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The effect of wheelbase variation on the rollover threshold for a three axles' unit heavy-duty vehicle, is presented in this work. For this, a vehicle dynamic behavior simulation model to analyze lateral stability is used. Also, the concept of load distribution on rear axles and the relationship with geometric definition of wheelbase is incorporated, and so, the effect on handling characteristics is analyzed. Besides, results of the combined effect considering stiffness suspension in front and rear axles on resulting handling is included, according wheelbase variation. Results suggest a wheelbase value in which the vehicle highest rollover threshold is obtained.

The dynamic behavior of heavy vehicles moving on roads depends on load magnitude and its distribution, and a special concern may be directed to tankers. Liquid cargo at partial filled levels exhibits sloshing during vehicle longitudinal displacement, generating some forces which might alter vehicle's directional response and traction control. To attenuate the sloshing dynamic effect, transversal plates (baffles) are placed inside the container but increasing the structural container mass, arising vehicle's mass center and decreasing vehicle's useful load capacity. An experimental study on the effects of fill level and number of baffles on the sloshing attenuation is presented. For doing so, an instrumented scaled experimental tank of elliptical transversal section is used with water as liquid cargo, and longitudinal sloshing force is measured.

Trucks with semi-trailers are widely used for transportation of goods due their low operation cost, but inherent to these vehicles are some problems such as a poor maneuverability. To minimize the effects of this disadvantage, among other solutions, the incorporation of steerable axles in the semi-trailers has been proposed. This paper presents a steering equation, and a fuzzy-logic controller for a semi-trailer automatic forced-steering system to minimize the off-tracking and the total swept path width, resulting in an improvement of vehicle's maneuverability at low speeds. To accomplish this, the suggested control algorithm considers the articulation angle, and parameters such as vehicle speed and direction. The system was tested on an instrumented experimental semi-trailer during various predetermined test maneuvers.

This paper presents an on-board instrumentation to evaluate articulated vehicle maneuvers, using a system that combines a set of sensors and a GPS receiver with custom-made evaluation software. This system allows evaluating vehicle maneuverability and the performance of the truck's driver in real time. Also the performance measures and test maneuvers are briefly described.