Browse Topic: Commercial vehicles

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A Proposed Methodology for Human Operator Modeling and Development of a Virtual Operator Model for Control of a Simulated Compact Track Loader2026-01-0146To be published on 04/07/2026
A methodology for performing Human Operator Modeling (HOM) using a Caterpillar Model 299D3 XE Compact Track Loader (CTL) is presented. The proposed method uses task analysis techniques to decompose a material excavation and moving task into smaller, individual tasks presented in a task list. A method for verifying and refining the task list is presented, along with a procedure for identifying relevant human operator sensory information and analyzing human decision making in the context of CTL operation. This methodology is then partially verified through the analysis of a non-expert human operator in Vortex Studio, a realistic construction equipment simulator. A modified test course is executed by a non-expert human operator in the simulation environment, and the recorded data is used to create a quantitative Human Operator Model. From this, a Virtual Operator Model (VOM) feedback controller simulating the performance of the human operator is developed. The VOM is implemented using a
Wang, Orson R., Norris, William R., Patterson, Albert E., Soylemezoglu, Ahmet, Nottage, Dustin S.
Simulink DevOps Evolution: Bridging Interactive Platforms for Accelerated Model-Based Workflows2026-01-0080To be published on 04/07/2026
This paper builds on last year’s paper presenting DevOps automation in the context of model-based development. Following that paper, we interviewed Simulink users in passenger automotive, motorsports, commercial vehicles, aviation, rocketry, and industrial automation. We discovered that much of the benefit of DevOps platforms to reduce product development cycle time relies on their interactive features. We prototyped new tools to bridge interactive DevOps Git-based platforms with model-based development workflows, and then gathered reactions from another round of interviews. Here we present these interactive DevOps workflows with the feedback from these interviews to contextualize how engineering teams could adopt them to accelerate their own model-based workflows.
Mathews, Jon, Ferrero, Sergio, Tamrawi, Ahmed, Sauceda, Jeremias
Forensic Acquisition and Analysis of Unsupported Lexus Infotainment Modules via CMD42 Bypass and Data Carving2026-01-0540To be published on 04/07/2026
Crashes involving passenger vehicles increasingly include models equipped with infotainment modules that are unsupported by commercial vehicle system forensics hardware and software. Examiners facing these systems must overcome challenges in acquiring and analyzing user data, requiring an understanding of both digital forensics principles and the proprietary characteristics of the modules. This paper presents a novel methodology for acquiring data from previously unsupported Lexus infotainment modules, including techniques to bypass CMD42 security locks on SD cards and extract data in a forensically sound manner. Once acquired, the paper outlines methods for analyzing user data through data carving techniques, enabling recovery of information from binary images even when the full file system cannot be reconstructed. Emphasis is placed on maintaining the integrity of the evidence and validating findings through controlled testing. These validation procedures ensure that the recovered
Burgess, Shanon
Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Wind-Induced Interior Noise in Ground Vehicles2026-01-0599To be published on 04/07/2026
In response to increasing customer demand for enhanced passenger comfort and perceived vehicle quality, OEMs in automotive and commercial vehicles are placing significant emphasis on reducing the interior cabin noise. At highway speeds, wind noise is a primary contributor to the overall noise within the vehicle cabin. Conventional approaches to predict vehicle wind noise rely on physical testing, which can only be conducted in the later stages of the design process once a physical prototype is available. Increased adoption of established computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods has enabled earlier assessment. However, such simulations require several hours to complete, posing a challenge in the context of rapid design iteration cycles. With the growing adoption of artificial intelligence in engineering, machine learning (ML) approaches have been proposed to predict a vehicle’s aerodynamics performance. Nevertheless, development of ML techniques in the context of aeroacoustics
Higgins, John, Fougere, Nicolas, Sondak, David, Senthooran, Sivapalan, Moron, Philippe, Jantzen, Andreas, Bi, Jing, Oancea, Victor
Camera Monitor System Soiling Correlation for a Class-8 Truck Using Lattice Boltzmann Method2026-01-0596To be published on 04/07/2026
As Camera Monitoring Systems (CMS) become an integrated part of the driving experience for current automotive and heavy vehicles, keeping the CMS clean from water, dirt, sand, snow and ice is a main focus of the design process in order to avoid safety issues due to obscured visibility. On-road soiling prevention becomes an important feature when designing these camera and sensor systems. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis can be used to facilitate the design process, to provide important information of the cause of the problems and design mitigation mechanism to prevent the visibility issues. There are many published papers for soiling studies for the automotive application but very limited publication available for heavy trucks, this paper is targeted to fill this space. In these current studies during a design process, road tests were performed in Alaska by the testing department. Correlation was done between those road tests and the CFD analysis, performed in-house. This
He, Wei, Dasarathan, Devaraj, Linden, Tom, Park, Jeongbin
Wind-Tunnel Study of the Traffic-Wake Impacts for Road-Vehicle Aerodynamics2026-01-0613To be published on 04/07/2026
When driving in traffic, the wakes of leading vehicles reduce the wind speed experienced by a following vehicle, lowering its drag relative to isolated driving. These wake effects can persist to large intervehicle distances, on the order of hundreds of meters, while lateral convection due to cross winds can influence vehicles in adjacent lanes. Wind tunnel testing was conducted at 30% scale for light- and heavy-duty-vehicle models in a large wind tunnel with a traffic-wake simulation system, expanding upon a previous study that examined only heavy vehicles. Three variants of the DrivAer model, four variants of the AeroSUV model, and three variants of a zero-emission heavy-duty-truck model were tested with a range of simulated wake conditions that varied the type, forward distance, and lane position of the wake-source vehicle(s), for a range of yaw angles up to 11deg. Results show drag reductions of up to about 10% for the heavy-truck model, and up to about 20% for the passenger-vehicle
McAuliffe, Brian, Ghorbanishohrat, Faegheh, Barber, Hali
A Novel Power-Split Hybrid Electric Architecture for Off-Road Tracked Vehicles: Design and Performance Evaluation.2026-01-0258To be published on 04/07/2026
Tracked off-road vehicles operate at low speeds with high tractive effort and frequent skid-steer maneuvers, conditions that push torque and power demand to extremes and exacerbate powertrain efficiency losses. Electrification can improve energy conversion and mobility for such duty cycles. This paper introduces a novel power-split hybrid electric architecture for a tracked vehicle and benchmarks it against three designs: a conventional mechanical driveline, a series hybrid, and a P2 parallel hybrid. To enable fair, architecture-agnostic comparisons, a supervisory controller based on Stochastic Dynamic Programming (SDP) schedules engine operation and power flow across all layouts under representative off-road scenarios, including skid-steer events, with varying terrain and power-demand profiles. Results show higher energy conversion efficiency (lower fuel use) for the proposed power-split architecture, followed by the parallel, then series, and lastly conventional configuration across
Ghate, Atharva, Sundar, Anirudh, Zhu, Qilun, Prucka, Robert, Figueroa-Santos, Miriam, Barron, Morgan, Castanier, Matthew P.
