In the world of transportation, the interaction between tires and the road surface is a critical factor in both efficiency and safety. A recent study published in the journal *Mining, Construction, Road and Reclamation Machines* (Гірничі, будівельні, дорожні та меліоративні машини) sheds new light on this complex relationship, offering insights that could revolutionize the way we design and optimize vehicle performance. Led by Maksym Balaka from the Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture, the research focuses on determining the rheological parameters of the “tire-road” system, a crucial aspect for the energy sector and beyond.
The study delves into the intricate processes of elastic, viscous, and plastic deformations that occur both in the tire structure and the contact surface. “Understanding these processes is essential for developing accurate models that can predict the behavior of tires under various loading conditions,” explains Balaka. The research proposes both analytical and experimental methods to determine key parameters such as stiffness, modulus of deformation, coefficient of viscous resistance, and characteristics of internal friction. These methods analyze the static and dynamic behavior of tire deformations and the spatial distribution of contact stresses in the interaction zone.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is its potential impact on the energy sector. By providing a more accurate understanding of tire behavior, the study could lead to significant improvements in vehicle design and optimization. “Our methods reduce experimental complexity and increase the accuracy of parameter determination, which has practical implications for tire design, motion dynamics optimization, and transportation engineering,” Balaka notes. This could translate into more energy-efficient vehicles, reduced fuel consumption, and lower emissions, all of which are critical goals for the energy sector.
The study’s findings lay the groundwork for building numerical models of the “tire-road” system, enabling precise predictions of contact stresses, deformation patterns, and dynamic loads during vehicle operation. This could pave the way for innovative tire designs that are not only more durable but also more efficient, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the economy.
As the transportation industry continues to evolve, the insights from this research could shape future developments in tire technology and vehicle design. By providing a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between tires and road surfaces, Balaka and his team have opened up new avenues for innovation and optimization. The implications of this research extend far beyond the immediate scope of the study, offering a glimpse into a future where vehicles are safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.