Using ANPR Technology for Accurate Origin-Destination (O-D) Studies
Origin-Destination (O-D) studies play a critical role in traffic planning, helping transport engineers and urban planners understand where vehicles are coming from and where they are going. Among the various methods used for O-D studies, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) technology has become one of the most reliable, accurate, and scalable solutions in today’s traffic data collection industry.
What is ANPR Technology?
ANPR (also known as ALPR – Automatic License Plate Recognition) is a computer vision technology that uses cameras and software to automatically capture and read vehicle license plates. It’s widely used in traffic monitoring, law enforcement, and tolling systems—but its application in O-D studies is revolutionizing traffic analysis.
High-resolution ANPR cameras are placed at key entry and exit points across a network. As vehicles pass through, their license plates are recorded, timestamped, and logged. This data is then analyzed to track routes, travel time, and trip patterns with minimal manual intervention.
How ANPR is Used in Origin-Destination Traffic Surveys
ANPR-based O-D studies involve placing cameras at multiple strategic locations such as intersections, arterial roads, toll plazas, or entry-exit points of cities. When the same vehicle plate is detected at multiple locations within a time interval, a trip can be traced between those points.
This enables planners to:
Identify popular routes and peak flow directions
Analyze travel time and delays
Determine traffic distribution across the network
Support traffic model validation and forecasting
Benefits of Using ANPR for O-D Studies
1. High Accuracy
ANPR offers unmatched accuracy in identifying vehicles and tracking their movements between two or more points. Unlike manual surveys or Bluetooth tracking, ANPR delivers precision, especially in high-volume scenarios.
2. Minimal Field Staff Required
Once cameras are installed and calibrated, the system runs with minimal human involvement. This reduces labor costs and eliminates risks associated with field data collection.
3. 24/7 Operation
ANPR systems can work continuously, capturing data day and night—even in challenging weather conditions—thanks to infrared and high-speed imaging capabilities.
4. Faster Processing
Data collected through ANPR can be processed using automated software, speeding up the turnaround time for report generation.
5. Scalability
Whether you need to monitor a small junction or an entire city-wide road network, ANPR systems can scale according to your project scope.
Why Choose Traffic Data Count for ANPR-Based O-D Studies?
At Traffic Data Count, we specialize in high-accuracy ANPR data collection. Our systems are capable of handling high traffic volumes and provide:
98%+ plate capture rates
Multi-location vehicle tracking
GDPR-compliant data storage and reporting
Integration with other technologies like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi trackers
Our expert team ensures camera positioning, lighting, and calibration are optimized for the best possible results in every project.
Conclusion
ANPR-based Origin-Destination studies provide transportation planners and authorities with robust, reliable, and scalable traffic insights. When accuracy, automation, and real-time reporting matter, ANPR stands out as a cutting-edge solution.
Ready to plan your next O-D survey with ANPR?
📩 Contact the specialists at Traffic Data Count to discuss your requirements today.
