Aftermarket Cameras in Winter Maintenance Vehicles

US Transportation Collection2021PDFTech ReportGallagher, MarkCurd, ChrisSRF Consulting GroupMinnesota. Dept. of Transportation. Clear Roads Pooled FundMinnesota. Department of Transportation. Clear Roads Pooled FundUnited StatesBest practicesCamerasSnowplowsSurveysWinter maintenanceSafetyVideoMonitoringIn-cab trackingClosed-Circuit television (CCTV)CR 17-03MnDOT No. 1028783Pooled Fund #TPF-5(353)Final Report [June 2018 \u2013 June 2021]Mounting video cameras on winter maintenance vehicles can assist with operational decisions and enhance situational awareness for operators. To help agencies maximize the benefits of these systems, this project conducted a state-of-the-practice literature review, survey and interviews to identify types, uses and best practices for on-vehicle camera systems. Among the agencies surveyed, the most common use was a rear-view device, but cameras are also used to monitor material spreaders, underbody plows and tow plows to verify operation and effectiveness. Several best practices emerged from the research and interview process. These included: \u2022 Cameras should be carefully positioned so they do not interfere with driver sight lines or getting into or out of the vehicle. \u2022 Cameras should have washer systems and heated lenses, as accumulation of dirt or snow can rapidly degrade image quality. \u2022 Cameras are often sold as packages with washer systems. Research shows that low-cost cameras can be used with washer systems, even if they are not initially packaged with them. \u2022 In-cab displays should be carefully positioned and have driver-adjustable brightness to avoid distracting reflections on windshields. \u2022 In general, it is not recommended to integrate the video from forward-facing cameras into in-cab displays. \u2022 Transmitting live video from vehicles is currently poorly supported by cellular networks, particularly outside urban areas, and is not generally recommended. \u2022 Involving operators during the planning and installation of cameras has been shown to increase effectiveness and acceptance of the system.127