The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) takes an active approach in collecting and leveraging highway data. DelDOT utilizes Automatic Traffic Recorders (ATR), including count stations, across its highway network. DelDOT use these count stations to transform raw vehicle data into planning for long-term infrastructure upgrades and funding. Because of this, DelDOT depends on its count stations to operate 24 hours/day, 365 days/year, providing continuous counts. This requires an ‘always-on’ status even during interruptions to utility power. As a result, a reliable battery system for the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) system is critical at each highway count station.
Econolite recently collaborated with DelDOT to enhance the reliability and sustainability of power at a strategic highway count station. As part of this initiative, Econolite supplied and installed a Tech Power ZX Super Capacitor system. This technology is specifically designed to provide smarter and more dependable backup power in environments where continuous data collection is essential.
Project Snapshot
| Agency | Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) |
| Project Type | Super Capacitor UPS Deployment |
| Scope | Installation of a Tech Power ZX Super Capacitor system and integration with a solar energy solution |
| Key Technologies | Tech Power ZX Super Capacitor, Photovoltaic Panel Array, Morningstar Inverter/Charge Controller |
Key Project Outcomes
- Enhanced uptime and data integrity for the highway count station
- Reduced maintenance requirements compared to conventional battery-backed systems
- Improved resilience against power disturbances and outages
- Sustainable operation through integration with solar energy
- Continuous traffic data collection for long-term infrastructure planning and funding
This project demonstrates Econolite’s continued commitment to providing innovative, reliable, and environmentally responsible solutions that support modern transportation infrastructure.
Project Overview
The deployment addressed the need for resilient, maintenance-efficient power infrastructure at remote or roadside locations. Unlike traditional battery-based systems, the ZX Super Capacitor leverages advanced capacitor technology. This layout allows it to deliver rapid charge and discharge cycles, extended service life, and improved performance in extreme temperature conditions. Therefore, it is particularly well-suited for transportation field applications, where reliability and minimal maintenance are key priorities.
To further support sustainable and off-grid operation, the system was seamlessly integrated with a solar energy solution. Specifically, this infrastructure includes a photovoltaic panel array and a Morningstar inverter/charge controller. This hybrid configuration allows the station to harness renewable energy as its primary power source. At the same time, it ensures uninterrupted operation during periods of low solar generation or transient power events.
This effort aligns with broader safety initiatives such as video detection and safety enhancement projects that improve multimodal operations.
Deployment and Installation
Econolite was responsible for deploying the Tech Power ZX Super Capacitor system and integrating it with existing traffic monitoring infrastructure. These hardware upgrades ensure seamless operation with current data collection systems. In addition, the solar components were integrated to create a reliable and self-sufficient power grid for the remote site.
Similar large-scale deployments, such as traffic signal system programs, demonstrate the importance of maintaining and upgrading intersection technology.
Technology Used in This Project
- Traffic Detection Systems
- Traffic Signal Controllers
- Traffic Cabinets & Signal Infrastructure
- Installation & Field Services
Operational Benefits
The deployment of the advanced super capacitor and solar solution provides DelDOT with several key benefits. For example, the system delivers:
- Continuous operation of the highway count station during power disruptions
- Lower operational costs due to minimal maintenance requirements
- Hassle-free integration of renewable energy and battery backup technology
- Reliable vehicle data collection for infrastructure upgrades and funding decisions
- Dependable field performance under extreme temperature variations
Moreover, these power upgrades support smarter field data collection strategies. Advanced systems such as traffic data analytics platforms can further enhance system performance and planning.
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