Nonlinear dynamics of a wheeled vehicle. (Q1764457)

This is a monograph focusing on various modes of roadway vehicle (wheeled vehicle) stability. Longitudinal, transversal, and vertical vehicle dynamics are modeled and discussed. Engine and brake components are also considered. The authors propose new theoretical, numerical, and experimental approaches to this general area of vehicle dynamics. The book is divided into eleven chapters. Following a brief introductory chapter providing historical background, the authors present an extensive theoretical chapter on the theories of stability. They discuss and illustrate concepts attributed to Lyapunov, Poincaré, Poisson, Bogusz, and Szpunar. Particular attention is given to the little known, but quite useful concept of ``technical stability'' developed by Bogusz and Szpunar. In Chapter 3, the authors direct attention to vehicle stability by using various mathematical models including tire models. The next three chapters discuss longitudinal, transversal, and vertical dynamics. Chapters 7 and 8 are devoted to transversal and longitudinal tilt dynamics. In Chapter 9 the authors consider wheel rotational dynamics. The final two chapters discuss modeling of piston/connecting rod/crank-shaft systems and servobrake systems. The general emphasis of the monograph is the underlying stability theory. Consequently, the text is mathematical in its style. The stated intended readership includes both undergraduate and graduate students, academics, researchers, scientists, mathematicians, and engineers -- as well as automobile experts. The text, however, is relatively compact and brief. This reviewer believes the book will indeed provide useful information for a wide class of readers, but it will probably be of greatest use to those already familiar with the concepts. Over one hundred references are given for additional study.