What is Turning Movement Count (TMC)?

Turning Movement Count (TMC) is a traffic term that quantifies the amount of traffic entering and exiting an intersection in a specific period of time. The counts are used to assess the efficacy of traffic intersections and implement improvements to optimize traffic flow and ease congestion.

How is TMC data collected?

Picture an intersection ( we also have an image for you to speed things along). A turning movement count is based on whether vehicles that cross it take a right turn onto another street, a left turn, or continue to move in a straight path. This same rubric is applied to bicyclists and pedestrians as well.

An intersection serves an important role in the blueprint of a road network. It essentially comprises four corners and allows vehicles to convene at a meeting point, from which they can branch out in trajectories of their choosing. This naturally causes more vehicles to gather at intersections than in other portions of a road network, and thereby, largely influences the traffic flow in surrounding areas well.

While manual collection of TMC data remains a possibility, it is for the most part, very cost and labor intensive. This is where video analytics offers an elegant solution. Software platforms such as Isarsoft Perception consistently collect and analyze video data and can be used by traffic personnel to uncover TMC insights.

Applications of TMC data

• Active Traffic Management - Active Traffic Management (ATM) includes a broad range of strategies for managing traffic dynamically based on current or expected conditions in order to improve the efficiency and safety of the transportation system. ATM strategies include ramp metering, variable speed limits, queue warning, and traveler information systems.
• Pedestrian Flow Management - Pedestrian flow refers to the movement of people on foot in a particular area or environment, such as sidewalks, public plazas, or shopping centers. Monitoring and managing pedestrian flow is important to ensure safety, efficiency, and a positive user experience.
• Tourism Preparedness - Many cities witness an upsurge in vehicular, cycle, and foot traffic during the holiday seasons. To cope with an increased number of commuters, it is important to be appraised of current figures that paint a realistic picture of the traffic situation.

Video Tutorials

The above video is a visual case study of how Isarsoft Perception can be used to measure and monitor traffic occupancy at an intersection.

The above video depicts a different intersection and focuses this time, instead, on pedestrians crossing the intersection at two separate points. It is an overview of how Isarsoft Perception can be used to measure and map pedestrian flow, and ensure a safe and smooth experience for them.