MPC
Research Projects (2002-03)

Identifying Number

MPC-232

Project Title

Detector Technology Evaluation

University

University of Utah

Project Investigator

Peter T. Martin
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah
(801)581-7144
martin@civil.utah.edu

External Project Contact

N/A

Project Objective

Literature searches will be conducted and results will be compiled and reported. There have been numerous studies, reports and handbooks developed to address this issue. Half-day classes on the state of the practice will be presented. The classes would be presented to planners, designers, traffic and safety methods employed throughout the country and a summary of detectors in Utah. This research project will also evaluate UDOTs detector systems cost benefits will be determined for each the initiatives. The project will install, evaluate and report on experimental detector systems. Guidelines and recommendations will be developed.

Project Abstract

The PI teaches an advanced course on Advanced Technical Communication. The need is to develop the course so that it may be delivered across the TEL8 network.

Task Descriptions

• Task 1 – Identify available detector technologies/types and determine their capabilities. Use literature search, user surveys, vendor data, field data. Investigate information fusion/data coupling feasibility.
• Task 2 – Conduct cost/benefit analysis (individual, capital, ops/maintenance, upgradability, user costs, NTCIP compatibility).
• Task 3 – Present findings in report format and provide detector training classes.

Milestones, Dates

• Starting Date: July 1, 2002
• Project Milestones:
• Ending Date: June 30, 2003

Yearly and Total Budget

$70,000

Student Involvement

Two graduate students will be supported for one year; Two MS thesis.

Relationship to Other Research Projects

N/A

Technology Transfer Activities

Workshop; Publication in both peer reviewed and professional journals.

Potential Benefits of the Project

Improve data reliability, quality and compatibility. Maximize efficiency, cost-effectiveness and constructability. Develop guidance and policy for selection of detectors. Justify investment in detectors. Guidelines and recommendations. Performance requirements for equipment specifications.

TRB Keywords

Traffic management, intelligent transportation systems, advanced traffic management systems