ECTN - 3D Traffic Data Collection Systems

ECTN is a system integrator providing a comprehensive range of traffic data collection systems. We specialise in the field of 3D vehicle scanning with laser scanners for the purposes of vehicle detection and classification.

Using SICK time-of-flight (TOF) laser scanners, the sensor technology enables numerous intelligent traffic applications including profile measurement, vehicle classification, height control and hotspot detection.

Traffic information collector system

The traffic information collector (TIC) is an overhead, non-intrusive system using the latest laser scanner technology and forms the basis of other systems. It can be combined with other sensors for more sophisticated applications, including dangerous goods plate identification, hotspot detection, weigh-in-motion and axle counting.

The laser scanners use the TOF measuring principle to provide a 3D model of each vehicle. Traffic data is derived such as vehicle speed, classification, travel direction and distances between vehicles.

The TIC differentiates between up to 28 vehicle classes including lane changing vehicles, and is suitable for stop-and-go traffic. The TIC is also available as a mobile reference system for relatively brief measurement periods.

Providing highly accurate data the mobile system is used as a reference data supplier for already existing classification systems (e.g. inductive loops).

Dangerous goods plate identifier for road traffic

The combination of 3D data from the TIC and an ANPR camera results in the dangerous goods plate identifier. Data from two laser scanners provides profile information which is assigned to a 3D model.

The camera is triggered and the resulting images (infrared image and a coloured overview image) are also assigned to the vehicle. In the infrared image the dangerous goods plate is identified and the number on the plate (or the blank plate) is read.

Numbered and blank dangerous goods plates are automatically identified and read with high accuracy.

Hotspot detector for overheating road vehicles

The hotspot detector is used to prevent overheating vehicles entering a tunnel or stopping on a busy motorway. Potentially dangerous hotspots are precisely located on the 3D model (e.g. wheels, axles and exhausts).

For this, a combination of laser scanners and a thermal camera is used. An additional side scanner provides detailed 3D information on the wheel zone of each vehicle, enabling axle counting without any intrusion into the road surface.

HGV profiler for heavy goods vehicles

The HGV profiler measures the geometric dimensions of heavy goods vehicles, indicating length, width or height profile violations on the 3D model. This is a highly accurate measurement procedure with precisions of up to +/-1.5cm which is carried out at a slow speed of about 7km/h.

The system can be certified and a combination with weight measurement or axle counting is also possible.