Biodynamic responses of seated pregnant subjects exposed to vertical vibrations in driving conditions

A pregnant woman's body is a very sophisticated dynamic system that is sensitive to whole-body vibrations in a sitting posture. While much effort has been devoted to vibration effects on non-pregnant seated persons, little research has been devoted to the biodynamic responses of seated pregnant women exposed to vertical vibrations, especially in driving conditions. In this study a thorough survey of lumped-parameter models for non-pregnant seated persons is implemented. According to the literature the mathematical models adequate for representing the increase in mass due to pregnancy are proposed and evaluated systematically. On the basis of an analytical study and experimental validation, the six-degree-of-freedom model modified from the non-linear model proposed by Muksian and Nash is recommended. In addition, the recommended pregnant model is further integrated with two-dimensional half-car and three-dimensional full-car models to assess the responses of pregnant drivers or passengers exposed to vertical vibrations due to road unevenness. It is believed that the study presented in this report provides a profound understanding of biodynamic responses of seated pregnant women and that it may offer vehicle engineers a good reference in the design of vehicle suspension systems.     

Ride quality evaluation of a vehicle with a planar suspension system

The longitudinal connection between a chassis and a wheel in a conventional vehicle suspension system is commonly very stiff than the vertical connection. Such a mechanism can efficiently isolate vibrations and absorb shocks in the vertical direction but cannot sufficiently attenuate the impact in the longitudinal direction. In order to overcome such a limitation, a planar suspension system (PSS) with spring–damper struts in both the longitudinal and vertical directions is proposed so that the vibration along any direction in the wheel rotation plane can be isolated. In this paper, the dynamic responses of a vehicle with PSS due to a single bump and random road unevenness are investigated. The ride quality of the vehicle with PSS is evaluated in accordance with ISO 2631. A comparison with that of a similar conventional vehicle is conducted to demonstrate the promising potentials of the PSS in improving the vehicle ride quality.     

汽车碰撞试验台动力学模型建立与分析

汽车碰撞试验已经成为我国强制性法规试验检测项目,而汽车碰撞试验台的动力特性是进行试验台能力设计、弹射过程控制、速度控制等的基础。本文分析了基于橡皮绳储能介质的汽车碰撞弹射试验台,建立充分考虑橡皮绳质量、摩擦系数、车辆质量、旋转质量因素和空气阻力等影响因子的试验台动力学模型,并经试验得到很好的验证,并提出基于过程动力特性方程的控制算法,所得结论可为同类试验台架系统设计和提高过程控制提供理论参考。     

Kineto-dynamic design optimisation for vehicle-specific seat-suspension systems

Designs and analyses of seat-suspension systems are invariably performed considering effective vertical spring rate and damping properties, while neglecting important contributions due to kinematics of the widely used cross-linkage mechanism. In this study, a kineto-dynamic model of a seat-suspension is formulated to obtain relations for effective vertical suspension stiffness and damping characteristics as functions of those of the air spring and the hydraulic damper, respectively. The proposed relations are verified through simulations of the multi-body dynamic model of the cross-linkage seat-suspension in the ADAMS platform. The validity of the kineto-dynamic model is also demonstrated through comparisons of its vibration transmission response with the experimental data. The model is used to identify optimal air spring coordinates to attain nearly constant natural frequency of the suspension, irrespective of the seated body mass and seated height. A methodology is further proposed to identify optimal damping requirements for vehicle-specific suspension designs to achieve minimal seat effective amplitude transmissibility (SEAT) and vibration dose value (VDV) considering vibration spectra of different classes of earthmoving vehicles. The shock and vibration isolation performance potentials of the optimal designs are evaluated under selected vehicle vibration superimposed with shock motions. Results show that the vehicle-specific optimal designs could provide substantial reductions in the SEAT and VDV values for the vehicle classes considered.     

A dummy for the objective ride comfort evaluation of ground vehicles

A new device for an objective evaluation of ground vehicle ride comfort is presented. In this study, the ride comfort (frequency range 0–30 Hz) has been referred to the acceleration acting along the vertical axis (subject spine) and to the longitudinal acceleration (acting at the subject shoulders). Based on the experimental measurements of such accelerations on different human subjects seated on a car seat, a proper mechanical/mathematical model of the seat+subject has been derived. The derivation of the model has been performed by minimising the error between the measured and the computed accelerations. A prototype of the derived mechanical model has been actually built. Particular attention has been devoted to the construction of the springs, of the moving members and of the magnetic damper. All of the device parameters (mass, stiffness, damping) can be easily tuned. Finally, an experimental validation of the device has been performed. The device, while seated with the same posture of the corresponding human subject is able to reproduce (with reasonable accuracy) both the acceleration along the subject spine and the acceleration at the subject shoulders.     

