Installing Snowplow Cameras and Integrating Images into MnDOT's Traveler Information System

016507952017Final Report, 2015-2017PDFTech ReportMN/RC 2017-41(c) 1027825Advanced traveler information systemsAutomatic vehicle locationCamerasImage transmissionSnow removalSnowplowsTraveler information and communication systemsWinter maintenanceSnowWinterWeather conditionsDigital camerasDigitized photographyDigital mapsReal time informationWebsites (Information retrieval)Mobile applicationsRoad conditionsAutomated vehicle locationUnited StatesMinnesotaMinnesota. Dept. of Transportation. Research Services & LibraryHirt, BrianPetersen, ScottCTC & Associates LLCSRF Consulting GroupMinnesota. Dept. of Transportation. Research Services & LibraryUS Transportation CollectionIn 2015 and 2016, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) installed network video dash- and ceiling-mounted cameras on 226 snowplows, approximately one-quarter of MnDOT's total snowplow fleet. The cameras were integrated with the onboard mobile data computer/automated vehicle location (MDC/AVL) equipment and automatically captured snapshots of road conditions during plowing. Images were sent to MnDOT's server and then imported in near-real-time to the MnDOT 511 website and MnDOT mobile app for use by the traveling public. This report details operational and technical considerations for various aspects of plow camera and 511 image integration deployment. It also includes perspectives from plow drivers, their supervisors, management in charge of deploying this project and members of the public. Project completion barriers, solutions and recommendations are included. Based on the successful deployment of this system, MnDOT recommends wider use of this equipment throughout MnDOT's snowplow fleet