Browse Topic: Off-highway vehicles and equipment

Items (753)
Find
Efficiency Modeling, Experimental Validation, and Machine Learning-Assisted Model Calibration of a Two-Speed E-Drive Transmission for Construction Equipment02-19-03-00197/27/2026
This study details the development and experimental validation of a high-fidelity one-dimensional (1D) simulation model for a two-speed transmission designed for off-road vehicles, such as tractors and backhoe loaders used in agricultural and civil engineering applications. The model, implemented in the AMESim platform from Siemens, integrates physics-based loss sub-models for all major components, including gears, bearings, seals, and fluid drag (churning) losses. After development, the model was rigorously validated against test bench data, with efficiency measurements taken across various speed, torque, and oil level combinations, demonstrating a strong correlation with experimental results. A detailed analysis enabled the quantification of the contribution of each loss mechanism, identifying the countershaft gears and input shaft bearings as the primary contributors. Furthermore, a Machine Learning (ML)–based calibration framework, employing Bayesian Optimization, was implemented to reduce discrepancies between simulation and experiment and to generate a synthetic dataset for the creation of fast-executing surrogate models. The study concludes that the proposed methodology constitutes an effective tool for efficiency analysis and optimization during early design stages, establishing a foundation for future integration with ML techniques and the development of digital twins.
Ferreira, Tiago Simao, Fallahi, Farzad, Kedziora, Slawomir, Hichri, Bassem, Kiefer, Jean-Daniel
R134a and R1234yf Refrigerant Charge Determination Test MethodJ3023_202607 (Current)7/13/2026
The purpose of this document is to establish guidelines for determining the critical R134a and R1234yf refrigerant charge for off-road, self-propelled work machines as defined in SAE J1116 and agricultural tractors as defined in ANSI/ASAE S390. It will develop a minimum to maximum refrigerant charge range in which the HVAC system can maintain proper operation. Operating conditions and characteristics of the equipment will influence the optimum charge. Since these conditions and characteristics vary greatly from one application to another, careful consideration should be taken to determine the optimum R134a and R1234yf refrigerant charge for the HVAC system.
HFTC6, Operator Accommodation
SAE TOMORROW TODAY - What Baja SAE Teaches That College Can?t135746/26/2026
What does it really take to engineer under pressure? From mud-soaked vehicles and broken suspensions to team dynamics and split-second decisions, Baja SAE has become a proving ground for the next generation of engineering leaders. By challenging engineering students to design, build, and race single-seat off-road vehicles capable of surviving extreme terrain, Baja SAE requires every team to use the same 14 hp Kohler engine -- creating an even playing field and putting the focus on innovation, durability, and teamwork. Listen in as Honda's Adam Hussemann and TTX Company's Jason Rounds pull back the curtain on the intense, unpredictable world of Baja SAE competitions and how they prepare students for careers in manufacturing, mobility, and beyond. After hearing this conversation, you'll understand why more and more companies value Baja experience just as much as a perfect GPA. We'd love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don't forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today--a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen--and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform. Follow SAE on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube. Follow host Grayson Brulte on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.
Patterson, Lori
SAE Truck & Off-Highway Engineering: June 202626TOFHP066/11/2026
Hitting the road in the all-new VNR Volvo Trucks' revised VNR brings updated safety tech, improved fuel economy and driver comfort features to the regional haul segment. In fuel control How to ensure off-highway combustion systems operate with sufficient control to meet tightening emissions standards and evolving fuel landscapes without sacrificing reliability. Keeping industrial vehicles secure in a digital landscape OEMs, integrators and suppliers must continuously process, assess and identify platform vulnerabilities to prioritize and implement updates that protect systems from cyberattacks and data breaches. Editorial Diversification key for sustainable fleets ACT 2026: Uncertainty still exists over EPA 2027 NOx limit ZF bets big on hybrid transmissions Moog simplifies off-highway electrification Bosch shows off its first U.S. electrolyzer Microvision fast-tracks adoption of Luminar tech; eyes defense, industrial sectors Future-ready, customizable connectivity powers precision agriculture Kenworth's new C580 clocks in for work Harbinger extends its range of medium-duty EVs Kubota's SVL110-3 brings new tech and service features to CTL segment Product Briefs SPOTLIGHTS: Diesel Engines & Subsystems; Manufacturing Tools & Materials; Motors, Inverters & Gearboxes Q&A Volvo turns attention to vocational trucks
Heavy-Duty Nonroad Material Handler Electrification Part 1: Real-World Drive Cycle Development02-19-03-00156/10/2026
Knowing a detailed operating cycle is critical for developing and testing equipment. Operating cycles can be separated by two clear distinctions: (1) regulatory or non-regulatory and (2) application at the engine-only or full machine level. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Nonroad Transient Cycle (NRTC) may be a good representation of engine use in many types of equipment, but there is a gap in standardized and validated drive cycles specifically for nonroad material handlers. Lacking a standardized drive cycle makes it difficult to accurately benchmark machine performance and validate new powertrain technologies. The objective of this investigation is to illustrate the development of a custom drive cycle augmented with real-world customer use data that serves multiple purposes: (1) understand the range of operation and utilization that formulated inputs for electrified architecture analysis and (2) develop a repetitive and consistent maneuver to establish baseline energy consumption enabling equivalent comparison to future electrified prototype builds. This article presents a solution specifically for a 23-ton nonroad material handler in which material handling, machine transport, and extended idle were homologated to form representative short cycles defined by machine velocity and hydraulic cylinder position. The most intensive material handling short cycles had a load factor of 40% and an average fuel rate of 16 L/h. Combined with a visual aid, the short cycles exhibited low variability, having less than 5% root mean square (RMS) error in lift and reach position with respect to the average. The machine’s performance on these short cycles at the Advanced Power Systems Research Center (APSRC) was compared to results from two real-world customer locations operating the instrumented test machine in a cyclical manner, and for similar ground conditions were found to be comparable in fuel consumption.
