Why use storage batteries for the in-road beacons (IRADs), rather than solar cells?
Current commercially-viable solar panels simply are not capable of providing the current required to charge the in-pavement beacons, given the small surface area of the beacons and the power required to drive the ultra-bright LED beacons. The storage cell technology used in our in-pavement beacons allows them to operate for several hours a day, for a number of years, before they need replacing. As a separate issue, our road-side active warning signs use solar panels to charge the on-board batteries, meaning these signs can operate indefinitely on solar power, in most cases.
