A Simple Way to Measure

Understeer Gradient
Direct measurement without the use of a skid pad
Albert Loh - 21 August, 2015

Introduction
Measurement of understeer gradient usually involves the use of a skid pad. The
method outlined here is simple, repeatable and easy to do. All it requires is a straight road
with a constant side slope or camber.

Method
When a vehicle moves along a straight path with a cross-slope,
FYV
W

there is a side thrust due to the component of the vehicle

weight acting down the slope. Slip angles will be
generated front and rear to counter the side thrust due to
the slope.

At a steady state, there will be a constant steering angle required to maintain a

straight course. This steering angle divided by the cross slope is the understeer gradient.

Theory
Definition of Understeer Gradient
Steering angle = Ackerman steering angle + USG * Ay
Since the vehicle is travelling straight, Ackerman steering angle is = 0.
Lateral Acceleration Ay = FYV / W (in gs) = cross slope (for small angles)
Therefore, Understeer Gradient USG = Steering angle / cross slope.

A SIMPLE WAY TO MEASURE UNDERSTEER GRADIENT - ALBERT LOH

Direction of travel

F
FYV

F -
R

Sideslip angle = rear slip angle R

Steering angle = F - R > 0
Understeer Gradient USG = /(FYV/W)

Fig 1 - Understeer Gradient Measurement > 0 Steer into Slope (Understeer)

Direction of travel

FYV

= F - R

Sideslip angle = rear slip angle R

Steering angle = F - R < 0
Understeer Gradient USG = /(FYV/W)

Fig 2 - Understeer Gradient Measurement < 0 Steer Away from Slope (Oversteer)

A SIMPLE WAY TO MEASURE UNDERSTEER GRADIENT - ALBERT LOH