Research on Parameter Matching and Control Strategy of Electric Semi trailer Power System2026-01-0449To be published on 04/07/2026
Reducing carbon emissions is an important issue for environmental protection, while also saving fossil fuels for all mankind and preventing global warming. Therefore, reducing carbon emissions is of great significance. The carbon emissions in the transportation sector account for an important proportion of global carbon emissions, and the carbon emissions of heavy-duty commercial vehicles also account for an important proportion of the carbon emissions in the transportation sector. Therefore, the electrification of heavy-duty commercial vehicles is one of the important ways to save energy and reduce emissions for heavy-duty vehicles. Especially the research topic of this article: semi-trailer trains. Similar to passenger cars, semi-trailer trains also have two electrification ideas: hybrid and electric drive. Considering the high energy demand of heavy-duty commercial vehicles, the high cost of large capacity batteries, the current low level of development of electric heavy-duty
Zheng, Hongyu, Zhu, Kaixuan, Zhang, Yuzhou
Impact of Hydrogen on Methane and Pollutant Emissions over Three-Way Catalysts with Natural Gas–Hydrogen Blends2026-01-0357To be published on 04/07/2026
Natural gas (NG) is a domestically abundant, low-cost fuel with the potential to displace gasoline and diesel fuel in commercial and off-road vehicles. NG engines typically produce lower engine-out pollutant emissions, such as NOx, CO and particulate matter, which could simplify emission control systems. Blending NG with hydrogen (H₂) can improve engine performance and increase combustion efficiency to further reduce engine-out emissions. Additionally, the presence of H2 in the exhaust stream may also facilitate the catalytic conversion of methane and other pollutants, resulting in cleaner tailpipe emissions. This study evaluates the impact of H2 on the conversion of methane, CO, and NOx emissions on a commercial three-way catalyst (TWC) in a flow reactor using synthetic gas mixtures that simulate stoichiometric engine exhausts with NG or NG+H₂ combustion. The work examines whether, and how, the additional amount of H₂ in the exhaust stream affects the conversion efficiency of methane
Prikhodko, Vitaly, Wang, Min, Park, Yeonshil, Chen, Hai-Ying, Pihl, Josh
Performance Analysis and Optimization of a Drizzling-Based Evaporative Cooling for Enhanced Thermal Management of FCEV Stack2026-01-0115To be published on 04/07/2026
In response to increasingly stringent global emissions regulations, including Euro 7, the automotive industry is intensifying its focus on eco-friendly propulsion systems. Among them, hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) have emerged as a promising alternative in the commercial transport sector, offering high energy density, rapid refueling, long driving range, and minimal payload limitations. However, the operational efficiency and durability of fuel cell stacks heavily depend on effective thermal management, and insufficient cooling can lead to power degradation and reduced lifespan. This study proposes a novel thermal management strategy that enhances stack cooling performance by directly applying fuel cell discharge water onto the radiator surface, utilizing latent heat of evaporation. To overcome the structural complexity and control challenges of high-pressure spray systems, a gravity-driven low-pressure drizzling method was adopted, achieving both system simplification
Lee, Dongkeon, Seo, Jungmin, Lee, Seogjun, Son, Dongwook, Lee, Hoseong, Shin, Yoonhyuk, Kang, Hyunsung
Energy Efficiency Analysis of U-Haul Truck and Trailer Systems: Impact of Tongue Weight and Load Variations2026-01-0466To be published on 04/07/2026
The demand for improved energy efficiency in real-world vehicle operations continues to grow with technology enhancement. When transporting large cargos with passenger pickup trucks and rental trailers, the interaction between vehicle payload, towing configuration, and fuel consumption becomes a key factor in overall system efficiency. Understanding how towing configurations and trailer loading influence fuel consumption and vehicle performance is critical for both consumer guidance and vehicle system design. This study investigates the energy efficiency of U-Haul truck and trailer systems, with a particular focus on the influence of trailer tongue weight. U-Haul truck and trailer simulation models were developed using AVL Vehicle Simulation Model (VSM) software, with an F-350 engine brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) map integrated to represent realistic engine performance. Two configurations with equal payload were evaluated: (1) a U-Haul truck alone, and (2) a U-Haul truck
Wang, Gang, Yang, Allan, Chen, Yan
Survivability, Lethality, and Mobility Requirements of Military Vehicles Conducting Future Wet Gap Crossings2026-01-0264To be published on 04/07/2026
Wet gap crossings, which involve moving military forces across rivers and other water obstacles, are among the most difficult maneuvers that units can perform. These operations are complicated by choke points, fast-flowing water, and the exposure of forces to enemy fire. Despite these challenges, wet gap crossings remain critical to battlefield success, particularly during large-scale combat operations. Consequently, military vehicles must be designed with these operations in mind. This study examines doctrinal approaches to wet gap crossings and the trade-offs between mobility, survivability, and lethality in relation to fording, floating, rafting, and bridging. The analysis incorporates open-source data from the Institute for the Study of War, which provides daily updates on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and Oryxspioenkop, which collates open-source images of Russian and Ukrainian battle-damaged equipment. This data is used to assess additional challenges encountered during wet gap
Lynch, Benjamin, Dosan, Logan, Mittal, Vikram
Achieving 70% Urban Fuel Consumption Reduction: An Opposed-Piston Engine-Based Mild-Hybrid Powertrain Architecture for Light Commercial Vehicles (JLA-2/JLA-T)2026-01-0432To be published on 04/07/2026
This paper proposes a novel powertrain architecture for the urban Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment, leveraging the compact JLA-2 opposed-piston (OP) engine paired with the reconfigurable JLA-T mild-hybrid architecture. Within SAE literature, OP engines are consistently associated with simplicity. As highlighted by Tom Ryan III (2008 SAE President) in the foreword of Opposed Piston Engines: Evolution, Use, and Future Applications, this architecture is characterized by its manufacturing simplicity” and described as a “relatively simple, robust, and cost effective” power unit solution. The present work builds on this established view. The JLA-2 engine solves traditional packaging constraints by reducing the block width by 30% for horizontal installation and is volumetrically self-sufficient, eliminating external compressors. Although the gear train required for crank synchronization introduces design challenges, explicitly accounted for in our model, the elimination of the cylinder
Nigro, Norberto, Aguerre, Horacio, Carignano, Mauro Guido, Alonso, José Luis, Juni, Carlos A.
