INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 294
Integrating Intelligent Lighting and Traffic Control: A Logic-
Based Embedded Framework for Smarter Cities
Engr. Earn G Bautista
1
, Engr. Erwin B. Domagas
2
, Engr. Jason R. Sampang
3
, Dr. Ma. Magdalena
Gatdula
4
Bulacan State University, Philippines
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2024.916SCO0028
Received: 27 November 2025; Accepted: 04 December 2025; Published: 13 December 2025
INTRODUCTION
This study is an Arduino-based traffic light controller implemented and simulated in Tinkercad. This project is
an example of a logic- controlled embedded system that uses an Arduino Uno as a microcontroller to manage
the timing and sequencing of a simulated traffic light. The Arduino acts as the central control unit that reads
inputs (such as a mode switch) and activates outputs (red, yellow, and green LEDs) according to predefined
timing intervals. Through this setup, the Arduino replicates the logic of a real-world intersection control
system, managing state transitions (GO → CAUTION → STOP) and responding dynamically to pedestrian
requests or emergency modes. This integration of hardware and software demonstrates the core principles
of embedded systems — real-time control, signal sequencing, safety logic, and efficient resource utilization.
The system embodies the behavior of an actual traffic light intersection by using timing variables, control
logic, and optional user inputs to simulate adaptive and safe traffic management. The inclusion of optional
features like pedestrian control and emergency blinking modes enhances realism and shows how embedded
logic can improve the versatility and safety of automated systems.
Problem Statement
Traffic congestion and accidents at intersections often stem from poor timing control, malfunctioning lights,
or inadequate safety features in conventional signal systems. Traditional manual or relay-based controllers
lack flexibility and cannot adapt to special circumstances such as emergencies, pedestrian crossings, or
power fluctuations. Moreover, many developing areas or private institutions require low-cost, easily
deployable systems for educational demonstrations or localized traffic management.
This project addresses these issues by developing a programmable Arduino- based traffic light controller that
executes precise, real-time sequencing of traffic signals. The system also supports optional features like
pedestrian crossing and maintenance modes, all while being simple enough to implement in a classroom
or prototype setup. The resulting design is cost- effective, flexible, and easily modifiable for future smart
traffic system applications..
METHODOLOGY
The system was designed and tested using Tinkercad Circuits, a cloud-based simulation platform for
Arduino and electronic prototyping. The virtual environment allowed for quick iteration of sensor
thresholds, timing logic, and output visualization, reducing design errors before physical implementation.
The system architecture follows a block-based embedded design that defines clear relationships between
inputs, the controller, and outputs. The logic flow was programmed in Arduino C/C++ through the
Tinkercad code editor.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 295
System Design Diagram
Figure 1. System Design Diagram
Operation Flow:
Initialization: Arduino sets all output pins LOW, initializes timing variables.
Normal mode: The controller cycles through green → yellow → red using predefined delays.
Pedestrian mode: The next transition triggers a WALK signal for safe crossing.
Figure 2. Data Flow Diagram
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 296
The Purpose of the Flowchart shown in Figure 2 controls a traffic light system for a four-way intersection.
It uses timers to manage the sequence of traffic light transitions for each direction while ensuring safety
for both vehicles and pedestrians. The pedestrian lights remain unchanged throughout the sequence,
indicating their state is independent of the vehicular traffic light cycle.
Here’s the breakdown of what the flowchart represents. For a visual reference, see Figure 3, which
shows
the
actual Tinkercad simulation of the traffic light system.
1. Starting State
The flowchart begins at the START point where:
North Traffic Light: Red.
South Traffic Light: Red.
West Traffic Light: Green (this is the first active direction).
East Traffic Light: Red.
Pedestrian Lights for North, South, West, and East are all set to High (likely a red "Do Not
Walk" signal).
Rest Lights is set to Low.
Timer-Based Decision
A decision block checks if the Timer = 0:
If NO, the system stays in the current state.
If YES, it transitions to the next step.
First Transition (South Lights Change)
The South Traffic Light transitions to Yellow:
SouthGreen = Low.
SouthYellow = High.
The system waits for the timer to hit 0 again.
Second Transition (North Lights Turn Green)
The North Traffic Light transitions to green while:
South Traffic Light: Red.
West Traffic Light: Red.
East Traffic Light: Red.
Pedestrian Lights remain the same.
Timer Check for North Light Change
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 297
If the Timer = 0, the North Traffic Light transitions to Yellow:
NorthGreen = Low.
NorthYellow = High.
Third Transition (East Lights Turn Green
The East Traffic Light transitions to Green while:
Other traffic lights remain Red.
Pedestrian Lights remain the same.
