A study to examine the links between subjective, objective and mathematically modelled measures of vehicle handling is presented. The work was based around an experimental vehicle for which it was possible to modify physical parameters and thus its dynamic reponses. Seven of these physical parameters were varied according to a factorial design, and subjective and objective data were collected from eight vehicle configurations. Additionally, a handling model of moderate complexity has been used to generate simulations of the vehicle so that it may be validated and eventually be developed into a tool for predicting subjective handling qualities. Examples showing good correlations between experimental and predicted results are presented along with a preliminary factorial analysis indicating some subjective ratings which were significantly influenced by changing physical vehicle parameters. (A)
Samenvatting