Riassunto analitico
Tire management is a critical factor in racing, with tire temperature and pressure playing a key role in optimizing performance on the track. This thesis presents a tool for estimating tire pressure based on temperature evolution. Given the viscoelastic and heat-sensitive nature of tires, a 2D finite element model based on heat transfer equations is developed using MATLAB. The model incorporates appropriate boundary conditions and material properties to ensure accurate results. Nodes within the tire cross-section are classified into four regions: the top, corresponding to the inner liner; the bottom, representing the outer layer; the lateral section, which comprises the sidewalls and the inner region, which constitutes the tire bulk. Heat generation occurs through friction and hysteresis, while heat transfer mechanisms include conduction, convection, and radiation. Frictional power generation depends on tire forces and speeds, making it highly dependent on vehicle setup, racetrack characteristics, and driving style. The model processes on-track data acquisition to determine longitudinal and lateral forces, as well as speed components for each tire. Finally, inflation pressure is estimated using liner and rim temperatures through the ideal gas law.
This work provides race engineers with a practical tool for optimizing vehicle setup, selecting the ideal cold inflation pressure, and refining race strategy accordingly with the driver.
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Abstract
Tire management is a critical factor in racing, with tire temperature and pressure playing a key role in optimizing performance on the track. This thesis presents a tool for estimating tire pressure based on temperature evolution. Given the viscoelastic and heat-sensitive nature of tires, a 2D finite element model based on heat transfer equations is developed using MATLAB. The model incorporates appropriate boundary conditions and material properties to ensure accurate results. Nodes within the tire cross-section are classified into four regions: the top, corresponding to the inner liner; the bottom, representing the outer layer; the lateral section, which comprises the sidewalls and the inner region, which constitutes the tire bulk. Heat generation occurs through friction and hysteresis, while heat transfer mechanisms include conduction, convection, and radiation. Frictional power generation depends on tire forces and speeds, making it highly dependent on vehicle setup, racetrack characteristics, and driving style. The model processes on-track data acquisition to determine longitudinal and lateral forces, as well as speed components for each tire. Finally, inflation pressure is estimated using liner and rim temperatures through the ideal gas law.
This work provides race engineers with a practical tool for optimizing vehicle setup, selecting the ideal cold inflation pressure, and refining race strategy accordingly with the driver.
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