Non-linear three-dimensional finite element modeling of radial tires

A finite element tire model was developed in this study. In the model, the rubber compounds in tires were simulated by the incompressible element whic h was treated with based on the Lagrangian multipliers method. The non-line ar mechanical properties of the elastomers were modeled by the Mooney-Rivil in model. The corresponding material constants of elastomers were obtained from experimental data. Belts, carcass and bead were modeled by the equival ent orthotropic material model in which the effective moduli were determine d from the individual material properties of the rubber compound and cord b ased on the Halpin-Tsai equations. The contact constraint of a radial tire structure with flat foundation and rigid rim was treated with using the var iable constraint method. For the large deformation description of tires, th e Lagrangian method was used here. Numerical results showed that the model' reliability and convergency are fairly good. (C) 2001 IMACS. Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.