Optimisation of driver actions in RWD race car including tyre thermodynamics

Abstract

The paper presents an innovative method for a lap time minimisation by using genetic algorithms for a multi objective optimisation of a race driver-vehicle model. The decision variables consist of 16 parameters responsible for actions of a professional driver (e.g. time traces for brake, accelerator and steering wheel) on a race track part with RH corner. Purpose-built, high fidelity, multibody vehicle model (called 'miMa') is described by 30 generalised coordinates and 440 parameters, crucial in motorsport. Focus is put on modelling of the tyre tread thermodynamics and its influence on race vehicle dynamics. Numerical example considers a Rear Wheel Drive BMW E36 prepared for track day events. In order to improve the section lap time (by 5%) and corner exit velocity (by 4%) a few different driving strategies are found depending on thermal conditions of semi-slick tyres. The process of the race driver adaptation to initially cold or hot tyres is explained. ARTICLE HISTORY

Special issue on the 4th International Tyre Colloquium

“…It is shown that there is value in the current rubber theory but considerable scope for further research on the mechanics of rubber friction exists. The sixth paper, written by Maniowski [6], closes the special issue by highlighting the importance of tyres in relation to vehicle handling. The author explores the influence of temperature-sensitive tyre characteristics on vehicle behaviour and driving strategy by solving the multi-parametric optimisation problem of the minimum lap time at a race circuit.…”

Non-Linear Model of Predictive Control-Based Slip Control ABS Including Tyre Tread Thermal Dynamics

“…Much of the literature on tyre thermal modelling is related to the accuracy provided in the simulations in model-based development of vehicles [17][18][19][20][21][22]. These models range from simple empirical-lumped models to high-fidelity finite element method(FEM)-based physical models.…”

“…Thus, to avoid the issue an of algebraic loop, the load transfer (∆F z ) was modelled as first-order dynamics [27], as a function of the tyre longitudinal force, as shown in ( 17) and (18). Thus, the load transfer was a state in the full-car dynamics, eventually increasing the DOF from 9 to 10, as seen in (20).…”

A numerical methodology for thermo-fluid dynamic modelling of tyre inner chamber: towards real time applications

“…From the modelling point of view, the research effort has been therefore addressed to the modelling and estimation of all those quantities not directly acquirable even with the state of art sensing technology, but which could represent a key factor in the continuous improvement of control algorithms and logics to be employed in the increasing expansion of interconnected and smart vehicles [4][5][6][7][8]. Different approaches for modelling the tyre thermomechanical behaviour can be found in literature [9][10][11][12][13] as well as various practical case studies [3,[14][15][16], which testify the attention payed to the topic.…”