Browse Topic: Vehicle inspections

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SAE TOMORROW TODAY: Drive-Through Vehicle Inspections Powered by AI1341510/3/2023
We all know traditional vehicle inspections are time-consuming, manual, and often subjective. But what if there was an easier and more accurate way? Enter UVeye, the industry's first vehicle inspection system based on advanced AI, computer-vision, and machine learning technologies for use in dealerships, fleets, and auction spaces. The company has developed a set of products that scan the entire vehicle and detect any type of defect or damage -- from alignment issues to minor scratches, and even bomb detection. Together with its seamless, drive-through experience, UVeye is transforming vehicle inspections by enabling service providers to shift their focus to customers, thus building trust and transparency throughout the vehicle inspection process. To learn more, we sat down with Daphna Meroz, Senior Director of Strategic Business Development, UVeye, to discuss the company's technology, the type of data it analyzes, and how automated vehicle inspections will impact insurance companies and the used car market.
Hineman, Marcie
Diagnostic and Repair Services for Advanced Driver Aid Systems and Automated Vehicles1333610/7/2022
For years OBD has been primarily used as a means of regulatory certification and vehicle repair for components and systems for emissions compliance. Agencies are investigating how to leverage these OBD systems as means to monitor the degradation over time as a result of normal wear and tear to those components and systems which are critical to the proper performance of ADAS functions or that of safe operation of ADS vehicles. The presentation given will outline from a high level ADAS and hypothesize a pathway to set a baseline industry standard, which could be incorporated by reference for any future vehicle inspection program.
Monohon, Mark
Hyundai breaks ground for Safety Test and Investigation Lab22AUTP09_089/1/2022
Hyundai Motor America is creating an industry-unique testing zone to address root cause crash investigations and electric vehicle/future product analysis activities at its Michigan R&D campus west of Detroit. “The Safety Test and Investigation Laboratory (STIL) will put a focus on speed, speed, speed in understanding what happened,” in a crash or component failure, said John Robb, president of Hyundai America Technical Center Inc. (HATCI). STIL is targeted to be operational in the fall of 2023. SAE Media interviewed Robb and other Hyundai officials at the groundbreaking for STIL, a $51.6 million facility being constructed at the automaker's southeast Michigan technical hub. Hyundai officials said 160 engineers, including those in electrical, mechanical, materials and safety, will be hired to work at the new facility. STIL will feature vehicle inspection bays, a field-crash investigation lab, a 1,640-ft (500-m) asphalt test track, a vehicle-dynamics area and a high-voltage battery lab with test pad.
Buchholz, Kami
Low-Speed Impact Bumper System Test Procedure for Passenger VehiclesJ2319_201910 (Current)10/3/2019
The scope of this SAE Recommended Practice is restricted to the testing of original equipment on passenger vehicles and to provide for a uniform industry test procedure.
Motor Vehicle Council
Lighting Inspection CodeJ599_201511 (Current)11/1/2015
This code is intended only for the inspection and maintenance of lighting equipment on motor vehicles that are in use.
Road Illumination Devices Standards Committee
Ergonomics Method Research Vehicle Mirrors Effectiveness 3D Universal Model Impact Classification2013-01-276511/27/2013
Determining vehicle mirrors effectiveness is the present novel ergonomic method in this research about how its performance affects School Bus safety. The unique impact classification system developed in advance achieves unique mathematic algorithm count for vehicle impact structure in a 3-dimensional vehicle model. The paper discusses principle experimental data-base language conversion in an Excel algorithm and with a, - factor plan observation diagram. Given the definition of accident in commercial motor vehicle applications, the study conducts a field collision follow-up record. The study based on factual data of a 50 fleet units, in observation between 2007 and 2009. This study classified the statistical spreading impact zones analysis in a 3-dimensional vehicle model calculation. Results are there discussed in paper in the ergonomic concept of hygienic operator performance responsibility. The technique of the research involves mathematical algorithms and impact analysis statistics, including the definition of vehicle damage structure indexing and driver mirror efficiency. Mathematical analysis efficiency mirror vehicle set position deviation showed loss of ergonomic hygienic performance. Given these conclusions, preventive technologies target safety-specific casualties. Recommendations include improving procedures of driver pre-trip inspection, vehicle inspection, and the utilization of certain types of view mirror equipment. Alternate techniques in human parallax ergonomics are also presented.
Vozchikov, Lev M.
Benefits and Methodology for Dimensioning a Vehicle Using a 3D Scanner for Accident Reconstruction Purposes2012-01-06174/16/2012
In the field of accident reconstruction, it is often important to measure the deformation of a vehicle (i.e. automobile, truck, motorcycle, etc.) after a crash has occurred. This data can be used for many purposes including energy calculations for speed loss, measuring roof or other structural deformation, analyzing seat or seat belt component positions, frame or unitized body structure deformation, and for estimating the actual post crash condition of a vehicle prior to the damage inflicted by the cutting and spreading tools used by emergency personnel. Traditionally, vehicle damage was measured using plumb bobs and tape measures or laser transits. However, these methods are not only time consuming but they also require a significant amount of upfront analysis to determine which points on the vehicle to measure at the inspection. In recent years, newer methods such as photogrammetry software and three dimensional scanners have come into play. Companies like FARO, Leica, Riegl, Trimble and Surphaser have developed these three dimensional laser scanners which can be used to efficiently document vehicle damage with millions of data points. The laser scanner equipment is simple to setup, collects data quickly and is accurate to a few millimeters. This paper describes the three dimensional scanning equipment and outlines a methodology of how to set it up at the vehicle inspection, how to process the voluminous data generated by the scanner, and then several case studies are presented showing how the data can be used in reconstructing crashes. The FARO Photon 80 scanner is used in examples.
