A NEW MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF THE TRACTION FORCE IN PNEUMATIC TIRE-SNOW CHAIN SYSTEMS

摘要

In this paper a new theoretical model to estimate the transmitted force in a snow-chain safety device is presented. Starting with a detailed analysis of the significant external forces acting on the system, the mathematical model is developed using some basic concepts of the contact mechanics theory. A MATLAB~? code was developed in order to perform numerical simulations and experimental tests were carried out to validate the model. The results obtained show that for certain conditions of the driving surface and the tire's tread the force transmitted along the chain can be several times the longitudinal traction force applied to the tire itself. The importance of the interaction between the blocks on the tire and the chain segments is discussed. Some conclusions and recommendations are made in order to improve the design process of this kind of devices.