Zebra.

The traditional zebra crossing has been an icon on streets around the world since the 1950s. Its characteristic black and white stripes provide safe crossing for pedestrians. Yet, in the light of new urban developments, there is an increasing need for change. The idea of introducing new patterns, specifically the checkerboard pattern, seems like an excellent alternative. In addition, the transformation of the traditional traffic light clock into a model similar to a chess clock can improve both the safety and efficiency of pedestrian crossings.

Why a checkerboard pattern? First, the checkerboard pattern offers better visibility than the traditional crosswalk or a checkerboard pattern. The alternation of 64 black and white spaces instead of the much larger stripes on a zebra crossing or the 50 spaces on a checkerboard makes the crossing point more noticeable to arriving drivers. The better visibility can lead to an earlier response from the driver, which increases pedestrian safety.

In addition, the checkerboard pattern is also didactically useful. It can convey a symbolic message: like in a game of chess, the interaction between pedestrians and drivers requires strategy, planning and anticipating the other's movements.

As for the chess clock, it offers an alternative way to manage time at traffic lights. In a game of chess, each player must make their moves within a certain time, which makes the game efficient and dynamic. This concept can be applied to traffic lights. When pedestrians press the button to cross, the 'chess clock' starts. The time given to cross could then depend on the traffic situation and the needs of pedestrians, just like in a game of chess where the time is adjusted based on the flow of the game.

A traffic light with the functionality of a chess clock can also help reduce traffic congestion. If there are no pedestrians waiting to cross, the traffic light can immediately turn green again for vehicles, instead of following the current fixed timetable. This could improve traffic flow and prevent unnecessary waiting.

The combination of the chessboard pattern and the chess clock thus offers an innovative approach to urban mobility. It not only increases visibility and safety for pedestrians, but also promotes more efficient and dynamic interaction between vehicles and pedestrians. While these ideas may seem radical, they could be a step forward toward safer and more efficient urban transportation.