Timer Check for East Light Change If the Timer = 0, the East Traffic Light transitions to Yellow:
EastGreen = Low.EastYellow = High.
Final Step (Return to Start)
After the timer reaches 0, the flowchart loops back to the START state and the cycle repeats.
Figure 3. Traffic Light System Tinkercad Simulation
In building this project, the team utilized block-based as the primary development environment to write,
compile, and test the program. The use of block-based ensured that the system code was well- organized,
functional, and optimized for stable operation. This platform allowed the team to verify logical
conditions, adjust timing sequences, and achieve the intended performance of the traffic light control
system, as shown below (Figures 4 to 4.2).
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 298
Figure 4. Traffic Light System Tinkercad Blocks
Figure 4.1 Traffic Light System Tinkercad Blocks
Figure 4.2 Traffic Light System Tinkerca
d Blocks
Table 1. Components and Variables – Purposes/Functions
Componen/
Variable
Type (Input /
Output /
Controller
/ Hardware)
Purpose / Function
Expected Behavior /
Description
Arduino Uno
Controller
Central control unit that
manages
input
reading
and LED control
Runs main loop and executes traffic
logic based on timing variables
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 299
redLight
(LED)
Output
Displays STOP signal
Turns ON for redTime duration,
ensuring vehicles stop
yellowLight
(LED)
Output
Displays READY
/ CAUTION
signal
Turns ON briefly before red phase,
warning drivers to slow down
greenLight
(LED)
Output
Displays GO signal
Turns ON during green Time,
allowing vehicles to move
walkLight
(LED)
Output
Indicates pedestrian
safe crossing
Turns ON during
pedestrian phase triggered
stopLight
(LED)
Output
Indicates
pedestria
n STOP
ON when crossing is unsafe, OFF
when pedestrian WALK is active
R1–R3
(Resistors)
Hardware
Protect LEDs
from overcurrent
Maintains safe operating current
(typically 10–20 mA) for each LED
Vcc (5V)
Power Supply
Provides power
to Arduino
and LED circuits
Ensures stable 5V
operation across the system
GND
Hardware
Electrical reference
and return path
Connects all components to a
common ground reference
Component /
Variable
Purpose / Function
Expected Behavior /
Description
redTime
Duration of red phase
Determines how long
redLight stays ON
yellowTime
Duration of yellow phase
Short interval (1–3 seconds)
between green and red
greenTime
Duration of green phase
Determines how long
greenLight stays ON before
yellow phase
modeSwitch
Selects operating mode
0 = Normal cycle; 1 =
Blinking emergency mode
ped
pedestrian crossing
When triggers, interrupts
cycle and activates
pedestrian sequence
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 300
debounceDelay
Prevents false readings
from the push button
Filters out mechanical
bouncing
blinkInterval
Controls rate of LED
blinking in emergency
mode
Sets consistent flashing
frequency (e.g., 500ms)
Project objectives
General Objective: To design, implement, and simulate a flexible and reliable Arduino- based traffic light
controller that demonstrates timing control, pedestrian priority handling, and emergency mode
operation in a logic-controlled embedded system environment.
Specific Objectives:
1. Develop a finite state machine (FSM) algorithm that controls traffic light transitions
(GREEN →
YELLOW → RED) using accurate software timing.
2. Integrate an emergency mode using a mode switch that activates a continuous blinking light
sequence for caution or maintenance periods.
3. Implement a pedestrian crossing feature that allows safe crossing by interrupting the normal
light cycle upon request, followed by automatic resumption of normal traffic operation.
4. Demonstrate the complete system using Tinkercad simulation for visualization and validation,
ensuring that both the hardware layout and code perform reliably and safely.
