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The advancement of computer systems and simulation modeling tools have enabled control systems designers to reduce the development time and bring active safety system products to market faster. Modern tractor-trailers are becoming increasingly equipped with such active safety systems. More often than not, these tractor-trailers are designed to pull either a single trailer or multiple trailers in operation. One of such multiple trailer combinations are the B-Doubles combination, in which the fifth wheel coupling is located at the rear of the lead, trailer, which is mounted on the rear section located immediately above the lead trailer axles. Although this combination is less susceptible to lateral instability compared with an A-Train combination, it can still have exposure to roll instability. Hence, the application of a trailer roll stability system on the combination vehicle may prove beneficial to the roll stability.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) realizes that medium and heavy vehicles have different issues than passenger vehicles with respect to tire pressure monitoring. The NHTSA did not have time during the one year deadline imposed by the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) Act to address these complex concerns in its rulemaking.1 This paper explores the unique concerns that accompany commercial vehicle tire pressure monitoring and management that must be considered before a potential regulation for the commercial vehicle industry can be implemented successfully.

After ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and TCS (Traction Control System), the introduction of ESP (Electronic Stability Program) for passenger cars in 1995 was another milestone in the continuous enhancement of safety in road traffic. ESP for passenger cars stabilizes a skidding vehicle and thus makes it more controllable for the driver. Due to their additional degree of freedom (articulated vehicle) and high center of gravity, heavy trucks and trailers often have the problem of jack-knifing and roll-over. Therefore Knorr-Bremse SfN GmbH is developing tailor made safety systems for trucks as well as for trailers not only to cover skidding, but also to prevent jack-knifing and roll-over. These new systems are on the truck side the ESP System for trucks and on the trailer side the trailer ECBS with integrated ROP (roll-over prevention) function.