What is Swept Path Analysis and Why Does It Matter?
- LRK
- Sep 22, 2025
- 1 min read
When planning roadworks, construction sites, or access routes, it’s not enough to know the size of a vehicle - you also need to understand how it moves. This is where Swept Path Analysis (SPA) comes in. It’s a crucial design and planning tool that helps engineers and traffic management specialists predict the movement of vehicles as they turn, reverse, or manoeuvre through a given space.
Understanding Vehicle Movement
Swept Path Analysis uses specialist CAD software to map out the physical space a vehicle will require during a manoeuvre. It takes into account not just the vehicle’s body but also the swing of the front and rear overhangs, wheel paths, and clearances. This level of detail ensures that large vehicles, such as HGVs, buses, or recovery trucks, can safely navigate tight corners, junctions, or temporary works areas.
Why It Matters for Projects
Accurate Swept Path Analysis prevents costly mistakes and delays. Without it, projects risk designing layouts that are unworkable in practice, leading to last-minute changes or unsafe conditions. For example, a construction site entrance that looks fine on paper might be impossible for a lorry to access without SPA. By modelling movement in advance, teams can make informed decisions about road layouts, access points, and safety measures.
Supporting Safety and Efficiency
Ultimately, Swept Path Analysis saves time, money, and reduces risk. It ensures projects meet compliance standards, improves safety for both road users and workers, and allows traffic to flow smoothly around worksites.
Get in touch with our team today to discuss your project requirements and discover how we can help keep things moving smoothly.
