Our Expertise

Simulation of Vehicle, Road and Infrastructure Interactions

Simulation modelling, or numerical modelling as it’s sometimes called, is the process of creating and analysing a mathematical digital version of a physical system to predict its performance in the real world. Vehicle and component manufacturers use simulation to shorten the time it takes to go from initial concept to manufacture, and then to in-service operation.

In Australia and some other countries, government regulatory bodies combine the predictive capability and benefits of simulation with performance-based standards to help deliver safer and more productive heavy vehicles.  The same process also informs decisions about road and bridge (infrastructure) impacts thereby helping to expand road network access for innovative heavy vehicle combinations. 

Performance-Based Standards for Heavy Vehicles

Australia is leading the world in heavy vehicle regulation through the national Performance-Based Standards (PBS) Scheme. MSD’s Directors have contributed to this national initiative commencing with the foundational work at ARRB and through MSD over the last 20 years.

MSD’s unique understanding in this area has led to improvements in the performance measures and standards through recommendations to the National Transport Commission (NTC), the national association of Australian and New Zealand road transport and traffic authorities (Austroads), and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

Road Surface Unevenness (Profiles)

The road profile or surface unevenness is one of the main drivers of dynamic interaction between vehicle, road, and bridge systems.  It has a direct influence on vehicle safety, infrastructure serviceability and longevity, and ultimately the economics of road transport.

MSD has a long history of expertise in these areas which has been applied toward modelling to help understand, investigate and manage problems in this area.

Independent Reviews, Expert Witnesses and Forensic Engineering

Our consultants provide independent reviews, act as expert witnesses and use their specialist engineering knowledge to help identify, understand and solve problems in the above specialist areas.