Find the torque for a vehicle wheel

In summary, to keep a vehicle with a wheel of radius r and mass m moving at speed v, a horizontal force of F must be applied at the wheel's axis. The torque needed to keep the vehicle moving at this speed is equal to r multiplied by F. However, it is unclear if this is constant velocity or if other factors such as drag or uphill movement are involved. The question also suggests finding the tangential force and horizontal acceleration, but it does not mention acceleration in the problem statement.
  • #1
MikeN232
1
0

Homework Statement


In order for a vehicle (wheel) of radius r [m] and mass m [kg] to move at speed v [m/s], horizontal force F [N] should be applied at its axis. Find torque τ [N⋅m], equal to that force that must be applied on the hub.

Homework Equations


torque τ = r × F

The Attempt at a Solution


find tangential force F^{t} , then find torque τ;
find horizontal acceleration a, from it angular acceleration α, and from it and mass torque τ
 
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  • #2
Hi MikeN232 and welcome to PF.
Did you do what you posted under "The attempt at a solution"? If so, please post it. If not why not?
 
  • #3
MikeN232 said:
find horizontal acceleration a,
The question statement does not mention acceleration. Instead, it gives the impression that this is constant velocity. That may be because of drag or because the vehicle is going uphill, etc.
The question wording is a bit obscure. I think it means that if a force were applied at the wheel axis to keep the vehicle moving at speed v then the force would be F. But instead, a torque is applied at the axis; what does the torque need to be?
 

1. What is torque?

Torque is a measure of the force that causes an object to rotate around an axis. It is typically measured in units of Newton-meters (Nm) or foot-pounds (ft-lb).

2. How is torque related to a vehicle wheel?

In the context of a vehicle wheel, torque is the force that is applied to the wheel to make it rotate. It is typically generated by the engine and transmitted through the drivetrain to the wheels.

3. What factors affect the torque of a vehicle wheel?

The torque of a vehicle wheel is affected by several factors, including the engine power, gear ratio, tire size, and weight distribution of the vehicle.

4. How is torque calculated for a vehicle wheel?

To calculate the torque for a vehicle wheel, you need to know the force applied to the wheel (from the engine and drivetrain), the distance from the center of the wheel to the point where the force is applied, and the angle between the force and the lever arm. The torque is then calculated by multiplying the force by the lever arm and the sine of the angle.

5. Why is it important to know the torque of a vehicle wheel?

Knowing the torque of a vehicle wheel is important for several reasons. It helps determine the vehicle's acceleration and maximum speed, as well as its ability to tow or carry heavy loads. It also affects the handling and stability of the vehicle, and can impact fuel efficiency and overall performance.

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