Patent Publication Number: US-2023137923-A1

Title: Traffic control system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/224,333, filed on Apr. 7, 2021, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/007,789, filed on Apr. 9, 2020. The entire disclosures of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present technology relates to traffic control devices, more particularly, to automated traffic control devices. 
     INTRODUCTION 
     This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art. 
     Traffic control devices can include markers, signs, and signal devices used to inform, guide, and control traffic, including pedestrians, motor vehicle drivers and bicyclists. These devices are usually placed adjacent, over or along the highways, roads, traffic facilities, and other public areas that require traffic control. Such traffic control devices can range from passive signage to active lamps and signals. 
     Traffic control devices can protect workers in various settings, including work event settings on roadways, bridges, tunnels, utilities, and other infrastructure from various hazards outside and inside of the work event zone. Hazards can include damages or injuries resulting from excessive speeding, being struck by an object, moving equipment, and or accidents from distracted drivers. However, traditional traffic control devices can have shortcomings related to the following: 
     SAFETY FOR WORKERS: In event zones, especially on two lane roads, workers are often used to help control the flow of traffic. These workers stand on the road, exposed to traffic, with signs and communication devices working together to stop and control one or more lanes of traffic. In today&#39;s world of distracted driving, these workers are at increased risk of being struck by an oncoming vehicle. 
     COMMUNICATION: Part of the requirement of work event zones is that signage must be displayed at a specified distance before the start of the event zone and communicate the hazard quickly. Undesirably, traditional traffic control devices can be limited in displaying one particular type of message (e.g., a stop sign can only be used to stop traffic). 
     EMERGENCY RESPONSE TIME: There are always going to be accidents on the highways which require getting emergency response vehicles to the scene, and setting up external traffic control which requires time, equipment, and people. Reducing response times can save lives. 
     FIXED EVENT ZONES: Traditional event zones are fixed and do not move as the work progress along the road, where workers are hence required to physically move the traffic control devices as the event zone progresses. Since setting up event zones can be labor intensive, some construction companies will section off large areas of the road that might be worked on during the course of a day, week, or even longer. These event zones are longer than required and negatively impact traffic more than what is necessary. 
     ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Traditional event zones can require trucks to assist in setting up and tearing down event zones. Trucks are driven by workers to the sign locations, stopped while idling, so the sign can be put up or taken down, moved to the next area, and repeated. 
     ERGONOMICS: Traditional event zones typically require workers to be outside for prolong periods, standing on hard pavement in the blistering heat or shivering in cold. The ergonomics of lifting and moving traffic control devices also poses an ergonomic risk to road workers. 
     LABOR: It can be very difficult to hire and retain people, especially for very physical and demanding jobs that can include uncomfortable working conditions. 
     COST: The rising cost of road maintenance impacts everyone, as taxpayers ultimately pay for road maintenance. It is very costly to maintain and construct roads. 
     These inefficiencies have challenged engineers and planners to design traffic control devices that permit an optimal flow of vehicles, while militating against the aforementioned issues. 
     There is a continuing need for a traffic controlling system and method that can automatically position a traffic controller. Desirably, such a traffic controlling system and method can be modular to implement multiple traffic control options. 
     SUMMARY 
     In concordance with the instant disclosure, a traffic controlling system and method that can automatically position a traffic controller, and which can be modular, has been surprisingly discovered. 
     In certain embodiments, traffic controlling systems are provided that can include a platform, a sensor, and a control unit. The platform can have a top side, a locomotion system, and a receiving area. The locomotion system can be configured to move the platform into a preselected position. The receiving area can be disposed on the top side and configured to receive a traffic indicator module. The sensor can be configured to generate location data of the platform. The control unit can be in communication with the sensor and the locomotion system. The control unit can be configured to receive the location data. The control unit can also be configured to determine if the platform is in the preselected position. The control unit can be further configured to execute instructions including the pathway that the platform needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected position. 
     In certain embodiments, traffic controlling systems are provided that can include another platform configured in a similar fashion to the platform. The locomotion system of the another platform can be configured to move the another platform into a preselected warning distance. The warning distance can be defined as a gap between the another platform and the platform. The sensor can be configured to generate location data of one of the platform and the another platform. The instructions can also include a warning pathway that the another platform needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected warning distance. 