Czarnecki, Alexander, Goodenough, Bryant, Worm, Jeremy, Robinette, Darrell, LaTendresse, Phil, Westman, John
Heavy-Duty Nonroad Material Handler Electrification Part 2: Energy Efficiency and Performance Evaluation02-19-03-00166/2/2026
Decarbonization efforts achieved through electrification in nonroad mobile machinery can realize a reduction in fuel consumption of more than 20%, thanks to concepts familiar to light-duty passenger vehicles. This case study compares the results of a hybrid-electric material handler to its conventional counterpart, utilizing machine-specific drive cycles presented in part one of this paper series. The hybrid prototype features an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrain that demonstrated substantial energy efficiency improvements. Specifically, there was a reduction in equivalent fuel consumption of 75% when operating in electric-only mode, and 33% when maintaining the battery by charging with an on-board generator. Together, the efficiency improvements can be extrapolated over a low-intensity, 8-h shift characterized by significant idle time and highly dynamic engine load for a 47% reduction in net energy consumption. Key technologies that led to this improvement included engine downsizing and decoupling, regenerative braking, and an electrohydraulic pump unit with advanced controls. This study explains details of the powertrain architecture and subsystems that were implemented on a demonstration vehicle, control strategies used to meet project goals, and an analysis of energy consumption from testing on a closed course. Also included in this study is a discourse on comparison metrics that can be used for quantifying the energy consumption differences between hybrid-electric and conventional diesel powertrains in nonroad mobile machinery.
Czarnecki, Alexander, Goodenough, Bryant, Worm, Jeremy, Robinette, Darrell, LaTendresse, Phil, Westman, John, Subert, David, Heath, Matthew, Kiefer, Dylan, Black, Andrew
IN FUEL CONTROL26TOFHP06_026/1/2026
How to ensure off-highway combustion systems operate with sufficient control to meet tightening emissions standards and evolving fuel landscapes without sacrificing reliability. Off-highway equipment is being asked to do more with less. Less margin for emissions, less tolerance for downtime and less room for inefficiency, while operating under some of the most demanding duty cycles in the transport sector. Tier 4 and Tier 5 emissions standards have reshaped engine calibration strategies. Renewable diesel and biodiesel blends are entering worksites and farms at scale. At the same time, construction, mining and agricultural machines are expected to run for 20-25 years, often at sustained high load and far from service infrastructure. In this environment, combustion systems are far from being phased out.
Anderson, Todd
Kenworth's new C580 clocks in for work26TOFHP06_116/1/2026
Kenworth's new C580 vocational truck made its debut at CONEXPO 2026. The C580 is the replacement for the long-serving C500 and aims to build on that truck's legacy thanks to new tech, more muscle and improved interior amenities. According to Kenworth, the C580 rides on the C500 platform, but has been endowed with Kenworth's latest cab, which brings modern comfort and technology features. Truck & Off-Highway Engineering was in attendance for Kenworth's introductory press conference for the C580 in Las Vegas.
Wolfe, Matt
Moog simplifies off-highway electrification26TOFHP06_076/1/2026
Moog Inc. introduced its new adaptive electrification management system (AEMS) at a press conference during CONEXPO 2026 in Las Vegas. Moog states that this system offers a path to electrify, automate and digitalize construction machinery more efficiently and cost-effectively. “End users in the off-highway market are demanding that their machines have higher productivity and a lower total cost of ownership,” said Dr. Nate Keller, Moog strategic business manager. “OEMs are working to solve this problem, and one of the particular ways is through electrification.”
Wolfe, Matt
First Drive: 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness26AUTD05_155/1/2026
The transformation of the Subaru Outback from wagon to SUV is complete. While the wagon was a perfectly capable off-road machine, the new Outback gets a boxier exterior (possibly an homage to the boxer engine) and Wilderness-trim level-first platform upgrade. During a recent drive program in Northern California, I had the opportunity to test the increased capability of the vehicle firsthand.
Baldwin, Roberto
TOC99-08-02-0TOC4/13/2026
TOC
Tobolski, Sue
Integrated DBSCAN-Based Segmentation of Tractor Activity into Productive and Non-Productive States from GPS Data2026-01-01694/7/2026
Accurate identification of Productive and Non-Productive States or tractor duty cycles—comprising working, idle, and transport states—is critical for performance analysis, fuel optimization, and emissions modeling in agriculture machinery and fleet monitoring. This study explores the application of integrated unsupervised machine learning (ML) 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 several labeled engine and vehicle parameters, making it scalable and adaptable across diverse operational contexts. Clustering algorithm DBSCAN (Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise) in integration with hybrid rule-based and a road feature is 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. Furthermore, the present study demonstrates that by accurately determining the operational status of the tractor, unnecessary idling can be prevented through an idle avoidance system. Additionally, after assessing transport and working conditions, a movement-based control system for tire pressure adjustment is proposed. Both strategies have the potential to reduce fuel consumption by approximately 5-7%; however, this lies outside the scope of the present work. The framework offers a robust, data-driven solution for duty cycle monitoring and can be integrated into telematics systems for predictive maintenance and operational efficiency of the tractors.
Maharana, Devi prasad, Gangsar, Purushottam, Dharmadhikari, Nitin, Pandey, Anand Kumar
Backward Fuzzy Driving Control for 6×4 Off-Road Vehicles2026-01-01484/7/2026
Off-road 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 6×4 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 6×4 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 6×4 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 cost and is robust to terrain changes, wheel slip, and actuator lag. To accomplish this, the controller coevolves with the vehicle design parameters, making this an effective co-design strategy. The vehicle design constraints are embedded into the controller through constraint-aware membership functions and rule tuning, reducing the need for terrain-specific calibration. The architecture is modular and scalable across numerous similar platforms, supporting rapid reconfiguration and vehicle design exploration for future autonomous off-road vehicles such as those used in expeditionary environments.
