Web-based decision support system for automated pavement design and life-cycle cost analysis

Selecting the optimal pavement type, between rigid and flexible options, presents a significant challenge due to resource constraints and the absence of a comprehensive decision support system that integrates both design processes and life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA). This study introduces PaveDecision, a novel platform developed to automate the pavement design process while incorporating an in-depth LCCA. The research method involved analysis of empirical data, design standards, and real-world case studies. Four case studies in Vietnam showed that PaveDecision produced pavement designs closely aligned with those developed by professional engineers while simultaneously assessing long-term economic impacts of different pavement types. This research enhances the body of knowledge by automating complex pavement design calculations through advanced graph digitization techniques, integrating automated design with LCCA in a single platform, and providing comprehensive sensitivity analysis capabilities for multiple design and cost variables. The study enhances infrastructure decision-making through an efficient, objective, and practical method to address the complexities of pavement design and life-cycle costs.