Vehicle Dynamics Simulation
Tilting Vehicles Australia employs computer simulations to study various
aspects of vehicle dynamics. Dynamic simulation involves testing models
by subjecting them to the constraints of their mechanical design
under conditions determined by the laws of physics that govern mass and
motion.
For a description of the software we use, take a look at
Juice.
- This video shows a model of bicycle dynamics.
(Click to download aprox 425kb).
The same physical principles underlie the operation of tilting vehicles. Realistic results
with this model confirm that simulation of more complex dynamics can be done with good fidelity.
- This sequence of screen shots is from a simulation of a two front-wheel FTC trike
hitting a bump
(click for full size view).
- Vehicle performance depends crucially on the behaviour of the contact patch between
road and tyre, and that in turn depends on the suspension design.
Here you see a screen shot from a dynamic simulation of tyre and suspension behaviour
when striking a bump with the vehicle tilted at 45 degrees.
Created: October 2008. Last modified: October 2008.
(click for full size view).