An optimization of sinusoidal rumble strip design parameters

Previous research has shown that rumble strips using a sinusoidal profile can reduce pass-by noise while creating equal or greater interior noise and vibration compared to more conventional discrete strips. Several different sinusoidal designs have been proposed and evaluated in previous research, however, a single design has yet to be confirmed. In the current research, 20 different sinusoidal designs were installed on a two-lane highway each with different parameters of wavelength, peak-to-peak amplitude, and recess below the existing pavement. The test matrix included wavelengths varying from 30.5 to 60.9 centimeters, peak-to-peak amplitudes from 7.9 to 12.7 millimeters, and recesses of 0 and 3.8 millimeters. Previous research has also shown that the performance of individual designs depends on the individual vehicles used in the testing. In this research, four vehicles of from each of four different design types were used and averaged together to judge the performance of the 20 rumble strip designs for pass-by noise, and interior noise and vibration. From this research, the recommended design is one with a 38.1 centimeters wavelength +/- 12.7 millimeters, no recess, and a peak-to-peak amplitude of 11.1 to 12.7 millimeters. The results used to justify this recommendation are presented in this paper.