1111

Power The Counter Selecting The Mode

Leo Mode Screen Views

Delta NT Manual Contents General Operation

1-1 1-2
1-2 1-2 1-2 1-2 1-2 1-3

Operational Indications LEO Mode Selecting a Layout Operationallndications

Adding GPS Coordinates Recording a Study Waking the Counter From Sleep Ending a Study Transferring Data to a USB Flash Drive Memory Space

1-3 1-4 1-4 1-4 1-4 1-5

Road Tube Layouts

Tube Positioning Axle Study Layouts
Layouts 11 and 21 Layouts 31 and 63 Layout 66 Layout 41 Layout 61 :

2-1 2-1
2-2 2-2 2-2 2-3 2-3

Vehicle Study Layouts

Tube Placement Layouts 51, 52 and 65

2-3
2-4 2-4

Table of Contents
Layouts 67 and 68 Lane Strike Patterns Tube Spacing Recornrnendations Special Tube Sets Regular (Equal Length) Tube Sets 2-4 2-5 2-5 2-6 2-6

\\\\
2-7
2-7 2-8 2-8 2-9

Using the Right Layout

Sorne Questions to Ask Layout Surnrnary Vehicle Study Layouts Axle Study Layouts

For More Information

2-9

Software Functions
Connecting the Hardware
USB Cable Serial Port USB to Serial Adapter Bluetooth Connections

3-1
3-1 3-1 3-2 3-2

Counter Clock File Transfer Files Presets Temporary (Next File Only) and Default Settings Automatic Start

3-2 3-2 3-3 3-3 3-3

Maintenance
Environmental Hazards
Moisture Heat Shock Debris

4-1
4-1 4-1 4-2 4.2

Battery Maintenance
~
Recharging Changing the Battery

4-2
4-2 4-3

11

1111
Sensors
Hose Tube Nipples

Delta NT Manual
4-3
Cleaning The Sensors Sensor Gasket Replacement 4-4 4-4 4-4

Changing the Fuse

4-5

Troubleshooting
Counter Operation
LCD screen is blank and no lights are on No sensor activity indications Select button doesn't change the layout light.. An air switch registers more than one hit per axle A sensor does not register any hits

5-1
5-1 5-1 5-1 5-2 5-2

LCO Messages
Battery voltage is blinking BATTERY LOW, CHARGE UNIT INTERNAL ERROR, SERVICE UNIT NO GPS SYNC, WAITING GPS DATA SAVED, SUCCESS CONNECT GPS, WAITING

5-2
5-2 5-2 5-2 5-2 5-2 5-2

OK LEO Codes
Steady blinking Slow blinking (about once every two seconds) Two blinks, pause On (no blinking)

5-3
5-3 5-3 5-3 5-3

Blinks quickly for five seconds .........................................................5-3 Off 5-3

Study Files
Files are not copied onto the memory stick Study files are not saved on the counter

5-3
5-3 5-4

111

Table of Contents Technical Specifications

General Physical Specifications Operational Specifications 6-1 6-1 6-3

\\\\

Appendix A. Data Accuracy and Precision

Counter Resolution
Speed Uncertainty Axle Spacing Uncertainty

A-1
A-1 A-2

Tube Layout Errors

Tubes of Different Lengths Inaccurate Sensor Spacing Measurement

A-3
A-3 A-4

IV

1111
Power The Counter

Delta NT Manual

General Operation

The Delta NT has a On/Off switch located at the lower left corner of the counter face. When the counter is not being used, turn it to Off to conserve battery power. Count data is saved even when power is off or the main battery is removed. If there is nothing showing in the LCDscreen, no lights are on, and the power switch is in the On position, the unit is probably in sleep mode to conserve power. To awaken the unit, push and hold the 5tart button until the LCDor lights come back on. The Delta NT uses a rechargeable 6V - 10 amp-hour gel cell battery. It is designed to last over 280 days when conducting studies. The counter displays the current battery voltage in the LCD home screen. When the battery voltage drops to 6.0 volts, the unit should be fully recharged. This usually takes between 24 and 48 hours using a trickle charger. So long as the battery voltage is 5.8 volts or greater, a new study may be started, but be sure to recharge the battery as soon as possible. If the battery falls below 5.7 volts, no new studies may be started.

Mode Button Sensor Lights

Start BuUon

USB "B" Port -----OK Light USB "A" Port Serial Port ----..... -

8
Sensors

rn~W .
.. _~_ _ _ 48 A B A B

"."
6'-20'

"."

"

6'-20'

Battery Charging Port----J.L

A
51

Select Button
6'10'

52

e
8

On I Off Switch Configuration Lights-----tI""'lII (under each layout)

A
6 20
1 1

_ -

65

63

1-1

General Operations
Selecting The Mode

\\\\

The Delta NT counter has two modes of operation. The LCD mode uses the LCDscreen at the top of the counter to display status and information messages. The LED mode turns off the LCDscreen and uses the red LED lights instead. Some information, like date and time, are only available in LCD mode. To use the layout selection function, you must be in LED mode. Push the Mode button on the right side of the counter face will change the counter between LCDand LED display modes. There may be a slight delay while the mode is being changed. LeD Mode Screen Views Using the Select button while in LCD mode cycles the LCDscreen through its different views. There are three basic display screens: 1. The Home screen--Shows the last four digits of the counter serial number, the current date and time, and the battery voltage. If the voltage is blinking, you must recharge the battery soon. 2. Strike Count screen 1--Shows the number of strikes detected during the first 24 hours and the entire study for SensorsA and B

3. Strike Count screen 2--Shows the number of strikes detected during the first 24 hours and the entire study for Sensors C and D Note: 24 hour totals are from the time recordi not a midnight-to-midnight count (unless the study was started at midnight). The Strike Count screens do not start counting until a recording is started. However, when a strike is detected, you will see the strength of the stike brief1y on the right side of the display. Operational Indications When the recorder is first powered up, it goes through a series of internal tests. It checks the battery voltage, internal memory, and other diagnostics. At the end of a successful test, the LCDdisplay should show the home screen. If another message is displayed, DO NOT continue placing the recorder. Check the Troubleshooting section or contact TimeMark technical support for more information. LED Mode Selecting a Layout If you wish, you may select the layout that has been placed before starting a study. This will save the layout in the file. Otherwise, you can also record the layout in your field notes and enter it into the file later using TimeMark software. The layout selection does not affect how or what data the counter records.

.-

1-2

1111

Delta NT Manual
The Select button changes the sensor layout selection in LEDmode. It will only work if the OK light is blinking, indicating the unit is ready to be setup. If the OK light is on solid, a study is already recording and you cannot change the layout. Depress the Select button to change the selection light to the next layout in a clockwise direction. If you accidentally pass the selection you wanted, keep depressing the Select button to cycle around again. Operational Indications One layout light should be lit. The sensor lights will blink when a strike is detected. counter does not need to be recording to monitor strike detections this way. How the OK LEDbehaves indicates the current state of the counter: Ilf the OK light .. Blinks steadily Blinks slowly (about every 2 seconds) Blinks twice, pauses, repeats Stays on (no blinking) Blinks quickly for 5 seconds Is off (and counter isn't sleeping) Then ... the counter is ready the counter is waiting to start automatically the battery is low data is being recorded a GPSposition has been received the battery is too low to operate, there is a hardware error, or the power is off The

See the Troubleshooting section for more information about handling errors.

Adding GPS Coordinates

A GPSdevice may be connected to the counter either prior to or after starting a study. The counter can then read its position from the device. If the counter is already collecting data, the coordinates are saved in the current study. Otherwise, the location will be saved in the next study that is started. Both a serial cable for GPSunit and a TimeMark serial cable or dongle are required. First turn on the GPSdevice and wait for it to find the satellites. If the counter is not on already, turn it on. Connect the GPScable to the device and the TimeMark cable or dongle to the counter. Then plug the two together. When the counter receives a position, the LCDscreen will display the message GPSDATASAVED, SUCCESS.If the counter is in LEOmode, the OK light will blink rapidly for about five seconds.

WARNING: GPS information is lost if the counter s shut off before

the study begins.
If they are not entered correctly in the field, TimeMark software allows GPScoordinates to be added or changed during the transfer of afile from the counter or afterwards. See your software manual for more information. Note: The last GPScoordinates received by tiie counter are saved in the study fi/e. If the wrong Location was entered, simply reconnect the GPSdevice to the counter at the correct site. When the counter is turned off, the recording file is finatized. Then you must download the file and use software to make any corrections.

1-3

General Operations
Recording a Study
The Start button is used to begin data collection. With the unit in LCD mode, depress the start button to display the confirmation message on the screen. Depress the Start button again to begin data collection. A new screen showing either the date and time the study started or a reminder to connect a GPS device should appear. The Started screen will stay in the screen rotation until the counter is turned off. If "GPS" appears under "STARTED,"coordinates have been saved in the current file.

\\\\

To start a study in LEDmode, select the sensor layout, then depress the Start button three times (1/3 to 1/2 seconds between clicks). There will be a few seconds delay until recording actually starts. Wait for the OK LEDto stop blinking and stay on for confirmation that the study has started before closing the counter lid.

IMPORTANT: If the CONFIRM message on the LCO screen isn't cleared OR (in LEO mode) the OK light is NOT on solid, you are NOT collecting data!
After the study has begun, the Start button will only wake the unit up from sleep mode. It will not stop the collection of data.

Waking the Counter From Sleep

If no buttons have been pressed for several minutes, the counter will turn off its screen and LEDsto conserve battery power. This does not affect a study being recorded. Depress and hold the Start button for a few seconds to wake the recorder after it has gone into sleep mode. This will turn the displays back on.

Ending a Study
To end a study, turn the Delta NT off with the power switch. The data will be saved in the counter's memory.

Transferring

Data to a USB Flash Drive

With the counter power off. insert a memory stick into the USB"A" port. Then turn the counter on. After it finishes booting up, the unit will check for the drive, then start copying any files to it that have not been previously downloaded. While it is working, the busy light on the stick will flash. There may be short pauses between files. The process is not finished until the busy light stops and stays out. Do not remove the flash drive from the counter, or turn the counter off, until you are sure it is finished. Note: When choosing a flash drive, look [or an easily visible activitv light so you can qu;ckly see ;t the counter is accessing the drive. U3 drives cannot be used ;n NT counters unless the U3 component is uninstalted first. Storage size is up to the user, but larger arives do take longer [or the counter to confirm space on. We recommend 2 Gb or smaller drives.

