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 How the FHWA is Deploying Emerging Technologies Innovation - December 2011 / January 2012 / Volume 9 Number 6 Articles of completed Technology Partnerships Projects
Article Archive |
Bridge Technologies(BridgeComposites, LLC) State DOT's have expressed a need for corrosion-resistant, light-weight bridge decking for rapid installation on moveable bridges. Over the past several years, the New York State DOT developed a bridge deck that would be well-suited for such an application. It is made primarily of fiber reinforced polymer composite materials that use confined cementitious grout to produce a structurally efficient section. Lab tests have shown that the hybrid deck can meet AASHTO loading requirements, be detailed for easy and rapid installation, and endure the repeated loadings required for a long service life. As a first step, this project will demonstrate that the section can be produced economically through alternative methods of composite production such as pultrusion, vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), or off-shore subcomponent manufacture. Detailed manufacturing specifications and shop drawings will be produced and made available to others to encourage broad acceptance in the engineering community. Award amount of $460,305 includes a field installation on an existing fixed-span bridge. It is anticipated that successful completion of this project will lead to future installation on a moveable span bridge.
(Berger/Abam Engineers) Prefabricated bridges bents, also known as piers, have not been used in seismic regions because accepted methods of making connections that are both structurally robust and quick to assemble were not known and were not addressed in design specifications. This project will demonstrate a totally precast concrete bridge bent system that can be used in seismic regions. This new technology, to be used on a bridge in Washington State, allows the main elements of bridge bents to be prefabricated off site. Then the segments are moved into place and assembled to form the bents, greatly reducing construction time and traffic delays. Award amount of $400,397.
(Coreslab Structures, Omaha) Bridge engineers are seeking new ways to build better bridges, reduce travel times, and improve repair techniques; thereby reducing maintenance. Precast panels manufactured from UHPC can provide significant durability improvements to bridge decks due to the high strength, extremely low permeability, and improved connection details inherent in the system. The use of this innovation will result in reduced construction time for new and rehabilitated bridges, the ability to upgrade the load carrying capacity of existing bridges, and improved durability of bridge decks. Award amount $382,971. Pavement-Related Technologies
Aggregate Image Measurement System 2 (AIMS 2) (Pine Instrument Company). The composition of aggregates used in pavement surfaces affects durability and skid resistance. The Aggregate Imaging System combines hardware that captures real-time digital images of paving material samples, and software that analyzes shape, texture and ratio characteristics of aggregates such as Hot Mix asphalt and hydraulic cement concrete, to improve the speed and accuracy of testing. Award amount: $200,000.
Asphalt Binder Cracking Device (EZ Asphalt Technology, LLC). The way asphalt responds to low temperatures is critical to its performance. The Asphalt Binder Cracking Device provides a simple and reliable method to test the cracking potential at different temperatures of the binders used in asphalt. The device will assist the industry in predicting and preventing asphalt failure due to cracking at low temperatures, extending the life of pavements and reducing the need for patching or repaving. Award amount: $225,061.
Intelligent Asphalt Compaction Analyzer (Haskell Lemon Construction Company). Improper compaction during construction is a leading cause of asphalt pavement degradation. The prototype Intelligent Asphalt Compaction analyzer is a device mounted to compaction equipment to provide real-time data so compaction inconsistencies can be remedied while asphalt is still pliable. Replacing the time-consuming manual process currently used will reduce construction time and make pavements last longer. Award amount: $200,000.
Safety Product Performance Evaluations
Horizontal Curves make up a small percentage of total road miles, yet account for one-quarter of all highway fatalities. The majority of crashes on curves involve lane departures. The Sequential Dynamic Curve Warning System consists of a series of solar-powered, LED-enhanced BlinkerSigns (a Curve Warning BlinkerSign and an array of Chevron BlinkerSigns) that are installed throughout a curve.
Safety-Related Technologies
All-Weather Pavement Marking System (3M Company). Wet road conditions make it difficult for drivers to see conventional pavement markings, a situation that is especially hazardous in work zones where lane shifts are common. The All-weather Pavement Marking System incorporates specially designed wet reflective optical materials into pavement marking paint to make it easier for drivers to see markings on wet roads and respond appropriately. 3M will use the grant to adapt its product for cost-effective temporary use in work zones. Award amount: $499,277.
Automated Pavement Marker Placement System (Stay Alert Safety Services Inc). Applying raised pavement markers manually is time-consuming and dangerous for workers. The prototype device, which can be mounted on standard equipment, will automate the process of reflective marker installation on roads. Initial tests showed the system reduced labor hours, construction time and risk of worker injury. Award amount: $405,560.
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Technology Partnerships
