Introduction to a Smarter Traffic System
Joel Roberts, a PhD student in civil engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM), has turned his frustration with sitting at red lights into an award-winning startup. His company, Shepherd Traffic, uses computer vision, geometry, and smart algorithms to capture more detailed and accurate traffic data than what’s currently available. This innovative approach aims to optimize traffic flow and reduce waiting times at intersections.
The Problem with Current Traffic Systems
Traditional traffic management systems rely on fixed timing patterns that don’t respond to the nuances of traffic. These systems can’t optimize every situation, leading to inefficient traffic flow and frustration for drivers. Roberts’ system, on the other hand, uses automated object counting and classification to provide more accurate data. This data can be used to optimize traffic signal timing, reducing congestion and wait times.
How Shepherd Traffic Works
Shepherd Traffic’s system uses computer vision and geometry to track the movement of objects, including cars, trucks, bikes, and pedestrians. The algorithm recognizes and calculates the delay for every object at any given point when the light changes, figuring out the best moment to switch to minimize everyone’s wait. This approach is not only more accurate but also faster and more scalable than traditional manual traffic counting methods.
From Idea to Reality
The idea for Shepherd Traffic was born out of Roberts’ frustration with traffic and his passion for optimization problems. He took his idea to UWM’s Lubar Entrepreneurship Center, where he met Professor Xiao Qin, an expert in traffic systems. With Qin’s guidance and support, Roberts was able to turn his idea into a reality. He applied to the I-Corps program, a national initiative that helps turn university research into startups, and received an assistantship to support his graduate studies.
The Road Ahead
Shepherd Traffic has already gained recognition, winning the $2,500 grand prize at the WiSys Big Idea Pitch Competition. Looking ahead, Roberts plans to expand his data capabilities to include pedestrians and near misses, a topic that Qin has conducted research on. He hopes his system can one day help forecast risky driving behavior, such as the likelihood of someone running a red light. This could transform how cities plan intersections, adjust signal timing, and improve safety.
Business Models and Future Plans
Roberts is exploring two business models: selling traffic insights directly or licensing the software behind them. While the demand may be modest for now, he believes his vision for data-driven intersections will be in high demand as smart cities grow and infrastructure modernizes. With his innovative approach and commitment to improving traffic systems, Roberts is poised to make a significant impact on the way cities manage traffic.
Conclusion
Shepherd Traffic is a revolutionary startup that’s changing the way we think about traffic management. By using computer vision, geometry, and smart algorithms, Roberts’ system provides more accurate and detailed traffic data, optimizing traffic flow and reducing wait times. With its potential to improve safety, reduce congestion, and transform urban planning, Shepherd Traffic is an exciting innovation that’s sure to make a lasting impact on the future of transportation.
