This report examined the possibility of modifying the existing semi-trailer air suspension system to produce an anti-rollover system. Simulations show that the lateral acceleration at rollover can be increased 21 % and velocity around a curve at rollover can be increased 9.1 %. Pitch characteristics of the semi-trailer are not altered by the anti-rollover system, and bounce characteristics are only changed during high lateral acceleration maneuvers. The anti-rollover system will not alter the drivers perception of lateral acceleration experienced during a cornering maneuver. The anti-rollover system adds approximately 9.7 % to the purchase price of a new semi-trailer and 8.7 % to maintenance cost. Price feasibility is dependent upon the individual carrier. The power requirements of the anti-rollover system are 12 volts and under 9 amps, which is easily supplied by the existing electrical system. The anti-rollover system requires no modification of the tractor connection to the semi-trailer in order for the system to operate. Assuming the anti-rollover system is not cost prohibitive, the feasibility of developing such a system is blocked by safety issues. If safety measures are developed that insure safe failure of the anti-rollover system, then development of the system is feasible. Additional study is needed to determine how the performance of the anti-rollover system is enhanced through the use of larger air springs and how retrofitting and installation of larger air springs will effect cost feasibility.
Feasibility of modifying an existing semi-trailer air suspension anti-rollover system
Technische Durchführbarkeit der Modifikation einer vorhandenen Sattelanhänger-Luftfederung zu einem Antiüberrollsystem
2001
20 Seiten, 15 Bilder, 3 Tabellen, 24 Quellen
Conference paper
English
Feasibility of modifying an existing semi-trailer air suspension into an anti-rollover system
Automotive engineering | 2001
|Feasibility of Modifying an Existing Semi-Trailer Air Suspension Into an Anti-Rollover System
SAE Technical Papers | 2001
|British Library Conference Proceedings | 2001
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