Evaluation of the Effects of Design Features on Tracked Vehicle Mobility Using an Advanced Computer Simulation Model

On soft terrain, such as deep snow, track sinkage often exceeds vehicle ground clearance and the vehicle belly comes into contact with the terrain surface. This paper describes results of a detailed investigation into effects of design features, particularly the combined effects of initial track tension (i.e., tension in the track system when the vehicle is stationary on a level, hard surface) and vehicle belly attitude (nose-up or nose-down), on soft ground mobility of tracked vehicles. The investigation was conducted using the latest version of an advanced computer simulation model, termed NTVPM, and developed under the auspices of Vehicle Systems Development Corporation. Results show that the initial track tension has a significant effect on soft ground mobility, particularly when track sinkage is greater than vehicle ground clearance. When the vehicle belly is in contact with terrain surface, its attitude also has a notable effect on vehicle performance at low initial track tensions. However, its effect on mobility decreases with the increase in initial track tension. It is shown that NTVPM is an effective, useful tool for design and performance evaluation of tracked vehicles from a traction perspective.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/30654285
• Authors:
  • Wong, J Y
  • Huang, Wei
• Publication Date: 2005

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 344-365
• Serial:
  • International Journal of Heavy Vehicle Systems
  • Volume: 12
  • Issue Number: 4
  • Publisher: Inderscience Enterprises Limited
  • ISSN: 1744-232X
  • EISSN: 1741-5152
  • Serial URL: http://www.inderscience.com/jhome.php?jcode=IJHVS

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Advanced vehicle control systems; Computer models; Mobility; Simulation; Soft soils; Tracked vehicles; Tractive forces; Vehicle design
• Uncontrolled Terms: Sinkage
• Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Vehicles and Equipment; I91: Vehicle Design and Safety;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01046600
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Apr 18 2007 1:57PM