Experimental Validation of a Coupled Fluid-Multibody Dynamics Model for Tanker Trucks 2008-01-0777

A time-accurate finite element model for predicting the coupled dynamic response of tanker trucks and their liquid payloads is presented along with an experimental validation of the model. The tanker truck components are modeled using rigid bodies, flexible bodies, joints and actuators. The model is validated using a full-scale army heavy class tactical trailer carrying a water tank. The trailer is placed on an n-post motion base simulator which was used to perform harmonic/ramp pitch, roll and stir excitations of the trailer in order to simulate typical road maneuvers. Experiments were carried out with an empty tank and a 65%-filled tank. The time-histories of the tires and suspension system deflections are measured for the various input motion excitations. The experiment's measurements are compared with the results predicted using the computational model. The comparison shows that the model can predict with reasonably good accuracy the test tanker-trailer's dynamic response.