Abstract Manager

Effective pavement asset management depends on accurate, efficient, and reliable data collection to evaluate road network performance and guide maintenance and rehabilitation strategies. Traditional methods, such as Falling Weight Deflectometers (FWD), are often time-consuming, intrusive, and limited in their ability to assess network-wide conditions efficiently. In contrast, the iPAVe system utilizes advanced Traffic Speed Deflectometer (TSD) technology, which relies on Doppler lasers to measure deflection speeds at highway travel rates. This innovative approach enables the collection of continuous pavement deflection data, providing detailed insights into structural performance without disrupting traffic flow.

This presentation explores how the iPAVe system is transforming road asset management practices, with a focus on its introduction to Canada. Recent demonstration projects in Canada, conducted in collaboration with provinces and cities, showcased its ability to collect not only continuous TSD deflection measurements but also critical pavement surface data and imagery. These demonstrations highlighted how integrating such diverse datasets enhances asset management systems, enabling proactive maintenance planning, extending pavement life cycles, and optimizing budget allocation. Comparative analyses between TSD and traditional FWD results further validated the system’s reliability and efficiency at highway speeds, supporting its potential for broader adoption in Canada.

The demonstrations were carefully planned and carried out in partnership with provincial and municipal agencies. Test sections were chosen to reflect a variety of pavement types, traffic loads, and environmental conditions across Canada. Collaborative planning sessions ensured alignment with the specific goals of each jurisdiction, while detailed coordination helped minimize disruptions during data collection. Despite challenges like changing weather and traffic conditions, the iPAVe system effectively captured a wide range of pavement condition data. These efforts not only confirmed the technology’s adaptability but also demonstrated its effectiveness in addressing the unique challenges of Canadian road networks.

In conclusion, the TSD technology offers a promising advancement for Canadian provinces and transportation agencies seeking to enhance pavement management practices. The demonstration projects have validated the potential of TSD technology and comprehensive pavement data collection to improve decision-making, optimize maintenance strategies, and address the challenges of managing road networks. However, additional rounds of data collection are currently being planned to further explore the system’s capabilities and refine its application. These ongoing efforts will help ensure the technology is effectively integrated into asset management practices, supporting sustainable infrastructure and addressing the unique needs of Canada’s diverse road networks.