Radial Stress Prediction Model on Towed Rigid Wheel

Abstract

A prediction model of a normal stress acting on a towed rigid wheel was proposed. Model accuracy was discussed with the comparison of the calculated and measured data. Pope's model including a sinkage rate was coupled to the Bekker's stress equation to evaluate its effect. Wheel skid was predicted with an empirical equation obtained from experiment of the towed rigid wheel. A tangential stress which has not been modeled was predicted from the tangential to the normal stress ratio and wheel contact angles. The stress produced by soil rebound under the wheel has not been analyzed. The normal stresses calculated from the model showed the good agreement with the experimental data except the section where the soil rebound occurred.