Publication

Digital Engineering / Systems Engineering
2022

A STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF GEOMETRY CHANGES ON A VEHICLE’S MILITARY LOAD CLASS

by Bernard Sia

Abstract

A study was performed to assess the effect of changes to the geometry of the Abrams Tank and Stryker on its Military Load Class (MLC). Using methodology defined per a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) document, a series of MLC calculations were performed for both vehicles at various weights, using base dimensions as well as modified dimensions, with changes made to either the vehicle’s length or width. The calculated MLC and associated Width Correction Factor was recorded at each weight, and the results were analyzed to assess how changes to vehicle length and width affect its MLC. Analysis results are presented in this paper, along with conclusions drawn from the results of this study.