Al Tayer: 300 Junctions Now Linked To Central Traffic Light Control System

Linking all junctions to be completed in mid 2011 232 cameras linked to the Control Center are now mounted at junctions, main roads

Roads & Transport Authority – Mohammed Al Munji:
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), announced the completion of linking 300 signalized junctions with the Central Light Traffic Control System; which represents about 75 per cent of light signals in the Emirate of Dubai. He stated that work was progressing in linking the remaining 100 junctions to the control system such that all signalized junctions would fully linked to the system by the first half of this year.

Al Tayer made this statement during a tour he made to the Traffic Systems Control Center at Bani Yas in the presence of the CEO of Traffic & Roads Agency engineer Maitha Mohammed bin Udai, Director of Intelligent Traffic Systems Mohammed Al Awadi, and several managers and engineers of Traffic & Roads Agency.

During his tour of the Traffic Systems Control Center at Bani Yas, Al Tayer reviewed the modern technologies introduced to the Center including the control of various intelligent traffic systems such as the Virtual Messaging Signs; which comprises 24 advanced electronic signs designed to the highest specifications and fitted with sophisticated technologies covering several roads namely Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khaleej Road, Emirates Road, Sheikh Rashid Road, Abu Baker Al Siddique Road, Al Ittihad Road, Al Mina Road, Bani Yas Road, Al Maktoum & Al Garhoud Bridges, Al Shindagh a road.
The system computes the volume of traffic congestion on main and express roads, and detects the abnormal traffic flow (such as traffic accidents, roadside vehicle breakdown, and congestion triggered by heavy traffic flow). The system calculates trip timing on these roads following the analysis of inputs received from onsite devices (such as sensors, mobile traffic surveillance cameras, analysis systems installed to automatically identify the traffic flow in the event of accidents or vehicle breakdown). The system also comprises lane control signs covering all main roads which alert motorists on the road condition well in advance, particularly at junctions and highways. In case of an abrupt congestion, the motorist will be rerouted to alternative roads to avoid congestion.

Al Tayer toured the Traffic Systems Control Center which operates 24/7 where he was briefed by engineer Maitha bin Udai on the components of the system which comprises a giant screen to monitor the traffic flow through 232 cameras mounted at junctions and main roads. He also attended to a briefing about the role of the Center in maintaining effective monitoring of roads network in the Emirate, besides detecting & analyzing traffic incidences such as accidents, and forwarding the details in the shape of traffic messages displayed on the traffic signs to alert the public, or through controlling the sectional time granted to the green light of the light  signals; where the control of the traffic light system will be shifted in the event of traffic accidents and bottlenecks from the auto system to the manual mode in order to ease the traffic flow.

Al Tayer was also briefed on the latest developments of the Dynamic Navigation System (Dalili); an enhanced version of which was launched by the RTA in mid of October last year, and it was the first time for this enhanced version to go outside the domain of the advanced countries. Dalili offers users real time information about congestions, accidents and traffic diversions with a view to easing the mobility of motorists to their destinations. The system is fed by data gathered from about 8000 taxicabs roaming across Dubai Emirate in addition to the Intelligent Traffic Systems spread all over the Emirate. The system is based on the GPS technology, offering live & dynamic information about the traffic movements in all roads of the Emirate.

Explaining the advanced version of Dalili, the Director of Intelligent Traffic Systems Mohammed Al Awadi, said: “It comprises a modern map spanning all the UAE and has about 50 thousand landmarks, tens of 3D models of famous UAE landmarks, and real time traffic information such as bottlenecks, accidents and traffic diversions. Unlike other navigation systems, Dalili computes the optimal route based on the road length but taking into consideration the prevailing traffic conditions of roads involved.”

Upon meeting managers and officials of the Center, Al Tayer stressed the importance of beefing up the percentage of Emiratization, qualifying Emiratis in the administrative & technical fields and enhancing the performance of the Dep’t.

During the event, engineer Maitha bin Udai reviewed the work progress in the Traffic Control Centers Improvement Project saying that the completion rate in the project, which had been undertaken a year and a half ago, had exceeded 50 per cent. Phase I witnessed the completion of gauging the performance level of light signals through studying and analyzing around 24 signalized junctions in urban districts of Dubai Emirate, and during Phase II, which has also been completed, the obstacles facing traffic control centers had been identified and work was gathering pace in implementing solutions to overcome these obstacles.

