1.1 Weigh-In-Motion—This specification describes Weigh-In-Motion (WIM), the process of measuring the dynamic tire forces of a moving vehicle and estimating the corresponding tire loads of the static vehicle. Gross-vehicle weight of a highway vehicle is due only to the local force of gravity acting upon the composite mass of all connected vehicle components, and is distributed among the tires of the vehicle through connectors such as springs, motion dampers, and hinges. Highway WIM systems are capable of estimating the gross weight of a vehicle as well as the portion of this weight, called load in this specification, that is carried by the tires of each wheel assembly, axle, and axle group on the vehicle.

1.2 Other Traffic Data—Ancillary traffic data concerning the speed, lane of operation, date and time of passage, number and spacing of axles, and classification (according to axle arrangement) of each vehicle that is weighed in motion is desired for certain purposes. It is feasible for a WIM system to measure or calculate these traffic parameters and to process, summarize, store, display, record, hard-copy, and transmit the resulting data. Furthermore, differences in measured or calculated parameters as compared with selected control criteria can be detected and indicated to aid enforcement. In addition to tire-load information, a WIM system is capable of producing all, or specified portions of, these traffic data.

1.3 Standard Specification—Highway WIM systems generally have three applications: collecting statistical traffic data, aiding enforcement, and enforcement. This specification classifies four types of WIM systems according to their application and details their respective functional, performance, and user requirements. It is a performance-type (end product-type) specification. Exceptions and options to the specification may be included in any specification prepared by the user as part of the procurement process for WIM equipment or services, and vendors may offer exceptions and options in responding to an invitation to bid.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.2

1.5 The following precautionary caveat applies only to the test method portion, Section 7, of this specification. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.