Abstract

The successful development of effective real-time traffic management and information systems requires high-quality traffic data in real time. Traditional methods, including manual counts and the four-step planning model, have proven to be time-consuming and costly. While existing automated systems such as pneumatic traffic counting systems, CCTV, and image processing have been utilized, they often involve significant expenses related to installation and maintenance, especially in environments requiring minimal disruption. This paper discusses the design and field implementation of a novel, solar-powered, automated, real-time Origin-Destination (O/D) data collection and communication system that is reliable, inexpensive, and portable. By leveraging a combination of commercial off-the-shelf hardware and custom software, this system presents a more cost-effective and flexible alternative. Collected data from two test sites were extensively evaluated and compared with loop detector counts to assess accuracy and performance.

Keywords:Traffic data collection; Traffic counting sensors; Mesh network