The Prediction of Pavement Ride Quality from Profile Measurements of Pavement Roughness

This paper summarizes the results obtained in five different states when profiles were used to develop transforms that predict rideability from pavement roughness. The five individual state transforms are very similar and have similar accuracy and validity. As a result, one transform—derived from the combined data from all five states—can be used to accurately predict rideability from profile measures of roughness in any of the five states. The resulting transform is applicable to bituminous, Portland cement, and composite surfaces and the three types combined, and to both interstate and other classes of road. Use of this transform provides an efficient and accurate method for determining the rideability of pavement surfaces from physical measures of pavement roughness. This transform provides a basis for a system of measuring and reporting totally comparable roughness and rideability data that can also be used to assist highway agencies to determine when existing pavements should be repaired and to evaluate newly constructed pavements.