Analyzation of the Application Scenarios of Ackerman Geometry based on Vehicle Steering Model

Abstract

A complete set of models about vehicle steering are established to testify the feasibility of Ackerman geometry applied in various scenarios. The relationship between different parameters from cars and how they affect the steering ability is studied by Python. Linear model and nonlinear model are built to adapt to small and big slip angle. The mechanism section is tested with data from two types of cars: BMW M3 and Chevrolet Cavalier. We find that M3 has a better steering capability since it can generate more lateral force with less sideslip. The relationship between slip angle and lateral force illuminates our research about Ackerman geometry. The result indicates that regular Ackerman principle is beneficial in the big wheel steering angle with low-speed conditions, because it can reduce the slip angle and tire-road interaction, making cornering smoother and reducing tire wear. However, in small wheel steering angle with high-speed conditions, the Ackerman principle has some limitations and should be amended, which adds to the slip angle and thus increase the lateral force to get better steering. That is basically the reason why Reverse Ackerman is widely applied in Formula 1.