Patent ID: 6580980
Filing Date: 2003-06-17
Classification: G01M

Abstract:
A method for rating the handling performance of tires, wherein selected tires are positioned on a test vehicle such that a tireâ€”test vehicle combination is subjected to predetermined maneuvers, and whereby ratings are obtained in accordance with such predetermined maneuvers, said method comprising the steps of:assigning at least one steady state rating, wherein a steady state rating relates to the handling performance of a tire when such tire in combination with the test vehicle is subjected to a predetermined steady state maneuver; assigning at least one transient state rating, wherein a transient state rating relates to the handling performance of a tire when such tire in combination with the test vehicle is subjected to a predetermined transient state maneuver; obtaining a g-value corresponding to the lateral acceleration of the test vehicle during a selected predetermined maneuver at which a predefined level of tire-vehicle instability is exhibited; and calculating an initial tire performance rating based on the steady state and transient state ratings from said assigning steps and the g-value from said obtaining step.