Dekhterman, Samuel R., Sreenivas, Ramavarapu S., Norris, William R., Patterson, Albert E., Soylemezoglu, Ahmet, Nottage, Dustin
Methodology for Generating Off-Road Tracks for Powertrain Simulation of Off-Road Passenger Vehicles2026-01-02754/7/2026
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 over-dimensioning and high powertrain costs. The torque requirements must be defined in the very early stages of development, when real-world measurements are not available. As a result, these definitions must be based on simulation. This paper presents a simulation approach to address this engineering challenge. A key aspect is the modeling of the representative off-road track as input for the simulation. A method of track generation was developed by using real vehicle measurement data from off-road tracks, combined with GPS and road information. The virtual track modelling process was designed to match the overall torque behavior observed in both simulation and measurement to confirm a validated and trustful simulation approach. The validation of the approach will be shown.
Martin, Michael, Winkelheide, Jonas, Hartmann, Lukas, Sturm, Axel, Henze, Roman
A Novel Power-Split Hybrid Electric Architecture for Off-Road Tracked Vehicles: Design and Performance Evaluation2026-01-02584/7/2026
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 missions. Beyond efficiency, the proposed architecture offers packaging and robustness advantages: compared with the P2 parallel it eliminates transmission and steering hydraulics, yielding a more compact driveline and compared with the series hybrid it enables smaller traction motors and a smaller battery pack for the same missions. Finally, by allowing the machines to operate below base speed for longer, it extends burst-mode operation without sustained field weakening, thereby reducing demagnetization risk. Study analyzes the reason behind these trends and discusses packaging considerations.
Ghate, Atharva, Sundar, Anirudh, Zhu, Qilun, Prucka, Robert, Figueroa-Santos, Miriam, Barron, Morgan, Castanier, Matthew P.
Optimizing Custom Hybrid Solutions for Low-Volume Specialist Equipment2026-01-04794/7/2026
Off-road vehicles are typically powered by diesel engines, sized to cover the highest peak loads in their dutycycles. Such applications can be designed with downsized engines, using hybridization to supplement engine power with electrical power for short periods. However, many applications are low-volume and specialized, making it impractical to deploy heavy engineering resources to optimize each 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, and addresses the lack of accessible software tools for evaluating such opportunities. Analysis is applied with a fast, low-cost, Concept-based software tool named “ePOP Concept”, suited to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) who seek to provide custom low-volume vehicles. It allows many different powertrain architectures to be evaluated rapidly at the product planning stage, and can be quickly set up and used by non-specialists in simulation. Agricultural load cases are analyzed, showing the benefits of adding hybridization through electric motors and stored energy, supplementing engine power for demand peaks to enable engine downsizing. Use cases for four Fendt diesel tractors were taken from a dataset generated by Götz et al, at the agricultural facilities of the Technical University of Munich, which has been made publicly available by the authors to address the absence of standard load cycle data for the analysis of tractor electrification. The results show benefits for a customizable hybridization architecture to accommodate specific use cases, and the benefits of quick, accessible analysis methods for small engineering teams, to support early product decisions and what-if analyses.
De Salis, Rupert, Fons, Daniel
Impact of Hydrogen on Methane and Pollutant Emissions over Three-Way Catalysts with Natural Gas–Hydrogen Blends2026-01-03574/7/2026
Blending natural gas (NG) with hydrogen (H₂) can improve combustion and engine performance while potentially facilitating 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 and other pollutants. Experiments were conducted with both degreened and aged catalysts under controlled conditions, systematically varying temperature, the air-to-fuel equivalence ratio (λ), and λ modulation. Test conditions covered λ values from 0.996 to 1.000 to represent nominally stoichiometric engine operation with different λ modulation amplitudes, as well as a range of temperatures to inform control strategies for effective CH₄, CO, and NOₓ reduction. Overall, the results show that hydrogen addition significantly improves the conversion efficiency of CH₄ and NOₓ, particularly at temperatures below 500 °C. More significantly, this study highlights that exhaust gas composition, operating temperature, λ management, and the oxygen storage capacity of the TWC all play major roles in affecting the tailpipe emissions from NG and NG+H₂ combustion.
Prikhodko, Vitaly, Wang, Min, Park, Yeonshil, Chen, Hai-Ying, Pihl, Josh
Safety Monitor for Off-Road Planning with Uncertainty Bounded Bekker Costs2026-01-01414/7/2026
Reliable off-road autonomy requires operational constraints so that behavior stays predictable and safe when soil strength is uncertain. This paper presents a runtime assurance safety monitor that collaborates with any planner and uses a Bekker-based cost model with bounded uncertainty. The monitor builds an upper confidence traversal cost from a lightweight pressure sinkage model identified in field tests and checks each planned motion against two limits: maximum sinkage and rollover margin. If the risk of crossing either limit is too high, the monitor switches to a certified fallback that reduces vehicle speed, increases standoff from soft ground, or stops on firmer soil. This separation lets the planner focus on efficiency while the monitor keeps the vehicle within clear safety limits on board. Wheel geometry, wheel load estimate, and a soil raster serve as inputs, which tie safety directly to vehicle design and let the monitor set clear limits on speed, curvature, and stopping at run time. The method carries uncertainty analytically into the upper confidence cost and applies simple intervention rules. Tuning of the sinkage limit, rollover margin, and risk window trades efficiency for caution while keeping the monitor light enough for embedded processors. Results from a simulation environment spanning loam to sand include intervention rates, violation probability, and path efficiency relative to the nominal plan, and a benchtop static loading check provides initial empirical validation.
