Estimation of Light Commercial Vehicles Dynamics by Results of Road Tests and Simulation

Abstract

The chassis of light commercial vehicle (LCV) could be used for creating a wide range of vehicles modifications with the similar base (chassis), but really different performance in wide range of maneuvers. The differences could be explained by variety of design parameters. It means that the design of LCV modifications needs some effective approach that will provide an engineer by necessary data that could help to estimate the performance of new vehicles in particular active safety characteristics. This paper presents the combination of experimental and simulation methods that could be used for estimation of LCV active safety characteristics (first of all cornering stability). The experimental method of estimation of cornering stability is shown that is based on regulations of the Russian Standard GOST R 52302-2004 that presuppose different types of testing: static rollover and dynamic maneuvering on a road (line changing and running into the corner). The multi-body simulation method with using of MSC.ADAMS/CAR software was also used in a study. The approval of developed LCV multi-body model was made on a basis of good correlation between simulation results and experimental data. The relationship between LCVs design parameters (axle load distribution, height of the center of gravity, vertical and angular suspension stiffness) and active safety characteristics are received.