An application, typically online, estimates the damage heavy vehicles inflict on pavement structures. This estimate, expressed as Equivalent Single Axle Loads, represents the cumulative impact of different axle weights and configurations, simplifying pavement design and maintenance planning. For example, a heavily loaded truck with multiple axles might exert the same wear and tear as several passes of a standard single-axle vehicle with a defined weight. This tool converts the complex traffic data into a single, manageable metric.
This analytical approach allows engineers and transportation officials to predict pavement deterioration more accurately, optimize maintenance schedules, and allocate resources efficiently. By understanding the cumulative strain imposed by traffic, agencies can make informed decisions about pavement design, material selection, and rehabilitation strategies. Historically, assessing pavement damage was a complex and often imprecise process. The development of this computational method provided a standardized way to quantify traffic’s impact, leading to more sustainable and cost-effective pavement management practices.
