When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as airplane and automobile parts to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in the 1980s as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and patient-specific models to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
What's the most important thing on the morning commute for folks who drive into work? Is it the traffic, the weather, the gas in the tank, or the coffee? The answer is none of the above. The truth is, few things are more crucial to a safe and uneventful drive than the tires – the bridge between car and asphalt. Anyone who's had an untimely flat or a blowout can attest to the accompanying frustration.
Without good tires, even the safest, most luxurious cars cannot be trusted. As a result, some automakers have taken tire manufacture into their own hands. In addition, trusted names in the tire business have upped their efforts to develop reliable, high-performance designs. Together these companies redefine the composition of tires and provide their customers with a safer, smoother ride.
"Without good tires, even the safest cars cannot be trusted."
Fresh tracks: tire design gets an upgrade
Whether it's dreaming up innovative new models, implementing a second degree of functionality or improving safety, tires are getting the kind of attention previously reserved only for the cars themselves. It's for good reason – tire malfunction is a significant cause of motor vehicle crashes, according to a survey from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012 study found that in 9 percent of crashes nationwide at least one of the vehicles had tire problems leading up to the accident. In addition, tires underinflated by 25 percent or more were three times more likely to have a critical influence on a crash. That's why it's so essential that any new tire design undergoes analysis from product testing labs before it hits the road.
Better treads improve traction and safety
One major brand has released a tire with revamped treads to help it grip the road. According to a press release, Michelin will debut its new line, the Premier LTX Lite, via the newly-released 2016 Lexus RX. Testing indicated that the Michelin brand outperformed competitors on wet surfaces even when worn down.
One major brand has released a tire with revamped treads to help it grip the road. According to a press release, Michelin will debut its new line, the Premier LTX Lite, via the newly-released 2016 Lexus RX. Testing indicated that the Michelin brand outperformed competitors on wet surfaces even when worn down.
The key is the tread. Michelin's new EverGrip technology features additional grooves that emerge as the rubber wears down, providing extra traction in wet conditions.
"We worked very closely with the Lexus team to tune the Premier tire to meet the important safety and performance needs of the next generation Lexus RX," Thom Roach, vice president of Original Equipment Marketing for Michelin North America explained in the press release.
Electric cars might get a boost from its tires
At the Geneva Auto Show in March, some of the latest and greatest concepts in the automotive world were on full display. Some of these innovations might be years away, while others might already be ready to leave the garage. One of the former came from Goodyear and might eventually give Tesla cars a jolt – literally.
At the Geneva Auto Show in March, some of the latest and greatest concepts in the automotive world were on full display. Some of these innovations might be years away, while others might already be ready to leave the garage. One of the former came from Goodyear and might eventually give Tesla cars a jolt – literally.
The concept is a tire that provides electricity, and the science is sound, reported Engineering.com. Heat from friction and vibrations can be converted to electricity with the right materials, and those two ingredients are in abundance when a tire travels along the hot pavement. Goodyear proposed a design that would involve a piezoelectric, heat-sensitive material to harness the heat generated from the tires.
"A new concept tire might eventually give Tesla cars a jolt – literally."
There's no telling if or when this design may become reality, but Tesla would be wise to push it along. One major downfall of electric cars is the availability of an electrical outlet when the driver is out on a long trip. Tires that generate electricity would be a major win for Tesla and any other electric car company.
Concept tires react to changes in environment
Goodyear had another trick up its sleeve at the Geneva Auto Show – a tire that can sense differences in road conditionsand adjust pressure accordingly according to UT San Diego. The tire would feature three different settings that would change automatically depending on the pavement. A triad of tubes located in different positions would inflate under different circumstances – hence the concept tire's name, the Triple Tube.
Goodyear had another trick up its sleeve at the Geneva Auto Show – a tire that can sense differences in road conditionsand adjust pressure accordingly according to UT San Diego. The tire would feature three different settings that would change automatically depending on the pavement. A triad of tubes located in different positions would inflate under different circumstances – hence the concept tire's name, the Triple Tube.
The three inflation levels offer distinct advantages. The Eco/Safety is the highest inflation setting and reduces rolling distance. The Sporty mode provides the driver with a maximum contact patch to improve handling. Finally, the Wet mode prevents hydroplaning by inflating the middle of the tire and raising the center tread.
"These concept tires reimagine the role that tires may play in the future," offered Joe Zekoski, Goodyear's senior vice president and chief technical officer, according to the news outlet. "We envision a future in which our products become more integrated with the vehicle and the consumer, more environmentally friendly and more versatile."
No longer are tires just the black tubes on the four corners of car or a playground swing material. With the right material analysis, these new designs could help drivers stay safe under adverse conditions.
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