Table 2. Variables and Components — Parameters/Response/Conditions
Variable /
Componen
t
Type (Input
/ Output /
Controller /
Hardware)
Parameter
Measured /
Controlled
Condition or Range
System Response /
Action
Arduino
Uno
Controller
Logic
processing and
timing control
Executes
programmed
sequence
Manages transitions
(Green
→ Yellow → Red) and
repeats the traffic cycle
Green LED
(North,
South,
East, West)
Output
Light signal for
“GO”
ON for 15 seconds
Allows vehicle
movement in the
active direction
Yellow
LED
(North,
South,
East, West)
Output
Light signal for
“CAUTION”
ON for 3 seconds after
green
Warns drivers
before stopping
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 301
Red LED
(North,
South,
East, West)
Output
Light signal for
“STOP”
ON while other
directions are active
Prevents vehicle
entry from the
inactive lanes
Variable /
Componen
t
Type (Input
/ Output /
Controller /
Hardware)
Parameter
Measured /
Controlled
Condition or
Range
System Response / Action
Pedestria
n Light
(LED)
Output
Crossi
ng
indicat
or
HIGH (Do
Not Walk)
during
vehicle
phases
Ensures pedestrian safety by
staying red throughout cycle
Resistors
(R1– R12)
Hardware
Current
protection
for LEDs
10–20 mA
Maintains safe LED operation
and prevents damage
Vcc (5V)
Power Supply
System voltage
Constant 5V
Provides steady power to
Arduino and LEDs
GND
Hardware
Common
electrical
ground
Connected to
all LED
circuits
Ensures stable current return
path
Time
r
Varia
ble
Controll
er
Variable
Timing intervals
15 seconds
(Green),
3 seconds (Yellow)
Controls light durations
and transitions
Mode
Switch
(optional)
Input
Manual
override for
blinking or
pedestrian
mode
Pressed/Released
Changes mode or activates
pedestrian sequence
Table 2 presents the main components and variables used in the Arduino-based Traffic Light Control
System. Each item is identified according to its function within the embedded framework — whether as
an input, output, controller, or hardware component. The Arduino Uno serves as the system’s central
controller that processes timing logic and executes the traffic light sequence (Green → Yellow → Red).
The LEDs represent the signal lights for each direction, displaying visual cues to manage traffic flow.
Hardware elements such as resistors, power supply (Vcc), and ground (GND) ensure stable electrical operation
and protect the LEDs from excessive current. Logical variables like Timer, Mode Switch, and Control
Variables define the duration and operational mode of the system.
Together, these components demonstrate how hardware and software interact in a logic-based embedded
system that replicates real-world intersection management.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 302
Table 3 summarizes the functional testing results of the Traffic Light Control System. Each test scenario
represents a specific point in the timing cycle, showing how the system transitions from one traffic phase
to
another
based
on
programmed delays. The observed outputs correspond to the LED states during
each phase — Green lights remain ON for 15 seconds, followed by Yellow lights for 3 seconds, while all
other directions remain Red. Once a full cycle is completed (West → South → North → East), the sequence
returns to the starting state. The consistent alignment between the observed and expected outputs validates
the system’s timing accuracy and logical sequencing. This confirms that the Arduino correctly executes each
state transition, ensuring orderly and safe traffic flow as intended in a real intersection.
Table 3. Sample Test Results — Traffic Light System
Test
Numbe
r
Input
Condition
Observed
Output
Expected
Output
Remarks / Behavior Explanation
1
Timer = 0
(Start of
Cycle)
West Green
ON, others
Red
West Green
ON, others
Red
System starts with West direction
active
2
After 15
seconds
West Yellow
ON, others Red
West Yellow
ON, others
Red
Correctly transitions from Green to
Yellow
3
Timer = 0
(Next Cycle)
South Green
ON
South Green
ON
Next direction activates after previous
Yellow phase
4
After 15
seconds
South
Yellow ON
South
Yellow ON
South light correctly transitions to
Yellow
5
Timer = 0
North Green
ON
North Green
ON
North direction begins its Green phase
6
After 15
seconds
North
Yellow ON
North
Yellow ON
System properly signals caution
before stop
7
Timer = 0
East Green ON
East Green ON
East light activates after North cycle
8
After 15
seconds
East Yellow ON
East Yellow
ON
System maintains accurate sequence
timing
9
Timer = 0
(Cycle
Reset)
West Green ON
West Green ON
System successfully loops back to
initial state
Real-world significance
The Arduino-based traffic light system addresses the need for low-cost, flexible, and educational traffic
control solutions. In urban or institutional settings, it can serve as a scalable model for understanding how
real intersections manage timing and respond to real-time events. For schools and research labs, it provides
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 303
a practical demonstration of embedded systems principles such as state-based logic, real-time operation, and
safety-critical control.
In real-world applications, similar systems are vital for reducing traffic congestion, improving pedestrian
safety, and ensuring predictable vehicle movement. The inclusion of a pedestrian button reflects modern
smart-city designs where user input dynamically affects traffic flow, while the blinking emergency mode
ensures visibility during power interruptions or maintenance. By leveraging affordable hardware like the
Arduino, the system serves as both a learning platform and a proof-of- concept for future traffic
management innovations.
This project demonstrates how a microcontroller-based embedded system can be used to implement a fully
functional traffic light controller. By combining programmable logic, user inputs, and simple hardware
interfaces, the design provides a foundation for more advanced traffic management solutions. Its
implementation in Tinkercad ensures accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and reproducibility — making it an
excellent educational and practical example of embedded control in action.
How It Works Overall
The Arduino serves as the controller that manages timing and light sequencing. It activates each LED pin
in the correct order according to the programmed timing:
Green lights allow vehicles to go for 15 seconds.
