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Typical RoadEng Work Flow for Designing a Road
Updated June 22, 2022
This article applies to:
- RoadEng Civil
- RoadEng Forestry
- The Terrain module is used to import and verify survey data of existing conditions. Possible data sources include total station (XYZ files), LiDAR, or GIS maps (shape, dwg, dgn etc.).
- Using the Terrain module, break-lines and other linear features are identified and connected. A TIN (Triangular Irregular Network) surface representing original ground (OG) is created. The resulting linework and TIN surface is saved in a *.TERX file. NOTE: it may be useful to create several terrain files (e.g. one with the TIN model and one with planimetric linework).
- A new design is created in the Location module, based on an OG surface (.TERX file from step above).
- The road cross-section is created or adjusted using the Template Editor.
- A horizontal alignment is created or adjusted using the mouse or explicitly in the Horizontal Alignment Panel.
- A vertical alignment is created or adjusted using the mouse or explicitly in the Vertical Alignment Panel. Vertical optimization (Softree Optimal) can also be used in this step.
- Steps 4-6 are repeated until the designer is satisfied with the result. In addition to Plan, Profile and Cross Section views, various reporting tools provide the designer with feedback. This includes volumes, mass haul diagram, and cost reporting.
- Construction documentation is prepared using the Multi-Plot window. This documentation is printed directly or exported to CAD (*.dwg).
- LandXML or ASCII files can be saved for construction staking.