Dan Middleton, Ph.D., PE

TTI Senior Research Engineer

Education

• Ph.D., Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University, 1994
• M.S., Civil Engineering, The University of Tennessee, 1979
• B.S., Civil Engineering, The University of Tennessee, 1970

Short Biography

Dr. Middleton has become a recognized leader in research involving both vehicle detection and the operational impacts of commercial vehicles since joining TTI in 1983. A significant portion of this research involved the use of microprocessor-based systems, including the testing of state-of-the-art sensors of various types for monitoring vehicular characteristics or for monitoring traffic on existing roadways. Dr. Middleton's research involving vehicle detection includes the following studies: "Deployment of D-CS Algorithm into Different Traffic Signal Controllers" (FHWA), "Evaluation of Vehicle Detection Systems," "Initial Evaluation of Selected Detectors to Replace Inductive Loops on Freeways," "Evaluation of the Existing Technologies for Vehicle Detection and Establishment of Communication Data Requirements," and "Evaluation of TxDOT Detector Placement for High-Speed Approaches to Signalized Intersections." He led another study funded through the Texas A&M ITS Research Center of Excellence evaluating the use of weigh-in-motion sensors and vehicle identification systems to assist in the enforcement of commercial vehicles. A few of Dr. Middleton's commercial vehicle projects are: "Develop Methodology to Utilize Connected Vehicle Technology for Safety Screening of Commercial Vehicles entering the U.S.," (Center for International Intelligent Transportation Research) "Truck Accommodation Design Guidance" (TxDOT), "S.R. 60 Truck Lane Feasibility Study" (sponsored by the Southern California Association of Governments), "Evaluate and Develop an Improved System for Collecting and Reporting Traffic Loads to Better Meet the Needs of Bridge and Pavement Engineers" (TxDOT), "Development of a Texas Strategic Plan for Commercial Vehicle Operations," (TxDOT), "Assess the Feasibility of a Standardized Electronic Diagnostic Device for Maintenance and Inspection of Commercial Motor Vehicles" (FHWA), and "Determination of Truck Accident Countermeasures on Urban Freeways" (FHWA). Dr. Middleton's educational background includes degrees from the University of Tennessee and Texas A&M University. Work experience prior to TTI includes four years as a Traffic Engineer in Greenville, South Carolina and three years in roadway design with the Tennessee Department of Transportation.