Abstract
An analytical membrane model is used to study how wheel imperfections are converted into radial force variation of the tire-wheel assembly. This model indicates that the radial run-out of the rim generates run-out of the tire-wheel assembly at slightly less than the one to one ratio that was expected. Lateral run-out of the rim is found to generate radial run-out of the tire-wheel assembly at a ratio that is dependent on the tire design and the wheel width. Finite element studies of a production tire validate and quantify the results of the membrane model. Experiments using a specially constructed precision wheel demonstrate the behavior predicted by the models. Finally, a population of production tires and wheels show that the lateral run-out of the rims contribute a significant portion to the assembly radial force variation. These findings might be used to improve match-mounting results by taking lateral rim run-out into account.
Asymptotic Behavior of a Vibrating Membrane Model