Tandy, Donald F., Coleman, Clay, Colborn, Jason, Hoover, Todd, Bae, Jung
OBD Testing in Oregon - A Inspection/Maintenance Perspective10VOBD0810/30/2011
Oregon?s Vehicle Inspection Program has been conducting OBD tests on light and medium duty vehicles since 2000. Almost half a million OBD tests were conducted in Oregon last year. Oregon?s 2009 OBD test data will be analyzed and presented. Oregon will discuss its future remote OBD program and reveal how its current remote OBD pilot study and self-service OBD kiosk study are going. Presenter Gary Beyer, Department of Environmental Quality
Beyer, Gary
Vision System Provides Real-Time Guidance for Unmanned Docking OperationsTBMG-587111/1/2009
TriDAR vision system Neptec Design Group Ottawa, ON, Canada 613-599-7602 www.neptec.com
The QUALITY race continuesAUTOJUL08_027/1/2008
As end-user expectations continue to rise, and pressure on engineering and manufacturing processes spiral, AEI's European Editor interviewed a number of OEM executives for their thoughts on quality and strategies for better vehicles. Sir Henry Royce would utter a brief riposte to anyone who had the temerity to suggest that Rolls-Royce motor cars were a shade too expensive: “The quality remains long after the price is forgotten,” Today, every new car on the market, whatever its cost, must have embedded quality That does not mean just high-value trim or systems but fundamental quality of design, build, impressive torsional rigidity figures, and a rigorous development program to prove that marketing messages about quality are true and not wishful thinking.
Birch, Stuart
New Method of Vehicle Inspection for Incompatible Crashes2007-01-11844/16/2007
This paper creates a worksheet to thoroughly document vehicle damage during an incompatible vehicle-to-vehicle frontal crash. This data form serves as a supplement to the current and already established NASS inspection forms. It will assist biomechanics research by determining the extent by which incompatibility caused or changed occupants' injuries through structural analysis of the vehicles. This study identifies deficiencies in the current NASS inspection system for compatibility, and develops new measurable parameters to document the crash and associate injury to it.
Alonso, Brian, Stratton, James, Digges, Kennerly
Daily Vehicle Inspection and Vehicle Maintenance Issues in Accident Reconstruction2007-01-07224/16/2007
Problems with commercial motor vehicle components such as service brakes, steering controls, lighting devices, reflectors, tires, coupling devices, and other equipment can lead to accidents. Following a collision, accident reconstructionists may be called upon to determine whether these conditions were present before the crash and whether they were a causative factor. The paper gives an overview of current requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR)(1) and Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) that are related to daily vehicle inspections and commercial vehicle maintenance. Examples are presented to show how post-accident examinations detected vehicle deficiencies that were overlooked in the driver's vehicle inspection and/or fleet maintenance procedures. A discussion is included as to how such findings may be integrated into a reconstruction and cause analysis. Suggestions are offered to promote safer motor carrier practices relevant to vehicle inspections and maintenance issues.
Scott, John, Hoover, Norris, Fay, Richard, Robinette, Ric
The Interaction of MMT® Combustion Products with the Exhaust Catalyst Face2007-01-10784/16/2007
Since the introduction of the catalytic converter, some automobile manufacturers have questioned whether the converter is compatible with the use of the gasoline fuel additive MMT®. Concerns have generally revolved around possible interactions between combustion products of MMT® (i.e., manganese containing compounds) and catalytic converters. In particular, concern has been raised over the possibility that MMT® combustion products physically “plug” the catalyst and cause catalyst failure, where plugging refers to blockage of contiguous pores at the catalyst inlet face or within the body of the converter. In modern vehicles this could result in the illumination of the malfunction indicator light (MIL) due to storing of an on-board diagnostic (OBD) failure code pertaining to catalyst operation or failure of a vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) test. In this paper, work that advances the fundamental understanding of the interactions between MMT® combustion products and monolithic automotive catalysts is presented. Specific emphasis is placed on evaluating the physical interaction between the combustion products of MMT® and catalysts of the type used on vehicles with the most advanced emission control systems (i.e., Tier II or Euro IV vehicles).
Roos, Joseph W., Cunningham, Lawrence J., Meffert, Michael W.
Flammability of Under Hood Insulation Materials2006-01-10114/3/2006
Vehicle inspections have been conducted to identify the use of fuel system fire safety technologies. Of the 89 vehicles inspected, 74 incorporated insulation on the inside of the hood. The flammability of the under hood insulation identified during the vehicle inspections could not be ascertained by visual inspection alone. Consequently, a test program was undertaken to assess the flammability properties of under hood insulation liners from a sample of 20 different vehicles using a cone calorimeter test prescribed by ASTM E 1354-03. The mounting clips for each liner were also tested separately to estimate the temperature required for the clips and liner to disengage from their design locations. The results of the calorimeter tests and the mounting clip tests are presented.
Fournier, E., Bayne, T.
