Simulation Of Off-Road Vehicle Hop Phenomenon - Part 2 - Computer Analysis Results 885129

This paper presents some results found by the use of the Off-Road Vehicle Ride Simulation computer system described in several of author's papers. It is an interactive user-oriented system which enables designers to study motion of vehicle components, and a vehicle-equipment mechanical system as a whole under different conditions. The system, permits study of vehicle traction characteristics, drawbar pull components, vehicle field speed with various equipment, gear shifting effects, and other vehicle field. performance characteristics. In present paper off-road vehicle hop phenomenon received primary emphasis and is discussed in some detail. The effect on vehicle behavior of various tire/hard-surface traction models is illustrated. Several other factors effecting vehicle hop are also discussed. It is shown that some new designs, especially in such a sensitive area as off-road vehicle tires, may increase propensity of a vehicle to a hop. This phenomenon may present one of the most significant problems for future development of off highway vehicle industry.