Citation

Winkler CB, Fancher PS. Proc. Int. Tech. Conf. Enhanced Safety Vehicles 1992; 1992: 323-330.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, In public domain, Publisher National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper describes the technical basis for a scheme intended to ensure a minimum static roll-stability of articulated vehicles through regulation of the individual units making up those vehicles. The tilt table test procedure for the separate characterisation of the roll stability qualities of both payload units such as semi trailers (ie the payload bearing units requiring fifth wheel support for another unit) and of support units (ie the tractors, dollies or other units providing fifth wheel support) are described. The method for testing payload units involves the use of a virtual tractor. This device provides fifth wheel support and fifth wheel roll movement to the test unit. The roll movement required from the virtual tractor to stabilize the unit at the required threshold acceleration is determined. During the test the payload unit is loaded to a specified weight and cg height. The method for support units involves the use of the virtual trailer. The device is simply an adjustable load rack, which mounts on a fifth wheel using a conventional kingpin. Additional yaws and pitch stabilization is provided for the virtual trailer in a manner which allows realistic loading of the test units fifth wheel including relative roll motion as allowed by the fifth wheel lash. During the test the virtual trailer is loaded to a specified height and weight.