1-4

1111

Delta NT Manual
Studies are not deleted from the counter after they are transferred to a USBflash drive. The counter does mark them, though, so they will not be transferred to a flash drive again. If necessary, it is possible to retrieve all the studies in the counter's memory, marked or not, by putting a file in the root folder of the memory stick named "download.all" (no quotes). Files downloaded onto a stick have an eight character filename with a CDFextension. The first four characters are the same as the last four characters of the counter's serial number. The last four numbers refer to the position of the beginning of the study in the counter memory. If the counter detects afile on the memory stick with the same name as afile it is trying to upload, the counter will skip that study and the file on the memory stick will remain unchanged. However, if the rest of the download is successful, all unmarked files, even those that were skipped because of their file name, will be marked as downloaded in the counter. Back up and remove files from your USBflash drive regularly. This will speed up your downloads as well as make sure you always have enough space. If a memory stick is full, or almost full, the counter will only upload as many complete files as it can. Then, to be sure all the files will be uploaded later, none of the files will be marked as downloaded.

Memory Space
Delta NT units have from 8 to 32 Mb of memory. When a recording reaches the end of the memory, the counter will automatically wrap around to the beginning and continue. This means the oldest study will be overwritten whenever more room is needed. Users do not need to free up the memory themselves. However, you do need to be sure studies are transferred from the counter regularly. The oldest study will be overwritten when the space is needed whether it has been downloaded or not.

1-5

.-.

1111

Delta NT Manual

Road Tube Layouts

This is a guide to help you set up the recorder and road tubes to collect the best and most useful data possible. Although there are no guarantees of accuracy when using pneumatic road tubes, using the right layout for the volume and conditions of the site will directly affect the quality of your study. Whatever configuration you use, be sure to record it in your field notes. It is possible, but not necessary, to enter the layout number in the counter before you start recording. Otherwise, the layout can be entered into each file as it is downloaded from the counter.

Tube Positioning
Tube sensors should always be laid so they are parallel to the oncoming axles. Both tires on an axle should strike the tu be at the same time. Otherwise, each tire might be counted as a separate axle. One way to help ensure only one strike per axle is to only extend a tu be halfway into the farthest lane. Then only the tires on the side of the vehicle closest to the counter will strike the hose. If you are concerned that the end of the tube will be struck in the middle of the roadway, though, you may place the tube all the way across the last lane.

Axle Study Layouts

Axle studies are useful for quick, simple results from sites where the traffic is homogenous or complex layouts would be difficult to set up. For example, if you know almost all of the vehicles will have only two axles, you can get pretty good results from an axle study layout. you only need basic gap timing, you could also use this kind of layout.

If

Speed studies using axle layouts only use one sensor and only count two-axle vehicles that are separated by minimum gaps (4 seconds, for example). That may be adequate for a low volume, residential street. But if there will be higher volumes or a wide variety of vehicles, a one-sensor (axle) speed study will only give you a feel for the free-flow speeds, not a complete picture. Most older volume counters do axle volume studies because they do not require many calculations. An axle volume study simply takes the number ofaxles detected and divides it by the average number ofaxles expected per vehicle. Note that axle studies are only estimates. They are only as accurate as the average number ofaxles (for volume) or average two-axle wheelbase (for speed) used when analyzing the data.

2-1

Road Tube Layouts

Layouts 11 and 21

\\\\
21

These configurations use one tube over a single or multiple lanes. Layout 11 only collects data in one channel. Layout 21 is for two independent channels. If a tube crosses multiple lanes, the data may be affected by shadowing, which is where one axle strike obscures another strike at the same time in another lane. Any gap analysis done on multiple lanes will be combined gap only.
11

_Ac ~
Layouts 31 and 63 These layouts use sensor pairs to separate axle volurnes into two or four lanes, respectively, One sensor is placed across one or more lanes. Then the second sensor of the pair is placed across the same lanes plus the additional lanes you want to separate. The number of strikes on the shorter tu be will be subtracted from those on the longer tu be to get the count for the farthest lane. Poor lane discipline may cause counts in the wrong lane. Tube A (and e, for layout 63) is always the shorter tube of a pair.

31

63

Layout 66

Al
~

,-

This layout can count up to four separate lanes. The A sensor is only placed across the near lane, the second sensor across the first two lanes, the third sensor across three lanes, and the fourth across four lanes. If possible, avoid extending each tube more than halfway into its final lane. If you only need to count three lanes, do not use the A sensor and start with the B tu be across the first lane.

66

-B
'-;

1___ =

= - -Ar:: '--

2-2

1111
Layout 41

Delta NT Manual

Layout 41 is specifically designed for counting at low volume and low speed sites such as residential streets and parking lot entrances. It is especially effective on roads with poor lane discipline where layout 31 does not work. The expected traffic volume should be low enough that it will be rare to have cars going opposite directions striking one sensor at the same time. When that happens, only one strike (and one vehicle) will be detected. Similarly, be cautious about using this configuration for more than two lanes because it compounds the problem of simultaneous actuations.
41

A B ,-

~
The order and timing of the sensor strikes is very important when analyzing data from this layout for volume. Therefore, it is critical that the hoses be laid out correctly. Place the tubes 4 inches apart, or about one palm's width. Be sure that both tubes are EXACTLY the same length, including any stretch, and that they are parallel to the vehicle axles. Layout 61 This layout is simply four independent sensors. You cannot select it on the counter, but it can be changed in the file during or after transfer from the counter. It is usually only used for sensor testing.
61

JBt
~ Vehicle Study Layouts
Vehicle study layouts based studies include during processing for instance, a tube fails

.D

make up for in study result accuracy. Using each channel allows software to calculate need to know what the mix of vehicle types during analysis for you.

What vehicle layouts add in effort to set up, they pairs of tubes that are a known distance apart for axle spacings and classify each vehicle. You don't was to get accurate results; that is reconstructed

must be used for classification or per vehicle studies. Other vehiclevolume, speed and gap. Single tubes can be selected from these layouts axle-based results. This allows some results to be recovered if, for during the study.

2-3

Road Tube Layouts

Tube Placement

\\\\

The tubes must be parallel to each other as well as to the vehicle axles. When they are laid out, you must carefully measure and record the distance between them so they can be entered into the file before they are processed. To make sure the hoses are parallel, measure the distance between them on both sides of the roadway; they should be the same.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to write down, or program in, the exact distance between the sensors if you are using these layouts. The software needs this measurement in its calculations.
Lay the hoses between 6 and 20 feet (2 - 6 meters) apart. The average speed at the site should be considered when determining the spacing. In general, the faster the traffic, the farther apart the hoses should be. The accuracy of the analysis results is dependent on the accuracy of the tube spacing and length. You can see the importance of accurate measurements when setting up the layout in Appendix B. The accuracy of each axle's speed, and thus the spacing between axles, depends on the precision of sensor spacing measurement. Layouts 51, 52 and 65 There is no maximum vehicle volume restriction when using two hoses over a single lane. However, if you use any of these layouts across two lanes, the Average Daily Traffic volume (ADT) should be less than 8,000 to 10,000 vehicles per day, or 500 vehicles per hour. Otherwise shadowing (multiple simultaneous axle strikes) may become a problem.
51 65

~
l-

A"

~-

I~

"::.

~~

le
ZJ
lB
I

1}

Note: Layout 52 (not shown) is like layout 51, except that it is [or one-way traiiic in a single lane. Layouts 67 and 68 There are no traffic volume restrictions when using these layouts over two lanes. Always use a four tube arrangement when higher speeds and volumes are present at the site. This will ensure a higher success rate of grouping axles strikes by lane and vehicle.
67 68

,;.::

~ALB~el
~

When using four tubes to get multiple lanes of vehicle information, it is crucial that they be laid out precisely. As with any vehicle study layout, they must be parallel to the axles and to each other. Accurately measuring your tu be spacing is always important, but the spacings between all the tubes is especially critical for this layout.

2-4

1111

Delta NT Manual
Lane Strike Patterns Vehicles create two different strike patterns when crossing a layout 67 or 68, depending on which lane they are in. A vehicle in the lane nearest the counter crosses all four tubes. The A and e tu be strikes will be used for calculating the vehicle. Matching B and D strikes will be completely ignored by the analysis so they are not also counted as a vehicle in the far lane. Vehicles in the far lane only cross the B and D hoses and do not conflict with any data from the near lane. The hoses must be placed in the proper order with correct spacing so that strikes are recorded in the right order by the counter. VIAS, the analysis software, will try to remove a B strike after an A strike and a D strike after a e strike. The B and D tu be strikes must be within a limited time window of the short tube strikes. Tube Spacing Recommendations To reduce errors due to tu be strikes being recorded in the wrong order or not close enough together, it is important to measure the distance between the short and long tubes as well as the distance between the long tubes. The speed of the traffic needs to be considered when deciding what those spacings should be. Just like any other vehicle study layout, both hoses in a spaced pair need to be the same length, including any stretch, to get good results (see Appendix A). A and e are one spaced pair and the B and D hoses are another. But whether the length of one pair is the same as the other is also important to choosing the correct tu be spacing.

