Velocity of Vehicle for Psychological Widening Calculator

Velocity Formula:

\[ v = 2.64 \times W_{ps} \times \sqrt{R_{mean}} \]

Vehicle Velocity (m/s):

1. What is Velocity for Psychological Widening?

Definition: This calculator estimates the vehicle velocity based on psychological widening at horizontal curves and mean radius of the curve.

Purpose: It helps transportation engineers determine appropriate vehicle speeds for safe navigation of curves considering psychological factors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ v = 2.64 \times W_{ps} \times \sqrt{R_{mean}} \]

Where:

\( v \) — Vehicle velocity (m/s)
\( W_{ps} \) — Psychological widening at horizontal curves (m)
\( R_{mean} \) — Mean radius of curve (m)

Explanation: The formula relates vehicle speed to the extra width needed for driver comfort on curves and the curve's radius.

3. Importance of Velocity Calculation

Details: Proper velocity estimation ensures safe curve negotiation, reduces driver stress, and prevents accidents on curved road sections.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the psychological widening (m), mean radius of curve (m), and tolerance percentage (default ±5%). All values must be > 0 except tolerance which can be negative.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is psychological widening?
A: The extra width provided on curves to account for driver perception and comfort, beyond what's needed for vehicle mechanics.

Q2: Why include a tolerance percentage?
A: The tolerance accounts for variations in driver behavior, vehicle characteristics, and environmental factors.

Q3: What's a typical psychological widening value?
A: Values typically range from 0.4m to 0.8m depending on road type and design speed.

Q4: How does curve radius affect velocity?
A: Larger radii allow higher speeds as they create gentler curves that are easier to navigate.

Q5: What units should I use?
A: All inputs should be in meters (m) for consistent results in m/s.