Projects
Freeway light meter measurements, typically accomplished via a handheld measurement device can be challenging to collect. This research will investigate the feasibility of using images and recorded video to estimate lighting through predictive modeling and image classification. This model will be fit using light meter readings and images collected from a moving vehicle of streetlights in various settings. Upon acceptable model accuracy, the lighting estimates at the two study sites, I-64 at 22nd street and I-264 at Bank Street, will be collected to compare different streetlights.
EAGER: Characterizing Driver Interactions with Emergency Vehicles. National Science Foundation
This EArly-concept Grant for Exploratory Research (EAGER) funded project explores a new concept on how individual drivers behave during interactions with emergency vehicles (EV) in an experimental, virtual reality setting. Emergency vehicle response is critical to public health, and positive encounters with active emergency vehicles by drivers can both improve response time and reduce the risk of motor vehicle crashes. However, driver tendencies during these interactions are poorly understood, due to limited data availability and high dimensionality. This project designs and tests a novel approach that leverages data and insights from external sources (e.g., the SHRP2 Naturalistic Driving Study and MCity 2.0) to validate experimental models.
Virtual Reality Based Educational Material for
Turbo Roundabout Implementation
Using an upcoming site, installing a pair of turbo roundabouts on ramp terminals on I-24 and US-68 (or a similar site), we will develop a VR model of the site and proposed designs, and prepare some educational material for use with stakeholders in the public, local government, and KYTC district engineers. This VR model will include a microsimulation of the site under the proposed designs, an immersive driving simulator that allows users to experience realistic traffic, and additional features designed to educate stakeholders about the benefits of roundabouts. With our VR system, we will go to meetings at the discretion of KYTC to support the education of stakeholders in navigating a turbo roundabout along with the safety benefits. Users will have the opportunity to engage with the site model via driving, as well as observation and interaction using a VR headset.
Statewide Linkage of Crash, EMS and Trauma Registry Data
In this project, data from three sources will be link for improved traffic safety assessments. Crash data from KY State Police, Emergency Medical Services Data from Kentucky Board of EMS, and State Trauma Registry data from Kentucky Injury Prevention Research Center, are to be linked using a heuristic framework developed within the scope of this project.
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Completed Projects
Modifying Traffic Distribution Patterns via Pavement Marking Enhancements and Lane Channelization on the State Street Corridor in New Albany, Indiana
The objective of this project is to investigate how changes to traffic behaviors on State St. can improve progression and reduce delay and queue length. The project is leveraging Vissim microsimulation software to determine vehicle behaviors and geometric configurations that lead to reduced delays compared to existing conditions. Signage and lane markings will then be used to implement the findings. A Before-After study will quantify the effects after implementation.
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Pilot Study on Improving Crash Data Accuracy in Kentucky through University Collaboration
The primary goal of this study is to improve the quality and accuracy of various elements of crash data in Kentucky. Both machine learning and manual review will be used to identify and correct common miscoding issues. The secondary goal is to strengthen collaboration between the three universities through to integrate research resources and better serve Kentucky’s traffic safety community. This project is collaborative between the University of Louisville, University of Kentucky and Western Kentucky University through the KYTC SPR Program.
Virtual Reality Development and Assessment of Phase 1 of the Main Street Two-Way Cycle Track Project.
The purpose of the this project is to develop, integrate, and evaluate virtual reality technology into the project planning process for Phase 1 of the proposed two-way cycle track on Main Street in Louisville, KY. With upcoming significant changes to roadway geometry, features, and traffic patterns, visualizing proposed changes and identifying potential weaknesses in the proposed built environment can be challenging, particularly for stakeholders who may not be closely involved in the project. Virtual reality offers an immersive experience for users to interact with planned efforts allowing for several benefits. First, it will allow engineers, project team members, and other stakeholders to truly visualize the proposed plans and identify potential weaknesses ahead of finalizing construction plans. Second, it will allow stakeholders and the public to engage with the proposed changes and offer more informed feedback than they would otherwise be able to provide.
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