A Segment-linked Optimization Model for Deterministic Pavement Management Systems

Abstract

This paper presents a segment-linked optimization model to be used within deterministic pavement management systems. The model is aimed at determining the least-cost maintenance and rehabilitation strategy to be implemented in a road network, taking into account the applicable technical and budgetary constraints. The evolution of pavements with regard to cracking, rutting, surface disintegration, and longitudinal roughness is estimated with deterministic performance models. The overall quality of pavements is assessed through a modified version of the Present Serviceability Index (PSI). The method developed to solve the model is based on genetic algorithm principles. The application of the model is illustrated for a case study involving the road network of Coimbra, the third-largest Portuguese city. The results obtained for this case study indicate that the model is a valuable addition to the road engineer's toolbox.

Keywords:

• Pavement Management Systems
• Deterministic Pavement Performance Models
• Pavement Maintenance And Rehabilitation
• Optimization Models
• Genetic Algorithms