Award Acknowledges Benefits of BERUf1systems’ Infra Red TPMS

The recently released infra red tyre temperature and pressure monitoring system (IRTPTMS) from BERU f1systems has been selected as the 2009 Testing Technology of the Year at this year’s Professional Motorsport World exhibition. A panel of judges comprised of senior motorsport personalities, including an ex-Formula One driver, selected the DigiTyre IRTPTMS from Norfolk-based BERU f1systems to receive the award at the Cologne show.

The system is an evolution of BERU f1systems’ well-established DigiTyre TPMS, with the groundbreaking addition of an infrared element in the wheel sensor. This looks at the inside of the tyre’s carcass and is able to accurately measure its temperature, which is a boon for understanding tyre behaviour and its impact on the car’s vehicle dynamics. The show organiser comments that the jury was impressed by this innovative design: As awards judge Charles Armstrong-Wilson noted, “Every single system on a racing car is there for one reason: to get the most out of the tyre. Any technology that helps engineers better understand these crucial components is a powerful tool, and this is what BERU f1systems has delivered.”

DigiTyre IRTPTMS provides a raft of information for engineers in F1 and other series to optimise vehicle setup and tyre wear. Awards judge and racing car vehicle dynamicist, Jonas Jarlmark added: “This development pinpoints one of the key issues of vehicle dynamics – tyre carcass behaviour. Using this system, the measurement response time to the inputs from the driver and track to the tyre forces is shorter, and as a result the analysis of the data becomes more accurate and reliable.”

The switch to slick tyres in Formula One for the 2009 season meant DigiTyre IR had additional value as teams got to grips with the new rubber within a limited test window. For 2010, the limits on testing means the teams using the system have acquired significantly more accurate data for simulation and tyre modelling to develop next year’s cars.

On receiving the Award, BERU f1systems’ managing director John Bailey said: “The PMW Testing Technology of the Year Award is highly respected in our industry. For us to receive the recognition from such a prestigious judging panel is an extremely proud moment for everybody involved in the programme and validates our commitment to offering the most accurate products available.”