Naik, Akshay, Norris, William, Sreenivas, Ramavarapu S., Soylemezoglu, Ahmet, Nottage, Dustin S., Patterson, Albert
Vault-Induced Pitchover Crash Testing of a Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle (ROV)2026-01-05464/7/2026
Vehicle pitchover crashes can result in very severe accelerations and forces. Literature and test data available on pitchover crashes is sparse. This paper presents the results of a full-scale pitchover/rollover crash test using an instrumented vehicle in a controlled and documented off-road environment. The test vehicle was driven to the launch point by an off-board operator using remote steering and throttle controls. The test vehicle then experienced an airborne phase during which forward pitching occurred, followed by a front-to-ground impact which induced additional pitchover motion. Then, following the initial front and rear impacts, the vehicle transitioned from a pitchover to rollover motion before coming to rest. The resulting vehicle motion, vehicle damage markings, and ground markings were documented with various slow motion and real time camera views. The test vehicle was instrumented with accelerometers, rotation rate sensors, and other sensors, the results of which provide useful correlation with previously published test data. PC-Crash version 15.0.0.4a was used to analyze the pitchover test, and comparisons are derived between the real-world test and the motion calculated in the computer simulation. The PC-Crash program predicted launch speed to within 6% of the actual crash test. The results are useful for analysis and reconstruction of similar pitchover crashes.
Warner, Mark, Warner, Wyatt, Swensen, Grant, Perl, Mark
PRECISE FIT26AUTP04_024/1/2026
Why precision engineering is defining confidence in next-generation internal combustion engines. In 2026, the global transport industry, and particularly the automotive industry, finds itself under competing pressures. Regulators are tightening emissions standards, with new regulations such as the EU's Euro 7 being proposed to reduce air pollution in line with net-zero ambitions. Fleet operators are managing ever-aging vehicle populations in uncertain economic conditions, and policymakers are accelerating mandates for sustainable fuels, with countries like the UK moving forward with a Zero Emission Vehicle mandate by 2035. Across passenger vehicles, commercial transport, and off-highway machinery, engineers are now tasked with delivering measurable carbon reduction using a combination of electrification, advanced internal combustion engines (ICE) and fuel innovation without compromising safety, durability or performance.
Anderson, Todd
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
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 of approximately 60% and a cost reduction of nearly 25%, demonstrating the effectiveness of design-led innovation in improving manufacturability.
R, Thangarajan
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 software-defined future
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
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
A Complex Road Surface Parameter Estimation Method Based on the Fusion Framework of Visual Classifier and Dynamics Observer10-10-02-00131/16/2026
Special vehicles such as off-road vehicles and planetary rovers frequently operate on complex, unpaved road surfaces with varying mechanical parameters. Inaccurate estimation of these parameters can cause subsidence or rollover. Existing methods either lack proactive perception or high precision. This article proposes a fusion framework integrating a visual classifier and a dynamics observer for stable, accurate estimation of road surface parameters. The visual classifier uses an adaptive segmentation system for unpaved roads, leveraging a large-scale vision model and a lightweight network to classify upcoming road surfaces. The dynamics observer employs an online wheel-–ground interaction model using stress approximation, integrating strong tracking theory into an unscented Kalman filter for real-time parameter estimation. The fusion framework performs integration of the classifier and observer outputs at data, feature, and decision levels. An adaptive fading factor and recursive Gaussian process modeling ensure precise estimation of varying parameters. Real-vehicle tests demonstrate that the proposed method reduces the average estimation error by 8.5% and improves convergence speed by 40% during road surface changes, demonstrating potential for integration into off-road vehicle stability control systems.
Zhang, Chenhao, Xia, Guang, Zhang, Yang, Zhou, Dayang, Shi, Qin
Determining Optimal Suspension & Body in White Mountings to maximize Off-Road Capability of Passenger Vehicles2026-26-00981/16/2026
The automotive market trend is shifting more and more to SUVs and crossovers. This, therefore, means increasing consumer demand for off-road abilities in passenger vehicles. While dedicated off-road platforms provide a path to performance robustness, getting the same level of functionality out of a passenger vehicle with minimal architectural changes proves to be a great feat for engineers. One highly critical performance determinant in the domain of off-road ability is wheel articulation, it requires independent movement capacity of the wheels to keep contact and stability over uneven terrain. Traditional articulations found in passenger car suspensions—created for comfort, packaging, and on-road dynamics—are limited by suspension geometry, damper alignment as well as compliance setup. Damper side loads- were not considered a significant factor in suspension systems that are operating within their original intended design envelope for on-road use. However, when the vehicle is taken off-road, extreme conditions lead to lateral forces during an unseated exaggerated wheel travel, these can result in seal degradation as well as rod bending increasing friction (stiction) leading ultimately to damper failure. Seal durability and general component integrity are not the only issues increased side loading will decrease articulation reduce traction and degrade ride quality during severe terrain inputs. Articulation- is essentially a measure of flexibility in the suspension which directly controls off-road performance characteristics. With limited articulation there is wheel lift traction loss and increased chassis contact. A major limitation to achieving full articulation is damper side load-the perpendicular force to the damper shaft created from angular misalignment in suspension travel. This also increases the compressive stress on the damper rod. Therefore, an optimization of the rod diameter, length, and material is required. The Ramp Travel Index (RTI) is a means of expressing articulation by using the measure of ramp height that can be attained by a vehicle climbing with one wheel while maintaining contact with others. A high RTI indicates good off-road capability. There exists an interrelationship between suspension geometry, damper side load characteristics, and axle alignment in determining off-road performance; this paper proposes an optimization guideline to overall improve wheel articulation specifically for passenger vehicles through these parameters: wheel travel, suspension hard points, and damper mounting orientations.