Methodology for generating off-road tracks for powertrain simulation of off-road passenger vehicles2026-01-0275To be published on 04/07/2026
For off-road driving, particularly on steep grades and over barriers, the engine torque is a key design criterion of off-road vehicles. In conventional powertrains with combustion engines, mechanical all-wheel-drive systems combined with differential locks are used to distribute the torque demand between the front and the rear axle based on wheel-specific traction. With the growing market share of electric powertrains, off-road applications are becoming increasingly relevant for electric passenger cars. In comparison to conventional powertrains, electric all-wheel-drive configurations do not have a mechanical torque transfer between the two axles. If one axle experiences low traction, the second axle can rely on its own torque capability only. Transfer of unused torque of the slipping axle to the other one is not possible. The challenge, therefore, is to specify the right torque requirements for each axle for off-road driving while avoiding an over-dimensioning and high powertrain
Martin, Michael, Winkelheide, Jonas, Hartmann, Lukas, Sturm, Axel, Henze, Roman
Hybrid Prediction Model of Wheel-Traction Force on Soft Soil Based on High-Precision Contact Angle2026-01-0594To be published on 04/07/2026
Traction force plays a critical role in the design of off-road vehicles and the evaluation of terrain trafficability. The accuracy of the traditional Bekker-Wong semi-empirical formula for predicting wheel traction force depends on the precision of parameters such as the entry contact angle, departure contact angle, and maximum stress angle. However, the calculation of these angles is often influenced by multiple empirical factors, which significantly reduces the accuracy of traction force prediction.To improve prediction accuracy, this study proposes a hybrid traction force prediction method that integrates Abaqus simulation with a semi-empirical model. First, a wheel-soil interaction simulation model was established in Abaqus using the FEM-SPH coupling method. Then, computer vision-based image feature extraction techniques were applied to process the simulation result contours, obtaining accurate values for the entry contact angle, departure contact angle, and maximum stress angle
Cao, Ruibin, Wang, Kaidi, Shen, Yanhua, Liu, Zuyang
Backward Fuzzy Driving Control for 6×4 Off-Road Vehicles2026-01-0148To be published on 04/07/2026
Offroad autonomous vehicle systems must be able to operate across unstructured and variable terrain while avoiding obstacles. This presents significant challenges in vehicle and control system design, especially for less conventional platforms such as 6x4 vehicles. While forward driving autonomy has developed and matured in recent years, effective reverse navigation remains an under-explored area of vehicle co-design. Reversing 6x4 vehicles have limited rear steering authority, an extended wheelbase, and asymmetric traction, which introduce complex dynamics into any control system that is used. To address this need, a robust and experimentally validated fuzzy logic control architecture for 6x4 reverse navigation was developed during the course of this project. This architecture incorporates both near-field and long-range path data with adaptive outputs controlling steering and velocity based on a rule base that covers the whole vehicle state space. This method has low computational
Dekhterman, Sam, Patterson, Albert, Sreenivas PhD, Ramavarapu, Norris, William, Soylemezoglu PhD, Ahmet, Nottage PhD, Dustin
Multiple-Parameter Joint Estimation for Unmanned Mining Trucks Based on Real-Time Cornering Stiffness Identification2026-01-0618To be published on 04/07/2026
High-precision estimation of key vehicle–road state parameters is essential for accurate and safe vehicle control, as well as for reliable trajectory tracking and path planning. However, the strong nonlinearity of tire forces makes real-time estimation of tire cornering stiffness challenging, and the uncertainty of this parameter significantly limits the performance of conventional estimation methods. To overcome this issue, this study proposes a novel joint estimation framework that integrates the Square-Root Cubature Kalman Filter (SCKF) with Moving Horizon Estimation (MHE). In the proposed approach, the SCKF provides high-accuracy estimation of the vehicle sideslip angle, while the MHE enables real-time identification and updating of tire cornering stiffness using vehicle state information over a short horizon. This establishes a closed-loop joint estimation mechanism between sideslip angle and cornering stiffness. Furthermore, the real-time updated cornering stiffness is
Xia, Xue, Shen, Peihong, Jiao, Leqi, Li, Tao, Chen, Huiyong, Zhao, Kun, Jiao, Leqi, Zhao, Zhiguo
Multi-Physics Topology Optimization and Machine Learning Surrogates for Lightweight Cast Automotive Parts2026-01-0510To be published on 04/07/2026
This paper proposes an integrated optimization framework for lightweight cast vehicle structures by combining Multi-Physics Topology Optimization (MPTO) with machine learning (ML)-driven surrogate modeling. Conventional structural optimization approaches often rely on simplified load cases—such as 3 g inertial loading, frame torsion, or bending—rather than capturing the true complexity of performance-critical conditions like crashworthiness and fatigue durability. As a result, designs optimized for a single criterion frequently degrade in other performance areas, leading to costly redesigns or over-engineered solutions. The proposed methodology introduces MPTO through four structured steps that progressively build design fidelity. Step 1 establishes a baseline primitive topology optimization workflow using a standardized package checklist, ensuring that the design domain, boundary conditions, constraints, and key manufacturing rules are consistently defined as the foundation for
Kim, Hyosig, Senkowski, Andres, Gona, Kiran, Saroha, Lalit, Boraiah, Mahesh
Energy Management Strategy for Hybrid Mining Trucks Based on Global SOC Planning and Neural Network Optimal Control2026-01-0446To be published on 04/07/2026
