Evaluation of the Influence of the Trailer Mass Centre Position on the Stopping Distance of the Vehicle Combination. Experimental Verification of Calculations Using a Simulation Model

Abstract The paper presents the results of experimental verification of the constructed simulation model of the two-axle vehicle - single-axle unbraked trailer assembly. The model describes the effect of the trailer’s centre of mass position on the braking distance. The constructed model and the assumptions adopted for its construction are described at the beginning. The acquired geometric and mass data of the vehicles used for the tests are presented. The further part of the paper describes road tests in real conditions, where the braking distance of the towing vehicle itself and the towing vehicle - loaded (in six variants) single-axle unbraked trailer assembly were assessed. The parameters of the road surface on which the tests were conducted were determined. During the tests, the distance travelled by the vehicles and the force applied to the brake pedal were recorded. The results of experimental verification of the constructed simulation model are presented, where the values of the braking distance and deceleration were assessed. The model with confirmed usefulness will be used as a software component, which will be a real effect of implementation in the workplace of the solution of one of the co-authors of this study. A utilitarian effect will also be obtained, expanding the knowledge of people dealing with the issue of road accidents (court experts and car appraisers). The summary contains conclusions and comments for further research. The research was carried out as part of the statutory work conducted at the Military Institute of Armoured and Automotive Technology.