Siddiqui, Arshad, Iqbal, Shoaib, Dwivedi, Sushil
Monitoring and Diagnosing Software-Defined Vehicle Architectures2026-26-06771/16/2026
Software-Defined Vehicles (SDV) are fostered through initiatives like SOAFEE and Eclipse SDV promoting the use of cloud-native approaches, distributed workloads and service-oriented architectures (SOA). This means that in these systems each vehicle is connected to the cloud and functions are executed both inside the vehicle and in the cloud. So far, there are no established solutions for monitoring and diagnosing SDVs. In designing these solutions, the cost-sensitive nature of every component inside a vehicle must be considered since it makes it unlikely that significant resources will be provided just for diagnostics. Therefore, conventional data centre monitoring approaches that usually rely on transferring large amounts of data to dedicated servers are not directly applicable in this scenario. To illustrate the challenges in providing new solutions for diagnosing and monitoring SDVs, a SOA that has been defined and studied in research projects is introduced. In this architecture, every vehicle function is implemented by an independent service while an orchestrator manages them. The ASAM SOVD (ISO 17978) standard was introduced as a successor for existing diagnostic protocols such as UDS specifically to support diagnosing SDVs. Though it already goes beyond UDS in functionality and supports diagnosing more complex issues, e.g. by allowing to access log files, it does not yet provide functionality specifically related to diagnosing problems that can arise in an SOA. This would require functionality such as validating service quality, chain-of-effects, or dynamic resource usage. Additionally, as services can be distributed between the vehicle and the cloud, diagnostic functions must take that into account. By transferring established IT solutions for monitoring and diagnostics to vehicles and extending the SOVD standard, the paper proposes a solution that fills current gaps: on-board monitoring of services including their chain-of-effects, fault generation for erroneous conditions, analysis of historical data, etc. With SOVD progressing toward ISO standardisation, its adoption extends beyond automotive passenger vehicles into industries such as off-highway and agricultural machinery, which are also introducing Automotive Ethernet and HPC architectures. These developments not only influence diagnostic architectures in SDVs but also have strategic implications for production processes and aftersales service models, as discussed in the concluding section.
Böhlen, Boris, Fischer, Diana
AI-Powered Intelligent Cognitive Lens for Driver Monitoring for Safe Transportation and Increased Fleet Efficiency Abstract2026-26-06341/16/2026
The rapid evolution of intelligent transportation systems has made drivers’ attentiveness and adherence to safety protocols more critical than ever. Traditional monitoring solutions often lack the adaptability to detect subtle behavioral changes in real time. This paper presents an advanced AI-powered Driver Monitoring System designed to continuously assess driver behavior, fatigue, distractions, and emotional state across various driving conditions. By providing real-time alerts and insights to vehicle owners, fleet operators, and safety personnel, the system significantly enhances road safety. The system integrates lightweight AI/ML algorithms, image processing techniques, perception models, and rule-based engines to deliver a comprehensive monitoring solution for multiple transportation modes, including automotive, rail, aerospace, and off-highway vehicles. Optimized for edge devices, the models ensure real-time processing with minimal computational overhead. Alerts are communicated through web and mobile platforms, supplemented by audio-visual cues for prompt user responses. Data from multi-camera setups, auditory sensors, and vehicle CAN bus inputs are processed by a real-time analytics engine that detects abnormal behaviors and safety violations, improving situational awareness and enabling timely interventions. For both individual drivers and fleet managers, the platform serves as an intelligence hub that boosts situational awareness, operational efficiency, and safety compliance. Drivers receive real-time feedback on their behavior, allowing them to make proactive adjustments and reduce risks. Fleet managers can leverage cloud-based connectivity to access predictive analytics, real-time monitoring, and detailed historical behavior data. This enables the identification of unsafe driving patterns, enforcement of safety protocols, and optimization of fleet performance. The system also simplifies regulatory reporting and auditing processes, ensuring compliance with safety standards. By continuously monitoring driver behavior, managers can foster a culture of safety and performance while improving overall fleet operations.
Chikhale, Shraddha, Sing, Sandip, Hivarkar, Umesh, Mardhekar, Amogh
WITHDRAWAL NOTICE2026-26-0502.011/16/2026
A Comprehensive Strategy for Diesel Particulate Filter Calibration to Address the Diverse Applications of Stage V Construction Equipment Vehicles2026-26-01431/16/2026
The legislation of CEV Stage V emission norms has necessitated advanced Diesel Particulate Filter calibration strategies to ensure optimal performance across diverse construction equipment applications in the Indian market. Considering the various duty cycles of cranes, backhoe loaders, forklifts, compactors, graders, and other equipment, different load conditions and operational environments require a comprehensive strategy to enhance DPF efficiency, minimize regeneration frequency, and maintain compliance with emission standards. The DPF, as an after-treatment system in the exhaust layout, is essential for meeting emission standards, as it effectively traps particulate matter. Regeneration occurs periodically to burn the soot particles trapped inside the DPF through ECU management. Therefore, understanding soot loading and in-brick DPF temperature behavior across various applications is key. This paper explores the challenges in DPF calibration for CEV Stage V and provides a comprehensive approach to address these challenges, including optimizing soot loading and thermal management for different duty cycles across various applications within a unified calibration framework. The frugal Off-Highway Vehicle market expects a leaner Exhaust Gas Treatment approach, which increases the challenges of thermal management and soot loading. Additionally, the market is moving towards extracting maximum BMEP from their engines, which impacts passive regeneration and DPF thermal stability, among other parameters.
Mohanty, Subham, Chaudhari, Kuldeepak, Patil, Lalit, Mahajan, Atish, Madhukar, Prahlad
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 regeneration significantly contributing to overall system efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and ensuring long-term emissions compliance for CEV Stage V engines.
