Constructing a traffic light model/prototype?

Question

I need to construct a traffic light model/prototype, similar to those on our roads. Meaning it is of the same size etc. Can anyone assist me in guiding me the things i should get etc? My search on the internet for traffic light control circuit has given me some results. But i'm not sure if the same hobby kit circuit can be used for my model. Note that i am using multiple LEDs for my traffic lights. Meaning, multiple green LEDs are group together to form the green light. Same goes to amber and red lights.

Answer 1

Use a "timing motor". This is a special motor with a gear box that slows the output shaft down to very slow (sometimes minutes per rotation) speed. A good source for these is digikey.

Check out some of the Cramer timer motors. They have some with output shaft speeds of 1, 1/2, 1/3, or even 1/30 RPM. I think the 1/2 RPM timing motor would be perfect for a normal 2 minute light timing cycle.

Answer 2

I assume you have the array completed. To keep the voltage at a less harmful level, I would use 12v DC.
I would locate a 12v DC motor having a wheel with three segments and use it as the timer. You may be able to find such a device at an electrical supply house. May be more reliable than electronic. Anything electronic would be a bit more complicated, time consuming, and perhaps more expensive too. Good luck. IMHO.

Answer 3

too complicated to describe right here. yet simplistically, you like in-floor sensors, or optical sensors to detect site visitors, some style of laptop or controller to do the calculations, loads of relays, loads of underground cables, a collection of lights, and a source of AC capacity and a DC capacity furnish.