A review of vehicle speed measurement methods for the statistical pass-by noise testing

Abstract

The Statistical Pass-By method (SPB, ISO11819-1) is used in environmental impact studies to evaluate, classify, and compare different road surfaces according to their influence on traffic noise. It relates the noise level to the type of vehicles and their speed. There are different methods to measure vehicle speed and the cost plays a significant role in their practicality and widespread adoption. Radar, Lidar, and Photocells-based method systems typically involve higher initial costs due to the sophisticated technology employed, but they offer real-time and accurate data, justifying their investment. On the other hand, Video camera systems may have lower initial costs, but their accuracy can be influenced by environmental conditions and calibration requirements. This paper will assess the cost-effectiveness of these technologies, considering not only the initial setup expenses but also maintenance and operational costs over time. Cost-benefit analyses are crucial in determining the most economical yet reliable solution for specific budget constraints. As the research in this field progresses, a key focus lies in optimizing the balance between cost and performance to make these systems more accessible and practical also for a wide range of applications, ensuring that advancements benefit both traffic management authorities and users alike.