Curd, Chris

Mounting video cameras on winter maintenance vehicles can assist with operational decisions and enhance situational awareness for operators. To help agencies maximize the benefits of these systems, this project conducted a state-of-the-practice literature review, survey and interviews to identify types, uses and best practices for on-vehicle camera systems. Among the agencies surveyed, the most common use was a rear-view device, but cameras are also used to monitor material spreaders, underbody plows and tow plows to verify operation and effectiveness. Several best practices emerged from the research and interview process. These included: • Cameras should be carefully positioned so they do not interfere with driver sight lines or getting into or out of the vehicle. • Cameras should have washer systems and heated lenses, as accumulation of dirt or snow can rapidly degrade image quality. • Cameras are often sold as packages with washer systems. Research shows that low-cost cameras can be used with washer systems, even if they are not initially packaged with them. • In-cab displays should be carefully positioned and have driver-adjustable brightness to avoid distracting reflections on windshields. • In general, it is not recommended to integrate the video from forward-facing cameras into in-cab displays. • Transmitting live video from vehicles is currently poorly supported by cellular networks, particularly outside urban areas, and is not generally recommended. • Involving operators during the planning and installation of cameras has been shown to increase effectiveness and acceptance of the system.

This report summarizes the state of the practice in the application of advanced technologies to winter road maintenance operations. Information was captured through a combination of literature search, surveys, and interviews with key stakeholders. Several promising technologies were identified as areas of interest. These areas include connected automated vehicles, mobile sensor systems, driver assistance systems, enhanced/next generation MDSS, “big data” platforms, data visualization, and video analytics. Use cases for each technology are detailed along with recommendations for potential deployments in both near term and over a five-year planning horizon.