Analysis of the torsional rigidity of a dump semi-trailer under unfavourable load conditions. (1st January 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Valladares, David; Carrera, Marco; Miralbes, Ramon; Castejon, Luis
• Is Part Of: International journal of vehicle design. Volume 64:Number 2/3/4(2013)
• Page Start: 304
• Page End: 324
• Publication Date: 2014-01-01
• Subjects: semi-trailer -- dump -- torsional rigidity -- FEM -- rollover -- safety -- transport -- unloading -- coupling -- off-centre load -- instability; Motor vehicles -- Design and construction -- Periodicals; 629.231
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0143-3369

Abstract

The tipping operation of a dump semi-trailer increases the vehicle rollover risk. A higher centre of gravity, a transversal slope, varying compression degrees of the ground or an irregular unloading can lead to non-desirable lateral instability situations. Therefore it is interesting to analyse the torsional rigidity of the semi-trailer dump bed under unfavourable load conditions generating torsional compliance. By means of detailed finite element models, it has been possible to verify the correct performance of the articulated coupling between the semi-trailer dump bed and the hydraulic actuator in the presence of any unfavourable stability conditions that could occur.