Advanced Portable Wireless Measurement and Observation Station

The authors of this project designed, assembled, and deployed a temporary detection and surveillance system to collect real-time data on traffic conditions. This information is critical in construction, Advanced Traffic Management Systems, Advanced Traffic Information Systems, and other design and operational activities. Because traditional, permanent systems collect data by sensors in the pavement and transmit it through land-based communications, this equipment is subject to failure in construction areas. Through advancements in wireless technology, the developed system integrates machine vision sensors to collect data, compress digital video for surveillance, and use wireless nommunications for information retrieval and remote control. This new system can be added to current installations or used to create temporary traffic monitoring systems.