Experimental evaluation of a hydraulically actuated tilt system for a narrow track three-wheeled vehicle

Benjamin Drew, Matt Barker, Kevin Edge, Jos Darling, Geralnt Owen

Research output: Chapter or section in a book/report/conference proceedingChapter in a published conference proceeding

2 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

The objective of the EU-funded CLEVER Project (Compact Low Emission VEhicle for uRban transport) is the design and development of a novel two-seat vehicle for individual urban transport providing car-like levels of comfort, safety and convenience with the lower emissions, noise levels and road footprints of motorcycles. A narrow three-wheeled tilting vehicle has been identified as the best method of achieving these goals. One problem with vehicles with a narrow track is the unstable roll moment created when cornering. To solve this issue, the vehicle's centre of gravity is moved towards the centre of the corner by tilting the vehicle in a similar manner to that of a motorcycle. An active tilting system using hydraulic actuation has been employed, allowing for car-like controls. A prototype vehicle has been built to test this active tilting system. Initial testing revealed that while basic steady state handling was good, transient response required improvement. The evidence indicating this poor response is examined, and the necessary methods employed within the control system to solve the issue are discussed. Improved results are presented following an increase in the system gain. The effects of different filter cutoff frequencies on the objective and subjective vehicle handling characteristics is also investigated and presented here. It is shown that when designing a three-wheeled tilting vehicle with the arrangement used in CLEVER, safe handling can only be achieved at the expense of fast tilt response. This is a result of fundamental limitations of the vehicle design.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of 2006 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, IMECE2006 - Fluid Power Systems and Technology Division
Place of PublicationU. S. A.
PublisherThe American Society of Mechanical Engineers(ASME)
Pages187-193
ISBN (Print)9780791837900
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 10 Nov 2006
Event2006 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, IMECE2006 - Chicago, IL, USA United States
Duration: 5 Nov 200610 Nov 2006

Publication series

NameAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers, The Fluid Power and Systems Technology Division, FPST
ISSN (Print)1071-6947

Conference

Conference2006 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, IMECE2006
Country/TerritoryUSA United States
CityChicago, IL
Period5/11/0610/11/06

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Fluid Flow and Transfer Processes

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