Abstract
AbstractSelecting the optimal pavement type, between rigid and flexible options, presents a significant challenge due to resource constraints and the absence of a comprehensive decision support system that integrates both design processes and life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA). This study introduces PaveDecision, a novel platform developed to automate the pavement design process while incorporating an in-depth LCCA. The research method involved analysis of empirical data, design standards, and real-world case studies. Four case studies in Vietnam showed that PaveDecision produced pavement designs closely aligned with those developed by professional engineers while simultaneously assessing long-term economic impacts of different pavement types. This research enhances the body of knowledge by automating complex pavement design calculations through advanced graph digitization techniques, integrating automated design with LCCA in a single platform, and providing comprehensive sensitivity analysis capabilities for multiple design and cost variables. The study enhances infrastructure decision-making through an efficient, objective, and practical method to address the complexities of pavement design and life-cycle costs.
Practical ApplicationsPaveDecision offers engineers, planners, and decision makers a user-friendly web platform to automate and streamline pavement design and cost analysis. Through analysis of four major expressway projects in Vietnam, this study demonstrates how the platform helps users make more informed decisions about pavement type selection. The system automatically calculates optimal pavement layer thicknesses and performs comprehensive life-cycle cost analysis, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual calculations and reducing potential human errors. Users can quickly evaluate different pavement options and understand their long-term financial implications by entering basic project parameters such as traffic loads, soil conditions, and material costs. The platform’s sensitivity analysis feature allows practitioners to assess how changes in various factors like discount rates, repair schedules, and material costs affect overall project costs. This helps identify the most cost-effective solutions for specific project conditions. Although initially developed using Vietnamese standards, the open-source nature of PaveDecision enables adaptation to different international standards, making it a valuable tool for infrastructure development worldwide. The platform also serves as an educational resource for students and professionals learning about pavement design and life-cycle cost analysis.
