We have designed an algorithm that detects and accurately positions unwanted objects and unexpected obstructions such as debris on road segments. The algorithm runs at Road Side Units /municipal data centers and utilizes the kinematic information and coordinates of Connected Vehicles, which is readily being transmitted as Basic Safety Messages. The algorithm has the potential of reducing the time and money spent by highway patrols and agencies to identify and remove debris from the road, spot-fix surface problems, as well as the risk of crashes caused by drivers’ swerving behavior to avoid debris on the road. The developed technique is also applicable to foreign object debris detection and removal from airport runways, which is a topic of significant interest in aviation industry.
Density Heat Map Showing the Coordinates of a Traffic Cone Used as Road Debris for Testing