Tire-Rim Impact failure prediction using mathematical model

Early design or concept phase involve decision of key Chassis & Suspension parameters finalization, in which tire size selection is one of the most important aspect. Tire size affects overall vehicle ride & handling, steering performance and styling. In addition, it will dictate the majority of suspension packaging in subsequent design phase. An improper tire size selection can lead to major design changes in later stages and cause delay in the project deliverables. Conventional method of tire size selection mainly based on load rating using Tire standards like ETRTO, JATMA etc. is sufficient for vehicle application & basic durability point of view but lacks the insight for typical tire-rim impact failure mode. Aim of the study is to develop the methodology of predicting durability failure especially kerb strike event using simplified suspension-tire mathematical model, which will help in selection of optimal tire size or its specifications in early design phase to mitigate the impact failure. Use of FEA tools is popular approach to investigate this kind of problem. However, FE approach requires detailed modelling of the tire, rim, suspension and chassis. At early stage of new vehicle development, generally these details models are not available. However, data is available in later stage of project but by that time lot of constraints arisen and limit the scope of design changes in tires & suspension, chassis & body parts. This study becomes relevant in view of vehicle styling generally demanding for low aspect ratio tires, which are prone to failures in markets with high rough road application.