The report describes the development of a method of measuring road roughness by means of a sensing mechanism consisting of three accelerometers. These accelerometers are mounted on an aluminum plate which rests on the chest of a test passenger of medium build and frame and weighing between 150 and 175 pounds. While the vehicle is in travel, automatic recordings are made simultaneously of vertical, transverse and longitudinal accelerations of the torso of the test passenger. These recordings are summated or integrated with respect to time. The magnitude of the roughness index resulting from this method depends not only on the road profile, but also on the dynamic characteristics of the vehicle and the speed at which the traverse is made. Extraneous variables, such as vehicle springs, shock absorbers and seat, tires, vehicle load and speed, must be controlled in making comparisons between different pavement surfaces. The report provides information on how closely these variables must be controlled. The accelerometer method of measuring road roughness facilitates evaluation of road roughness in terms which are closely associated with riding comfort. The test excursion may be made at a speed that is compatible with the normal flow of traffic and, therefore, can be carried out with maximum safety to testing personnel. The test results are available immediately and are closely repeatable. (Author)
Accelerometer Method of Riding Quality Testing
1965
48 pages
Report
No indication
English
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