a distance and temperature sensing unit is used on paving vehicles . the unit has a first set of range sensors of a first diameter and a second set of range sensors of a second diameter . the unit calculates a weighted average distance to a road surface based on ranges measured by the multiple sensors . the unit also has a temperature sensor on a temperature bar . the bar is affixed to the unit by a flexible connection preventing break - off when the bar encounters obstacles , like the road surface , while the paving vehicle is moving .