Solar-Powered Wireless Flashing Pedestrian LED Warning Sign System - Santa Cruz, CA
This project involved the installation of a radar-based traffic monitoring system at a property in rural Santa Cruz, with the goal of enhancing safety for vehicles on the winding roads and hairpin turns within the property.
The system includes flashing warning signs, radar detection, and solar-powered control units, all designed to improve visibility and alert drivers to oncoming traffic in areas where the road narrows or visibility is limited.
Project Highlights
ENHANCED SAFETY
The new system significantly improves driver awareness in areas where the road is narrow or where visibility is limited, reducing the risk of accidents.
GREEN TECHNOLOGY
The use of solar power for the entire system ensures it is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective to operate, with minimal ongoing energy costs.
REDUNDANCY
The installation includes two 24V batteries as a backup power source, providing redundancy to ensure continuous operation during periods of low sunlight, thus enhancing the system’s reliability.
DURABILITY
All components of the system, from the radar units to the control boxes, are built to withstand the outdoor environment, ensuring long-term reliability.
AESTHETICS
The installation was carefully planned to blend with the natural surroundings, preserving the property’s rural charm while enhancing safety.
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Scope of Work
Site Survey and Planning
- Conducted a detailed survey of the property to determine the optimal locations for radar units, warning signs, and control boxes.
- Coordinated with the property owner to ensure the planned locations would effectively enhance safety without compromising the aesthetics of the property.
Radar and Sign Installation
- Installed radar units at key locations to monitor oncoming vehicles. The radar units are strategically positioned to maximize their detection range and minimize false alerts.
- Erected flashing warning signs at the entrance and other critical points on the road. The signs are equipped with high-visibility lights to ensure they are noticeable to drivers at all times.
Solar Power Control System
- Installed solar panels and battery storage units to power the radar and sign systems, ensuring they operate independently of the grid.
- Mounted weatherproof control boxes to house the electronics and batteries, providing easy access for maintenance while protecting the equipment from environmental factors.
- Integrated two car batteries as a backup power supply to ensure the system remains operational even during periods of insufficient sunlight.
Electrical and Groundwork
- Performed excavation work to lay conduits for wiring between the radar units, signs, and control boxes.
- Installed wiring and made all necessary electrical connections to ensure seamless communication between the radar units and the flashing signs.
- Backfilled and restored the site to its original condition after completing the electrical work.
System Calibration & Testing
- Calibrated the radar units to ensure accurate detection of vehicles and correct timing of the flashing warning signs.
- Conducted extensive testing to verify the system’s reliability and effectiveness, adjusting the settings as necessary based on real-world conditions.
