Abstract
Abstract:
In this work a multi-body analysis of kart dynamics has been performed using the commercial software Working Model. For this purpose the vehicle has been modelled using a lumped parameters model consisting of three rigid body linked by two elastic elements, that represent the frame torsional stiffness. In this way static and dynamic load transfers can be evaluated. The model also considers the particular geometry of the steering system, and also allows to change the characteristic parameters ( i.e. caster and king-pin angles, length of the lever arms and tie rods, etc) in order to appreciate the changes in vehicle performance.
This work also takes into account a tyre model in order to represent the cornering forces, using a model based on an exponential formulation obtained by fitting experimental data.