Title: Prediction of rolling resistance and steering characteristics using finite element analysis truck tyre model

Authors: Rustam Ali; Ranvir Dhillon; Moustafa El-Gindy; Fredrik Öijer; Inge Johanson; Mukesh Trivedi

Addresses: Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, UOIT, 2000 Simcoe Street N, Oshawa, ON, L1K 7K4, Canada ' Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, UOIT, 2000 Simcoe Street N, Oshawa, ON, L1K 7K4, Canada ' Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, UOIT, 2000 Simcoe Street N, Oshawa, ON, L1K 7K4, Canada ' Volvo Group Trucks Technology, Chassis Strategies and Vehicle Analysis Department, 26661, AB4S, 405 08 Göteborg, Sweden ' Volvo Group Trucks Technology, Chassis Strategies and Vehicle Analysis Department, 26661, AB4S, 405 08 Göteborg, Sweden ' Volvo Group Trucks Technology, Features, Verification and Validation America, 7900 National Service Rd., Greensboro, NC 27409, USA

Abstract: The purpose of this research is to provide insight into the design and development of a finite element analysis (FEA) model of a heavy truck tyre for the purpose of investigating rolling resistance and steering characteristics. Aspects considered include the effects of design parameters (tyre dimensions, construction, materials, and FEA modelling technique) and operating parameters (tyre inflation pressure, vehicle speed, spindle load, and road surface texture). The model was also developed to predict the effects of combined steering and camber angles on cornering forces, aligning and overturning moments. The findings of this investigation show that the multi-layer membrane material can accurately simulate the tyre carcass structure. Validation tests include the static load-deflection test and dynamic cleat-drum excitation test. The experimental data shows that the generated FEA tyre and wheel model qualitatively simulates a real heavy truck radial tyre. Further work is required to allow for accurate quantitative prediction and would vary largely with tyre construction.

Keywords: finite element analysis; FEA; truck tyres; tyre mechanics; rolling resistance; slip angle; camber angle; steering characteristics; simulation; tyre modelling; heavy vehicles; trucks; tyre inflation pressure; vehicle speed; spindle load; road surface texture; cornering forces; radial tyres; load deflection test; cleat-drum excitation test.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVSMT.2013.054475

International Journal of Vehicle Systems Modelling and Testing, 2013 Vol.8 No.2, pp.179 - 201

Received: 18 May 2012
Accepted: 12 Jun 2012
Published online: 19 Jul 2014 *

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