Bureaus of Research and Programming Get New Data Collection Vehicle

The bureaus of Research and Programming are excited to take possession of their first Pathrunner in nearly 20 years. The vehicle will be used to collect data on IDOT pavements throughout the state. We spoke with Bureau Chief of Research John Senger about this new acquisition.

What is the Pathrunner and what will it be used for?

IDOT’s new Pathrunner is a data collection vehicle. The Ford Transit chassis is equipped with a variety of different sensors to measure pavement performance and collect mobile LiDAR for assessing other IDOT assets. This Pathrunner is equipped with Pathway Service’s 3D Pass, a state-of-the-art transverse pavement profiler used to collect rutting and cracking data. The vehicle also has an all-speed profile to collect pavement smoothness metrics. The system includes pavement surface texture measurement sensors to begin network-level collection of friction-related indices. The vehicle also collects forward and rear images of the road and right –of way to help the analyst when reviewing data.

IDOT currently contracts with Pathway Services to collect annual pavement inventory data that is submitted to the Federal Highway Administration every April. However, many sections are unable to be collected due to ongoing construction during the spring and summer. IDOT staff will use this device to collect the missing data at the end of the year to fulfill requirements to the FHWA.

There are many pavement sections throughout the state that IDOT monitors on an annual basis to support our pavement design and pavement lifecycle models. In the past, the department has hired out this data collection to consultants, but with the purchase of this new equipment, IDOT will reclaim the data collection efforts to maintain consistency with the FHWA collection process.

How does it work?

The Ford Transit chassis is outfitted with several different sensors. Each sensor measures a different roadway feature or distress. All the data are recorded onboard and are frequently uploaded to specialized workstations used to process the data and prepare them for consumption.

Bureau of Research and Bureau of Programming staff received several days of training on how to operate the data collection vehicle and the software to process the data. Programming staff will develop the list of routes that need to be collected, and Research staff will begin collection as weather permits.

What makes it valuable to IDOT?

IDOT ordered the most advanced set of sensors that are offered by the vendor. The department will be able to collect valid International Roughness Index data through almost any driving condition. We can collect our own LiDAR for other asset inventory. The equipment manufacturer just released a new texture signature technology, which can predict the pavement’s frictional characteristics. Pavement friction is strongly related to safety, so being able to assess and identify areas with low friction on a network level is a huge step forward.

When will it go into operation?

The vehicle was built and delivered in November and is already collecting data throughout the state.

Where will it be used?

This device will collect data all over the state and for various purposes. It will be available for special collection requests as well.