Implementing Inductive Loop Signature Technology for Vehicle Classification Counts
This study evaluates recent technology that uses inductive loop detectors, traditionally used for collecting traffic volume and speed data, to provide vehicle classification data by examining the high-resolution signature produced when a vehicle passes over the sensor. The project aimed to verify the accuracy of the new classification system, collect additional heavy vehicle data to help improve system accuracy, and familiarize MnDOT staff with the technology through training and the development of a field deployment manual. Through collaboration with MnDOT and the technology vendor CLR Analytics, Inc., the VSign vehicle classification system was installed at five sites in Minnesota with preexisting loop detection systems. The final sites were chosen to be representative of MnDOT facilities, feature a mix of heavy vehicle traffic, and provide accessibility for deployment staff. Data from the VSign system was compared with manually verified ground-truth data collected from video under both the FHWA and HPMS classification schemes. The system demonstrated high accuracy for passenger vehicles but varying accuracy for different classes of heavy vehicles, though performance improved under the HPMS classification scheme. The VSign system was also evaluated against the video-based iTHEIA™ system at one site, which VSign outperformed in both classification accuracy and detection rate. The results suggest that the VSign system is more effective at locations where vehicles maintain consistent speeds and are centered in the lane due to the negative effects of variations in speed and lateral position on the consistency of vehicle signatures read by the detector.
- Record URL:
Language
- English
Project
- Status: Completed
- Funding: $77,728.29
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Contract Numbers:
1052610
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Sponsor Organizations:
Minnesota Department of Transportation
395 John Ireland Boulevard
St Paul, MN United States 55155 -
Performing Organizations:
SRF Consulting, Inc.
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Principal Investigators:
Minge, Erik
- Start Date: 20230306
- Expected Completion Date: 20241031
- Actual Completion Date: 20241218
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Loop detectors; Traffic counting; Vehicle classification
- Subject Areas: Operations and Traffic Management;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01875291
- Record Type: Research project
- Source Agency: Minnesota Department of Transportation
- Contract Numbers: 1052610
- Files: RIP, STATEDOT
- Created Date: Mar 7 2023 2:11PM