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ITS construction projects are comprised of many specialized system components requiring the inspector to be knowledgeable in a variety of construction disciples and processes. The quality of construction and system installations has a tremendous impact on the operational effectiveness and the reoccurring maintenance cost associated with ITS subsystems. FDOT has prepared ITS-specific Quality Checklists to support the inspector with monitoring the quality of construction. These checklists address the different types of ITS facilities and the different construction methods used to deploy them. Some key benefits derived from the use of ITS Quality Checklists include:
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The following sections provide a narrative description for the different types of facilities and deployment methods, and include the key elements of inspection and reference to the appropriate FDOT specifications that address these items.
- ITS Conduit System Access Points
- ITS Conduit System
- Designating System and Route Markers
- ITS Devices
- Fiber Optic Cable
- Primary & Secondary Power
- ITS Support Structure
- Cabinet Inspection
- Wireless Communications
- Equipment Integration and Testing
ITS Conduit System Access Points
Description:
ITS Conduit System Access Points consist of Splice Vaults and Pull Boxes and are utilized to provide access to the conduit system
for the installation, operation and maintenance of fiber optic and electrical cables. Splice vaults are used along the primary or
backbone ITS conduit system housing fiber optic cables and pull boxes are used when conduit extends from the backbone conduit
system to the ITS field device location. Two types of pull boxes are typically used, electrical and fiber optic. The electrical
and fiber optic conduit may be installed in the same trench or conduit bundle, but the access points for the two "electrical and
communication" should be separate.
Key elements for the inspection of the access point installation include:
- Vault and pull box placement (i.e., installation offsets and elevation)
- Final lid elevation is flush with finish grade
- Access point penetrations are sealed and conduits are plugged
- Cables are tagged.
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM001 | Fiber Splice Vaults and Pull boxes |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 635 - Pull and Junction Boxes
Section 783-3 - Pull Box and Splice Box
ITS Conduit System
Description:
The ITS Conduit System consists of several different types and configurations of conduit and
pipes to form the infrastructure that provides the pathway necessary to install, operate and maintain fiber optic and electrical
cables between Regional Traffic Management Centers (RTMCs), and the ITS devices. Several construction methods are typically used
to install the conduit system including the trench, plow, horizontal bore, directional bore and bridge attachment methods.
Key elements for the inspection of the conduit system installation include:
- Conduit placement (i.e., running line offsets and installation depths)
- Conduit field bends do not exceed the maximum bending radius
- Proper conduit joints and splices
- Trench backfill and compaction
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM002 | Conduit Placement - Bridge Attachment |
| ITSFM003 | Conduit Placement - Directional Bore |
| ITSFM004 | Conduit Placement - Horizontal Bore |
| ITSFM005 | Conduit Placement - Plow |
| ITSFM006 | Conduit Placement - Trench |
| ITSFM007 | Existing Utility Separation |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 630 - Conduit
Designating System and Route Markers
Description:
The Conduit Designating System provides visual notification of the presence of the underground ITS conduit/cable
system as well as provides a means for electronically locating the dielectric conduit system. The Designating
System consists of several components, including electronic markers, route markers, above-ground and underground
tone wire access points, underground tone wires, wire grounding units (WGU), and ground rods. The designating
system provides a means to identify, locate, and protect the ITS conduit system.
Key elements for the inspection of the designating system installation include:
- Tone wire placement and splicing
- System grounding, and testing
- Route Marker installation and spacing
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM008 | Tone Wire Installation |
| ITSFM009 | Route Marker Installation |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 783-2 - Conduit and Locate System
ITS Devices
Description:
ITS device placement is critical for effective performance and the delivery of real time data and video to a central
location for analysis and dissemination to affected parties for traffic and incident management. Dynamic message signs
(DMSs) need to be installed so that messages can be safely and effectively viewed by motorists to allow for proper motorist
reaction. Radar Detection Systems (RDS) are positioned along the highway to monitor traffic, but need to be strategically
located to minimize background interference that may cause less than optimal RDS operation.
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are located for optimal views of the highway avoiding trees, buildings and other obstacles that would obscure view. Portable highway advisory radios (HAR) are located along the highway to advice motorists of traffic conditions or broadcast public safety announcements. The device location should be away from any source of radio frequency interference (RFI), and their optimal elevation should be level to, or above, the roadway and not obscured by hills, trees, or other large obstacles to maximize operational range. Portable variable message signs (PVMS) should be located with similar considerations as with the DMS but offer the flexibility in that they can serve a particular area and then quickly be removed and re-deployed to another location.
Key elements for device placement inspection include:
- Monitoring the attachment height and orientation of the device being mounted
- Proper mounting hardware is utilized
- Monitoring device assembly and attribute documentation
- Monitoring device pre-test before installation.
