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Device: Microwave Detector

The microwave pedestrian detector provides the means to automatically detect the presence of pedestrians in either the targeted curbside area and/or while moving in a designated crosswalk area.

When used at the curbside area, it may either replace or augment the standard push button used to activate the pedestrian call feature.

When used to detect pedestrians in the crosswalk, its function is to detect the presence of individuals requiring additional time to cross, and accordingly extend the clearance interval and provide more time to cross.

How do microwave detectors work?
Electromagnetic energy in the range of 24.125 GHz (+ or - 50 MHz) is emitted from a point source located generally about 12 feet above a target area (e.g, curbside area or area within a crosswalk). By processing the characteristics of the energy reflected from an object (in this case, a pedestrian) within the path of the energy, the detector is able to recognize the presence of a pedestrian (via detection of his/her motion) in the target area. The detection of motion in the target area (for example, curbside) is equivalent in this case to a pedestrian pressing the call button. In either case, the result is the same; i.e., WALK, DONT WALK information is appropriately displayed to the pedestrian.

Microwave Detectors are presently installed in: Los Angeles, CA & Portland, OR

Pedestrians entering the curbside microwave detection zone (shown in red) will activate the pedestrian call feature. At the same time, slower pedestrians detected within the on-street detection zones (shown in blue) will receive more time to cross the street.

Photo of a microwave detector installed on a traffic signal pole

company specific devices
	Microwave Sensors Using MICRO-MOTION^TM technology, the SmartWalk™ 1400 and the SmartWalk™ 1800 are two types of microwave detection systems available from Microwave Sensors in Ann Arbor, MI. The Model 1400 is intended for operation at the curbside while the Model 1800 is intended for operation in the crosswalk. Conventional microwave sensors are unable to detect the small amounts of movement exhibited by pedestrians waiting at the curbside. The result was the lack of pedestrian detection and the cancellation of the pedestrian signal call. MICRO-MOTION™ technology allows for the detection of even the smallest of pedestrian movements. Thus a pedestrian entering the detection zone and standing at the curbside can be continuously detected, and the pedestrian signal will not be cancelled. To learn more about these devices, including the technical specifications, go to http://www.mssedco.com/traffic_pedestrian_sensors.htm Microwave Sensors 7885 Jackson Road Ann Arbor, MI 48103-9568 Phone: (800) 521-0418 Fax: (800) 847-5762
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