Process analysis of rockfalls with stationary terrestrial LiDAR and RockFall Analyst

Abstract

Rockfalls are a hazard concern for many transportation corridors in Alberta and British Columbia. A method of analyzing and further understanding rockfalls could help to reduce the hazard potential that rockfalls present. Rockfall hazard assessments are carried out in three steps: (1) identification of hazard zones, (2) site investigation to establish the site characteristics and rockfall source, and (3) empirical and numerical analyses. This study investigates the use of terrestrial LiDAR technology along highways in Southern Alberta for the second step of rockfall hazard assessment, and the RockFall Analyst software program on data obtained from a measured rockfall event at Tornado Mountain for the third step. The limitations of technologies involved are described, as well as the importance of the topography that describes rockfall trajectory and determines rockfall energy.