Saxena, Harshit, Gandhi, Naresh, Lokare, Prasad, Shinde, Prashant, Patil, Ajit, Raut, Ashish
Key Parameters for Turbocharger Selection & Experimental Validation for off-Highway Applications2026-26-01041/16/2026
Customers in off-highway industry are increasingly seeking high-performance capabilities for their tractors due to increasing penetration of mechanisation and labour scarcity. One effective solution to achieve enhanced performance is turbocharging of engines, while meeting emission and highly dynamic transient response of tractor field applications. The process of selecting and validating a suitable turbocharger for tractor field application suitability is significantly time and resources consuming activity due to extensive testbed and field trials. This study focuses on the selection of turbocharger for tractor engines through analytical calculations to freeze key parameters like lambda, boost pressure ratio & temperature within boundaries of exhaust temperature and turbo efficiency maps to deliver best field transient performance and fuel consumption. The selected parameters are further validated under real-world transient operating conditions, involving tractors and their implements. This approach offers significant advantages by cutting development time and costs for engine while meeting highly dynamic transient performance.
Kumar, Harish Kumar, Rawat, Saurabh, Dogra, DaljitSingh, Singh, Sachleen, Singh, Amarinder
Calibration Strategies to Overcome the Challenges for Naturally Aspirated Off-Highway Engines for TREM V Emissions2026-26-02101/16/2026
The transition to TREM V emission norms presents significant challenges for naturally aspirated (NA) off-highway engines. Off-highway applications like construction and agriculture segments require high load variability and extended duty cycles with increased BMEP resulting in high PM emissions, and increased exhaust temperatures with lower lambda levels. Given the cost-competitive nature of the segment, it also requires designing leaner intake and exhaust system. To overcome above mentioned challenges, holistic calibration strategies need to be adapted during development phase. To meet TREM V emission norms, solutions like advanced combustion, high-pressure fuel injection, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation), and optimized calibration had to be explored along with aftertreatment systems like Diesel Particulate Filters and Diesel oxidation catalysts. Implementation of aftertreatment systems for TREM V pre-dominantly with naturally aspirated engines will result in challenges associated to soot accumulation and thermal management. This paper attempts to examine, the key technical challenges coming from the market towards use of large implements and heavy soil with NA engine demanding high BMEP, and challenges associated to aftertreatment system due to low operating lambda, smoke emissions and high exhaust gas temperature under different use cases. The research identifies the strategies, such as optimized air-fuel management, optimal specific soot load adaptation and multistage thermal control, to enhance system safety and reliability. Ultimately, the paper provides a strategic roadmap for industry stakeholders to achieve TREM V emissions while ensuring durability, efficiency, and economic viability in off-highway applications.
Patil, Madhavi M., Ravukutam Sr, Aniketh, Raghu, M Y, Madhukar, Prahlad
DPF Passive Regeneration Approach for CEV/TREM-V Off-Highway Applications2026-26-02111/16/2026
With introduction of Diesel Particulate Filter to achieve CEV/TREM V Emission Limits for off-highway segment, there is a requirement of DPF regeneration at defined intervals depending on time of operation and soot loading in DPF. This can be achieved by two methods. First is the frequent regeneration or Active regeneration, wherein fuel is injected before DOC (Diesel Oxidation Catalyst) at specific temperature to burn the soot in the DPF. The second method is the continuous or Passive regeneration, where soot is burnt based on NO2. DPF frequent regeneration (Active Regeneration) requires soot load estimation in DPF over entire engine operation range as well as vehicle operation in different climatic conditions. Frequent regeneration leads to oil dilution and penalty in the fuel consumption. More frequent regeneration promotes the chemical aging of DOC, leading to the poor performance of DOC which results in deteriorating performance of SCR(Selective Catalytic Reduction) situated downstream of DPF. In addition to Passive Regeneration Approach, modelled air path is used as complexity of using Mass Flow Sensors lies with robust calibration of air system model considering different vehicle variants/change in layout in real world & owing to dust contamination in Off-Road Vehicles. To avoid the shortcomings of the frequent regeneration in off-road application, the DPF regeneration was achieved by Passive regeneration approach. In this paper, continuous Passive regeneration will be discussed in detail for CEV/TREM V Legislation.
Sharma, Rakshit, Garg, Varun, Dhiman, Nitish, Grauenfels, Attila
Evaluation of Methods Used to Determine Vehicle Center of Gravity Height2026-26-05131/16/2026
This paper contains theoretical and experimental studies of the measurement accuracies of two methods commonly used by vehicle industries and other stakeholders to determine vehicle center of gravity (CG) height. The two methods, which both appear in international standards, are the Axle Lift method and the Stable Pendulum method. The Stable Pendulum method requires a dedicated swinging platform mechanism*, but it is generally considered to be more accurate than the Axle Lift method. Both methods rely on equations for computing CG height that are based on static balance models of a vehicle tested at various pitch angles. For each method, the accuracy of the resulting CG height computations is a function of the individual measurements needed in the model equations. The individual measurements needed depend on the method used, but they include weights, angles, and distance measurements. A theoretical error analysis study is presented that provides insight into the accuracy of both methods given the uncertainty in the required individual measurements. The theoretical error analysis provides uncertainty bounds on the measurements based on the models and equations used for the measurement methods. However, the uncertainty bounds do not account for potential measurement bias related to not adhering exactly to the test method protocols or related to attributes of the test methods not considered in the models and equations. Discussion of measurement bias for both methods, supported by the measurements made, is also provided. Tests using two vehicles and a calibration fixture with known CG height are conducted using both test methods. These tests provide insight into the repeatability of each method, and the tests done using the calibration fixture augment the theoretical error analyses and support claims made regarding the likely accuracy expectations of each method. The findings presented can guide on-highway and off-road vehicle manufacturers, regulatory agencies, and test laboratories in their decisions regarding which of the two methods is best suited for their needs to determine vehicle CG height.
