Applying a semi-recursive multibody approach enables the solution of the equations of motion of a complex system in real time. This makes it possible to conduct human-in-loop simulations and analyse the user experience. The idea of recognizing the user experience to produce more efficient, competitive, and user-friendly products has been limited thus far to the field of information technology and the development of light physical products. This study introduces a simulation modelling procedure for a complex forklift mast system that can be used to help analyse the user experience. A multibody forklift model is introduced that includes the electric motors, a pump, a freelift, a mainlift and tilt cylinders, actuators, pulley and chain mechanisms, contacts, and tyres. The viscoelastic behaviour of the chain during longitudinal and transverse movement is simulated using a discrete model approach. Triplex mast speeds and hydraulic system efficiencies across working cycles are used to verify the performance of the introduced real-time simulation model against measurements taken from an equivalent reference forklift. To better evaluate the developed model, experienced and inexperienced forklift drivers were asked to drive an updated simulator and provide feedback. User experience inputs that can be made available early on in development using this new modelling approach will permit experts to evaluate and design more efficient complex mechanical systems.
An integrated electro-mechanical drive train component for heavy duty vehicles in off-road applications is presented. The component utilizes a two-step transmission and a tooth-coil permanent magnet motor and has compact size enabling in-wheel installation. The driveline design procedure is surveyed to explore the advantages of a geared electric motor in electric drivelines. Multibody dynamic simulation is applied to verify the functionality of the driveline. A vehicle generic model that is compatible with a multibody simulator program is developed to describe the performance of the proposed driveline in different vehicles. A co-simulation procedure is applied to combine the electric motor and vehicle body simulation models. It is shown that the co-simulation can be performed in real-time, thus enabling a human driver to control the vehicle. A comparison is made of the rear wheel drive and wheel mounted electric motor from the efficiency and performance points of view. The power consumption of vehicles with different driveline architectures is calculated to diagnose the weak points of the system and enhancement solutions are proposed.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.