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM010 | CCTV Camera Installation |
| ITSFM011 | Dynamic Message Sign Installation |
| ITSFM012 | RDS Unit Installation |
| ITSFM013 | Steel Overhead Sign Installation |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 781-1 - Dynamic Message Sign
Section 781-2 - Highway Advisory Radio
Section 782-1 - CCTV Camera
Section 786-1 - Microwave Vehicle Detection System
Section 786-2 - Video Vehicle Detection System
Section 786-4 - Acoustic Detection System
Section 786-5 - Road Weather Information System
Fiber Optic Cable
Description:
ITS device placement is critical for effective performance and the delivery of real time data and video to a central
location for analysis and dissemination to affected parties for traffic and incident management. Dynamic message signs
(DMSs) need to be installed so that messages can be safely and effectively viewed by motorists to allow for proper
motorist reaction. Radar Detection Systems (RDS) are positioned along the highway to monitor traffic, but need to be
strategically located to minimize background interference that may cause less than optimal RDS operation.
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are located for optimal views of the highway avoiding trees, buildings and other obstacles that would obscure view. Portable highway advisory radios (HAR) are located along the highway to advice motorists of traffic conditions or broadcast public safety announcements. The device location should be away from any source of radio frequency interference (RFI), and their optimal elevation should be level to, or above, the roadway and not obscured by hills, trees, or other large obstacles to maximize operational range. Portable variable message signs (PVMS) should be located with similar considerations as with the DMS but offer the flexibility in that they can serve a particular area and then quickly be removed and re-deployed to another location.
Key elements for device placement inspection include:
- Monitoring the attachment height and orientation of the device being mounted
- Proper mounting hardware is utilized
- Monitoring device assembly and attribute documentation
- Monitoring device pre-test before installation.
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM014 | Fiber Optic Cable Installation |
| ITSFM015 | Fiber Optic Cable Splicing & Termination |
| ITSFM016 | Fiber Optic Cable Testing |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 781-1 - Dynamic Message Sign
Section 781-2 - Highway Advisory Radio
Section 782-1 - CCTV Camera
Section 786-1 - Microwave Vehicle Detection System
Section 786-2 - Video Vehicle Detection System
Section 786-4 - Acoustic Detection System
Section 786-5 - Road Weather Information System
Primary & Secondary Power
Description:
ITS Electrical Power Systems differ from other ITS elements in several distinct ways. For instance, power is a non-passive component
in the system. If not properly installed, it can endanger personnel, and damage ITS equipment. Another differentiator involves the
coordination of third-party utility companies to obtain and manage electrical service. As a result, logistics become more complicated
when jointly establishing demarcation points for load centers.
The ITS Power System utilizes several components designed to minimize danger to personnel and devices, and efficiently distribute power to ITS devices downstream from the electrical service point. Some of these devices limit the flow of current, such as surge protectors, breakers, and grounding devices, while others transmit and distribute power such as cables, load centers, and transformers. It is imperative that the power components of the ITS are installed properly and conform to designed specifications
Key elements for the inspection of the Power System include:
- Connections of cables to equipment
- Installation of grounding systems
- Placement of cables in conduits
- Installation of equipment to access boxes
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM017 | Back-up Power Installation |
| ITSFM018 | Load Center Installation |
| ITSFM019 | Power Cable and Pull box Installation |
| ITSFM020 | Surge Protection & Transient Voltage Surge Suppression Installation |
| ITSFM021 | Utility Demarcation Point Installation |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 508 - Electrical Construction for Moveable Bridges
Section 785-1 - Grounding & Transient Voltage Surge Suppression
ITS Support Structure
Description:
ITS Support Structures for devices and subsystems vary to need and applicability. Typically, ITS subsystem components are
installed on their own structure, which includes poles of varying materials or sign structures that are either cantilever
or overhead truss, and they are usually a structural steel configuration located within the highway right-of-way (ROW).
Moreover, some subsystems are trailer mounted and can be quickly deployed to strategic locations to maximize operational
effectiveness. Example types are the PHAR and the PVMS.
The process of receiving and transmitting data, resulting in the ability to monitor and alert vehicular or pedestrian traffic, requires a variety of ITS devices ranging from cameras, to DMSs, to wireless antennas. These devices must be readily visible to their target users or their purpose is defeated. That generally requires the devices to be mounted in overhead locations requiring ancillary support structures.
These support structures are installed in locations to maximize the effectiveness of the devices mounted to them. Typically, ITS support structures are installed in close proximity to moving traffic. To guard public safety, it is critical that special attention is focused on monitoring the installation process to ensure its designed structural integrity is met.