     In certain embodiments, ways of using such traffic controlling systems are provided. The sensor can generate location data of the platform. The sensor can send the location data to the control unit. The control unit can receive the location data. The control unit can determine if the platform is in the preselected position by comparing the preselected position with the location data. The control unit can execute the instructions including the pathway that the platform needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected position. 
     It is also possible that one or more platforms can be configured to be automatically deployed to a set location. One or more platforms can also be configured to be automatically positioned in a preselected location until called back if the event zone is fixed. If the event zone is a moving event zone, the platform(s) can be configured to be positioned at a preselected distance away from the moving event zone based on references points disposed in the event zone. The reference points can include trucks, equipment, workers, flags, markers, GPS locations, etc. Or it could be programmed to run specific operations, paths, or move things from point to point. 
     The platform can have a plurality of traffic indicator modules which can relate to traffic communication tools that can include road signs, flags, flashing lights, LED monitors, traffic lights, stop signs, etc. These can permit the platform to convey the required event zone notification to traffic via signs, signals, lights, flashing arrows, message boards, and or other communications means. The platform can control traffic of roads by replacing the workers with mounted communication devices and connected stoplights with the capability of communicating to a host vehicle and or additional traffic platforms. 
     The platform can be used with a fixed event zone or a movable event zone. Traditionally, event zones are fixed and are set up for the work schedules for the entire day. Also, the advanced notification signs were fixed. Undesirably, the workers were exposed to danger. By using the platform, signage and stop lights can be mounted to a moving device, set to hold a fixed position and or stay at the preselected distance away from reference points within the event zone. This can allow the event zone to be smaller and still be safe by moving the signage with the event zone, thus shortening and improving the flow of traffic. 
     The platform can be designed to create flexible, safe event zones and be automatically retrieved and/or picked up to return to the maintenance garage safely. By utilizing the platform in conjunction with other technology, workers can be reduced or completely removed from the road, which can dramatically improve worker safety and cost savings. 
     The plurality of modules can also include sensors that gather data. Non-limiting examples of the data can include traffic patterns, traffic density, road quality, weather conditions, etc. Other modules could perform various functions of road maintenance, such as air blow off, vacuuming, and other tasks. 
     Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. 
    
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
       The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  1    is a top perspective view of a traffic controlling system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a platform having a locomotion system, a sensor, and a control unit; 
         FIG.  2    is a top plan view of the traffic controlling system shown in  FIG.  1   , showing a receiving area having a plurality of apertures; 
         FIG.  3    is a top perspective view of the traffic controlling system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, including a traffic light module; 
         FIG.  4    is a front elevational view of the traffic controlling system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, including a stop sign module; 
         FIG.  5    is a right side elevational view of the traffic controlling system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, including an emergency module; 
         FIG.  6    is a top perspective view of the traffic controlling system disposed adjacent to an event zone, where the platform includes the traffic light module and another platform includes a warning module; 
         FIG.  7    is a schematic illustration of the traffic controlling system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing an interaction between the sensor, the control unit, and the locomotion system; 
         FIG.  8    is a schematic illustration of the traffic controlling system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing an interaction between a software platform, the control unit, and the locomotion system; 
         FIG.  9    is a flowchart illustrating a method of using the traffic controlling system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a step of determining if the platform is in a preselected position by the control unit; and 
         FIG.  10    is a flowchart illustrating a method of using the traffic controlling system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a step of determining if the another platform is in a preselecting warning distance. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word “substantially” in describing the broadest scope of the technology. “About” when applied to numerical values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by “about” and/or “substantially” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” and/or “substantially” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters. 
     All documents, including patents, patent applications, and scientific literature cited in this detailed description are incorporated herein by reference, unless otherwise expressly indicated. Where any conflict or ambiguity may exist between a document incorporated by reference and this detailed description, the present detailed description controls. 
     Although the open-ended term “comprising,” as a synonym of non-restrictive terms such as including, containing, or having, is used herein to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments may alternatively be described using more limiting terms such as “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of.” Thus, for any given embodiment reciting materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components, or process steps excluding additional materials, components or processes (for consisting of) and excluding additional materials, components or processes affecting the significant properties of the embodiment (for consisting essentially of), even though such additional materials, components or processes are not explicitly recited in this application. For example, recitation of a composition or process reciting elements A, B and C specifically envisions embodiments consisting of, and consisting essentially of, A, B and C, excluding an element D that may be recited in the art, even though element D is not explicitly described as being excluded herein. 
