BISON: Fiber Optic WIM System
Dynamic Weigh-In-Motion (WIM) is a constantly evolving sector, with technological advancements that make it an increasingly indispensable tool for managing and maintaining road infrastructures. An example of such evolution is the Fiber Optic WIM BISON System, an innovative WIM solution using fiber optic sensors to measure the weight of moving vehicles, offering significant advantages over traditional systems.
Advantages of the BISON System
The BISON System stands out for several key aspects:
- Resistance to Resurfacing: Unlike traditional sensors, which are irreparably damaged during road resurfacing, the BISON System’s sensors withstand such operations. This ensures uninterrupted operation during road maintenance without requiring any intervention, significantly reducing maintenance costs.
- High Accuracy and Reliability: Thanks to fiber optic technology, the BISON System delivers precise measurements that are immune to electromagnetic interference and temperature variations. This makes it ideal for collecting accurate vehicle weight data even in the harshest environments.
- Durability and Longevity: The BISON System sensors are renowned for their exceptional durability, resisting the stresses of heavy traffic without performance degradation. This results in a significant reduction in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) compared to traditional systems.
- Ease of Installation and Maintenance: The sensors are simple and quick to install, with minimal impact on road infrastructure, and can be deployed year-round. Additionally, maintenance is minimal, further reducing operational costs.
Calibration Procedure of the BISON System
The calibration of the BISON System follows a rigorous procedure to ensure maximum measurement accuracy:
- Selection and Preparation of Test Vehicles:
- Heavy vehicles are selected and weighed on a certified static scale. Measurements of axle spacing and the total vehicle length are also recorded.
- Execution of Calibration Runs:
- A sequence of test runs is performed with different load configurations and at various speeds to gather the data required for calibration. Coordination with drivers during this phase, often performed remotely, ensures smooth operation.
- Calibration of the WIM System:
- Using the collected data, calibration factors are calculated and configured in the BISON System to ensure precise operation.
- Metrological Documentation:
- Upon completion of the calibration procedure, a report is issued certifying the results and the system’s accuracy class.
Types of Calibration in WIM Systems
Calibration is essential to ensure that vehicle weight and speed data collected by WIM systems are accurate and reliable. Two main types of calibration exist:
- Initial Calibration: Conducted after installation, this ensures the system meets nominal accuracy before being officially commissioned.
- Periodic Calibration: Performed periodically to maintain the system’s accuracy over time by adjusting calibration factors to correct any deviations.
Comparison Between Traditional Systems and the BISON System
Compared to traditional WIM systems, such as those using load cells, piezoelectric sensors, or quartz sensors, the BISON System offers numerous advantages:
- Superior Durability: BISON’s fiber optic sensors are more resistant and long-lasting.
- Lower Calibration Frequency: Thanks to the stability of fiber optic technology, the BISON System requires calibration only every four years, compared to traditional systems that demand more frequent adjustments.
Temperature Independence: The accuracy of the BISON System is unaffected by temperature variations, ensuring seasonal stability and reducing maintenance costs.
Conclusions
The BISON System represents a major leap forward in dynamic weighing technology. With its advanced fiber optic technology, it offers superior precision, durability, and reliability, making it an ideal choice for applications in harsh environments and extreme climatic conditions where long-term accuracy and dependability are required.