“Traffic & Roads Agency has upped the operational capabilities of the light signaling system at the Control Centers. It is now possible for the system to cope with the current and projected numbers of signalized junctions. The Center has been equipped with the latest version of analysis system of data received from sensors, and the number of surveillance cameras has jumped from 187 to 232 cameras, following the installation of 45 new cameras. The Agency has fitted Dubai taxicabs with devices to help estimate the journey time and these systems transmit accurate information about the trip time. Such information are used to feed Dalili system with information about the journey time,” added Maitha.
At the end of the tour, Al Tayer expressed his delight with the systems & technologies in place, and called upon the staff of the Center to redouble their efforts and benefit from the modern traffic system technologies which the RTA is keen on utilizing in a bid to offer top quality services.

Traffic Roads Agency To Carry Extensive Improvements Of Light Signals, Traffic Control Center In Dubai

Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of the Traffic and Roads Agency at Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), stated that last December the Agency awarded a contract to an international consultant to upgrade and improve the performance of traffic signals, virtual messaging signs, and the Traffic Control Center in the Emirate.

Maitha pointed out that studies conducted on the roads network performance during 2010, which included traffic surveys and analyses of hundreds of locations throughout the Emirate, revealed that internal and collector roads and traffic overlapping zones provided a good level of service while freeways provided an acceptable level of service.

“As for traffic signals the findings as a whole they are very good compared to the case in the developed countries where the traffic congestion at traffic signals is a common practice. However, in keeping with its vision aimed at providing safe and smooth transport for all, RTA is consistently endeavoring to increase the points of strengths and reduce weaknesses. In this context an international consultant has been commissioned to study the existing situation with regard to traffic signals and the Traffic Control Center with a view to identifying alternatives for further development and improvement”, she explained.

Engineer Maitha added: “Phase I of the project provides for the consultant to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current situation, including the SCOT system which controls more than half of the traffic signals in the Emirate. The consultant will also evaluate the performance of Falcon system which controls the traffic surveillance cameras and virtual messaging signs on the freeways and arterial roads.

“Phase II of the project includes reviewing the best international practices and drawing up general policies for light signals befitting the typical nature of Dubai Emirate. The Consultant’s recommendations will include dozens of policies to be implemented by the Intelligent Traffic Systems Dep’t in the future such as the number of times the timing of the traffic signals is revised in a year, whether RTA to continue to maintain the traffic signals connected to each other across entire zones or provide green waves to specific axes, and whether to apply a different sequence for traffic movements during different peak hours, or adopt the same sequence throughout daytime.

“Phase III of the project requires the Consultant to submit recommendations for further improvement. These recommendations include revising the organizational structure of traffic control centers, preparing new performance processes, manuals and indicators, developing training courses for engineers and operators, and defining the proposed modifications to the Traffic Control Center, including hardware and software. RTA’s Traffic Control Center is one of the most advanced centers of its kind in the Middle East, comprising giant screens displaying traffic accidents and congestions throughout the Emirate using hi-tech electronic traffic systems and software.

“In Phase IV, the Emirate will be divided into several areas where all traffic signals will be connected to each other in each area. Several connection alternatives will be tested and evaluated in conjunction with the current method of connection based on the SCOT system. This phase will also include modifications of the frequencies and timings of the traffic signals.

“In Phase IV RTA’s engineers and operators will be provided with theoretical and practical training besides being offered exposure to work side by side with the Consultant to ensure the optimum transfer of expertise to the RTA. “The last Phase of the project involves evaluating the modifications put in place and concluding findings and lessons to count on for continuous development and improvement,” said engineer Maitha bin Udai in a final remark.

3M Sign Contract With Al-Futtaim Motors To Provide Market-Leading Sun Control Films

3M, the innovations company that invented window tinting, will now handle tinting for all vehicles sold by Al-Futtaim Motors, giving 3M more than a third of the region’s window-tinting market share.

On purchase of a new vehicle at an Al-Futtaim Motors’ Toyota showroom or service centre, buyers will be offered the option of 3M tinting with its market-leading Crystalline Automotive Window Films, which will be completed before customers receive delivery of their new vehicle.

Following the agreement 3M products will be on display at the Al Futtaim Motors’ stand at the Automechanika Middle East Exhibition, which will take place from 25-27 May at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The exhibition unites market leaders from the automotive sport, workshop equipment, tyres and batteries, parts and systems, repair and maintenance, and accessories and tuning industries worldwide.

Kevin Jones, Senior General Manager, After-Sales, Al-Futtaim Motors stated: “3M offers a quality window tinting service that employs the latest technology to reduce the harmful effect of UV rays on passengers and the vehicle itself. We are delighted to offer our customers this high quality service which supports our commitment to offer customers the best products and services and thereby delivering satisfaction at every level of their drive experience.”

