A CAE tool for pavement design and management

Abstract

This article describes a CAE package, supplemented by a powerful database handler for storing geotechnical data of any given geo-map, for the design, analysis and management of both rigid and flexible pavements. Pavement design and analysis are based on the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) guide [1, 2]. The cost and performance of different maintenance strategies on flexible pavements can be undertaken and evaluated. The database is based on a hierarchical data structure, which provides speed and flexibility of information access, as well as expansibility. The menu-driven package guides the user through the different steps involved in the design, analysis graphs, and maintenance strategies for pavement rehabilitation. Throughout the design stage, the user has the option of using the information stored in the database or relying on their own data. The database stores geotechnical information, such as the altitude, regional factor, subgrade CBR etc. The package is presented in a user-friendly interface, with HELP and ERROR LOG facilities. The design and analysis of pavements, complemented by a geotechnical database, makes this package a powerful CAE tool for civil engineering pavement designers.