Search Results

In this research, the influence of tire force and moment (F&M) characteristics on vehicle on-center steering performance was analyzed and then how to improve vehicle on-center performance was studied through controlling tire structure design parameter, tread pattern shape and tread grip characteristics. First, the relationship between vehicle on-center steering performance and tire F&M characteristics was identified by comparing vehicle steering measurements and tire F&M measurements. It was found that key factor of tire related with on-center performance is aligning torque at lower slip angles. As the aligning torque at slip angle 1° increases, on-center feel is improved. Second, the influence of tire design parameters on tire aligning torque was studied through F&M finite element (FE) analysis and measurement. It was found that the aligning torque at lower slip angle increases as stiffness of the tread and sidewall decreases.