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Ruhl Forensic professional staff participates in research and testing, resulting in peer-reviewed papers which are published regularly. Some of the researched topics include a truck anti-rollover device, the redesign of a truck driver's seat and the design and use of an expanded air brake testing system, and modeling of tanker truck and tractor-trailer stability.
Staff investigates driver visibility, conspicuity and lighting issues, and vehicle performance by recreating the conditions surrounding the accident. Such recreations can include the use of exemplar vehicles, comparable lighting conditions, and human test subjects. Also, literature research is sometimes warranted to determine the prior history of an occurrence.
Ruhl Forensic has investigated injuries and fatalities involving vehicle occupants, truck drivers, police officers, firefighters, factory workers, and others. We use a variety of testing techniques to test the hypotheses of how an event occurred. We utilize slow motion videography, binocular microscopic identification, sensors and computerized measurements of sound, motion, acceleration, force and pressure, measuring tools, and radar gun. We measure speed, tire temperatures, brake temperatures, ambient light and many more physical parameters.
For example, measuring the friction that exists between loaded pallets and the floor of a trailer helps us to predict how the speed of a truck negotiating a curve affects load shift. Current truck fleet testing is ongoing with respect to add-on components to the braking system that claim to increase brake performance.
Through affiliation with the University of Illinois, additional research projects are carried out by staff also instructing at the university.
Ruhl Forensic research topics include:
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Air Brake System Analysis
Flat-Bed Trailer Roll Analysis
Tanker Truck Roll Analysis
Yaw Mark Analysis
Passenger Car Rollover with IbB
Pedestrian Impacts with IbB
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Commercial Truck Rollover
Tie-down Strap Load Capabilities
Driver Modeling
Vehicle Capabilities
Lighting Studies
Acceleration Testing
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