Abstract: It is very necessary to replace experimental test by a numerical model of wheel impact test in order to reduce experimental times and improve design efficiency. A finite element model of A-alloy wheel impact test is established based on fully consideration of static and dynamic behaviors of impact test stand. The whole model includes impact block, wheel & tire assembly and test stand. The rubber supports are simulated by using spring-damper elements, and the prestressing of the wheel & tire assembly is applied as the initial condition, the impact process is solved by the transient dynamic explicit finite element software LS-DYNA. The simulation model is verified by comparing the simulation results with experimental results of the strain on some measuring points. It is obvious that finite element models have a guiding significance and practical value for initial design and development of the A-alloy wheel.

Key words: Car A-alloy wheel, Computer simulation, Finite element method, Impact test