Establish Clear Response Times for Routine Maintenance Problems of Roadside Units in Connected Vehicle Pilot Deployments.
Nationwide Survey of Multiple Transportation Agencies in the US Revealed Strategies on Proper Maintenance of Connected Vehicle Technologies.
Nationwide, United States
Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Technology: Determining the Impact on State DOT Maintenance Programs
Summary Information
Connected and Automated Vehicle (CAV) technologies have the potential to deliver various safety and mobility benefits not only for users but also for the operators of the transportation systems. This study surveyed state and local agencies in the US to identify anticipated infrastructure maintenance needs arising from the implementation of CAV technologies, develop guidance on measurable maintenance standards, and evaluate associated workforce requirements. A total of 53 participants from 39 state departments of transportation (DOTs) completed the online survey questionnaire, which was made available in the fall of 2019. In the summer of 2020, 13 state agencies identified as the most advanced in using select CAV assets were contacted for targeted interviews. The assets selected for further investigation included On Board Units (OBUs), Roadside Units (RSUs), Dedicated Short-Range Communication (DSRC), pavement markings, cameras, signal control, machine-readable signs, Road Weather Information Systems (RWISs), and data/digital infrastructure. The study later determined that efforts should focus on OBUs, RSUs/DSRC, and pavement markings. Additional interviews with three more state agencies and a few maintenance vendors were conducted in the fall of 2021.
- Establish clear response times for routine maintenance problems of RSUs in CAV pilot deployment. This study, for instance, found that minor problems were diagnosed/resolved by agency staff within four hours. Intermediate problems requiring over the phone or virtual troubleshooting were resolved within 24 hours. Any serious problems requiring vendors to go into the field were solved within 72 hours.
- Have multiple vendors for the supply of products and replacement parts to assure interchangeability when necessary. In this study, it was noted that having multiple vendors supplying a product/replacement part that can be interchanged would help ease the maintenance efforts.
- Ensure the CAV operating agency owns and houses the data. This allows maintenance operators or agency maintenance staff to directly access the data instead of having to go through a third party.
- Monitor camera position to ensure it does not deviate from its original position. Some vendors in this study noted that, although this was not anticipated to be a common problem, it could occur under conditions of excessive wind or due to poor installation.
- Address any deterioration of camera cables due to ultraviolet (UV) rays, even when they are covered with UV protection. This study found that it may be necessary to replace the cables or connectors periodically.
- Pre-negotiate costs to account for additional units needed in case of failure. This study recommends estimating costs with an additional 10 percent for extra units. Moreover, as technology evolves, some agencies may opt to replace devices rather than incur long-term maintenance costs.
- Document roles and responsibilities of full-time employees (FTEs) for agency staff and vendors. This would include, for example, documenting operations and maintenance plans, lessons learned and research needs, to facilitate an easier transition into full deployment after the pilot demonstration period ends.
