Caster Angle Calculator

Caster Angle Formula:

\[ \Psi_c = \sin(C_1) - \sin(C_2) - \frac{(\cos(C_2)\cos(T_2) - \cos(C_1)\cos(T_1))\tan(S)}{\cos(C_2)\sin(T_2) - \cos(C_1)\sin(T_1)} \]

Camber 1 (C₁):

rad

Camber 2 (C₂):

rad

Toe Angle 1 (T₁):

rad

Toe Angle 2 (T₂):

rad

Steering Axis Inclination (S):

rad

Caster Angle (Ψc):

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1. What is Caster Angle?

Caster Angle is the angle between the vertical line and the steering axis, measured from the vertical line. It affects the steering system's stability and alignment, providing self-centering action and stability during vehicle operation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Caster Angle formula:

\[ \Psi_c = \sin(C_1) - \sin(C_2) - \frac{(\cos(C_2)\cos(T_2) - \cos(C_1)\cos(T_1))\tan(S)}{\cos(C_2)\sin(T_2) - \cos(C_1)\sin(T_1)} \]

Where:

\( C_1 \) — Camber 1 (radians)
\( C_2 \) — Camber 2 (radians)
\( T_1 \) — Toe Angle 1 (radians)
\( T_2 \) — Toe Angle 2 (radians)
\( S \) — Steering Axis Inclination (radians)

Explanation: The formula calculates caster angle based on camber and toe angle measurements at two different steering positions, incorporating steering axis inclination.

3. Importance of Caster Angle Calculation

Details: Proper caster angle is crucial for vehicle stability, steering returnability, and straight-line tracking. It affects how the vehicle handles during cornering and provides feedback to the driver.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all angle values in radians. Ensure measurements are accurate and taken at the specified steering positions. Avoid division by zero errors by ensuring proper input values.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range for caster angle?
A: Typical caster angles range from 2° to 7° (0.035 to 0.122 radians) for most passenger vehicles, with positive caster being most common.

Q2: How does caster angle affect vehicle handling?
A: More positive caster increases steering effort and return-to-center force, while less caster makes steering lighter but reduces stability.

Q3: Why measure at two different steering positions?
A: Measuring camber and toe at two positions allows calculation of the caster angle through trigonometric relationships in the steering geometry.

Q4: What units should be used for input?
A: All input angles must be in radians. Convert from degrees if necessary using: radians = degrees × π/180.

Q5: What causes division by zero errors?
A: Division by zero occurs when the denominator (cos(C₂)sin(T₂) - cos(C₁)sin(T₁)) equals zero, which happens with specific angle combinations.