Aussie model used in anti-overload strategy

Computer simulations
evaluate proposed designs KEVIN MAYHEW TWO PILOT projects to evaluate local heavy vehicle designs against accepted Australian performance based standards (PBS) are to be launched in November. The project is another part of the National Overload Control Strategy that is also planning to roll out its Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (LAP) to more industries after a successful pilot in the forestry industry. Other industries earmarked are pulp, paper and board, coal, asphalt, aggregate and sand, according to the CSIR's Paul Nordengen. “The Australians have established basic PBS measures which significantly improve safety of vehicles for drivers and the public as well as economy of operations while reducing damage to infrastructure. They make use of technological advances to simulate test conditions on computer to evaluate the proposed designs against the standards, which are then passed on to manufacturers to build into designs,” he said. Specifications for a local vehicle were recently sent to Australia for assessment and did not fare very well, which is why the authorities are interested in using the Australian PBS approach, he added. The two pilot projects within the timber industry are to run for three years. Preliminary drawings have been completed for 23 to 25m rigs of between 62 and 65 tons that will now be theoretically measured by Australian consultants to establish designs and standards that can be incorporated into future operations and designs.