Hybrid mining trucks, as core equipment for mine transportation, face high energy consumption and significant fluctuations in power demand during cyclic operations due to prolonged exposure to demanding operating conditions characterized by heavy loads and variable working conditions. To address the issues of high energy consumption and significant fluctuations in power demand during the cyclic operation of mining trucks, this paper proposes a hybrid mining truck energy management strategy based on global SOC (State of Charge) planning and neural network optimization control. First, a powertrain model was developed for a typical operating cycle of a hybrid mining truck, and its accuracy was validated by comparing it with experimental data. Using dynamic programming algorithms to plan the SOC for single-cycle operations provides a rational reference for energy allocation across different operational phases of mining trucks during a single cycle. Next, using the powerful nonlinear
Yang, Jianyu, Zhao, Zhiguo, Chen, Huiyong, Li, Tao, ZHUANG, Wenyu, Shen, Peihong, Tang, Peng
Protection of Megawatt-Scale DC Charging Infrastructure for Heavy Duty Vehicles: A Review of Current Technologies and Future Roadmap2026-01-0400To be published on 04/07/2026
Abstract Direct Current (DC) fast charging enables the direct delivery of megawatt (MW) scale power to the large battery systems of heavy-duty electric vehicles (EVs), such as trucks, buses, and construction machinery. This contrasts with Alternating Current (AC) charging, which is constrained by the limited capacity of onboard chargers. The feasibility of ultra-fast DC charging has been driven by advancements in semiconductor technology offering higher voltage and current handling capabilities as well as improvements in battery energy density. Ongoing research indicates continued growth in both semiconductor power handling and battery storage capacity, further strengthening the case for ultra-fast DC charging. Key benefits include significantly higher charging efficiency, drastically reduced charging times, and lower driver fatigue. However, unlike AC systems, DC charging infrastructure presents unique protection challenges. These challenges arise from the rapid rise of DC fault
Rahman, Md Rakib-Ur, Dobrzynski, Daniel
Optimizing Custom Hybrid Solutions for Low-Volume Specialist Equipment2026-01-0479To be published on 04/07/2026
Off-road vehicles are typically powered by diesel engines, sized to cover the highest peak loads in their dutycycles. Such engines can be downsized, using hybridization to supplement engine power for short periods. However, many applications are low-volume and specialized, making it impractical to deploy heavy engineering resources to optimize every one. For this reason, manufacturers tend to produce maid-of-all-work vehicles to cover every situation. This paper demonstrates the benefits of custom hybridization for specialist applications. It also introduces a simulation tool to benefit OEMs who seek to provide custom low-volume vehicles based on common platforms. The simulation tool is a fast, low-cost, cloud-based software package under development at ZeBeyond, provisionally named "ePop Cloud". It allows many different architectures to be evaluated rapidly at the product planning stage, and can be quickly set up and used by engineers who are not specialists in simulation. An
De Salis, Rupert, Fons, Daniel
Research on Economy Mode Control Algorithm for Pure Electric Tractor with Powered Trailer2026-01-0425To be published on 04/07/2026
This research presents a comprehensive investigation into the electrification development pathway and energy-saving optimization methodologies for commercial tractor vehicles. Given the pivotal role that commercial vehicles play in modern logistics and transportation sectors, their propulsion systems are undergoing a fundamental transition from traditional internal combustion engines toward more sustainable hybrid and pure electric architectures. Simultaneously, the emerging trend of trailer electrification has gained considerable attention, where conventional trailers are retrofitted with motorized axles to form cooperative powertrain systems, demonstrating substantial energy-saving potential as confirmed by multiple research studies. Utilizing an integrated Trucksim and MATLAB/Simulink co-simulation platform, this study developed sophisticated vehicle dynamics models, detailed electric drive system models, and advanced battery models, which were subsequently integrated to establish a
tong, zi yu, Zheng, Hongyu, Li, Gang
Speed Determination Using Audio of Dash Camera Video from Commercial Vehicle Tires Frequencies for Vehicle Accident Reconstruction2026-01-0536To be published on 04/07/2026
Prior research has validated a reliable method for determining vehicle speed using audio recorded by cameras mounted in vehicles, specifically for rolling passenger vehicle tires. Passenger vehicle tires produce a frequency component directly correlated to vehicle speed when traveling on concrete roadways. However, prior research has not been conducted on audio for rolling commercial vehicle tires, which differ in construction from passenger vehicle tires and therefore produce audio signals on roadway surfaces that passenger vehicles tires did not when tested in the prior study. The current research concluded that commercial vehicle tires rolling on various roadway surfaces also generated a frequency that varied with vehicle speed. The purpose of this study was to outline, test, and confirm the source of the speed-dependent frequency and to develop a validated method for use in forensic applications. A modified version of the passenger vehicle tire equation from prior research was
Vega, Henry V., Cornetto, Anthony, Ngo, Long Justin, Hatab, Ziad, Hunter, Eric
Clustering-Based Segmentation of Off-Road Vehicle Activity into Productive and Non-Productive States from GPS Data2026-01-0169To be published on 04/07/2026
Accurate identification of Productive and Non-Productive States or Off-Road vehicle duty cycles—comprising working, idle, and transport states—is critical for performance analysis, fuel optimization, and emissions modeling in agriculture machinery and fleet operations. This study explores the application of unsupervised machine learning techniques to classify duty cycles using GPS-derived parameters such as speed, location variance, and temporal patterns. Unlike supervised approaches, the proposed method does not rely on labeled datasets, making it scalable and adaptable across diverse operational contexts. Clustering algorithms, including K-means and DBSCAN, are employed to segment GPS data into distinct behavioral states. Feature engineering focuses on extracting motion signatures and spatial-temporal features that correlate with operational modes. Validation against manually annotated datasets demonstrates high accuracy in distinguishing idle, working, and transport phases. The
