Corner stability testing apparatus
US5189920A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 21, 1991 |
| Grant date | Mar 2, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 21, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N19/02
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus (10) for testing the cornering stability of a vehicle (12) to determine when the vehicle begins to slide or tip over when rounding a corner. A movable platform (32) is capable of supporting the weight of a vehicle, and the vehicle is positioned on one end of the platform. A counterweight (42) is positioned at the opposite end of the platform. The platform is rotatable through a range of speeds to simulate vehicle movement in a circular path such as when the vehicle is rounding a corner. Sensors are attached to wheels (T3, T4) of the vehicle to detect a sliding movement of the vehicle relative to the platform. A lifting movement which occurs when the vehicle begins to tip over, is also detectable. A method of determining a vehicle's center of gravity which will provide stability is also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.