Murray intersection traffic signal system is first in nation powered by LiDAR

A computer generates signals sent by sensors on each corner of the Murray intersection of 5900 South and State Street (right) into a traffic pattern that controls the traffic signals in the intersection.
The LiDAR-driven system enhances safety and convenience for automobile drivers and other traffic such a bicycles and pedestrians. The system is the first in the nation to use LiDAR for traffic control.

Seoul Robotics, an industrial autonomous driving company based in Korea, has deployed the United States’ first traffic signal system powered by LiDAR sensor data at the intersection of State Street and 5900 South in Murray. The system installation was initiated by the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT).

LiDAR, which stands for “light detection and ranging,” is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure distances. The advanced sensor technology can detect, count and track vehicles and other road users under any weather conditions. The installation in Murray is powered by Seoul Robotics’ 3D Perception engine, housed in a compact edge device, and utilizes LiDAR sensors at each corner of the intersection. The system creates a digital twin of the intersection to feed data to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion.

The project is a collaboration among Seoul Robotics, Gades Sales Co. and Blue Band. Gades Sales, the Salt Lake City distributor, installed and ensured the system was integrated into the local infrastructure. Meanwhile, Florida-based Blue-Band’s software acts as an interface, translating the data processed by Seoul Robotics into signal commands compatible with existing traffic controllers.

UDOT said that since its installation in March, the system has been operating flawlessly using precise stop-bar detection, advanced vehicle detection up to 300 feet from the stop bar and detection of red light running. Additionally, the system boasts a vehicle-counting accuracy of 99.8 percent at the stop bar.

“Since its installation, our LiDAR-based traffic management system has consistently demonstrated excellent detection and tracking of objects, ensuring reliable performance across all weather conditions,” said Lee Han-bin, CEO of Seoul Robotics, “This technology not only meets but exceeds the demands of modern traffic systems.”

Beyond managing vehicle flow, the system also enhances traffic engineering by accurately counting and monitoring vulnerable road users (VRUs), such as pedestrians and cyclists at crosswalks and curbsides. This data is crucial for traffic engineers aiming to further develop and improve intersections for the safety and convenience of VRUs. The technology opens the way for smart crossings where the traffic controller can adapt to the different mobility needs of pedestrians by adjusting the green-light time.

UDOT will use results from the pilot program to determine if the LiDAR system will be installed at additional sites.