Black-box modelling of nonlinear railway vehicle dynamics for track geometry assessment using neural networks

ABSTRACT

The use of vehicle dynamics simulation for the track geometry assessment gives rise to new demands. In order to analyse the responses of the vehicles to the measured track geometry defects, the integration of the simulation process in the measurement chain of the track geometry recording car is envisaged. Fast and reliable simulation results are required. This work studies the use of black-box modelling approaches as an alternative to multi-body simulation. The performances of different linear and nonlinear black-box models for the simulation of the vertical and lateral bogie accelerations are compared. While linear transfer function models give good results for the simulation of the vertical responses, their use is not suitable for the highly nonlinear lateral vehicle dynamics. The lateral accelerations are best represented by recurrent neural networks. For the training and validation on high-speed lines using measured vehicle responses, the performance of the black-box simulation outperforms the multi-body simulation. Due to the larger variability of track design and track quality conditions on conventional lines, the model performance degrades and depends significantly on the analysed vehicle type and the track characteristics.     

A novel global sensitivity analysis on the observation accuracy of the coupled vehicle model

ABSTRACT

This paper proposes a novel 2-step global sensitivity analysis algorithm to provide an in-depth sensitivity analysis of the vehicle parameters on the system responses. A 9 degree-of-freedom nonlinear vertical–lateral coupled vehicle model is developed, and 12 parameters along with 7 system responses are selected for the sensitivity analysis. In order to reduce the computational effort, the proposed 2-step algorithm calculates the elementary effects and selects 7 influential parameters from these 12, and then uses the Sobol' method to obtain the global sensitivity indexes of these influential parameters. An unscented Kalman filter is finally designed to show the effect and importance of the selected sensitive parameters on the observation accuracy. Simulations with different vehicle types, velocities and tyre models have verified that the proposed algorithm can accurately describe the relationship between the vehicle parameters and system responses, which is of directive significance to improve vehicle controller and observer performances.     

Fundamentals of vehicle–track coupled dynamics

This paper presents a framework to investigate the dynamics of overall vehicle–track systems with emphasis on theoretical modelling, numerical simulation and experimental validation. A three-dimensional vehicle–track coupled dynamics model is developed in which a typical railway passenger vehicle is modelled as a 35-degree-of-freedom multi-body system. A traditional ballasted track is modelled as two parallel continuous beams supported by a discrete-elastic foundation of three layers with sleepers and ballasts included. The non-ballasted slab track is modelled as two parallel continuous beams supported by a series of elastic rectangle plates on a viscoelastic foundation. The vehicle subsystem and the track subsystem are coupled through a wheel–rail spatial coupling model that considers rail vibrations in vertical, lateral and torsional directions. Random track irregularities expressed by track spectra are considered as system excitations by means of a time–frequency transformation technique. A fast explicit integration method is applied to solve the large nonlinear equations of motion of the system in the time domain. A computer program named TTISIM is developed to predict the vertical and lateral dynamic responses of the vehicle–track coupled system. The theoretical model is validated by full-scale field experiments, including the speed-up test on the Beijing–Qinhuangdao line and the high-speed running test on the Qinhuangdao–Shenyang line. Differences in the dynamic responses analysed by the vehicle–track coupled dynamics and by the classical vehicle dynamics are ascertained in the case of vehicles passing through curved tracks.     

Effect of temperature- and frequency-dependent dynamic properties of rail pads on high-speed vehicle–track coupled vibrations

The soft under baseplate pad of WJ-8 rail fastener frequently used in China’s high-speed railways was taken as the study subject, and a laboratory test was performed to measure its temperature and frequency-dependent dynamic performance at 0.3?Hz and at ?60°C to 20°C with intervals of 2.5°C. Its higher frequency-dependent results at different temperatures were then further predicted based on the time–temperature superposition (TTS) and Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) formula. The fractional derivative Kelvin–Voigt (FDKV) model was used to represent the temperature- and frequency-dependent dynamic properties of the tested rail pad. By means of the FDKV model for rail pads and vehicle–track coupled dynamic theory, high-speed vehicle–track coupled vibrations due to temperature- and frequency-dependent dynamic properties of rail pads was investigated. Finally, further combining with the measured frequency-dependent dynamic performance of vehicle’s rubber primary suspension, the high-speed vehicle–track coupled vibration responses were discussed. It is found that the storage stiffness and loss factor of the tested rail pad are sensitive to low temperatures or high frequencies. The proposed FDKV model for the frequency-dependent storage stiffness and loss factors of the tested rail pad can basically meet the fitting precision, especially at ordinary temperatures. The numerical simulation results indicate that the vertical vibration levels of high-speed vehicle–track coupled systems calculated with the FDKV model for rail pads in time domain are higher than those calculated with the ordinary Kelvin–Voigt (KV) model for rail pads. Additionally, the temperature- and frequency-dependent dynamic properties of the tested rail pads would alter the vertical vibration acceleration levels (VALs) of the car body and bogie in 1/3 octave frequencies above 31.5?Hz, especially enlarge the vertical VALs of the wheel set and rail in 1/3 octave frequencies of 31.5–100?Hz and above 315?Hz, which are the dominant frequencies of ground vibration acceleration and rolling noise (or bridge noise) caused by high-speed railways respectively. Since the fractional derivative value of the adopted rubber primary suspension, unlike the tested rail pad, is very close to 1, its frequency-dependent dynamic performance has little effect on high-speed vehicle–track coupled vibration responses.     