Key elements for the inspection of the ITS support structure installation includes:
- Drill shaft installation
- Concrete pre/post placement inspection
- Pole erection
- Anchoring pole to foundation
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM022 | Device Pole Installation |
| ITSFM023 | Drilling Foundation Shafts Installation |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 641 - Pre-stressed Concrete Poles
Section 649 - Steel Strain Poles, Steel Mast Arms & Mono-tube Assemblies
Section 785-2 - Pole and Lowering Device
Cabinet Inspection
Description:
During the construction phase, it is essential to maintain thorough subsystem cabinet inspection in order to ensure dependable
subsystem operation. Depending on the type of subsystem served, the cabinet will likely house sensitive micro-processing
equipment, local power distribution panels, fiber optic splices, local control panels, local telephone utility interfaces,
solar power interfaces, digital radio devices, and so on. The construction location of the cabinet and the orientation of the
cabinet are critical. It is important that the cabinet is installed in its intended location, so it can avoid conflict with
anything that may strike it such as mowers, vehicles, and debris thrown from moving vehicles. Likewise, the cabinet should be
placed facing its design orientation, allowing a technician to keep an eye on the roadway while accessing the cabinet.
The cabinet itself acts as an environment for the devices or interfaces mounted inside it. In order to protect the electronic devices within, cooling fans and heaters are sometimes added to control the temperature and humidity.
Key elements for cabinet inspection include:
- Monitoring cabinet installation location
- Documenting cabinet component attributes and position within cabinet
- Ensure the functionality of cabinet components
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM024 | ITS Field Device Cabinet Installation |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 785-3 - Field Cabinet
Section 785-4 - Equipment Shelter
Wireless Communications
Description:
Wireless Communications generally consists of a typical configuration of wireless radio and antenna equipment, communications
and power interface, lightning protection, grounding, and a cabinet/enclosure to transport information (data, voice, and video)
via the backbone and/or distribution communications network between the RTMC and the ITS field devices. Installation of the
wireless communications involves correct mounting and grounding of the wireless radios and antennas, accurate alignment of
antennas, and proper lightening protection for all related equipment.
Key elements for the inspection of the wireless communications installation include:
- Antenna installation and alignment (i.e., verify height, elevation, azimuth, proper alignment)
- Antenna transmission line installation and connections (i.e., verify proper connections and attachments)
- Proper radio mounting, grounding and connections
- Proper grounding of antenna and lighting rod
- Antenna installation and alignment (i.e., verify height, elevation, azimuth, proper alignment)
- Antenna transmission line installation and connections (i.e., verify proper connections and attachments)
- Proper radio mounting, grounding and connections
- Proper grounding of antenna and lighting rod
| Form Number | Title |
| ITSFM025 | Antenna Installation |
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 620 - Signal Installation Grounding
Section 780 - Intelligent Transportation Systems General Requirements
Section 785 - Intelligent Transportation Systems Infrastructure
Equipment Integration and Testing
Description:
Equipment integration and testing is critical in the project acceptance stage of ITS facility deployment. Several stages of testing
are necessary to ensure the system devices are operative before, during, and following facility installation.
Subsystem testing stages include:
- Factory Testing
- Bench Testing
- Standalone Testing
- Final System Acceptance Testing
Factory Testing (FT) of a subsystem such as for a DMS is an operational test that verifies all required subsystem functions and is typically completed and approved before shipment of the device or subsystem to the project.
A Bench Test (BT) is similar to the Factory Test, but it proves that the subsystem is operational. This test may include all components of a particular subsystem or a combination of subsystems, as may be required.
Standalone Testing (ST) is a field site acceptance test of a particular individual subsystem like an RDS but may also include other subsystems that may help demonstrate that the RDS is functioning as required.
Final System Acceptance Testing (FSAT) is performed from the RTMC where all subsystems are reporting data and video. These tests are typically performed utilizing the subsystem vendor software to prove system functionality. Subject to the contract requirements and as a second step to the Systems Test it will be required that all subsystems functions perform acceptably when controlled with the RTMC central software. The central software centralizes the control of the subsystems by eliminating the need to use multiple sets of subsystem vendor software.
Most ITS projects require the contractor to prepare project-specific test plans for approval by FDOT prior to the start of any testing. The CE&I must review and understand the approved test plans prior to witnessing any subsystem test.
Key Elements:
- Approved FT Plan
- Approved BT Plan
- Approved ST Plan
- Approved FSAT Plan
Reference Specification:
FDOT Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction 2004
Section 780-5 - Testing
For additional information, please contact Randy Pierce at Randy.Pierce@dot.state.fl.us
