Development of Design Vehicles for Hang-Up Problem

Abstract

Design vehicles were developed to evaluate the operation of low-ground-clearance, long-wheelbase, overhang vehicles on extreme hump or sag profile alignments. The literature review indicated that although formal studies had been conducted to develop design vehicles, these vehicles did not include the information needed to assess hang-up susceptibility on a particular vertical alignment. Relevant design vehicle dimensions for 17 vehicle types prone to hang-up were developed. Relevant dimensions included wheelbase, ground clearance, and front and rear overhang. These vehicles can be used in conjunction with the HANGUP software or other tools in designing vertical alignments that reduce the likelihood of hangup problems. Because they are based on representative samples of both field-collected and manufacturers' data and have been evaluated using the HANGUP software, the design vehicles are reasonable and have a rational basis. The proposed vehicles should receive broad review with an eye toward inclusion in appropriate design policies and guidelines.

Trucks at Roundabouts: A Synthesis Study

“…Low clearance trucks hang-up problem is not only an issue at roundabouts, but also elsewhere at many locations in the traffic stream [20]. Truck hang-ups results in vehicular delay, minor damage to vehicle undercarriage, damage to roadway infrastructure, and sometimes crashes [21]. Godavarthy and Russell [22] simulated numerous number of low clearance trucks at various roundabout settings using AutoTURN 3D and TORUS software and determined that a four-inch and three-inch truck-apron heights that were traditionally used at single lane roundabouts were not suitable for accommodating lowboy vehicle trailers; however, a two-inch truck apron height seemed feasible.…”