An overview of various new road profile quality evaluation criteria: part 1

Abstract

A multibody tractor–trailer model specialised in measuring the impact of road surface quality on the efficiency of transport was developed. It was calibrated and validated using a coastdown tests experimental campaign. The model was then used within an extensive profile study that linked specific profiles to their impact on energy consumption, vehicle wear, driver and passenger health, and safety. Two hundred and seventy 1 km long profiles were tested with the multibody vehicle travelling at 100 km/h. It allowed to identify trends in the relationships between various profile rating criteria and the impacts aforementioned. The criteria consist of 19 indices observed on a quarter car model operating on longitudinal road profiles. They yield accurate predictions of profile impacts. For the operating conditions considered, the long wavelengths have a strong effect on health, medium wavelengths on safety and short to medium wavelengths on energy consumption.