This summer the Center for Professional Development at the University of Michigan in
Ann Arbor is offering two short courses of special interest to highway professionals.
University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) staff and a
representative of Radlinski & Associates will teach "Mechanics of Heavy-Duty Truck
Systems" from July 14-18. From July 28-31, Michael Sayers, UMTRI Chair, will join
Rick Mousseau, from Ford Motor Company, and Thomas D. Gillespie to teach
"Computer Simulation of Vehicle Dynamics." Both courses will take place in the
Chrysler Center on the North Campus of the University of Michigan.
"Mechanics of Heavy-Duty Truck Systems" examines "the fundamental mechanical and
dynamical principles which determine the braking, handling, and ride properties of
pneumatic-tired vehicles." Students will better understand truck behavior in relation to
traffic safety, pavement loading, and driver compatibility. A bachelor's degree in
engineering or the equivalent background is required, and experience or training in
analyzing or measuring braking, steering, and ride behavior of cars or trucks would be
helpful. The course fee is $1,250, and students may earn 3.5 continuing education
credits.
"Computer Simulation of Vehicle Dynamics" gives participants hands-on experience to
understand the power of computers in "solving vehicle dynamics problems in areas such
as automotive braking and handling, ride, and accident reconstruction." Students will take
home a Windows-based computer simulation package, the Society of Automotive
Engineer's textbook Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics, additional course notes, and
technical papers. A bachelor's degree in engineering or the equivalent background would
be beneficial, as would some experience or training in analysis or measurement of braking,
steering, or ride behavior of cars or trucks. The course fee is $1,500, and students may
earn 3.0 continuing education credits.
To request more information or registration materials, telephone (313) 647-7200 or fax
(313) 647-7182. The mailing address is Center for Professional development, The
University of Michigan, 273 Chrysler Center, North Campus, Ann Arbor, Michigan
48109-2092.
