Tag: #automotive

Researchers Use AI to Create Optimized Engine Components That Outperform Human Designs

The gerotor tooth profile is crucial for determining hydraulic system performance in automotive engineering. In a new development, researchers from Pusan National University have leveraged conditional generative adversarial networks for machine learning-driven gerotor profile synthesis and optimization. The novel approach has remarkably produced designs that outperform human efforts and lead to 32% more efficient hydraulic pumps, potentially revolutionizing the automotive industry.

Gerotor pumps for oil circulation and lubrication are crucial components in automotive and hydraulic systems. They possess a compact design, excellent flow rate per rotation, and high suction capability. The gerotor tooth profile plays a significant role in determining the overall performance of hydraulic systems for engine lubrication and automatic transmission. Unfortunately, conventional design methods leverage predefined mathematical curves and iterative adjustments, which compromises their optimization flexibility.

In an innovative breakthrough, a team of researchers from the School of Mechanical Engineering at Pusan National University, led by Professor Chul Kim, has proposed a new design methodology. Their findings were made available online on 10 October 2025 and have been published in Volume 162, Part D of the journal Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence on 24 December 2025.

The key point of this study is the use of AI, specifically, a conditional generative adversarial network, as a design tool. Instead of relying on the traditional approach of using predefined mathematical curves, the researchers trained an AI to automatically generate new gerotor profiles. The AI learned from a dataset linking specific, high-performance profile geometries to their actual performance data. This innovation allowed it to understand why certain shapes perform better than others, and then generate new, highly-optimized geometries that substantially outperform traditional designs.

The team demonstrated that their novel AI-generated design exhibits substantial performance gains in simulation validation via computational fluid dynamics. Compared to a traditional ovoid profile, the proposed design achieved a 74.7% reduction in flow irregularity. This means the pump’s output is significantly more stable and consistent. It also shows a 32.3% increase in average flow rate, which indicates better volumetric efficiency, as well as a 53.6% reduction in outlet pressure fluctuation, which directly contributes to quieter operation and reduced vibration.

The most direct real-life applications of the present work are in the automotive industry. The reduction in pressure fluctuation and flow irregularity is highly beneficial here. It can lead to transmission systems that operate more quietly and could potentially improve component reliability by reducing vibration and unstable hydraulic stress. Furthermore, the 32.3% increase in average flow rate allows for more efficient oil circulation throughout the engine. This contributes to better lubrication and cooling of engine components, which is critical for engine durability.

Prof. Kim remarks: “The same principles demonstrated in our study are applicable to various hydraulic pumps used in industrial machinery, where efficiency, low noise, and reliability are important factors, making our technology highly lucrative for real-life adoption.”

In the next 5 to 10 years, methods like this could become a standard tool for engineers. It represents a move toward “inverse design,” where an engineer can specify the desired performance targets, such as “minimize pressure fluctuation,” and the AI assists in generating an optimal geometry to meet those targets. Moreover, this approach can speed up the research and development cycle for complex mechanical components. It allows for the exploration of a much wider design space than is possible through traditional manual iteration.

“Crucially, for the public, the adoption of more optimal components can mean the machines we use daily become quieter and more reliable. In the automotive sector, this translates to vehicles with more efficient and durable hydraulic systems like transmissions and oil pumps,” concludes Prof. Kim.

Reference

Title of original paper: Machine learning-driven gerotor profile synthesis and optimization using Conditional Generative Adversarial Networks

Journal: Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence

DOI: 10.1016/j.engappai.2025.112604

Image credit: Chul Kim from Pusan National University

Innovative Mica Insulation Solutions | Axim Mica

In a world powered by technology and precision, the importance of reliable insulation materials cannot be overstated. Axim Mica stands as North America’s only ISO 9001:2015-certified manufacturer and supplier of mica-based insulation products recognized for its innovation, quality, and customer-first approach. For over a decade, the company has led the industry with solutions that empower high-performance applications across some of the most demanding sectors in the world.

Axim Mica’s mica insulation materials are engineered to meet the needs of industries where reliability, safety, and efficiency are non-negotiable. From advanced aerospace systems to cutting-edge electric vehicles, Axim’s expertise ensures optimal performance where it matters most.

