Three-dimensional Ring Model for the Prediction of the Tyre Structural Dynamic Behaviour

This paper presents a structural model for an unloaded tyre, based on a three-dimensional flexible ring on an elastic foundation. The ring represents the belt and the elastic foundation represents the tyre sidewall. The model is valid till 300 Hz and includes a model of the wheel and the air cavity. This makes the model suitable for the prediction of structure borne interior noise. Unlike most ring models, which consider only in-plane modes, the presented model also predicts modes that involve torsion of the belt in the circumferential direction. The parameterization of the model, which does not require detailed knowledge about the tyre construction, is based on the main geometrical properties of the tyre and a limited modal test. Comparison between measured and calculated responses shows that the tyre-wheel model describes the dynamic behaviour with acceptable accuracy. Because the model is physical based, it could be applied to describe other operational conditions such as loading and rotation.