Enhancing lateral dynamic performance of all-terrain vehicles using variable-wheelbase chassis

Abstract

A six-wheel vehicle chassis scheme with a variable wheelbase is proposed to improve the lateral dynamic performance of vehicles. The yaw moment is varied by changing the wheelbase to enhance the lateral dynamic performance of the vehicle. A vehicle lateral dynamics model is established using this approach. The effects of the wheelbase variation on the lateral yaw rate gain, steering stability, and steering error are analysed via numerical calculations. A strategy for wheelbase variation under different working conditions is proposed to enhance the lateral dynamic performance. In addition, by studying the response of the vehicle to various lateral disturbance forces, it is verified that the wheelbase change can enhance the lateral anti-disturbance capability of the vehicle. The simulation verifies the effectiveness of the wheelbase change strategy under a variety of driving conditions.