Formula Used:
| From: | To: |
The Centre of Gravity Distance to Roll Axis represents the vertical distance between a vehicle's center of gravity and its roll axis. This measurement is crucial in vehicle dynamics as it influences the vehicle's roll behavior and stability during cornering maneuvers.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the vertical distance from the center of gravity to the roll axis based on the vehicle's roll gradient, mass, and roll stiffness characteristics.
Details: Accurate calculation of the center of gravity distance to roll axis is essential for vehicle suspension design, roll stability analysis, and predicting vehicle behavior during cornering. It helps engineers optimize suspension geometry and anti-roll bar settings for improved handling and safety.
Tips: Enter roll gradient in rad/m/s², vehicle mass in kg, and both front and rear roll rates in Nm/rad. All values must be valid (mass > 0, roll rates ≥ 0).
Q1: What is roll gradient and how is it measured?
A: Roll gradient is the rate of change of vehicle body roll angle with respect to lateral acceleration. It's typically measured during steady-state cornering tests.
Q2: How does center of gravity height affect vehicle handling?
A: Higher center of gravity increases roll moment and reduces stability, while lower center of gravity improves handling and reduces body roll during cornering.
Q3: What are typical values for roll rates?
A: Roll rates vary significantly by vehicle type. Passenger cars typically have roll rates between 400-800 Nm/deg, while performance vehicles may have higher values.
Q4: Why is the negative sign used in the formula?
A: The negative sign indicates that the center of gravity is typically above the roll axis, and the distance is measured downward from the CG to the roll axis.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation method?
A: This method provides a good estimation for most vehicles, but actual measurements may vary due to suspension geometry, tire characteristics, and other dynamic factors.