Optimization of International Roughness Index Model Parameters for Sustainable Runway

Pavement roughness is a critical airport pavement characteristic that has been linked to impacts such as safety and service life. A properly defined roughness evaluation method would reduce airport operational risk, prolong the life of aircraft landing gear, and optimize the decision-making process for pavement preservation, which together positively contribute to overall airport sustainability. In this study, we optimized the parameters of the International Roughness Index (IRI) model to resolve the current poor correlation between the IRI and aircraft vibration responses in order to adapt and extend the IRI’s use for airport runway roughness evaluation. We developed and validated a virtual prototype model based on ADAMS/Aircraft software for the Boeing 737–800 and then employed the model to predict the aircraft’s dynamic responses to runway pavement roughness. By developing a frequency response function for the standard 1/4 vehicle model, we obtained frequency response distribution curves for the IRI. Based on runway roughness data, we used fast Fourier transform to implement the frequency response distribution of the aircraft. We then utilized Particle Swarm Optimization to determine more appropriate IRI model parameters rather than modifying the model itself. Our case study results indicate that the correlation coefficient for the optimized IRI model and aircraft vibration response shows a qualitative leap from that of the original IRI model.