An investigation of bluetooth technology for measuring travel times on arterial roads: a case study on spring street

Abstract

Research in the field of travel time measurement using Bluetooth technology has been an area of great interest in recent years as transportation professionals strive to increase the cost-effectiveness, accuracy, anonymity, and safety of travel time data collection methods. Commonly used travel time data collection methods include the use of inductive loops, video cameras, and probe vehicles. However, Bluetooth, a globally accepted wireless technology, serves as the medium being utilized by more and more transportation consultants, public agencies, and academics in the collection of travel time data. This study seeks to develop a methodology for measuring travel times on arterial roads using Bluetooth technology. A literature review of general travel time methods and Bluetooth travel time methods was conducted to provide the context for a Bluetooth field deployment development and implementation. The study presents the deployment plan and data analysis of a case study conducted on Spring Street in Atlanta, Georgia. Variable heights, Bluetooth to Bluetooth interference, and detection of Bluetooth devices in probe vehicles are investigated and recommendations are suggested for future Bluetooth travel time studies.