Investigating the effect of vibration on the stability of the three-wheeled scooter taxi

The present three wheeled scooter taxi (TWST) that are widespread in Africa and Asian Countries are fuel economical and inexpensive. However, they are unstable due to their schematic layout. This instability places limitation on the usage of the vehicle. Researchers have investigated the rollover and lateral stabilities of this vehicle, including the effect of vibration on the comfort of the riders. However, not much work has been done on the impact of vibration on the stability of the vehicle. These instabilities could be induced by trenches, potholes, uneven and ungraded roads that are prevalent in developing countries. Therefore, this work modelled and analysed the effect of vibration on a TWST using a standard road bump as reference point. The results proved the vehicle to be unstable in the vicinity of excitation frequency of 15.95rad/sec and spring constant of 68,600N/m due to resonance. This would affect safety of life and property. Therefore, it would be appropriate for some of the manufacturers of these vehicles to provide for enough safety margins in the design and selection of springs where the vehicles are rollover and laterally unstable. This will enhance the vehicle safety and receptivity. Keywords: Three wheeled Vehicle, Vibration Modelling and Analysis, Design, Safety of Life and Property