Electronic Vehicle Inspection Reports; A Field Evaluation2004-01-264810/26/2004
Current regulations (49 CFR Part 396.11 and 396.13) mandate that a commercial driver inspect the vehicle at the conclusion of the duty shift. This inspection should note any defects which were noticed during use. This report must be in writing. Unfortunately, many drivers have chosen not to do the inspection, but falsely fill out the report form or simply do nothing at all. A 2002 study shows that as many as 23.7% of all commercial vehicles inspected (levels 1, 2, 5) were found to be defective1. A 2003 study showed that as many as 23.2% of large trucks and 10.3% of commercial buses were deemed out of service2. This poor behavior has a direct effect on safety. Specifically an increased number of accidents related to maintenance defects. In fact, as much as a 5% increase in fatal accidents can be attributed to mechanical defects3. A product has been developed which forces the driver to go to each of the legally prescribed areas of the inspection. This is accomplished by using “Smart Radio Frequency Identification Tags” (R.F.I.D.) which are located on the vehicle at the critical inspection locations. A field evaluation conducted by a Chicago based motorcoach company has been performed and is reported in this paper. The research being presented is of a conceptual nature. That is, can this new technology be used successfully in a large metropolitan area with a varying driver base from which to choose from? Furthermore, this paper is intended to discuss the issues with the pre/post-trip inspection process and the insertion of the Electronic Vehicle Inspection System. However, due to the complexity of the system, its operational mechanics will not be addressed completely in this paper.
Ferrrone, Christopher W.
Harmonization of Australian NCAP with EuroNCAP~Lessons learned2001-06-01256/4/2001
Australian NCAP (ANCAP) began in 1992 with full frontal 56 km/h barrier tests and added the 40% offset deformable barrier test shortly afterwards. In 1999 ANCAP decided to harmonize its testing and evaluation procedures with EuroNCAP (ENCAP). This was so ANCAP could use the results of ENCAP testing on European vehicles where the vehicle specifications were essentially similar to those of the Australian model, thereby reducing the number and cost of tests required to produce consumer information. The process has involved a joint Memorandum of Understanding, close communication between technical and management staff, auditing of ANCAP test results by ENCAP and has required very careful examination of vehicle specifications in the respective continents. Presentation of the results has been different to ENCAP based on Australian research. Training in vehicle inspection techniques to evaluate the subjective aspects of the crash test results required under ENCAP protocols has been an ongoing concern for ANCAP. The harmonization process has been surprisingly smooth and has already benefited both groups by providing information which would not otherwise have been available. For instance, ANCAP has published consumer ratings for a range of expensive European car models which would not otherwise have been tested. There has been close liaison with the motor industry on the changes to the program. Future directions of the program will follow ENCAP in principle. The New Zealand Government and auto club joined the program in 2000 to form Australasian NCAP.
Haley, Jack, Case, Michael, Paine, Michael
Speech-Controlled Wearable Computers for Automotive Shop Workers2001-01-06063/5/2001
Vehicle inspection in repair shops is often still based on paper forms. Information Technology (IT) does not yet support the entire inspection process. In this paper, we introduce a small wearable IT device that is controlled by speech and enables service technicians to wirelessly access relevant data and to perform on-site communication. Users can carry this device in a pocket and use a small headset to enter speech and receive audio feedback. This system provides a completely speech-enabled functionality and thus offers a hands-free operation. After showing the applicability of wearable computers in this environment, we developed a proprietary hardware system consisting of a thin-client connected via a Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) link to a standard Personal Computer (PC) that runs a speech engine and hosts a database. Several field tests in garages helped us during the evolution of our prototypes where service technicians critiqued the prototypes.
Bürgy, Christian, Garrett, James H., Klausner, Markus, Anlauf, Jürgen, Nobis, Günter
Techniques for the Reconstruction of Rollover Accidents Involving Sport Utility Vehicles, Light Trucks and Minivans2000-01-08513/6/2000
Rollover Accidents account for almost 50 percent of fatalities that occur in sport utility vehicles, pickups and minivans, such that increased attention is being paid to these types of accidents. This paper discusses the common types of situations that lead to vehicle rollover of multipurpose passenger vehicles, and the mechanisms that precipitate these situations. Techniques to reconstruct the actual rollover process are presented, and examples are provided to illustrate common rollover trajectories. Parameters that affect variations in these trajectories are discussed. For example, the spacing or distance traveled between touch downs can vary substantially. Identification of these distances is necessary to accurately estimate vehicle rollover speeds, number of rolls and severity of each roll. Vehicle inspection techniques are provided which allow the orientation of the vehicle at the start of the rollover sequence to be established, together with the orientation of the vehicle at each subsequent touch down. Scene survey techniques are also discussed to show how in combination with the vehicle inspection a rollover trajectory can be reconstructed. Finally, techniques are presented which enable the speed of the vehicle at rollover to be calculated and the pre-rollover trajectory to be analyzed. Reconstruction of a number of actual rollover accidents are provided to illustrate the techniques.
Jones, Ian S., Wilson, Lawrence A.
