Nu-Metrics, a company developing advanced technology products for the transport market, developed the world's first portable vehicle magnetic imaging (VMI) traffic monitor called 'Hi-Star'. Hi-Star very soon achieved world-wide acceptance, because of its many advantages over other equipment; it could acquire road temperature and moisture data as well as traffic counts. Nu-Metrics then developed its Groundhog series of wireless permanent traffic monitors, combining VMI technology with spread spectrum radio transmission of the collected data. This monitor continually transmits real-time traffic data to a receiver or local base unit (LBU) within 200m, and with telecommunication facilities. Recently, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation awarded a contract to Nu-Metrics to install a comprehensive new weather surveillance and traffic monitoring system in this US state. 36 Groundhog Model G-2WX monitors, together with roadside sensors, are being installed in nine strategic locations in the west of the state. The pavement sensors measure, record, and transmit average speed, volume, occupancy, and type data for vehicles. The system will provide real-time weather data and respond rapidly to snow and ice conditions; it will allow better management of winter work schedule before and during a winter storm.
Abstract