Title: Optimisation of mass and geometric vehicle parameters for multiple drive wheel trucks

Authors: Vladimir V. Vantsevich, M.S. Vysotski, Lev K. Gileles, Andrei M. Zakharik, Gemunu S. Happawana, Osita D.I. Nwokah

Addresses: National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus. National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus. National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus. National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas 75275, USA. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas 75275, USA

Abstract: To develop better performing vehicles for ground transportation, it is necessary to improve the theory on vehicle dynamics for choosing suitable mass and geometric parameters for highway as well as for off-road trucks. A new approach is required for choosing such optimal mass and geometric parameters. The present paper is devoted to this problem. A new method for synthesis of mass and geometric parameters is suggested here. The method allows us to synthesise the parameters in such a way as to provide a vehicle with the best transport efficiency in various road surface conditions. Constraints such as limitations on these parameters, vehicle running modes, mass and geometric parameters are included in the model. Furthermore, other constraints for vehicle running abilities which are dependent on mass and geometric parameters, as well as an algorithm for synthesising mass and geometric parameters, are also included in the paper needed for pre-optimisation process. The methodology is developed for a generic truck having m2 axles for the tractor and k2 axles for the semi4railer including an optimisation scheme for mass and geometric parameters to provide optimal traction and maximum force distribution among drive wheels for improved transport and fuel efficiency.

Keywords: fuel efficiency; multiple drive wheel trucks; optimisation; vehicle parameters.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.2001.001915

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 2001 Vol.25 No.3, pp.170-181

Published online: 18 Aug 2003 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article