Autonomous VMS Switching from Positional Information Of Gritters

The Autonomous VMS Switching from Positional Information of Gritters (AVSPIG) project demonstrates the feasibility of automating the process of Control Centre operators manually switching Variable Message Signs (VMS) to show ‘Gritting in Progress’ when winter treatments are underway. Using an on-board Global Positioning System (GPS) unit to provide regular updates on the position of the Winter Service Vehicle (WSV), the signs within a predetermined distance are identified and, without any operator intervention, a suitable message is displayed. Similarly, once a WSV is no longer in the vicinity of a particular sign, the message is removed to ensure that only accurate and relevant information is communicated to the public. Trials in 2009 successfully demonstrated this proof of concept system.