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There is a limited amount of data in literature discussing dynamic instability of tractor trailers due to wind speed and wind gusts on slippery surfaces. This paper outlines an analytical approach to assess tractor trailer performance due to these factors. The paper considers short-period wind gusts as well as uplift effect of the wind, frictional properties of the roadway, vehicle speed, jackknife effects, inertial (both translational and rotational) properties of tractor trailer combinations. Correlation between parameters related to semi dynamic instabilities are offered in a graphical format.

This paper presents a method of determining a vehicle crush and equivalent barrier speed using digital photogrammetry. A state-of-the-art documentation technique called close-range photogrammetry allows engineers and accident reconstructionists to create three-dimensional computer models of damaged vehicles utilizing photographs. Utilizing photogrammetric software, engineers can digitize accident scene photographs to create accurate three-dimensional computer models of the vehicles, which can be used to quantify structural damage sustained by the vehicles. Crush deformation can be quantified utilizing this process and the resulting crush dimensions can be input into engineering software to determine a vehicle’s equivalent barrier speed. Knott Laboratory, Inc. has utilized these techniques on cases worldwide including the Princess Diana accident in France [1][2].