The Legacy of Innovation and Quality

Axim Mica’s journey is defined by its dedication to excellence. For 12 years, the company has been continuously certified under ISO 9001:2015 a distinction that reflects its consistent commitment to world-class manufacturing standards. This certification isn’t just a label; it represents the company’s promise of quality, reliability, and accountability in every product it delivers.

The company’s approach goes beyond merely supplying mica insulation; it redefines how these materials are designed, produced, and integrated. By combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, Axim Mica ensures every product delivers superior thermal and electrical insulation performance, even under the harshest conditions.

Every partnership begins with a simple goal: understanding the customer’s specific challenges and engineering insulation solutions that deliver lasting value.

Elevating Performance in Aerospace Applications

The aerospace industry demands materials that can withstand extreme environments, intense heat, vibration, and stress. Mica insulation plays a critical role in ensuring aircraft systems operate safely and efficiently under these conditions. Axim Mica’s precision-engineered materials provide exceptional dielectric strength and thermal resistance, making them a trusted choice for aerospace components.

From turbine insulation to engine wiring protection, the company’s mica-based products ensure aircraft reliability at every altitude. More importantly, Axim’s technical expertise allows it to customize solutions for aerospace manufacturers who require precision and performance without compromise.

Innovation isn’t just about creating new products, it’s about anticipating the evolving needs of industries like aerospace and delivering insulation solutions that meet tomorrow’s challenges today.

Driving Efficiency in the Automotive Industry

The global shift toward sustainability has transformed the automotive industry, making high-performance insulation more important than ever. As vehicles become more electrified and intelligent, the demand for efficient thermal and electrical management systems continues to grow.

Axim Mica’s materials are designed to meet these modern automotive challenges head-on. Whether used in braking systems, electrical insulation, or heat shielding, mica provides exceptional resistance to temperature and voltage fluctuations. The result is enhanced vehicle safety, improved component lifespan, and greater energy efficiency.

The company’s ability to collaborate directly with automotive engineers ensures that its mica insulation products integrate seamlessly into new designs, supporting innovation across conventional and emerging vehicle technologies.

Powering the Electric Vehicle Revolution

Few industries are evolving as rapidly as the electric vehicle (EV) sector, where innovation meets environmental responsibility. Axim Mica is playing a vital role in supporting this revolution by supplying mica-based insulation solutions that enhance the safety and reliability of EV batteries, motors, and power systems.

Mica’s natural properties make it ideal for thermal and electrical insulation in EV components, protecting them from overheating and electrical failure. Axim’s advanced mica laminates and sheets are engineered to handle the high voltages and temperatures typical of EV powertrains ensuring stable performance and safety for drivers and manufacturers alike.

As global demand for electric mobility grows, Axim continues to innovate in this space, helping manufacturers build the next generation of sustainable vehicles.

Supporting the Foundry and Steel Industries

In heavy industrial sectors like foundry and steel, insulation must withstand some of the most extreme conditions imaginable. High heat, constant exposure to molten metals, and demanding mechanical processes require materials that offer unparalleled thermal endurance and structural integrity.

Axim Mica’s insulation products are trusted in foundries and steel plants worldwide for their durability and resilience. From furnace linings to heat shields and electrical insulation components, these mica-based materials help optimize energy efficiency and equipment longevity.

What sets Axim apart is its hands-on approach to problem-solving. The company doesn’t just deliver products it partners with engineers and operators to provide tailored insulation solutions that improve safety, minimize downtime, and reduce operational costs.

A Team Driven by Expertise and Integrity

Behind Axim Mica’s global success is a team of dedicated professionals engineers, materials specialists, and technical experts who bring decades of industry knowledge to every project. Many team members have worked directly in the industries Axim serves, giving them unique insight into the real-world challenges their clients face.

This insider expertise allows the company to provide practical, results-driven recommendations that go beyond generic solutions. Whether it’s optimizing a production process or improving insulation efficiency, Axim’s team approaches every task with precision and a deep understanding of the client’s needs.

It’s this personalized, collaborative philosophy that has made Axim Mica a trusted partner to manufacturers and engineers worldwide.

Innovation That Moves Industries Forward

At its core, Axim Mica is more than a materials manufacturer, it’s an innovation partner. The company invests continually in research and development to stay ahead of evolving industry standards and customer expectations. This commitment ensures that its mica insulation products not only meet current demands but also anticipate future applications across emerging technologies.

