1.  Introduction

The function of electronic audible traffic signals (eATS) is to provide indication to the visually impaired persons (VIPs) on the prevailing pedestrian signals.  The eATS currently installed on street is capable of responding automatically to the ambient noise level.  Its output is automatically higher under noisy environment and lower if the environment is quiet.  The eATS can provide clear audio messages to the VIPs while minimizing the noise nuisance to the nearby residents.  The eATS is also equipped with a tactile unit which indicates the prevailing pedestrian signal states by means of different vibrating patterns.

2.  Components of eATS

The eATS comprises :-

(i) Audible unit; and
(ii) Tactile unit with or without push button function

3. Audible Unit

• Mounted under pedestrian signal lights
• Emits audible signal to indicate the prevailing pedestrian signal states

4. Tactile Unit

• A yellow box mounted at elbow level of the pedestrian signal pole
• A vibrating device located at the bottom of the unit
• Different vibrating pattern to indicate prevailing states of pedestrian signal
• Directional arrow to indicate the direction of the pedestrian crossing
• The tactile unit is provided for the use of VIPs
• For crossings with tactile unit only without push button, 'Green man' will appear automatically according to pre-determined sequence and time

Tactile unit	Vibrating device with directional arrow

5. Tactile unit with push button function

• In addition to the tactile unit, it provides pedestrian push button function
• When the push button is pressed, visual and audible acknowledgement signals will be displayed and emitted by the unit. The traffic signal controller will give the green signal to the pedestrian as soon as possible
• The push button is for the use of all pedestrians, not solely for VIPs

6. New generation eATS

• The Transport Department is now carrying a trial of two types of new generation of eATS in selected signalised crossings
• The new generation eATS are equipped with the following enhanced features: 1) touch-less pushbutton, 2) light illumination, 3) tactile map, 4) voice message of crossing location and 5) automatic increase in sound level upon detection of arrival of VIPs (using mobile app or token) while operating with reduced sound level at night

Two types of new generation eATS
without push button*	with push button*
with push button	without push button

* Devices currently under trial