Designer Hojoon Lim's ingenious concept uses lasers as a barrier to prevent over-eager pedestrians from crossing and to ensure that cars stay out of crosswalks.
The Guardian Crosswalk functions a lot like a normal crosswalk. Lighted pillars alert pedestrians as to when they can and can't cross. However, the key difference between contemporary crosswalks and the Guardian are the latter's lasers. Laser beams span the distance from corner to corner opening a lane for the pedestrian when it’s okay to cross, and cutting them off when it’s time to stop. The lasers are active at all times and are used to either shield those crossing from cars or to keep pedestrians safely on the sidewalk as they wait to cross.
The Guardian Crosswalk puts a fresh and functional spin on a design that currently leaves a lot to be desired.
