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Documents published in Scipedia

• PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

  C. Chang

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 20

  
  

  Abstract

  Pavement management is a decision-making process of vital importance at the international level for the preservation of road infrastructure. The planning, programming, and execution of maintenance and rehabilitation activities to preserve the road infrastructure at an adequate level of service requires a large investment of resources. The availability of these resources, including budgetary constraints, and the progressive deterioration of the pavements due to the action of cumulative traffic loads and environmental factors create a complex problem to be solved during the management process. The purpose of pavement management practices is to find the best strategy to provide the desired level of service. From a broader perspective, pavement management covers all phases of planning, programming, analysis, design, construction, and research. A Pavement Management System (PMS) is a tool that helps agencies make cost-effective decisions about maintenance and rehabilitation policies. PMPs allow evaluating alternative strategies and predicting the impact of maintenance and rehabilitation interventions on the future performance of the pavement network. This technical article describes the evolution of pavement management systems in an effort to face the great challenge of preserving road infrastructure efficiently and sustainable to provide an adequate level of service to present and future users.

  Abstract
  Pavement management is a decision-making process of vital importance at the international level for the preservation of road infrastructure. The planning, programming, and [...]

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• RISE-UP: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY LEARNING TOOL TO GENERATE SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE

  C. Puerto, H. Cavallín, J. Perdomo, J. Muñoz, M. Suárez, D. Vázquez

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 17

  
  

  Abstract

  The damage caused to Puerto Rico's infrastructure by Hurricane María in 2017 and the seismic sequence in 2020 provided evidence that, after a natural disaster, the collaboration of different disciplines is necessary to rebuild the damaged infrastructure using new paradigms. To develop a new generation of engineering and architecture professionals who work in an integrated way to face the challenges caused by natural events, the Resilient Infrastructure and Sustainability Education - Undergraduate Program (RISE-UP) was created. The program is structured using a collaborative platform between three campuses of the University of Puerto Rico system and is based on an interdisciplinary approach using Project-Based Learning (PBL). RISE-UP consists of four courses that are part of a minor degree that is complemented by internship and undergraduate research opportunities. The courses are taken sequentially in a process that starts with the presentation of basic content and techniques, to the application of that knowledge in an integrated design project. To date, a total of 64 students have entered the program, divided into two cohorts according to their admission into the program. Students in both cohorts reflect the diversity that the project seeks in terms of specialty area, campus, and gender. The results of the student evaluations indicate that 100% of the students find the PBL methodology "valuable" or "very valuable" to understand the importance of a sustainable and resilient infrastructure, putting into practice the concepts learned. This program serves as an example of the benefits of information technology integrations to allow students from different campuses to work together toward a common goal.

  Abstract
  The damage caused to Puerto Rico's infrastructure by Hurricane María in 2017 and the seismic sequence in 2020 provided evidence that, after a natural disaster, [...]

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• EVALUATION OF MONTHLY RAINFALL CALCULATED WITH TRMM FOR METEOROLOGICAL DROUGHT STUDIES

  L. Vicario, C. Marcelo García, F. Domínguez

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 16

  
  

  Abstract

  Precipitation is considered the main variable for the evaluation of meteorological drought in a basin. Droughts are phenomena of different spatial scale, so that is convenient to have simultaneous rainfall records in time and in different locations, in order to analyze their evolution in space, depending on the size and the variability of the characteristics in the basin. In Argentina, specifically in the central region, the availability of information on the spatial variability of rainfall is not usual, so drought studies in this region are limited. Due to this it is convenient to validate the rainfall information obtained through satellite missions. The present work evaluates the validity and applicability of monthly rainfall data estimated through TRMM in ten stations in the basin of the Carcarañá River in the central region of Argentina and its subsequent application to studies on meteorological droughts through a representative index (SPI). Statistical parameters such as the concordance coefficient, the correlation coefficient and the bias were used for this analysis. There was a significant variation of the parameters with respect to the height. Was observed better coefficients in stations located in plain compared with stations located in mountainous areas.

  Abstract
  Precipitation is considered the main variable for the evaluation of meteorological drought in a basin. Droughts are phenomena of different spatial scale, so that is convenient [...]

