Road Weather Management Program
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Best Practices for Road Weather Management Version 2.0

Best Practices > Publications > Publication Titles

Title:

Evaluating the Accuracy of RWIS Sensors

Abstract:

State DOT officials rely on Road Weather Information Systems (RWIS) to obtain accurate real-time information in order to coordinate road maintenance procedures. The accuracy of such systems is imperative to prevent unnecessary and costly deployment of equipment. Pucks embedded in the pavement are commonly used to monitor the condition of the roadway. However, these sensors require lane closures during installation and cutting in to the pavement surface. Another technology available to transportation officials is infrared sensors that may detect the presence of water in its different phases. This type of sensor may offer significant advantages in maintenance and installation; however, the accuracy of the infrared technology relative to the puck sensor needs to be established before recommendation for broader deployment can occur. An in-field comparison of existing RWIS puck sensors and infrared technology was conducted during the winter of 2004-2005. The comparison measured each sensor's ability to accurately detect the phase and presence of water on a section of pavement. Measurements collected using each sensor were compared with visual observations to see how closely each technology measures actual roadway conditions.

Source(s):

Montana State University, Western Transportation Institute, Prepared for U.S. DOT Research and Special Programs Administration and Oregon DOT Traffic Management Section

https://trid.trb.org/view.aspx?id=884672

Date: NA

Author:

Marosek

Keywords:


Road Weather Information System (RWIS)
Pavement conditions
Observing network

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