Three-layer foam rubber models were subjected to moving loads atdifferent speeds. The response is reported in terms of displacements in three pavement sections, representing both thin and thick surface layers and bottom layers. The model tests provided high-quality data against which the validity of different numerical codes that canmodel moving-load effects on pavement can be verified. The recordedresponse reveals that the shape of the vertical displacement pulse is substantially affected by the speed of the moving load. Among thethree models tested, the most inflexible model indicated that the amplitude of the response is unaffected by the speed of the moving load. With more flexible models, a substantial reduction in displacement amplitude occurs for points located deeper below the surface. A close examination of the vertical displacement pulse shape suggests that the pulse is much narrower than that given by a haversine function. This paper appears in transportation research record no. 1307, Pavement analysis, design, rehabilitation, and environmental factors 1991.
Abstract