CMVRTC: Development of Brake Performance Testing for Truck Platoons
Goal:
To research the variability of brake performance in truck platoon operations and to provide a new dataset of brake performance data to truck platoon technology providers and to State and Federal agencies.
Background:
To date, truck platoon research has primarily been concerned with the operational parameters used to control the following distance of each separate vehicle within the platoon. Previous FMCSA brake performance testing has shown wide variability in stopping distance performance based on variances on the steer, drive, or trailer axles and the amount of weight carried by the tractor semitrailer. While an existing Performance-Based Brake Tester (PBBT) device can be used to determine the overall vehicle brake force in a commercial motor vehicle, it is not an indicator of vehicle stopping distance performance from 60 miles per hour.
Summary:
This project will focus on the variability of brake performance using the agency’s three test tractor-trailers. Additional 60 mile-per-hour stopping distance testing will be performed on the tractors, utilizing "green" brake friction and burnished brake friction at varying gross vehicle weights.
Outcomes:
Final report.
Milestones: |
Completed: |
| October 2017: Kick-off meeting | ☑ |
| January 2018: Finalize brake testing work plan | ☑ |
| September 2019: Draft guidance document | ☑ |
| October 2019: Draft final report and final briefing | ☑ |
| November 2019: Final report due | ☑ |
Funding:
FY17 Funding: $450,000
Project Manager:
For more information, contact Chris Flanigan of the Technology Division at 202-385-2384 or chris.flanigan@dot.gov.
Contractor:
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Last updated: Monday, March 9, 2020