Calibration of Pavement Design Models Using Field Data

Abstract

This paper provides a framework for the development of Weibull reliability factors (since they describe “length of life” or endurance over time) for joint faulting models using field data from the Strategic Highway Research Program's Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) database. There is a need to address pavement design in a manner that will incorporate such factors as climatic conditions, soil conditions, and load transfer conditions on a comparative basis. In order to maximize the utility of the calibration process it is important for the pavement designer to understand the underlying mechanism(s) relative to a particular distress manifestation. It is in this light that field joint faulting data were analyzed and calibration factors developed on the basis of distress mechanism(s).