Traffic characterization and road categorization

Abstract

This thesis looks into the ability to collect driving data reliably and cost-effectively, characterize driving behavior, categorize roads, and finally link all together in a way to minimize the fuel consumption in cars. Using an OBDII scanner, a Smartphone, and an accelerometer, we were able to collect data from various types of cars. Then, we used Matlab in order to analyze the data and compare them visually. We found out that using a Smartphone's built-in GPS and accelerometer is sufficient to record all the basic information required to enable us to model driving behavior and characterize roads. This thesis also aims at establishing a basis for future work to determine how driving patterns relate to fuel consumption.