U24 : heavy truck rollover characterization (phase C).

LaClair, Tim; Knee, Helmut; Franzese, Oscar; Arant, Michael; Hathaway, Richard; Keil, Mitch; Pape, Doug; Rhoda, Dale · 2010 · ROSA P / National Transportation Research Center, Incorporated, University Transportation Center

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Summary

This report details Phase C of a multi-phase study funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation to characterize the roll stability of heavy trucks, specifically focusing on cargo tank semitrailers. The research aimed to determine how specific suspension modifications affect rollover thresholds and vehicle dynamics. This phase built upon previous studies of van and flatbed semitrailers, seeking to validate computer simulation models against physical track testing to better understand and mitigate heavy truck rollover risks. The study employed a combined experimental and modeling approach. Researchers tested a Volvo tractor pulling an LBT tank semitrailer equipped with new generation wide base single tires. Three suspension configurations were evaluated: a typical design, a design with a wider track, and a design with both a wider track and greater separation between air bags. Track testing involved steady-state “ramp” steer, transient “step” steer, and dynamic “double lane change” maneuvers, with and without Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Concurrently, lumped parameter and flexible body models were developed using TruckSim® and Adams software to simulate these maneuvers and predict vehicle behavior. Key findings indicated that widening the semitrailer’s axle track raised the lateral acceleration threshold required to lift a tire from the pavement, confirming theoretical predictions. However, increasing the separation between suspension air bags did not produce consistently measurable changes in the wheel liftoff threshold, though it altered other behavioral characteristics. The study identified significant auxiliary roll damping generated by the restricted movement of air between suspension bags, which provided greater damping than the shock absorbers themselves. Modeling predictions generally aligned with test track behavior, validating the simulation tools. Limited testing with ESC revealed that the suspension changes did not negatively impact ESC performance. The significance of this work lies in its contribution to the development of accurate computer simulation models for heavy vehicle dynamics and the identification of design parameters that influence roll stability. By quantifying the effects of track width and suspension geometry, the study provides evidence-based recommendations for improving heavy truck safety. The validation of flexible body models supports future research into active and semi-active control systems, such as active roll control and electronic brake force distribution, which are reviewed as potential technologies for further stabilizing vehicles. This report serves as a final technical reference for understanding the mechanical factors governing cargo tank semitrailer rollover.

Key finding

Widening the track of the semitrailer’s axles raised the threshold for lifting a tire from the pavement, and auxiliary roll damping from air bag pressure restrictions was greater than that from shock absorbers.

Methodology

on_road

Provenance

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Summary generated by qwen3.6-27b-prismaquant on 2026-06-10; verification: verified.

Topics

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• steering pattern