     As referred to herein, all compositional percentages are by weight of the total composition, unless otherwise specified. Disclosures of ranges are, unless specified otherwise, inclusive of endpoints and include all distinct values and further divided ranges within the entire range. Thus, for example, a range of “from A to B” or “from about A to about B” is inclusive of A and of B. Disclosure of values and ranges of values for specific parameters (such as amounts, weight percentages, etc.) are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values useful herein. It is envisioned that two or more specific exemplified values for a given parameter may define endpoints for a range of values that may be claimed for the parameter. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that Parameter X may have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 1-10, or 2-9, or 3-8, it is also envisioned that Parameter X may have other ranges of values including 1-9, 1-8, 1-3, 1-2, 2-10, 2-8, 2-3, 3-10, 3-9, and so on. 
     When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. 
     Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments. 
     Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature&#39;s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  1 - 6   , a traffic controlling system  100  is shown. The traffic controlling system  100  can include a platform  102 , a sensor  104 , and a control unit  106 . The platform  102  can have a top side  108 , a locomotion system  110 , and a receiving area  112 , as shown in  FIG.  2   . In certain examples, the platform  102  can include multiple sides, including the top side  108 , a rear side  114 , a front side  116 , a left side  118 , and a right side  120 . However, it should be appreciated that a skilled artisan can select different shapes for the platform  102 , within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The locomotion system  110  can be configured to move the platform  102  into a preselected position  122 . Now referring to  FIG.  6   , the preselected position  122  can be a location adjacent to an event zone  124  that is chosen by the user. In some instances, the preselected position  122  can be inside the event zone  124 . The event zone  124  can be a construction site, a car accident, a road closure, an intersection used for crowd control, event traffic management, and including other environments in which traffic control is desired. The event zone  124  can also be any other traffic-related event. In certain examples, the event zone  124  can be a moving event zone  124 . The moving event zone  124  can be configured to move after a particular action. For example, the moving event zone  124  can be a construction site that is configured to move along a road as work is completed. Desirably, this can facilitate more efficient road work by allowing only the portion of the road that is presently being worked on to be closed instead of an entire stretch of road. 
     Non-limiting examples of the locomotion system  110  can include wheels, tracks, treads, and rotary wings. In certain examples, the locomotion system  110  can include a first wheel  126 , a second wheel  128 , a third wheel  130 , and a fourth wheel  132 , as shown in  FIG.  2   . Desirably, the locomotion system  110  can permit the platform  102  to be moved to the preselected position  122  without having to be manually moved to the preselected position  122  by hand. The traffic controlling system  100  can also include a power source (not shown). The power source can be in communication with the locomotion system  110  and be configured to power the locomotion system  110 . Non-limiting examples of the power source can include a battery, a generator, and electromagnetic power transfer that can power an electric motor or other power transfer means to drive the locomotion system  110 . However, it should be appreciated that a person skilled in the art can employ different technologies for the locomotion system  110  for the traffic controlling system  100 , as desired. 
     While referencing  FIGS.  3 - 6   , the receiving area  112  can be configured to receive a traffic indicator module  134 . The traffic indicator module  134  can be configured to communicate traffic hazards and traffic conditions. Non-limiting examples of the traffic indicator module  134  can include road signs, flags, flashing lights, monitors and various types of active displays, traffic lights, emergency lights, stop signs, and other traffic signs or indicators. In certain examples, the traffic indicator module  134  can be at least one of a traffic light module  136 , a stop sign module  138 , a warning module  140 , and an emergency module  142 . Now referring to  FIGS.  3  and  6   , the traffic light module  136  can include traffic lights  144  to control the flow of traffic. The stop sign module  138  can include a stop sign  146  that can indicate to drivers that they must come to a complete stop momentarily, as shown in  FIG.  4   . With reference to  FIG.  6   , the warning module  140  can include a warning sign  148  that can indicate the presence, nature, and/or distance of the event zone  124 . As shown in  FIG.  5   , the emergency module  142  can include an emergency light  150  that can be used to signify that a driver is approaching an event involving emergency services, such as a car accident. This can include flashing the emergency light at a set interval. It should be appreciated that one skilled in the art can select different traffic indicators for the traffic indicator module  134 , within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In certain examples, the receiving area  112  can be configured to receive road maintenance modules (not shown). The road maintenance modules can be configured to perform various tasks necessary to maintain the upkeep on roads. Non-limiting examples can include air blow modules and vacuuming modules. Further examples can be found in U.S. Ser. No. 17/189,841 to Hendricks, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. It should be appreciated that a skilled artisan can employ different technologies for the road maintenance modules, as desired. 
