In a significant stride towards enhancing road safety, researchers from Yogyakarta State University have unveiled a groundbreaking solar-powered safety lamp integrated with a proximity sensor. This innovative system aims to mitigate the dangers posed by blind spots on roads, a pressing issue in Indonesia where traffic accidents are alarmingly high. In 2019 alone, Indonesia recorded over 107,500 accident cases, highlighting the urgent need for effective safety measures.
The research, led by Yanuar Agung Fadlullah from the Department of Mechanical Engineering Education, employs a design-based research approach to create a smart safety light warning system that leverages solar energy. “Our goal is to not only improve visibility in blind spots but to also harness renewable energy to create a sustainable solution for traffic safety,” Fadlullah stated. This dual focus on safety and sustainability positions the project as a potential game-changer in the energy sector.
The prototype developed in this study is equipped with an HC-SR04 sensor capable of detecting objects up to 350 cm away, triggering warning lights and sirens to alert drivers. The integration of solar panels ensures that the system can operate for up to 45 hours without the need for external charging, making it an efficient and reliable option for remote or poorly lit areas. Furthermore, the inclusion of a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) sensor optimizes power usage by regulating the lighting based on ambient light conditions, ensuring that energy consumption is kept to a minimum.
This research not only emphasizes the importance of innovative safety technologies but also highlights the commercial potential for solar energy applications in urban infrastructure. As cities worldwide grapple with the dual challenges of increasing traffic and the need for sustainable solutions, the development of such systems could lead to broader adoption of solar-powered safety technologies. “By integrating renewable energy into traffic management solutions, we can pave the way for smarter, safer cities,” Fadlullah added.
The implications of this research extend beyond Indonesia, as similar challenges are faced globally. With increasing urbanization and the corresponding rise in traffic incidents, the commercial viability of solar-powered safety systems could attract investment from both public and private sectors, providing a much-needed boost to the energy market.
This pioneering work was published in the ‘Pakistan Journal of Engineering & Technology,’ reflecting the growing interest in innovative engineering solutions to real-world problems. For more information about the research and the lead author, visit Yogyakarta State University.