From aerospace breakthroughs to advancements in electric mobility and heavy industry, Axim’s insulation solutions are helping shape the future of engineering performance.
Please find relevant business stories here. 

A Trusted Partner for the Future

In an era where technology, efficiency, and sustainability intersect, Axim Mica remains a benchmark for quality and innovation. Its customer-driven approach, combined with a relentless pursuit of excellence, continues to set new standards for mica-based insulation manufacturing.

Choosing Axim Mica means choosing a partner that values precision, integrity, and long-term success. As industries continue to evolve, the company’s focus remains clear: to provide insulation solutions that empower innovation, enhance performance, and move the world forward one layer of mica at a time.

What is a Car Head-Up Display (HUD) and Why You Need One

The Future of Driving Comfort: Automotive Tech That Keeps Eyes On The Road

Every year we are provided with the latest automobile technology that continues to improve our safety and also enhance the driving experience. One of the newest features to come out is the head-up display (HUD), a feature designed to project essential information such as speed, RPMs, boost levels,  and in some models, turn-by-turn navigation directly in front of the driver. Some cars come with these displays already installed, but there are many aftermarket options for those who want to add them. Find out what a heads-up display is and why it could be a valuable addition to your driving experience.

How Does a Car HUD Work?

A heads-up display is a device that can receive data from your car’s computer and show it to you in various formats. The data is projected onto a little screen mounted in a visible area, or on the windscreen of your car, allowing you to see legible numbers and characters directly as you drive. Some advanced HUD systems even integrate smartphone features, giving you access to messages, GPS directions, and other information.

For cars that don’t come with a head-up display pre-installed, you can easily add an aftermarket system. These devices connect to your car’s computer through the OBD-II port and can be mounted using suction cups or adhesive. Many aftermarket HUDs offer even more features than factory models, letting you see the current music playing, turn-by-turn driving directions, and much more. You can find more information here about how these systems are engineered and the different features they can provide.

Why are Head-Up Displays Fitted In Cars?

Aside from being a popular feature among tech enthusiasts, head-up displays offer a number of benefits to drivers, which is making them a more prevalent feature in cars today. One of the main benefits of HUDs is that they help to keep drivers safer. Studies indicate that HUDs greatly improve safety by decreasing driver distraction, as they require less time for drivers to check important driving information. By having important information in the driver’s sight line, they can concentrate on the road.

Navigating becomes seamless and more intuitive as well. We’ve all experienced that stressful moment when we make a wrong turn and are forced to be distracted and look down at our sat nav directions to get back on the route. A head-up display eliminates the need of using a separate smartphone or GPS device, which minimises missed turns or getting lost.

Conclusion

Head-up displays (HUDs) are changing the game and making a big impact in the automotive industry. If you are in the market for a car, now is the best time to think of a vehicle with HUD technology. While it may seem like a small modification, this upgrade will significantly enhance your driving experience, giving you greater control, information, and safety on the road.

VDIAGTOOL VD70S wireless automotive diagnostic tool review

The VDIAGTOOL VD70S wireless automotive diagnostic tool is a kit for the more serious motorist or mechanic packed with more features than any other kit I have tested in the past.

Coming in a solid frame this is also very robust and will stand the test of time and serve its purpose with ease and these tools do get an awful life over their duration.

These kits are a daily tool for any garage these days ableit they charge you to plug it in and if you have one of these you can go to your dealer or garage with ammo at hand to save you the costly fees they charge to plug in their own and stop them trying to tell you that you have issues that do not exist in my past experience I have been charge 99 euro once and 130 euro just to have them plug in their own diagnostic tool.

The tablet itself has a 7 inch screen and gives more information at a glance than most I have tried before if not all so this is good to have so much information right in front of you without the need to be scrolling.

There is support for all countries on this and broke down into regions you can find your vehicle on the list or just plug it into your OBD port and let it find it for you it works well and fast as I have tested on two vehicles with no issues.

You have Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity giving you a smooth experience with no lag in results or speed.

Designed for DIY enthusiasts tackling common issues such as engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS, the VDIAGTOOL VD70 S vehicle scanner offers targeted diagnostic solutions. It efficiently reads and clears fault codes while analyzing data streams, ensuring quick identification of problems.

In the images below you can see what the UI looks like and what is on offer and we also show live testing on two videos below and walk through the experince which is simple and not to complicated even for novice users.

