Leading global tire manufacturer, NEXEN TIRE, announced that it is actively utilising cutting-edge technology in tire R&D to cope with the rapid changes in the mobility industry. The company is developing innovative tires using DIL (Driver-in-the-Loop) and VR (Virtual Reality) technology to evaluate virtual tire performance, and AI (Artificial Intelligence) to predict performance, thereby enhancing the efficiency of its R&D efforts.
On July 4, NEXEN TIRE introduced its 'High Dynamic Driving Simulator' as a virtual development tool for tire development - a first in the Korean domestic tire industry. The tire maker has partnered with Ansible Motion, for this initiative. The newly ordered Delta S3 DIL simulator and technical partnership agreement with Ansible Motion is expected to bolster collaboration with automakers, helping to shorten vehicle development times and reduce costs through accelerated virtual development.
Virtual tire development involves evaluating products using computer-modelled tires with mathematically simulated performance, thereby eliminating the need for initial physical prototypes. The Driving Simulator creates an environment that simulates real-world conditions without the use of actual vehicles, allowing drivers to assess virtual tire performance. This cutting edge equipment can accurately predict tire performance through real-time simulations, incorporating precise tire modeling techniques to real-world product design and performance evaluations.
With the introduction of the Driver-in-the-Loop simulator, NEXEN TIRE plans to predict and optimise the performance required for OE (Original Equipment) tires in advance, reducing time and costs while boosting its market competitiveness. Virtual development reduces costs associated with raw materials, vehicles, and space rentals while also shortening the testing period and processing time from prototype to finished product. According to a NEXEN TIRE representative:
We are committed to dedicating our R&D efforts to developing tires that are suitable for new concept vehicles in a timely manner. The product development process incorporating VR, AI, and other technologies aligns with our vision of opening a sustainable future with tomorrow's technology.
Even prior to the introduction of the DIL simulator, NEXEN TIRE had integrated both VR and AI technologies into its tire development processes. In 2022, the company established an 'AI Performance Prediction System' that uses machine learning to predict key tire performance metrics at the concept stage. This system enables tire developers to quickly and accurately forecast essential performance characteristics such as fuel efficiency, noise, handling, and grip, leveraging extensive test data accumulated over time.
The successful implementation of VR tire development processes and AI technologies improves competitive tire developments while also contributing to NEXEN TIRE's ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) management practices. Reduced reliance on real-world vehicle testing decreases fossil fuel consumption and significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with prototype production.
Read the full article in NEXEN TIRE's online newsroom.
