Title: Model refinement and experimental evaluation for optimal design of speed humps

Authors: E. Khorshid, M. Alfares

Addresses: Mechanical Engineering Department, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, Safat 13060, Kuwait. ' Mechanical Engineering Department, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, Safat 13060, Kuwait

Abstract: In the process of optimising the Speed Control Hump (SCH) geometry, a mathematical model is used to simulate the response of the vehicle-human dynamics to SCHs. A parameter identification technique is conducted for the mathematical model of the vehicle components by solving an inverse problem using a non-linear optimisation method. The refined mathematical model is utilised to develop new optimal SCH designs. These designs are constructed and evaluated experimentally. The experimental results for the driver head acceleration responses when crossing the newly developed optimal speed humps demonstrate that a significant improvement over the existing circular hump can be achieved. Finally, with model refinement, the mathematical model capabilities to simulate the actual response are increased significantly.

Keywords: speed control humps; optimal design; geometric design; parameter estimation; vehicle dynamics modelling; driver responses; vehicle systems modelling.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVSMT.2007.011427

International Journal of Vehicle Systems Modelling and Testing, 2007 Vol.2 No.1, pp.80 - 99

Published online: 30 Nov 2006 *

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