Analogue Models of Rocking Suitcases and Snaking Trailers

A mechanical model is constructed for the stability analysis of two-wheeled suitcases and trailers. The main assumptions of the model are summarized and the linearized equations of motion are presented. The linear stability of the rectilinear motion is investigated, critical parameter values are determined for the different level of complexity of the model. Numerical simulations are used to verify the applicability of the model for the nonlinear analysis of the rocking motion of trailers.