2-5

Road Tube Layouts

Special Tube Sets

\\\\

The easiest way to aehieve the best aeeuraey is to use Speeial Road Tube Sets. The A and e tubes in this set are actually shorter than the long tubes by the width of a lane. Then pulses from an axle strike in the near lane will get to the counter from both the short and long tube at about the same time. Special RoadTube Sets Tube Spacing Traffie Speed 10 - 40 mph (15 - 65 k/h) 30 - 80 mph (45 - 130 k/h) Between Short and Long Tubes (->a<- and ->c<-) 4 in. (10 cm) 6 in. (15 cm) Between Long Tubes -b- 10 ft. (3 m) 16 ft. (4.8 m)

Table A-1 Special Tube Sets Spacing

Regular (Equal Length) Tube Sets If all four tubes are the same length, then the pulse from the lane will take longer to reach the counter. The excess tubing by the counter, making the actual distance from the strike to the spaeing between the short and long tubes can eorrect for Regular RoadTube Sets Tube Spacing Traffic Speed 10-40mph (15 - 65 k/h) 30 - 80 mph (45 - 130 k/h) Between a Short and Long Tube (->a<- and ->c<-) 9 in. (23 cm) 18 in. (45 cm) Between Long Tubes -b- 10 ft. (3 m) 16ft. (4.8 m) tube that only crosses the inside on the "short" side is coiled up the counter greater. Inereasing this.

Table A-2 Regular Tube Sets Spacing

67/68

b
!=

a --o;.

fE-

=
~

~c

e
ft

2-6

1111
Using the Right Layout

Delta NT Manual

There are many things to think about before you layout your hoses. Being aware of what each layout can do will help you pick the best one for each site. Some Questions to Ask Is there a lot of traffie at the site? Vehicle study layouts at high volume traffic sites work best with one spaced pair of hoses for each lane of traffie. Otherwise, it is more difficult to separate overlapping vehicles when the data is processed. Do you need to know the elass, axle spaeing, speed, or aeeeleration of eaeh vehiele? If so, you must use a vehicle study layout. The spacing between the tubes should be based on the speed of the traffic and the accuracy you need. See the tables in Appendix A for common examples. Carefully measure and record the spacing so the data will be analyzed correctly. Whieh way is the traffie moving? All the vehicle study layouts require traffic to cross the tubes in a certain direction. If the hoses are laid out backwards, the data must be corrected before it can be processed. When placing a vehicle study layout, traffic in the lane closest to the counter should strike the A hose first. Axle studies do not depend on the direction of the traffic. Layout 41 does separate its counts based on the order of sensor strikes, but the totals will be the same no matter which sensor is first in the near lane. How many lanes or ehannels of data do you need? Do you only need a total for everything on the road, or will you also need results for each lane or direction of travel? At a site with two lanes, layout 52 will only give one total, and there may be classification issues when vehicles overlap. At the same site, layout 67 will separate the data for each lane, so vehicle overlap is not a problem. Even if you only need combined totals for a volume or speed study, remember that shadowing may occur whenever one tube counts more than one lane. If two axles strike the same sensor at the same time, only one will be detected. Then the study will report a lower than actual total. This is one of the reasons layout 41 should only be used at low volume sites. Are the vehieles in well-defined lanes? Any layout that separates multiple channels by extending tubes different distances across the road (31, 63, 66, 67 or 68) relies on vehicles being in one lane or the other. This is called strict lane discipline. An example of a site that may have poor lane discipline is a low volume street with no center line. When there is no other traffic, some vehicles may drive near the center of the road. Layouts that require strict lane discipline might count these vehicles in the wrong lane. For layout 68, being in the wrong lane would be going the wrong direction and the vehicle might not be counted at all. If all tubes cover all the same lanes, where the vehicle is in the road is not important. The right tubes will always be hit. Layout 41 is specifically used for gathering directional axle volume where there is poor lane discipline.

2-7

Road Tube Layouts

\\\\

What kind of reports (volume, speed, gap, classification) do you need?

Vehiele study layouts can be analyzed for any kind of results. Vehiele gap studies only show results for eaeh lane. However, you can select one sensor from a vehiele layout and analyze it for a eombined axle gap reporto Axle study layouts eannot be used for per vehiele or elassifieation studies and speed studies are limited.

Might different information about the same site be needed later?

Even though you only need a simple axle count now, is it possible someone will request a report on the speeds or mix of vehiele elasses at the same site? If you use a vehiele study layout, the data can be reprocessed any way you need. Use an axle study layout if you are sure you will only need a simple volume count, general speed trends, or a combined gap study (or you will need to collect new data by the time you need something different, anyway).

Is there a median?
Use layout 21, 63, or 65 if you will be placing the counter between lanes. Only layout 65 can be used for per vehiele results. For axle studies, layout 63 separates the volumes for two lanes on each side of the median.

Do you only need the gap time across alllanes?

One tube is all you need to measure the gaps in traffie across the whole road. Any layout can be used for this. Just select the tube that crosses all the lanes to be processed. If you need other information from the same data, ehoose the layout that also supports that.

Layout Summary
The following tables list the major features of each layout.

Vehicle Study Layouts

Required for results based on individually elassified vehieles (rather than estimates)

Required for speed studies that inelude all vehieles Data may also be analyzed Spaeing between for axle-only results for proper analysis

the tubes must be rneasured and recorded

51
Separate channels Directions of travel Number of tubes Median separating opposite directions of travel Handles high volumes well Tolerates poor lane discipline Separates data from two adjacent lanes
* If there is only one lane of traffic

52
1 1 2 X'

65
2 2 4 X X" X

67
2 1 4 X X

68
2 2 4 X X

2 2 2

X X

** If there is only one lane of traffic on each side of the median

2-8

1111

Delta NT Manual
Axle Study Layouts For volume studies, the average number ofaxles per vehicle at the site must be well-known For speed studies, only data from free-flowing, two-axle vehicles is needed Per vehicle or classification data will never be required from the data

L
11
Separate channels Directions of travel Number of tubes Road has a median Handles high volumes well Tolerates poor lane discipline Separates data from adjacent lanes *** If they are going in opposite directions X X 1 n/a 1

21
2

31
2
n/a

41
2 2 2

63
4 n/a 4 X X

66
4 n/a 4 X X

n/a

2
X X X

2
X

X X X*** X

For More Information

Another in more counter Support manual, Road Tube Bastes, is available from TimeMark which covers road tube layouts detaiL Besides hose configurations, it also has tips for choosing the location of your and information about different kinds of road tube. It is available in the Customer section of our web site at http://www.timemarkinc.com.

2-9

1111
Connecting the Hardware

Delta NT Manual

Software Functions
NT counters have more functionality than meets the eye. You can record and retrieve your studies using just the counter, its controls, and a USBmemory stick. But with a TimeMark application such as VIAS, you can go even farther. The major capabilities are listed here. The software manual has more details.

Software can work with the Delta NT through either its serial port or the USB"B" port. Which one you use will depend on what you need to do and what you are connecting to. USB Cable The fastest connection is available through the counter's USB "B" porto Any USBA-B cable will work. With the counter off, plug the flat "A" end of the cable into your computer and the square "B" end into the counter. Then turn the counter on. The first time you connect the counter to the computer and turn it on, you may see a message that new hardware has been detected. Drivers for the counter's USBto UARTinterface must be installed. The TimeMark VIAS installation includes the drivers for the Windows 2000 and Windows XP operating systems. If the default drivers cannot be found, Windows Vista users can log in to TimeMark's Customer Support web site and download them. To conserve battery power, the USBports turn off after they have not been used for several minutes. When this happens, turn the counter off, then back on to wake up the USBports. If a study is recording and you can't turn off the counter, using the serial port is your only choice. Serial Port When you cannot use a USB connection, you may use the counter's serial porto The default baud rate is slow (4800 baud) so it will work with GPSdevices. A TimeMark DB9 serial (COM) cable or dongle must be plugged directly into the serial porto There is a special pinout in these connectors that is required to turn the port on. As long as that cable or dongle is plugged in and the power is on, the serial port will be on and using battery power. The female end of the TimeMark cable is plugged into a port on the computer.

3-1

Software Functions
USB to Serial Adapter

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A USBto Serial adapter may be used with computers that don't have serial ports. Look for them at the TimeMark online store or any retailer that sells computer cables. If you don't buy from TimeMark, be aware that not all adapters are created equal. Those marked as PDA adapters are not recommended. Install the adapter on the computer according to the instructions that come with it. Some configuration may be needed before it will work with VIAS. Bluetooth Connections A Bluetooth serial adapter may be used to connect to the counter wirelessly. You must plug a TimeMark Bluetooth dongle into the counter first. A dongle used for GPSdevices or a TimeMark cable will not work. Plug the Bluetooth adapter into the TimeMark dongle. On the computer, set up the Bluetooth connection as a serial (COM) port.

You cannot use a Bluetooth USB dongle. The USB "A" port only recognizes memory sticks for downloading files.

Counter Clock
Software is the only way to set the date and time on your counters. There is no way to change it on the counter itself. The counter does not self-adjust its dock. You must connect to the counter every spring and fall if you need to change the dock for daylight savings time.

File Transfer
TimeMark software gives users more flexibility when downloading files from a counter than the automatic USBflash drive transfer. You can review the files on the counter and select only those you want. And they can add notes or enter the layout and tube spacing as the files are transferred. The software can also transfer files that have already been copied onto a memory stick. Files do not transfer to a memory stick more than once without forcing all of the studies to be uploaded.

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Files Presets

Delta NT Manual

Information about a study can always be edited or added to the data file after it has been saved on a computer. But if certain information must be saved with afile when it is recorded, you can preprogram some settings in advance. These include site code, a few short notes, layout number and spacing, and channel titles. Advanced presets include the sensor dead time and sensitivity threshold. These can never be changed after afile is recorded, even with software, because they affect what data is saved. If the counter dead time is too short, that can be corrected during analysis with a longer software dead time, but you cannot correct a counter dead time that was too long. These counter settings should only be changed when absolutely necessary and with a full understanding of how they will exclude data.

Temporary (Next File Only) and Default Settings

Settings can be preprogrammed for the next file started only (temporary) or as defaults. In general, any setting that is different from study to study (like the site code) should be left blank in the defaults and only ever set temporarily. The default settings would be a good place to set the most often used layout and tu be spacing (if applicable). Temporary settings are erased after a study is started.

Automatic Start
This feature allows you to set up a counter in the field without starting it right away and without waiting around to start the recording. For example, a counter could be set out during normal working hours, but not start recording until midnight. An automatic start time can be up to 27 days in the future. Once it is set, though, you must leave the counter on. To cancel an automatic start, turn the counter off. This is a temporary, next file only setting.

