Abstract
New measuring techniques that have made it possible to study the effect of a finisher's controls (height of tow points) and settings (frequencies of vibrators and tampers, operating speed, etc.) On its behaviour (thickness, levelling, and precompaction) are described. The laws governing this behaviour are stated, and two models that account for its main features are presented. Finally, possible consequences of this knowledge for the future development of the finisher are considered, particularly the automation of its operation.