| Abstract: | The structural characteristics and steering behaviour of a six-track vehicle are described in this paper. Kinematic analysis for skid steering of a six-track vehicle under steady-state conditions on firm ground is conducted, with the relationship between thrust force and speed instantaneous centre of the track–terrain interface taken into consideration. A mechanical model for steady steering of a six-track vehicle is also presented based on the kinematic analysis. In this model, the steering inaccuracy and efficiency are defined to evaluate steering performance. The steering performance of a six-track vehicle is numerically simulated to analyse the effect of the structural parameters and deflection angles on tracks. A virtual prototype model is established based on the multi-body dynamics software RecurDyn for steering simulation and the findings coincide well with theoretical results. The theory and the virtual prototype simulations presented are verified by a power test of a bucket-wheel excavator. The method for analysing the steering performance of a six-track vehicle proposed in this paper provides a basis for designing a six-track vehicle. |
