A Novel Average Speed Monitoring System for Highways Using Travel Time Between Two Cameras

Aim/Purpose: This study aims to develop and assess a speed monitoring system that enforces continuous compliance with speed regulations on highways by calculating average vehicle speed between two fixed cameras. Background: Unlike traditional point-based enforcement methods, this approach ensures continuous speed monitoring over an extended distance, reducing the possibility of speed manipulation by drivers. Methodology: The proposed system employs mathematical models to calculate average vehicle speed by considering factors such as acceleration, air resistance, and environmental road conditions. To assess its performance, a computer-based simulation was conducted, simulating vehicle movements across a predefined highway segment. The simulation incorporated various driving behaviors and environmental conditions to evaluate the system's accuracy and reliability in detecting speed violations. Due to resource constraints and ethical considerations regarding real-world testing of enforcement systems, this study primarily relies on simulated data, with limitations clearly acknowledged throughout the methodology section. Contribution: This research contributes to the field of intelligent transportation systems by addressing limitations of conventional approaches and leveraging technological advancements to develop more effective interventions for reducing speed-related accidents. Findings: The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed system significantly outperforms traditional point-based enforcement across all key performance metrics, achieving higher measurement accuracy and violation detection rates. Recommendations for Practitioners: Transportation authorities should consider implementing average speed enforcement systems on highways with high accident rates, as they promote more consistent driving behavior and eliminate the "kangaroo effect" commonly observed with point-based enforcement. Recommendation for Researchers: Future research should focus on field implementation and validation, advanced vehicle identification methods, behavioral impact studies, and integration with emerging vehicle technologies. Impact on Society: By encouraging consistent compliance with speed limits, the system could significantly reduce speed-related accidents and fatalities, alleviate pressure on emergency medical services, decrease fuel consumption and emissions, and promote equitable enforcement. Future Research: Further investigation is needed into real-world implementation, enhanced vehicle identification techniques, long-term behavioral impacts, integration with connected vehicle technologies, and comprehensive cost-benefit analyses.