Calculated Modes for Assessing Operation Properties and Dependability of Vehicles

Abstract

The problem of assessing the main operation and lifetime properties of vehicles based on justification of calculated cases is formulated and solved. Two approaches are used. The first one is developed for determining a calculated indicator by making a typical probabilistic representation of a parameter for property under study by example of the energy consumption of electric buses. The second approach relates to comparative procedures that allow to estimate the properties without a detailed set of data on construction of vehicles and their operation modes. In the frame of this approach, a method for estimating the energy consumption of an electric bus using data on the fuel consumption of a diesel bus of a similar mass is considered. The energy required for the movement of buses is compared, and the differences in their “Tank-to-Wheel” characteristics are taken into account. One more method is used for a comparative lifetime assessment of mechanical units; the parameters of the load mode are determined and the damage measure are calculated for objects being compared. The damage measures of the same gearbox are calculated when it works at various vehicles. The combination of both presented approaches increases the efficiency and validity of estimates when making decisions about the choice of parameters for the units or the use of ready-made units from different suppliers.