Wavelength-Related Ride Equation

Abstract

The existing equation used by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to evaluate ride quality from measured profiles is based on measurements obtained from a rating session conducted in the late 1960s. Since its original development more than 30 years ago, a number of changes have required a reevaluation of the current equation. These include changes in vehicle design, such as improvements in vehicle suspension and handling characteristics, and the switch from the predominantly large automobiles used in the late 1960s to the smaller and more fuel-efficient midsized and compact cars of today. Additionally, TxDOT has changed the section interval used for reporting ride or present serviceability index from 0.2 to 0.1 mi. A new ride equation based on a specific set of profile wavelengths is described. In addition, possible uses of the equation for construction control and bump detection are discussed.

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