At the 84th Thessaloniki International Fair - Helexpo, the Hellenic Institute of Transport (HIT/CERTH), presented the highly innovative project SAFE STRIP.
SAFE STRIP aims to introduce a breakthrough technology that will achieve to embed C-ITS (Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems) applications in existing road infrastructure, including novel I2V (Infrastructure to Vehicle) and V2I (Vehicle to Infrastructure), as well as VMS/VSL (Variable Message Signs/ Variable Speed Limits) functions into low-cost, integrated strips markers on the road to make roads self-explanatory (with personalized in-vehicle messages) and forgiving (due to advanced cooperative functions) for all road users (trucks, cars and vulnerable road users, such as PTWs - Powered Two Wheelers riders) and all vehicle generations (non-equipped, C-ITS equipped, autonomous), with reduced maintenance cost, full recyclability and added value services, as well as supporting real-time predictive road maintenance functions. The functionality of the cooperative system applications is to be implemented by a revolutionary idea: through low-cost micro/ nano sensor communities embedded in road elements (in road pavement tapes/ markers), thus not requiring costly sensors or infrastructural elements.
At TIF-HELEXPO, HIT researchers presented the SAFE STRIP project under the guidance of HIT’s Technical Coordinator-Researcher Maria Gkemou. Regarding the vehicles equipped with advanced driver support systems, autonomous vehicles using I2V technologies as well as non-equipped vehicles receiving mobile alerts. Specific traffic scenarios for accident prevention and safe driving will be demonstrated. SAFE STRIP begins the first round of pilot tests on Attica Road in October 2019, with pilot tests continuing in Spain and Italy.
As stated by the Director of HIT, Dr. Evangelos Bekiaris “The development of SAFE STRIP is expected to significantly increase road safety through valid and immediate road, environmental and traffic information, whilst at the same time the system aims to replace toll stations, current 'smart' parking applications and VMSs. (Variable Message Signs) ”.
It is noted that HIT/ CERTH is the main research organization in the field of Transport in Greece and among the most important and most recognized pan-European technology node and reports directly to the General Secretariat for Research and Technology of the Ministry of Education, Research and Religious Affairs.
