Customer Reviews

Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics (R114)

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

My background is in computer engineering. As such, I have a basic understanding of kinematics, but approached this book with little knowledge of physics as specifically applied to vehicles.

I found this book to be a perfect first step into the field. It picked up essentially where my knowledge left off and provided solid coverage of the topics discussed. Due to the nature of the book--an introductory text--simplifications often had to be made; in these cases the simplifications were pointed out, often with references to publications covering the areas more fully. Furthermore, I felt that all topics were evenly covered--no one got undue attention.

Basically, the book was just what I was looking for.

My only significant pet peeves are the use of English-system measurements (I am more comfortable with metric), and a few cases of unexplained 'magic numbers' in formulas (it took me a minute to realize that 57.3 is the number of degrees in a radian). And plot and character development were pretty thin (grin).

This book provides a thorough yet easy to understand overview of vehicle dynamics and how they affect performance. The mathematical basis for all concepts are provided, as are graphs , illustrations, sample problems, and solutions. I highly recommend this text for anyone interested in vehicle dynamics

I first have to say I am surprised that I am the only one to give this book such a poor rating. From a "reading for leisure" standpoint, this book explains the basic concepts of vehicle dynamics pretty well; however, as a engineering book (from SAE no less), this is probably one of the worst books I have ever purchased in my entire educational and professional career.

As one of the reviews mentioned, the "unexplained 'magic numbers' in formulas" take time to get used to. I am not one to just accept formulas as is. As a graduate student, I like to know some thought behind the formulas I am using. In addition to the 'magic numbers', the author poorly explains many formulas. As an example, the author does not explain whether the sprung weight or total weight should be used when determining steady-state cornering. In all the formulas, the total weight is used; however, when determining changes due to body roll, only the sprung weight should be taking into account. Since unsprung weight only accounts for 5% of the total weight, maybe the author decided that was "close enough"; however, he should explain his reasoning in his assumptions. The author does this throughout the book.

This brings me to my next point: poor examples and very few examples. The review from the individual who said this book had great examples must have been a review for another book. I can count on one hand the number of examples in this entire book. The few examples that are used are grossly over-simplified and very poor in explaining the steps involved in finding a solution.

Additionally, the author rambles on too much. His wordy explainations could easily be condensed into fewer pages. As an engineer, I like conceptual explainations, but I don't like wasting my time either. One particular example that comes to mind is a formula written in paragraph form. Instead of just typing out the formula, the author takes a paragraph to write out the formula. After taking about 30 minutes of reading the paragraph and trying to find out the meaning of it (along with 2 other graduate students), I finally gave up.

Thomas Gillespie is able to explain the fundamental principles of vehicle dynamics in his book. For those new to the subject of vehicle dynamics, this work will lay the foundation for more advanced reading. Those with science, math and engineering degrees, or those familiar with technical literature, will find the reading easy to understand in comparison to some other works. This allows the reader to focus their attention on understanding the "big picture," and not getting lost in particular formulae. However, for those doing research in the field or pursuing this as a career, there are more advanced texts available.

Professor Gillispie did an outstanding job with this book. He provides a comprehensive introduction to the mechanics of tire forces, handling, ride-quality, noise, vibration, and durability. The level of detail is just right for those new to the field, or needing an occasional reference book. A judicious mix of theory and practice. Highly recommended.

Fundamentals of Vehicle Dynamics book arrived very quickly! It was in the condition described and perfect for my class at school!

This is an excellent book for the basics of vehicle dynamics. It covers the main topics in a straightforward, easy to understand way and has good examples. The only thing preventing a 5 star rating is that the book is a little dated having been written in the late 1980's. Some of the references therefore need to be updated.

Most dynamics books are kinda hard to read or dont give adequate examples/problems. I found this book to be useful and easy to read. It covers nearly every topic of the automobile from tires to ride and handling, braking conditions and aerodynamics. All pretty concise but worthwhile. The $100 or so will definitely be worth it. Makes a great reference book for any basic auto dynamics needs.

This book is very important for the vehicle dynamics studies. There are few books relating to this and the Gillespie's book is the start, but it's necessary for more specific studies.

If you are into equations, knock yourself out, this book has a lot of them, and for me, it explains them enough to understand them. I had to remember my days at the university, but it has definitely what I was looking for. I guess is a must for anyone trying to build a car seriously