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EnvironmEmtal Hazards

Delta NT Manual

Maintenance
The Delta NT counter is tough, simple, and easy to maintain. Under most circumstances the counter will only require minimal yearly maintenance to perform at peak efficiency.

To ensure long life and accurate counts, you should be aware of the kinds of hazards that the Delta NT encounters in the day-to-day world of traffic counts. There are four main outside forces that can wreak havoc on any counter. These are moisture, heat, shock, and debris. Moisture The Delta NT is adequately sealed against most moisture incursion and should remain dry with the lid closed even in rain or high humidity conditions. Even so, moisture may still get in the counter. Do what you can to keep moisture out. Check the lid gasket for cuts, shrinkage, or movement. Always use end plugs of some kind in the road tubes to exclude water. Holes in tubes may also be a source of moisture that can be "pumped" into the counter as vehicles cross the tubes. The processor board is coated with a moisture barrier to protect it from corrosion. However, too much moisture can still corrode the electrical circuits and the connectors used to power the main board and sensors. Avoid allowing water inside the counter at all times. If it's raining when you place the counter, cover the unit with plastic when the cover is open to prevent water from getting into thecounter or do as much of the setup as possible in the shelter of your vehicle. If your region is one known for high humidity or rapid changes in temperature, condensation in the counter may cause corrosion. Placing packets of silicon desiccant in the counter may help absorb excess moisture and prevent condensation-induced corrosion. Often the first sign that there is moisture in the counter is found when picking up the unit in the field. On opening the lid there may be drops of moisture on the inside of the lid gasket or the display face may have beads of water on it. If you find moisture in the counter, do not turn it on. If the counter is already on, turn it off before moving it. Tilt the unit, battery side down, and drain any excess water out. Take the unit to a dry place. Take off the battery cover and the display face with processor board. Disconnect the battery, either at the battery or the connector on the processor board. Use an absorbent cloth to blot up moisture from the inside of the case. If it's really wet you may need to remove the sensor board as well. Do not wipe the processor board with the cloth. Use the cloth to absorb moisture on the case only. Then allow the entire unit to air dry at least 24 hours before attempting to reconnect the battery and turn the unit on.

Note: NEVER use compressed air to blow debris or water from any of the circuit boards.

Heat Under most circumstances, heat will not be a serious problem for the Delta NT counter. The counter is resistant to heat up to around 160 Fahrenheit (lOC). However, placing the unit on pavement with direct sun exposure in the heat of summer has the same effect as baking the unit in an oyen.

4-1

Maintenance

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Protecting the counter from excessive heat will also promote battery life. The higher the internal temperature of the battery, the shorter its life. A battery that stays at room temperature and below will last twice as long as a battery that is exposed to temperatures over 100F (37"C). Batteries that get hotter than 125F (52"C) may last less than 6 months. The original paint on the counter provides the best protection against heat. The light color reflects a great deal of the sun's energy away from the counter, protecting it from overheating. Setting up the counter in the shade keeps it cooler and may also reduce the risk of vandalismo Out of sight, out of mind. Shock Dropping the counter or rough handling can loosen the components and connectors inside the counter or bend the battery bracket. Long-term rough handling will eventually cause problems. Debris Rubber shreds, water, dirt, spider webs, ants, and other debris can plug the sensors. Keep things out of the counter that don't belong to ensure the best data collection. Put an environmental cap on any unused hose nipple.

Battery Maintenance
The Delta NT counter comes with a 6 volt 10 amp hour non-memory retentive gel-cell battery. The battery is a sealed unit and does not require any internal maintenance. The battery voltage is displayed on the LCD home screen when the counter is turned on. If the battery voltage has dropped to between 6.0 and 5.7 volts, the voltage display will blink to indicate a low battery condition. A study may still be conducted, but the battery should be recharged at the earliest convenient time. If the battery voltage drops below 5.7 volts, the unit will not start. Recharging To help the battery last as long as possible, charge it on a regular basis. By developing a standard recharge cycle, you can avoid the counter quitting in the middle of a count because the battery went dead. With average usage, a fully charged battery in good condition will power the Delta NT counter for approximately 250 days without a recharge. Try to schedule charging cycles over a weekend on a quarterly basis if possible. Charge the battery with the counter turned off. We recommend you use either the TimeMark Gang Charger for charging multiple units at the same time or our universal charger for individual counters. Both have built-in circuitry that will prevent overcharging the battery. Use of other chargers, especially variable voltage chargers, may void your warranty or damage your counter. If you have more counters than chargers, use rotation so that each counter gets charged at least once every three months. If you run each battery until it is very low and don't recharge them often, you may save the cost of a charger, but pay in reduced battery life. Recharge the battery when the voltage reads 6.0 volts. Recharging the battery at this level will maximize the useful life of the battery. At no time should the battery voltage be allowed to drop below 5.3 volts. When the battery drops this low, the life expectancy of the battery can be cut in half.

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Delta NT Manual
Changing the Battery Turn the power switch off. Remove the four screws from the battery cover on the left side of the counter. Uft off the battery cover panel and set it aside. This will expose the battery and wires. Using a pair of needle nosed pliers, grasp the negative (black wire) connector firmly and work it off the battery spade. Take care not to grasp or pull the wire when working the connector off the battery. The connectors will be tight. If you use your thumb to apply pressure to the pliers, place something between the pliers and your thumb or you may get pinched. Do the same for the positive (red) side of the battery. Uft the battery out of the case, noting the position and color of the connectors for positive and

negative. Then replace the battery with a new or freshly charged battery. Use the pliers to line up and push the connectors back on the battery, positive connector first, then negative.

Warning: Use only an approved battery. Failure to use the proper battery may cause the counter to fail prematurely or operate improperly and will void your warranty.
After reconnecting the battery wires, turn the unit on. The Leo screen should show the last four digits of the serial number, battery voltage and the date and time. Switching to LEO mode should turn on the OK and layout lights. If this doesn't happen, it may be necessary to replace the fuse. If the new battery works properly, reassemble the counter. Take care to guide the battery wires if the display board was removed so they are not trapped under the board. Replace the battery cover and screw it back on.

Sensors
The four piezo sensors are mounted on a single circuit board that is connected to the case with three screws. There are insulating grommets in the board that the screws go through that help isolate the board from vibrations that may be picked up from the case. On each of the sensors there are soft gaskets that form a seal between the case and the sensor.

4-3

Maintenance
Cleaning The Sensors

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Occasionally debris can get up inside the sensor or in the gasket area and reduce or block the pulse from the hose. Everything from rubber shreds, water, and spider nests have been cleaned out of the sensors and tube nipples. The sensor may be cleaned using a cotton swab or a small stiff brush. Compressed gas (the type used to clean computers) may also be used to blow debris out of the sensor.
If the sensor has become severely plugged with debris or damaged with water, it may be necessary to replace it. Sensors may be replaced individually or an entire sensor assembly may be swapped out for a new one. We recommend you send in the sensor assembly for repairs.

Always keep caps on your unused sensor connectors. You should also test the operation of the sensors at least yearly, or any time a problem is suspected. Sensor Gasket Replacement Over time, sensor gaskets may become less pliable and no longer form a good seal. To replace the gaskets, remove the three screws, take out the sensor board and peel off the old sensor gaskets. Wipe the face of each sensor with a clean cloth to remove any residue or glue from the old gaskets. Don't use any spray cleaners on the sensors themselves as the chemicals may damage the piezo disk. Peel off the protective paper from the new gasket and carefully press the new gasket onto the sensor. Be sure to center it so that the hole in the center of the sensor is not obstructed. Always replace all four gaskets at the same time. Hose Tube Nipples When axle strikes are being lost on a single sensor and you have already taken the sensor board out and can find nothing wrong with it, there may be debris in the nipple. Take a pipe cleaner, piece of wire, or extra large paper clip that you have straightened out, and insert it into the nipple from the inside of the case. Push any debris out of the tube. Never try to clear a blocked tube nipple by inserting anything from the outside of the counter while the sensors are still installed. You may push debris into the sensor or damage the piezo film inside the sensor. You should be able to see light through the tube when it is clean. Reassemble the counter and test it for proper operation.

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Changing the Fuse

Delta NT Manual

The fuse holder is a "snap" connector. It comes apart by gripping the two ends with your index fingers and pulling out with them while pushing up on the joint with your thumbs. Once the fuse casing has been opened, the fuse inside is held by clips that are soldered to the wire. Slip the old fuse free of the clips and replace it with a new one (250 Volt 1 Amp). Reassemble the holder by pressing the two halves together.

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Counter Operation

Delta NT Manual

Troubleshooting
This section contains information on various situations that may happen, how to diagnose the problem, and what to do to fix it. If you can't find your problem or an answer here, please contact TimeMark (800-454-1015 or support@TimeMarklnc.com). Our business hours are Monday through Friday (except holidays) from 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time.

Leo screen is blank and no lights are on

Check to see that the on/off switch is on. Pressand hold the Start button to wake the recorder up. Check the battery connections and voltage. No sensor activity indications Is the counter sleeping? If the display screen is off and the OK light isn't on or blinking, hold down the Start button for a few seconds to wake the counter up. Which display mode is the counter in? If the LCDscreen is on, the sensors lights will not flash. In this mode, use the Select button to cycle to the screen to view each pair of sensors (A and B or C and D). In addition to displaying the number of strikes detected on each sensor, the strength of each strike will be displayed briefly as well. To use the sensor lights instead, switch to LEOmode. Are the hoses securely connected to the right hose nipples? Are the hoses laid out properly in the lanes? Check for a hose problem. Is it pinched or blocked with debris? If one sensor seems to be working but another isn't lighting up, try switching the "good" hose to the nonfunctioning sensor. If it lights up, replace or clear the faulty hose. Connect to the counter with your TimeMark software and check the sensor sensitivity in the advanced dialog of the settings tab. There are three sensitivity threshold levels: 1. Low For high speed roadways where there is a lot of potential for echoes being produced 2. Normal Works well in most situations, with speeds ranging from 10 to 65 mph (15 to 105 k/h) 3. High Bicycles, driveways, and other low speed areas Select button doesn't change the layout light If the OK light and Layout light are both on solid, the Delta NT is collecting data. The layout cannot be changed after recording has started. If the LCD display is on, press the Mode button once to switch to LED mode.

