Making Traffic Lights Safe

The Core Problem: Sun Phantom and Veiling Gla

The primary issue MicroLouvre® solves is a phenomenon known as "sun phantom" or "false phantom." This occurs when the sun is at a specific angle behind a traffic signal. The sun's intense light reflects off the smooth, domed lens of the signal, making it appear as if the lamp is illuminated even when it's off.

• A driver approaching from the east in the early morning might see a red signal that isn't actually lit because the sun is reflecting off it.

• A driver approaching from the west in the late afternoon might see a false green "go" signal, creating an extremely dangerous situation where they might proceed into an intersection illegally, risking a catastrophic collision.

Even when it doesn't create a full false signal, intense sun glare can wash out the true signal, making it difficult for drivers to distinguish which light is active, leading to hesitation and sudden, unsafe braking.

Why This Makes Traffic Signals Essential and Safer

1. Prevents Dangerous False Signals:
This is the most critical safety benefit. By eliminating "sun phantom," MicroLouvre® ensures that drivers only see a signal light when it is actually illuminated. This prevents drivers from running red lights they mistakenly believe are green or stopping for non-existent red lights, drastically reducing the risk of angle collisions (T-bone accidents), which are often severe.

2. Enhances Contrast and Legibility in Glare:
Even when it doesn't cause a full false signal, general sun glare can make real signals look dim and washed out. MicroLouvre® dramatically improves the contrast between the lit signal and the background lens. The active light appears brighter, sharper, and more definitive against the dark, non-reflective background, making it easier to see from a longer distance.

3. Improves Safety in Adverse Conditions:
The benefits extend beyond just sun glare. MicroLouvre® is also highly effective at reducing glare from:

• Headlights: Especially from high-beam lights at night or during twilight.

• Fog and Rain: Wet conditions can exacerbate reflective glare, which MicroLouvre® mitigates.

• General Sky Glow: The bright sky around a signal can make it harder to see.

4. Provides Consistency and Reliability:
Drivers can trust that the signal they see is the real signal. This eliminates confusion and hesitation, leading to smoother, more predictable traffic flow and quicker, more confident decision-making at intersections.