Optimal tyre management for a high-performance race car. Issue 1 (2nd January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: West, W. J.; Limebeer, D. J. N.
• Is Part Of: Vehicle system dynamics. Volume 60:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 19
• Publication Date: 2022-01-02
• Subjects: Thermal tyre model -- tyre friction -- tyre wear -- optimal control -- Formula One racing; Motor vehicles -- Dynamics -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 629.231
• DOI: 10.1080/00423114.2020.1802047
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0042-3114

Abstract

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.