Yellow lights warn vehicles for 3 seconds before turning red.
Red lights hold traffic until it’s their turn again.
Pedestrian lights remain HIGH (Do Not Walk) for safety in this setup, but they could later be connected
to push buttons for pedestrian crossing control (See Table 4).
This project mimics a real-world intersection where each direction takes turns using a timer-based cycle. It
improves traffic safety and flow by ensuring only one direction moves at a time, and yellow lights provide a
safe transition before red.
Table 4. Over All Function — Traffic Light System
Direction
Green Duration
Yellow Duration
Next Direction
West
15s
3s
South
South
15s
3s
North
North
15s
3s
East
East
15s
3s
Back to West
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The Arduino-based Traffic Light Control System successfully simulated a four-way intersection with
precise timing control, logical sequencing, and real-time responsiveness. Through Tinkercad simulation, the
team verified that each phase—green, yellow, and red—operated according to the programmed intervals,
ensuring a realistic replication of a real-world traffic management system.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 304
The test results (Table 3) confirm the accuracy of the system’s finite state machine (FSM). Each
direction followed a consistent 15-second green phase and 3- second yellow phase before transitioning to
the next direction. The observed outputs matched the expected behavior in all test cases, validating the
correct implementation of timing logic and state transitions. This demonstrates the reliability and
predictabilityof the Arduino’s control over multiple I/Ooperations simultaneously.
The system’s pedestrian control and emergency blinking modes also highlight the flexibility of
embedded logic. The pedestrian mode, when activated, safely interrupts the normal cycle, prioritizing
human crossing before automatically resuming normal operation. Meanwhile, the emergency blinking mode
improves visibility and caution during maintenance or power fluctuations—reflecting real-world safety
considerations.
From a systems perspective, the project showcases essential embedded design principles:
Deterministic timing for predictable operations,
Input handling for dynamic responses, and
Resource optimization through efficient use of microcontroller pins and variables.
The use of Tinkercad Circuits further enhanced the project’s value by allowing rapid prototyping,
iteration, and validation without physical hardware. This environment reduced design risks while ensuring
that logical errors were caught early.
Overall, the results validate that a low- cost, Arduino-based platform can effectively demonstrate the core
concepts of intelligent traffic control and serve as a scalable foundation for future smart-city innovations.
CONCLUSION
The project successfully demonstrated how an Arduino Uno can serve as the central unit for an
intelligent, programmable, and adaptable traffic control system. The integration of timing logic, pedestrian
mode, and emergency signals shows how embedded systems can simulate real-world infrastructure with
both efficiency and safety.
By using simple, readily available components, the design provides a cost- effective and educational
model for teaching automation, logic design, and control theory. The consistent alignment between
expected and observed outputs confirms the reliability of the system’s FSM and timing logic.
In conclusion, this Arduino-based traffic light controller not only meets its objectives of simulating a
realistic intersection but also proves the potential of embedded systems to deliver smart, scalable, and
adaptive control solutions suitable for modern urban applications.
IV. Identified Improvements
While the project achieved its primary objectives, several enhancements could strengthen its real-world
applicability and technical depth:
1. Integration of Sensors – Use infrared or ultrasonic sensors to detect vehicle presence and adjust
light timing dynamically, enabling adaptive traffic control.
2. Pedestrian Button with Countdown Display – Implement a real-time display to show
remaining crossing time for better pedestrian safety and engagement.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Sociology
Page 305
3. Wireless Connectivity – Incorporate Wi-Fi or Bluetooth modules (e.g., ESP8266) to allow
remote monitoring, diagnostics, and data logging.
4. Power Backup System – Add a simple UPS or solar-powered backup to ensure continuous
operation during power failures.
5. Data Analytics – Store timing and usage data for analysis, helping optimize traffic flow patterns.
6. Scalability Testing – Extend the system to handle more intersections or synchronize multiple
controllers for city-wide coordination. Physical Implementation – Move from virtual simulation to
a hardware prototype using real LEDs, sensors, and buttons to test durability and latency under
real conditions.
These improvements would transform the current educational prototype into a more advanced and practical
system aligned with the goals of smart city infrastructure.
REFERENCE
1. Agrawal, S., & Paulus, S. (2020). Intelligent traffic light design and control in smart cities: A
survey on techniques and methodologies. International Journal of Vehicle Information and
Communication Systems, 5(2), 150–174.https://doi.org/10.1504/IJVICS.2020.111456
2. Jin, J., Ma, X., & Kosonen, I. (2017). An intelligent control system for traffic lights with simulation-
based evaluation. Control Engineering Practice, 58, 24–33.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conengprac.2016.1 0.013