Enhancing Truck Driver Wellbeing Through Design and Optimization of a Scissor Seat Suspension System for Vibration Reduction

Abstract Suspension systems in commercial vehicles are essential for minimizing driver exposure to road-induced vibrations, which contribute significantly to discomfort, fatigue, and long-term musculoskeletal disorders. This study aims to design, develop, and validate a novel Scissor Seat Suspension (SSS) system that reduces low-frequency, high-amplitude vibrations in commercial trucks, with the goal of enhancing driver comfort, health, and safety. The design incorporates a scissor-link mechanism supported by springs and dampers to counteract vertical vibrations commonly experienced in long-haul trucking. Ergonomic considerations and load conditions guided the selection of materials and mechanical components. SolidWorks was used for CAD modeling, while Ansys provided detailed Finite Element Analysis (FEA) under various operational scenarios. Simulation and FEA demonstrate a 20% improvement in vibration isolation and a 15% increase in load-bearing capacity over conventional seat suspensions, confirming the design’s real-world efficacy. The integration of structural optimization and ergonomic design principles ensures enhanced durability, safety, and performance. By reducing vibration exposure, the proposed SSS system contributes to improved driver health, reduced fatigue, and better operational efficiency, offering a practical advancement in automotive seating technology.Suspension systems in commercial vehicles are essential for minimizing driver exposure to road-induced vibrations, which contribute significantly to discomfort, fatigue, and long-term musculoskeletal disorders. This study aims to design, develop, and validate a novel Scissor Seat Suspension (SSS) system that reduces low-frequency, high-amplitude vibrations in commercial trucks, with the goal of enhancing driver comfort, health, and safety. The design incorporates a scissor-link mechanism supported by springs and dampers to counteract vertical vibrations commonly experienced in long-haul trucking. Ergonomic considerations and load conditions guided the selection of materials and mechanical components. SolidWorks was used for CAD modeling, while Ansys provided detailed Finite Element Analysis (FEA) under various operational scenarios. Simulation and FEA demonstrate a 20% improvement in vibration isolation and a 15% increase in load-bearing capacity over conventional seat suspensions, confirming the design’s real-world efficacy. The integration of structural optimization and ergonomic design principles ensures enhanced durability, safety, and performance. By reducing vibration exposure, the proposed SSS system contributes to improved driver health, reduced fatigue, and better operational efficiency, offering a practical advancement in automotive seating technology.