Detroit Engineered Products’ Hex Meshing Tool helps technologically strong Tyre Modeling

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As tyre treads are made with Grooves and Rib features with different height and width, building hex mesh is no easy task along with the need of matched nodes at the interfacing segments.

This takes many hours to model and needs expertise in modeling. Detroit Engineered Products says its Hex Meshing Tool for Tyres makes this task automated and easy to execute.

According to DEP, its unique platform known as MeshWorks will assist the mesh model the 2D structure of the tyre and this 2D model can be used for analysis.

If the results give satisfaction, the 2D model can be converted to a 3D model. Calculations like applying the inflation pressure on the valve of the tyre and applying the load of the vehicle on the tyre to analyse the contact patch can be done in the 3D model.

Additional simulations on the 3D model such as driving simulations can be applied. Parametrisation and morphing techniques play a crucial part in tyre performance optimising the thread pattern to weather all conditions while ensuring that it has an ideal breaking behaviour.

DEP MeshWorks empowers quick mesh modeling with a high level of automation. It can generate a good quality mesh with minimal user inputs. The task doesn’t require a meshing expert and can be performed by an engineer.

Mesh modelling tolls

DEP MeshWorks’ mesh modeling tools apply to passenger car tyres, motorcycle tyres and off-road tyres.

“The complexity of rubber is due to its non-linear nature and this involves expertise and understanding that few companies possess,” said DEP Founder and President Radha Krishnan.

He further said that tools and methods to model this complex structure are significantly different than those of metals. Factors like depth of the groove of the tyre, rib thickness, structure, block and cut sections are critical as companies revaluate the tyre design.

Besides, the tyre specifications are different depending on the type – motorcycle, passenger car, off-road tyre, etc., he added.

Two components that affect the tyre behaviour- the tyre structure itself, and the air around it. Tyre design has to be such that it can withstand varied weather conditions of summer, winter and monsoons.

The way how tyre interacts with the road affects its behaviour, and it passes that directly to the body of the car, and in turn the passengers. As a result, tyre manufacturers and automakers work heavily in the tyre design area to get the specifications accurately, keeping in mind the passengers comfort and safety.

(With inputs from Automotive Lead Research Team)