Transforming Road Safety and Transportation Infrastructure

In this broad-reaching session, experts will share their insights and experiences in data collection and infrastructure inspection, focusing on critical infrastructure, including Department of Transportation (DOT) roadways. Participants will benefit from a blend of lessons learned, innovative technologies, and practical applications across multiple presentations.

Using Thermal Infrared Imagery to Detect Bridge Delamination

Mousa Diabat, NV5, will share a novel approach to detecting and quantifying pavement delamination on bridge decks using airborne infrared thermography, a non-destructive technique. The discussion will center on projects conducted on over 200 bridges in different states, and will share metrics of data collection efficiency, processing, and reporting. The presentation will discuss remote sensing infrared thermography, a non-destructive technique for analyzing the delamination in concrete of bridge decks, review solutions developed for DOTs between 2021 and 2023, and evaluate the effectiveness and success of the application of remote sensing thermography compared to ground truthing data.

Transforming Infrastructure Inspection with Drones and AI

Russ Ellis, gNext, will present a discussion on the integration of drone technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in infrastructure inspections. By generating high-resolution digital twins of assets through photogrammetry and cloud computing, this approach enhances defect detection and promotes proactive maintenance strategies. The method, demonstrated via a customer use case, leverages the vast computational power and scalability of cloud technology to analyze and interpret inspection data, facilitating efficient and accurate assessment of infrastructure health. By applying change-over-time visualization techniques, this method serves as a potent addition to traditional asset health monitoring strategies, getting closer to being able to provide proactive, rather than reactive, maintenance. 

Evaluating LiDAR Technology for Enhanced Urban Safety

Vijay Sabawat, Parsons, will cover the transformative potential of lidar for detecting vulnerable road users and managing traffic signal assets. The presentation will delve into two critical applications of lidar: the detection of vulnerable road users (VRUs) such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, and the efficient inventory management of traffic signal assets. By leveraging real-time data from lidar sensors, testing has observed significant improvements in detection accuracy compared to traditional methods. This advancement is crucial for reducing accidents involving VRUs and enhancing overall road safety. 

Latest Advances in Data Acquisition of Road Infrastructure, Cycle Routes and Pedestrian Areas

Dr. Harald Teufelsbauer, RIEGL, will discuss the tools and techniques being put towards increasing safety for cycle and pedestrian areas. 

Lessons Learned in DOT Data Collection

Douglas Spotted Eagle, The LiDAR PROs, LLC will share hard-earned lessons and best practices for safely and effectively collecting data within DOT boundaries. This segment will cover the regulatory landscape, permissions and approvals, risk mitigation strategies, and the essential equipment needed for successful data collection operations. Attendees will leave with invaluable insights to navigate the complexities of working in high-stakes environments.