1. What is Turn Radius?

Turn radius is the minimum radius of the circle a vehicle can make when turning at a specific steering angle. It's an important measurement for vehicle design, road planning, and driving safety.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the turn radius formula:

Where:

• \( R \) — Turn radius (meters)
• \( WB \) — Wheelbase (meters)
• \( \theta \) — Steer angle (degrees)

Explanation: The formula calculates the radius of the circle a vehicle will follow based on its wheelbase and the steering angle of its wheels.

3. Importance of Turn Radius Calculation

Details: Understanding turn radius is crucial for vehicle design, determining minimum turning space requirements, road design, and ensuring safe maneuverability in various driving conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter wheelbase in meters and steer angle in degrees. The steer angle must be between 0 and 90 degrees (exclusive) for valid results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is wheelbase important in turn radius calculation?
A: Longer wheelbase vehicles generally have larger turning radii, making them less maneuverable in tight spaces.

Q2: Does this formula work for all vehicle types?
A: This formula provides a basic approximation. Actual turning radius may vary based on suspension design, tire characteristics, and other factors.

Q3: What is a typical turn radius for passenger vehicles?
A: Most passenger cars have turning radii between 5-12 meters, while larger vehicles like buses and trucks have significantly larger turning radii.

Q4: How does steering angle affect turning radius?
A: Greater steering angles result in smaller turning radii, allowing for tighter turns.

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This formula assumes ideal conditions and doesn't account for factors like tire slip, suspension geometry, or Ackermann steering principles.