A continuous road surface temperature sensing system senses temperatures beneath the ground surface using optical fiber temperature radar. Using an array of temperature distribution points running lengthwise along a road, data is collated to conduct winter road management in an appropriate and timely manner. Some challenges of establishing an optical fiber burial method (optical fiber specification, selection of material for burying, etc.) have been the completion of the system and the method to precisely extrapolate road surface temperature distribution based on the temperature distribution sensed beneath the ground surface. A system successfully overcoming these challenges was completed through test operations using a serviceable road (Route No.18), and has proved to be a potent defense for enhancing winter road management. Still further, a more sophisticated road management approach combined with a weather observation device will be employed.
Abstract