A Comparison Between Round Loop and Existing Octagonal Loop Detectors

원형검지기와 기존검지기의 비교 분석에 관한 연구

In order to operate the computerized traffic signal system, it requires the detectors which ensure the exact detections of actual traffic data (e.g., traffic volume, occupancy and velocity of vehicles). The octagonal detectors are used currently in Korea. However, the maintenance of the detectors has many problems with the road repairs and the constructions on the pavement, and failure due to the disconnection of the wires. Serious delay due to the long installation time of loops also causes the traffic disturbances. The low sensitivities and splash-over effect can sometimes create error data after installation of the octagonal loops. The mai purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of domestic use of the round (circular) inductive loops which developed recently in U.S.A. It was found that the round loops are comparable to the existing octagonal loops. In addition, the use of the high quality of materials in the round loop system can reduce the current problems and weakpoints of the octagonal loops. The installation cost of the round loop was found out as economic as the octagonal loop. The installation time of the round loop system can be reduced with the specially equipped loop truck, and wide/deep slots without sharp corners can extend the durability without serious stress of loop head wires. In conclusion, the round loop is superior to the octagonal type in overall points. It is recommended that the localization of the materials and equipments of round loop system is required to carry out the extensive local installations. Also, several contractors to meet the nationwide demand should be arranged to gurantee the proper maintenance and operation of the systems.