In-road sensors weigh lorries in motion

Advanced sensors installed in the road surface, combined with number plate recognition systems, will enable the detection of far more incorrectly loaded trailers.

Scandinavian research centre SINTEF is heading NonStop, a Norwegian Public Roads Administration-commissioned project, with partners including the Norwegian Hauliers’ Association and the Oslo firm Ciber.

The aim of the project, now half-way to completion, is to make commercial road haulage more efficient by ensuring that only incorrectly loaded vehicles are stopped for inspection.

The technology used involves a Weigh-in-Motion (WIM) sensor system which measures the weight of the vehicle using a cable sunk into the road surface.

The sensor in the cable utilises PIEZO technology; the cable generates an electrical voltage when subjected to pressure, and in this way can record the weight of a vehicle passing over it. The information is then sent to a computer.

‘This technology is well established’, said SINTEF’s Terje Moen in a statement. ‘However, it must be adapted and assembled to ensure optimal application and function.’