Heydinger, Gary, Zagorski, Scott, Bartholomew, Meredith, Andreatta, Dale
Development of Door Impact Loads Using Pedal Force Sensor and First Principles2026-26-05381/16/2026
The first step in designing or analyzing any structure is to understand “right” set of loads. Typically, off-road vehicles have many access doors for service or getting into cab etc. Design of these doors and their latches involve a knowledge of the loads arising when the door is shut which usually involves an impact of varying magnitudes. In scenarios of these impact events, where there is sudden change of velocity within few milliseconds, produces high magnitude of loads on structures. One common way of estimating these loads using hand calculations involves evaluating the rate-of-change-of-momentum. However, this calculation needs “duration of impact”, and it is seldom known/difficult to estimate. Failing to capture duration of impact event will change load magnitudes drastically, e.g. load gets doubled if time-of-impact gets reduced from 0.2 to 0.1 seconds and subsequently fatigue life of the components in “Door-closing-event” gets reduce by ~8 times. For these problems, structures are usually designed and analyzed with certain assumptions for impact loads, and they end up either overdesigned or under designed for the reasons cited above. To design doors/latches structures under these impact loads further gets challenging due to not-so-easy way of measurements of impact forces. In this presentation, authors talk about how door impact loads were developed using frugal use of pedal force sensors, strain gages and effective use of mathematical techniques like load reconstruction. Further authors will also talk about correlation of developed loads with measured loads along with parameterization of these loads with respect to mass and door opening angle. Mathematical modelling eliminates the need for an elaborate instrumentation to determine the loads and would enable determination accurate load needs out of hand calculations only.
Valkunde, Sangram, Ghate, Amit, Gagare, Kiran
Exploring the Effects of Oil Cooler Deletion on Tractor Engine Operation2026-26-05471/16/2026
An optimal engine lubrication system, encompassing engine oil and an oil cooler, is critical for thermal management and minimizing frictional losses. This system ensures adequate lubrication and cooling of engine components, thereby maintaining optimal performance. This study investigates the implications of oil cooler removal in a 45HP inline engine tractor. Various validation trials were conducted, including high ambient temperature tests under worst-case conditions, high coolant temperature scenarios, and a rigorous tractor killer test. In the latter, the tractor underwent 100 hours of operation on a PTO bench at maximum engine RPMs. Despite an observable increase in lubricant oil temperature during these tests, the tractor did not exhibit any component seizure or failure. The findings aim to determine whether the inclusion of an oil cooler is essential for the engine's operational reliability. This research offers valuable guidance for optimizing hardware selection and cost- effective design strategies in off-highway vehicles. Cost reduction remains a significant challenge for engine manufacturers, particularly for off-highway application vehicles, as they strive to ensure robust performance without compromising reliability.
Gupta, Deepak, Kumar, Pankaj, Singh, Manjinder, Singh, Gagandeep, Kumar, Munish, Singh, Harpreet, Singh, Maninder
Integrating Road Load Data Acquisition and Signal Processing Techniques to Generate Reliable Drive Files for Electrodynamic Shakers in Testing the Exhaust Systems of Off-Highway Applications2026-26-05521/16/2026
Generating a reliable drive file for an electrodynamic (ED) shaker from Road Load Data Acquisition (RLDA) and validating its correlation with real-world conditions through damage and fatigue analysis is crucial for accurate component testing, particularly in complex systems like off-highway exhaust systems. This paper presents a methodology for creating such a drive file and establishing its validity, highlighting the necessity of ED shakers for simulating the intricate dynamic loads experienced by these systems. The process begins with acquiring comprehensive RLDA under representative operational conditions of the off-highway vehicle. Drive files are generated using this data, which records accelerations at important exhaust system mounting locations. Advanced signal processing techniques are employed to condense the raw RLDA into a format suitable for shaker control. To establish proper correlation, the generated drive file is used to excite the exhaust system on an ED shaker. Acceleration and strain responses at key locations are measured and compared with the original RLDA. Furthermore, fatigue damage calculations, based on material properties and stress-life (S-N) curves, are performed using both the RLDA and the shaker test data. A strong correlation in predicted fatigue life serves as a critical validation metric. The complexity of modern off-highway exhaust systems, characterized by intricate geometries, multiple mounting points, and exposure to severe operating environments, necessitates the use of ED shakers for comprehensive durability testing. Field testing alone can be time-consuming, expensive, and difficult to control. This research demonstrates that a well-correlated ED shaker drive file, derived from RLDA and validated through damage and fatigue analysis, provides a reliable and efficient method for simulating real-world loads with thermal (hot gas) considerations in a controlled laboratory environment. This application-oriented approach offers significant advantages for predicting component life, optimizing designs, and ensuring the long-term reliability of exhaust systems in demanding off-highway applications.
Khaire, Santosh Ramdas, Khaire, Rushikesh, Yadav, Dnyaneshwar
Guidelines and Procedures for Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Machine Tracking Equipment OperatorsJ2519_202601 (Current)1/1/2026
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
Stability Prediction and Anti-Roll Control of Off-Road Vehicle Based on Multi-Objective Optimization2025-01-733012/31/2025
Off-road vehicles need to adapt to harsh road environments and wild driving, so their rollover stability is very important. It is of great significance to predict and control the rollover stability of off-road vehicles based on the vehicle's driving state. This paper adopts a prediction method for off-road vehicle stability based on TTR (Time to Rollover), uses the LQR (Linear Quadratic Regulator) multi-objective optimization control method to perform anti-rollover control. Firstly, in view of the rollover risk of intelligent off-road vehicles under extreme road conditions, a three-degree-of-freedom rollover model of the vehicle is established, and a rollover failure index is proposed. Then, based on the TTR, a rollover failure prediction algorithm is developed. Next, the braking force through LQR controller is determined and the differential braking method is adopted for vehicle anti-roll control. Finally, a simulation platform is built based on CarSim and Simulink to simulate and verify the control algorithm. The results indicate that the LQR control algorithm has the least impact on vehicle speed. By comparison, LQR has the advantage of multi-objective control, which can quickly approach a stable lateral velocity. Furthermore, LQR's output is smoother and will dynamically adjust the output value according to the magnitude of the steering angle change rate.