     Now referring to  FIGS.  1 - 2   , in certain examples, the receiving area  112  includes a plurality of apertures  152 . Each of the plurality of apertures  152  can be configured to receive a fastener to connect the traffic indicator module  134  to the receiving area  112  of the platform  102 . This can permit the user to easily connect or disconnect the traffic indicator module  134  from the platform  102 . Advantageously, the user can connect the traffic indicator module  134  to the platform  102 , according to the given task. For example, if the platform  102  is going to be used to control a flow of traffic, then the user can connect the traffic light module  136  to the platform  102  via the receiving area  112 , as shown in  FIG.  6   . It should be appreciated that although the plurality of apertures  152  has shown to be useful, a skilled artisan can employ different receiving means for the receiving area  112 , as desired. For example, the receiving means can include brackets, adhesives, quick release couplings, etc. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  1 - 6   , the platform  102  can also include a handle  154  and at least one safety light  156 . The handle  154  can be configured to be used as a gripping point for the platform  102 . Desirably, the user can grip the handle  154  to pick up the platform  102  for easy transportation. In certain examples, the handle  154  can be disposed on at least one of the left side  118  and the right side  120 . It should be appreciated that one skilled in the art can scale the number of handles  154 , within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The safety light  156  can be configured to illuminate the surroundings and/or act as a marker or strobe light. Desirably, the safety light  156  can be used in combination with a camera to capture images and videos of objects and the environment even in the dark. In addition, the safety light  156  can be used to alert traffic to specific events, like the event zone  124 . In certain examples, the safety light  156  can be disposed on the top side of platform adjacent to the front side  116 . It should be appreciated that a person skilled in the art can employ the safety light  156  for different functions, as desired. 
     As shown in  FIG.  6   , the traffic controlling system  100  can include another platform  103 . In certain instances, the another platform  103  can be identical to function and/or structure to the platform  102 . It should be appreciated that any components, features, functions of the platform  102  can be applied in the same fashion to the another platform  103 . While not shown, the present technology contemplates additional platforms, including a third or fourth platform, and so on. Again, these additional platforms can include any components, features, functions of the platform  102  as further identified herein. Like or related structures of the platform  102  and the another platform  103  are shown with the same reference numbers for the purpose of clarity. 
     The locomotion system  110  of the another platform  103  can be further configured to move the another platform  103  into a preselected warning distance  158 . While still referring to  FIG.  6   , the preselected warning distance  158  can be defined as a gap between the platform  102  and the another platform  103 . Desirably, the preselected warning distance  158  can give a driver time to be aware that the driver is approaching the event zone  124 , so the driver can be prepared to brake if necessary. It should be appreciated that the preselected warning distance  158  can also be used to warn drivers of other approaching events. A nonlimiting example, can include a car accident. In addition, it should be appreciated that the locomotion system  110  of the platform  102  can be likewise configured to move the platform  102  to the preselected warning distance  158 . 
     In certain examples, the traffic indicator module  134  of the platform  102  can be at least one of the traffic light module  136  and the stop sign module  138  and the traffic indicator module  134  of the another platform  103  can be the warning module  140 , as shown in  FIG.  6   . This configuration can be helpful in controlling traffic around the event zone  124 . In particular, the platform  102  can be positioned in the preselected position  122  adjacent to the event zone  124 , while the another platform  103  can be positioned at the preselected warning distance  158 . Advantageously, this can permit the platform  102  to control the flow of traffic by shifting traffic to the opposite lane, around the event zone  124 , while the another platform  103  puts approaching drivers on notice that they can be stopped by the platform  102 , depending on the traffic conditions. It should be appreciated that one skilled in the art can employ different configurations for the platform  102  and the another platform  103 , within the scope of this disclosure. 
     With reference to  FIG.  7   , one or more sensors  104  can be utilized by the traffic controlling system  100  to generate various types of data, including traffic-related information and/or location data. In certain examples, the sensor  104  can include a plurality of sensors  104 . The sensor  104  can be configured to generate at least one of traffic-related information and a location data. The traffic-related information can include traffic patterns, traffic density, road quality, weather conditions, etc. Other types of traffic-related data can be included with the traffic-related information. In certain examples, the traffic-related information can be used to optimize the positioning and repositioning of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . For instance, the traffic-related information can include the location of a pothole. The location of the pothole can then be used by the traffic controlling system  100  to reroute the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  around the pothole. In another example, the traffic-related information can include a number of approaching vehicles or can account for a number or length of queued vehicles. The traffic controlling system  100  can use the number of approaching vehicles in determining when a sufficient opportunity to position and reposition the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  occurs, switch signal, and/or warn of certain conditions. 