5-1

T rou bleshooti ng
An air switch registers more than one hit per axle

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Check the road tube to see that it is parallel to the axles. Switch the road tubes to different sensors. 1. If the problem switches sensors, there's a problem with the road tube. Check for holes or blockages. 2. If the problem remains with the same sensor after switching tubes, the problem is with the air switch. Connect with TimeMark software and check the sensitivity and dead time settings. It may also be time for sensor maintenance.
A sensor does not register any hits

Switch the road tubes to different sensors. 1. If the problem switches sensors, the problem is with the road tube. Check to see if it is plugged, has holes, or the clamp is too tight. 2. If the problem remains on the same sensor, the problem is with the air switch. Connect with TimeMark software to check the sensitivity and dead time settings. Otherwise, sensor maintenance may be necessary.

Leo

Messages
Battery voltage is blinking

The battery voltage is between 6.0 and 5.7 volts. You may set out the counter, but recharge it at the next available opportunity. Use a TimeMark-approved charger. If charging the battery does not clear this message, replace the battery as described in the maintenance section.
BATTERY LOW, CHARGE UNIT

The battery voltage is below 5.7 volts. You must recharge the battery before you can record any studies.
INTERNAL ERROR, SERVICE UNIT

A serious error has occurred.

NO GPS SYNC, WAITING ...

Contact TimeMark for help.

A GPSunit has been connected to the counter, but it does not yet have a satellite fix.
GPS DATA SAVED, SUCCESS

A position has been read from a connected GPSunit and saved. Press the Select button to clear the message.
CONNECT GPS, WAITING ...

The counter has been preset to show a reminder to plug in a GPSunit when a recording is started. You can ignore this message. Pressing the Select button will remove it from the display.

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OK LEO Codes
Steady blinking

Delta NT Manual

When the counter is in LEOmode, how the OK LEOblinks (or not) indicates the counter's status:

The counter is ready to record. Slow blinking (about once every two seconds) The counter is waiting to automatically start at a preset time. Manual for more information. Two blinks, pause The battery voltage is between 6.0 and 5.7 volts. You may set out the counter, but recharge it at the next available opportunity. Use a TimeMark-approved charger. If charging the battery does not clear this message, replace the battery as described in the maintenance section. On (no blinking) The counter is recording. Blinks quickly for five seconds This indicates that GPScoordinates have been received and stored. Off The battery voltage is too low to operate (less than 5.7 volts), there is no power, or there is a hardware error. Check your power switch, battery voltage and connections. If it does not seem to be a battery problem, contact TimeMark for help. See the VIAS User's

Study Files

Files are not copied onto the memory stick Is there enough free space on the stick? Backup or delete files so there is enough room. Are you using a U3 (smart) flash drive? The U3 format does not work with TimeMark NT counters. Either uninstall the U3 component or use a different flash stick. Did you plug the stick in before turning the counter on? The counter will only check for a flash memory stick right after it starts up. Have the files already been downloaded? The counter will only download afile to a memory stick once. To force the counter to copy all the files, downloaded or not, create afile named "download.all" on the stick and try again. You may also use software to see all the files and which have been marked as downloaded. Can you connect to the counter with software using a USBcable? If the USB"B" port is not working, the USB"A" port probably is not, either. Download your files with the serial port and contact TimeMark about counter repair.

5-3

Troubleshooting
Study files are not saved on the counter

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Are you sure the files were recorded? To start a study, the Start button must be pressed more than once. If the display does not change to say recording has started (or the OK light does not stop blinking after a few seconds in LEOmode), recording has not started. You may have not pressed the Start button enough, or pushed it too fast or too slow. Check the batteries. recording. If they are too low, the counter may not be able to start

Are there a lot of files on the counter? Eventually, when the memory is full, newer studies will start overwriting the oldest ones. Do not use the counter for longterm storage. Download files and save them regularly. If you are using software to look at the files, have you included the downloaded studies? Unless you check the box to include them, files that have already been downloaded won't be shown in the list.

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Delta NT Manual

Technical Specifications
The Delta NT is a self-contained, microprocessor-based data collection recorder that works with road tu be to record the axles of detected vehicles. It is designed for simplicity in field operation with corresponding computer software to aid in the translation of the axle data into vehicle information. The recorder collects timestamped event data that can be analyzed to provide volume, speed, axle classification, gap, and vehicle information.

1. General
A. Manufacture 1. All original equipment shall be manufactured in the United States. 2. All original equipment shall use solid-state electronics. B. Warranty 1. All equipment shall have a three-year limited warranty. C. Support 1. An 800 telephone number shall be provided for support.

11.Physical Specifications
A.
Size 1. The unit shall not exceed 8" X 9" X 5" (20 x 23 x 13 cm), excluding handle. 2. The unit shall not weigh more than 10 lbs. (4.5 kg) in sheet metal case.

B.

Power 1. The recorder shall use a rechargeable battery with enough capacity for over 210 days of continuous counting with 20,000 vehicles a day on two tubes under normal environmental conditions without supplementary charging such as a solar panel. 2. A method of recharging the battery without its removal shall be provided. 3. There shall be an on/off switch for disconnecting the battery when not in use.

C.

Enclosure 1. The unit shall be housed in an aluminum housing with locking mechanism that shall be weather resistant. 2. The battery shall be accessible without removing the other electronic boards. 3. The air switch nipples shall be oriented to hinder water and foreign debris from entering the air switch.

D.

Environmental 1. The recorder shall operate throughout the range of temperatures appropriate for road tube. 2. The unit shall not be damaged by temperatures from -30'( to 70'( (-22'F to 158'F).

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Technical Specifications
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E.

Communications 1. There shall be an RS-232serial port to allow for file setup such as connection to a GPS unit to download coordinates. 2. There shall be a USB-B(device) port for transferring data with a standard rate of 921,600 baud. 3. There shall be a USB-A(host) port so that data can be transferred to flash memory devices.

F.

Clock 1. There shall be a real-time dock powered continuously by a lithium battery, even when main power is off.

G.

Memory 1. There shall be at least 8 MB of memory standard and up to 32 MB possible. 2. This memory shall be flash so no data is lost when main power is removed. 3. The memory shall be wrap-around so that erasing data manually is not necessary.

H.

Display 1. The unit shall have lights to indicate proper operation of the air switches. 2. There shall be one button to start a collection session. 3. There shall be a simple one button method used to select a layout from a visual selection diagram. 4. There shall be a method to observe real-time sensor information with a device attached to the serial port.

5. The unit shall have a liquid crystal display that shows the time, serial number, battery
voltage, 24-hour total count, total count, and input strength. 6. While a study is underway, the display shall also show the time the study started.

7. There shall be confirmation when GPSinformation is received.

1. Air switches 1. There shall be four air switches. J. Serial number 1. Each recorder shall have a unique serial number which is saved with each study.

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A. Setup

Delta NT Manual

11I. perational Specifications O

1. There shall be a single-use set of parameters (listed below) that are only used on the next file created: a. A sensor layout b. Sensor spacings c. A 24 character (alphanumeric) site code d. Four 8 character channel titles e. Three 60 character description fields f. Sensitivity and dead time (debounce) for the air switches 2. There shall be a method to set the defaults for all the settings listed above. 3. There shall be a method to set a start time in the future. 4. There shall be a method to change the baud rate of the serial port. 5. The unit shall allow for GPScoordinates and UTC (coordinated universal time) to be added to the file at any time during its collection through a serial connection to a GPS device.

B.

Vehicle

1. Unit shall allow for the collection of data that can be analyzed to provide vehicle
information which indudes direction of travel, time of arrival, number ofaxles, axle spacings, axle classification, speed , and leading gap for each vehicle.

2. The resolution of the timings shall be less than 150 microseconds, limiting calculation
error to a maximum of 2 mph on a 60 mph vehicle with a 4 inch sensor spacing. C. Air switch

1. The air switch sensitivity shall be adjustable for different site characteristics like speed,
road tube length, and tire width.

2. The air switch dead time shall be adjustable from O to 255 milliseconds.

D.

Memory

1. The memory shall allow the storage of at least 99 separate files. 2. The memory shall store at least 800,000 vehicle record s for a standard two tube layout.

E.

Data Retrieval

1. There shall be an automatic method of transferring either all files or only those that
have not already been uploaded to a USBflash memory device.

2. The recorder shall allow individual files to be downloaded by software any number of
times.

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Counter Resolution

Delta NT Manual

Appendix A. Data Accuracy and Precision

The quality of data recorded by TimeMark counters depends largely on two things: the resolution of the time data and whether the tubes were laid out appropriately. This appendix discusses what to expect from vehicle (spaced tube layout) study data.

Delta NT and Gamma NT counters can record data in two formats. "Strikes only" is identical to the older TimeMark Delta 111ounters. "Strikes with strength" saves the relative strength c of each sensor strike. While "Strikes only" files may be smaller for high volume studies, the resolution of the timestamps is higher in "strength" mode. A counter's resolution is the smallest length of time between two events that can be saved. A shorter length (higher resolution) will mean more precise timing, which leads to more exact calculations. The resolutions of TimeMark sensor strike event recorders are:

TimeMark Counter Resolutions

Delta Delta Delta Delta

Counter NT and Gamma NT recording with strength NT and Gamma NT recording strikes only 111 1,Delta 11,Lambda, Gamma
Table A-1 TimeMark event data resolution

Resolution (r), seconds 8/216::::: 0.00012207 6/213::::: 0.00073242 30/213::::: 0.00366211

Because the amount of space used to save time information is limited, some rounding is inevitable. Calculation results may be slightly more or less than what actually happened. For most traffic reporting needs, the size of the uncertainty for each vehicle will be negligible if the tubes are spaced properly. On average, results for large number of vehicles will be accurate. An uncertainty tells you the most the calculated number is off by. The actual value may have been that much more (or less) than the calculated value, or the difference may be smaller. Any number that uses time in its calculation will have some uncertainty. Speed Uncertainty The speed of a vehicle is calculated by dividing the distance between the sensors by the time it took for one axle to move from the first to the second tube. It is good practice to make the time (spacing) between the sensors much larger than the time resolution. A larger spacing will mean a smaller uncertainty.

