Low-Cost Road Traffic Network Construction: An IoT-based reality-to-virtual mapping system

Road traffic networks are vital for urban vitality, economic growth, and the quality of life, yet their complexity often makes them challenging for the general public to understand. However, traditional methods of building virtual road traffic network models are complex and costly, limiting access for non-experts. To address these challenges and make it easier for people to understand the road traffic network, this paper will introduce a low-cost, user-friendly road system that utilizes IoT and virtual reality (VR) technology. Users can assemble precoloured physical road models, which are identified by an IoT system based on colour sensors to recognize each road segment type. These signals are then converted into models displayed in VR, synchronizing the perspectives of the user and the vehicle. This immersive experience bridges the gap between the real world and virtual environments, making the learning process intuitive and enjoyable. The system effectively converts freely assembled physical models into virtual representations, and user feedback has emphasized it is fun and the ease of use. By combining IoT with VR, this approach provides an innovative educational tool that enhances public understanding of road traffic networks and promotes engagement through interactive and entertaining methods.