More cyclists than ever before on the Danube cycle paths: viadonau and AIT rely on the latest technology for maintenance | via Danube

Over 900,000 cyclists traveled on the Danube cycle paths in 2023; Laser scanning and artificial intelligence set standards for the “stairway of the future”

Vienna (OTS) – Around 500 kilometers of riverside paths – 320 kilometers of which are asphalted and 260 kilometers marked as Danube cycle paths – demand the constant attention of the viadonau conservation professionals. Safe routes require a trained eye – especially on the Danube. After all, the clientele is highly mobile and constantly growing.

On the occasion of European Bicycle Day on June 3rd, there is an encouraging trend in the use of the Danube cycle paths. In 2023, compared to the previous year, an increase of 11% in bike contacts was recorded. Last year’s temperatures turned out to be ideal cycling weather. The published statistics show that the number of cyclists on the Danube Cycle Path reached a peak (926,000) in 2023 and even exceeded the record year of 2019. (Source: Cycling traffic count on the Danube Cycle Path 2023, WGD Donau Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH)

However, weather and diverse uses can put a lot of strain on the paths and thus endanger safety. While the condition of the bank paths was previously recorded visually using software on board a vehicle with a specially modified recording basket, the efficiency and precision of the recording have been raised to a new digital level. Following a Europe-wide tender, the experts from AIT were brought on board to ensure the consistent and competent implementation of this important digitalization project on the Danube.

„In addition to being a valuable natural space and sustainable infrastructure, the Danube is also a paradise for those seeking relaxation. I am therefore particularly pleased that the cycle paths and stairways managed by viadonau are enjoying record-breaking popularity. Cycling and walking are fun, healthy, and also mean more climate protection in mobility. I would like to thank viadonau for the good and innovative support and maintenance of the paths, where the team always focuses on safety“, says Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler happily.

The AIT-RoadLab uses laser scanning and camera equipment to scan viadonau’s entire stairway network and view it with high precision. High-resolution 360-degree images similar to Google Street View are also recorded. Using a new system designed at AIT, not only is the condition of all asphalted stairs and cycle paths recorded, but at the same time the special usage needs for cyclists and factors that have a negative impact on riding comfort, such as root bulges and pavement edges, are taken into account. In addition, ground markings and the clearance profile are also recorded to determine whether obstacles such as branches protrude dangerously into the path from the side or from above. And in the future, the AIT BikeStar, a transport bike equipped with high-precision, state-of-the-art sensors, will be able to carry out precise measurements on narrow paths where the RoadLab cannot fit.

The data collected is evaluated by an artificial intelligence developed at AIT and goes into its own intuitive management system, which serves as an important tool for viadonau’s maintenance teams in identifying and prioritizing necessary renovation measures. This enables the staircase network to be maintained more efficiently and therefore more cost-effectively, while at the same time ensuring maximum driving comfort and a high level of traffic safety.

Questions & Contact:

via donau – Austrian Waterways Company mbH
Christoph Caspar, MSc, Bakk. Phil.
Head of Communication & Knowledge Management
43 50 4321-1602
christoph.caspar@viadonau.org
www.viadonau.org
via donau – Austrian Waterways Company mbH
Donau-City-Strasse 1
1220 Vienna/Vienna, Austria