A RIGID PAVEMENT STRUCTURAL EVALUATION SYSTEM BASED ON DYNAMIC DEFLECTIONS

Abstract

This paper describes the computer program RPEDDl for the mechanistic evaluation of dynamic deflection data, measured on rigid pavements by dynamic load NDT devices such as a Falling Weight Deflectometer and a Dynaflect. The analysis models used in RPEDDl include a self-iterative procedure to determine insitu moduli of pavement layers using a layered elastic theory, a self-iterative procedure for determining non-linear strain dependent moduli of granular layers and subgrade, and a procedure for predicting fatigue life and existing structural capacity. A methodology has been developed to ensure uniqueness of the estimated insitu moduli. Deflection basins measured by a Falling Weight Deflectometer and a Dynaflect can be analyzed by RPEDDl in a few iterations to determine unique values of pavement moduli. Guidelines presented for application of the proposed structural evaluation system provide a rational approach to rehabilitation design.