Automatic Vehicle Classification (AVC)

General Description:

AVC systems electronically identify a vehicle's type as it moves through a series of detection devices.  The technology utilizes Weigh-In-Motion (WIM), Closed Circuit Television (CCTV), and Roadside Detection (RS-D) systems to classify vehicles.  Regulations may be placed on vehicles that have been identified as a specific type of weight.  These vehicles may be channeled to alternate routes or to a weigh-in station for further inspection.

Effects of Solution:

¨ Increase Passenger Throughput

¨ Increase Roadway Capacity

þ Manage System Efficiency (Sorts vehicles and advises alternative routes)

þ Reduce Local Demand (Removes certain vehicles from traffic stream)

Automatic Vehicle Classification systems can be used to separate different types of vehicles with the use of Variable Message Signs (VMS) and Lane Control.  For example, the separation of heavy truck traffic from visitors will reduce the local demand on a facility. 

Examples of Implementation:

Massachusetts Turnpike Authority Fast Lane Program web page:

http://www.massturnpike.com/fastlane/tech_index.html

Cost/Financial Information:

(Cost/financial information, where noted, is based on 2003 dollars.  Cost/financial information is estimated, and will vary based on size and scope of project, number of units, etc.)

The cost for an Automatic Vehicle Classification system includes Weigh-In-Motion costs as well as the costs for the Roadside Detection (RS-D) and processor costs.  AVC systems are expensive and there are other less expensive options that can be used to classify and divert traffic such as Alternate Route Regulations and appropriate signage.

Additional Resources:

No information available at the time of publication.

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