Study on the effect of semi-active control method matching for truck cab and seat suspension on driver comfort

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel solution for addressing the challenges of whole-body vibrations in the heavy truck industry. Despite the substantial growth in this industry, excessive fatigue, back pain, neck pain, and other illnesses caused by rough and bumpy roads remain a major concern for truck drivers. To mitigate these issues, this study develops a comprehensive vibration reduction system based on a near-zero stiffness seat suspension system and a semi-active ON-OFF damping control system for the cab and seat. The study also evaluates the sensitivity of seat and cab suspension to vibration comfort by developing a nonlinear vibration system mathematical model. Simulation analysis results demonstrate that the proposed system can significantly reduce whole-body vibration experienced by the driver, potentially enhancing driver comfort and reducing the risk of illness and injury. However, further experimental validation and optimization are needed to fully evaluate the system's effectiveness and feasibility in practice.