Maharana, Devi prasad, Gangsar, Purushottam, Dharmadhikari, Nitin, Pandey, Anand Kumar
Anti-Rollover Strategy for Six-Axis Semi-Trailer Based on Lateral Force Balance02-19-04-00242/24/2026
To address the rollover risk of six-axle semi-trailers due to their large mass, high center of gravity, and multi-axle articulation, a lateral force balance anti-rollover strategy based on the Ackermann steering principle is proposed. By establishing the wheel angle constraint equations for the full-wheel steering system of the six-axle semi-trailer, a rigid-body dynamic model considering the articulation characteristics is developed. The key control and observation parameters are included in the wheel angles, center of gravity lateral offset, yaw angular velocity, sideslip angle, and lateral load transfer rate. An SMC-PID joint controller is designed, in which the third axle steering angle of the tractor is optimized by the SMC controller, and the trailer’s three-axle steering angle tracking control is achieved by the PID controller. The nonlinear accumulation of centrifugal force and dynamic load transfer under high-speed emergency lane change conditions is suppressed by a
Zhang, Qiyuan, Zhang, Lei, Liao, Shengkun, Sun, Jinxu, He, Jing
Classification, Nomenclature, and Specification Definitions for Directional Drilling Tracking EquipmentJ2520_202602 (Current)2/18/2026
This SAE Standard applies to directional drilling electronics and tracking equipment of the following types: Tracking transmitter Tracking receiver Telemetry device Remote display This type of tracking equipment is typically used with horizontal earthboring machines as defined in SAE J2022.
MTC9, Trenching and Horizontal Earthboring Machines
Baggage/Cargo Trailer RequirementsARP1348B (Current)2/18/2026
This SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) applies to airline trailer equipment with four wheel running gear pulled and steered through an integral tow bar, for use on airport ramps and other airport areas for transporting baggage, freight, and other materials. This ARP can apply to any airline/airport trailer chassis regardless of its equipment; the trailer bed can be designed to carry either bulk baggage/cargo, or a cargo unit load device by means of a rollerized conveyor system, or a piece of aircraft servicing equipment (e.g., ground power unit, air start unit, etc.).
AGE-3 Aircraft Ground Support Equipment Committee
Telescopic Boom Length Indicating SystemJ1180_202602 (Current)2/12/2026
This SAE Recommended Practice applies to mobile cranes when used in lifting crane service that are equipped with boom length indicating devices.
Cranes and Lifting Devices Committee
Optimized Design, Analysis, and Validation of a Tractor Muffler for Enhanced Back-Pressure Control and Cost Efficiency2026-28-00042/12/2026
Internal combustion engines generate intense acoustic pulses during combustion, necessitating the use of exhaust mufflers to suppress noise emissions. With evolving regulations on permissible noise levels and the automotive industry's drive toward lightweight, high-performance vehicles, muffler designs must balance effective sound attenuation, minimal back pressure, and reduced mass. This study presents a comparative analysis of three muffler configurations serpentine, rectangular, and zigzag designed using Solid Works for a light commercial vehicle (LCV) diesel engine. The models were evaluated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to assess their acoustic and flow performance. Each design incorporated internal baffle arrangements to enhance sound absorption while aiming to minimize back pressure. The serpentine model featured a perforated baffle layout that promoted multiple reflections and dissipated acoustic energy more efficiently. Simulation results indicated that
Deepan Kumar, Sadhasivam, Palaniselvam, Senthil Kumar, D, Ashokkumar, R, Krishnamoorthy, Mahendran, M, Pasupuleti, Thejasree, G, Dhayanithi, L, Boopalan
Intelligent Steering System to Improve Fuel Efficiency in Heavy Duty Vehicles2026-28-01032/12/2026
In commercial vehicles, conventional engine-driven hydraulic steering systems result in continuous energy consumption, contributing to parasitic losses and reduced overall powertrain efficiency. This study introduces an Electric Powered Hydraulic Steering (EPHS) system that decouples steering actuation from the engine and operates only on demand, thereby optimizing energy usage. Field trials conducted under loaded conditions demonstrated a 3–6% improvement in fuel economy, confirming the system’s effectiveness in real-world applications. A MATLAB-based simulation model was developed to replicate dynamic steering loads and vehicle operating conditions, with results closely aligning with field data, thereby validating the model’s predictive accuracy. The reduction in fuel consumption directly translates to lower CO₂ emissions, supporting regulatory compliance and sustainability goals, particularly in the context of tightening emission norms for commercial fleets. These findings position
T, Aravind Muthu Suthan, Mani, Kishore, Ayyappan, Rakshna, D, Senthil Kumar, S, Mathankumar
Genetic Algorithm Based Optimization of Chaboche Kinematic Hardening Parameters along with the Validation of FE Model through Characterized Crack Initiation2026-28-00862/12/2026
In the context of electro-mobility for commercial vehicles, the failure analysis of a connector panel in a DCDC converter is crucial, particularly regarding crack initiation at the interface of busbar and plastic component. This analysis requires a thorough understanding of thermo-mechanical behavior under thermal cyclic loads, necessitating kinematic hardening material modeling to account for the Bauschinger effect. As low cycle fatigue (LCF) test data is not available for glass fiber reinforced polyamide based thermoplastic composite (PA66GF), we have adopted a novel approach of determining non-linear Chaboche Non-Linear Kinematic Hardening (NLK) model parameters from monotonic uniaxial temperature dependent tensile test data of PA66GF. In this proposed work a detailed discussion has been presented on manual calibration and Genetic Algorithm (GA) based optimization of Chaboche parameters. Due to lack of fiber orientation dependent test data for PA66GF, here von Mises yield criteria
Basu, Parichay, Srinivasappa, Naveen
Miner’s Safety Bot: An ESP32-Based Autonomous Mobile Mine Safety Monitoring System2026-28-01162/12/2026
