The Crosswind Sensitivity of Unladen Doubles and Triples Combinations and Their Susceptibility to Wind-Induced Offtracking and Rollover

Abstract

A computer-based analysis of large combination vehicles was conducted to examine the likely dynamic response of such systems when exposed to sudden crosswind gusts. The results indicate that relatively large crosswind-related offtracking and roll responses are possible for the so~called "western" triple combination vehicle (27-ft trailers) while travelling at highway speeds under empty and certain partially-loaded conditions. Strong sensitivities of the basic system response were observed for variations in vehicle operating speed, loading configuration, and crosswind magnitude. Additional calculations were also conducted for low speed operations under very high crosswind conditions where "blow-over" of the full-trailers is possible.