The Calculation of the Vibrations of a Four-wheeled Vehicle, Induced by Random Road Roughness of the Left and Right Track

When applying the known power spectra of the random road roughness to the suspension behaviour of a four-wheeled vehicle, each of the four vertical input signals together with their related interdependence are to be considered, if exact results are to be obtained. The correlations are determined by way of calculation. The resulting roughness spectra of bounce, pitch, roll and torsional excitations will be applied to various vehicles, characterized by different design parameters. By means of a three-dimensional simulation model the virtual values of the random vehicle vibrations are calculated, while determining at the same time the influence of vehicle speed, waviness exponent, track width, wheel base, and axle design feature as well as the relationship between the vertical vibrations and the reference point in the vehicle body.     

A study on the role of powertrain system dynamics on vehicle driveability

Vehicle driveability describes the complex interactions between the driver and the vehicle, mainly related to longitudinal vibrations. Today, a relevant part of the driveability process optimisation is realised by means of track tests, which require a considerable effort due to the number of parameters (such as stiffness and damping components) affecting this behaviour. The drawback of this approach is that it is carried on at a stage when a design iteration becomes very expensive in terms of time and cost. The objective of this work is to propose a light and accurate tool to represent the relevant quantities involved in the driveability analysis, and to understand which are the main vehicle parameters that influence the torsional vibrations transmitted to the driver. Particular attention is devoted to the role of the tyre, the engine mount, the dual mass flywheel and their possible interactions. The presented nonlinear dynamic model has been validated in time and frequency domain and, through linearisation of its nonlinear components, allows to exploit modal and energy analysis. Objective indexes regarding the driving comfort are additionally considered in order to evaluate possible driveability improvements related to the sensitivity of powertrain parameters.     

两自由度系统的自由振动实验

汽车行驶过程中会因为地面不平引起的冲击载荷、发动机工作的振动等原因而产生振动,当汽车振动的频率与车身固有频率相接近时,车身会产生很大的垂向加速度,不仅会使驾乘人员感到不适,还会造成车身结构的损坏。因此,对于汽车振动模型的研究就显得尤其重要。以搭建的两自由度系统的试验模型为研究对象,求得其在不同初始条件下实验的自由振动响应,来验证理论求解模型的正确性,为汽车平顺性的改善提供理论依据。     

路面特性对车辆振动影响规律研究

对软路面上车辆的扭转、垂直和纵向振动进行了研究,首先对振动车辆进行单因素(路面不平度、胎压、路面抗压强度和牵引负荷)分析,找出对车辆振动影响显著的因素及影响规律,在此基础上对影响振动的多因素进行正交试验,分析交互作用对车辆振动的影响规律。同时,对不同路面条件下振动进行研究分析。随着路面波形频率、路面抗压能力、轮胎气压和牵引负荷的增加,车辆扭转、垂直和纵向振动增加。对于垂直振动、扭振和纵向振动,其主要影响因素各不相同。     

Three-Dimensional Analysis of Train-Rail-Bridge Interaction Problems

A vehicle-rail-bridge interaction (VRBI) model for analysing the 3D dynamic interaction between the moving trains and railway bridge was developed. By the dynamic condensation scheme, three types of vehicle-rail interaction (VRI) elements were derived, by which the vehicle and bridge responses, as well as the wheel / rail contact forces, can be computed. Track irregularity of random nature was taken into account. The results indicate that resonance can occur in both the lateral and torsional vibrations of the bridge, as well as in the vertical vibration. Under the crossing of two face-to-face moving trains, the vertical vibration of the bridge is greatly intensified, while the lateral and torsional responses may be increased or reduced, depending on how the two trains cross each other. Finally, two common indices are used to assess the possibility of derailment for trains passing over the bridge at different speeds.     

