Title: SIMULATION OF THE DIRECTIONAL RESPONSE CHARACTERISTICS OF TRACTOR-SEMITRAILER VEHICLES: FINAL TECHNICAL REPORT
Abstract: The capability of a detailed digital simulation is examined for predicting the steering response of tractor-semitrailers in obstacle-avoidance maneuvers, turning near the rollover limit, and steady turning. Measured and simulated results are presented for a three-axle tractor combined with either a van-trailer or a flat-bed trailer. The effect of changes in tractor frame stiffness and/or the roll stiffness of the front suspension is used to assess the validity of the simulation. Particular emphasis is given to the prediction of the articulation angle between the tractor and semitrailer during steady turns. It is concluded that the simulation provides an excellent prediction of vehicle response in obstacle-avoidance maneuvers. It has reasonable predictive capabilities for vehicle performance in severe turning maneuvers approaching the rollover limit. Since vehicle performance is very sensitive to steering level, forward velocity, and vehicle parameters in severe turns, very accurate input and parametric data are needed. Simulation data on trailer oversteer/understeer in steady turning with moderate lateral acceleration do not agree well with measured values. The articulation angle study indicates that further research is needed to obtain a detailed understanding of the steady turning behavior of articulated vehicles.
Publication Year: 1979
Publication Date: 1979-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
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