Travel Time Estimation on Tollways Based on Bluetooth Scanner Data

Abstract

Travel time is one of the most important factors that help traveler making decisions and choosing the appropriate route. Furthermore, it also helps road authorities to manage traffic and solve traffic problems efficiently. Therefore, travel time information is necessary to be highly accurate and reliable. The objective of this paper is to develop the method for estimating travel time based on Bluetooth scanner data, which is a relatively new technology that has recently implemented in Thailand. MAC Addresses of entertainment devices and mobile phones in vehicles were detected by the Bluetooth scanners installed along the Don Mueang Tollway. The researchers have developed the process of data collection, data filtering, and travel time estimation. Moreover, we have compared Bluetooth travel time accuracy with the actual travel time. Additionally, the penetration rate calculated based on number of MAC Addresses and traffic count collected from the video image processing cameras. The results showed that travel time estimated from the Bluetooth scanners can be used to inform travelers and road authorities to manage traffic.