In this Phase I we will develop a work zone collision system consisting of "smart barrels" and a central communications computer. The "smart barrels" will incorporate magnetic sensors, an LED display, and wireless communications resulting in a unit that can accurately measure the speed of passing vehicles and relay this information to adjacent barrels and the central communications computer. The other key component of the system, the central communications computer, will incorporate a microcontroller and wireless communications to relay information required to set up and maintain the system. VehicleSense will develop a prototype low-power, high-resolution vehicle sensor based on existing electromagnetic sensor technology we have already deployed in the parking industry. With additional modifications by an experienced technical team, this small, lightweight sensor will perform the desired functions of measuring th speed of passing vehicles. The wireless communication within the system will be based on the wireless protocol used in the VehicleSense street parking information network system of parking meters. This protocol allows for information to travel to the central control system via one or more fixed communication paths. While the LED display will be based on current LED displays in the transportation marketplace.
