Published: 2000 | Category: Activity management , Research programme , Research & reports | Audience: General
Over the past decade, the longitudinal profiling of wheelpaths has become routine with the advent of laser-based high-speed monitoring systems.
A study was undertaken in 1998 to investigate the suitability of latest generation spectral analysis methods and quarter and half-truck dynamic simulations when applied to wheelpath profile date to provide more complete information on ride quality and dynamic wheel loading of roads.
The output generated by the spectral analysis and vehicle modelling approaches was assessed in terms of relevance to project and network level decision making associated with pavement maintenance management.
A new index is proposed, which, when used in conjunction with IRI/NAASRA roughness, may provide earlier warning of accelerated road deterioration due to excitation of the bounce and pitch modes of heavy trucks.
Keywords: dynamic wheel forces, pavement loading, pavement management, ride quality, road profiles, road roughness, special analysis, vehicle dynamics, modelling, wavelet analysis
