Here’s an interesting concept from designer Hanyoung Lee, the Virtual Wall Traffic lights.
This concept certainly looks like it would get drivers’ attention a lot more than traditional traffic lights, as they would display a large virtual barrier across the road when the lights are red.
The barrier is made up of plasma laser beams which show virtual pedestrians in the road, letting drivers know to stop. It is definitely a very clever concept, although I am not sure how practical it would be. I certainly could see some applications where it would work well, such as zebra crossings.
Advantages of Virtual Wall Traffic Lights
One of the primary advantages of the Virtual Wall Traffic lights is their ability to capture the attention of drivers more effectively than traditional traffic lights. The visual impact of a large, illuminated barrier across the road is hard to ignore, which could potentially reduce the number of accidents caused by drivers running red lights. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas or zones with a high incidence of pedestrian activity.
Moreover, the use of plasma laser beams to create virtual pedestrians adds an extra layer of safety. Drivers are more likely to stop when they see what appears to be people crossing the road, even if those people are virtual. This could be especially useful in school zones, busy intersections, and areas with heavy foot traffic.
Potential Challenges and Practicality
While the concept is innovative, there are several challenges that need to be addressed for it to become a practical solution. One of the main concerns is the cost of implementation. Installing plasma laser systems at every traffic light could be prohibitively expensive for many municipalities. Additionally, the technology would need to be robust enough to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and fog, which could potentially interfere with the visibility of the virtual barrier.
Another challenge is the potential for distraction. While the virtual wall is designed to capture attention, it could also be seen as a distraction, especially for drivers who are not accustomed to such advanced technology. There would need to be a period of adjustment and possibly even public education campaigns to ensure that drivers understand how to respond to these new traffic signals.
Despite these challenges, the Virtual Wall Traffic lights offer a glimpse into the future of road safety. As technology continues to advance, we may see more innovative solutions like this one being tested and potentially implemented in cities around the world.
In conclusion, Hanyoung Lee’s Virtual Wall Traffic lights present a fascinating and potentially life-saving innovation in traffic management. While there are practical challenges to overcome, the concept offers significant advantages in terms of capturing driver attention and enhancing pedestrian safety. It will be interesting to see how this technology evolves and whether it will become a common sight on our roads in the future.
Hanyoung Lee via Yanko Design, Gadget Venue
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
