Tire Data Analysis to obtain Maximum Steady-State Lateral Performance of a Formula Student Vehicle

Abstract

 This paper describes an analytical study carried out to determine various parameters affecting a tire’s lateral performance such as camber angle, toe angle, vertical normal load on the tire and tire pressure. A method to consider all of the mentioned parameters and find the optimum value of each parameter which makes vehicle fastest and neutral steer in nature is followed. This method may be called a beginner’s method as, it does not involve any tire model. Being a simple method there are various factors which can be further involved in the process to increase accuracy. Such a discussion of further improvements possible is discussed towards the end. A constant radius turn is considered to simulate a steady-state condition, that occurs in the Skidpad Event. Primarily, these inputs may be useful to decide the suspension and steering geometries of the vehicle. Since the vertical normal load is a parameter in consideration the obtained result may also be useful for designing the aerodynamic nature of the vehicle.