Goodyear & TNO collaborating on intelligent braking system

Tyres already play a key role in effective vehicle braking, but a marriage of tyres and technology can enhance this. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and Dutch research organisation TNO are working towards this end and are collaborating on a demonstration vehicle that will test the implications of connected tyres talking to the vehicle’s control system, specifically the anti-lock brake system (ABS).

Goodyear explains that connecting its intelligent tyres with a vehicle’s ABS system optimises braking performance for the situation and tyre state while aiding the vehicle’s steerability. Previous Goodyear studies indicate that integration of these two components can reduce stopping distance loss by about 30 per cent.

The study will look for more meaningful integration with the intent to optimise braking distance when considering tyre operating and road-surface conditions. Both companies are focusing on maximising potential safety and sustainability implications and expect to share results in early 2022.

Like-minded commitment

“There is a tremendous opportunity when you consider the information the tyre can convey to the vehicle in a connected environment,” said Chris Queen, Goodyear senior director, innovation technology. “TNO has a like-minded commitment to a better future, and we are excited to advance this demonstration to see how we can continue to improve vehicle performance.”

“TNO is focused on increasing the safety, efficiency and sustainability of traffic and transport and this collaboration is designed on saving every centimetre possible of braking distance,” said Ellen Lastdrager, managing director of the TNO Traffic and Transport Department. “We feel strongly that we can help reduce accidents and save lives as we better integrate tyres and braking systems.”

Connected tyres are the only part of a vehicle that touches the road, and that critical position allows the tyres to feedback information providing actionable information to the vehicle. Goodyear comments that its aim is for its intelligent tyres to “transform the way we drive” as mobility evolves and vehicles and cities become smarter.