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"The profilograph was the tool of the trade, but since its speed ranged from 1.5 to 3 mph, it was impractical for in-process monitoring of smoothness," Klatt mentions. As a result, most paving contractors would use the profilograph to measure the final surface numbers.

The introduction of John Deere Gator-mounted lightweight profilers, like the Model 6200 Profiler nearly seven years ago, gave paving contractors a more flexible tool that could be used in a variety ways.

"Our Lightweight Profiler allows contractors to measure the pavement's smoothness at speeds ranging from 8 to 15 mph, more than five times faster than profilographs," says Dustin Reid, product manager for Ames Engineering.

This results in shorter lane closure times for profiling and allows contractors to begin to incorporate the profiler as an in-process tool for their paving operations, just like the Shelly Company. "It also helps to enhance safety, since the crew leaves the work zone quicker," mentions Klatt.

The concrete industry and concrete paving contractors were quick to adopt the technology. It gave them an in-process diagnostic tool to help enhance the pavement's smoothness.