Traffic light sensors

[42]

Seems my cart often doesn't trigger the sensors embedded in the road. It's a common problem with golf carts, motorcycles and mopeds. Where I live, they have a “dead red” law. What it boils down to is after being stopping for two minutes, you can treat the red light as a stop sign, meaning you can go forward or turn left if it's safe to do so. Needless to say, this is hairy at busy intersections.

Is there anything that can be installed so the sensors know you're there?

[Michael Eddie]

Its possible there is an induction loop sensor under the road. These sensors use a loop of wire embedded in the pavement to create a magnetic field which is triggered when a large metal object (like a car) disrupts it. But you can typically tell when these have been installed based on cut marks in the pavement.

What actually might be happening, as with many newer intersections, is the use of cameras or optical sensors that are mounted near or above the traffic light, programmed to detect a specific hue or reflection pattern that aligns with the top of an average vehicle. If your roof is the same color as the pavement, it may have a hard time picking it up.

In a pinch, if you’re regularly in areas with these sensors, try adding a light reflective item to the top of your cart could increase its visibility to the sensor. Reflective decals or small rooftop reflectors can sometimes make a difference in triggering the signal change

[42]

Its possible there is an induction loop sensor under the road. These sensors use a loop of wire embedded in the pavement to create a magnetic field which is triggered when a large metal object (like a car) disrupts it. But you can typically tell when these have been installed based on cut marks in the pavement.

What actually might be happening, as with many newer intersections, is the use of cameras or optical sensors that are mounted near or above the traffic light, programmed to detect a specific hue or reflection pattern that aligns with the top of an average vehicle. If your roof is the same color as the pavement, it may have a hard time picking it up.

In a pinch, if you’re regularly in areas with these sensors, try adding a light reflective item to the top of your cart could increase its visibility to the sensor. Reflective decals or small rooftop reflectors can sometimes make a difference in triggering the signal change

Hi Michael,

I'm asking about the loop sensors embedded in the pavement. I'm sure the aluminum frame on the Club Car doesn't help.

[cybercart]

just spool copper magnet wire around the rims next time your tires are off, right between your tire and rim. Seriously, just make sure the ends are touching so it actually conducts and does its thing. then just find the loop thingy on the road and line your wheels right over it!

[Michael Eddie]

just spool copper magnet wire around the rims next time your tires are off, right between your tire and rim. Seriously, just make sure the ends are touching so it actually conducts and does its thing. then just find the loop thingy on the road and line your wheels right over it!

I love the creativity here. You know, relating to this idea, you might want to try experimenting by bending some wire coat hangers into circles and zip tieing them under your cart in various spots. It's super easy to experiment with and could give you a good signal. Plus, it keeps the whole setup simple and easy!

[42]

just spool copper magnet wire around the rims next time your tires are off, right between your tire and rim. Seriously, just make sure the ends are touching so it actually conducts and does its thing. then just find the loop thingy on the road and line your wheels right over it!

Really?

[golfcartg]

Theoretically I suppose it could make sense: if the loop sensors detect metal by creating an electromagnetic field, having magnetic copper there might make you more noticeable to the sensor. But who knows? I’d say give it a shot if you’re curious, and just imagine the looks you’ll get if you’re explaining this hack on the road! If nothing else, it’s definitely an interesting science experiment in seeing what these sensors will and won’t detect