Topics:

This module covers the fundamental concepts and principles of vehicle dynamics including traction and braking, tyre design and modelling, suspension and ride analysis, load transfer and handling.

The effect that design choices have on the handling of the vehicle is also considered. The key performance indicators for vehicle dynamics and stability are discussed and evaluated.

The following topics will be covered in the 12 weeks delivery time of this module:

• Introduction to Vehicle Dynamics
• Tyre Design Basics
• Tyre Modelling and Analysis
• Traction and Acceleration Performance
• Braking Performance and Analysis
• Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH)
• Suspension and Ride Analysis
• Steering, Handling and Load Transfer
• Introduction to multi-body dynamics
• Vehicle dynamics modelling using Matlab/Simulink

Learning Strategies will incorporate.

Lectures: 12 hours (1 hr per week)
Seminars, Tutorials/Labs: 24 hours (2 hrs per week) to Matlab/Simulink tutorials, practical sessions within workshop and computer lab.
Student centred learning: 114 hours

• Gillespie, T. D., 1992. Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics. SAE.
• Barton D. C. and Fieldhourse, J. D., 2018. Automotive Chassis Engineering. Springer.
• Wong, J. Y. 2001. Theory of Ground Vehicles. John Wiley & Sons.
• Jazar, R. N., 2014. Vehicle Dynamics, Theory & Applications. Springer.
• Dixon, J. C., 1991. Tires, Suspension and Handling. Cambridge University Press.
• Bastow. D., 2004. Car Suspension and Handling. SAE International.
• Zuijdijk J, (2013) Vehicle Dynamics and Damping, Author House ISBN 147724736X
• Crolla, D. A., 2009. Automotive Engineering – Powertrain, Chassis system and Vehicle Body. Elsevier.

MATLAB/Simulink Package, Finite element-based software (ABAQUS, ANSYS) capable of doing Tyre, Structural and Handling Analysis, CAD Package, Workshop and Testing facilities.

Pre-requisites Fundamentals of Mechanics & Thermo-Fluid (MECH41000)
Co-requisites Mechanical Structures (MECH51000)

1. Understand the parameters that can influence and affect the vehicle dynamics and handling. (AHEP 3: EA1b, P4)

2. Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate vehicle handling, isolation and tyre modelling problem using appropriate techniques to achieve reliable results and compare with published or reliable source data. (AHEP 3: EA1b, D2, D3b, D4, P4, P8)

3. Communicate a knowledge and understanding of various vehicle dynamics systems including braking, suspension, handling, ride and traction and tyre, and Noise vibration and harshness within an automotive field. (AHEP 3: EA1b, P4, P8)

4. Critical analyse the vehicle dynamics system and communicate and share the findings through formal reports. (AHEP 3: D3b, D6, P4, G1)

One-hour class test covering learning outcomes of 1, 2 & 3. Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes EA1b, D2, D3b, D4, P4, P8.

Simulation/lab-based coursework Assignment covering outcome 2, 3 & 4 Meeting AHEP 3 Outcomes EA1b, D2, D3b, D4, D6, P4, P8, G1.