Optimal tyre management for a high-performance race car

W. J. West, D. J.N. Limebeer

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

15 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Optimal control is used to study the management of tyre performance for a Formula One car. Tyre friction is compromised by accumulated wear and operation outside the tyre design temperature window–inappropriate thermal operation accelerates tyre wear. In this study tyre wear is modelled as a function of the tyre surface temperature and the power dissipated at the road contact. The tyre's frictional performance is modelled as a function of temperature and accumulated wear. A previously developed thermodynamic model is modified by the addition of a state representing the tyres' carcass temperature. Optimal control calculations are used to optimise (multi-lap) performance by improving grip and extending the life of the tyres. In combination, tyre wear and friction control can be used to schedule tyre changes and minimise race times.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1-19
Number of pages19
JournalVehicle System Dynamics
Volume60
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022

Keywords

  • Formula One racing
  • optimal control
  • Thermal tyre model
  • tyre friction
  • tyre wear

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Automotive Engineering
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Mechanical Engineering

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