     The location data can include information that can be used to approximate the location of at least one of the platform  102 , the another platform  103 , and the event zone  124 . The location data can include geolocation data and time information. The geolocation data and time information can be utilized to approximate the location of at least one of the platform  102 , the another platform  103 , and the event zone  124  at a given time. A skilled artisan can select other types of data to be included in the location data, as desired. It should be appreciated that the sensor  104  can utilize other technologies to generate the location data of one of at least one of the platform  102  and the another platform  103 . Non-limiting examples can include radar, lidar, lasers, and sonar. 
     Now referring to  FIGS.  1  and  3 - 4   , the sensor  104  can include area scanner  160 , a camera  162 , and a navigation unit  164 . The area scanner  160  can be disposed on the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . In certain examples, the area scanner  160  include a distance detector and be configured to measure the distance from a detected object with the area scanner  160 . For example, the area scanner  160  could measure the distance between an approaching vehicle  161  and the area scanner  160  disposed on the platform  102 . Desirably, this can permit the traffic controlling system  100  to be aware of how far an approaching vehicle  161  is to calculate if the platform  102  should be repositioned, stopped, or if a warning light should trigger on the traffic indicator module  134 . A non-limiting example of the area scanner  160  can be a laser rangefinder. The laser rangefinder can use a laser beam to determine the distance to the detected object. The laser rangefinder can operate on the time-of-flight principle by sending a laser pulse in a narrow beam towards the detected object and measuring the time taken by the pulse to be reflected off the detected object and returned to the laser rangefinder. It should be appreciated that other methods and technologies can be employed by one skilled in the art for the area scanner  160 , as desired. 
     While still referring to  FIGS.  1  and  3 - 4   , the camera  162  can be configured to capture images of objects and the environment within a field of view of the camera  162 . In certain examples, the camera  162  can provide a livestream of the objects and environment in the field of view to the user. Non-limiting examples of the camera  162  can include consumer cameras, machine vision cameras, etc. Advantageously, the camera  162  can provide traffic-related information to the traffic controlling system  100 , which can be used when positioning and repositioning the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . In certain examples, captured data from the camera  162  can be used for traffic surveillance and amber alert tracking. It should be appreciated that a skilled artisan can employ different camera technologies for the camera  162 , within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The navigation unit  164  can be configured to generate the location data. A non-limiting example of the navigation unit  164  can include a satellite-based radionavigation system, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS). Desirably, this can permit the location of at least one of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  to be determined with sufficient accuracy. It should be appreciated that one skilled in the art can select different navigation systems for the navigation unit  164 , as desired. 
     Other non-limiting examples of the sensor  104  can include temperature sensors, azimuth sensors, elevation sensors, gyroscopes, barometers, compasses, sonar technology, lidar technology, radar technology, etc. However, it should be appreciated that other types of sensor technologies are contemplated for the sensor  104  or a combination thereof within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The event zone  124  can have at least one reference point  166 , as shown in  FIG.  6   . The reference point  166  can be configured to be used a reference by the sensor  104  to approximate the location of the event zone  124 . Non-limiting examples of the reference point  166  can include a preselected truck, a preselected piece of equipment, a preselected flag, a preselected cone, and a preselected marker. The reference point  166  can include a longitude coordinate and a latitude coordinate. The longitude coordinate and the latitude coordinate can be generated using a satellite-based radionavigation system, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS). Advantageously, the longitude coordinate and the latitude coordinate can be used by the traffic controlling system  100  to approximate the location of the reference point. 
     In certain examples, the sensor  104  can be configured to detect the reference point  166  of the event zone  124 . Desirably, this can allow the traffic controlling system  100  to determine the approximate location of the event zone  124  with respect to the sensor  104 . In addition, the traffic controlling system  100  can use this information to position the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  at a predetermined distance  168  from the reference point  166 . The predetermined distance  168  can be defined as the distance between the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the reference point  166 . 