Vehicle speed uncertainty (in mph) ::::: ~~: ~2 x r

where v r

= the speed of the vehicle (in mph) = the time resolution of the counter data (in seconds)

s = the spacing between the tubes (in feet)

A-1

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_._-_ ..._--------------------------------------~

AppendixA

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10 ft. 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.09 15 ft. 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06 20 ft. 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.04 25 ft. 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04

Using this formula, the following table shows some sample uncertainties in speed calculations for Delta NT data recorded with strength:

Speed Uncertainty, Speed (mph) 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 4 in. 0.05 0.21 0.48 0.86 1.34 1.93 2.63

mph, when recording strikes with strength

Sensor Spacing 9 in. 0.02 0.10 0.21 0.38 0.60 0.86 1.17 5 ft. 0.00 0.01 0.03 0.06 0.09 0.13 0.18

rabie A2 Speed Uncertainty,

mph, when recording Strikes with strength

As an example, consider a vehicle crossing tubes that were placed 10 feet aparto If the calculated speed is 40 mph, there is an uncertainty of 0.03 mph. That means the actual speed may have been anywhere from 39.97 to 40.03 mph. VIA5 rounds speeds to one decimal place, so that difference would rarely be noticeable. Axle Spacing Uncertainty The spacing between two axles on a vehicle is calculated from the time between the axles striking the same sensor and the speed of the axles. So, again, there is uncertainty in the results.

Axle spacing uncertainty (in inches)

where v r
= =

=((

15 x a + 22 x v x r ) 15 x s - 22 x v x r

xs-a

x 12

the speed of the vehicle (in mph) the time resolution of the counter data (in seconds)

s = the spacing between the tubes (in feet) a

= the actual spacing between the axles (in feet)

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Speed (mph) 10 20 30 40 50 60 70

Delta NT Manual
Here are some uneertainties ealeulated for two axles that were aetually five feet apart:

Spacing Uncertainty for Axles 5 ft. Apart, Sensor Spacing 4 in. 0.3 0.7 1.0 1.4 1.8 2.1 2.5 9 in. 0.2 0.3 0.5 0.7 0.8 1.0 1.2 5 ft. 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.3 10 ft. 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2

inches

when recording strikes with strength 15 ft. 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 20 ft. 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 25 ft. 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2

Table A3 Spacing uncertainty with strike strengtb

[or axles 5 [t. apart, inches, when recorded

Saya vehicle was going 40 mph aeross tubes set 5 feet aparto If the ealeulated spaeing between two of its axles is 5 feet, that spaeing might be off, but only by two-tenths of an inch or less. The table shows how uncertainty increases with the speed of the traffie, but decreases with larger sensor spacings. The uncertainty is also greater for wider actual axle spacings (a).

Tube Layout Errors

There will always be uncertainties in the speed and axle spacing ealculations due to time resolution, but they are small and easily manageable. They also average out over time and enough vehicles. If the sensors are not laid out correctly, though, all vehicle caleulations will be incorrecto The amount of the error can be calculated. Tubes of Different Lengths If two sensors are hit at the same time, the signals should reach the eounter at the same time. But that assumes the length of the tube from the tires to the counter is the same. If one tube has more length between the counter and the traffie than the other, the signals from the longer sensor will be delayed. Cars erossing from the longer tube to the shorter will appear to be going faster than they really are, and vehicles going the other direetion will appear to be going slower.

Tube length speed error (%)::::: -where v s M p

= =

t:.txv
pxs x 100

the speed of the vehicle the spacing between the tubes

= the difference in length of the sensors = the speed of the air pulse in the tube

The variables may be in any units of measurement, as long as v and puse the same units of speed and s and M use the same units of distance.

A-3

1-

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__

_--_._-- ._

_----------------------------------

AppendixA

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15 0.9% 1.7% 2.6% 3.5% 4.3% 5.2% 6.1% 20 0.7% 1.3% 2.0% 2.6% 3.2% 3.9% 4.5% 25 0.5% 1.0% 1.6% 2.1% 2.6% 3.1% 3.6%
oi
10

The following table shows how errors will become larger at faster speeds and/or narrower sensor spacing. These numbers are for lJ.f. = 10 feet (3 m) and p = 770.45 (assuming dry air at 70F (20e)). The air pulse speed changes with temperature and humidity.

Speed Calculation

Error Percentage

Due to tube length error of 10 feet (3 m) Speed (mph) 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 Sensor Spacing (feet) 5 2.6% 5.2% 7.8% 10.4% 13.0% 15.6% 18.2% 10 1.3% 2.6% 3.9% 5.2% 6.5% 7.8% 9.1%

Tabie A-4 Speed calculation error percentages due to a tube length error [eet

In this example, the speeds for all vehicles that were actually going 40 mph will be off by 2.08 mph (40 0.052) if the sensors were 10 feet apart and one tube was ten feet longer than the other. The vehicles that strike the longer tube first will appear to be going 42.1 mph and those going the other direction will be calculated to be going 37.9 mph. There will also be uncertainty in these calculations, but only 0.03 mph (from Table A-1). Inaccurate Sensor Spacing Measurement Accurate counter data analysis depends on the correct, exact spacing between the sensors being known. Being off by even an inch will affect the calculations. If the spacing used by the analysis is too short, the vehicles will appear to be going faster than they actually were. If the analysis distance is longer than was actually laid out, calculated speeds will be too slow.

Speed error (%)

where s 6s

=-

l1s x 100 s

= the actual spacing between the tubes = the difference between the measured and actual sensor spacing

s and 6s may be measured in any units, as long as they are the same.

A-4

...........

_._

..._-_.-

------~--_ .. -_._--

1111
Spacing error (inches) 1 3 6

Delta NT Manual
Generally, the wider the sensor spacing, the less the same measurement mistake will affect the results. Here is an illustration of how much a measurement mistake influences speed calculations:

Speed Calculation

Error Percentage

Due to Incorrect Sensor Spacing Sensor Spacing (feet) 5 1.7% 5% 10% 10 0.8% 2.5% 5% 15 0.6% 1.7% 3.3% 20 0.4% 1.3% 2.5% 25 0.3% 1% 2%

Table A5 Speed calculation error percentages due to incorrect sensor spacing

Suppose vehicles were moving across sensors that were actually laid ten feet (120 inches) apart. If the spacing was incorrectly entered as 121 inches, the calculated speeds would all be 0.8% too slow. At 40 mph, this is a 0.3 mph difference. In contrast, the uncertainty of the calculation is only 0.03 mph (from Table A-1).

A-5

Road Tube Basics Table of Contents

Layout Basics
Selecting the Site Places to avoid

1
1

Thi ngs to Always Do Selecting the Layout Layout N umbers 11, 31, 21
Types of Data: Limitations: Placement: Recommendations: Tube Placement:

3 4 4
4
5 5 5 6

Layout N umbers 51, 52

Types of Data: Limitations: PI acement: Recommendations: Road Tubes Layout Types of Data: Lirnitations: Placement: Recommendations:

6
6 6

(Oiagram)

7 7 8

Layout N umber 67, 68

9
9
9 9 9

Layout #67, #68 Layout N umber 65

Types of Data: Limitations: Placement: Recommendations:

10 12
12 12 12 13

Layout Number 41
Types of Data: Limitations: Recommendations:

14
14 14 15

PNEUMATIC

ROAD TUBE

15
15 16 16 16 16

Rubber VS. EOPM Inside Oiameter Round VS. "O" tube Temperature Length of tube

For More I nformation

contact us at: E-Mail us: Our Website:

17
17 17 17

Road Tube Basics

Layout Basics
Successful collection of traffic data is dependent on several factors. Selecti ng the proper layout is one of the most crucial. In this basic manual of Traffic Data Collection and Road Tube Layouts a short description of each available layout will be discussed. The merits and proper use of each will be explained. Situations where a particular layout would not be advisable will also be pointed out. It is not the intention of this mini manual to make you an expert at conducting traffic counts, but hopefully it will increase your success rate and improve the accuracy of the data you collect.

Selecting the Site

Many municipalities have count stations. Some even have maps showing location and station number. For these sites most of the guess work has been taken out of the equation. However the field technician should be aware that locations that were fine several years ago may have changed. Before a count is conducted it is always a good idea to survey the site for changes that may adversely affect the accuracy of the count. Perhaps a signal has been added, or a new housing complex or school has gone in. Any changes occurring in the surrounding neighborhood will affect the usefulness of the data collected. Things as simple as a new construction site a block away can impact the level of traffic volumes and throw off an otherwise perfect count. Of course it's impossible for you to know every detail about what may be happening around a particular site. But, by watching out for tell-tell signs it's possible to avoid many of the pitfalls that can lead to a failed count. Spend a few minutes looking around before setting out the hoses. Is there an unusual amount of construction equipment in the area? Are cars queuing up at the new signal over the count area? Will they during a peak hour? Has a new road been placed within 50 feet of the old count station? If so it may be necessary to move the station to a new location. Be aware of any special events occurring in the local area during the count periodo Unless that is the reason for conducting the count, avoid placing the counter until at least a few days after the event. Because most counts are being performed on an annual or semiannual basis factors such as school openings and closings can impact some areas more than others. It's always a good idea to conduct studies in areas that are not being impacted by other outside forces in any unusual way.

A TimeMark Incorporated

Mini-Manual

One final warning. Watch out for sweepers. Those denizens of the dark swoop out of nowhere and neatly suck up unsuspecting road tubes, ending many a count prematurely. If you work for a municipality it's a good idea to contact the Street Sweeping Supervisor and find out what the sweeper schedule is in the area and warn him about potential conflicts with your setups.

Places to avoid
Try not to locate a road tube closer than 40 to 60 feet from an intersection where traffic being counted has already passed through the intersection. This applies especially to intersections that have signals because of platooning. When vehicles leave a signal, on the green, the first few cars run abreast and often create "shadows" that hide the vehicle next to them. Also placing the tube too close to the intersection tends to get multiple hits from vehicles turning onto the roadway from an intersecting street. This may result in double strikes from front and rear axles because the vehicle hasn't had time to straighten out.

