Sumitomo Rubber Industries has developed a groundbreaking technique to predict tire and vehicle noise using advanced tire rolling motion simulation.
This innovation helps manufacturers reduce noise, enhancing passenger comfort and streamlining the development process by cutting manhours and saving resources. The method also supports model-based development, promoting more environmentally friendly tire production.
Read on to learn more about this significant advancement.
What has Sumitomo Rubber Industries recently developed?
Sumitomo Rubber Industries has developed a new technique for predicting noise generated by the combined vibration of tires and vehicles.
How does this new technique work?
The technique uses a tire rolling motion simulation that assumes tires of a moving vehicle. It combines the performance of the tire alone and the vehicle alone using the transfer function synthesis method to predict roadway noise generated through the coupling between the tire and the vehicle.
What are the benefits of this new technique?
The benefits include:
Why is reducing road noise important, especially for electric vehicles (EVs)?
Reducing road noise is crucial because EVs generate no engine sound, making road noise more noticeable. Enhancing passenger comfort in EVs requires minimizing this road noise.
What methods were used previously to reduce road noise, and what were their limitations?
Various standalone tire simulation techniques were used in the past to reduce roadway noise. However, predicting the performance of the tire/vehicle combination was difficult because the noise is generated through the coupling of the tire and vehicle.
How does the transfer function synthesis method improve noise prediction?
This method allows for the assessment of axis vibration characteristics of a free-rolling tire, which are difficult to assess experimentally. It uses the combined performance data of the tire and vehicle to provide a more accurate prediction of road noise performance.
What validation did Sumitomo Rubber Industries provide for this new method?
They compared the axis vibration characteristics of stationary and rolling tires, confirming differences due to gyro effect and other factors. This validated the use of the transfer function synthesis method in the state where the tire is rolling.
How will this technique impact the development process of tires and vehicles?
The technique will simplify the prediction of road noise performance, reduce the number of tests with actual vehicles and prototype tires, and shorten development times while conserving resources.
What future applications does Sumitomo Rubber Industries foresee for this technique?
They plan to use this technique in developing tires for EVs, advanced tires, and in model-based development, as well as in promoting environmentally friendly tire development.
What is TOWANOWA, and how does it relate to this new technique?
TOWANOWA is Sumitomo Rubber Industries' Circular Economy Concept for the Tire Industry, featuring a two-ring structure with a “Sustainable Ring” and a “Data Ring.” The new technique utilizes data from the “Planning & Design” process to improve noise performance and enhance tire performance while reducing resource requirements.
How does Sumitomo Rubber Industries aim to contribute to sustainability with this new technique?
They aim to promote and practice ESG Management, contribute to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, and support the development of a sustainable society through effective use of resources and improved tire performance.
