A local initiative is taking off to inform the debate around traffic management and policy in Crystal Palace. Volunteers are installing a number of stand-alone traffic counters using Raspberry Pi devices running Telraam software. This is an open source traffic-counting system that has been developed by a team in Belgium specifically to promote citizen science-led traffic policy.
Eventually the intent is to combine these traffic counters into a network.
The complete kit is cheap to buy (<£80) and relatively simple to build and install. If you are interested in hosting one, here’s what you need.
The correct location
- You live somewhere with a street-facing window
- This window has a completely unobstructed view onto the street and pavement – no poles, trees, or structures which block the view in any way
- This window is on an upstairs floor (not on the ground floor)
- There is no screen in front of this window that would obstruct the view from the Telraam
- Shutters/blinds for this window can only be used during the hours of darkness
- You have a wifi connection to which the Telraam device can be connected
- You have a power outlet close to the window
The kit
This is all you need. The suggested suppliers (RS & PiHut) is not an endorsement; merely so you can find the right modules’ though we have found them to be reliable and fast.
| Module | Price | Alternative | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi 3 A+ | £23.82 | ||
| Raspberry pi case 1 | £5.66 | KKSB Case 2 | £17.00 |
| Camera with 15cm cable | £24.12 | ||
| Camera holder | £6.78 | ||
| 16GB micro SD card w/ adapter | £8.21 | ||
| Power supply | £7.74 | ||
| Longer camera cable (30cm) 3 | £2.50 | ||
| Total materials cost | £76.33 |
Notes:
1 Note this case does not have a slot for the camera cable so will have to be cut then taped to close
2 Includes an exit slot in the side of the case to allow a ribbon cable to be fitted
3 A longer camera cable helps with installation
Other materials
- a roll of double-sided foam mounting tape to stick the Telraam to a window
- black electrical tape to cover the camera cable
Building & setting up
This involves:
- putting the kit together (10 minutes)
- downloading the software and installing onto SD card
- registering and setting up the network
Telraam documentation
- Assembling Telraam yourself
- Fix and install your Telraam
- Notes on the camera placement
- Register
- Assembly video (in Flemish, but good visuals)
- Setup video (in English)
Help
A team is being set up to help build and install these systems, though of course due to Covid-19, the last step of installation will have to be self completed. Leave a message on the Contact form (include your address) if you need help.
Shape Better Streets Croydon & Bromley 