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In recent years we have seen drastic improvements of the accuracy of wheel force transducer (WFT) systems /1, 2 and 3/. These systems in most cases are calibrated just statically. What is the dynamic behaviour of the sensor? What can we expect towards the accuracy of the measured loads on real road surfaces as they are influenced by a number of parameters? In the present paper quantitative results are reported out of a broad investigation of the effects of the following parameters road surface, rim stiffness, tire air pressure, velocity and wet road conditions. The unique Wheel and Tire Testing Vehicle (“Universal Skid Resistance Measurement Device”) of Stuttgart University was used for the measurements on two highways. The WFT-signals are referenced to the multiaxial force sensing of this vehicle. These findings are compared to results derived from a rolling road flatbelt test stand reported in /6/.

If a company wants to start to develop vehicles, to build new models or to grow into new markets, the question is always the same: How to choose, to measure, to evaluate road profiles to generate load profiles which have to be endured by the vehicle in question? This paper describes steps of the process from a practical point of view and gives guidelines and examples how to solve this important problem. Special attention is given to instrumentation. It is clearly stated that this question cannot be solved over night. Each company has to build up own standards as company philosophy and strategy contributes much to this question.