Title: Theoretical analysis on cornering properties of MEW based on mixed modelling method

Authors: Hongxun Fu; Zifeng Zhang; Xuemeng Liang

Addresses: School of Transportation and Vehicle Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo City, Shandong Province, 255000, China ' School of Transportation and Vehicle Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo City, Shandong Province, 255000, China ' School of Transportation and Vehicle Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo City, Shandong Province, 255000, China

Abstract: The mechanical elastic wheel (MEW) is a new type of non-pneumatic tyre, which is characterised by the elastic-rings and hinge-groups to replace the compressed air of ordinary tyres. A mixed modelling method was used to theoretically analyse steady-state cornering properties of MEW. Considering structure properties and using the basic theory of the brush model, a simplified theoretical model for steady-state cornering properties of MEW was set up. Test data of MEW cornering properties under different vertical loads was used to establish the fitting models on half contact length, lateral stiffness and sliding friction coefficient. Based on the steady-state cornering simplified model and the fitting models, the MEW cornering mixed model was constructed. Comparing theory simulation result with test result, it is indicated that the mixed model has relatively high prediction accuracy. Therefore, certain reference could be provided for optimising MEW structure and improving cornering performance.

Keywords: tyre; security tyre; non-pneumatic tyre; mechanical elastic wheel; steady-state cornering properties; tyre model; half contact length; lateral stiffness; sliding friction coefficient; mixed modeling method.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVSMT.2020.114982

International Journal of Vehicle Systems Modelling and Testing, 2020 Vol.14 No.4, pp.298 - 311

Received: 21 May 2020
Accepted: 02 Jul 2020
Published online: 13 May 2021 *

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