News Release Archive
TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--AUTOMATIC ROAD ANALYSER INTRODUCED
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Transportation and Public Works Minister Don Downe today
introduced Nova Scotia's newest high-tech addition in road
analysis technology. The Automatic Road Analyser (ARAN) will be
on display today at an open house for the news media, public and
Transportation and Public Works staff beginning at 1 p.m. at
Purdy's Wharf, Halifax.
"The ARAN is going to make our road maintenance program better,"
said Mr. Downe. "This vehicle gives us a comprehensive analysis
of everything from pavement rutting to signage and paint
markings. It will be a valuable tool in keeping our roads and
highways in better shape."
The ARAN is a state-of-the-art pavement management system. It
uses some of the latest technical advances to measure and analyse
pavement conditions. Data is collected at highway speeds to
evaluate rutting, roughness, curves, pavement condition, signage
and road width.
The vehicle itself is a van equipped with computers for
collecting data. Pavement rut measurements are recorded by ultra
sonic sensors mounted from a bar across the front of the vehicle.
Riding comfort is gauged by monitoring its axle movements. Video
cameras on the front and rear of the vehicle provide a visual
record of the road network. Together, these components provide a
more complete database than previously available in Nova Scotia.
"With the kind of information the ARAN can offer, we'll be able
to fix a road before it becomes a major problem," said Mr. Downe.
"The objective is to have a handle on road conditions in every
corner of the province."
The Automatic Road Analyser has been used by more than 75
agencies in 18 countries and has received international
recognition for its effectiveness.
The ARAN will evaluate Nova Scotia's 100 series highway system
this summer. Evaluation of secondary routes will begin next year.
-30-
Contact: Romeo Poirier
Technical support group
902-860-2999
Laura Lee Langley
Public Affairs and Communications
902-424-8687
trp May 27, 1997 - 10:20 a.m.
