ORCID

https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6988-6500

Abstract

An understanding of tire behavior is crucial to designing a Formula SAE racecar. What variables affect a tire’s performance? How can complex behaviors be modeled mathematically and evaluated with a computer? In this study, data for the Hoosier 16” x 7.5 – 10 R20 tire was analyzed and fit to a Pacejka Magic Formula model, then compared to the WashU Formula SAE team’s current tire (Hoosier 18” x 7.5 – 10) to evaluate the feasibility of switching to a smaller diameter tire. Possible advantages include significant weight savings and a reduction in rotational inertia; however, many other aspects of the tire must be scrutinized. This study focused on overcoming a particular barrier to this analysis: data for the longitudinal performance of 16” tires is not available. Thus, two strategies for estimating the 16” longitudinal behavior were explored: 1) predicting Magic Formula model parameters by training an algorithm on other complete models, and 2) predicting 16” test data by interpolating spline fits of other tires’ test data. Neither method yielded satisfactory estimations, but progress was made toward more efficient model fitting, and new insights for evaluating 16” tires were uncovered. A preliminary analysis of 16” lateral performance data found that the Hoosier 16 x 7.5 – 10 R20 exhibits significant tradeoffs in driving response and maximum grip compared to the team’s current tire. Beyond this study, next steps include incorporating the Magic Formula models into vehicle dynamics simulations, and ideally, doing physical on-car testing.

Document Type

Final Report

Author's School

McKelvey School of Engineering

Author's Department

Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Class Name

Mechanical Engineering and Material Sciences Independent Study

Language

English (en)

Date of Submission

5-28-2025

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