Comparison of Whole-body Vibration Attenuation Properties Between Active and Passive Suspension Seats
Abstract
Professional drivers are at a high risk of WBV injury as they are exposed to vibration constantly throughout a working day. Recently a company has attempted to mitigate the risk by developing an active suspension seat aimed at reducing WBV exposure for long haul truck drivers. The purpose of this thesis was to compare the new active suspension technology to the current industry standard passive suspension seat. Seats were tested with Random vibration exposures and exposures simulating Canadian long-haul trucks. Seats were evaluated by A(8) daily vibration exposure and peak transmissibility metrics. The results determined that the active suspension is significantly more effective in attenuating z axis vibration at the frequencies that are most impactful on human health. However, both seats A(8) daily vibration exposures were below the ISO 2631-1 HCGZ caution limit. This suggests that there is no difference in health risks between seats.