Italian producer of braking solutions Brembo and French tyre maker Michelin have tied up to exploit the full potential of their intelligent solutions to revolutionise vehicle performance and offer drivers safety and comfort standards, they say.
For this partnership, Michelin and Brembo combined their expertise: excellence in braking systems, vehicle modelling and artificial intelligence for Brembo; leadership in tyre modelling and algorithm development for Michelin. The innovation relies on the continuous exchange of real-time data between Michelin’s connected solutions software, which provides tyre grip data to Brembo’s Sensify braking system, to fine-tune the braking system.
Michelin says its tyre connected solutions rely on the group’s expertise in tyre physics modelling and simulation used in tyre development, allowing it to develop a software portfolio able to provide real-time information to the car, such as wear (Michelin SmartWear), load (Michelin SmartLoad) and grip (Michelin SmartGrip). Michelin adds its software works with all tyre brands.
The initial tests performed virtually and in the field are said to be promising. 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 Centre, where the simulation results were confirmed.
The tests demonstrated braking distance reductions that can reach up to 4 m during ABS events, with the same tyres in various conditions. This is said to be an impressive result, considering the average length of a car is close to 4 m. The braking system also showed quicker response time, minimised traction loss, improved lateral stability and the absence of wheel locking. All these factors contribute to a smoother, more comfortable driving experience.
Serge Lafon, President of the Business Line Automotive Original Equipment at Michelin, said, “Allowing customers to keep their tyres 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 tyres. Together, Michelin and Brembo are building a unique solution for the vehicles of the future, developed today by the car makers.”
Brembo says its Sensify sets a new benchmark for braking systems, natively developed for any modern vehicle. Its high flexibility, scalability and adaptability make it easy to integrate into any model. It combines Brembo’s braking components with a digital brain that leverages AI, algorithms and sensors to independently control each wheel. The result is an advanced braking systems, designed to deliver a driving experience and enhanced safety.
Daniele Schillaci, CEO of Brembo, further states, “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.”