Investigating Vibration Transmission in Cargo Containers During Heavy-Duty Off-Road Transport

Abstract

This article focuses on the investigation and analysis of vibrations transmitted to cargo during off-road transportation, with particular emphasis on the impact of vehicle and road surface interactions. The primary objective of the research is to quantify and characterize the amplitudes of vibrations generated by the interaction between heavy-duty truck tires and rough terrain, and their subsequent transmission to cargo containers. To achieve this, a virtual model of a tactical transportation truck was created using TruckSim software. Two characteristic off-road tracks were simulated, based on driving conditions typically experienced by heavy-duty vehicles in demanding logistical scenarios. The experimental validation of the virtual model was conducted using a heavy-duty truck outfitted with a 20 ft (6096 mm) cargo container. The results of the work include recorded acceleration data, suspension behavior, and the maximum driving speed at which the vehicle remained stable on both tracks. Moreover, the work is a direct response to the needs of the automotive industry and the military.

Keywords

• simulation
• modelling
• heavy-duty transport
• suspension
• vibrations
• signal processing
• accelerometers