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• A FLUTTER-BASED NON-CONVENTIONAL CONCEPT FOR ENERGY HARVESTING

  M. Segura, E. Beltramo, B. Roccia, M. Valdéz, M. Verstraete, L. Ceballos, S. Preidikman

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 15

  
  

  Abstract

  Energy harvesting has currently taken a central role due to its application to feed low power devices, such as wireless sensors, radio-frequency transceivers, charging devices and cameras. Among other alternatives, wind energy harvesting based on aeroelastic phenomena plays a pivotal role in providing sufficient power for extended operation of such devices with little or no battery replacement. In this article, a concept that explores the possibility of harvesting wind energy using an array of harvesting devices is presented. Each device is built as a long span multifunctional wing that exhibits oscillatory motions under the action of the wind. The efficiency of these systems depends on inherently non-linear phenomena, as well as on the aerodynamic synergy between the harvesters, and between them and their wakes. In addition, a preliminary study of the feasibility of the concept is conducted through co-simulation techniques that allow one to investigate the fluid-structure interaction. The results of this effort are encouraging since they highlight the potential not only of the proposed concept but also of the combination of these new technologies with aeroelastic analysis and design methods to create a new generation of power harvesters.

  Abstract
  Energy harvesting has currently taken a central role due to its application to feed low power devices, such as wireless sensors, radio-frequency transceivers, charging devices [...]

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• USE OF THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR DRIVERS BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS AND VEHICULAR CRASHES GENERATION

  W. Arias-Rojas, J. Córdoba-Maquilón, G. Hernández-Pérez

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 14

  
  

  Abstract

  This research is the result of the analysis of drivers´ behavior in a controlled scenario, using a driving simulator, in which, by measuring brain waves, the degree of concentration was (measured when driving and through the use of networks neuronal and artificial intelligence, a model of behavior of drivers was proposed to be subjected to a distracting effect while driving, which allows analyzing the most relevant factors that are reflected in errors and bad practices at the time of driving. In this research it was determined a population sample of men and woman whose ages oscillate between 16 to 90 years, from a universe obtained from a database of fatalities for 7 years. A driving simulator was built, and it was using a software for the simulation that allows different driving scenarios. Finally, risk behaviors were classified to be a factor of distraction. . 

  Abstract
  This research is the result of the analysis of drivers´ behavior in a controlled scenario, using a driving simulator, in which, by measuring brain waves, the degree [...]

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• INNOVATIVE RESEARCH THAT CONTRIBUTES TO SAFETY, SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCE IN TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS

  B. Colucci, A. Medina, D. Díaz

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 13

  
  

  Abstract

  Transportation infrastructure systems are vital for the effective, efficient, safe, and sustainable movement of people and goods, and promote the economic development of cities and countries for present and future generations. This article presents pertinent statistics related to mobility, safety, accessibility, equity, reliability, and resilience of transportation systems in the United States (U.S.) and internationally, and present some of the present and future challenges. Safety, congestion, and the human factor are emphasized in combination with innovative ideas and research-based remedial measures at the State and Federal level to mitigate congestion and improve safety for all users. Innovative ideas include the U.S. Federal Highway Administration's Every Day Counts program initiatives, findings from University Transportation Centers (UTC) SAFER-SIM ,and the National Institute for Congestion Reduction (NICR), and the use of driving simulators, virtual reality, unmanned aerial systems and alternative modes of transport such as e-scooters, and the successful management of knowledge transfer of these innovative initiatives at in person seminars and webinars  through the Puerto Rico Transportation Technology Transfer Center.

  Abstract
  Transportation infrastructure systems are vital for the effective, efficient, safe, and sustainable movement of people and goods, and promote the economic development of cities [...]

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• CLASSICAL STRESS ANALYSIS OF A FUSE PLATE THAT FAILED DURING HURRICANE MARÍA IN PUERTO RICO

  J. Morales, J. Sánchez, S. Jesús, J. Caraballo

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 12

  
  

  Abstract

  A large number of breakaway-type highway signs toppled over during hurricane María in Puerto Rico.  The cause was the unintended rupture of the fuse plates, a key component of the breakaway system.  The design of fuse plates is unusual because two opposing constraints must be precisely balanced: 1. they must be weak enough to rupture during collision of an errant vehicle, thus minimizing injuries to passengers and damage to the vehicle, but 2. strong enough to resist wind loads.  These uncommon constraints attracted the interest of the authors.  The following question guided the research: Could classical stress analysis, in conjunction with established failure theories, predict the failure of an actual fuse plate that fractured during hurricane María?  This investigation fills a gap in the literature by examining a more refined classical model of the stresses than previously considered.  A wind gust speed of 155 mph at the top of the sign was assumed.  The yield and ultimate strengths were obtained experimentally with one tensile specimen machined from a failed fuse plate.  The classical stress analysis, in conjunction with the von Mises yield failure criterion, accurately predicted yielding of the fuse plate; however, higher wind speeds would have been required to reach fracture.  It was concluded that the simplified model available in the literature is adequate to predict yielding.  Its error was less than 1% when compared to the more refined model developed in this study.

