An emerging technology, 3D Models in Construction accompanied with Automated Machine Guidance (AMG), will soon be the key factor in providing safer, more efficient construction engineering inspection services for highway construction projects. And DRMP is one of the few firms that is experienced in projects involving its use.
Fast becoming a requirement in Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) projects, AMG is an application that uses 3D modeling data, advanced survey equipment, and global positioning technology in highway construction projects that provides real-time automated guidance to construction equipment. The aim of AMG equipment is to reduce the number of operators needed and to complete the project in less time and at cost savings. As part of our advanced survey equipment, DRMP has purchased a Robotic Total Station (RTS) to verify the final product, generated by AMG, accurately conforms to the 3D Model. Ultimately, the technology will provide an improvement in the quality of the finished project compared to conventional methods.
Knowing AMG was coming down the pike, DRMP gained real-project training, and invested in AMG training, and RTS equipment to maximize its effectiveness for the success of the project.
“There is no learning curve for our team,” said Brian Crowl, PE, DRMP CEI Senior Project Engineer.
Crowl and other DRMP CEI staff had an opportunity to partner with Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise on a pilot project, Polk Parkway Milling and Resurfacing project, in 2021. AMG was used on the roadway milling and resurfacing project on Polk Parkway in Polk County, Fla. The 3D CAD-based model is inputted into the AMG equipment. The 3D model is driving it to tell where and at what depth to mill and place asphalt. The RTS verified that the survey shots on the final-milled and paved surface are in accordance with the 3D model. It was the first time the Turnpike used AMG and it is one of the first projects in the state to use the technology. The CEI team is currently working on a 3D model design project for FDOT District 5. This project, located in Zellwood on US 441, requires the use of AMG equipment on all milling and overbuild sections of the roadway. The CEI Team is the third team in District 5 to administer a 3D design project and utilize the RTS equipment for verification.
Not only does DRMP have the training, but it is also one of the few firms that invested in the training and equipment, said DRMP Senior Project Engineer Ryan Pellarin, PE, who has worked alongside Crowl in utilizing the new technology.
“Our firm provides that support for CEI,” Pellarin said. “DRMP made the upfront investment in the technology and software and has the support from DRMP’s design personnel to analyze and process the 3D Model data.”
DRMP has a tremendous advantage – the backing of DRMP engineers who have long been skilled in producing 3D plans and the accessibility to DRMP’s survey group for training and troubleshooting assistance.
“That support is there in DRMP’s Production Technology Manager and other staff experienced in producing 3D plans,” Crowl added. DRMP established the role of Production Technology in October 2021, to have a dedicated design professional well-versed in the industry’s technology to analyze its benefits for the firm.
Now, the technology will be shared.
“We are collaborating and sharing our experience and information throughout our CEI team because we know there are more projects to come,” Crowl said.
