Enhancing vehicle-driver interaction: a time-frequency biomechanical model for investigating comfort and health impacts of vibration-induced resonances

High downforce race cars are renowned for their intense levels of acceleration and vibration. Traditionally, in the racing field, the significance of the driver's role tends to be overshadowed by the paramount importance placed on the vehicle's performance. However, delving into the rationale behind the inability of an average individual to endure these extreme accelerations becomes an intriguing pursuit. This inquiry highlights the necessity for specialized training to excel in this demanding discipline. Moreover, the primary objective of this research extends beyond mere vibration assessment. It aspires to construct a comprehensive biomechanical model that establishes connections between the vehicle's characteristics, such as mass and stiffness, and the physiological impact on specific bodily regions (e.g., the neck, eyeballs, etc.). This endeavour seeks to ascertain whether prolonged exposure to such conditions could potentially result in permanent health damage over time. In this regard, this study introduces a pioneering perspective, catering to the unique demands of this specific application. The research is structured into two core segments: mathematical modelling of the vehicle and a thorough analysis of vibration encompassing aspects of comfort, affected body zones, and resulting symptoms. The pivotal validation of the model relies on the integration of acquired telemetry data, ensuring its fidelity to realworld scenarios. Ultimately, through a frequency analysis of the weighted acceleration, the work establishes that variations in stiffness and damping significantly impact the driver's health in distinct ways. This exploration sheds light on the multifaceted relationship between high-performance racing cars and the well-being of the individuals who command them, marking a critical milestone in understanding and optimizing driver safety and performance.