  Abstract
  A large number of breakaway-type highway signs toppled over during hurricane María in Puerto Rico.  The cause was the unintended rupture of the fuse plates, a [...]

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• LANDSLIDE SCIENCE IN PUERTO RICO: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

  K. Hughes, A. Morales-Vélez

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 11

  
  

  Abstract

  This article presents an overview of landslide investigation in Puerto Rico from the time of Spanish control until the present.  In addition, a projection for future developments is offered.  The island’s tectonic and geographic situation combined with a history of intense agriculture practices yield a predisposition of landslide hazard.  Mass wasting manifests itself in several modalities with shallow soil failures being most common and deep bedrock slides being most destructive.  Movements can be provoked by seismic activity but are regularly triggered by high-intensity rainfall events associated with tropical cyclone systems. Advances in landslides science made during the latter 20th century were made possible by earlier topographic and geologic mapping efforts by the United States Geologic Survey. In the 21st century, instrumentation and monitoring endeavors have been made more effective with the use of emerging technologies.  In the near future, advanced real time systems and forecasting programs are possible, and the continued investigation of landslides as principal agents of erosion will lead to a more focused understanding of surficial processes over geologic time.  In a landscape faced with natural disasters, it is necessary to meet these phenomena with an adequate level of commitment in order to mold a more resilient society. 

  Abstract
  This article presents an overview of landslide investigation in Puerto Rico from the time of Spanish control until the present.  In addition, a projection for future [...]

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• NEW BUILDING CODES 2018 AND EDUCATION TO IMPROVE RESILIENCE OF COASTAL INFRASTRUCTURE IN PUERTO RICO

  C. Puerto, I. Pagán-Trinidad, L. Aponte-Bermúdez, S. Adams

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 10

  
  

  Abstract

  The archipelago of Puerto Rico is prone to multiple hazards due to its very particular location in the Caribbean and its frequent exposure to extreme natural events. Since 2017, the Island has faced hurricanes, tropical storms, a sequence of earthquakes, drought, and various flood events caused by extreme cyclonic rainfall that have caused damage to coastal infrastructure. To support Puerto Rico's recovery after Hurricane María, numerous projects were developed and implemented. Many of these projects were funded through FEMA and acted as key catalysts for response, recovery, and public policy. FEMA's Mitigation Assessment Team, also known as MAT, developed recommendations to rebuild a more resistant infrastructure. Among the key recommendations is the adoption of the Puerto Rico Building Code of 2018. To facilitate the transfer of knowledge to the community in general (students, teachers, professionals, first responders and the workforce), the Center for Coastal Resilience (CRC) established two educational programs: the first is a continuing education program open to the general public; and the second is a formal program for university students that includes courses leading to degrees, projects, research, and internships. Adoption of the latest building codes and FEMA recommendations provide the tools for a resilient coastal infrastructure. The continuing education program has impacted 2,311 community members to date, increasing their knowledge and understanding of the different stages of prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, and risk mitigation of coastal infrastructure.

  Abstract
  The archipelago of Puerto Rico is prone to multiple hazards due to its very particular location in the Caribbean and its frequent exposure to extreme natural events. Since [...]

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• FORENSIC EVALUATION AND LESSONS LEARNED OF PRESTRESSED CONCRETE POLE FAILURES IN PUERTO RICO DURING HURRICANE MARIA

  F. Costa, O. Esquilín-Mangual, D. Valdes, C. Crane, S. Wood, W. Long

  RIDNAIC (2021). Vol. 19-20, 9

  
  

  Abstract

  This article summarizes the lessons learned from the evaluation of failed concrete utility poles in Puerto Rico as a consequence of Hurricane Maria. Teams were deployed between October 3rd to 11th 2017, to cover the west, northwest, south, and east of the island. The evaluation presents sample cases of the failed poles around the island but does not attempt to conduct an inventory. The Puerto Rico building code was being updated based on changes in the International Building Code and the effects of Hurricane Georges. However, many poles made from previous designs are still in service, and many of them failed as a consequence of design deficiencies and improper construction practices. Poles manufactured under the updated codes failed mostly due to foundation issues or structural overload from nearby vegetation impact and the failure of in-line poles, especially wood poles and pre-Georges concrete poles.

  Abstract
  This article summarizes the lessons learned from the evaluation of failed concrete utility poles in Puerto Rico as a consequence of Hurricane Maria. Teams were deployed between [...]

