There is limited knowledge on the nature of the forces that heavy vehicles impart on pavement surfaces in dynamic conditions. Currently there is debate regarding the characteristics of these forces and the detrimental effects they have on the pavement. Knowledge of the relationships between dynamic loads and vehicle characteristics is required by state road agencies and regulators to address concerns on appropriate mass limits for heavy vehicles. To fulfil this need, a research tool has been developed by ARRB Group to measure the dynamic wheel loads of heavy vehicles. The tool consists of a hub-mounted laser sensor that measures tyre deflection. Static calibrations of tyre deflections against wheel loads were conducted and the performance of the measuring system was assessed. The tool is transferable between vehicles, making it possible to collect data across a range of wheel rim sizes, suspensions and heavy vehicle types. On-road tests were conducted travelling at 60 and 80 km/h over a smooth and rough road. The data collected from these tests showed that faithful vertical wheel information can be obtained and indicates good accuracy. This paper details the measurement technique, testing program and the recorded test data. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E217099.
Samenvatting