Roadway Animal Detection System
Remote Sensing System
OBJECTIVES
Every year vehicular collisions with wildlife in the U.S. cause approximately 150 deaths and tens of thousands of injuries. This results in an estimated cost to our society of over $1.2 billion per year. As the number of animal vehicle collisions continues to rise as wildlife populations soar, and as civilization continues to encroach on wildlife habitat, the associated costs in loss of life, injuries, property damage, accident investigation and carcass removal will also grow. RADS is a remote sensing system that provides the necessary reliability and accuracy to assist drivers in avoiding accidents with animals on the roadway.
DESCRIPTION
Using RADS, large animals are detected entering the roadway which automatically triggers the warning device. Drivers are thereby alerted to the presence of animals on the roadway and can react in advance to avoid a potential accident. The system can detect any size animal from a small deer to a large moose in all weather and light conditions.
The RADS sensor uses Radio Frequencies (RF) that operate at a very low power level that is safe to humans, animals, and the environment. RADS operates by line-of-sight in a single or multiple unit configuration (See diagram, on back). By connecting multiple units together in a networking arrangement, longer distances or a perimeter can be covered. Continuous coverage over longer distances is obtained by back-to-back networked systems. Curved roadways are handled by strategic placement of additional sensors to "bend the beam" around the curve.
The data for each crossing (date, time and segment location) is recorded and stored in the master unit for downloading at a later time. The direction of the crossing may be determined from the stored data. Downloading the data can either be accomplished on-site, using a laptop computer, or remotely , using the onboard cellular telephone provided. Other data transmission and reporting options are also available.
RADS consists of the sensors (including the communications network and cellular phone capability), power system and warning device. This warning device is a flashing beacon placed at the beginning and half-way points of each mile of the protected roadway. Other warning methods are optional, including wireless in-vehicle warning systems.