Procedures for obtaining transverse profiles and rut depths on highway pavements are described. This information can be obtained using automated equipment and procedures presently available without disrupting traffic. Results of one of these procedures (which has been used to evaluate rutting on the Strategic Highway Research Program's long-term pavement performance studies sites) is compared with results of the straight edge and dipstick methods. Comparisons and information on the speed, accuracy, and safety of the survey are provided. The benefits of cross profiles versus other rutting measurements are also discussed.
Abstract