Hu, Yutao, Ding, Ronghao, Wu, Dongmei, Wang, Jinxiang, Guan, Jie, Chen, Meng
Predictive Control Applied to Antilock Braking Systems of Heavy Vehicles on Deformable Terrain2025-36-000412/18/2025
Antilock braking systems (ABS) are critical to ensuring vehicle safety, particularly in challenging off-road environments where the braking dynamics is highly complex. This study focuses on the development of an advanced ABS controller for heavy off-road vehicles to improve operational safety and reliability. For this purpose, a Model-based Predictive Control (MPC) is proposed. The predictive capabilities of MPC, which optimize control actions based on system dynamics and constraints, are highlighted as a key aspect of this approach. The controlled system is modeled and simulated using a quarter-car model and a deformable ground model, providing a realistic representation of off-road conditions. Comparative simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of both controllers, focusing on their effectiveness in maintaining stability and improving braking efficiency.
Sawada, Fernando Satoshi, Santos, Luís Guilherme Cavalcante, Rodrigues, Gustavo Simão, Rossi Lopes, Elias Dias
SAE Truck & Off-Highway Engineering: December 202525TOFHP1212/11/2025
EDITORIAL: Off-highway innovators help kick off 202625TOFHP12_0412/1/2025
As I'm wont to do come December, with work well underway on the first issue of the new year, I like to take stock of upcoming venues for innovative product reveals and thought-provoking presentations on emerging trends and technologies. Come the first week of January, that means CES in Las Vegas. Traditional equipment manufacturers have increasingly used the event to demonstrate to the broader public that they not only deal in metal but also the digital realm. For example, earlier this year at CES, John Deere revealed its second-generation tech stack featuring camera pods, Nvidia Orin purpose-built processors and Deere's VPUs (vision processing units), along with four new autonomous machines including the 9RX 640 tractor for open-field ag operations. The company is exhibiting again this coming year.
Gehm, Ryan
Stoneridge Innovation Truck envisions a digital-vision future25TOFHP12_0512/1/2025
Stoneridge displayed its vision for the future of commercial vehicle technology on the SAE COMVEC 2025 exhibit floor. The Innovation Truck showcases the Tier 1 supplier's next-generation vision and driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance driver safety and fleet optimization. Mario Gafencu, product design and evaluation specialist at Stoneridge, gave Truck & Off-Highway Engineering a tech truck walkaround at the event. The first technology Gafencu detailed was the second-generation MirrorEye camera monitor system that's designed to replace the glass mirrors on the sides of a truck.
Gehm, Ryan
Simplifying ELECTRIC DRIVELINES25TOFHP12_0212/1/2025
FEV has a solution to downsize and reduce the complexity of off-highway machines via its electrified planetary gearset architecture. IVT Expo 2025 in Chicago featured a summit where industry professionals presented and discussed the nuts and bolts of the technology that powers the off-highway vehicle industry. Electrification continues to be a centerpiece of these discussions, but OEMs and suppliers are beginning to supply answers to many of the questions that this challenge presents. During the expo, several presentations covered the integration of electric powertrains at the component and architecture level. One presented by Thomas Wellman, chief engineer, drivetrain systems, FEV North America, detailed an EPGS (electrified planetary gear-set) off-highway drivetrain architecture that is modular and scalable for a variety of powertrain configurations.
Wolfe, Matt
Heavy-Payload Conveyance Paves the Way for Next-Generation Battery ManufacturingTBMG-5427912/1/2025
Battery technology is at the center of global innovation. From electric vehicles and off-highway machinery to consumer electronics and grid storage, demand for high-performing, reliable batteries has never been higher. This acceleration creates pressure on manufacturers to scale production while safeguarding quality and throughput.
PTO Clutch Hydraulic Performance Evaluation Methodology Development & Correlation2025-28-029511/6/2025
This paper presents an analysis methodology developed to comprehend the impact of pressure spikes in off-highway applications, particularly during PTO (Power Take-Off) clutch engagement. These pressure spikes can adversely affect hydraulic subsystem components such as seals, gaskets, and valve operations. Assessing hydraulic system performance through physical trials can be cumbersome, resulting in longer development times and increased costs. To address this, a methodology was developed in a virtual environment to evaluate hydraulic system performance. The virtual method outlined in this paper is created in a 1D environment using a simulation methodology to replicate the transient behavior of the dynamic system. The hydraulic system primarily includes a relief valve, solenoid valves, a pump, and a clutch. An analytical model was developed for the hydraulic system components with appropriate fidelity to accurately replicate the transient behavior and magnitudes of pressure spikes. This methodology has been validated by instrumenting the vehicle, yielding a strong correlation of over 90% with the acquired data. The correlated analytical model was then leveraged to conduct a Design of Experiments (DOE) on various subsystem components, including accumulators, orifices, and engagement rates, to analyze their effects on hydraulic system pressure spikes. This methodology has facilitated the development of an analytical workflow to optimize the system early in the product development cycle.
Memane, Nilesh, Kumar, Suneel, Veerkar, Vikrant
Cybersecurity: Applying Threat Modeling to Sensor-Control Architectures in Autonomous Off-Highway Vehicles2025-28-031611/6/2025
The rapid evolution of autonomy in Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs)—spanning agriculture, mining, and construction—demands robust cybersecurity strategies. Sensor-control systems, the cognitive core of autonomous OHVs, operate in harsh, connectivity-limited environments. This paper presents a structured approach to applying threat modeling to these architectures, ensuring secure-by-design systems that uphold safety, resilience, and operational integrity.
Kotal, Amit
Items per page:
1 – 50 of 753