Numerical analysis of the dynamic interaction between a non-pneumatic mechanical elastic wheel and soil containing an obstacle

An innovative non-pneumatic tyre called the mechanical elastic wheel is introduced; significant challenges exist in the prediction of the dynamic interaction between this mechanical elastic wheel and soil containing an obstacle owing to its highly non-linear properties. To explore the mechanical properties of the mechanical elastic wheel and the soil, the finite element method is used, and a non-linear three-dimensional finite element wheel–soil interaction model is also established. Hyperelastic incompressible rubber, which is one of the main materials of the mechanical elastic wheel, is analysed using the Mooney–Rivlin model. The modified Drucker–Prager cap plasticity constitutive law is utilized to describe the behaviour of the soil, and the obstacle is represented as an elastic body. Simulations with different rotational speeds of the mechanical elastic wheel were conducted. The stress distribution and the displacement of the mechanical elastic wheel and the soil were obtained, and the effects of different rotational speeds on the displacement, the velocity and the acceleration of the hub centre are presented and discussed in detail. These results can provide useful information for optimization of the mechanical elastic wheel.