Development of a new laboratory accelerated machine-multivariable accelerated abrasion machine

Abstract

Road surface texture affects both vehicle performance and road characteristics. It affects tire/pavement noise, skid resistance, splash and spray, rolling resistance, tire wear, discomfort and wear in vehicles. Corresponding performances may change with the evolution of the road surface texture. It is important to understand the changes of the road surface. Two methods are always used to investigate the deterioration of road surface texture, laboratory accelerated/polishing machine and road surface texture measurement on road sections at certain intervals. Laboratory accelerated/polishing machine is favourable due to smaller specimens, more convenient measurement and easier environmental control. Many researchers attempt to develop laboratory accelerated machines to mimic the interaction between tire and road. Previous accelerated/polishing machines can be divided into two main types. One is to utilize tire in circular movement to shape the abraded section. The other is to use rubber pad or rollers to simulate interaction between tire and road to shape the polished section. However, little has been considered about slip rates in previous accelerated/polishing machines. In this research, a new laboratory accelerated machine, multivariable accelerated abrasion machine (MAAM), was developed. It can simulate effects of the one-way driving on the road surface texture. It can also accomplish different slip rates to simulate tire/pavement interaction more exactly.