Influence analysis of crosswind on handling stability of tractor semi-trailer in double lane change situation

Abstract

To analyze the effect of crosswind on the handling stability of tractor semi-trailers in double-lane change situations, the tractor semi-trailer model and the relative aerodynamic coefficient model were built by using TruckSim. Considering the factors of different crosswind directions, crosswind speed, and vehicle speed, we analyzed the relationship between these factors and the handling stability of tractor semi-trailers in double-lane change situations. The results show that a trailer has movement delay and worse handling stability compared to a tractor. The tractor/semi-trailer is unstable when the vehicle speed is 75 km/h and the crosswind speed is 40km/h or 60km/h. The tractor semi-trailer is stable when the vehicle speed is 70 km/h and the crosswind speed is less than 60km/h.