Sensitivity analysis of a deflection-induced pavement-vehicle interaction model

Different models have been developed to quantify the energy dissipation in pavements due to pavement-vehicle interaction (PVI). The present study focuses on a mechanistic model for estimating deflection-induced excess fuel consumption (EFC). Due to the non-linearity of the models, the calculated dissipation is dependent on the resolution and accuracy of input data. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis was thus conducted to evaluate the sensitivity of the model's EFC calculations to the use of average hypothetical data versus real traffic recorded inputs. In addition, the pavement deterioration and reduction of mechanical performance during the service life were considered as potential factors to affect predictions on deflection-induced EFC. Results showed that depending on the resolution of some parameters (i.e. temperature and traffic congestion), the estimated EFC due to PVI was greatly affected. Network-level analyses should thus be calibrated, clearly identifying the resolution of input parameters into the models.