Philippine Automotive Technology Conference/workshopAUTOMAR00_043/1/2000
The Philippine Automotive Technology Conference/Workshop will take place Monday-Friday, April 10-14, at the Dusit Hotel Nikko in Makati City, Manila, Philippines. The event will serve as a forum for industry experts, engineers, researchers, and academics from the Philippines and the United States to address automotive, components, and transportation technologies and strategies as they pertain to the Philippines. The event will be divided into two parts: a conference from April 10-12, and a workshop on April 13-14. At the conference, experts will make presentations on the following topics, which were set forth by representatives from the Philippines and agreed to by U.S. organizers: National Automotive Strategies and Policies Local Parts Suppliers Local Assemblers Technology Transfer and Capability Automotive Components Strategy and Development Total System Supplier Concepts Technology Support to OEMs Export Market Development Regulations, Standards Harmonization, and Safety Standards Setting and Conformance Safety Standards Fuels and Energy Fuel Quality Alternative Fuels Environment and Mobility Emissions Motor Vehicle Inspection System Human Resource Development and Training Vehicle Design and Engineering Curriculum Skills Training and Apprenticeship Programs Human Resource Management
A Prototype Computer Based Test System to Test Commercial Vehicle Air Brake Systems: Application and Test Results1999-01-378211/15/1999
This paper describes a practical and efficient approach for determining complete transient, as well as steady state response of tractor-trailer air brake systems by recording pushrod displacement and air brake service line pressure as a function to time. The test hardware utilizes easy to fabricate “clip on” transducers to measure pushrod stroke length. Data acquisition is via LABVIEW‚. All transducers are easy to temporarily affix to any tractor- trailer and require no alteration to the vehicle. A complete system check takes less time than manually measuring pushrod stroke as required under FMCSA. This system with one treadle application and release gives digital timing and displacement history of all brakes. Useful information includes: application and release profiles (pushrod velocity), shoe compliance upon seating and crack pressure release points for both tractor and trailer relay valves. The authors believe this testing protocol will be useful to Fleet Managers and Maintenance Personnel, Law Enforcement specializing in Commercial Vehicle Inspection and Accident Investigators who need information on brake system performance.
Robertson, Craig V., Smith, Philip J., Ruhl, Roland L.
On an Improved Dynamometer Measuring Technics and OLS-Method98292811/9/1998
Heavy lorries and trailer combinations cause many serious traffic accidents. Improvements in inspection methods of brake systems increase traffic safety. In Finland dynamometer measurements have been used since 1960's, and its advantages are stable measuring conditions, high repetability and short inspection time. Braking force on the wheel periphery generated by the wheel brakes is measured in the roll set of the dynamometer with the help of a power measurement device connected to it. In the vehicle inspection and in the brake repair shops, the estimation of the braking ability of vehicles based on calculated definitions of the performance of the brakes and the retardations to be achieved carried out on the basis of braking forces measured with the dynamometer. The Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications and the
Haataja, Mauri, Leinonen, Tatu
California's Revised Heavy-Duty Vehicle Smoke and Tampering Inspection Program9819518/11/1998
Heavy-duty vehicles account for approximately 30 percent of the oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and 65 percent of the particulate matter (PM) emissions from the entire California on-road fleet, despite the fact that these vehicles comprise only 2 percent of the same. To meet legislative mandates to reduce excess smoke emissions from in-use heavy-duty diesel-powered vehicles, the Air Resources Board (ARB or Board) adopted, in December 1997, amendments to the regulations governing the operation and enforcement of the Heavy-Duty Vehicle Inspection Program (HDVIP or the “roadside” program) and the Periodic Smoke Inspection Program (PSIP or the “fleet” program). The initial roadside program was adopted in November 1990 in response to Senate Bill (SB) 1997 (stat. 1988, ch. 1544, Presley), and enforced from 1991 to 1993. It was suspended in October 1993, when the Board redirected staff to investigate reformulated fuels issues. The Board adopted the fleet program in December 1992, but until recently it had not been enforced. Enforcement of these amended programs commenced in the Spring/Summer of 1998. Compared to having no heavy-duty vehicle inspection programs, the roadside and fleet programs with the amendments are expected to achieve the following emission reductions (in tons per day) of reactive organic gases (ROG), NOx and PM: Diesel fuel consumption will be reduced by approximately 16.7 and 19.2 million gallons annually in 1999 and 2010, respectively. This represents a savings over the 12-year period of approximately 250 million gallons of fuel or over $212 million (at current fuel prices.)
Jacobs, Paul E., Chernich, Donald J., Miller, Elizabeth F., Cabrera, Ramon P., Baker, Michael, Ianni, Robert E., Gaslan, Darryl P., Duleep, K. G., Meszler, Dan
RVP Reduction for Control of Wintertime CO9813735/4/1998
A vehicle emissions test program was conducted to evaluate the impact of gasoline RVP reduction on CO emissions under conditions that are typical of CO exceedance days in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Test results showed that CO emissions were reduced in the Las Vegas fleet when RVP was changed from 12 to 9 psi. In the Los Angeles fleet, the results were less consistent, perhaps due to the poorer integrity of evaporative emissions control systems on these vehicles. This suggests that an optimum emissions control strategy might include both RVP reduction and an effective vehicle inspection and maintenance (I&M) program.
Hoekman, S. Kent, MacArthur, Rory S., Naylor, Michael, Rutherford, James A.
Improving the Calculation of Exhaust Gas Dilution During Constant Volume Sampling9806782/23/1998
The constant volume sampling (CVS) technique, which has been part of the Federal Test Procedure (FTP) for the exhaust emissions testing of light-duty vehicles since the 1972 model year, involves the collection of a sample of exhaust gas after it has been diluted to a constant volume. The FTP specifies a formula for calculating a dilution factor (DF) that is used to correct the emission measurement for the pollutant concentration in the dilution air. Once the DF has been determined, emission measurements made using the CVS technique can be converted to a “raw,” undiluted concentration. This enables a single sampling system to be used to determine either mass emissions or tailpipe concentrations, both of which are required in certain vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs. Review of the DF calculation procedure specified in the FTP indicates that it is a simplification of a more rigorous calculation needed to most accurately determine the true DF. Although the calculated DF is properly used to correct for contamination of the dilution air, the DF calculation procedure specified in the FTP is valid only when the dilution air is uncontaminated. In addition, the DF calculation procedure contained in the FTP is based on the assumption of stoichiometric combustion. Errors are introduced if the vehicle being tested is running richer than stoichiometric. Finally, the DF calculation assumes that emissions are being measured without removal of any water from the sample. This is a good assumption for the way most analytical systems are designed; however, some emissions analysis systems condense water from the sample under certain test conditions. As used in the FTP, the specified DF calculation technique can introduce errors in the mass emissions calculation, but the magnitude of the potential errors is small relative to the current emission standards. When used to calculate raw exhaust concentrations from dilute samples, the DF calculation procedure specified in the FTP can result in errors that are relatively larger. Using a more rigorous derivation of the DF, the accuracy of raw exhaust concentrations calculated from dilute samples is significantly improved. The improved DF calculation procedure would also improve the accuracy of mass emission measurements, which would be desirable when testing vehicles with near zero emissions.
