METAP
Manual Efficient Trail Assessment Process
METAP
Manual Efficient Trail
Assessment Process
economical and efficient
Following the same principles as UTAP, the Manual Efficient Trail Assessment Process (METAP) enables an economical and efficient trail assessment. The METAP system utilizes the HETAP cart and software, along with two perpendicular SmartTool™ levels mounted on the front of the system to simultaneously display grade and cross slope. Distance is measured by a digital distance encoder on the right wheel of the cart. Slope values along with distance can be manually entered into the HETAP software, while a camera and external GPS unit automatically collect location information at every collection point. As an economical alternative to the HETAP system, METAP allows a single technician to collect detailed and accurate trail and feature data directly into a database.
METAP/HETAP comparison
METAP/HETAP comparison
METAP vs HETAP
METAP follows the same general principles as its predecessors, UTAP (the Universal Trail Assessment Process) and HETAP (High-Efficiency Trail Assessment Process). All systems collect objective trail measurements, produce detailed trail data for land managers, and provide summary trail reports for trail users. The main advantage to using METAP and HETAP is the ability to collect data and produce trail reports more quickly and accurately with only one person. This creates more opportunity to assess multiple trails while saving time and reducing personnel costs. The main difference between METAP and HETAP, as noted below, is the method of data entry for slopes and distance. Grade, cross slope, and distance must be manually entered into the HETAP software running on the laptop, resulting in a significantly discounted price.
The following list shows the similarities and differences between METAP and HETAP.
METAP
The METAP system utilizes the HETAP software, which provides easy screen flow and simple data entry. Trail data is automatically stored and sorted in a database. Detailed trail data and summary reports can be analyzed and printed directly using the HETAP software.
Two perpendicular SmartTool™ levels are mounted on the front of the system to simultaneously display grade and cross slope. Distance is displayed by a digital distance encoder on the right wheel of the cart. Slopes and distance are manually entered into the HETAP software.
HETAP is designed to enable one person to collect trail information. However, two or more individuals can still be used in the assessment process. Managers often require at least two individuals to work together for safety reasons. It is encouraged during training exercises that all available trail assessors work together as a team for review and consistency in measuring trail data. When two individuals are collecting trail data, the second person can measure trail width and features using a tape measure and a notepad or datasheet. The second data collector can periodically enter the features into HETAP or they can be entered later as long as feature locations (distance) are recorded with the feature notes. If compass readings are being recorded without a GPS, this person can also use a compass to record trail directions.
All grade, cross-slope, tread width and surface data in the HETAP software program is related to the station that has most recently been recorded by selecting the [Record Station] or [Record Feature] button. Distances, grades and cross slopes are continuously displayed in the HETAP program and as soon as a trail tread attribute changes a new station should be recorded to automatically record the new grade and cross-slope. You can also record stations and features that have the same tread width, surface type and characteristics as the previous station since the HETAP software copies the data from the previous station or feature for you.
HETAP
The HETAP software provides easy screen flow and simple data entry. Trail data is automatically stored and sorted in a database. Detailed trail data and summary reports can be analyzed and printed directly using the HETAP software.
The Wheeled Instrumentation Sensor Package (WISP) and the HETAP software provide high-speed data collection. On average, an individual using HETAP can collect detailed and accurate trail information at one mile per hour, while recording many features. It is also feasible to collect detailed trail data for a backcountry trail several miles long in only one day. As a result, longer trail lengths can be assessed with a greater amount of detail in a shorter amount of time.
HETAP is designed to enable one person to collect trail information. However, two or more individuals can still be used in the assessment process. Managers often require at least two individuals to work together for safety reasons. It is encouraged during training exercises that all available trail assessors work together as a team for review and consistency in measuring trail data. When two individuals are collecting trail data, the second person can measure trail width and features using a tape measure and a notepad or datasheet. The second data collector can periodically enter the features into HETAP or they can be entered later as long as feature locations (distance) are recorded with the feature notes. If compass readings are being recorded without a GPS, this person can also use a compass to record trail directions.
