CLERMONT-FERRAND, France — Group Michelin has signed a global agreement with brake maker Brembo to exploit the full potential of their intelligent solutions for vehicle performance and offer drivers improved safety and comfort standards.
Brembo provides its expertise in braking systems, vehicle modeling and artificial intelligence to the partnership, while Michelin offers its expertise in tire modeling and algorithm development, the companies said.
The innovation relies on the continuous exchange of real-time data between Michelin's connected solutions software, which provides tire grip data, to Brembo's Sensify braking system. These tire insights enable engineers to fine-tune the braking system with precision, further enhancing Sensify's characteristics, Michelin said.
Michelin's tire connected solutions rely on tire physics modeling and simulation used in tire development. Using in live vehicle data analysis, Michelin said it has developed a portfolio of software able to provide real-time information to the car, such as wear (Michelin SmartWear), load (Michelin SmartLoad) and grip (Michelin SmartGrip). Michelin's software works with all tire brands.
Brembo's Sensify offers flexibility, scalability and adaptability to integrate into any model, the brake maker said. The system combines Brembo's braking components with a digital brain that leverages AI, algorithms and sensors to independently control each wheel.
The initial tests performed virtually and in the field are promising, the companies said.
In the first phase, Michelin's tire models and algorithms were integrated with Brembo's intelligent braking models and vehicle simulations in a fully virtual environment.
In the second phase, physical tests were conducted on tracks at Michelin's Research Center, where the simulation results were confirmed.
The tests demonstrated braking distance reductions that can reach up to 13 feet during ABS events, with the same tires in various conditions.
The braking system also showed quicker response time, minimized traction loss, improved lateral stability and the absence of wheel locking, the companies said.
"We are thrilled to join forces with a brand like Brembo, a leader in its field. Our shared passion for innovation and excellence allows us to take a new step forward in enhancing user safety," Serge Lafon, president of the business line automotive original equipment at Michelin, said.
"Allowing customers to keep their tires in use as long as possible with total peace of mind is a core objective of Michelin, thus protecting their purchasing power as well as the environment. Today, Michelin is a 'data-driven company' where simulation and software development are essential tools in the real-time monitoring of tires. Together, Michelin and Brembo are building a unique solution for the vehicles of the future, developed today by the car makers," he said.
"At Brembo, we believe in the power of technology and artificial intelligence," Brembo CEO Daniele Schillaci said.
"In fact, we are increasingly becoming a company combining software capabilities with our expertise in the corner of the vehicle, mastering calipers, discs and friction materials with a unique know-how. Sensify represents the new standard in braking that will target a zero-accidents vision. This partnership with Michelin illustrates the power of collaboration and innovation in the automotive industry."
