Specifications include, but are not limited to: Evaluate the measuring systems. The selected responder will first gather information on the current commercially available systems for indoor stockpile measurement, including systems used in other industries, such as agriculture or aggregate mining. Next, the investigator will survey transportation agencies about their current methods of indoor salt stockpile measurement and inventory management, conducting follow-up interviews if necessary.The Responder will then field-test 4 to 6 commercially available systems in salt storage facilities of various configurations (rectangular, dome, etc.) to compare the systems’ functionality, features and benefits. Test parameters should include accuracy, required staff time (training and use), ease of use, durability, mounting and maintenance requirements, vendor responsiveness, and compatibility with inventory management systems. Finally, the Responder will analyze the test results and develop guidance for Clear Roads agencies on how to select and implement a system that meets their specific needs.Clear Roads has previously examined the methods agencies employ to monitor their stockpiles of solid winter maintenance materials. Clear Roads project 16-S2 (ht tp://clearroads.org/project/16-S2/) produced a synthesis report that included discussions of indoor stockpile monitoring, including robotic track systems and various 3D laser-scanning methods. While agencies have explored a range of indoor measuring technologies from such suppliers as Stockpile Reports, GeoSLAM, BinMaster, and Carlson Software, a comprehensive comparative investigation of a range of systems would provide beneficial information to all Clear Roads member states.
