Algorithm for comparative spectral assessment of vibration loads on wheeled military vehicles under off-road conditions

The urgent need to equip defense forces with highly mobile wheeled military vehicles (WMVs) has become a critical national priority amid the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war. This requirement necessitates the enhancement of key operational characteristics that define the performance of WMVs. This study analyzes the ride smoothness and ergonomic properties of such vehicles, with a particular focus on ensuring that a given WMV provides a comfortable ride within a specified speed range without excessive vibration exposure. A review of scientific literature on vibration load thresholds has highlighted the necessity of developing methodological tools that enable the assessment of vibration impacts on the human body at the vehicle design stage, particularly for off-road operations. Using the well-known mathematical modeling tool MATLAB, a spectral assessment algorithm for evaluating the vibration loads of WMVs in off-road conditions has been developed. This algorithm allows for an assessment of suspension system efficiency both at the design stage and during vehicle restoration or modernization. Based on the developed algorithm, a comparative evaluation of the suspension systems of two WMV models was conducted. The results indicate that the suspension system of the Mamai WMV enables its driver and crew to operate off-road with acceptable comfort levels for up to four hours, whereas the UAZ-3151 provides a comfort threshold of only one hour.