TO deal with overloading as a significant trigger for the early deterioration of highways and public roads, the Department of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology and Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) shared plans to bridge its enchancment through a weigh-in-motion (WIM) calibration system.
With research revealing that 36 % of public roads in the Philippines are impaired in high quality as a consequence of truck overloading, WIM arises as an answer – but presently wants standardized calibration system.
“A fully operational WIM calibration system will help ensure the accurate monitoring of vehicle loads, protecting our roads and public infrastructure from premature deterioration. Beyond improving enforcement, it will support evidence-based policymaking, strengthen governance, promote economic efficiency, and reinforce public trust in government services. This initiative demonstrates how science and technology can provide practical solutions to pressing national challenges,” stated DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.
DOST-ITDI showcased their mission on creating a WIM calibration system utilizing synthetic intelligence (AI) and a computing-based mannequin in accordance with worldwide finest practices.
“[Through WIM], we can give our citizens confidence, that they know that anything that is weighed is [of] the correct measurement. ‘Our highways, our bridges, we are confident that they will not be damaged,” Ahdrian Camilo Gernale of the DOST-ITDI’s National Metrology Laboratory (NML) defined.
WIM system is an put in tools on public roads that estimates the weight of the automobile axle and gross mass of automobiles whereas shifting over road-mounted sensors or weighing parts.
The Philippines had already applied WIM, comparable to transportable and dynamic axle weighers, alongside the enactment of the Republic Act 8794, or the Anti-Overloading Act in 2000, which has repeatedly elevated in demand since 2022.
However, Gernale talked about the necessity for “a nationally recognized calibration pathway for WIM systems,” particularly since customers and suppliers apply totally different verification approaches, and there aren’t any uniformly established requirements each in nationwide and Asean context.
“Most of the practices, right now, depend on various standards for the calibration of WIM systems. [It is not fully needed] to be followed, but we need to set some constraints in following documentary standards,” he added.
Hence, DOST-ITDI is presently engaged on the prototype of reference requirements for WIM programs, sensor and knowledge mechanism and software program, calibration process, and quantified uncertainty and traceable reporting framework.
This standardized WIM calibration system is predicted to considerably improve operational effectivity and measurement functionality by growing calibration throughput from six pad samples per day to 16 pad samples per day, representing a 167 % enchancment in turnaround capability.
The WIM system can even allow increased calibration accuracy courses for each laboratory-based and on-site calibration companies.
Furthermore, the institution of this functionality at NML eliminates the necessity to ship calibration tools overseas for periodic recalibration, ensuing in decreased downtime, decrease calibration prices, quicker service supply and strengthened nationwide metrology infrastructure through the supply of native calibration companies.
DOST-ITDI revealed that they’re in communication with the Department of Public Works and Highways or DPWH, the Philippine Ports Authority or PPA, the North Luzon Expressway or NLEX and numerous stakeholders throughout the nation, relating to the present research.
The proposed WIM calibration system has been in growth since 2022, and was accredited for funding this yr, beginning final April 2026, with a finances amounting to P35 million for its first yr of conduct and P8 to P10 million for the succeeding yr.
Moreover, in line with its ongoing growth, DOST-ITDI performed a dialogue with numerous stakeholders, non-public calibration laboratories and suppliers, highlighting the scope and technical necessities for the WIM calibration functionality for the Philippines.
ITDI is likely one of the hooked up businesses of DOST geared toward offering science-based, revolutionary, and inclusive options throughout 4 strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth safety, and sustainability.
These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All.
Visit www.itdi.dost.gov.ph for extra info.