Directional Control of Retarder-Equipped Heavy Trucks Operating on Slippery Surfaces

Data from driver-controlled vehicle tests are presented to demonstrate the nature of the control difficulties that may result from the use of retarders when the road surface is slippery. Findings from a computer simulation suitable for detailed study of the directional dynamics of retarder-equipped vehicles are described. A simplified analytical method is provided for estimating the influences of lateral acceleration (turning radius at speed), retarder torque, tire/road friction, and vehicle loading on the bounds of controllable vehicle operation.