Abstract

Operation of all-terrain vehicles generates vibration and shocks which may contribute to the development of back disorders in drivers. Following up on previous research on the reduction of vibration in this type of vehicle, the IRSST is now funding a project that will evaluate a suspension system for all-terrain vehicles.

The project will measure the vibration transmitted to drivers in vehicles in which prototype 4-wheel suspension systems are present or absent. The suspension system is composed of visco-elastic components which absorb shocks and vibrations through twisting motions. A mathematical model of the behaviour of the system will be developed and will allow design parameters to be optimized.

Should it prove useful, the suspension system will be used, in conjunction with a seat equipped with a suspension system, to significantly reduce the intensity of shocks and vibration transmitted to operators of all-terrain vehicles.