Influence of tyre–road contact model on vehicle vibration response

The influence of the tyre–road contact model on the simulated vertical vibration response was analysed. Three contact models were compared: tyre–road point contact model, moving averaged profile and tyre-enveloping model. In total, 1600 real asphalt concrete and Portland cement concrete longitudinal road profiles were processed. The linear planar model of automobile with 12 degrees of freedom (DOF) was used. Five vibration responses as the measures of ride comfort, ride safety and dynamic load of cargo were investigated. The results were calculated as a function of vibration response, vehicle velocity, road quality and road surface type. The marked differences in the dynamic tyre forces and the negligible differences in the ride comfort quantities were observed among the tyre–road contact models. The seat acceleration response for three contact models and 331 DOF multibody model of the truck semi-trailer was compared with the measured response for a known profile of test section.     

Minimizing the Path Radius of Curvature for Collision Avoidance

Purpose of this article was to especially emphasize the contribution of tires nonuniformity radial and lateral force variation to vehicles vibrations, within developed nonlinear dynamic model of a vehicle. The tire nonuniformity force variations are introduced in simulations processes by radial and lateral dynamic forces in the area of wheels-road contact. The limits of admissible Peak - to - Peak radial and lateral force variation and Peak - to - Peak first harmonic radial and lateral force variation nonuniformity were defined by using a vehicle vibratory model. The tire nonuniformity parameters were defined from the aspect of vertical seat cushion and the steering wheel rim vibrations using the developed optimization program and the Pentium 90 MHz computer.     

The Definition of the Tires Limit of Admissible Nonuniformity by Using the Vehicle Vibratory Model

Purpose of this article was to especially emphasize the contribution of tires nonuniformity radial and lateral force variation to vehicles vibrations, within developed nonlinear dynamic model of a vehicle. The tire nonuniformity force variations are introduced in simulations processes by radial and lateral dynamic forces in the area of wheels-road contact. The limits of admissible Peak - to - Peak radial and lateral force variation and Peak - to - Peak first harmonic radial and lateral force variation nonuniformity were defined by using a vehicle vibratory model. The tire nonuniformity parameters were defined from the aspect of vertical seat cushion and the steering wheel rim vibrations using the developed optimization program and the Pentium 90 MHz computer.     

Dynamic responses of a high-speed railway car due to wheel polygonalisation

The polygonal wear around the wheel circumference could pose highly adverse influences on the wheel/rail interactions and thereby the performance of the vehicle system. In this study, the effects of wheel polygonalisation on the dynamic responses of a high-speed rail vehicle are investigated through development and simulations of a comprehensive coupled vehicle/track dynamic model. The model integrates flexible slab track, wheelsets and axle boxes subsystem models so as to account for elastic deformations caused by impact loads induced by the wheel polygonalisation. A field-test programme was undertaken to acquire the polygonal wear profile and axle box acceleration response of a high-speed train, and the data are used to demonstrate the validity of the coupled vehicle/track system model. Subsequently, the effects of wheel polygonalisation are evaluated in terms of wheel/rail impact forces, axle box vertical acceleration and dynamic stress developed in the axle considering different amplitudes and harmonic orders of the polygonal wear. The results suggest that the high-order wheel polygonalisation can give rise to high-frequency impact loads at the wheel/rail interface, and excite some of the vibration modes of the wheelset and the axle box leading to high-magnitude axle box acceleration and dynamic stress in the wheelset axle.     

Understanding the limitations of different vehicle models for roll dynamics studies

An accurate and realistic vehicle model is essential for the development of effective vehicle control systems. Many different vehicle models have been developed for use in various vehicle control systems. The complexity of these models and the assumptions made in their development depend on their application. This article looks into the development and validity of vehicle models for prediction of roll behavior and their suitability for application in roll control systems. A 14 DOF vehicle model that includes dynamics of roll center and nonlinear effects due to vehicle geometry changes is developed. The limitations, validity of simplified equations, and various modeling assumptions are discussed by analyzing their effect on the model roll responses in various vehicle maneuvers. A formulation of the popular 8 DOF vehicle model that gives good correlation with the 14 DOF model is presented. The possible limitations of the 14 DOF model compared with an actual vehicle are also discussed.     

水中悬浮隧道锚索的非线性涡激振动研究

建立了水中悬浮隧道锚索在波流场中涡激振动的非线性数学模型,考虑了锚索的几何非线性对其涡激振动的影响,并应用有限差分法求解了锚索的运动控制方程。计算结果表明:锚索在顺流向和横向2个方向运动的耦合作用特别是几何非线性作用的引入,抑制了部分高阶模态的激发,使锚索横向涡激振动的振幅减小,顺流向振动的振幅增大;在悬浮隧道的振动引起的强迫激励和参数激励作用下,锚索顺流向涡激振动振幅显著增大,横向涡激振动出现"拍"的现象。