In a recent Clear Roads project, researchers created a method to calculate snowplow cycle times and a visualization tool for agencies to make real-time operational decisions and better analyze performance afterward.
When agencies can observe snowplow delays in real time, they can adjust routes immediately to maintain an appropriate level of service for the traveling public. For example, if a snowplow is clearing a high-volume road and experiences an unexpected delay, a snowplow from a route with less traffic can be sent to the high-volume road. And with the data and information, agencies can identify best practices and optimize their routes.
The methodology developed in the study incorporates many variables that can affect plow cycle times. For example, the calculations consider what treatment the snowplow is applying to the road, the number of lanes the plow is servicing, current weather conditions, and the traffic volume. The framework for the visualization tool incorporates the methodology. This online, map-based framework gives agencies the information needed to create a visualization tool based on the software and data hosting platforms they use.
The final report outlines the architecture of the visualization tool, including data requirements, database design, data conversion processes, and practices for storing historical data.