A Puffin Crossing (Pedestrian User-Friendly Intelligent Crossing) is a modern pedestrian crossing used in the UK. Here are its main features:
1. Pedestrian Signals
Unlike older pelican crossings where the pedestrian lights are across the road, Puffin Crossings have pedestrian signals on the same side as the pedestrian.
2. Sensors
These crossings are equipped with two sensors that detect if pedestrians are crossing slowly, allowing the red traffic light to stay on longer if needed. If a pedestrian presses the button but then walks away, the request is canceled to improve traffic flow.
3. Safety Features
Puffin Crossings are designed to assist visually impaired individuals, with some units featuring a tactile knob that rotates when it is safe to cross.
4. Efficiency
The system ensures that vehicle signals remain red until pedestrians have safely crossed, within practical