Local Refinement in Isogeometric Analysis of Complex Tire Models

Abstract The capability of Non‐Uniform Rational B‐Splines (NURBS) to exactly represent conic sections makes Isogeometric Analysis (IGA) an attractive alternative classical Finite Element Method (FEM) for tire simulation. Application NURBS as basis functions geometry representation simplifies the generation computational mesh that can be directly obtained from software graphical design. NURBS‐based approximations field variables lead higher convergence rates and allow continuity across element boundaries. Moreover, tensor structure these permits usage additional advanced refinement techniques. contribution at hand focuses on application hierarchically nested in analysis. developed framework is based introduction global multilevel Bézier extraction operator [1]. This approach allows local existing isoparametric FEM code without violating its architecture. Within introduced framework, material models standard retained. Special attention paid modelling rebar elements within IGA particular. adopted unconventional method avoids drawbacks smeared formulations common numerical analysis does not require explicit definition reinforcing bars [2]. An check volumetric content compatibility employed concept with locally improved meshes. Numerical simulations rolling tires using are presented. complex composite tire‐models by means CAD‐software. All performed under consideration steady‐state Arbitrary Lagrangian‐Eulerian (ALE) description including finite deformations. A benchmark study closes this presentation.