Fadi Medlej, Country Business Leader for 3M’s Industry and Transportation division commented, “3M invented the window films concept in 1966, and has since spent millions of dollars developing and enhancing the product based on consumer needs, to ensure it remains a market leader. We are thrilled to have been selected by Al-Futtaim Motors, and look forward to providing even more of the region’s car owners with our market-leading Crystalline window-tinting technology and service.”

The four different tinted versions of the Crystalline Automotive Window Films, which offer different levels of glare reduction, were developed using 3M’s leading nanotechnology and feature a proprietary multilayer technology that combines more than 200 layers, to create a film that is thinner than a Post-it® Note.

3M’s Crystalline Automotive Window Films block out 99.9% of harmful UV rays, with a total Sun Protection Factor (SPF) that exceeds 1700. In total, the film reduces heat gain by as much as 50%, thus reducing the need for AC to keep the car’s driver and passengers cool. This means less fuel needs to be burned and therefore less carbon will be emitted. This is especially important for vehicles such as SUVs that contain more glass, and thus require more AC during the year-round sunshine.

Additionally, by blocking out the bright sunlight, 3M’s Crystalline films help protect car interiors from the destructive ultraviolet rays that can cause fading and deterioration. Developed with anultra-grade polyester, the films allow clear and accurate high definition vision for night driving, while providing an increase in driver comfort; with low reflectivity leaving the driver’s view clear, glare-free and unobstructed with excellent brightness.

In addition to the films, 3M offers a full range of car care solutions for the car enthusiast including paint protection, detailing and polishing products, Scotchgard and matting. 3M recently acquired Mcguire to further enhance the company’s range of auto polish and products.
 

Hospital Build Exhibitors Bring Infection Control Solutions To The UAE

During the last decade, the healthcare industry has recognised that the physical environment of a hospital or clinic is an important resource that can affect all patients. A first-rate healing environment will emphasise excellent clinical quality and one of the most important principles is to create a safe and comfortable environment that meets the patient’s needs. At the Hospital Build Middle East Exhibition & Congress, currently under way in Dubai, industry experts in the field of healthcare facilities engage in detailed discussion of how such an environment can be created at the healthcare facilities in the Middle East.

The construction, operation and management of a new hospital involves a great deal of planning. Cooperation with a multitude of companies, ranging from furniture designers to caterers, is essential. Maintaining a safe environment in hospitals depends not only on the infrastructure, but also the fittings, equipment and materials that are used on the premises. Hospital Build Middle East brings together the entire spectrum of suppliers, manufacturers and designers who can help create a controlled, safe environment were patients can receive treatment.

Nurture, by Steelcase, is a US-based company that uses research driven design and a holistic approach to provide furniture for use in healthcare facilities. In the GCC region, Nurture has engaged in a strategic alliance with Emitac Healthcare Group to provide healthcare solutions to the United Arab Emirates and the wider Middle East region.

“Nurture is using Hospital Build to raise awareness about evidence based design, sustainability and infection control for healthcare in the Middle East. There is a large contingent of design firms at this exhibition and we need to be here to support them and their projects,” said Abdul R Mokayed, Sales Manager – Healthcare Middle East.

“Infection control is a big consideration for any company engaged in producing furniture for healthcare facilities as the closer you get the patient in a hospital environment, the more vital this becomes. At Nurture, we try to limit the amount of seams we use in our upholstery, and use vapour barriers and acrylic surfaces, among other things, to minimise the risk of infection.”

“Nurture has a bold vision to shape and improve the future of healthcare delivery. We concentrate on space and environments and how products within those environments can help make them more comfortable, more efficient and more conducive to the healing process,” said Kyle Williams, Nurture’s Vice President and General Manager.

Graboplast Rt. is also exhibiting at Hospital Build for the first time. This Hungarian floor covering manufacturer specialises in anti-bacterial contract floor covering for hospitals using nano-silver and nanotechnology to eliminate bacteria from the surface of the floor.

Irma Toth, Export Manager, Graboplast, explains: “Hospital construction in the Middle East is expanding rapidly and we feel our product has a place in this growing market. Infection control is a fundamental consideration in hospital design and our use of nano-titandioxide and silver particles eliminates 99 per cent of viral bacteria from hospital floors, significantly reducing the incidence of hospital bugs such as MRSA and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) bacteria.”

Hospital Build Middle East 2010 plays host to a number of other companies specialising in infection control technologies and products. These include industry front-runners such as Berkvens (partner of Buhindi International), Responsive Industries Limited, Method Enterprise and Vescom Dubai producing a range of products including flooring, doors and frames, stainless steel fittings, upholstery and wall coverings that have in-built anti-bacterial or anti-viral properties, or are designed specifically to reduce infection.

