Search Results

With the use of digital audio tape recorders and piezo accelerometers, a practical field-ready method of determining occupant loading has been developed for heavy truck and equipment ride evaluation. The primary objective in determining ride quality is to verify the accelerations transferred to the occupant through the seat. These accelerations can then be compared to occupant threshold limits to assist the engineer in determining ride quality. The acquisition of acceleration data can be done incrementally for each component of the vehicle, from the ground up to the seat cushion. This allows for an in-depth analysis of suspension and frame components which can then be used to fine tune the design. A secondary use of this method is to evaluate the interaction of contributing components to overall ride quality. Specifically, tires, shock absorbers, air bellows, spring rates, fifth wheel position and front axle position can be evaluated with this field ready method.

Emission standards derived to protect the environment have driven engine manufacturers to accelerate their efforts in engine emission development in order to meet the mandated standards. This paper will outline the current and upcoming emission standards, the technology involved in accomplishing the requirements and the solutions to in-service engines meeting their emission standards. The paper targets the fleet operator to provide a single source of information in an effort to alert them to upcoming requirements and what can be expected when specifying equipment for procurement. The technology discussed in this paper varies in its application for several engine makes and models. Since technology transfers from application to application it is vital that these ideas and concepts be explained.

This paper will discuss the conceptual integration of satellite tracking used for engine diagnostics for remote power generation sets. The significant application of this integration of technology is the capability to diagnose, monitor, make on-line adjustments and maintain complete control of the generation sets miles from their remote locations. The intended purpose for this technology is to assist the operator in the duty of performing diagnostics and monitoring when not physically located near the power unit. Applications for diagnostics through satellite tracking are widespread. However, certain land-based power generation applications are more likely than others to lend themselves to this method of monitoring. Oil field pumping units, continuous and standby remote generations sets and large scale traffic control/hazard lights used in highway construction zones can all benefit from this technology.

The ability to globally track vehicle position via satellite is a reality. So is the ability to diagnose heavy-duty diesel powertrains and their peripheral support components. However, the integration of these two accepted methods for vehicular operation and maintenance have yet to be merged together; specifically the use of computerized vehicle diagnostics and failure analysis through artificial intelligence as a performance analyzer. As a result of these two emerging technologies, vehicle powertrain diagnostics may soon be conducted through satellite communications between the disabled vehicle and the office of origin for the disabled vehicle. At the time of this publication a system of this nature has not been developed. This paper will discuss the nature of such a concept as well as a description of each of the major software components, their history, operation and how they may be integrated.

The need for expert systems in the Heavy Truck and Bus Industry is rapidly approaching a critical point in time. This time reference is the revised emission standards and requirements for heavy duty diesels. This need is related to the influx of electronically controlled engines and their companion the electronically controlled transmission as well as the present shortage of skilled mechanics. This paper discusses the conceptual approach and reasons that expert systems are well suited as a diagnostic aid for vehicular repair. This paper also discusses the implementation of a commercially available expert system for the diagnosis of class 7 and 8 vehicles. The body of this paper will be divided into four discussions. First, applicability of AI/KB programs used for vehicle diagnostics. Second, the use of expert systems to diagnose electronically controlled power modules and their related interactivities with the vehicle.