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Dynamic Responses of a Single-Axle Trailer When Driving Over a Road Obstacle
Dalibor Barta1, Miroslav Blatnický1, Alyona Lovska1
1Department of Transport and Handling Machines, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Žilina, Univerzitná 8215/1, 010 26 Žilina, Slovakia.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 13, 2025
Summary
Heavier loads and slower speeds improve trailer stability on uneven roads. Empty trailers are more prone to wheel-lift, posing a safety risk during transit.
Area of Science:
- Automotive Engineering
- Road Safety
- Vehicle Dynamics
Background:
- Passenger car trailers, essential for goods transport, can exhibit unstable driving properties, especially when empty on uneven roads.
- Unfavorable driving conditions, such as wheel-lift, compromise tire-road contact, impacting vehicle control and safety.
- Understanding trailer dynamics is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring safe operation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify acceleration in a single-axle trailer when encountering road obstacles.
- To assess the impact of trailer load and driving speed on trailer stability.
- To identify conditions that increase the risk of wheel-lift.
Main Methods:
- Acceleration measurements were performed on a single-axle trailer using accelerometers mounted on the frame.
- Tests involved driving over artificial road obstacles (25mm and 50mm wood plates).
- Trailer loads ranged from 0 kg to 300 kg, with driving speeds of 20 km/h and 30 km/h.
Main Results:
- Increased trailer load correlated with safer operating conditions and reduced acceleration.
- Lower driving speeds (20 km/h) resulted in more stable trailer performance compared to higher speeds (30 km/h).
- A 0 kg load significantly increased the likelihood of wheel-lift, particularly at lower speeds.
Conclusions:
- Heavier trailer loads enhance stability and reduce the risk of dangerous wheel-lift.
- Operating trailers at lower speeds contributes to safer driving dynamics.
- Recommendations for safe trailer operation include appropriate loading and speed management, especially on uneven terrain.
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