Parametrical study of the tire properties to optimise the vibratory behaviour of a forklift truck.

The aim of this study was to analyse by means of numerical simulation the influence of the tire properties on the vibratory behaviour of a forklift truck. It was shown how to build a model with adequate tests to characterize the tires and forklift truck. This model was validated by comparing predicted results with experiments, according to the procedure defined in the European test code prEN 13059 [2].
A parametrical study was carried out in modifying the damping and stiffness properties of the tire model. The corresponding transmitted acceleration at the driving position was calculated, when the forklift truck was running over standardized obstacles.
This paper reports the results and comments of numerous simulations made within the frame of this study. They may help tire manufacturers to consider.