Vaisala has introduced a new road surface state sensor that measures the road surface conditions more accurately than traditional sensors. It measures the road surface in real-time, and distinguishes between water, snow, ice, slush and hoarfrost. The sensor is based on infrared optics and laser technology. What makes it unique is that it helps its users to determine the friction coefficient of the road, and therefore identify the prevailing driving conditions.
The new sensor will serve as an effective decision-making tool for winter maintenance authorities. Road salting, vital for traffic safety, can now be better timed, which reduces both costs and the strain on the environment. The sensor can also be used in other road weather applications, such as weather adaptable speed limit systems, maintenance quality control, maintenance of walkways and garage slopes, as well as with automatic deicer spraying systems.
The new road surface state sensor differs from traditional sensors also in that it is installed differently. Previously, sensors have been installed on the road surface. The new sensors are installed to 3-10 meters on a post by the road side, which makes installations and maintenance work much easier, and less dependent on weather conditions or timing.
The sensor has been developed in cooperation with the Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT) and the Finnish Road Administration. Before official sales launch, it has been in trial use in Finland, UK, and the United States.
Vaisala has also introduced a new sensor for road surface temperature measurement.
The Vaisala Group is a successful international technology company that develops and manufactures electronic measurement systems and equipment for meteorology, environmental sciences, traffic safety and industry. Vaisala employs over 1,000 professionals and achieved net sales of EUR 180.6 million in 2004. Vaisala serves customers throughout the world. In 2004, exports outside Finland accounted for 97% of net sales. Vaisala's A-series shares are quoted on the Helsinki Stock Exchange.