Implementation of Visualization and Modeling Technologies for Transportation Construction

Abstract

State departments of transportation (DOTs) increasingly use visualization and modeling technologies for delivering transportation projects across the United States. Advanced and innovative technologies have the ability to improve various construction processes and tasks while making the construction process more efficient and productive. Visualization and modeling technologies, which include building information modeling for infrastructure, light detection and ranging, virtual reality, and augmented reality, are becoming more commonplace in transportation construction. Yet, the use of these technologies varies among state DOTs. The intent of this study is to investigate the use of visualization and modeling technologies for transportation construction. This study employed a triangulation research methodology including an extensive literature review, survey questionnaire of DOTs, and seven case studies. Results of the study show that 92% of state DOTs use visualization and modeling technologies for construction. Then, 81% of DOTs use visualization and modeling technologies for constructability reviews, 38% use them for documentation of as-builts and simulating bridge and structure construction, and 35% use them for quality management, inspections, and monitoring progress of work. The main barriers to using visualization and modeling technologies include legal concerns with using digital models as contract documents, incompatibilities in software and hardware between the DOTs and contracted parties, and the appropriate knowledge, skills, and abilities required to use visualization and modeling technologies for construction. The findings from this study provides valuable information for state DOTs to approach their implementation and use of visualization and modeling technologies for transportation construction delivery.

Content analysis of e-inspection implementation for highway infrastructure construction projects

“…The e-ticketing technology replaced this traditional ticking process by automatedly using GPS and software to track and record material delivery to the construction site (Dadi et al. , 2020; Harper et al. , 2019).…”

“…Cai et al, 2020) created an electronic inspection system to automate the construction inspection checklists and manage the digital inspection process of highway construction projects. The continued reliance on paper-based inspection impedes innovation, whereas the shortage of qualified staff slows down production rates and reduces the quality of the final product (Harper et al, 2019;Taylor and Maloney, 2013). As a result, several DOTs are searching for approaches that increase productivity and leverage their inspection resources.…”

“…While construction is a physically demanding industry, incorporating technology into inspection activities may help minimize inspection staff size. For instance, a study by Harper et al (2019) found that adopting effective practices to infuse the use of e-construction and advanced automation instead of paper-based procedures can reduce the need for construction staff, increase productivity by 8% on average, and result in cost savings up to 5%. Harper et al (2019) concluded that there is a direct correlation between the digitalization rate of the construction industry and productivity improvements.…”

“…For instance, a study by Harper et al (2019) found that adopting effective practices to infuse the use of e-construction and advanced automation instead of paper-based procedures can reduce the need for construction staff, increase productivity by 8% on average, and result in cost savings up to 5%. Harper et al (2019) concluded that there is a direct correlation between the digitalization rate of the construction industry and productivity improvements. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) defines the e-construction process as a paperless construction administration delivery process, including electronic submission of all construction documentation by all stakeholders, electronic document routing and approvals (e-signature), and digital management of all construction documentation in a secure environment (Shah et al, 2017).…”

Assessing Technology Implementation Success for Highway Construction and Asset Management

“…Previous research has investigated various technologies and their applications in highway construction and asset management [ 10 , 11 ]. However, the implementation and identification of critical implementation factors by state DOTs have been explored on a very limited basis.…”