Three-Dimensional Finite Element Modeling of Static Tire–Pavement Interaction

Abstract

A three-dimensional tire–pavement interaction finite element model (FEM) was developed, calibrated, and validated. First, a three-dimensional model of a radial truck tire was developed on the basis of tire characteristics reported by tire manufacturers using the finite element program ADINA. Contact groups between tire and pavement surfaces were then created, thus establishing a complete tire–pavement interaction model. Tire model properties were calibrated on the basis of measured load–deflection curves from one radial truck tire. The model was then validated by comparing predicted contact stresses with measured stresses from the actual radial truck tire. Contact stress analysis was conducted to evaluate tire responses under different levels of normal load and inflation pressure. Excellent correspondence between predicted and measured contact stresses was observed. This work appears to indicate that tire structure and geometry information reported by tire manufacturers, along with measured load–deflection data, can be used to develop three-dimensional models to predict tire–pavement interface stresses and their effects on pavement performance.