Modeling the acceleration of a car

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on modeling the acceleration of a car through its gears, emphasizing the importance of several key variables: current RPM, gear ratio, torque, horsepower, and tire circumference. Participants highlight the necessity of utilizing torque curves for accurate data and introduce the concept of rotational inertia in tires, which affects both angular and linear acceleration. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing a comprehensive formula for vehicle acceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque curves and their application in automotive performance
  • Knowledge of gear ratios and their impact on acceleration
  • Familiarity with rotational inertia and its calculation
  • Basic principles of linear and angular motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to derive torque curves for specific car models
  • Learn about calculating gear ratios and their effects on acceleration
  • Study the principles of rotational inertia and its role in vehicle dynamics
  • Explore mathematical modeling techniques for vehicle acceleration
USEFUL FOR

Automotive engineers, physics students, and car enthusiasts interested in understanding vehicle dynamics and performance optimization.

DerPfeil
i'm curious as to how one could model the acceleration of a car through the gears. it would have to be a formula for speed i think, and it would depend upon the current rpm, the gear ratio, the torque (and horsepower derived from it), and the circumference of the tire. i'd appreciate any input.
 
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You have a good start there. Torque curves are sometimes published so you could get your starting data there.

Another issues to consider: Rotational inertia in the tires. They are accelerating angularly and linearly at the same time. So you need their moment of inertia.
 

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