Vertical alignment design

After the horizontal geometric design, vertical curve design can be conducted to ensure continuous grade variation for safety and comfort. Stopping sight distance and curve length will be calculated using the formula suggested in the AASHTO manual [1]. Further discussion on the equations used is included in the Appendix. Click on the vertical alignment icon tool  from the toolbar to open the vertical alignment window as shown in Figure 9(a). The previously entered elevation information of each station is plotted versus the calculated road distance from the starting station based on the horizontal design. Click on the elevation landmark on the graph  to view its location and elevation information in status bar, Figure 9(b). Click on the line segment to view the grade information in the status bar, Figure 9(c).

Figure 9(a) Elevation profile of stations/landmarks

Figure 9(b) Station information

Figure 9(c) Grade information