INFLUENCE OF SIZE AND WEIGHT VARIABLES ON THE STABILITY AND CONTROL PROPERTIES OF HEAVY TRUCKS - VOLUME II. FINAL REPORT

Abstract

This study has determined the influence of variations in truck size and weight constraints on the stability and control properties of heavy vehicles. The size and weight contraints of interest include axle load, gross vehicle weight, length, width, type of multiple-trailer combinations, and bridge formula allowances. Variations in location of the center of gravity of the payload were also considered as a separate subject. The influence of these parametric variations on stability and control behavior was explored by means of both full-scale vehicle tests and computer simulations. In Volume I, the findings of the study were presented in a manner which is intended to inform the non-technical reader and, specifically, the persons concened with formulating policies and laws regarding truck size and weight. Volume II presents the methodology and summary results from the full-scale test program. The test findings relating size and weight variables to vehicle dynamic behavior are compared with those derived from simulation results. Volume II also presents the results of a special set of experimental measurements showing the dynamic loads which heavy trucks impose on the pavement. Volume III contains appendices of test and simulation data.