Forensic Engineering Investigation Of Vehicle Wheel Separations

Abstract

Vehicle Wheel Fastenings Are Deceptively Complex Systems. Automobile & Truck Manufacturers Closely Specify These Components And Test Them Extensively. Conversely, Trailer Manufacturers Typically Purchase Their Running Gear Complete From Various Suppliers, And Commonly Perform Less In-House Engineering. This Case Involved A Trailer Wheel Separation. Investigation Showed A Dearth Of Relevant Published Research, And The Adverse Experts Made A Variety Of Conflicting Assertions. Ultimately, Extensive Testing Was Done Using Computerized Biaxial Load Application With Custom Stud Tension Sensing/Release Apparatus. This Paper Will Discuss The Incident-Specific Nature Of Wheel Separations, The Complex Interactions Between The Components, And The Legal Issues Involved In This Case.