Innovative Techniques with a Multipurpose Survey Vehicle for Automated Analysis of Cross-Slope Data

Manual surveying methods have long been used in the field of highway engineering to determine the cross slope and the longitudinal grade of an existing roadway. However, these methods are slow, tedious, and labor intensive. Moreover, manual survey methods almost always require partial or full lane closure, which results in traffic delays, increases in costs, and inconvenience to the traveling public. In 2003, the Florida Department of Transportation acquired a state-of-the-art multipurpose survey vehicle (MPSV) that combines the advantage of an inertial profiler with the additional ability of simultaneously collecting images, cross slope, longitudinal grade, curvature, rutting, and roughness at highway speed. To complement the MPSV system, an automated analysis tool has been developed to process pavement geometry data for identifying areas with deficiencies in cross slope and longitudinal grade in a fast, efficient manner. In addition, this analytical tool computes a drainage path along the pavement surface. The program also displays the analysis results in two- and three-dimensional graphical formats, allowing for an easier interpretation of the data. The MPSV technology coupled with the developed cross-slope analysis tool provides an effective, practical, and cost-effective method to identify quickly potential problem-prone areas along a highway. This paper presents an innovative technique for the analysis of data on cross slope and longitudinal profile that helps identify areas with deficiencies in cross slope and surface drainage. Highway agencies can successfully implement similar systems and analysis methodology to complement and enhance their existing safety and pavement management programs.