Current Research
EFFective Use of Traffic Speed Deflectometer for Network-based and Project-based Applications
NRRA TSD
Abstract:
The desire to characterize the network-level structural conditions in recent years has led to research efforts to investigate, validate, and demonstrate the effectiveness of Traffic Speed Deflectometer Devices (TSDDs). Several algorithms exist to provide network-level and project-level information. However, none of them have considered the uncertainty of the field data in terms of the limitations of the sensors. This study aims to identify and propose robust indices for network and project-level applications and best-suited procedures for implementing them based on the type of pavement and the characteristics of the hardware of the device. The goals of this project are to provide guidelines and define processes to maximize the information and minimize the cost of network- and project-level uses of TSDDs.
The outcomes of this study will be of particular value to state highway agencies, helping them optimize their benefit-cost ratio by avoiding data collection using TSDDs on pavement sections where analysis is unreliable due to TSDD limitations. Furthermore, the study will recommend the most effective algorithms to analyze the data collected, ensuring a balance between measurement uncertainties and the analytical rigor required for accurate evaluation.
In the end, the implementation of TSDDs for continuous structural evaluation of the transportation infrastructure will enable more informed decision-making regarding the timely maintenance and rehabilitation (M&R) of the road network. These data-drive decisions will enhance the long-term durability of highways while reducing the frequency and associated costs of reconstruction
Principal Investigators:
Soheil Nazarian
Cesar Tirado
Rajib Mallick
Award Duration:
2024 - 2026
Budget:
$150,000
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