Analysis of Load Characteristic and Contact Patch Characteristic of Support Insert Run-Flat Tire under Zero-Pressure Condition

Support insert run-flat tire is a kind of safety tire based on common tire structure. It has the advantages of simple structure, easy disassembly and strong bearing capacity. However, when driving under zero-pressure condition, it can not meet the requirements of heavy load, high mobility and long-distance. Aiming at this problem, the finite element model is established. The load and contact patch characteristics of the model are simulated by ABAQUS. The radial stiffness curve and the contact pressure distribution under zero-pressure are obtained. The results show that the radial stiffness curve presents a certain nonlinearity in the sidewall loading stage. When the insert contacts the tire, it is approximately linear. The contact pressure distribution cloud diagram under zero-pressure condition shows that there is warpage. The tire test bench was set up and the relevant test scheme was formulated. The radial stiffness curve and the footprint of the support insert run-flat tire under zero-pressure condition were obtained. The research results show that the simulation and test results are in good agreement. This research is of great significance to the performance analysis of whole support insert run-flat tire under zero- pressure condition.