Advanced Truck for High Speed Freight Operations

During Phase I of the project, Sharma & Associates, Inc. developed a concept for a high speed freight truck intended for 70-ton, regular freight and bi-modal operation at speeds up to 150 mph. The truck uses a rigid frame and an independent, compliant, primary suspension for its basic architecture. Constant contact side-bearings and yaw dampers were also added to improve dynamic performance. Vehicle dynamics simulations performed as part of Phase I indicate that the concept truck can travel at 150mph prior to the onset of lateral instability (hunting). The concept trucks also performed well in the other Chapter XI test regimes indicating track worthiness at lower speeds. The primary objective of Phase II of the project is to develop the truck concept into a detailed, practical and track-worthy design that can be prototyped and built for successful over-the-road or Chapter XI testing. A secondary objective is to produce prototypes of its key componenets for additional testing/evaluation. As part of this process, we will conduct additional vehicle dynamics analysis to ensure that the truck performs well under a wide range of scenarios including worn conditions. The most practical methods to achieve the desired suspension characteristics will be determined and the necessary details specified. It is expected that the concepts developed will provide the required safety and track worthiness required for high speed operation.