Traffic Technology International | November 2022
Sensys Networks has introduced an all-new wireless vehicle detection sensor, FlexMag Mini, which installs in a fraction of the time of inductive loops – just two to five minutes per sensor. It has also been ruggedized to last longer than ever.
In-ground detection is known for its accuracy, identifying vehicles precisely in each lane without the challenges of occlusion or weather interference. Inductive loops, which have set the standard for accurate vehicle detection, require lengthy lane closures and the cutting up of the pavement to install or replace. And in locations where advance detection is needed, agencies must dig long trenches to connect loops back to the traffic cabinet.
FlexMag Mini offers transportation agencies the benefit of accurate detection for any application but with greater flexibility. The wireless design means no trenching or saw cuts are necessary, making placement further from intersections much easier.
Small footprint, big time savings
At 2.6in (67mm) in diameter, FlexMag Mini is even smaller than the older generation sensors, which measured 4in (10cm) across when installed, and much smaller than loops. The result is a sensor that can be installed with a drill and a small packet of epoxy, drastically reducing installation time to just two to five minutes each.
“We had speed and efficiency in mind when designing this new sensor,” says Brian Fuller, president and COO of Sensys Networks. “We understand that agencies want to be in and out of the roadway to reduce impact to traffic and for worker safety. FlexMag Mini is so fast to install, the job can be done with rolling closures.”
FLEXMAG MINI OFFERS TRANSPORTATION AGENCIES THE BENEFIT OF ACCURATE DETECTION FOR ANY APPLICATION BUT WITH GREATER FLEXIBILITY
1- FlexMag Mini is molded into this epoxy plug and then installed in the roadway in just 2-5 minutes
Upgraded durability
Sensys Networks pioneered wireless detection nearly two decades ago and has since gained invaluable experience and invested extensively in R&D to make continual improvements to the entire product line. FlexMag Mini represents the culmination of millions of hours of sensor operations in punishing real world environments around the globe. The result is a more robust sensor made to withstand extreme conditions.
“We introduced the original wireless FlexMag to replace vulnerable loops, which break too easily,” adds Bill Weber, VP of sales and marketing, Americas. “And FlexMag Mini includes our upgraded battery and radios in a smaller and stronger package, resulting in performance and durability at a new level.”
Transportation studies have shown that FlexMag already lasts 30% longer than loops on average
2. FlexMag Mini was re-engineered from the inside out to be even more durable
and just 2.6in (67mm) in diameter
Transportation studies have shown that FlexMag already lasts 30% longer than loops on average. Now FlexMag Mini has been re- engineered from the inside out with the aim of improving that advantage. The circuitry and radio are coated to protect against moisture. The battery is one of several cell configurations and manufacturers that were evaluated and tested exhaustively to find the longest lifecycle.
All these components are potted inside an inner silicone cup, then secured inside the hard outer case, and finally molded into a solid epoxy plug that can be inserted directly into the drilled hole in the pavement with a small amount of epoxy. These redundant layers of protection offer considerable toughness against water intrusion and impacts from vehicle traffic.