     Advantageously, this can permit the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  to be more precisely positioned at a predetermined distance  168  from the reference point  166 . It should be appreciated that a person skilled in the art can select different objects to be used as the reference point  166 . In addition, it should also be appreciated that the number of reference point  166  can be scaled by a skilled artisan, as desired. 
     With reference to  FIG.  7   , the control unit  106  can be in communication with the sensor  104  and the locomotion system  110 . This can be accomplished through wired technology, wireless technology, cellular technology, or other suitable means. In certain examples, the control unit  106  can be controlled via a transceiver  170 . A non-limiting example of a transceiver  170  can include a radio antenna. The transceiver  170  can be configured to receive instructions from the user. However, it should be appreciated that other methods can be used to transmit and receive information to the control unit  106 . 
     The control unit  106  can have a processor and memory. The memory can include a tangible, non-transitory computer readable medium with processor-executable instructions stored thereon. Non-limiting examples of the control unit  106  can be a server, a cloud server, a programmable logic controller (PLC), a computer, and a human-machine interface (HMI). Different types of technology can be employed for the control unit  106 , within the scope of this disclosure. In some examples, the control unit  106  can be remotely disposed from the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . In other instances, the control unit  106  can be disposed on at least one of the platform  102  and the another platform  103 . It should be appreciated that a skilled artisan can scale the number of the control unit  106 , as desired. 
     The control unit  106  can be configured to receive at least one of the traffic-related information and the location data. In some instances, the control unit  106  can be continuously receiving the location data and the traffic-related information from the sensor  104 . In other instances, the control unit  106  can receive the location data and the traffic-related information from the sensor  104  at a predetermined interval. The predetermined interval can be scaled according to how often the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  needs to be positioned and repositioned. 
     The control unit  106  can also be configured to determine if the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  is in the preselected position  122 . This can be accomplished by comparing the location data with the preselected position  122 . Specifically, the control unit  106  can compare the location data of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the preselected position  122 . If the approximated location of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  is different than the preselected position  122 , then the control unit  106  can determine the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  is not in the preselected position  122 . As will be discussed in the further detail below, the control unit  106  can be configured to automatically control and adjust the positioning of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . In addition, the control unit  106  can configured to receive instructions from the user. 
     In addition, the control unit  106  can be configured to determine if the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  is at the predetermined distance  168  by comparing the location data and the time and location when the sensor  104  detected the reference point  166 . For example, the control unit  106  can compare the location data of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the predetermined distance  168 . If the approximated location of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  is different than the predetermined distance  168 , then the control unit  106  can determine the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  is not in the predetermined distance  168 . The predetermined distance  168  can also be used to determine if the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  is in the preselected position  122  by comparing the predetermined distance  168  with the location of the event zone  124 . For example, if the event zone  124  is five (5) feet from the preselected position  122  and the platform  102  is at the predetermined distance  168 , which is six (6) feet from the preselected position  122 , then the control unit  106  can determine where the platform  102  is with respect to the preselected position  122 . In this way, the platform  102  and the another platform  103  can move in response to movement of the reference point. For example, where the reference point includes a road maintenance vehicle or road maintenance equipment, the vehicle or equipment may move as work is completed, where the platform  102  and the another platform  103  can move in response thereto. A moving work event zone can therefore be followed by the platform  102  and the another platform  103 . 
     The control unit  106  can be further configured to execute instructions to position and reposition the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . The instructions can include a pathway that the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected position  122 . The pathway can include a distance and direction between the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the preselected position  122 . Desirably, the pathway can permit the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  to be positioned or repositioned in the preselected position  122 , without having to manually move the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . It should be appreciated that a skilled artisan can select different variables and information to be included with the pathway, within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The instructions can further include a warning pathway that the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected warning distance  158 . The warning pathway can include a distance and direction between the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the preselected warning distance  158 . Desirably, the warning pathway can permit the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  to be positioned or repositioned in the preselected warning distance  158 , without having to manually move the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  to the preselected warning distance  158 . It should be appreciated that a skilled artisan can select different variables and information to be included with the warning pathway, within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In certain examples, the control unit  106  can be configured to generate the instructions. For example, the control unit  106  can be configured to generate the pathway by comparing the approximate position of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the preselected position  122 , and then determine the distance and direction between the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the preselected position  122 . The pathway can also be generated by comparing the predetermined distance  168  with the location of the event zone  124 . It should be appreciated that a skilled artisan can employ different methods for generating the pathway, within the scope of this disclosure. 
