Analysis of stress concentration and deformation of run-flat tires for passenger cars by finite element method

Abstract

The research aimed to study parameters affecting the stress intensity and stress distribution as well as the deformation of run-flat tires for passenger cars using the Finite element method. Both experimental methods and finite element methodologies were employed in the research process. The results were obtained by comparing the strain values from the two methods to demonstrate the consistency of both methods. The differences in their strain values were shown in the range of 10-16%, confirming the analyzing capability in this problem through the Finite element method. At the pre-processing step, both procedures and methods were proven with SolidWorks simulation program together with experimentation. These consequences were incorporated to assist the design of run-flat tires. Parameters affecting the stress intensity and stress distribution were evaluated to understand the effects on deformation of the new designed run-flat tires. The reverse engineering process was thus applied in the research process by scanning with FARO P06-05 and creating solid modeling 3D models with Geomagic program for SolidWorks. These could assist in designing the reverse- engineered tire pan. Three components were additionally designed to support the ease in assembling or removing run flat tires from the pan. Run flat tires were finally designed for passenger cars, typically the most common small cars. The weight of this car was limited at not more than 1,800 kg and the thickness of the wheel pan was 17 inches. The analysis information assumed that the vehicle's weight was distributed equally throughout all 4 wheels. The material used to make the run flat tires was a composite tire type that could withstand the pressure occurring from the weight of a passenger car. The results of the analysis demonstrated that the maximum stress on the run flat especially at the position where the run flat surface was in contact with the road was 30-45 MPa which depends on the location of contact with the road. Thus, it affected the stress distribution on the wheel pan. The parameters obtained from the study affecting the stress distribution and deformation were accounted to be such types of materials made for run flat tires, cross-sectional area, and width of run flat tires.