Computerized Heavy-Vehicle Size and Weight Regulations Data Base

Abstract

Policy, management, and technical decisions affecting highway infrastructure, truck operations, and regulatory enforcement, among other factors affecting the trucking industry require information on the types and operating characteristics of heavy vehicles. This information is contained in the set of regulations governing the sizes and weights of these vehicles and is traditionally provided in print medium. The results of a novel attempt to computerize these regulations and store them in a data base are presented. The platform used for the data base is user friendly, flexible, easily accessible, and interactive; sketches of vehicles can be included and information can be protected through definition of user passwords. It is demonstrated that even though industry regulations are complex, specific to jurisdiction, and varied in a number of respects, it is possible to capture the most important variables in a data base. It is also possible to enhance the utility and scope of the data base by interfacing with a geographic information system and to include other variables, such as the dynamic and operational performance attributes of heavy vehicles. The data base has limitations, among them that it cannot capture all descriptive details of the set of regulations and that it serves as an information base only and cannot be used as a legal document.