Distributed Acoustic Sensing

UDOT has one of the most robust, DOT-owned fiber optic networks in the nation. Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), or “fiber sensing”, uses fiber optic cable buried alongside the road to monitor roadways in real time by detecting acoustic events in the vicinity of the fiber, like crashes. This UDOT fiber sensing project will be one of the first in the nation. It aims to provide critical safety and maintenance information.

OVERVIEW

As our vehicles become increasingly connected, they will share billions of data points that can be used by UDOT and the public. This data, coupled with the intelligent transportation systems data that UDOT already has, will be processed in the cloud to create actionable information in real time. This information can then be used by UDOT traffic operators and sent back to connected vehicles to allow drivers to make better decisions.

BENEFITS OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Fiber Sensing allows information to be efficiently transmitted to the UDOT TOC. After information is sent to the TOC, it is then processed and used to inform the public about traffic or weather impacts. Individuals can access traffic and weather impacts on the UDOT Traffic app, see notifications on visual message boards, and get updates through other communication methods. The technology allows UDOT to keep Utah travelers informed, which increases mobility and safety.

Quick Facts

“UDOT’S 2700-MILE FIBER

OPTIC NETWORK SPANS THE

ENTIRE STATE, CONNECTING

URBAN AND RURAL AREAS

AND PROVIDING BORDER-TO-

BORDER COVERAGE.”

WHERE THE TECHNOLOGY IS DEPLOYED

UDOT’s fiber optic network includes 2,700 miles of fiber in both urban and rural areas. The network also provides connectivity to nearly all traffic signals in the state of Utah.