sold with both versatility and standardization in mind.

By prioritizing these two product design factors, we ensure that our RRFBs fit a wide range of crosswalk configurations and are easy and fast to install.

To learn more about how to utilize our best-in-class RRFBs, or if you have questions about how to implement RRFBs in your particular situation contact our team today.

What to Know About the Power of Solar RRFB Systems

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Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/landscape-photograph-of-skies-912364/

How much do you know about the power of solar RRFB systems?

In today’s blog, the team here at Availed Technologies outline common FAQs surrounding solar-powered RRFB systems: namely what the common array-to-load (ALR) variables are and what to keep in mind when maximizing power consumption.

Firstly, What Makes the ALR so Crucial?

The fundamentals for ensuring that the power of solar RRFB systems will be reliable year-round hinge on having a system where, on a daily basis, the power generated is greater than the power consumed. In the solar field this is known as the array-to-load ratio, or ALR.

Many of the variables for determining the ALR are intuitive, while others are less so. The following variables are considered the most common:

Time of Year, Latitude, and Historical Weather

A given system will have a much greater ALR installed in the sun-belt than in the Pacific Northwest. Time of year, latitude, and historical weather are all variables that are captured in solar insolation data available from NREL (the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.)

Industry best practices are to ensure the ALR of a system is a minimum of 1.2:1. To calculate this, the solar insolation value (measured as equivalent sun hours) for the month that has the lowest solar insolation for the year (typically December) is used.

Trees and Buildings

One often overlooked variable is shading from trees and buildings. Google’s Street View provides an excellent tool for determining the shade derating of a particular location, and it is important that this is factored into the calculation.

Why? Because more shade, of course, equals less daily power!

‘Under-the-Hood’ Variables

Also frequently overlooked are the ‘under-the-hood’ variables of solar RRFB systems themselves.

On the power generation side of the equation, this involves the solar panel and charging system that work together to deliver power to the batteries. Monocrystalline solar panels provide greater efficiency over polycrystalline solar panels; this difference is greatest during marginal charging conditions where, for an RRFB application, this is often when charging is most critical.

Similarly, Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charge controller technology provides greater efficiency over PWM (Pulse Width Modulation, particularly during lower light conditions where power generation can be so crucial.

The variables discussed so far are on the power generation side of the equation. On the power consumption side there are often very significant differences between different manufacturers’ systems and the technologies that are used.

Solar RRFB System Power Consumption

Before outlining the power consumption variables of solar RRFB systems, it should be noted that there are some inherent ‘buffers’ that make RRFBs particularly well-suited for solar power.

During the winter months where solar insolation is at its lowest, there is typically lower pedestrian activity… particularly during inclement weather. In addition, with shorter daylight hours comes more activations occurring in darkness when the system runs at a lower intensity, as dimming is required by the MUTCD for RRFBs and works to mitigate the disability glare that occurs if the light intensity is too bright.

Now, onto key solar RRFB system power consumption variables:

LED Efficiency

LED efficiency is a key variable in power consumption of an RRFB system. LEDs have been described as the ‘enabling technology’ for solar traffic devices and the gains seen throughout the years have been a game changer.

The landscape keeps changing and today there are ultra-efficient premium LEDs that, while cost-prohibitive for many applications, provide energy savings for devices like solar RRFBs that are significant.

The light intensity specification for RRFB LED indications is SAE J595 Class I which requires a relatively narrow beam pattern, much narrower than the ITE specification for LED Traffic Signal Modules. Compared to school zone flashers and 24-hour flashers that utilize these modules RRFBs require far less power which makes the device particularly well suited for solar power.

At the same time, in part due to the directional beam pattern combined with the irregular flash pattern, the RRFB is far more effective than traditional flashing beacons for a pedestrian activated warning system at uncontrolled crosswalks.

Wireless Technology

Another determining factor of power consumption is around the wireless technology used.

When one RRFB system is activated by the pedestrian push button all other systems commence activation simultaneously through being connected wirelessly. A wireless system designed for this specific application will consume a fraction of the power of a system designed for more general ITS applications.

Similarly, a controller that is designed specifically for the RRFB application will consume far less power than a controller designed for multiple applications. A well-designed controller will manage all the functions of the system with microchip level components on a single printed circuit board assembly. These functions include charging, powering the LEDs, field adjustments such as flash duration, and wireless connectivity between systems.

