Tyre model performance test: First experiences and results

The tyre model performance test (TMPT) provides information about the efficiency and problems of the simulation sequence from tyre measurements (tyre modelling and parametrization) to multibody-system (MBS) software integration. Based on test rig tyre measurements with respect to vehicle-handling behaviour and higher-frequency-range tests (running over a cleat; vibration modes), tyre models have to be provided in a way that they can be connected with the standard Tyre interface (STI) or a modified tyre interface to at least one of the three MBS programs ADAMS, DADS and SIMPACK. The test conditions and the simulation test rig were defined in advance by an international group of experts. Four tyre model providers participated for the handling (low-frequency) manoeuvres and four for the low- and higher-frequency-ranges. Since a planned feedback from the MBS simulation results (they were done by the MBS-program providers) to the tyre model providers was not completely finished, the results shown are preliminary only. For the steady-state behaviour, all tyre models show good agreement with measurements for lateral and longitudinal tyre forces while, for the self-aligning torque, larger differences appear. For ‘crossing of a cleat', all high-frequency-range models show good agreement with measurements as well but, for some tests ( e.g . sinusoidal sweeps), qualitative differences even between MBS programs for the same tyre model can be noticed. This indicates that the application of tyre models within MBS programs requires some preliminary testing and maybe additional checks before using them for vehicle dynamics analysis.