Vibration isolation evaluation of t ransit bus operator seats based on lower torso acceleration

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Vibration isolation evaluation of t ransit bus operator seats based on lower torso acceleration

Oesterling, B. / You, H. / Lowe, B.D. / Gilmore, B.J. / Freivalds, A.

A vehicle operator exposed to acceleration levels such as those found in transit buses can suffer from lower back injury. The injury is the result of the cyclic extension and compression of the lower spine which can cause vertebrae to fracture. Suspended seats are intended to isolate the operator from such vibrations. This paper experimentally analysed seven bus operator seats in order to discern favourable and/or problematic design features. The seats were investigated to determine which of them attenuated the most vibration to the lower back, or lower mass of the ride quality simulator used in the experimental trials. The seats were examined both statically and dynamically, by placing the ride simulator on each seat and driving a 16 passenger bus over the economy track at the PTI facility. The measures used included: r.m.s., r.m.q., v.d.v., SEAT, PSD, and transmissibility. From the results, it was found that a 6 link suspension design (Seat 1 and Seat 3) performed better than the other suspensions, probably due to an all pin joint suspension, resulting in less friction and wear normally associated with slider joints. Also, a stiffer cushion generally resulted in better seat performance.