I did manage to learn more about the process to better explain what the chopper will be doing. Since we're so close to University of Maryland Medical Center, I'll try explaining in those terms.
Thiink of this aerial mapping as sort of an MRI of the proposed race course. Prior to filming, the race professionals will be placing photo sensitive monitors inside the curbs. This will allow them to calculate an exact measurement of road width at every point along the course in their imaging.
This is particularly crucial at the hairpin turns, which have strict requirements for the amount of asphalt needed. An aerial map can determine if the site meets the standards, or how it has to be modified to work. One such turn will be on Russell Street between the two stadiums.
The map will indicate the best places for viewing stands, like parking and turning lanes that are part of the road but not necessary for the course.
Most interesting, though, is that the sensors can detect anamolies in the surface that will have to be accommodated. Everything from potholes to utility caps will show up on on this CT scan. It will give race organizers (and their partners) a clear idea of what kind of work has to be done to make city streets race ready.
Here's the best part for the many of you out there who ask how the plans are progressing --- the analysis of this imaging is almost instantaneous. Terry says the information will be available and submitted to the City by next week. From the data gathered, the team will be able to determine infrastructure costs as well as what needs to be done to fine tune the course layout to maximize the viewer experience.
So stay tuned. More news will be coming our way in the near future.
No comments:
Post a Comment