Transient dynamic response analysis of 3-D patterned tire rolling over cleat

Transient dynamic response of a rolling tire impacting with a small cleat is analyzed by an explicit finite element method. A 3D tire model considering detailed tread blocks is used to accurately simulate the local tire-cleat impact process. The frictional dynamic contact problem is formulated by making use of total Lagrangian scheme and the penalty method. By imposing mass-proportional damping to only the tire parts showing the significant lateral deformation, the dynamic viscosity effect is artificially reflected. Time-history and frequency responses of the dynamic forces exerted on the tire axis are numerically predicted and assessed through the comparison with experimental results. As well as, the effects of the tire rolling speed and the inflation pressure con the transient dynamic response are parametrically investigated. (c) 2005 Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.