SPARC Hub has recently performed successful trials of its Intelligent Compaction Analyser (ICA) platform at several project sites.
Intelligent compaction is a technique that uses sensors and feedback systems to measure and control the compaction process of pavement materials, such as asphalt and granular materials.
The benefits of intelligent compaction include improved uniformity and quality of pavement, reduced compaction costs and time, enhanced documentation and process control, and lower environmental impact.
The trials’ aims were to validate the technical and economic benefits of its ICA platform, develop data standards and specifications for intelligent compaction, and identify other parameters that can make rollers more intelligent.
Features of SPARC Hub’s ICA platform
The ICA platform has many innovative features, including:
- phase angle measurement of response vibration through cross-correlation of dual-axis acceleration signals
- a well-defined signal processing system
- the use of signal distortion measurement
- an autonomous vehicle grade GNSS system
- raw vibration signal visualisation and data saving independent software analytic tools and cloud-based data storage and analysis.
The ICA platform can capture 21 dynamic parameters in real-time during compaction that have not been recorded on one platform in the past.
Additionally, the platform is modular, making it retrofittable to an existing conventional roller.
About EIC Activities’ involvement with SPARC Hub research
CIMIC Group’s engineering and technical services business EIC Activities is the major industry partner to the Smart Pavements Australia Research Collaboration (SPARC) Hub, in conjunction with Monash University, the Australian Road Research Board (ARRB) and Austroads, which represents the Australian and New Zealand transport agencies.
We are working to make pavements safer and more economical with a lower environmental footprint. Our sponsorship of nine innovations includes a focus on smart sensing, construction and maintenance monitoring.
Read more about SPARC Hub research projects here.