Tunnel in Berlins Quarter Britz

The Project

At 1,713 meters the Britz tunnel is the longest tunnel in Berlin. It includes many curves and has long been prone to accidents and congestion. A VMS system is intended to influence the traffic flows in the tunnel using different speed limits to ensure smooth and safe traffic flows at all times. This, however, requires the observance of the established maximum speed limits.

In order to avoid excessive speeds, ensure long-term traffic calming and reduce pollution levels, the fixed TraffiStar S 330 speed enforcement system was installed in 2010. The modular measurement system features intelligent adaptation possibilities and permits both the use of BlackFlash flash technology and a connection to the available VMS system.

The Technology

A total of four TraffiStar S 330 measurement cross-sections were installed in the tunnel to monitor three lanes in each direction. For each cross-section one digital ROBOT SmartCamera and one BlackFlash flash system were mounted on the tunnel wall for each individual lane – some in combination with additional digital camera installations for synchronized rear images to capture speeding motorcycles.

Furthermore, the installation of a dedicated line fulfilled the requirement for reliable data transfer.

The smooth enforcement of the changing speed limits displayed by the variable message sign system was made possible thanks to the connection of the TraffiStar S330 system to the VMS system. The limit values for the triggering of the cameras are automatically adjusted by the special VMS connection processor on the basis of the current settings of the VMS system.

If the limit value is exceeded, the ROBOT SmartCamera and BlackFlash flash are triggered. Thanks to the black light flash system the number plate and vehicle interior can be illuminated without the driver being irritated by any bright flashes.

The system stores the speed violation together with the traffic situation and all information relevant to the penalty procedure in a signed data container. The incident data are then transmitted to a central penalty center and evaluated there.

The Result

Even a short time after the installation of the TraffiStar S 330 technology connected to the variable message sign system, a significant improvement in traffic flows was recorded in the Britz tunnel in the form of more consistent speeds, a reduction of pollution levels and a drop in the number of serious tunnel accidents.