Driving simulator experiment on the moving stability of an automobile under strong crosswind

In expanding expressway networks in Japan, various types of structures have been constructed, e.g., long span bridges and bridges with high piers. The expressway structures are well designed for the external dynamic forces, e.g., earthquakes and strong winds. However, for further safety promotion of the expressway networks, it is important to evaluate the drivers' responses under strong dynamic disturbances. The present authors have investigated the moving stability of a vehicle under seismic motion based on both numerical simulation and virtual experiments using a driving simulator. Strong crosswind is considered as another factor that makes it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles. This study investigates the moving stability of a vehicle under strong crosswind based on numerical analyses and driving simulator experiments. To predict the future position of a moving vehicle including the reaction of a driver, the second-order predictable correction model is used in the numerical analyses. The results obtained from the numerical and experimental studies are compared and the validity of the driver model is discussed. It is expected that this research is helpful for the decision-making of expressway closure under strong wind and the design of wind barriers. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.