Impacts of Autonomous Vehicles on Road Geometric and Pavement Design: A Comprehensive Analysis
摘要
This research modifies Austroads’ design recommendations to take AV technology into consideration in order to examine the possible effects of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on pavement design and road geometry. The research highlights that AVs, with their advanced sensing and processing capabilities, require significantly shorter stopping sight distances (SSDs) compared to human-driven vehicles (HVs). This reduction in SSDs allows for more compact road designs, potentially increasing road capacity and reducing construction costs. Additionally, the study reveals that AVs necessitate shorter lengths for vertical crest and sag curves, further contributing to streamlined and cost-effective road infrastructure. In terms of pavement design, the precise lateral positioning of AVs leads to a more uniform distribution of wheel paths, thereby reducing localized stress and extending pavement lifespan. Pavements intended for AVs may support around 4.93 times as much single axle dual tire (SADT) loads than those planned for HVs, according to the improved pavement design approach. This suggests that pavement thickness may have been lowered on roads designed for autonomous vehicles, resulting in considerable cost savings during construction and upkeep. The results together imply that autonomous vehicles (AVs) can maximize the utilization of current road infrastructure, improving environmental sustainability, security, and efficiency. As AV technology continues to evolve, future research should address the implications of mixed fleets of AVs and HVs and update design parameters accordingly. This study underscores the transformative potential of AVs in reshaping road and pavement design, paving the way for a more advanced and efficient transportation system.