Analytical Study of Probable Peak Vehicle Load on Rigid Pavement

Abstract

Because of the lack of formulas for evaluating the peak value of dynamic vehicle load on rigid pavement, the need to derive a simple closed-form solution to predict the peak load for pavement design is apparent. Presented herein is a theoretical solution for evaluating the probable peak vehicle load on rigid pavement due to the passage of a vehicle moving at constant speed along a rough road surface. The analytical approach is based on the application of a road displacement spectrum imposed at the lower end of a vehicle system to model the road surface roughness. The engine-induced force is also considered in analysis. Based on the proposed solutions, relations of design vehicle load and traffic volume for discrete risks are constructed for applications of pavement design.