Editorial Type:
Article Category: Research Article
 | 
Online Publication Date: 01 Sept 2008

Modeling of Tread Block Contact Mechanics Using Linear Viscoelastic Theory3

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Page Range: 211 – 226
DOI: 10.2346/1.2965832
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Abstract

In an effort to understand the dynamic hub forces on road vehicles, an advanced free-rolling tire-model is being developed in which the tread blocks and tire belt are modeled separately. This paper presents the interim results for the tread block modeling. The finite element code ABAQUS/Explicit is used to predict the contact forces on the tread blocks based on a linear viscoelastic material model. Special attention is paid to investigating the forces on the tread blocks during the impact and release motions. A pressure and slip-rate-dependent frictional law is applied in the analysis. A simplified numerical model is also proposed where the tread blocks are discretized into linear viscoelastic spring elements. The results from both models are validated via experiments in a high-speed rolling test rig and found to be in good agreement.

Keywords: tread block; contact force; linear viscoelasticity; viscoelastic spring
Copyright: The Tire Society
FIG. 1.
FIG. 1.

24-term Prony series curve-fit for measured tread compound property.

FIG. 2.
FIG. 2.

Setup of test using resonance method to validate material model.

FIG. 3.
FIG. 3.

Validation of linear viscoelastic material model via resonance method. (a) 298 Hz test; (b) 502 Hz test; (c) 1364 Hz test.

FIG. 4.
FIG. 4.

Normal stress distribution during contact.

FIG. 5.
FIG. 5.

Pin-on-plate tribometers used to characterize friction coefficient of tread sample.

FIG. 6.
FIG. 6.

Pressure and slip-rate dependent friction coefficient.

FIG. 7.
FIG. 7.

Discretization of tread block.

FIG. 8.
FIG. 8.

Tread block rolling test rig.

FIG. 9.
FIG. 9.

Comparison between modelling and experimental results. (a) 0.1 mm interference; (b) 0.2 mm interference; (c) 0.3 mm interference.

FIG. 10.
FIG. 10.

Normal and tangential forces on a tread block at 0.2 mm maximum compression (a), 150 rpm, (b) 300 rpm, and (c) 600 rpm.

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