Sensing Core: SRI develops a smarter DWS technology

A further evolution of the proprietary DWS (Deflation Warning System) technology from Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. (SRI) makes it possible to detect road conditions, tyre loads and other information without the need for dedicated sensors, the Japanese manufacturer reports. SRI calls this new tyre sensing technology ‘Sensing Core’, and says it obtains the above information by analysing the wheel speed signals that are generated when a tyre rotates.

DWS analyses wheel speed signals arising from a tyre’s rotation and uses this information to detect and notify the driver of decreases in tyre air pressure. It was first launched in the European market in 2003 with its installation in the BMW 5 series (E60), as a component of the vehicle’s DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system. SRI reports that DWS technology has been adopted by numerous automobile manufacturers and can now be found as a factory standard feature in “countless vehicles” throughout the world.

“Based on the technical knowhow that we cultivated in the development of DWS, our new Sensing Core is the next evolution in DWS technology, an advancement that eliminates the need for an additional, dedicated sensor by instead utilising cutting-edge software to detect tyre pressure directly from existing wheel speed signals, thereby reducing the cost of installation and eliminating the need for maintenance.”

SRI explains that Sensing Core technology uses a proprietary algorithm to detect various types of information based on what is known about each specific tyre. The information is then shared with the driver and with the vehicle itself. “This advanced algorithm incorporates and takes full advantage of our extensive knowledge of various tyre properties, which we have gained through over 100 years of experience in tyre development,” shares SRI.

Moreover, by analysing and performing statistical processing of wheel speed signals, Sensing Core is not only able to detect decreases in tyre pressure, but can also estimate how slippery a road is, the load applied to each tyre and other information in real time. “And we can also look forward to further advancements to this technology in the future, including the ability to estimate tyre damage and wear as well as the ability to collect and analyse data on the cloud for sharing this information with other vehicles,” states SRI.

The manufacturer opines that Sensing Core isn’t just a technology that contributes higher levels of safety for drivers and passengers, it also foresees it playing a role in the rapid advancement of autonomous vehicle technology in the near future. “At SRI, we are committed to driving forward with the development of advanced technologies so that we may continue to contribute to the development of a safer and more environmentally friendly mobile society.”