Six axis vehicle vibration and its effects on comfort.

Abstract The vibration in vehicles has been measured in three translational axes and three rotational axes at the passenger/seat interface and on the floor beneath the seat. The level, frequency and direction of vehicle vibration was shown to depend upon vehicle type, vehicle speed and road condition. Vibration associated with vehicle suspension, engine and seat characteristics can be identified. Comparison of vehicle vibration levels obtained within each axis with discomfort levels obtained in the laboratory implied that, in the vehicles investigated, vibration in the translational axes produced greater discomfort than vibration in the rotational axes. Vertical vibration appeared to produce greater discomfort than fore-and-aft, lateral, roll, pitch or yaw vibration.