Vehicle Dynamics Model for Predicting Maximum Truck Acceleration Levels

Abstract

The paper presents a simple vehicle dynamics model for estimating maximum vehicle acceleration levels based on a vehicle's tractive effort and aerodynamic, rolling, and grade resistance forces. In addition, typical model input parameters for different vehicle, pavement, and tire characteristics are presented. The model parameters are calibrated/validated against field data that were collected along the Smart Road test facility at Virginia Tech utilizing a truck and trailer for 10 weight-to-power configurations, ranging from 85 kg/kW to 169 kg/kW (140 lb/hp to 280 lb/hp). The model was found to predict vehicle speeds at the conclusion of the travel along the section to within 5 km/h (3.1 mi/hr) of field measurements, thus demonstrating the validity and applicability of the model.