Commercial Vehicle Air Consumption: Simulation, Validation and Recommendation

Abstract: This report details the work done in a master thesis project. The project was conducted at the Brake Performance Department at Scania CV AB. The project involves the development of a numerical model (in Matlab) that calculates and predicts air consumption in a truck under different drive cycles. The report first details tests and experiments done so as to acquire the necessary information for the development of the model. The report then presents the model that was created and delves into tests that were conducted for its validation. A model is created that allows the user to select different component combinations on the trucks along with different loading scenarios and drive cycles. Finally the model is used to evaluate air consumption in trucks during particularly strenuous cycles. The model developed is found to be reliable and accurate to with 7% with regard to amount of air consumed. With its help, several recommendations on how air consumption in commercial vehicles can be improved are made. The best components’ combination is also found and presented.