The Effects OD Static Vertical Load on the Coupling on the Breaking Distance of a Combination Vehicle. The Results of Road and Simulation Tests

Abstract The paper presents the results of road and simulation tests depicting the impact of vertical static load on the coupling on the braking distance of a combination vehicle. A hypothesis was put forward that verification by the vehicle user and a possible change in the static vertical load on the coupling (as a result of the incorrect position of the trailer’s centre of gravity) could influence the braking distance of a combination vehicle. The article presents the geometric and mass data obtained for the vehicles tested. This is followed by a description of road tests carried out under real conditions and the results of simulation calculations, where the braking distance of a vehicle combination consisting of a tractor unit and a loaded (in six variants) single-axle unbraked trailer was assessed. The parameters of the road surface on which the tests were carried out were defined. In the course of the tests, the distance travelled by the vehicles and the force applied to the brake pedal were recorded. The result of the work is a report presenting the results of the assessment of the braking distance depending on the static vertical load on the coupling device.