Bruce P. Minaker

An introduction to vehicle dynamics and the fundamentals of mathematical modeling

Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics and Modeling is a student-focused textbook providing an introduction to vehicle dynamics, and covers the fundamentals of vehicle model development.  It illustrates the process for construction of a mathematical model through the application of the equations of motion.  The text describes techniques for solution of the model, and demonstrates how to conduct an analysis and interpret the results.  A significant portion of the book is devoted to the classical linear dynamic models, and provides a foundation for understanding and predicting vehicle behaviour as a consequence of the design parameters.

Modeling the pneumatic tire is also covered, along with methods for solving the suspension kinematics problem, and prediction of acceleration and braking performance.  The book introduces the concept of multibody dynamics as applied to vehicles and provides insight into how large and high fidelity models can be constructed.  It includes the development of a method suitable for computer implementation, which can automatically generate and solve the linear equations of motion for large complex models.

Key features:

      Accompanied by a website hosting MATLAB® code.

      Supported by the Global Education Delivery channels.

Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics and Modeling is an ideal textbook for senior undergraduate and graduate courses on vehicle dynamics.