Variable messaging signs are used in many applications. One such application is the use of LED signs to display vehicle predictions to transit users. The technology that interfaces with these variable message signs is often disconnected, dated and inflexible.
Irwin Consulting Services Inc. has developed a flexible, scalable solution for interfacing with these signs that leverages Azure Sphere and Azure IoT Hub. The solution is a “brownfield” implementation that leverages the existing power supply and LED matrix from the signs while replacing the existing proprietary logic board and firmware with an Azure Sphere certified MCU.
The solution also leverages Azure Service Bus to provide a publish/subscribe interface to various information feeds including Vehicle predictions and Service Alerts.