Performance evaluation of traction control systems using a vehicle dynamic model

Abstract

This study evaluates traction control systems (TCSs) composed of either a wheel slip controller or a throttle valve controller, or an integrated controller of both systems. The dynamic characteristics of a vehicle and a TCS are evaluated using a proposed full car model that can simulate the responses of both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles. A driver model is also modified to control the vehicle during tests on a road with split Coefficients. The results show that the brake TCS provides more acceleration on uniform slippery and split roads, but the yaw rate and the lateral off set are larger than those obtained when an engine TCS is used. When the vehicle is cornering and accelerating with the brake or engine TCS, understeer or oversteer occur, depending on the driving conditions. An integrated TCS prevents most of these problems and improved the stability and controllability of the vehicle. Four-wheel-drive vehicles exhibit better traction control than two-wheel-drive vehicles, but their steerability is reduced.