Turning radius of a simple two-axle vehicle

[Gnarlywhale]

Greetings everyone and thanks in advance for any help you can offer.

I am currently part of a team tasked with designing and constructing an autonomous, mechanically powered two-axle vehicle capable of making left-hand u-turns around a set track.

I have designed a steering mechanism I believe is functional but have had difficulty locating any information in regards to determining the steering radius of the vehicle.

Specifically, I am unsure what kind of equation I can use to determine the steering radius of a vehicle given that the front axle itself turns with respect to the rear axle (the max angle between the front and rear axles is 30 deg).

Thanks again and please let me know if I should add anymore information.

 

[Unrest]

Specifically, I am unsure what kind of equation I can use to determine the steering radius of a vehicle given that the front axle itself turns with respect to the rear axle (the max angle between the front and rear axles is 30 deg).

In plan view, trace a line through the center of each axle. Where they all (both) meet is the center of the turning circle.

 

[polymerou]

If I understood correct, you looking for an equation for turning radius.

For cars is called Curb-to-curb turning radius and is given as:

R = Wb * Cf / Wc

R = Turning radius
Wb = Wheel base (Distance between front and rear wheels)
Cf = Conversion factor (Is given by the manufacturer)
Wc = Outside wheel cut (How big angle can perform the turning axle)

Another formula is:

Turning diameter = 2 * (L / sine(A))

L = length of wheelbase
A = the angle of the line drawn from the center of the offside tire to the point where the nearside tire centerline intersects the rear axle centerline.

 

[Gnarlywhale]

That was exactly what I needed, thank you!