Title: The dependence of truck roll stability on size and weight variables

Authors: R.D. Ervin

Addresses: Transportation Research Institute, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA

Abstract: The roll stability of heavy-duty trucks and truck combinations is discussed both on the level of the fundamental mechanics of vehicle response and from the viewpoint of the quantitative influence of size and weight variables. The presentation on fundamentals begins with the case of a rigidly suspended vehicle and builds up to the case of a tractor-semitrailer with distinctive suspension stiffnesses and spring lash properties at the various axle positions. Size and weight considerations cover variations in axle load, gross weight and overall width as well as incidental issues involving the height and possible lateral offset of the payload centre of gravity.

Keywords: axle load; grass vehicle weight; offset payload; roll stability; rollover; suspension stiffness; tractor-semitrailers; truck design; truck safety; heavy vehicles; vehicle design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1986.061173

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1986 Vol.7 No.5/6, pp.192 - 208

Published online: 25 May 2014 *

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