Browse Topic: Vehicle inspections

Items (76)

SAE TOMORROW TODAY: Drive-Through Vehicle Inspections Powered by AI

1341510/03/2023

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

Hineman, Marcie

Diagnostic and Repair Services for Advanced Driver Aid Systems and Automated Vehicles

1333610/07/2022

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 Lab

22AUTP09_0809/01/2022

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

Buchholz, Kami

Low-Speed Impact Bumper System Test Procedure for Passenger Vehicles

J2319_201910 (Current)

10/03/2019

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 Code

J599_201511 (Current)

11/05/2015

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 Classification

2013-01-2765

11/27/2013

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

Vozchikov, Lev M.

Benefits and Methodology for Dimensioning a Vehicle Using a 3D Scanner for Accident Reconstruction Purposes

2012-01-0617

04/16/2012

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

Tandy, Donald F., Coleman, Clay, Colborn, Jason, Hoover, Todd, Bae, Jung

OBD Testing in Oregon - A Inspection/Maintenance Perspective

10VOBD0810/30/2011

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 Operations

TBMG-587111/01/2009

TriDAR vision system Neptec Design Group Ottawa, ON, Canada 613-599-7602 www.neptec.com

The QUALITY race continues

AUTOJUL08_0207/01/2008

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

Daily Vehicle Inspection and Vehicle Maintenance Issues in Accident Reconstruction

2007-01-072204/16/2007

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

Scott, John, Hoover, Norris, Fay, Richard, Robinette, Ric

New Method of Vehicle Inspection for Incompatible Crashes

2007-01-1184

04/16/2007

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

The Interaction of MMT® Combustion Products with the Exhaust Catalyst Face

2007-01-107804/16/2007

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

Roos, Joseph W., Cunningham, Lawrence J., Meffert, Michael W.

Flammability of Under Hood Insulation Materials

2006-01-101104/03/2006

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 Evaluation

2004-01-264810/26/2004

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

Ferrrone, Christopher W.

Harmonization of Australian NCAP with EuroNCAP~Lessons learned

2001-06-012506/04/2001

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

Haley, Jack, Case, Michael, Paine, Michael

Speech-Controlled Wearable Computers for Automotive Shop Workers

2001-01-060603/05/2001

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 Minivans

2000-01-085103/06/2000

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

Jones, Ian S., Wilson, Lawrence A.

Philippine Automotive Technology Conference/workshop

AUTOMAR00_0403/01/2000

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

Passenger Vehicles and Light Trucks Vehicle Inspection Handbook

B-83712/01/1999

Written by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA), in partnership with the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA), the Passenger Vehicles & Light Trucks Vehicle Inspection Handbook is now available through the SAE International Bookstore. Chapters include: Brakes Tires & Wheels Suspension & Steering Lighting & Electrical Vehicle Glazing Visibility & Interior Body Components Occupant Restraint Systems and more Published by American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators. Distributed by SAE International. Click here to see the Vehicle Inspection Handbooks Set

Motorcycles Vehicle Inspection Handbook

B-84012/01/1999

Written by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA), in partnership with the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA), this book is now available through the SAE International Bookstore. Chapters include: Fuel System Exhaust System Passenger Safety Items Motorcycle Frame & Swing Arm Tires, Wheels, Rims & Spokes and more Published by American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators. Distributed by SAE International. Published by American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators. Distributed by SAE. Click here to see the Vehicle Inspection Handbooks Set

Trucks, Buses, & Trailers Vehicle Inspection Handbook

B-83812/01/1999

Written by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA), in partnership with the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA), the Trucks, Buses, & Trailers Vehicle Inspection Handbook is now available through the SAE International Bookstore. Chapters include: Power Train Suspension Electrical System Hydraulic Brake Systems Lamps Instruments & Auxiliary Equipment Body and more Published by American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators. Distributed by SAE International. Click here to see the Vehicle Inspection Handbooks Set

A Prototype Computer Based Test System to Test Commercial Vehicle Air Brake Systems: Application and Test Results

1999-01-378211/15/1999

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

Robertson, Craig V., Smith, Philip J., Ruhl, Roland L.

On an Improved Dynamometer Measuring Technics and OLS-Method

98292811/09/1998

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 Program

98195108/11/1998

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

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 CO

98137305/04/1998

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 Sampling

98067802/23/1998

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

Austin, Thomas C., Caretto, L. S.

Lighting Inspection Code

J599_199708 (Historical)

08/01/1997

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 VEHICLES

J2319_199704 (Historical)

04/01/1997

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

Preconditioning Effects on I/M Test Results Using IM240 and ASM Procedures

96209110/01/1996

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

Heirigs, Philip L., Gordon, Jay

Alternative Techniques for Detecting Excessive Evaporative Emissions During I/M Tests

96209310/01/1996

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

British Columbia Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program Experience of Alternative Fuel Vehicle Conversions

94191310/01/1994

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 Systems

921596

08/01/1992

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 Heaters

92001402/01/1992

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 Inspections

91258711/01/1991

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

Case, M., De Forest, R., Youngman, J.H.R.

Corrosion Damage to Wheel Suspension Parts

91229010/01/1991

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

Hedlund, Staffan, Odén, Lennart

Development of Improved Loaded-Mode Test Procedures for Inspection and Maintenance Programs

89112005/01/1989

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

Austin, Thomas C., Sherwood, Larry

“Evaluation of the Drift of vehicle Inspection/Maintenance Emission Analyzers in use- A California Case Study

89111905/01/1989

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 Inspection

87226911/01/1987

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

Pellegrin, V., Davis, L. R., Porter, H.

Inspection/Maintenance in the 1990's

870621

08/01/1987

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.