Development and Simulation Software for Modelling Pavement Response at Mn/ROAD

Abstract

This report presents the development of simulation software for modelling dynamically loaded pavement response. The analysis is carried out by employing the finite element method and by integrating the resulting discrete equations of motion through the central difference method. The lower pavement layers (base, subbase and subgrade) are assumed to be elasto-plastic and are described by using the flow theory of plasticity. The mapped infinite elements are used instead of viscous boundaries to mitigate the wave reflection from the boundaries of the model. The predicted pavement responses are compared with the experimental results obtained by a Falling-Weight Deflectometer (FWD). Dowel bar load transfer mechanism is also analyzed.