Abstract

A geometrically‐nonlinear finite element model of a complete tire is used in an analysis for inflation and footprint loadings. Each reinforced layer of the tire is approximated as being homogeneous, orthotropic, and linear elastic. The finite element model used in the analysis allows the computation of interply shear strains due to inflation and footprint loads. Some numerical results on loaded tires are also presented and compared with those obtained experimentally.