Abstract

Knowledge of the tire sidewall deformation is necessary for accurate modeling of the response of a pneumatic tire to applied forces. An experimental method, the moire fringe technique, is described which permits the contouring of the tire surface under all normal operating conditions. Results are presented for a series of tests which were conducted to determine the tire sidewall deformation due to static loading, centrifugal force, combined vertical and centrifugal loading, and high speed operation (during which standing waves are present in the tire sidewall).