Remote sensing is the art of collecting data via spaceborne tools. These tools do not have physical contact with the object to be studied. In highway engineering, remote sensing is widely used. Engineers use the spatial information from these sensors to achieve their goals. The extracted data can greatly impact the high and roads constructions. Therefore, remote sensing is a critical component of highway construction and engineering.
Here are some of the applications of remote sensing techniques in highway engineering;
1. Site location and analysis
Before any highway begins, the site has to be located and analyzed to avoid a loss that may occur in the future. Highway engineering employs remote sensing to locate and analyze the site where the highway will be constructed. Remote sensors provide wide-area images, and engineers can easily analyze the topography site. Also, the engineers use the collected data to predict future changes associated with the site.
2. Highway management
The remote sensing technique is employed in infrastructure management. Since they are air-borne tools, they are used to remotely monitor and assess the site. The remote sensor gives a wide of the site. Due to this, the construction decision is upgraded, and there’s a reduction in total cost.
3. Mapping Highway infrastructure
The remote sensing technique is applied in mapping and visualizing highway infrastructure. To create models and maps showing highways, digital and spaceborne tools should be used. Remote sensors are air-borne tools, and therefore they can take the ground’s image from space. These images are then analyzed and are used in modeling maps that show the highway infrastructure.
4. Security of the highway and other infrastructures
Security is essential for all infrastructures. The remote sensing technique has played a vital role in easing securing highways and other related infrastructures. Remote sensors tools monitor the sites and share a live transmission showing the condition of the highway. Secondly, the data of the site is protected. This is because it is saved on the cloud and can only be accessed by engineers or other authorities.
5. Highway and town planning
During highway construction, there are critical factors that are considered. Various tools are used to analyze and solve the factors associated with highway construction. Remote sensing is one of the tools that is used. It tracks and takes the image of the town, which is used in the proper positioning of the highway.
6. Highway alignment
Highway alignments are a critical section in the construction of highways. It dictates the total cost incurred in the construction of the highway. Remote sensing helps to provide information hence making aligning of the highway easily.
7. Mapping terrain
In highway engineering, the earth’s terrain is vital as it affects the construction directly. Images from satellites and other remote sensors can be used to analyze the region’s terrain. Secondly, the collected data notes the black spots and perfect terrain for highway construction.
8. Landslide Analysis
Landslides are one of the natural factors that hinder highway engineering. Remote sensed data could be used to analyze areas at higher risk of lands.