Mining operations are important to industrial growth, but they expose the mining workers to risk including hazardous gases, elevated ambient temperatures, and dynamic structural instabilities within underground environments. Safety systems in the past, typically based on fixed sensor networks or manual patrols, fall short in accurate hazard detection amidst shifting mine conditions. The proposed project Miner's Safety Bot advanced this paradigm by leveraging an ESP 32 microcontroller as a mobile platform that integrates gas sensing, thermal monitoring, visual inspection and autonomous obstacle avoidance. The system incorporates MQ7 semiconductor gas sensor to monitor real time carbon monoxide (CO), offering detection range from 5 to 2000 ppm with accuracy of 5 ppm. Temperature and humidity are monitored through DHT11 digital sensor, calibrated to ensure reliability across the harsh microclimates in mines. Navigation and autonomous movement are enabled by Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04
D, Suchitra, D, Anitha, Muthukumaran, Balasubramaniam, Mohanraj, Siddharth, Subash Chandra Bose, Rohan
Systematic Approach to Attenuate NVH Issues in Hydraulic Steering Gear2026-28-00652/12/2026
In commercial vehicles, Hydraulic Power Assisted Steering (HPAS) gear plays a crucial role in enhancing steering performance by providing hydraulic assistance. The HPAS gear comprises a Directional Control Valve (DCV) assembly, where the input shaft and recirculation units are integrated. The valve system which is known for the heart of the HPAS gear, operates under high-pressure conditions. In the DCV, the input shaft is equipped with bearings to support side loads exerted by the system, and a valve component is freely assembled to minimize friction caused by these side loads. The complexity of the floating valve design results in the less slot volume, leading to cavitation and vibrational noise. While this noise is typically suppressed in internal combustion (IC) engine-powered vehicles, its implementation in electric vehicles (EVs) has led to pronounced audible noise, dominating the system. Experimental vibration analysis of the steering gear reveals both low and high-frequency
Vijayenthran, Praveen, Ayyappan, Rakshna, D, Senthil Kumar, N, Prabhakar
SAE Truck & Off-Highway Engineering: February 202626TOFHP022/12/2026
AI influence on ICE design Experts offer their outlook on the future of heavy-duty internal combustion engines, and of course artificial intelligence will play a role. Accelerating down the road to autonomy Commercial success of the autonomous truck may be closer than we think. Digital tech a Las Vegas headliner With the rise of AI and other new digital technologies on the horizon, ACT Expo 2026 will be a crucial intersection for industry leaders to map out the route ahead. Editorial CONEXPO debuts - from micro to massive Rolls-Royce pursues pure methanol for marine engines Integrated architectures reshape the mobile-hydraulic ecosystem A proactive approach to hydraulic health in Class 8 trucks Precast concrete bases pave the way for rapid EV charger deployment CONEXPO 2026: Volvo CE to reveal new articulated hauler and short-swing, compact and wheeled excavators Product Briefs SPOTLIGHTS: Imaging/Cameras; Simulation/Analysis Software Q&A Bosch Rexroth: Hydraulics remain relevant in
Structural Redesign and Functional Integration of an Electrohydraulic Brake Valve for Enhanced Performance and Manufacturability2026-28-00022/12/2026
The Electrohydraulic Brake Valve (EBV) is a vital component in full-power brake systems for heavy-duty and off-highway vehicles, providing precise hydraulic pressure modulation through electrical control. Traditionally, EBV housings are manufactured using bar-machined components, which offer durability but contribute significantly to the overall weight and cost of the assembly. In response to increasing demands for lightweight and cost-effective solutions, this study presents a targeted design optimization of the EBV housing. The redesigned housing adopts a casting-based geometry, integrates sensor ports for pressure monitoring, and includes a nameplate mounting provision for customer identification. Material substitution and structural simplification were employed to enhance manufacturability and performance. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was used to validate the mechanical integrity of the new design under operational conditions. The optimized EBV assembly achieved a weight reduction
R, Thangarajan
A Study in System Design and Plumbing Selection Impacts no Steering System Noise in Medium- and Heavy-Duty Commercial Vehicle Hydraulic Steering Systems02-19-04-00222/5/2026
This study investigates noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) characteristics of hydraulic steering systems in medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles due to hydraulic system design. Utilizing on-vehicle and lab environment testing, primarily a pressure sweep test and speed sweep test, to identify sources of NVH. Testing demonstrated a significant impact to perceptible noise and vibration through changes to system and component design. NVH mitigation is accomplished by reducing pressure pulsations, cavitation, and turbulence within the fluid by changing hydraulic plumbing diameter. Reduction in sound pressure level (SPL) averaged 30% with peak reduction of 75%. While optimizing hose diameter is an effective method for controlling NVH in commercial vehicle hydraulic steering systems, additional studies should be conducted in optimizing plumbing materials and routing.
Bari, Praful Rajendra, Kintner, Jason
EDITORIAL: CONEXPO debuts - from micro to massive26TOFHP02_042/1/2026
Visitors to Las Vegas are down. According to a year-to-date summary released by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, the number of people who visited the desert city through November 2025 was down 7.4% compared to 2024. Convention attendance was also lower in 2025 compared to the previous year. Many outlets report that a big reason for the drop is fewer international tourists - particularly from Canada - due to U.S. trade policies. The word from some fellow journalists who attended CES in early January is that this trend is continuing into 2026. Jack Roberts of Heavy-Duty Trucking wrote, “I've never seen the city as empty and listless as it was during my time there this year… And the show floor at CES - while still crowded - was noticeably less jam-packed than past years.”
