The goal of the IPQ Pooled-Fund Study (IPQ Study) is to assemble states and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to (1) identify data integrity and quality issues with inertial profilers; (2) suggest approaches to addressing identified problems; (3) initiate and monitor projects intended to address identified problems; (4) disseminate results; and (5) assist in solution deployment.

To deliver sample procurement specification, maintenance guidelines, and profile analysis software program. Establish criteria for verification centers and assist with the development of these locations. Develop and deploy a traceable verification center. Provide technical review of software.

The IPQ Pooled-Fund Study is intended to serve as a forum for the participants to identify and address operational issues that are common among various inertial profilers. The Study will focus on quality of data issues that arise from the use and operation of inertial profilers. Within these broad topic areas, the following are offered as examples issues that might be addressed within the intended scope: • Implementation of American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Provision Protocols for Inertial Profilers. • Inertial profiler certification procedures. • Establishing a reference profile. • Certification course(s). • Operator procedures and training i.e. NHI Course 131100 “Pavement Smoothness: Factors Affecting Inertial Profiler Measurements Used For Construction Quality Control”. • Components: i.e. Accelerometers. • Software i.e. FHWA ProVAL – “Profile Viewer and Analyzer Software”. • System performance monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. • Contracting and procurement practices and issues. • The use of inertial profilers for construction quality control and quality assurance as per Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations Section 637.205. • Bridging Filters.

The Pooled Fund Study Group met on May 6th and 7th to adopt a Study Charter, to review current research, and to establish study topic and priorities. The following list documents the voted on priorities: 1. Reference Profile Device 2. Critical Profile Accuracy Requirements 3. Construction Acceptance and Correction Software 4. Certification / Validation Sites 5. Evaluating Upper Limits of Single Accelerometer and Single Height Sensor 6. Emerging Technology That Enhances Profile Measurement 7. Portable Validation Device Feasibility 8. Lightweight Profilers Unique Problems 9. Portable Validation Device Implementation It is anticipated that solicitations will be posted for the first three priorities by September 2003. Our next meeting will be held on October 29 and 30 in Austin, TX as a follow on to the annual RPUG meeting.