Austin, Thomas C., Caretto, L. S.
Lighting Inspection CodeJ599_199708 (Historical)8/1/1997
This code is intended only for the inspection and maintenance of lighting equipment on motor vehicles that are in use.
Road Illumination Devices Standards Committee
LOW-SPEED IMPACT BUMPER SYSTEM TEST PROCEDURE FOR PASSENGER VEHICLESJ2319_199704 (Historical)4/1/1997
The scope of this SAE Recommended Practice is restricted to the testing of original equipment on passenger vehicles and to provide for a uniform industry test procedure.
Motor Vehicle Council
Alternative Techniques for Detecting Excessive Evaporative Emissions During I/M Tests96209310/1/1996
A modified constant volume sampling (CVS) system has been used to sample fugitive hydrocarbon (HC) emissions to determine whether such systems can help identify excess vehicular HC sources, such as leaking gas caps. The approach was successful in distinguishing tightly sealed, marginally leaking and grossly leaking caps. The technique may be useful in motor vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) facilities as a less intrusive alternative to techniques requiring pressurization of the fuel system.
Di Genova, Frank, Heirigs, Philip, Reineman, Marty
Preconditioning Effects on I/M Test Results Using IM240 and ASM Procedures96209110/1/1996
Laboratory and inspection lane tests of a variety of 1981 and later model year passenger cars and light-duty trucks indicate that the test procedures currently specified for IM240 and Acceleration Simulation Mode (ASM) testing in vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs provide inadequate preconditioning for many vehicles. Changes to both the length of time and the speed-time profile of the preconditioning period are required to minimize false failures while minimizing the time required for testing. Under the current IM240 procedures, test results from the first 93 seconds of the test, called “Phase 1,” are ignored when the composite test results exceed the applicable standards. Phase 1 operation is presumed to be adequate for preconditioning and the pass/fail decision is made based on the last 146 seconds of the test, which is called “Phase 2.” Data from the Arizona I/M program and laboratory tests indicate that most vehicles are not thoroughly warmed-up by running Phase 1 of the IM240 test if they have been waiting in a queue for 15-30 minutes prior to the test. However, adequate warm-up is more often achieved if the order of the two phases is reversed. This will occur because the 146 phase not only is longer, but also contains significantly higher speeds, which are more effective in warming-up the engine and emissions control system. An even more effective test procedure change would be to eliminate the first phase of the test and replace it with two 146-second phases. For vehicles that fail the applicable standards after running two 146-second phases, a comparison of the second-by-second data collected during each phase would indicate whether further warm-up is required, as will be the case in certain circumstances (e.g., following a longer wait in a queue). Under the current procedures for a single mode ASM test, a maximum of 175 seconds of operation is allowed prior to the final chance to pass the emissions standards. Preliminary testing indicates that this level of preconditioning is marginally adequate in a centralized I/M environment as long as the vehicle sits in a queue for less than 30 minutes. In a decentralized I/M environment, where a vehicle may sit for several hours before being tested, longer preconditioning will often be required. Data collected during laboratory testing indicate that additional preconditioning time should be allowed if emissions concentrations are still declining after 175 seconds. In addition, it is apparent that some vehicles exhibit unrepresentative emissions performance under certain ASM test conditions. For vehicles that initially fail to meet the emissions standards, the introduction of a significant speed variation may be required to ensure that the vehicle is not in an open-loop operating mode induced by extended steady-speed operation.
Heirigs, Philip L., Gordon, Jay
British Columbia Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program Experience of Alternative Fuel Vehicle Conversions94191310/1/1994
Basing its conclusions on over one million gasoline vehicle inspections and over 30,000 alternative fuelled vehicle inspections, this paper examines the pass/fail records for each fuel; the problems most common to failing vehicles; and repair strategies used to correct those problems. The paper specifically describes the relationship between the level of technology used in alternative fuel systems and their emissions performance. It is shown that alternative fuelled vehicles are not inherently clean, and that to meet the same emissions standards as gasoline vehicles the alternative fuel system should employ the same level of technology as used in the original gasoline vehicle.
Stewart, Stephen, Gourley, David, Loo, Sam
A Review of the Potential for Vehicle On-Board Diagnostic Safety Systems9215968/1/1992
State and Federally mandated vehicle inspection programs have failed to prevent fatal accidents due to worn parts or failed vehicle systems. Intelligent Vehicle/Highway Systems (IVHS) are being implemented and taking many forms - from traffic information systems to sophisticated automated control of vehicles in motion. W i h IVHS, detecting unsafe vehicle components and systems in use becomes an important issue. This paper looks at On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) and examines how they may be applied, along with supplementary systems, to improve safety in automobiles, especially in an automated control enviroment.
Bryant, Peter E.