Gehm, Ryan
Q&A26TOFHP02_112/1/2026
The advanced construction equipment packing the convention center halls and surrounding lots will understandably be the stars of the triennial CONEXPO trade show, taking place March 3-7 in Las Vegas. But the latest technologies in fluid power and motion control that help those machines operate efficiently will also command attention from showgoers. The Bosch Rexroth mobile hydraulics team will be on-site in a joint booth with partner HydraForce (Booth S80245), showcasing their current product portfolio. Rafael Cardoso, Bosch Rexroth engineering manager, mobile systems and software, expects to have conversations about advanced control and automation, “focused on the demand for smarter, software-driven control strategies that enhance precision, productivity, downtime reduction and operator assistance features.”
Gehm, Ryan
Guidelines and Procedures for Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Machine Tracking Equipment OperatorsJ2519_202601 (Current)2/1/2026
These general guidelines and precautions apply to personnel operating directional drilling tracking equipment when used with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) machines as defined in ISO 21467:2023.
MTC9, Trenching and Horizontal Earthboring Machines
Integrated architectures reshape the mobile-hydraulic ecosystem26TOFHP02_062/1/2026
Off-highway equipment operates in an environment defined by extremes - extreme loads, extreme duty cycles, extreme temperatures and extreme expectations. OEMs and fleet operators face mounting pressure to deliver more power, more uptime and more precision from platforms that are becoming increasingly compact, intelligent and complex. Whether the task is hauling, lifting, dumping, clearing or moving materials, the equipment must deliver consistent, reliable performance without compromise. This pressure is reshaping the mobile-hydraulic ecosystem. The industry is steadily shifting away from piecemeal systems and toward integrated, intelligent power architectures that maximize efficiency across the entire vehicle. Leaders in this space, Eaton among them, demonstrate how a system-level approach to PTOs, hydraulic pumps and control valves is enabling a new generation of off-highway innovation.
Bogdan, Corneliu
Digital tech a Las Vegas headliner26TOFHP02_032/1/2026
With the rise of AI and other new digital technologies on the horizon, ACT Expo 2026 will be a crucial intersection for industry leaders to map out the route ahead. Since 2011, ACT Expo has served as a meeting point of technology and business discussions for the commercial vehicle industry. The 2026 show in Las Vegas (www.actexpo.com) is shaping up to be another important waypoint for the industry as it continues to grapple with new technologies, regulations and other significant challenges. This year's agenda program builds on ACT Expo's long-established emphasis on clean transportation and places an increased focus on the digital frontier, including AI, autonomy, connectivity and software-defined vehicles. Truck & Off-Highway Enginering interviewed Erik Neandross, president of the Clean Transportation Solutions group at TRC, about what topics are emerging as the main trends heading into 2026 and what he thinks will be some of the most important themes of the upcoming convention.
Wolfe, Matt
Comparative Study of EV Transmission Performance Used in Various Vehicle Segments2026-26-05841/16/2026
The transition to electric mobility has accelerated the evolution of drivetrain technologies, particularly in the design and performance of electric vehicle (EV) transmissions. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EVs utilize simpler yet diverse transmission systems cater to specific performance, efficiency, and application requirements. The growing adoption of electric vehicles across diverse transportation sectors has intensified the need for optimized electric transmission systems as per vehicle requirements. This research presents a comparative study of electric transmission performance across various vehicle segments, including Passenger Cars, Small commercial Vehicle, Commercial three-wheelers and All-terrain vehicles. The study evaluates different transmission configurations namely single-speed and multi-speed, based on key performance metrics such as Drag loss and Efficiency. Through a combination of literature review, and performance benchmarking, the
Jain, Sankalp, P, Ekhesh
Performance Optimization of 2 Cylinder Flex Fuel Engine for Small Commercial Vehicle – A STEP TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY2026-26-01191/16/2026
Increasing ethanol blending in gasoline is significant from both financial (reducing dependency on crude oil) and sustainability (overall CO2 reduction) points of view. Flex Fuel is an ethanol-gasoline blend containing ethanol ranging from 20% to 85%. Flex Fuel emerges as an exceptionally advantageous solution, adeptly addressing the shortcomings associated with both gasoline and ethanol. Performance optimization of Flex Fuel is a major challenge as fuel properties like knocking tendency, calorific value, vapour pressure, latent heat, and stoichiometric air-fuel ratio change with varying ethanol content. This paper elaborates on the experimental results of trials conducted for optimizing engine performance with Flex Fuel for a 2-cylinder engine used in a small commercial vehicle. To derive maximum benefit from the higher octane rating of E85, the compression ratio is increased, while ignition timing is optimized to avoid knocking with E20 fuel. For intermediate blends, ignition timing
Kulkarni, Deepak, Malekar, Hemant A, Upadhyay, Rajdip, Katkar, Santosh, Undre, Shrikant
Electroluminescent Coating Systems for Heavy-Duty Trucks: Advancing Safety and Sustainability through Smart Surface Technology2026-26-02751/16/2026
As the transportation industry pivots towards safer and more sustainable mobility solutions, the role of advanced surface technologies is becoming increasingly critical. This paper presents a novel application of electroluminescent (EL) coating systems in heavy-duty trucks, exploring their potential to enhance vehicular safety and reduce environmental impact through lightweight, energy-efficient lighting integration. Electroluminescent coatings, capable of emitting light uniformly across painted surfaces when electrically activated, offer a transformative alternative to conventional external lighting and reflective materials. In the context of heavy-duty trucks, these systems can significantly improve visibility under low-light and adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the risk of road accidents. Furthermore, the uniform illumination achieved without bulky fixtures contributes to aerodynamic efficiency, supporting fuel economy and reducing carbon emissions. use of this coating
Harel, Samarth Dattatraya, Borse, Manoj, L, Kavya
Intelligent Sequential Charging Control via Fleet-Managed Cloud System2026-26-02071/16/2026
