Comparative Analysis of Non-Pneumatic Tire Spoke Designs for Off-Road Applications: A Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics Perspective

Abstract

This study explores the development of a terramechanics-based model for non-pneumatic tire–terrain interaction, focusing on different spoke designs. The research investigates how four spoke shapes (honeycomb, modified honeycomb, re-entrant honeycomb, and straight spokes) affect non-pneumatic tire performance in off-road conditions. Using the finite element method (FEM) to model non-pneumatic tires, and smoothed-particle hydrodynamics (SPH) to model dry, loose soil, simulations were conducted to replicate real-world loading conditions. This study utilizes virtual environment solution finite element analysis software to examine the interaction between a non-pneumatic tire and dry, loose soil, with a focus on calculating longitudinal and vertical forces. These forces play a pivotal role in determining the motion resistance coefficient. The results show distinct variations in the motion-resistance coefficients among the spoke designs on dry, loose soil. This analysis helps to identify the spoke configurations that optimize energy efficiency and fuel consumption. By comparing and evaluating the four spoke designs, this study shows the effect of spoke design on tire motion resistance. This study concluded that the modified honeycomb spoke design is the most stable and the least sensitive to operating conditions.