Abstract
This study develops a multi-scale finite element (FE) framework, based on measured surface power spectral density (PSD) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), to predict the hysteretic friction of tyre rubber on rough surfaces. This problem is directly related to tyre modelling and simulation, where friction strongly influences grip, braking, handling stability, and rolling resistance. A more accurate friction prediction is therefore valuable for tyre simulation.
Small- and large-strain DMA tests were independently conducted to construct master curves and fit Prony series parameters, which were then applied in a sequential micro–meso–macro scale coupling with appropriate boundary condition transfer. The model’s predictions were compared with Persson’s contact theory and validated against experimental friction data, successfully reproducing the observed speed and temperature dependencies. Results reveal that incorporating large-strain viscoelastic properties substantially alters the energy dissipation distribution and shifts the friction peak across scales.
The novelty lies in the systematic integration of strain-amplitude-dependent viscoelastic input into a complete multi-scale FE simulation workflow, enhancing both the predictive capability and physical interpretability for realistic operating conditions