Implementation of computer aided system for management of pavement maintenance decision

The acceptable serviceability and performance of asphalt concrete pavement during the design life is highly dependent on long term monitoring of the pavement surface condition, and implementing the right decision to start the maintenance, and the right maintenance alternative at the right time. This paper describes the implementation of computer aided system to assess in the management of asphalt pavement maintenance decision using Vanguard Software. The Visual inspection and the walk through techniques for evaluating the Asphalt Concrete pavement surface condition have been utilized. Common types of Asphalt pavement distresses including various cracking types, bleeding of Asphalt, patching, pot holes, and deformation, with their various severity and intensity level have been included in the data base of the system. The pavement condition is recommended to be visually evaluated, and distress data will be fed to the software system. The types of different distresses intensity and severity will be subjected to analysis by the system, and the present condition rating index (PCRI) of the pavement is determined. The decision tree of the system suggests the required maintenance action based on the budget available, classification of the roadway, and the expected change in the design life of the pavement when such maintenance decision is implemented.