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Articles (Documents not available in Scipedia)

• Developing an Educational Module to Increase Engineering Student's Knowledge of Highway Work Zones and Temporary Traffic Control Plans

  B Colucci, A Figueroa, ...

  2020 ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition, 14, 2020

• Simulation-Based Analysis of a Driver-Pedestrian Conflict at an Uncontrolled Location in an Urban Multi-Lane Arterial

  B Colucci, D Valdés-Díaz, A Figueroa, M Rojas, ...

  99th Transportation Research Board (TRB) Annual Meeting, 2020

• Simulation-Based Analysis of a Driver-Pedestrian Conflict at an Uncontrolled Location in an Urban Multi-Lane Arterial

  AM Figueroa-Medina, DM Valdés Díaz, B Colucci Ríos, MX Rojas Ibarra, ...

  International Conference on Transportation and Development 2020, 97-109, 2020

• Evaluation of Driver Performance and Safety Countermeasures for Schools Located in an Urban Arterial Highway Using a Driving Simulator

  B Colucci, D Valdés-Díaz, A Figueroa, M Colón, Enid & Rojas

  Road Safety & Simulation (RSS) Annual Conference, 2019

• Assesing the Impact of Smartphone Usage while Driving in Work Zones

  D Valdés, C López, B Colucci, A Figueroa, R García, E Colón, M Rojas, ...

  98th Transportation Research Board (TRB) Annual Meeting, 2019

• Assessing the Impact of Smartphone Usage While Driving in Work Zones [supporting datasets]

  DM Valdés Díaz, C Lopez del Puerto, B Colucci Rios, AMF Medina, ...

  Safety Research Using Simulation (SAFER-SIM) University Transportation Center, 2019

• Evaluation of Safety Enhancements in School Zones with Familiar and Unfamiliar Drivers

  DMV Diaz, M Knodler, BC Ríos, AMF Medina, MR Ibarra, EC Torres, ...

  University of Massachusetts at Amherst, 2019

• Enhancing School Zone Safety: Case Studies in Puerto Rico using Driving Simulation

  AF Medina

  University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez, 2019

• Operational Analysis of School Zones Using a Driving Simulator

  D Valdés, A Figueroa, B Colucci, E Colón, M Rojas, R García, Y Taveras, ...

  International Conference on Transportation & Development (ICTD 2019), 2019

• Speed Behavior in a Suburban School Zone: A Driving Simulation Study with Familiar and Unfamiliar Drivers from Puerto Rico and Massachussetts

  D Valdés, A Figueroa, B Colucci, M Knodler, M. Rojas, ...

  10th International Conference on Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics (AHFE), 2019

• Transportation Transformed with Resiliency as a Vital Component: The Case of Puerto Rico's Surface Transportation System-Two Years after the Passage of Category 4 Hurricane María

  B Colucci

  Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) & Texas District Annual Meeting, 2019

• Enhancing School Zone Safety: Case Studies in Puerto Rico Using Driving Simulation [supporting datasets]

  DM Valdes Diaz, B Colucci Rios, AMF Medina, E Colon Torres, ...

  Safety Research Using Simulation (SAFER-SIM) University Transportation Center, 2019

• Evaluation of Safety Enhancements in School Zones with Familiar and Unfamiliar Drivers [supporting datasets]

  DM Valdes Diaz, MA Knodler, B Colucci Rios, AMF Medina, MXR Ibarra, ...

  Safety Research Using Simulation (SAFER-SIM) University Transportation Center, 2019

• Operational and Safety Performance of Signage and Pavement Markings for Managed Lanes Using a Driving Simulator

  BR Cruz, JR González, RG Rosario, EC Torres, DV Díaz, BC Ríos

  Transportation Research Board 97th Annual MeetingTransportation Research Board, 2018

• Evaluation of Roadway Geometrics and Posted Speed Limits with Random Forest in the PR-22 Dynamic Toll Lane Using a Driving Simulator

  J Ruiz-González, B Colucci-Ríos, D Valdés-Díaz, B Ruiz-Cruz, ...

  International Conference on Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics, 906-916, 2018

• Lessons Learned for Puerto Rico's Transportation Infrastructure after Hurricane María

  PE Benjamín Colucci Ríos PhD, AMS BSCE

  Institute of Transportation Engineers. ITE Journal 88 (10), 38-43, 2018

• Assessing the Impact of Smartphone Usage while Driving in Work Zones

  DM Valdés Díaz, B Colucci Rios, AMF Medina, R Garcia Rosario, ...