     In addition, the control unit  106  can be configured to generate the predetermined distance  168  by comparing the approximate position of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the reference point  166 , and then determine the distance and direction between the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the preselected distance. It should be appreciated that a person skilled in the art can select different methods for generating the predetermined distance  168 , within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The control unit  106  can also be configured to generate the warning pathway by comparing the approximate position of the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the preselected warning distance  158 , and then determining the distance and the direction between the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  with the preselected warning distance  158 . It should be appreciated that one skilled in the art can select different methods for generating the warning pathway, as desired. 
     Now referring to  FIG.  8   , interactions between a software platform  172 , the control unit  106 , and the locomotion system  110  are shown where the user can generate the instructions. Desirably, this can permit more control and customization of the instructions. The control unit  106  can be in communication with the software platform  172  having a graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI can be configured to receive the instructions from the user and transmit the instructions to the control unit  106 . Desirably, this can permit the user to interact with the control unit  106  via the software platform  172 . In some instances, the software platform  172  can be at least one of a dedicated application, a mobile application, and a web application. It should be appreciated that a person skilled in the art can employ different features for the software platform  172 , within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The instructions can also include at least one update to one of the pathway, the predetermined distance  168 , and the warning pathway that the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . Desirably, updating the pathway, the predetermined distance  168 , and the warning pathway can permit the traffic controlling system  100  to maintain the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  in the desired position, even when the preselected position  122  and/or the preselected warning distance  158  changes. For example, the preselected position  122  can change as the moving event zone  124  moves along a road. Advantageously, this permits the traffic controlling system  100  to control the flow of traffic around the moving event zone  124  as it moves, unlike conventional traffic controlling methods that can require entire roads to be shut down to compensate for when the event zone  124  needs to be moved. One of the pathway, the predetermined distance  168 , and the warning pathway can be updated every update set interval. In certain instances, the update set interval substantially continuously. In other instances, the update set interval is every couple of minutes. A skilled artisan can scale the update set interval, when appropriate (e.g., a lower set interval for situations where the platform  102  needs to be repositioned faster). In addition, in certain examples, the user can update and provide pathway, the predetermined distance  168 , and the warning pathway to the control unit  106  as well. It should be further appreciated that a skilled artisan can select other methods for updating the pathway, the predetermined distance  168 , and the warning pathway, within the scope of this disclosure. 
     The control unit  106  can be configured to automatically engage the locomotion system  110  to position the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  using the instructions. For example, the control unit  106  can act as an autopilot and directly operate the locomotion system  110  to position the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  into the preselected position  122  using the instructions. Advantageously, the control unit  106  can be used to automatically adjust the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  as the moving event zone  124  moves along that road, which can facilitate seamless transitions as the work gets completed. In certain examples, the user directs the control unit  106  to engage the locomotion system  110  to position. For example, the user can use the GUI of the software platform  172  to direct the control unit  106  to engage the locomotion system  110  for positioning the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . Desirably, this can allow the user to have precise control over movements the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . 
     It should be appreciated that the sensor  104  and the control unit  106  can be combined with one or more modules to accomplish the same or similar functions, within the scope of this disclosure. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  9   , methods  200  of using the traffic controlling system  100  are shown. The method  200  having a step  202  of providing the traffic controlling system  100  having the platform  102 . The sensor  104  can generate the location data of the platform  102 , in a step  204 . In a step  206 , the sensor  104  can send the location data to the control unit  106 . The control unit  106  can receive the location data, in a step  208 . In a step  210 , the control unit  106  can determine if the platform  102  is in the preselected position  122  by comparing the preselected position  122  with the location data. The control unit  106  can execute the instructions including the pathway that the platform  102  needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected position  122 , in a step  212 . 
     Now referring to  FIG.  10   , methods  200 ′ can include a step of providing the another platform  103 , in a step  214 . In step  216 , the control unit  106  can determine if the another platform  103  is in the preselected warning distance  158  by comparing the preselected warning distance  158  with the location data. The instructions executed by the control unit  106  in the step  212  can include the warning pathway that the another platform  103  needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected distance. 
     Advantageously, the traffic controlling system  100  and method can automatically position and reposition the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103 . In addition, the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  can each receive the traffic indicator module  134 . Desirably, this can permit the platform  102  and/or the another platform  103  to be customized for a given task. 
     While certain representative embodiments and details have been shown for purposes of illustrating the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure, which is further described in the following appended claims.