Abstract

The objective of this paper is to investigate a class of general tire models that provides results suitable for usage in vehicle dynamics. Tire models currently used for vehicle dynamic analyses are overly simplistic (springs, a spring and damper combination or semi‐elastic substance) or based on curve fits of experimental data. In contrast, the tire models used by major tire companies are extremely complex with solutions possible only by finite element analysis. Between these two extremes exists the potential for an elasticity based shell theory tire model. Micro‐mechanics and composite laminate theories provide an integrated approach to the macroscopic behavior of the tire carcass and the tread support plies. This methodology has the capability of including centrifugal and friction forces. Finite difference methods are applied that produce reliable and accurate solutions of the tire response.