More and more, it’s starting to feel like the days where the absence of police meant drivers can skirt traffic laws are nearing an end. For instance, we all know about red light cameras that snap photographs of traffic signal violators. Now brace yourself for a revolutionary surveillance camera that can track how fast cars are moving — in real time.
The Cordon multi-target photo radar system can keep tabs on as many as 32 vehicles moving along on a four lane highway using sensors that measure the speed of cars as they come in and out of the frame and recording their license plate numbers. Built-in infrared radar enables the technology to work 24 hours a day and the system can be networked to stream the data continuously to a central database via 3G, WiMAX or Wi-Fi.
There are currently speed enforcement photo cameras operating in some states, though the radar can’t track more than one vehicle at a time. And as you can see from the demonstration video, nothing says verifiably caught in the act than a clear identification and real-time speed reading superimposed on your vehicle. Also, it doesn’t only go after speedsters. The system can catch drivers sneaking into bus lanes or driving the wrong way thanks to integrated GPS technology that monitors a car’s coordinates.
The radar camera system isn’t scheduled to debut in North American streets until 2012, so drivers with a heavy foot do have some time to repent and change their reckless ways.
(via Gizmodo)
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