Constitutive modeling and validation of a racing slick tire model in a finite element environment

This paper presents the modeling and validation of a Hoosier R25B 18X6.0-10 racing slick tire using a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) environment. In parallel, the work shows a method of efficiently developing an FEA tire model for tire-road interaction estimation. To overcome limitations and the absence of material data from rubber and tire manufacturers, constitutive modeling of various tire parts is performed. Experimental validation for the tire’s constitutive modeling was performed through uniaxial tension tests with the ASTMD412 standard specimens and stress relaxation tests using the DMA TAQ800. This was repeated for various parts of the tire where the specimens were cut in perpendicular directions. The modeling of the tire uses solid elements in layers that interchange the tire materials in perpendicular directions. A comprehensive validation process was executed through static deflection at different camber angles, drum cleat, and rolling resistance tests. The FEA Hoosier R25B tire model simulation results demonstrated excellent agreement with the experimental tests within errors below 6%. This study outlines an efficient method to provide a robust FEA tire model that captures race tires’ complex mechanical tire-road interactions and contributes to advanced tire design and simulation tools for automotive applications.