Hughes has developed a remote sensing technology system called Remote Emissions Sensor (RES). Although much information has been gathered by remote sensing on hydrocarbon and CO emissions from moving vehicles, little remote sensing emissions data has been available for NO due technical difficulties. In 1994, Hughes integrated an NO channel into the RES sensor. The improved RES was used to identify potential high NO emitters among the Hughes employee vehicle fleet. Vehicles with the highest NO readings were then selected to participate in confirmation testing, which involved a field inspection of emission-related components and multiple passes under controlled conditions through the remote sensor stations. Fifty-seven vehicles were selected for emissions tests and repairs.
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This research and development program demonstrated the technical feasibility of remotely sensing NOx emissions in a vehicle's exhaust. As such, a subsequent enforcement program could be implemented througout the South Coast Air District, resulting in a regional air quality benefit.
Potential significant emissions reductions can be realized from this program. The development of remote sensing technology facilitates the identification of vehicles that are not in compliance with state emissions standards.
The final report includes a technical specification for the remote sensing instrument, test procedures and protocols implemented during laboratory and field testing, field test results, and an overall assessment of the accuracy of the instument in identifying and quantifying organic and inorganic exhaust gas compounds.