Suitable Run-flat wheel shape for armored small truck

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to study the stress intensity in run-flat metal wheels and to design a new type of run-flat wheels that can be used in a small armored regular truck. Experimental methods and finite element methodologies were applied in the research process. The results obtained by comparing the strain values from the two methods demonstrated the consistency of both methods. The differences in stress values were in 10 -16 percentages, which could confirm the capability to analyze the stress distribution and deformation of run-flat by a finite element method. Proven processes and procedures in Pre-processing with SolidWorks Simulation were utilized to design run-flat wheels and a reverse engineering process was next used to create wheel rims and design the cross-sectional shape of new run-flat wheels made of composite materials which have an important reactant; a polymer group and aluminum oxide powder, added to enhance the strength. The designed parameters consisted of 1) the width of the run-flat wheels 2) the internal and external radius in which the internal radius depending on the size of the wheel rim and the outer radius which is a variable that determines the height of the run-flat wheels 3) the design of a lockset for tightening the run flat wheels to the wheel rims 4) materials used in the structure of the run-flat wheels and 5) tire pressure. The run-flat wheels designed and built into three-piece parts were designed for ease of wheel assembly or disassembly out of the wheel rims. By analyzing the intensity of stress accumulated in a conventional run-flat wheel (run-flat metal wheel), the stress generated in a run-flat wheel did not exceed the limit of the Yield stress and had a safety value between 3-5 times for new run flat wheels with a maximum stress of 26 MPa. Sizing and cross-sectional dimensions of run flat wheels thus resulted in stress which was in the range that could be withstood and acceptably employed. It was also possible to reduce the height of the flat wheels to make the rear flats lower and increase the width of the run flat wheels which would help distribute more weight to the wheel rims.