  Safety Research Using Simulation (SAFER-SIM) University Transportation Center, 2018

• Accomplishments and lessons learned of the first four years of the implementation of the Puerto Rico Strategic Highway Safety Plan

  B Colucci, JC Rivera, LA León

  18th International Conference Road Safety on Five Continents (RS5C 2018 …, 2018

• Dynamic Toll Lane: A Success Story as Part of the of Public Private Partnerships in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico

  BC Ríos

  Advances in Public-Private Partnerships, 159-170, 2017

• Phase II: operational and safety-based analyses of varied toll lane configurations.

  D Valdes, B Colucci

  Safety Research Using Simulation (SAFER-SIM) University Transportation Center, 2016

• Operational and safety-based analyses of varied toll lanes.

  DM Valdes Diaz, J Ruiz Gonzalez, B Colucci Rios, B Ruiz Cruz, ...

  University Transportation Centers Program (US), 2016

• Operational and Safety-Based Analysis of Toll Plaza Signane Using Driving Simulation

  D Valdés, B Colucci, D Fisher, J Valdés, E Colón, ...

  Advances in Transportation Studies (ATS), 23-36, 2016

• Driving Simulation of the Safety and Operation Performance at a Freeway Toll Plaza

  D Valdés-Díaz, B Colucci-Ríos, D Fisher, B Ruiz, R Colón, Enid & García

  Transportation Research Record (TRR) Journal-Transportation Research Board …, 2016

• el puente

  EL PUENTE

  Boletín EL PUENTE 26 (02), 2012

• Development and Evaluation of a Software Tool That Integrates GPS and Video Data From a Road Alignment to Perform Road Condition, Safety Audits and Inventory Surveys

  KR Santiago-Chaparro, B Colucci-Rios, AM Figueroa Medina

  Transportation Research Board 87th Annual MeetingTransportation Research Board, 2008

• Simulation of metro operations under disruptions: application to Tren Urbano in San Juan, Puerto Rico

  DM Valdes, FE Martínez-Marínez, B Colucci-Rios, S Bartolomei-Suárez

  Transportation Research Board 85th Annual MeetingTransportation Research Board, 2006

• Control de plagas en arroz pre-empacado

  R Fraga, J González, B Ríos, B Simón, G García

  Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos 14 (2), 66-70, 2004

• Evaluación de aspectos de seguridad y desarrollo de guías para identificar intersecciones peligrosas en Puerto Rico

  KD Carrasquillo, BC Ríos, JQ Díaz, FL Villafañe

  International Journal of Natural Disasters, Accidents and Civil …, 2003

• Reflexión sobre el diseño y rehabilitación de futuras obras civiles para mitigar desastres naturales en la infraestructura civil

  BC Rios

  Revista Internacional de Desastres Naturales, Accidentes e Infraestructura …, 2002

• Structural evaluation and analysis of instrumented in-service concrete pavements subjected to heavy dynamic loads

  JT Izquierdo, LR Agrait, BC Rĺos

  Transportation research record 1568 (1), 24-34, 1997

• Analytical Study of Concrete Pavement Behavior

  LR Agrait, BC Rios

  PUERTO RICO UNIV MAYAGUEZ, 1989

• AN OPTIMAL PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AT THE NETWORK LEVEL

  KC SINHA

  North American Pavement Management Conference, March 18-21, 1985, Royal York …, 1985

• An optimal pavement management system at the network level

  B Colucci-Rios, KC Sinha

  Proceedings of the 1st North American Pavement Management Conference (NAPMC …, 1985

• Optimal pavement management approach using roughness measurements

  B Colucci-Rios, KC Sinha

  Transportation Research Record, 1985

• Development of a Method for Establishing Resurfacing Priorities for the Pavement Management in Indiana: Volume 2, Study Procedures and Results

  B Colucci-Rios, KC Sinha, EJ Yoder

  Joint Transportation Research Program, 1984

• Development of a method for establishing maintenance priorities for the pavement management system in Indiana

  B Colucci-Rios

  Thesis presented to Purdue University, at West Lafayette, Ind., in partial …, 1984

• Methodology for Evaluating Increase in Pavement Maintenance Costs that Result from Increased Truck Weights on Statewide Basis

  B Colucci-Rios, EJ Yoder

  Transportation Research Record, 1983

• Evaluation of existing aggregate roads to determine suitability for resurfacing

  EJ Yoder, DG Shurig, B Colucci-Rios

  Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board …, 1982

• Effects of Raising Load Limits on Pavements and Bridges in Indiana

  EJ Yoder, B Colucci-Rios, JJ Fraczek, JA Skees

  Joint Transportation Research Program, 1979