Electric Vehicles (EV) are increasingly becoming more and more popular in the markets, especially in the commercial vehicle segments. Amidst this, the need to find new elegant methods to perform charging of EV battery becomes extremely crucial. In areas with high demand and limited power capacity, performing charging for multiple vehicles necessitates efficient usage of charging infrastructure, which can’t be guaranteed by the traditional charging methods. Sequential charging is a new state of art technique for managing the charging of multiple EV’s simultaneously connected to a single charging station. Rather than dividing the available power equally among all connected vehicles or charging them one at a time, this technique dynamically allocates power based on various factors such as charging priority, vehicle needs and available infrastructure capacity. Currently, sequential charging can only be implemented by a particular set of chargers that are interconnected via backend and
De, Abir, Bhattacharya, Ullash, Parihar, Aakash
Experimental Evaluation of HCV Cooling Module Assembly Using 7-Actuator Multiaxial Vibration Testing2026-26-05301/16/2026
This paper presents an innovative in-lab accelerated testing approach for chassis-mounted components, with a particular focus on the cooling module of commercial vehicles. The proposed method simulates real-time data acquired from field operations and replicates all critical chassis modes, including torsion. Additionally, real-time coolant circulation at specified pressure and temperature maintenance are feasible during durability testing, enhancing the realism of the test environment. The cooling modules, comprising the radiator, intercooler, and charge air cooler (CAC), often experience failures due to various multi-axial inputs and chassis modes. This paper introduces an innovative methodology for replicating field conditions in the lab, utilizing seven servo-hydraulic actuators to simulate multi-axial inputs. The accuracy of in-lab simulation for the acceleration levels at input and response locations of the cooling module exceeds 90%. This makes it a preferred choice for test
V Dhage, Yogesh, Satale, Sunil
Low Idle Boom Noise Reduction on Light Weight Agricultural Cabin Tractor2026-26-01001/16/2026
In last two decades, Farm customer expectation on cabin comfort has been increased multifold. To provide the best-in-class customer experience in terms of comfort without adding cost and weight is bigger challenge for all NVH Engineers. It is evident from literature survey that cabin tractors with better comfort is well accepted by customers in US and European Market. Apart from engine excitation, customer has become more sensitive to customer-actuated-accessory noises due to overall reduction in cabin noise in last 2 decades. This paper presents the study conducted on HVAC blower noise in 30HP cabin tractor. Tactile vibrations and cabin noise is not acceptable when AC is switched on due to low frequency modulating nature in frequency range of ~65Hz and 130Hz. The investigation is carried out systematically considering each component of Source-Path-Receiver model. HVAC blower unit as source is diagnosed in detail to understand root cause. Strong dominance of first order of blower been
K, Somasundaram, Chavan, Amit
Early Prediction of CNG Filling Time Using Artificial Intelligence for Design Optimization2026-26-06621/16/2026
Over the past few decades, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) has gained popularity as an alternative fuel due to its lower operating cost compared to gasoline and diesel, for both passenger and commercial vehicles. In addition, it is considered more environmentally friendly and safer than traditional fossil fuels. Natural gas's density (0.7–0.9 kg/m3) is substantially less than that of gasoline (715–780 kg/m3) and diesel (849–959 kg/m3) at standard temperature and pressure. Consequently, CNG needs more storage space. To compensate for its low natural density, CNG is compressed and stored at high pressures (usually 200-250 bar) in on-board cylinders. This results in an effective fuel density of 180 kg/m3 at 200 bar and 215 kg/m3 at 250 bar. This compression allows more fuel to be stored, extending the vehicle's operating range per fill and minimising the need for refuelling. Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs), particularly those in the commercial sector like buses and lorries, need numerous CNG
Choudhary, Aditya Kant, Petale, Mahendra, Dutta, Surabhi, Bagul, Mithilesh
EMC Regulations of Construction Equipment Vehicles in India: Challenges and Solutions2026-26-01461/16/2026
Requirement for Construction Equipment Vehicles (CEVs) in India is continuously growing as India being fastest growing country in the world in terms of Infrastructure. The technology in the automotive industry is evolving rapidly in recent times. Thus, with the development of new technologies, the challenges are also ever-increasing from an Electromagnetic Interference, Susceptibility (EMI/EMC) and Safety perspective. Recently CEVs include various types of machines including Compactor, Wheel Loader, Crane, Paver, Truck Crane, Cement Mixer etc. EMC requirements of all these types are internationally governed by ISO 13766-1, 2. This paper provides insights about various considerations to be taken during EMC Tests of each type of machines. It also includes guidelines related to antenna positioning, reference point calculations, Narrow Band and Broad band considerations. It will also provide general EMC guidelines and precautions related to component selection and placement along with
Yeola, Mayur, Shinde, Avinash
Thermal Management and Engine Calibration Strategies for Enhanced Passive DPF Regeneration in CEV Stage V CI Engines2026-26-01411/16/2026
Meeting the stringent emissions norms of CEV stage V for medium BMEP engines, CI engines present significant challenges. These stringent norms call for a highly efficient DPF. With the increasing demands for high-performance DPFs, the issue of soot accumulation and cleaning presents significant hurdles for DPF longevity. This paper explores the potential of passive DPF regeneration, which leverages naturally occurring exhaust gas conditions to oxidize accumulated soot, offering a promising approach to minimize fuel penalty and system complexity compared to active regeneration methods. The study investigates engine calibration techniques aimed at enhancing passive regeneration performance, emphasizing the optimization of thermal management strategies to sustain DPF temperatures within the passive regeneration range. Furthermore, the paper aims to expand the applicability of passive regeneration across diverse engine loads common in off-highway applications with effective passive
Saxena, Harshit, Gandhi, Naresh, Lokare, Prasad, Shinde, Prashant, Patil, Ajit, Raut, Ashish
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