Development of Heavy Vehicle Dynamic Stability Analysis Model Using MATLAB/SIMULINK

A dynamic stability analysis model of a five-axle tractor semitrailer vehicle is developed using the MATLAB/SIMULINK application tool. The linearized vehicle model is utilized to investigate the impending instability limits under various design, and operating conditions. Computer simulations are performed for step steer and a typical highway maneuver as input conditions to generate the yaw response characteristics. The model development is accomplished in a modular form to accommodate interactive re-runs of the model with design variations. SIMULINK modeling provides greater flexibility in development and incorporation of active control system modules in the model in order to investigate possible enhancement of vehicle stability limits.