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Advanced Truck for High Speed Freight Operations

Award Information
Agency: Department of Transportation
Branch: N/A
Contract: DTRS57-04-C-10023
Agency Tracking Number: DTRT57-04-C-10023
Amount: $197,614.00
Phase: Phase II
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: 01-FR1
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2001
Award Year: 2008
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2004-03-15
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2007-06-30
Small Business Information
5810 South Grant Street
Hinsdale, IL 60521-4912
United States
DUNS: 111111111
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: Yes
Principal Investigator
 Vinaya Sharma
 President
 (630) 655-4630
Business Contact
 Vinaya Sharma
Title: President
Phone: (630) 655-4630
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

During Phase 1 of the project, Sharma & Associates, Inc. developed a concept for 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 indpendent, 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 1 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 components for additional testing/evaluation. As part of the 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.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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