Enhanced Magnetic Wireless Sensor Network Algorithm for Traffic Flow Monitoring in Low-Speed Congested Traffic

Traffic flow monitoring using magnetic wireless sensor networks in chaotic cities of developing countries represents an emergent technology. One of the challenges facing such deployment is the development of effective detection signal-processing algorithm in low-speed congested traffic based on the Earth’s magnetic fields. The proposed algorithm is the performance improvement of the previous algorithm known as the Scanning and Decision Algorithm (SDA). The novel algorithm based on the moving-average model includes an addition of a two-pass moving-average filter to improve the signal-to-noise ratio after analog-to-digital conversion. The improved mathematical capabilities enable us to capture additional features of vehicular direction and classification. Other outputs of the model include vehicular detection, count, speed, and travel time index (TTI). The performance evaluation of a proposed algorithm is conducted through on-site real-time experiments at the designated road segment. The results indicated that the roadside magnetic sensor improved vehicular detection, count, travel time index, and classification during low-speed congested traffic state.