Running alongside the Hospital Build Middle East exhibition is a multi-disciplinary congress consisting of eight leading conferences and is designed as an educational platform for senior managers and decision makers at healthcare facilities. The conference program will address healthcare technology applications, hospital build & design, facilities management, investment & finance, human resources in healthcare, healthcare marketing, workflow management, quality, standards and accreditation, and leaders in healthcare.

Organised by IIR Middle East, the team behind Arab Health, the three-day Hospital Build Middle East Exhibition & Congress will continue on 3 June, 2010, from 10.00am to 6.00pm. Trade visitors have unlimited access to the exhibition, and may register their participation any time during the event.

For further information about Hospital Build 2010, please visit www.hospitalbuild-me.com or call +971 4 336 5161.
 

Groundbreaking 3D Technology, Next Generation Motion Control Experiences, And An Unrivaled Game Line Up At For PlayStation® At E3 2010

PlayStation Division, Sony Gulf FZE announced groundbreaking new products and services that further establish PlayStation’s leadership and cutting edge position in home entertainment. Since last autumn, the PlayStation business has experienced unprecedented growth, fueling huge momentum into the new year. The company is poised once again to deliver consumers unrivaled entertainment options this year with the latest in 3D technology, the introduction of the PlayStation®Move and games, plus blockbuster titles for PlayStation®3 (PS3™) including inFAMOUS™ 2, Twisted Metal™, Gran Turismo®5, LittleBigPlanet™ 2 and Killzone™ 3.

Stereoscopic 3D
It has also been announced that some of the company’s biggest titles will be available to consumers this year in stereoscopic 3D, including MotorStorm®: Apocalypse, Killzone®3, The Sly Raccoon Collection and Gran Turismo®5. Popular franchises from the publishing community will also make their way into consumer homes in stereoscopic 3D on PlayStation 3, such as Crysis 2 from Electronic Arts, Mortal Kombat 9 from Warner Brothers, Ubisoft’s Shaun White Skateboarding and Ghost Recon: Future Soldier, as well as Tron 2: Evolution The Game from Disney. Unlike any other console on the market today, all 35.7 million PS3 units globally are capable of playing stereoscopic 3D games as a result of a recent firmware update. Four PS3 titles offering stereoscopic 3D gaming experiences are currently available for download from the PlayStation Network for USD 29.99, they are PAIN, a single level demo of MotorStorm® Pacific Rift, Super Stardust™ HD and WipEout® HD. The PS3 system will make stereoscopic 3D Blu-ray Disc movie support available later this year.

PlayStation Move
PlayStation Division, Sony Gulf FZE also announced that it will release the PlayStation®Move motion controller for PS3 on September 15th within the Middle East, at AED 169 (RRP) for the Move motion controller. The new PlayStation®Move navigation controller, which can be used alongside the motion controller for intuitive navigation of in-game characters and objects, will also be available on the same day for AED129 (RRP). In addition, Sony will release a PlayStation Move Starter Pack for AED 249 (RRP), comprising a PlayStation Move motion controller, PlayStation®Eye camera and PlayStation Move starter disc, including demos of many of the Move games available at launch and beyond. PlayStation Move titles include:

First Party Move Required Launch Titles:
Kung Fu Rider
Start the Party!
Sports Champions
EyePet Move Edition
Draw
echochrome ii
Tumble

First Party Move Enabled Titles: (Coming Soon)
SOCOM Special Forces
LittleBigPlanet2
Killzone3
Heavy Rain Move Edition
The Sly Collection
SingStar Dance
Hustle Kings
Pain

Third Party Titles:
Time Crisis: Razing Storm
Toy Story 3
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11

PlayStation Network
With more than 50 million registered accounts worldwide, PlayStation Network is today one of the largest network entertainment platforms and continues to evolve with newly added content and services such as Vidzone, the free on-demand streaming music service, the video delivery service and the upcoming MUBI – a movie service that takes you beyond the mainstream and deep in the world of independent, international and classic .Today, the company also unveiled PlayStation®Plus, a new subscription service offering users even more options in how they consume content on PlayStation Network. PlayStation Plus will be available starting June 29 at a yearly fee of USD 64.99 and is designed to offer PlayStation Network’s power users added value, access and convenience, such as special features that include discounts on the PlayStation Store content, free and exclusive access to select games, full game trials, and much more. PlayStation Network will continue to add new exclusive games to its catalogue this year, including PixelJunk™ Shooter 2, Eat Them and Dead Nation.