What Is a 4-Poster Road Simulator? Uses, Specs & Booking Guide

A 4-poster road simulator (also called a 4-post rig or four-post shaker) is a test system that independently actuates each of a vehicle's four wheel contact points to replicate road surface profiles in a controlled laboratory environment.

How it works Each post is an electro-hydraulic or electro-mechanical actuator. Road surface data — captured via wheel hub accelerometers during a target proving ground drive — is replayed at each corner. The vehicle's suspension, body, and interior are subjected to realistic dynamic loads without the vehicle moving horizontally.

What it validates - Structural fatigue and durability (accelerated life testing) - Suspension geometry and bushings - Body squeak and rattle characterisation - NVH subjective assessment under road inputs - Sealing and weatherstripping performance

Key specifications to check when booking - Force capacity per actuator (typically 20–100 kN depending on vehicle class) - Stroke range (±50mm to ±200mm) - Frequency bandwidth (typically DC to 50Hz for road simulation) - Maximum vehicle weight (passenger car vs. SUV vs. commercial vehicle) - Drive file format compatibility (RPC, MTS, nCode)

When searching on RIGS & Roads, use the vibration_table or NVH category and filter by force capacity and frequency range to identify suitable 4-poster rigs in your region.