Emissions and Fuel Consumption at FTP Test Cycles at +22°C and -2°C from Vehicles Equipped with Block Heaters9200142/1/1992
Tests have been performed on California certified vehicle concepts in the Studsvik laboratory of AB Svensk Bilprovning (the Swedish Vehicle Inspection Company). The tests have been part of the test program performed for the national Swedish environment protection board. In this study the aim was to record the emission and fuel economy performance of the best available emission control technology on the market for a proposal on more stringent emission requirements. All the vehicles were supplied with electrical block heaters with a power rating of about 0.5 kW. This report concentrates on emission results from cold weather starting compared to starting at 22°C, and using blockheater as a mean of lowering emissions at subzero starts.
Laveskog, Anders
Compulsory Periodic Vehicle Inspections91258711/1/1991
The systematic investigation of road accidents by multi-disciplinary teams appears to be the most suitable approach to estimating the proportion of accidents that may be attributable to ‘mechanical defects’. These reports invariably conclude that mechanical defects have an insignificant effect on road accident rates. At current prices an annual vehicle inspection program would cost about $86 million per annum more than the current change of ownership inspection and such a program might lower accident costs by between $9 million and $27 million per annum. At best costs would outweigh benefits 3:1. Periodic inspection thus would not be cost-effective. The RACV suggests that there are alternative safety programs which are cost-effective, and therefore, the money that would need to be spent on an inspection program may be more effectively spent on other road safety initiatives. The RACV believes that continued publicity and increased police surveillance of vehicle conditions, (in particular, of tyre condition) registration and driver licensing on a random selection basis would improve vehicle condition and driver behaviour. Such a procedure would be more cost-effective not only because of lower operational cost, but also because of a wider spread of potential road safety benefits.
Case, M., De Forest, R., Youngman, J.H.R.
Corrosion Damage to Wheel Suspension Parts91229010/1/1991
Corrosion damage on wheel suspension parts has been noticed in recent years by the Swedish Motor Vehicle Inspection Company in their annual control inspection of motor cars. This type of damage, which affects relatively new cars, has not occurred on earlier models to any great extent. Since the breakdown of a wheel suspension can lead to a traffic accident, it has been considered necessary to investigate the problem. By evaluating results from the yearly inspections of motor cars, different car models could be judged with respect to extent and age of corroded vehicles. Damaged wheel suspension parts, especially spring mountings of the McPhearson type, were analysed to explain the causes of the corrosion. To promote traffic safety in Sweden the Swedish Motor Vehicle Inspection Company is responsible for the annual control inspection of motor cars. The age of the car fleet in Sweden has increased according to Fig. 1 if the situation in 1979 is compared with that in 1989. Despite the fact that the average inspected car is older, the corrosion on the car body has decreased if the observation frequencies in different years of inspection is compared, Fig. 2. The most common reason for observations on defects in the structure is perforation corrosion on body parts such as side members, cross members, floor, wheel arches, door pillars and mounting points for chassis components. During recent years, an increased amount of corrosion damages on wheel suspension parts has however been noticed. This initiated a cooperative investigation between the Swedish Corrosion Institute and the Swedish Motor Vehicle Inspection Company to map out the extent and to analyse the causes of the corrosion problems on the wheel suspension parts on motor cars.
Hedlund, Staffan, Odén, Lennart
Development of Improved Loaded-Mode Test Procedures for Inspection and Maintenance Programs8911205/1/1989
The California Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) and Sierra Research, Inc. (Sierra) have evaluated a large number of alternative emissions test procedures and developed new procedures that could substantially increase the ability to identify defective vehicles under vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs. The primary focus of the study was to determine whether an economical “loaded mode” (dynamometer-based) test procedure could be developed that would accurately identify vehicles with emissions in excess of the applicable standards using the Federal Test Procedure (FTP). The results of the BAR/Sierra study show that, using a new “Acceleration Simulation Mode” (ASM) test, 90% of all excess oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions can be identified without the use of transient testing or mass emission measurement. The optimal steady-state test for NOx emissions involves operating the vehicle on a chassis dynamometer at 15 mph with the dynamometer set to absorb about 8-20 horsepower, depending on the weight of the vehicle. The recommended emissions standards for the new test mode are a function of vehicle weight. The BAR/Sierra study also indicates that loaded mode testing is not as effective for identifying excess emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC). Excessive CO emissions are best identified by a 2500 rpm (no-load) test with standards that are a function of either vehicle weight or engine displacement. With such standards, the 2500 rpm test can also predict excessive HC emissions reasonably well. In contrast, the idle test mode has been shown to be poorly correlated with the FTP for all three pollutants.
Austin, Thomas C., Sherwood, Larry
“Evaluation of the Drift of vehicle Inspection/Maintenance Emission Analyzers in use- A California Case Study”8911195/1/1989
Quality assurance (QA) in motor vehicle emissions inspection/maintenance (I/M) programs is a continuing concern, especially in decentralized programs with hundreds or even thousands of licensed stations. The emissions analyzers used in such stations are an important focus of governmental QA efforts because of the central role of analyzers in determining which vehicles need to be repaired. Therefore, the In-use performance of I/M emission analyzers has a large impact on the quality of 1/M programs as a whole. This paper reports on the results of an investigation in California designed to determine in-use performance of emission analyzers in the field. The investigation was designed to evaluate both drift rates and the ability of analyzer systems with automatic gas calibration capability to correct analyzer responses outside of accepted tolerances.
Carhart, Bruce S., Moore, T. J., Peters, Thomas A., Sherwood, Larry D.
