Optimization of Tyre Design Parameters Through Finite Element Analysis and Correlation with Performance

Time to market cycle is a key issue for new product launch. Longer product development cycle time of tyre remains no more affordable. Traditional reliance on validation through physical testing of the product simultaneously getting reinforced by the virtual approach. Virtual tools allowing prediction of effect of change in design parameters on performance and in turn paving way for design optimization are gaining importance in reducing the development cycle time. Tyre properties often are conflicting by nature. e.g. low abrasion / more mileage and high traction / low rolling resistance. Thus, designing a tyre always involves an optimization of the properties. The Finite Element Analysis (FEA) method offers the tyre designer a predictive capability for tyre analysis with respect to tyre constructional changes for design optimization.

Based on this approach, the present study involves an array of a tyre varying in constructional details and iterative process using a non-linear FEA method. The tyre under consideration is a passenger radial car radial for Indian market. Several features in the construction have been considered in the iterations and the performance has been studied. Variable parameters were belt angle, tread material, apex height and ply turn-up height and the prediction of overall structural behaviour has been compared. Single and composite design matrix is included in the study where effect of individual parameters and their interactions has been verified. The results have shown good agreement with the theory and also with the experimental data of a couple of tyre properties. Tyre stiffness and handling parameter results correlate well with the prediction.