A mathematical model of tractor-occupant system with a new seat suspension for minimization of vibration response

Abstract In this paper the tractor-occupant system is modelled as a lumped parameter system; the composite model is analysed by computer simulation for vertical vibrational responses for a new type of seat suspension. It is shown that the new tractor seat suspension system (by proper selection of parameters) drastically improves the tolerance to high-intensity vibrations, in the 0.5–11-Hz range, experienced by tractor occupants, by reducing the maximum (i) amplitude ratios and relative displacements of the body parts to 0.029 and 0.19 mm, respectively, and (ii) body parts “acceleration levels’ to much below the ISO specified 7-h “exposure limit” curve.