The Use of a Chassis Dynamometer for Urban Transit Bys Preventive Maintenance Inspection87226911/1/1987
The use of a chassis dynamometer for inspection maintenance and drive train fault diagnosis has been developed for urban transit buses. Transit bus maintenance management has long sought a means to optimize bus preventive maintenance intervals. Historically, transit bus preventive maintenance has been scheduled with either time or mileage as the controlling parameter. This paper provides a basis for implementing vehicle dynamic testing that can substantially reduce the costs and manpower associated with preventive maintenance inspections and repairs. By subjecting the whole bus to the appropriate repeatable test conditions, certain measurements can be made to ascertain system parameters which can then be compared to established standards to indicate deteriorating conditions and diagnose defects. Dynamic inspection on a chassis dynamometer reduces to practice the maintenance principle, “if it works, don't fix it.” This paper will present the test procedures and equipment specifications that have been used. The integration of the dynamic test program into the preventive maintenance plan is explained and baseline test data for urban transit buses has been developed.
Pellegrin, V., Davis, L. R., Porter, H.
Inspection/Maintenance in the 1990's8706218/1/1987
In the 1990's there will be a different mix of vehicle technologies than existed in the late 1970's when inspection/Maintenance (I/M) programs were first mandated. These changes include the widespread use of “closed-loop” computer control of engine parameters and fuel injection. Several studies by EPA are examined to determine the effect of these changes on existing I/M programs and to investigate new methods of vehicle inspection. The report discusses the effectiveness of a standard idle emission test versus other inspection methods, the role of proper preconditioning, self-diagnostic trouble code checks as a method to identify high emitting vehicles, uncertainties in predicting tampering and misfueling rates for the future, problems with decentralized programs, and the effectiveness of I/M repairs in reducing vehicle emissions as measured on the Federal Test Procedure.
Armstrong, Jane, Brzezinski, David J., Landman, Larry, Glover, Edward L.
Motor Vehicle Air Pollution in Greece—Programs and Policies8710798/1/1987
The purpose of this paper is to survey the environmental problems in Greece caused by road vehicles, to review the actions taken and planned in the last decade by the competent authorities against pollution and to identify the effectiveness of these actions to prevent and reduce atmospheric pollution caused by road vehicles. The major reference is to Athens where the environmental problems were firstly experienced. Where it is possible reference is made to the country as a whole. Setting environmental standards, application of vehicle inspection programs, development of public transport and infrastructure, traffic management schemes, 5-years environmental plans, urban planning and research are the main sectors of action and concern.
Vasilakos, Evangelos K.
Evaluation of the California Smog Check Program8706247/1/1987
A comprehensive vehicle emission testing program has determined that the California vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) program (called “Smog Check”) is reducing emissions of hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and oxides of nitrogen from vehicles subject to the program by 12%, 10%, and 4%, respectively. Although substantial, the emission reductions of HC and CO are falling short of the 25% reduction goal set by the Environmental Protection Agency. Reasons for the shortfall include limitations in the ability of idle emission standards to detect defective vehicles; poor quality of visual and functional inspections; and ineffective repair of many failed vehicles. The overriding problem with the program can be summarized as the failure of participating mechanics to identify and correct emissions defects, especially in 1980 and later model vehicles. There are two types of mechanic performance problems which need to be addressed. First, mechanic training and qualifications are clearly inadequate for the effective inspection and repair of computer controlled vehicles. Second, many mechanics deliberately ignore defects that they are capable of detecting and correcting. Through changes in testing procedures, mechanic qualification requirements, and enforcement practices, existing deficiencies can be corrected and the emission reductions achievable with I/M can exceed 25% for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.
Sommerville, R.J., Cackette, Tom, Austin, Thomas C.
Operational Aspects of the California Smog Check Program8711055/1/1987
California's vehicle inspection and maintenance program (Smog Check) began operation in March 1984. The program has achieved an 11 percent reduction in tailpipe emissions in tested vehicles. Public and industry acceptance is high. This paper describes operational aspects of the program, including what equipment is used, how results are measured, how quality is assured, how the law is enforced, and what changes are being made to increase program benefits.
Dyer, Martin B., Sherwood, Larry D., Hunter, Gary T.
A Sample of I/M Program Evaluation Methods and Procedures as Applied to Colorado's Vehicle Inspection Program86154810/1/1986
Many parts of the country have been in violation of the carbon monoxide and ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Because of these violations, vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs have been implemented throughout the country. A method and procedure of evaluating the benefits of an I/M program as compared to the projected benefits designated in the MOBILE3 Emission Factor model has been developed. The method includes a detailed analysis of the individual operating parameters of an I/M program, such as the vehicle population, waiver procedures, and manual vs. automated analyzers. Evaluation of these parameters can assist agencies to compare benefits of their I/M programs to those projected in MOBILE3. This is of major importance, due to the requirements of the 1987 deadline for carbon monoxide and ozone attainment and the “reasonable extra efforts” program which undoubtedly will be required by EPA.
Gallagher, Jerry, Barrett, Richard, Rogers, Frank
Introduction of Periodical Maintenance/Inspection of Motor Vehicles in Use and Its Automated System85226111/11/1985
To assure safe runnings of motor vehicles, laws in Japan have made it statutory for motor vehicles to periodically undergo motor vehicle tests. During these tests (diagnosis and inspections), brakes, speedometers, wheel alignment, headlamps, exhaust emissions and so forth are inspected by means of appropriate pieces of test equipment. After the test results have been compared against the reference values, "pass/fail" evaluation is indicated, memorized and recorded. Moreover, instructions for the driver are provided on indicators. The test equipment with such capabilities has been employed in the government-run motor vehicle inspection stations in Japan. In addition to such government-run motor vehicle inspection stations, this paper deals with an automated motor vehicle inspection system which has been designed compactly and which is to be used in nongovernmental service shops directly connected with services and repairs.
