Digital Inspection Technology

Three engineers use a GPS surveying device to measure various construction sites for accuracy.

Overview

AEC Applications has introduced GPS (Global Positioning System) and UTS (Universal Total Station) Inspection Technology to construction for inspection of roadway projects. This technology repurposes the Electronic Engineering Data (EED) which was used to produce the construction contract plans. EED consists of the CAD models, coordinate geometry files, and digital terrain models. This technology allows the inspector to verify locations of contract items and has also been approved as a method of measurement for payment. Contractors can also use the EED for bidding, layout and Automated Machine Control/Guidance purposes. In the future, this technology may also be used for as-builts and asset management.

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What software is being used?

The Department has adopted Trimble Business Center and Trimble Siteworks for data preparation, inspection and reporting. The EED is produced using Bentley MicroStation, InRoads and OpenRoads software. The Department will be furnishing both the native formats and converted formats, at advertisement, on the State Contracting Portal.

ACORN

The Advanced Continuous Operation Reference Network (ACORN) is a statewide system of base stations that the Department utilizes to provide the necessary real-time corrections for the GPS equipment. It is operated by the University of Connecticut through a partnership with CTDOT. This network is free to the public and a username and password can be acquired by logging onto the ACORN website. For answers to frequently asked questions, click here.