Green Light for the Environment: Sustainability at Every Intersection
A couple weeks ago, we celebrated the production of the 500,000th unit of our FUTURA traffic light , a milestone that underscored the quality of this innovative product. We also shared insights into how our signal heads are carefully manufactured, highlighting the importance of eco-friendly practices. Now, we want to continue our journey along the entire value chain, emphasizing our commitment to sustainability at every stage.
So let’s shift our focus to the use-phase of our traffic lights and let us introduce the 12V/24V VDC Low Energy LED modules – our state-of-the-art inserts for traffic lights which are integrated units composed of multiple LEDs arranged together to produce a specific signal light (red, amber, green or white).
Versatility is strength in disguise
The aforementioned FUTURA line is just one example of the many signal head models that can utilize these versatile modules. They are also compatible with a range of other products across our portfolio, including the COMBIA product family . Beyond our own offerings, these modules can be installed in signal heads from other manufacturers as well, ensuring seamless integration across diverse systems. This flexibility makes them an innovative solution that not only enhances compatibility but also reduces the total cost of ownership for the road operator.
The most important component of a traffic light is, of course, the electronics (driver and light source), so we focused on providing this excellent solution that will please both customers and the environment:
Efficiency turns good into great...
The new Low Energy LED insert brings a range of advancements that set it apart from its predecessor. Unlike the previous model, where components were distributed, this updated version integrates both the light source and the power supply onto a single PCB board, resulting in a more compact and efficient design. Another improvement is the ability to customize operation voltage, switch-on/ switch-off voltage, LED current, LED failure behavior and dimming settings, which offers greater flexibility to users. Dimming can now be achieved either through a dim-by-wire system or by adjusting the input voltage, making the process smoother and more adaptable to different needs.
In terms of power, the new insert allows users to configure settings anywhere between 5W down to an incredibly low amount of under 1W, saving energy and therefore improving the carbon footprint during operation. The energy-saving effect over time is enormous, mainly due to the fact that the modules have a service life of up to 20 years.
Depending on the light intensity prescribed by the legislation of the respective country, the power input can be easily adjusted. The input voltage range has also been expanded, now accommodating between 10V and 29V DC, which enhances compatibility with various power sources.
In addition to its energy-saving features, the new insert also prioritizes safety. The model ensures secure operation through redundant internal monitoring managed by microcontrollers. This comprehensive approach combines flexible power management with robust safety measures, adhering to EN 50556:2019 industry standards for reliable performance.
...making the LED-modules one solution for a wide range of applications
The unit offers a wide range of applications in traffic signalling, proving its adaptability and efficiency across both temporary and permanent setups:
In temporary applications, such as traffic signals at roadworks, the module shines as an autonomous solution. Here, it is powered by an external 12V to 24V battery, paired with a control unit to manage the system independently. Especially when running a traffic light by battery, the lowest possible power consumption is essential to make it last as long as possible. For extended use and added sustainability, an optional solar panel can be integrated, making it a flexible and climate-friendly choice for temporary traffic management.
For permanent installations, such as standard road traffic lights, the module is typically used in a configuration where three low energy LED units are integrated within a single traffic light system. These setups are powered by an external 12V to 24V supply connected to a control unit, ensuring reliable and continuous operation.
The 12V/24V Low Energy LED modules are highly flexible and adaptable, allowing easy installation in SWARCO and other manufacturers' signal heads, making them suitable for various applications like traffic lights or public transport signals. Designed with SWARCO's extensive expertise, they provide excellent brightness, clarity, and visibility, even in adverse conditions – enabling The Better Way. Every Day.