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Scientific visualizations and computer animations are frequently presented to show the results of simulation models or the opinions of a reconstructionist. In these cases it is important to properly document the graphical images being presented. Proper documentation depends somewhat on the methodologies used to produce the images, but every scientific visualization, computer animation, and computer generated image should be documented sufficiently to allow others to duplicate the images. There are also some basic data that should accompany any computer generated images that will reveal the basis of the motion for all primary objects being depicted. This paper presents some basic definitions and outlines the data that is required to document scientific visualizations and computer animations.

Using analysis of a mini-van test vehicle’s static load conditions as a guide, four different vehicle loading situation were constructed. The loading situations represent the corners of the vehicle’s center of gravity position envelope. For the testing described in this paper a single vehicle under conditions of varied load was subjected to a series of test maneuvers designed to elicit objective measure and comparison of vehicle steady-state and transient response. The purpose of this paper is to describe the test method and present the results of handling testing and limit stability testing of a 1991 Ford Aerostar mini-van/extended van under four different loading conditions. Differences observed in the plotted results of vehicle steady state response for different load condition are detectable, but small. The test results demonstrate differences in vehicle transient response for different loading configuration.

The time/distance relationship for a heavy truck starting from a stopped position is often needed to accurately assess the events leading up to a collision. A series of tests were conducted to document the low speed acceleration performance of a Freightliner FLD-120 tractor-truck. The tests including several load configurations and acceleration rates. The vehicle was instrumented with a DATRON speed sensor and the engine RPM was also documented. This paper presents data from these tests and discusses low speed acceleration profiles of heavy trucks

The time/distance relationship for heavy trucks starting from a stopped position is often needed to accurately assess the events leading up to a collision. A series of tests were conducted to document tractor/trailer low speed acceleration performance. The vehicles were instrumented with a DATRON speed sensor and engine RPM was also documented. This paper presents the data from these tests and discusses the acceleration profile of heavy trucks in general.