A method of modeling a tire is provided. The tire model is used in
simulating vehicle response to a simulated ground profile. The tire has an
undeformed envelope that defines the outer circumference when no forces
are exerted on the tire. The method includes the steps of mathematically
characterizing the tire undeformed envelope and a simulated ground
profile. Integrating the characterized simulated ground profile and the
characterized tire undeformed envelope with respect to the horizontal
direction such that a tire deformed area is determined. Calculating the
magnitude of the resultant force vector from the deformed area.
Determining the direction of the resultant force vector.