8'
I

- -

.........

Never place a road tube closer than 100 feet from a stop sign on the approach side. Allow even more distance if traffic queues up during rush hours. Vehicles are slowing, sometimes braking hard. The stop and go, or slow movement of vehicles during peaks in these zones can adversely affect the accuracy of the count.

....

~~

,
..

Road Tube Basics

~I

Placing the counters too close to stop signs or signals will often lead to premature hose failure from hard braking cars, or loss of counts because of slow vehicle speeds or vehicles stopping on one of the hoses. Avoid placing counters in the arch of a curve unless the curve is a very gentle "sweeper". Vehicles passing over the road tubes may register strikes for each tire instead of each axle. Try not to place the counter too close to driveways, entrances or exits of major centers of commerce such as shopping malls or grocery stores. Under counting may occur due to vehicles stopping on the hose while waiting for other vehicles to clear the driveway or entrance. Where parking is allowed next to the curb try not to place the counter where vehicles will park on the hoses during the work day. If possible place temporary No Parking signs to keep people from parking on the hoses in the count zone.

Things to Always Do
Use the correct layout and counter for the volume and conditions of the count zone. The more familiar you are with the capabilities of the counter, and the purpose of the layout you are using, the better the data collected will be. Consider safety first. I know it seems like an old clich but, safety is no accident. Always wear a good quality bright (not old and faded) reflective vest. Make your presence known to oncoming traffic by placing appropriate signs an adequate distance before and after the work zone. Your vehicle should be equipped with flashing lights, such as a rotating beacon or strobe, use them. Also use the four-way flashers. When conditions warrant use a spotter. Drivers are often distracted, or unaware of the hazards they pose to workers in the traffic lanes. Watch out for them. Plan out before hand where you will want to park. It may be necessary to post no parking signs in heavily congested downtown areas just to have a safe place to park your vehicle. Schedule the placement of counters to avoid working high volume streets during peak hours. Do the side street setups when the arterials and collectors are busy. Have all of the supplies needed to complete the setup before leaving the shop. I know this sounds silly but not having the right nail or tape can cause a lot of undesirable stress in the field. Wear eye protection when driving PK nails, either safety glasses or goggles.

A TimeMark Incorporated

Mini-Manual

Check with your public works and community development departments to verify that no construction, or events will interfere with your count. Maintain a positive attitude. Remember, the job you perform is more hazardous than almost any other occupation. Staying alert means stayi ng al ive.

",

Remember, no one needs a count so badly that safety or risk factors should be ignored. OK, enough said. I don't mean to preach, but too many road workers are getting injured out there, and no one can look out for you as well as you can.

Selecting the Layout

Layout decisions are directly affected by two main factors: traffic characteristics and the type of data desired. Don't make the job any harder than necessary. First determine what kind of data (Class, Volume, Speed, or want to collect. Then make a best guess as to traffic volume. layouts have been designed to handle specific traffic patterns best in conditions that match their capabilities always try to counter and layout to the task. Gap) you Because and work match the

The following section will have illustrations of individual road tube layouts as used by TimeMark I nc. counters. Each layout will be described in detail as to the type of data that can be collected using it. A layout do's and don'ts. And how to properly set it out.

Layout Numbers 11,31,21

11

31

21

.- --

-- -

~=__
~

=I_----.:===-.

+~ ?=rlell

~
~.

~:

Types of Data:
Raw Data or Volume. Layout 11 is used to collect data in the form of simple axle strikes. These are then simply added together into time intervals and multiplied by an Axle Factor to determine volume.

Road Tube Basics

Layout 31 is used to collect directional data in the form A,B - A (Total strikes on A, (Total Strikes on B Minus Total Strikes on A)). Layout 21 is used to collect directional data on streets divided by a median strip, and operates the same as a layout 11.

Limitations:
Because the upper limit for vehicle detection with these layouts using TimeMark counters is as high as 800 vehicles per minute, placement on high volume roadways is not a concern. This applies to all TimeMark counters set to either Raw or Vol ume when used in these configurations. The limitations of these layouts are related to the type of data that may be extracted by analysis. For basic volume counting they can't be beat. However no classification data may be extracted, and for layout 11 there is no way to determine volumes by direction. In Raw Data mode it is possible to extract Axle counts, Gaps, and One Tube Speeds. Shadowing caused by vehicles in the near lane (the lane closest to the counter) may cause a small percentage of the total volume to be lost during high volume periods, but these losses are usually minimal.

Placement:
Tubes may be placed as illustrated, or extended over more or less lanes oftrafficas needed for layouts 11, and 21. Layout 31 may be used in several ways to separate directional traffic, or a layout 32 (same as 31 only for one way traffic) may be used to separate turning lane volumes from through traffic.

Recommendations:
Use layout 11 on sites where non-directional vehicle volumes are needed.

Use Layout 31 to separate directional traffic volumes and Layout 32 to separate lane volumes. It is important that the lanes be well divided or separated for bidirectional studies using layout 31 or negative numbers may be recorded for vehicles going from B to A. Layout 21 is handy for divided roadways, but can also work anytime a dual separated volume is needed such as tracking volumes on an off ramp and the adjacent highway at the same time. If an exceptionally long study needs to be conducted (over 2 weeks) on high volume roadways use the volume mode of the counter to do the study but for normal traffic levels use the Raw Data mode.

A TimeMark Incorporated

Mini-Manual

Tube Placement:

",

Keep in mind the basic rules for placing counters near intersections when placing these layouts. It is not necessary to have the tube impacted by both wheels on an axle for the vehicle to be counted. Only the wheel closest to the counter will be detected. This allows the use of short hoses that only reach to the middle of the first lane or right turn lane for single lane counts or to the middle of the far lane for bidirectional studies. Keep in mind that vehicles passing over the hoses in opposite directions simultaneously may be masked or "shadowed" by the vehicle closest to the counter and that this tendency increases as more lanes are added to the study area. On multilane (three or more lanes) conducted on one way streets with high volumes, try to place the counter on the side of the street with the least amount of traffic. If that is impossible consider using two counters. For Layouts 31,32 the distance between the A hose and the B hose should be a from 12 to 14 inches when using a long and a short hose, and should be 18 to 24 inches when using hoses of equal length.

Layout Numbers 51, 52

51

52

-~

.-

--

I~

A_::L.C- B

---'
Types of Data:

~I'

11-

Raw Data only. Data collected using these layouts may be analyzed for vehicle count, classification, speed, and gap studies.

Limitations:
Use this layout for bidirectional or multi-Iane (up to two lanes) studies with volumes of 5,000 total vehicles per day (ADT) or less. There is no limit to the number of vehicles that may be accurately detected for single lane studies.

Road Tube Basics

Placement:
The rules for placement mirror the rules of the previously discussed layouts. Because the counter uses time stamped events in the analysis process, placement of this counter should be in an area where traffic is as free flowing as possible. Avoid areas where traffic may queue up over the hoses as this causes strikes to be lost when vehicles are stopped on the hose. The layout will work equally well with distances from 5 to 20 feet between hoses, but accuracy may be affected by vehicle shadowing during peak hour traffic on high volume roads when using shorter spacing between hoses. Pick a distance (1 like 16 feet) and stick with it for all layouts using spaced hoses. By staying consistent there won't be any question about what distance you used for a particular study.

Recommendations:
A ver y effective layout on any two lane roadway whether bidirectional or one way. This layout is ideally suited for streets that have poor lane control such as residential streets, narrow streets, or streets that don't have any lane markings where more than just a simple volume study is needed. The software uses the time stamped events in the order received (A to B, or B to A) to determine direction. This allows for accurate counts even when vehicles are running down the center of the roadway. Additionally speed, classification, and gap may be derived from the same data. In order to assure that the time stamps are recorded properly two critical factors need to be addressed. The distance between the hoses, and the length of the hoses. The pulse travels through the hose at a fixed speed of around 860 MPH. Because the pulse speed is constant, it is possible to determine vehicle speeds by multiplying the elapsed time between hose strikes by the distance between the hoses. Using the speed in inches per second the distance between axles, number ofaxles, and so on may be derived from the time stamps produced by the following axles.

,-

A TimeMark Incorporated

Mini-Manual

Road Tubes Layout (Diagram)

", ,,
B

----

16'
Measure 16' from the "A" tube and make a "V" mark on the roadway. Do this at both ends.

Y I

--

16'
I

.-_1

~I
I

The distance between the hoses needs to be a MEASURED distance. No guess work is allowed here. Place the first hose (the A hose) across the roadway and secure. Using a tape measure and a piece of chalk or keel (Iarge crayon) mark a V, with the tip of the V at the point where the hose needs cross. Do this adjacent to the nails on the first hose you put down. Then when the second hose (the B hose) is secured verify that it lines up with the marks. The overall length of the hoses is important. Start with hoses of equal length and stretch them equally when applying tension.

1'--I

.~.

Road Tube Basics

Layout Number 67, 68

67
~

68

...

---A

ftll

e
D

-A

_.
B

+-+
ft

Types of Data:
Raw Data only. Data collected using these layouts may be analyzed for vehicle count, classification, speed, and gap studies.

Limitations:
For roadways with total vehicle volumes exceeding 5,000 per day the layouts above are ideal but they may be used on lower volumes as well . The advantage of 4 tubes over 2 is related to the shadowing caused by high volumes on roadways.

Placement:
The rules for placement mirror the rules of the previously discussed layouts. Because the counter uses time stamped events in the analysis process, placement of this counter should be in an area where traffic is as free flowing as possible. Avoid areas where traffic may queue up over the hoses as this causes strikes to be lost when vehicles are stopped on the hose. The layout will work equally well with distances from 5 to 20 feet between hoses, but accuracy may be affected by vehicle shadowing during peak hour traffic on high volume roads when using shorter spacing between hoses. Pick a distance (1 like 16 feet) and stick with it for all layouts using spaced hoses. By staying consistent there won't be any question about what distance you used for a particular study.