All grade, cross-slope, tread width and surface data in the HETAP software program is related to the station that has most recently been recorded by selecting the [Record Station] or [Record Feature] button. Distances, grades and cross slopes are continuously displayed in the HETAP program and as soon as a trail tread attribute changes a new station should be recorded to automatically record the new grade and cross-slope. You can also record stations and features that have the same tread width, surface type and characteristics as the previous station since the HETAP software copies the data from the previous station or feature for you.
The METAP system offers all the same benefits as the HETAP system!
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HETAP option 1
HETAP wheel
The HETAP Cart is the perfect vehicle for wider trails and urban routes. Able to carry everything necessary for any assessment, this cart makes the entire process lightweight and fast.
HETAP 3.0 software
The High-Efficiency Trail Assessment Process (HETAP) software will save you time and money. The software is designed to reduce data errors, expedite the assessment process, and semi-automate the calculation of Trail Access Information (TAI). Remember, TAI data is required to create trail signage that meets the ABA and USFS Accessibility Guidelines. HETAP enables a single assessor to collect precise trail and feature data at an average of one mile per hour. Data is automatically stored and can be sorted by the HETAP software to provide detailed summary trail reports for analysis.
laptop
A durable, weather-resistant laptop and battery package that can last long hours outdoors is essential for a HETAP assessment. Beneficial Designs can provide a Semi-Rugged (drop and spill-resistant) or Fully-Rugged laptop with HETAP 3.0 installed and ready to use.
Contact us for more information regarding pricing and the best laptops to use for outdoor assessment work.
SmartTool™ Level with SmartFeet
The SmartTool™ with SmartFeet is a waterproof, dustproof, and backlit digital level with added feet for a wider stance to reduce the possibility of tipping and imbalances. The SmartTool™ offers objective and detailed slope measurements in degrees, percent slope, and pitch to 0.1 degree of resolution and accuracy. Using a standard 9-volt battery, this inclinometer also features audio sound at both level and plumb.
The SmartFeet are precision-machined feet added to both ends of the 24-inch (60-cm) SmartTool™ level to prevent teetering on uneven surfaces. Teetering can cause significant measurement errors and is common on all types of surfaces. The position of the feet can be moved to the end of the SmartTool™ to measure a grade or cross-slope over a distance of up to 24 inches, representing the stance of a typical person moving across a path of travel, with or without the use of adaptive equipment. One of the two feet also provides a wider base and thus creates three points of contact to reduce tipping in the lateral direction.
A SmartStrap is also included, enabling easy measurement without the need to bend over.
SmartFeet (pair)
SmartFeet are precision-machined feet added to both ends of a 24-inch (60-cm) SmartTool™ level to prevent teetering on uneven surfaces. Teetering can cause significant measurement errors and is common on all types of surfaces. The position of the feet can be moved to the end of the SmartTool™ to measure a grade or cross-slope over a distance of up to 24 inches, representing the stance of a typical person moving across a path of travel, with or without the use of adaptive equipment. One of the two feet also provides a wider base and thus creates three points of contact to reduce tipping in the lateral direction.
SmartFeet are specifically designed for the SmartTool™ level.
tape measure
A tape measure is an essential tool for any trail assessment–whether automated or manual–providing dimensions of tread width, features, obstructions, and more. Though we include a tape measure in our UTAP package, any typical tape measure is sufficient.
UTAP/HETAP training guide
The UTAP/HETAP training guide provides all of the detailed instructions needed to use the UTAP tools to practice and learn the Universal Trail Assessment Process. It also contains the information needed to perform the High Efficiency Assessment Process. The guide is fully illustrated with over 100 images and illustrations. The guide contains all the information needed to pass the UTAP/HETAP Certification exam which is required as part of getting certified by Beneficial Designs and American trails as a certified trail assessment coordinator.
trail assessment methods
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