AutoRoadsVertical Alignment of Road

AutoRoads simplifies the vertical design procedure, making it efficient and user-friendly. This procedure usually follows after the horizontal alignment design process has been completed. The key steps involved in AutoRoads’ vertical design procedure are as follows:

Select Vertical Design:
Begin by selecting the Vertical Design option from the design menu. This action opens the vertical design window, which provides various tools and options for creating and modifying the vertical alignment.

Import OGL Line:
Click on the “Add Addition Line” button to import the Original Ground Level (OGL) line. This line serves as a reference for the existing terrain, helping to guide the vertical alignment design.

Create Vertical IP Guide:
Use the Create Vertical IP Guide feature to add a reference line based on specific conditions and requirements. This guide assists in the placement of vertical intersection points (VIPs) and helps ensure that the alignment meets desired criteria.

Fix the Alignment:
There are two primary methods to fix the vertical alignment:

Create New Vertical Alignment:
This method involves specifying the distance along the route and the gradient. The process begins by confirming the Finished Road Level (FRL) for the starting chainage, either by entering the level manually or selecting the position in the drawing editor. Users then specify the distance and gradient along the path as required. The drawing editor allows for precise placement and confirmation of these values, ensuring accuracy.

Assign Line as Vertical Alignment:
If an alignment line has already been drawn as a polyline or if a surveyed centreline is to be used, this option can convert the existing line into a vertical alignment. Users select the polyline, and the software opens a window displaying details such as chainage, elevation, length, gradient, curve type, curve length, and design speed. These parameters can be edited as needed.

Adjust Alignment:
Modify the alignment as necessary to meet design requirements. Use the software’s tools to make adjustments and click on the “Insert Curves” button to automatically insert vertical curves where appropriate. This ensures smooth transitions between gradients.

Correlate Curve and Suggest SSD:
To ensure adequate sight distances, use the Correlate Curve feature. Click on “Suggest SSD” (Stopping Sight Distance) to get sight distance values. The software will suggest the appropriate curve length based on the curve type and gradient, optimizing safety and performance.

Export FRL Data:
Once the vertical alignment design is complete, click on the “Export FRL Data” button to export the Finished Road Level data. This data can be used in further calculation, analysis and integration with other tools like Road Estimator. After the alignment is refined, detailed analyses are conducted to validate the design. These analyses ensure that the alignment meets all necessary criteria and performs well under anticipated traffic conditions. The final step is to prepare detailed design documents that will guide the construction phase. These documents include all necessary specifications, drawings, and guidelines required for accurate implementation.

Save FRL Definition:
Finally, click the save button to save the FRL definition. This step ensures that all design data is securely stored and can be accessed for future reference or modifications.