Automatic pavement texture measurement using a new 3D image-based profiling system

Abstract

Pavement surface texture affects safety and comfort of road users. Pavement skid resistance, surface drainage, noise generation and vehicle depreciation are all affected by the pavement surface texture. 3D evaluation is one of the most accurate methods of measuring pavement texture characteristics. In this paper, a 3D automatic device based on a cumulative imaging technique is presented for pavement texture measurement. The presented device has an innovative surface friction reduction system. This system evaluates the effect of different level of humidity on pavement surface texture characteristics. 3D Point cloud models of pavement texture are generated using Structure from Motion (SfM) technique. Then, evaluation indices are extracted based on morphological characteristics of texture. Finally, a new method is presented to evaluate the pavement texture in case of rainfall. A new method for 3D calculation of MDE and RMSR has been proposed. Examination of the relationship between these indices and MTD shows that evaluation of pavement texture and its effect on other related characteristics needs to consider different indices. Experimental tests showed a high correlation between the results of presented system and sand patch test.