Mexico relies heavily on speed bumps to control traffic, but they lead cars to use more fuel and emit more pollutants, according to a study by Mexico City Autonomous University. This has led Decano Industries of Mexico to develop “smart” speed bumps.
The device makes driving smooth and hassle free for those traveling the speed limit. The bump is made from two steel plates; if a car is moving slowly enough, its weight triggers a patented device under the metal causing the plates to collapse for a smooth path. Cars going too fast fail to trigger the mechanism and the bump remains in place.
The device is still in the prototype stage, but Mexico City — the central part of the city contains 18,000 speed bumps alone — is hankering for ways to reduce pollution and congestion, no matter how small.
The device is meant for developing countries with rising congestion issues. It uses no electricity and will last about 10 years with a cost of $1,500 per lane and $50 of annual maintenance.
The mechanical version can handle speeds as high as 25 mph, but an electric version will be developed for faster speeds.
