Analysis of the Impact of Vibrations on the Driver of a Motor Vehicle
Source abstract
Abstract
Vibration can have a significant impact on long-term health, driver comfort, and vehicle performance. With a focus on steering wheel vibrations, this study examines both general and local vibrations that affect the driver. Under real-world conditions, a series of controlled test drives were conducted, with high-precision accelerometers mounted on the driver’s seat and steering wheel recording vibration data. The measurements were conducted in accordance with ISO 5349 and ISO 2631-1, which guaranteed a consistent assessment of vibration exposure. The results suggest that the daily vibration exposure for general vibrations at the driver’s seat is significantly lower than the legal limit, as evidenced by the presence of significant frequencies in the vertical (Z) axis. Nevertheless, steering wheel vibrations may cause pain due to their proximity to the resonance frequencies of the human hand–arm system, which have frequency maxima at approximately 35 Hz and harmonic 70 Hz. Additionally, the vibration intensity was elevated at vehicle velocities between 70 and 80 km/h, suggesting the potential presence of a resonance effect within the suspension or powertrain. The results emphasize the significance of advanced vibration reduction strategies in enhancing driver comfort and safety, including the implementation of a well-designed steering system and enhanced seat absorption. This research offers valuable insights for automotive engineers and ergonomics specialists who are interested in minimizing long-term health risks and vibration-induced fatigue. The aim of this study is to indicate the areas of the drive system fault that have a direct impact on the vibrations of the body structure. The article presents an analysis of the recorded vibration results based on which of the areas of change in the comfort of using the vehicle were selected.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Technical Engine Diagnostics and Monitoring · Vehicle Dynamics and Control Systems · Mechanical Engineering and Vibrations Research
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Department of Road Transport, Faculty of Transport and Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 2A, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
Mechanical Science Institute, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Plytinės str. 25, LT-10105 Vilnius, Lithuania
Department of Mechatronics, Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Michała Oczapowskiego 2, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
Department of Fundamentals of Machine Design and Operation, Faculty of Automotive and Construction Machinery Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Pl. Politechniki 1, 00-661 Warsaw, Poland
Funding
Department of Road Transport, Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering, Silesian University of Technology
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