In short, an inefficient system can consume nearly four times the power compared to a highly efficient system. The Availed AV-400 RRFB, with a 20W solar panel and 14Ah battery capacity, will have a greater operating capacity than a less efficient system with a 60W solar panel and 50Ah battery capacity.

Energy Storage

Energy storage is the other key factor that needs to be considered and properly specified. The purpose of including batteries in an RRFB system is two fold: to enable operation during dark conditions when there is no charging, and to enable the system to operate through extreme weather conditions where over a 24 hour period the power generated could be less than the power consumed (ie when the ALR ratio is less than 1).

Consider a scenario when there are heavy overcast skies day after day in the winter time when daylight is already greatly reduced. In these conditions, charging will still occur with systems that have efficient charging technology, however the system could run an energy deficit where more power is consumed than generated during a 24 hour period. Sufficient battery capacity will ensure that the system will continue to operate throughout these conditions.

Industry best practices are for a system to have an autonomy of 5-to-10 days. A system with a high ALR will maintain reliable operation even with a lower autonomy due to the system’s ability to maintain charging in challenging conditions.

Start Utilizing the Power of Solar RRFB Systems Today

Given the multitude of variables involved in both the power generation and power consumption, the best way to evaluate an RRFB is with a Solar Performance Report that provides the array-to-load (ALR) and autonomy calculations.

Need help getting started harnessing the power of solar RRFB systems? Reach out to Availed Technologies today.

What to Know About the Safe Transportation for Every Pedestrian (STEP) Program

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Rendering courtesy of Alta Planning + Design

Today’s blog is your comprehensive rundown of what to know about the Safe Transportation for Every Pedestrian (STEP) Program.

Without further ado, let’s jump into what the STEP Program is, why it is so important to pedestrian safety, and the important role RRFBs play in the implementation of the program:

What is the STEP Program?

The STEP Program was created by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to outline a series of recommendations that aim to significantly reduce pedestrian fatalities. It is a safety initiative that compiles multiple different pedestrian countermeasures that have proven safety benefits.

A key focus of the STEP Program is to improve pedestrian safety at uncontrolled marked crosswalks.

How the STEP Program Improves Pedestrian Safety

While the program’s goal is to address national safety problems and, in turn, improve the safety of individuals of all ages, stats prove just how crucial its implementation is.

For example, the National Highway Traffic Administration reports, “2016 witnessed the most pedestrian fatalities since 1990, accounting for approximately 16% of all roadway fatalities. Cost-effective countermeasures can be systemically applied to reduce these crashes and save lives.”

More specifically, these referenced countermeasures include:

  • Leading pedestrian intervals (LPIs) at signalized intersections, which flag to pedestrians to walk before vehicles get a green left or right signal
  • Raised crosswalks, which act as a traffic-calming measure that reduces vehicle speeds
  • Pedestrian crossing/refuge islands, which permit pedestrians a safer place to pause at the midpoint of a roadway before crossing the remaining distance
  • Pedestrian hybrid beacons (PHBs), which provide stop control for high-speed, multi-lane roadways
  • Road diets, which work to reduce the number of lanes pedestrians cross and overall vehicle speeds
  • Crosswalk visibility enhancements like crosswalk lighting and signage to help nighttime drivers and pedestrians navigate
  • Rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs): arguably the most vital implementation in the STEP Program

Here’s why RRFBs are considered so important to pedestrian safety:

RRFBs and Pedestrian Safety

Across North America, RRFBs have been assessed in areas like Arlington as a crucial part of the STEP Program.

Why? Because RRFBs are pedestrian-activated amber LED lights that significantly increase driver yielding behaviour.

RRFB implementation has also proven to:

  • Reduce pedestrian crashes
  • Decrease the average driver’s speed

As such, the STEP Program now prioritizes RRFBs in locations where warranted. This is determined by road configuration, daily vehicle volume (AADT), and posted speed limit. See page 23 of the FHWA Guide.

Learn More About RRFB Effectiveness Today

Here at Availed Technologies, we proudly offer products like the AV-400 RRFB that have helped the STEP Program reach their safety goals: our mission is extremely focused on producing the best products possible that are simple to install and provide exceptional reliability and performance.

To learn more about our best-in-class RRFBs, LED Enhanced Signs, and flashing beacons (or more about safety takeaways from the STEP Program), contact our team today.