How to calculate turning radius of a car w.r.t speed?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the turning radius of a car in relation to speed and track length, particularly in the context of designing a racing track. Participants explore various factors that may influence this calculation, including physics principles and practical considerations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • M. Tayyeb seeks an equation to calculate the turning radius of a car based on speed and track length for a thesis project.
  • Some participants inquire about the factors that should be considered in such an equation.
  • There is mention of a standard turning radius of 25 feet, but it is noted that this may vary in sports contexts with speed changes.
  • Terry introduces the concept of lateral acceleration, stating that it is represented by the equation V^2/R, and emphasizes the complexity of the calculations involved.
  • Another participant highlights the importance of friction, proposing the equation ug = v^2/r, where u is the coefficient of static friction, and notes that the equation may change if the track is inclined.
  • There is a reminder about the value of thoughtful discussion rather than simply providing answers, encouraging engagement with follow-up questions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a shared interest in understanding the factors influencing the turning radius, but there is no consensus on a specific equation or method for calculation. Multiple viewpoints regarding the importance of friction and lateral acceleration are presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge that the calculations can become complex and may depend on various assumptions, such as the coefficient of friction and track angle, which remain unresolved in the discussion.

Mohammad Tayyeb
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I want to know the equation by which we can calculate the turing radius of a car with respect to speed or track length as I am designing a racing track for my thesis project.
Regards,
M.Tayyeb
 
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What factors do you think might be involved in such an equation?
 
that is what i really want to know ...that how we can calculate the turning radius of a car. As per standard 25' (feet) is a standard but in sports it will change with respect to speed. But i didnt know the formula or equation by which we can easily determined the turning radius...
 
Mohammad Tayyeb said:
that is what i really want to know ...that how we can calculate the turning radius of a car. As per standard 25' (feet) is a standard but in sports it will change with respect to speed. But i didnt know the formula or equation by which we can easily determined the turning radius...
What factors do you think might be involved in such an equation?
 
Lateral acceleration is V^2/R.
Now you have to decide on an appropriate value for lateral acceleration, and unless you make quite a few simplifying assumptions it can all become exceedingly complex.
Have a look at "Race car vehicle dynamics" by Milliken and Milliken to get a better understanding of the physics involved in this question.

Cheers,
Terry
 
friction is the factor that you'll need to consider.
so, the equation would be:
ug=v^2/r, where u is the coefficient of static friction between the track and tires. If the track is at an angle, the equation will be slightly different.
 
drragonx said:
friction is the factor that you'll need to consider.
so, the equation would be:
ug=v^2/r, where u is the coefficient of static friction between the track and tires. If the track is at an angle, the equation will be slightly different.

Yes, but...

Be aware that we generally discourage just blurting out the answer. The thread is more valuable to everyone reading it now and in the future if you give the original poster a chance to think through and respond to the follow-up questions.
 

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