Trials characterise the prototype system. Although the solid-state LiDAR sensors are not found to be robust in this application, the remaining sensors show strong potential for use in road condition assessment. A wider trial of the prototype system in a potential application – the measurement of roughness (IRI) on developing world road networks – was carried out in El Salvador. The prototype shows comparable performance with alternatives, combined with higher levels of practicality and capability, and the potential for higher levels of consistency through a common low-cost measurement platform. In the light of this research, it is felt that, following refinements to the prototype, the initial application for the device would be for condition surveys in developing world nations.
The client in El Salvador tells the story from their perspective here: Data Collection in the Time of COVID-19 | Millennium Challenge Corporation (mcc.gov)
