AI-Roads Company
Pavement Asset Management Using AI-Based Road Inspection Systems
Shifting Focus: From Late-Stage Interventions to Early Defect Correction
The Problem with Current Pavement Maintenance Methods
Global transportation agencies currently invest significant amounts annually in pavement maintenance and rehabilitation to meet various expectations. However, prevailing strategies pose substantial challenges affecting the efficiency and effectiveness of these investments. The industry standard relies on infrequent inspections, with many road authorities reviewing their entire network only every 2-3 years or more. This rarity often culminates in a reactive maintenance strategy, addressing road defects late in their development, leading to escalating costs and marginal improvements in pavement conditions.
Traditional inspection strategies using manual methods or expensive LiDAR scanning technology unnecessarily consume a significant portion of public funds while failing to extend the service life of road infrastructure. This results in a continuous cycle of escalating rehabilitation costs as we focus more on treating symptoms rather than preventing problems. Therefore, the current approach needs reevaluation to enhance the longevity and safety of our road infrastructure while ensuring more efficient use of funds.
Unveiling the Critical Concepts of Pavement Deterioration and Pavement Cracking Theories
The pavement deterioration theory assumes that all pavements, over time, suffer from degradation. This deterioration manifests in various forms, from simple surface cracks to large potholes, and can be exacerbated by external factors such as weather conditions, heavy loads, and inadequate drainage systems.
Similarly, the pavement cracking theory is a fundamental principle in road maintenance, recognizing that cracks in pavements are not only common but inevitable. These cracks arise due to a variety of factors, including stress from vehicles, weather conditions, subgrade issues, and the simple passage of time.
These two theories are interconnected. Untreated cracks, according to the pavement cracking theory, not only worsen over time but also accelerate the overall rate of pavement deterioration, reinforcing the pavement deterioration theory. This acceleration results from water ingress through the cracks, leading to significant pavement damage such as cracking, depressions, potholes, and ruts.
