On the waveguide finite element method for modelling vibrations - general investigation and application to a cartyre

Abstract

Today, when modelling vibrations, the Finite Element Method (FEM) is often relied upon. Although being versatile, it suffers from the fact that at high frequencies, models often require an overwhelming computer power. One mehtod, being applicable to waveguides, that at least partly overcomes this problem, is the Waveguide Finite Element Method (WFEM). The present work aims at learning more about the WFEM and how it can be applied to car tyres. In order to be able to do so, due to lack of commerical code, a small WFEM-software is first developed. Subsequently, two relatively simple structures are modelled, these two examples showing how the method can be used and some of its advantages compared to other commonly used prediction tools, such as for example beam theories and "conventional" FEM. Finally, the method is applied to a car tyre. The considered tyre model is based on a number of simplifications compared to one previously developed, ref 1. Considering that the material data were not fully adjusted to the model, a fair comparison between calculated and measured mobilities was obtained.