2D/3D Mapping

FAA NDT Van with GPR, Imaging System, and Inertial Profiler Mounted (Click to Zoom)

The FAA Nondestructive Pavement Testing (NDT) Van is a 2010 Ford E-350 box truck outfitted with various pavement data acquisition systems, including an inertial profiler, ground penetrating radar (GPR), and a 2D and 3D imaging system. These data acquisition systems are used simultaneously to analyze airport runway pavement conditions and for estimation of remaining pavement life. Mounted on the rear of the van are the laser imaging cameras of the 2D and 3D imaging system. These record 2D and 3D images of the pavement surface for analysis of its condition. Initially installed in 2010, the system was upgraded with new lasers in 2018. This system can be deployed to any site to which the van can be driven and has been used on numerous research projects at the FAA NAPTF and at active airports around the United States.

2D and 3D Imaging Lasers Mounted on the Rear of the FAA NDT Van (Click to Zoom)

During a survey, the 2D and 3D imaging system simultaneously collects high resolution 2D and 3D imaging data of the pavement. The van is driven along parallel testing lines collecting “strips” of pavement data until the whole test area has been recorded. These strips are then stitched together to form a complete image of the entire test area. When used in conjunction with the accompanying analysis software, this data can be used to detect and analyze pavement distresses and perform PCI analysis. Additionally, pavement grooving can be evaluated, examining depth and width consistency of the grooves. The program uses a neural network to constantly update and improve its detection capabilities, becoming more robust with use. Examples of 2D and 3D data collected by the FAA NDT Van imaging system are shown below.

2D Scan Data of a Test Section of the NAPTF (Click to Zoom)

3D Scan Data Showing Pavement Distress (Click to Zoom)

3D Scan Data Showing Distress Formation Over Time (Click to Zoom)

For more information on the NDT Van, follow the link to the corresponding page.

NDT Van

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