The rollover stability of three-wheeled vehicles (TWV) used extensively in South East Asian countries including India is commonly perceived to be poor. Rollover stability analysis has been conventionally carried out on the basis of Static Stability Factor. The results, based on dynamics and FE indicate that the suspension details and consequently the traction model are significant in determining rollover stability for the TWV. Simulations were conducted on a 1F/2R (one wheel on the front and two wheels on the rear axle) model of TWV to evaluate the rollover characteristics. The objective is to understand the anomaly between public perception and statistically reported results of injury probabilities. It is seen that the initiation of the TWV tip-over for the model considered occurs earlier than commercial four wheeled vehicles. The same is perceived by the common man on the street. However, the TWV does not eventually rollover, except when a depression is encountered on a turn. The objective to understand the difference between the common perspective and available statistical data has been resolved through a scientific investigation. For the covering abstract see ITRD E141807.
Samenvatting