Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics (R114)

Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics (R114)
by Thomas D. Gillespie

Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics (R114)
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Book Summary Information

Author: Thomas D. Gillespie
Edition: Hardcover
Audio: English (Original Language); English (Unknown); English (Published)
Published: 1992-03
ISBN: 1560911999
Number of pages: 519
Publisher: SAE International

Book Reviews of Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics (R114)

Book Review: Poor Engineering Book
Summary: 1 Stars

I first have to say I am surprised that I am the only one to give this book such a poor rating. From a "reading for leisure" standpoint, this book explains the basic concepts of vehicle dynamics pretty well; however, as a engineering book (from SAE no less), this is probably one of the worst books I have ever purchased in my entire educational and professional career.

As one of the reviews mentioned, the "unexplained 'magic numbers' in formulas" take time to get used to. I am not one to just accept formulas as is. As a graduate student, I like to know some thought behind the formulas I am using. In addition to the 'magic numbers', the author poorly explains many formulas. As an example, the author does not explain whether the sprung weight or total weight should be used when determining steady-state cornering. In all the formulas, the total weight is used; however, when determining changes due to body roll, only the sprung weight should be taking into account. Since unsprung weight only accounts for 5% of the total weight, maybe the author decided that was "close enough"; however, he should explain his reasoning in his assumptions. The author does this throughout the book.

This brings me to my next point: poor examples and very few examples. The review from the individual who said this book had great examples must have been a review for another book. I can count on one hand the number of examples in this entire book. The few examples that are used are grossly over-simplified and very poor in explaining the steps involved in finding a solution.

Additionally, the author rambles on too much. His wordy explainations could easily be condensed into fewer pages. As an engineer, I like conceptual explainations, but I don't like wasting my time either. One particular example that comes to mind is a formula written in paragraph form. Instead of just typing out the formula, the author takes a paragraph to write out the formula. After taking about 30 minutes of reading the paragraph and trying to find out the meaning of it (along with 2 other graduate students), I finally gave up.

Summary of Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics (R114)

The first book providing comprehensive coverage of vehicle dynamics in a single volume, Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics provides a foundation of engineering principles and analytical methods to explain the performance of an automotive vehicle, with chapters focusing on: acceleration performance; braking performance; aerodynamics and rolling resistance; ride; tires; steady-state cornering; suspensions; steering systems; and rollover.

Acceleration, braking, turning, and ride are among the most fundamental properties of a motor vehicle. To understand the vehicle as a system, it is necessary to acquire a knowledge of all these modes. Motion is the common denominator of all these modes; thus, the study of this field is denoted as vehicle dynamics.

Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics introduces the basic mechanics governing vehicle performance, and familiarizes the reader with analytical methods and terminology.

This book attempts to find a middle ground by balancing engineering principles and equations of use to every automotive engineer with practical explanations of the mechanics involved, so that those without a formal engineering degree can still comprehend and use most of the principles discussed.

Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics provides thorough coverage of these subjects: Fundamental Approach to Modeling; Power-Limited Acceleration; Braking Forces; Anti-Lock Brake Systems; Aerodynamics; Rolling Resistance; Vehicle Response Properties; High-Speed Cornering; Independent Suspensions; Front Wheel Geometry; Transient Rollover; Dynamic Axle Loads; Traction-Limited Acceleration; Tire-Road Friction; Rear-Wheel Lockup; Drag; Total Road Loads; Vibration; Solid Axles; Roll Center Analysis; Front Wheel Drive; and Tire Construction.

Either as an introductory text or a practical professional overview, Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics is an ideal reference on the forces and factors affecting the movements of a vehicle - accelerating, braking, ride, and turning.

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