Design of a Low-Profile Multi-Source Self-Powered Raised Pavement Marker for Cold Regions

Abstract

A multi-source self-powered raised pavement marker is proposed for cold-region roads where snowplow impact, freeze-thaw cycles, deicing salts, water accumulation, and surface contamination can degrade structural and optical performance. The concept is developed from a low-profile snowplowable retroreflective marker and integrates solar energy, localized electromagnetic recharging, and traffic-induced vibration energy harvesting. Low-profile protection, combined bonding, drainage and contamination control, material durability, and energy balance are evaluated. A parameterized seven-day analysis is used to compare energy contributions under sunny, overcast, and snow-covered conditions. Under the assumed parameters, the multi-source configuration reduces the sensitivity of the energy balance to solar variability. Localized electromagnetic recharging provides the principal supplemental input during low-solar conditions, while vibration harvesting supplies a continuous low-power contribution. Energy, mechanical, and environmental validation tasks are proposed to support subsequent prototype development and field testing.