FRT 240, KYTC, 3D Road Embankment Simulation

Abstract FRT 240, KYTC, 3D Road Embankment Simulation The mission of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (“KYTC”) is to provide a safe, efficient, environmentally sound and fiscally responsible transportation system that delivers economic opportunity and enhances the quality of life in Kentucky. As such, road safety is at the core of the KYTC’s mission. KYTC is interested in partnering with the Kentucky Transportation Center at the University of Kentucky (“KTC”) and RDV Systems, Inc. of Manchester, NH (“RDV”) to research and develop computer techniques that leverage LIDAR data for the automated analyses of the roadway embankment geometrics. RDV currently offers a software product known as Road Safety Audit 3D (“RSA-3D”) which provides similar capabilities as that being requested by KYTC. The technology uses 3-D virtual models, including LIDAR data, to simulate and analyze various road geometrics and safety characteristics such as pavement slope, cross slope, long slope as well as stopping, passing, and intersection sight distances on existing and proposed roadways. The goal of the project is to leverage and expand RDV’s current product capabilities to automate the discovery of roadway segments where the side slope and embankment conditions warrant the need for guardrail. RDV is the sole provider of the RSA-3D software solution. Tracking the locations of guardrail in Kentucky and identifying roadway segments suitable for new installation of guardrail has historically been a challenge in Kentucky. As such, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has requested that the consultant RDV Systems, Inc The objective of this research project is to enhance KYTC’s guardrail program by expanding RDV’s current product capabilities to automate the identification of roadway segments where the side slope and embankment conditions warrant the need for guardrail. This objective will be accomplished by KTC subcontracting with RDV and providing support, input, and quality control as needed throughout the software development process. PROJECTS TASKS 1. Secure a subcontract with RDV to modify their Road Safety Audit 3D software to evaluate roadside conditions 2. Work with RDV to outline Kentucky’s guardrail procedures 3. Assist with data transfer to RDV for the guardrail needs identification pilot routes 4. Provide input to RDV as needed during the software development and refinement 5. Quality control RDV’s assessed routes for accuracy in guardrail needs identification: QC for pilot area and larger final study area 6. Facilitate meetings between KYTC and RDV to discuss project results.