The use of geodetic measurements in the assessment of the technical condition of road pavement – case study

Abstract

Technical infrastructure is exposed to environmental impacts throughout its entire life cycle. For linear objects, such as roads, additional impacts resulting from their continuous use – vehicle traffic – are distinguished. Due to their communication function, these facilities are subject to ongoing condition monitoring. This procedure allows to identify any damage and indicate appropriate protective measures. Observations of the terrain as well as the road surface can be carried out using commonly used geodetic measurements. Cyclic monitoring applies especially to facilities in mining areas, where impacts in the form of continuous and discontinuous deformations significantly contribute to their damage. The research presents the results of selected geodetic measurements made on a deformed road surface affected by underground mining. The aim of the observations was to use both classic and modern measurement techniques to determine, among others, the shape of the surface or identify damage. The applied measurements included commonly used total station measurements and GNSS satellite positioning. Additionally, low-ceiling photogrammetry using an unmanned aerial vehicle and laser scanning were used to illustrate the shape of the road surface. Finally, a comparison was made of selected methods; their advantages and disadvantages allowed us to determine their usefulness in monitoring the condition of the pavement.

Keywords

• road pavements
• geodetic monitoring
• damage identification