Development of Interface Specifications for Mobile Data Platforms on DOT Vehicles


Project Number: Clear Roads 08-02/WisDOT 0092-09-09
Start Date: December 2008
End Date: July 2010
Investigator: Thompson Engineering

Problem
Sensors and other devices used on DOT vehicles are often provided by different vendors, each with their own proprietary communication protocols and data formats. It is costly and time intensive to integrate the different systems into one data stream. The adoption of standards or specifications would simplify the process of adding new components and reduce the overall costs to develop and maintain a mobile data platform.

Objective
The goal is to develop specifications that would support a “plug and play” approach to integrating sensors and other devices.

Expected Results
The results are expected to include interface specifications for a mobile data platform, including data format, architecture, and communications protocols to support roadway maintenance operations. In addition, Clear Roads has requested recommendations for how to implement the specifications as a national standard.