Recommendations:
A ver y effective layout on any two lane roadway whether bidirectional or one way when vehicle volumes exceed 5,000 vehicles per day. This layout is ideally suited for streets with good lane control and high volumes.

...

~---~------_._------

--------------------------------------

A TimeMark Incorporated Mini-Manual

The software uses the time stamped events in the order received (A to B, or Oto C) to determine direction and deducts strikes received on A from the B total, and likewise for e to D. Speed, classification, and gap studies may be derived from the same data. In order to assure that the time stamps are recorded properly two critical factors need to be addressed. The distance between the hoses, and the length of the hoses. The pulse travels through the hose at a fixed speed of around 860 M PH. Because the pulse speed is constant, it is possible to determine vehicle speeds by multiplying the elapsed time between hose strikes by the distance between the hoses. Using the speed in inches per second the distance between axles, number ofaxles, and so on may be derived from the time stamps produced by the following axles. The distance between the hoses needs to be a MEASURED distance. No guess work is allowed here.

",

Layout#67,#68

Layout 67 and 68 Hose Spacings

Regular Tube Set (Equal Lengths) 10 to 40 MPH = 9" 20 to 80 MPH = 18" ~ Special Tube Set (Long and Short) 5 to 40 MPH = 4" 30 to 80 MPH = 6"

16'

-,\ -- - :'1
16'
I
:

2r
~

10

Road Tube Basics

Place the second hose (that's right, the B hose) across the roadway and secure it. Using a tape measure and a piece of chalk or keel (Iarge crayon) mark a V, with the tip of the V at the point where the D hose needs cross. Do this adjacent to the nails on the first hose you put down. When the second hose (the D hose) is secured, verify that it lines up with the marks. The A and C hoses are placed in front of the B and D hoses. If the hoses used are short and long, the distance between the A and B (and the C and D) hose should be 4 inches for vehicle speeds up to 40 M PH, and 6 i nches for speeds over 40 M PH. If all of the hoses used are the same length, place the A hose 9 inches in front or the B hose (ditto for the C hose in front of the D hose) for speeds up to 40 M PH, or 18 i nches if speeds average between 20 and 80 M PH . The overalllength of the hoses is important. Start with hoses of equal length and stretch them equally (about 10 to 15 percent of the overall lenqth.of the tubing in the roadway on an individual basis) when applying tension. Coil any excess hose next to the counter neatly. Remember the A and C hoses go in front of the B and D hoses (that is towards the oncoming traffic) with this layout. Double check the hose connections and verify that the hoses are connected to the proper nipple.

11

A TimeMark Incorporated

Mini-Manual

Layout Number 65

",
65

e
B
- -

+-

=3_I<J
A
~

Types of Data:
Raw Data Data only. Data collected using this layout may be analyzed for vehicle eount, classifieation, speed, and gap studies.

Limitations:
Use this layout for divided roadway bidireetional multi-Iane (up to two lanes) studies with volumes of 5,000 total vehicles per day (ADT) or less. There is no limit to the number of vehieles that may be aeeurately deteeted for divided roadway single lane studies.

Placement:
The rules for plaeement mirror the rules of the previously discussed layouts. Beeause the counter uses time stamped events in the analysis proeess, placement of this counter should be in an area where traffie is as free flowing as possible. Avoid areas where traffie may queue up over

12

Road Tube Basics

the hoses as this causes strikes to be lost when vehicles are stopped on the hose. The layout will work equally well with distances from 5 to 20 feet between hoses, but accuracy may be affected by vehicle shadowing during peak hour traffic on high volume roads when using shorter spacing between hoses. Pick a distance (1 like 16 feet) and stick with it for all layouts using spaced hoses. By staying consistent there won't be any question about what distance you used for a particular study.

Recommendations:
A ver y effective layout on any four lane (two lanes each side) divided roadway with vehicle volumes of 5,000 or less per side (possible total of 10,000). You may also use this layout on any two lane (one lane on each side) divided roadway with no limit on the number of vehicles. The software uses the time stamped events on each side of the street in the order received (A to B, or e to D) to determine direction. Speed, c1assification, and gap may be derived from the same data. In order to assure that the time stamps are recorded properly two critical factors need to be addressed. The distance between the hoses, and the length of the hoses. The pulse travels through the hose at a fixed speed of around 860 M PH. Because the pulse speed is constant, it is possible to determine vehicle speeds by multiplying the elapsed time between hose strikes by the distance between the hoses. Using the speed in inches per second the distance between axles, number ofaxles, and so on may be derived from the time stamps produced by the following axles. The distance between the hoses needs to be a M EA SU RED distance. No guess work is allowed here. Place the first hose (the A hose) across the roadway and secure. Using a tape measure and a piece of chalk or keel (Iarge crayon) mark a V, with the tip of the V at the poi nt where the second hose needs cross. Do this adjacent to the nails on the first hose you put down. Then when the second hose (the B hose) is secured verify that it lines up with the marks. The overall length of the hoses is important. Use the same process for the e and D hoses. Start with hoses of equallength and stretch them equally when applying tension.

13

A TimeMark Incorporated

Mini-Manual

Layout Number 41

",
41
'~".'

-.....

+~ l'
I~

-""'.".

-+
A
~I

Types of Data:
Raw Data only, Data collected using this layout may be analyzed for directional volumes, one tube speeds, and gap. This layout is ideally suited for unmarked, poorly controlled, low volume residential streets.

Limitations:
This layout was specifically designed to be used to collect accurate vehicle volumes in areas that are often difficult or impossible to get directional information because of poor lane control. It is not recommended that it be used on streets with high volumes (above 5,000 vehicles) or on streets with high percentages of multi-axle vehicles.

14

Road Tube Basics

Recommendations:
Use this layout in residential areas, when counting driveways (if vehicles are entering straight) or anywhere poor lane control, or low volume and low speed vehicles present problems for other study types. The software uses the time stamped events on each side of the street in the order received (A to B, or B to A) to determine direction. One tube speed and gap may be derived from the same data. In order to assure that the time stamps are recorded properly two critical factors need to be addressed. The distance between the hoses, and the length of the hoses. The pulse travels through the hose at a fixed speed of around 860 M PH. The software uses the time stamps received in the order A to B and B to A to determine vehicle direction. The hoses need to be placed four inches apart. This distance is critical because the software will ignore axle strikes where the time stamps are too far apart. The hoses also need to be the same length (including any stretch) because a difference in hose length of just over a foot can cause the readings to be backwards.

PNEUMATIC ROAD TUBE

There are several standards for roadtube that are used around the country. Although roadtube is not the most ideal sensor, it is inexpensive and easy to work with. There are several things of which you need to be aware. A roadtube recorder "senses" an axle by detecting a pressure wave created when a tire depresses the hollow roadtube. There are several variables which will change that pressure wave. Keep in mind though that changing these variables will make only small differences in the data as a general rule. Currently available roadtube types will be described as to material and uses. TimeMark has a road tube tester available for purchase (Basicon Model 1110) that gives visual confirmation of the pulse strength to verify that it is strong enough to assure that data will be collected.

Rubber

VS.

EDPM
There two different formulas for roadtube. Natural rubber is the oldest, most common and generally the least expensive. The EDPM formula was developed to produce a longer lasting roadtube that is heat resistant. Roadtube made from EDPM are more rigid than natural rubber and tend to become hard in cold weather.

15

A TimeMark Incorporated

Mini-Manual

Inside Diameter

",

There are basically two diameters available for roadtube, 3/8 and "X inch. TimeMark recorders are designed to work with either type. Keep in mind that the smaller diameter tubing will produce a smaller less powerful wave. This in turn places a practical limit on the total length that may be used in a study when using the smaller diameter.

Round vs. "D" tube

There are two different shapes available for roadtube. The most commonly used round tubing previously described, and a "D" shaped version. The "D" tube is available in both natural rubber and EDPM. The "D" roadtube was developed to help prevent the rolling that often occurs when a tire impacts a round tube. "D" tube also seems to give sharper more defined pressure waves when impacted which results in slightly more accurate speed and class data. "D" tube tends to be more rigid in cold weather so exercise care when placing in colder climates.

Temperature
Higher temperatures cause the roadtube to become softer and less rigid. This creates a wave that may not be as clean as with lower temperatures. Lower temperatures tend to make the roadtube more rigid resulting in sharper but less powerful signals.

Length of tube
For all TimeMark counter classifiers, use tube lengths of between 25 and 75 feet. With a few minor adjustments it is possible to use longer or shorter lengths as needed. The less tube there is from the tire to the recorder the more powerful the signal. There are four pulse signals generated when a vehicle axle impacts the roadtube. The one nearest the counter will be recorded as a time stamped event, but on the other side of the tire (between the tires) a pulse equal to the detected pulse is sent from both tires at once. These pulses tend to cancel each other out. The pulse on the far side of the vehicle will travel to the end of the tube and be reflected back towards the counter. Because this signal must traverse to the end of the tube and all the way back to the counter it is almost always too weak to initiate another evento

16

Road Tube Basics

For More Information

contact us at:
TimeMark,1 Technical ncorporated Support

P.O. Box 12947 Salem, OR 97309

1.800.454.1015

E-Mail us:
su pport@timemarkinc.com

Our Website:
Or visit our Web site at: http://www.timemarkinc.com

For FAQ's (frequently asked questions), product updates, and the monthly Tech Tips Corner.

17

r-

VIAS Download Certificate

7his certijicate isprovided in lieu of a physical copy ofVIAS (Vehicle Identijication and Analysis System) and isyour proof of purchase. Tbe VIAS software is distributed via Internet download at no charge or may be ordered on a CD [or $25 per copy (plus postage if outside of the Unted States). Please visit our web site at http://www.timemarkinc.com and log in to Customer Support to download VIAS. VIAS is site licensed, allowing it to be installed on any number of macbines at your"physicallocation. A registration code will be required for each system.

Stay Up-To- Date

Tbe latest software is available on our web site. Be sure to check regularly to ensure you always have the most current oersion.

TimeMark Incorporated P.O. Box 12947 Salem OR 97309-0947

E-mail support@timemarkinc.com

Fax

503-363-1716 1-800-454-1015 001-503-363-2012

Telephone In the U.S. International

.--