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This paper presents a method of trailer yaw stabilization for a tractor-trailer by automatic differential braking of trailer rear wheels. It is implemented as part of an ABS based upon a sliding mode observer (SMO). The trailer rear wheel brakes are alternately applied according to a control law derived from measurements of trailer yaw (relative to the tractor axis). The SMO provides an additional control function that prevents wheel lock. Brakes are applied in response to a control signal that is generated from measurements of trailer yaw. The SMO-based ABS regulates braking to prevent wheel lock and to simultaneously optimize yaw control.

The objective of this paper is to describe the SEPIA concept and to describe how the development and implementation of it can result in cost and timing improvements in the design phase of the new product development process. SEPIA stands for Simultaneous Engineering Parametric Interaction Analysis. The concept consists of developing a computer program that will receive input from relational databases of primary design variables, determine the interactions between the variables and calculate optimum values for all of them simultaneously, in a format that facilitates decision making. For new vehicle platform programs, the primary design variables are typically mass, manufacturing complexity/cost, performance, regulatory compliance, durability and damageability/repairability. Competitive vehicle analyses have been used to develop benchmark targets for each of the variables listed above and others including NVH, warranty/customer satisfaction, etc.

The purpose of this paper is to discuss vehicle damageability, repairability and insurability, to show the interdependence of these terms and how they should be considered in the new vehicle design/development process. The paper can be used as a companion to SAE J1555-RECOMMENDED PRACTICE FOR OPTIMIZING AUTOMOBILE DAMAGEABILITY. J1555 provides information on how to improve damageability. This paper explains why improving damageability and repairability are important for containing insurance costs. A brief description of automobile insurance terminology and coverage is given, so as to prepare the engineer for the design philosophy examples that show how improvements in damageability and repairability can be achieved.