Advanced Analysis of Wheel Contact Forces in Dual-Unit Vehicles Using Kistler RoaDyn Sensors

The configuration under investigation consists of a car and a trailer connected by a coupling mechanism at a hinge point. Due to the dual-unit design, car–trailer combinations are prone to poor lateral stability at high speeds, often resulting in trailer sway, which is a significant factor in road accidents near the upper speed limit. This issue is exacerbated by the fact that drivers receive feedback primarily from the car, making it difficult to detect and respond to the trailer’s movements. To address this problem, vehicle manufacturers advocate for the use of active safety systems such as active trailer braking or steering. The comprehensive study of vehicle dynamics is essential for improving road safety, particularly in the context of car–trailer systems. This research aims to analyze the dynamic behavior of these systems using a specialized Kistler force and torque measurement instrument mounted on the vehicle’s wheels. By varying the position of the cargo mass forwards and backwards on the trailer, the effect of different load distributions on vehicle stability and handling will be evaluated. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the role of mass distribution in dynamic performance, contributing to the development of more effective safety measures and enhanced vehicle performance.