Smithers, Stackpole launch new tire modeling tools

AKRON — Tire testing and compliance consultancy Smithers Group and Stackpole Engineering Services Inc. have launched a tire data modeling toolset to support early tire and vehicle development.

The Virtual Tire Lab is a subscription-based, comprehensive toolset for analyzing raw data and comparing and adjusting virtual tire models for use in design analysis, simulation and model certifications, Smithers said.

Through this tool, users have access to a library of passenger and light truck tire models, according to the news release. And throughout the subscription period, new models — all MF6.2 UM14 Handling Models — are added, including popular brands, sizes and categories such as all-weather, all-season or electric vehicle.

"More and more, tire companies are turning to simulations and virtual tire models to test concepts earlier in the tire development process, especially as they integrate tire choices with new vehicle platforms," said Jim Popio, vice president of Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division.

"Recognizing a shared opportunity, Smithers and Stackpole Engineering Services have combined forces to accelerate our clients' market entry through this venture."

The virtual lab combines nearly 100 years of tire testing experience from the two testing firms, he said, noting the two companies have worked together for decades.

A Virtual Tire Lab subscription also includes an annual license to Agile Tire, Stackpole's flagship tire data analysis and modeling software.

"Agile Tire provides engineers with peerless tire analysis capabilities, and allows users to review, analyze and compare tire data captured at the Smithers Tire and Wheel Test Center, and tire models developed by Stackpole Engineering," said Michael Stackpole, president and founder of Stackpole Engineering.

"Users can also leverage Agile Tire to modify tire model parameters and export models compatible with vehicle simulation software and driver-in-the-loop (DiL) simulators."

According to Smithers, the Virtual Tire Lab is targeted for vehicle OEM development teams; tire manufacturers aiming to benchmark diverse models; and tier suppliers of suspension, powertrain, braking and steering systems seeking to better understand how various tires interact with their systems earlier in the design process.