Development of a Sensing Methodology for Intelligent and Reliable Work-Zone Hazard Awareness

This is the final report for NCHRP-IDEA Project 139: Development of a Sensing Methodology for Intelligent and Reliable Work-Zone Hazard Awareness. The project proposes a vision-based work zone hazard awareness methodology to intelligently and reliably detect intruding vehicles and missing control devices in work zones so early warnings can be activated to avoid safety hazards for workers and drivers. Two vision-based algorithms that detect intruding vehicles and missing traffic control devices have been developed in the proposed methodology. These two algorithms will serve as the core for developing an integrated, intelligent work zone hazard awareness and warning system. In this study, reliable intruding vehicle and missing traffic control device awareness algorithms have been developed to address the unique technical challenges, including vehicle occlusions, changing lighting conditions, etc., when applying vision technology in work zones.