Nonlinear Lateral and Yaw Dynamics and Stability of Snow mobiles

SUMMARY

This paper takes a close look at the mechanism of locomation in snowmobiles. A mathematical model is developed taking into account the inherent nonlinearities of the system. A piece-wise linear approach is presented. A nonlinear methodology is used to construct stability maps for the yaw dynamics. The strategy can be extended to assess the stability in lateral slip of the snowmobile when negotiating a turn. The developed models and strategies are useful design tools for a wide class of snowmobiles.