Center for Transformative Infrastructure Preservation and Sustainability

Project Details

Title:
Development of In-Pavement LFBG Sensors for Vehicle WIM System Measurement and Monitoring in Rural Low-Volume Road Conditions Phase One: Theoretical Research
Principal Investigators:
Pan Lu, Ying Huang, and Luyang Xu
University:
Status:
Active
Type:
Research
Year:
2025
Grant #:
69A3552348308 (IIJA)
Project #:
CTIPS-052
USDOT Strategic Goal:
Transformation

Abstract

The research aims to address the growing challenge of accurately monitoring overweight truck loads on low-volume roads, which present unique issues for both infrastructure durability and road safety. Low-volume roads, defined as those carrying fewer than 2000 vehicle per day (and often fewer than 400 vehicles per day in rural areas), account for over 80% of the roads in North Dakota. Given the state’s reliance on agriculture and natural resources transport, overload trucks frequently travel these roads, which are not designed to withstand the repeated stress of excessively heavy loads. While special permits are issued for trucks carrying heavy loads under specific conditions, enforcing weight limits on numerous low-volume roads remains a significant challenge. This issue compromises the longevity of the road infrastructure and poses safety risks for all road users. Therefore, accurate monitoring and enforcement of weight limits on low-volume roads is crucial for maintaining infrastructure and enhancing road safety.

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