Nakajima, Akira
A Survey of the Condition of Lighting Equipment on Vehicles in the United States8502292/1/1985
A nationwide survey was conducted of the condition of vehicle lighting equipment. Twenty different sites were visited and a total of nearly 1, 000 vehicles included in the sample. Headlamp aim and dirt levels were measured and the condition of marker and signal lamps noted. The results of the survey indicate that many vehicles have headlamps that are badly aimed. The condition of front and rear marker and signal lamps is generally good, with more than 98% of such units functioning. Side marker lights were in poorer shape, hut more than 90% of these were operating. Consistent differences were found between areas with and without vehicle inspection programs. It appears that such programs are effective in improving the condition of vehicle lighting systems.
Olson, Paul L.
The Program of Greece to Address - Motor Vehicle Air Pollution8503922/1/1985
A series of measures are developed in Greece, in order to face and solve the complex problems of environmental pollution caused among other sources by motor vehicles. These measures are basically aiming at reducing air pollution in Athens Area where the basic source of a number of pollutants is traffic and where fleet has increased very rapidly in the past twenty years. Setting environmental standards, application of vehicle inspection programs, development of public transport and infrastructure, new traffic management schemes and integrated urban planning are the main sectors of actions and planning which are expected to reduce pollution and prevent the deterioration of the human and material environment. Research on the interaction between transport and the environment is in progress.
Vasilakos, E. K.
The California Approach to Vehicle Inspection/Maintenance8312138/8/1983
Though primarily decentralized, California has proposed a biennial Inspection/Maintenance Program that is a hybrid of the decentralized and centralized concepts of vehicular pollution inspections. Private repair garages will volunteer to become licensed by the State in order to conduct inspections and repairs. This novel approach greatly enhances motorist convenience but also results in lesser inspection and repair accuracy than seen in the typical centralized approach. Several features have been built into the proposed program that protect the motorist and minimize decisions on the part of the mechanic. Equipment and quality assurance measures are comparable to those typically found in a centralized approach. The major features of the program will be discussed in this paper.
Wallauch, John R.
LIGHTING INSPECTION CODEJ599_198105 (Historical)5/1/1981
Road Illumination Devices Standards Committee
A Comparison of Private Garage and Centralized I&M Programs7907852/1/1979
A fundamental decision to be made in developing a motor vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (I&M) program is whether a “centralized” or “private garage” program will be used. Under the centralized approach, the state or a state contractor operates a network of single purpose “Inspection Centers” to inspect motor vehicles before the completion of the annual registration renewal process. After any repairs necessary to correct vehicles with excessive emissions are made at a facility of the owner's choosing, the vehicle must pass a reinspection at the Inspection Center. Under the private garage (decentralized) approach, both inspections and repairs are conducted by private repair facilities licensed by the state. A comparison of a centralized I&M program and a private garage I&M program currently operating in California indicates that the centralized program is providing over ten times greater emissions reductions. The superior performance of the centralized program appears to be due in large part to the fact that emissions related defects are more efficiently and reliably identified with the use of highly automated Inspection Centers. The fact that vehicles with excessive emissions are independently reinspected to check the quality of the repairs performed also appears to be a factor contributing to the superior performance of centralized I&M programs. An analysis of the potential for upgrading both programs indicates that the private garage approach is unlikely to ever be competitive with a centralized I&M program.
Austin, Thomas C., Rubenstein, Gary
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) Program as a Viable Cost-Effective Emissions Reduction Option7906492/1/1979
This paper summarizes the actions and results pursuant to the development of a motor vehicle inspection/maintenance program. The general methodology used in collecting data, determining criteria, screening program options, and evaluating alternative configurations are presented. General results for various criteria such as: emissions reduction, repair costs, fuel savings, and capital/operating costs are included based on the study findings from a number of states. The basic state administrative option was used as a basis for presenting the data.
Gunderson, J. A., Vodonick, E. J., Pan, G., Clark, D.
Official Inspection Procedures for Road Vehicles in Great Britain7800312/1/1978
The various systems of inspecting the condition of road vehicles in Great Britain are presented. Firstly, the system of public service vehicle inspection is described, together with the results of these inspections. Secondly, the system of using authorised commercial garages to inspect passenger cars, motor cycles and light vehicles is covered. Representative figures of the results of these tests are given. Thirdly, the inspection of heavier goods vehicles and trailers is dealt with and a detailed description is given of the system used for the inspection of these vehicles at Government owned and operated testing stations. The paper, therefore, deals with the following three types of inspection systems:- (i) Inspection at the roadside and at operators' premises by Department of Transport examiners. (ii) Inspection by commercial garages supervised by Department of Transport examiners. (iii) Inspection at Government owned testing stations conducted by Department of Transport examiners.
Toyne, C. C.
Inspection, Defect Detection, and Accident Causation in Commercial Vehicles7701162/1/1977
A recently completed HSRI study, “Effects of Commercial Vehicle Systematic Preventive Maintenance on Specific Causes of Accidents”, concluded that an identifiable relationship exists between good commercial vehicle inspection and maintenance practices and a reduction in defect-related accidents. The better maintenance practices were usually associated with larger firms, and poorer maintenance practices more often were associated with smaller firms or individual owner operators. Also documented was the need for improved or modified inspection and maintenance requirements as stated in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
McDole, Thomas L.
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