Toyo Tire Implements Cutting-Edge HPC System to Revolutionise Tyre Design

Toyo Tire Corporation has recently upgraded its proprietary high-precision tyre design platform, "T-MODE," with a seventh-generation High-Performance Computing (HPC) system, manufactured by Hewlett Packard Enterprise. This development marks a significant leap forward in the company’s efforts to produce high-performance tyres at an accelerated pace.

Supercomputers have long been a cornerstone of Toyo Tires’ manufacturing process, with continuous advancements being made over the past 40 years. The company has also independently developed the software utilised for tyre structure analysis. This software is capable of simulating both tyre structure and vehicle behaviour, enabling a more scientific approach to optimising products to meet market demands.

Toyo Tire Implements Cutting-Edge HPC System to Revolutionise Tyre Design
Toyo Tire Corporation Implements Cutting-Edge HPC System to Revolutionise Tyre Design
July 23, 2024

In 2019, Toyo Tires took a significant step by integrating AI technology with conventional tyre design methodologies using Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE). This led to the creation of the innovative "T-MODE" platform. Today, as technological innovations such as electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs) progress rapidly, there is an increasing need for tyres that can support these advancements with enhanced performance and functionality. Speed and precision in tyre design have become crucial.

With the adoption of the latest HPC system, Toyo Tires has significantly enhanced the T-MODE software, slashing the calculation time required by designers to less than half. This optimisation accelerates the accumulation of simulation data, thereby improving the predictive accuracy of the deep learning model's "inverse problem" – deriving design specifications such as tyre structure, shape, and pattern from performance values. This advancement positions Toyo Tires at the forefront of responding to next-generation technologies.

The new HPC system facilitates a dramatic increase in the number of large-scale simulations conducted, including aerodynamic predictions and material property predictions. This capability is particularly beneficial for developing tyres with excellent rolling resistance and wear resistance, crucial for EV performance. For instance, the development of the large-diameter Open Country A/T III EV tyre for EV pickup trucks and SUVs, which launched in the North American market in February, has greatly benefited from the enhanced T-MODE platform.

As digital technology continues to evolve within the automotive development process, Toyo Tires is committed to refining tyre design and development precision, reducing development times, and advancing simulation technology. These efforts are aimed at creating an advanced CAE ecosystem, ensuring the company remains a leader in tyre innovation.

Visit: https://www.toyo.co.uk/

Understanding Toyo Tire's New HPC System and T-MODE Platform

What is the T-MODE platform?

The T-MODE platform is Toyo Tire Corporation's proprietary high-precision tyre design system. It integrates advanced simulation technology and AI to optimise tyre structure and performance, enabling faster and more precise tyre development.

How does the new HPC system improve the T-MODE platform?

The new seventh-generation High-Performance Computing (HPC) system significantly reduces the calculation time required for tyre design simulations. This enhancement speeds up the overall design process and increases the accuracy of predictive models used in tyre development.

Who manufactured the new HPC system for Toyo Tires?

The new HPC system adopted by Toyo Tire Corporation was manufactured by Hewlett Packard Enterprise.

Why is simulation technology important in tyre development?

Simulation technology allows for the virtual testing of tyre structures and vehicle behaviours. This helps in scientifically optimising tyre designs, reducing the need for physical prototypes, and speeding up the development process.

How does the T-MODE platform utilise AI?

The T-MODE platform incorporates AI technology to enhance traditional tyre design methods. AI improves the predictive accuracy of design specifications derived from performance values, enabling more precise and efficient tyre development.

What are some benefits of the new HPC system for EV tyres?

The new HPC system allows for more extensive simulations, which are crucial for developing tyres with optimal rolling resistance and wear resistance. These characteristics are essential for the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles (EVs).

Can you provide an example of a tyre developed using the enhanced T-MODE platform?

Yes, the Open Country A/T III EV tyre, designed for EV pickup trucks and SUVs, was developed using the enhanced T-MODE platform. This tyre has been available in the North American market since February and demonstrates the platform's capability to produce high-performance EV tyres.

What future advancements does Toyo Tire expect from the new HPC system?

Toyo Tire anticipates that the new HPC system will enable more large-scale simulations, further improving tyre performance and development speed. This will be crucial in supporting the evolving demands of next-generation mobility, such as EVs and autonomous vehicles.

How does the HPC system contribute to the precision of tyre design?

By significantly reducing calculation times and improving data accumulation, the HPC system enhances the accuracy of simulations. This leads to more precise design specifications and optimised tyre performance.

What role does digital technology play in Toyo Tire's development process?

Digital technology, including HPC and AI, is integral to Toyo Tire's development process. It allows for advanced simulations, precise design adjustments, and faster development times, ensuring that Toyo Tire remains at the forefront of tyre innovation.