A provider of intelligent transportation infrastructure technology has been granted a patent for its direct radio and cellular network communication technology for controlling traffic signals.

Applied Information Inc.’s patent for the pre-emptive system — U.S. Patent 11,055,991, which is entitled Systems, Methods, and Devices for Communication Between Traffic Controller Systems and Mobile Transmitters and Receivers — enables certain vehicles, such as those operated by first responders, to change traffic signals to green lights at intersections, thereby reducing response times.

Source: Applied Information

According to the patent, the technology can also be used by school bus drivers and delivery van operators. The technology is already in use by fire departments, ambulances, snowplows and police vehicles in cities throughout the U.S. and Canada, where it has already reportedly improved the flow of traffic and reduced response times by as much as 18% in those regions.

For more information on the patented technology, watch the accompanying video detailing how the technology is being used in Alpharetta, Georgia, which appears courtesy of Applied Information.