Ride Comfort Analysis of Unsuspended Cabin Tractor Semi-Trailer.

This research work uses parameter variation techniques for calculating the set of vehicle parameters that result in the best ride comfort for the driver. Tractor semi-trailer vertical dynamic ride model is developed using 9 degrees-offreedom. The simulation of the model is conducted using MATLAB. The input to the system is a velocity amplitude function of the vertical road irregularities. Other inputs include the load conditions, vehicle speed and road conditions. The RMS vertical weighted acceleration at the driver's seat and at the centre of gravity of tractor and semi-trailer for different parameters of the vehicle are assessed for ride comfort analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]