XenomatiX, a provider of advanced digital solutions for infrastructure management, unveiled the new crack detection module, CraXter, during this year’s Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting in Washington. CraXter detects and analyzes cracks present on the pavement surface, integrated into Digital Road Plus, XenomatiX’ proprietary software platform that uses edge AI. 

This module strengthens the existing offerings of XenomatiX’ 6D road scanning, which collects road data through a combination of advanced sensors, a lidar and artificial intelligence algorithms. 

CraXter identifies and classifies road defects into four major categories: longitudinal, transverse, alligator and block cracks. It  does not just detect these different crack types, but it  also measures their width and depth—key characteristics that are crucial for calculating the Pavement Condition Index (PCI). By providing data on the severity of cracks, the system helps prioritize maintenance efforts and ensures that the most critical issues are addressed first. 

Output Formats

One of the unique aspects of CraXter is its versatility in data presentation. Once cracks are detected, the system generates XML and LAS files containing comprehensive details about each detected crack. These files describe cracks in segments, helping users quickly assess road conditions at various levels, from localized patch repairs to major resurfacing projects. It is compatible with any Pavement Management System (PMS), ensuring that municipalities and road maintenance contractors can seamlessly integrate the findings into their existing asset management software. 

The Importance of Crack Detection for Road Health 

Detecting and cataloging cracks in road surfaces is vital for long-term road health and safety. Cracks are not influencing structural characteristics as IRI or Rutting but can cause roads to deteriorate quickly resulting in avoidable budget spending. The increasing number of vehicles, heavier vehicle loads, and more severe weather conditions necessitate more frequent and thorough road inspections. 

XenomatiX provides a solution that is innovative, accurate, and automated, ultimately contributing to safer and more durable roads for everyone.