Each time this is turned on you will get updates so make sure you accept them this also stands testament to their support of the product which again is a great selling point and good to see as over the last while testing I have seen the updates come in each time.

Check the video below for more.

The UI and Menu on tablet 

 

 

Key Features of the VD70S:

  • ECU Coding & FCA AutoAuth:Advanced capabilities typically found in high-end tools.
  • Full Bi-Directional Testing & Active Component Control:Comprehensive diagnostics at your fingertips.
  • Broad Compatibility:Works with over 10,000 vehicle models.
  • 8-in-1 Live Data Display:More data options compared to standard 4-in-1 tools.
  • WiFi & Type-C 2-in-1 Connection:30x faster than Bluetooth for seamless diagnostics.
  • Large 7-Inch Touchscreen:Intuitive and user-friendly interface for easy navigation.
  • Three Years of Free Firmware Updates to keep the tool up-to-date with the latest technologies.

Other diagnostics tools reviews

BUY

Video Review

Rain Technology Embeds Visual Security and Delivers Display Innovation From Smartphone to AR/VR

CES 2025, CEO Robert Ramsey, Ph.D. and Chief Scientist Michael Robinson, Ph.D. of Rain Technology, creator of the world’s most advanced directional display technologies, has shared expert commentary and select video explainers about:

  • The market outlook for emerging display technologies.
  • The big leap in visual privacy to combat shoulder surfers.
  • Key advances in AR and VR optical design to spur mass adoption.
  • Opportunities to capitalize on display innovations today.

The Market Outlook for Emerging Display Technologies

Whether for business or personal use, displays of all types are central to our everyday experience. However, the amount and type of information displayed, the types of devices themselves, the hardware technologies used to provide higher quality and more efficient images, and the situations in which these devices are used all continue to expand at an incredible rate. As such, significant market opportunity exists for companies developing innovative solutions. Experts in optics and photonics with a legacy in 3D cinema, Rain Technology scientists are radically changing the playing field for visual privacy and superior optical performance in emerging display technologies, which will transform the market by enabling the type of experiences that drive mass adoption through quality and comfort.

One of Rain Technology’s innovations that has been broadly adopted is Switchable Privacy™, a thin liquid crystal layer in the display that switches privacy on and off, preventing peripheral viewers from seeing sensitive content. See the details of how it works in this video: https://youtu.be/y05VX8Pundg. This has applicability across fraud prevention, securing confidential information, and ensuring personal privacy. It has already shipped millions of units through industry-leading partners. In addition, the company’s innovations in privacy have been successfully leveraged and deployed in the automotive sector. Specifically, No-Driver-Distraction™ helps create safer driving experiences by preventing driver distraction caused by light emitted from passenger screens, and Display Screen Branding™ provides off-axis brand promotion by manufacturers and retailers.

Rain Technology will subsequently be adapted to further define the future of AR and VR in gaming, business, medical, and military defense. Its patented approach, Anamorphic-XR™, which relies on common, easy to manufacture materials, delivers fundamentally superior capabilities to existing AR and VR optics to improve user experience, performance and comfort. It has the potential to significantly increase consumer adoption as well as time spent engaged with devices, opening new opportunities for consumer, enterprise, military and industrial uses.

A Big Leap in Visual Privacy for Every Device

Identity theft and data breaches are on the rise, compounded by mobile work, whether remote or simply in transit. Shoulder surfers, visual hackers, and snoopers are omnipresent. Although the market for adhesive-based privacy screens for smartphones, laptops and monitors is valued at over a billion dollars and set to double in five years, it is a stopgap, lacking the ability to be controlled by enterprise IT and security policy and compromising device performance and usability.

Consumers will begin to see device and display manufacturers as well as enterprise IT departments and application developers placing a higher priority on integrating software solutions with new embedded display technologies to deliver increased privacy and control at the source. This newfound level of security will put mobile privacy in everyone’s pocket and across laptops, point of sale, automotive, tablets, and other devices.

Rain Technology is powering this change. Its patented Switchable Privacy controls the viewing angle to protect enterprises and individuals from visual hacking, data fraud, and identity theft. Switchable Privacy is applicable across the displays for smartphones, laptops, POS and ATM terminals, automotive dashboards and in-cabin displays, and medical kiosks. See more about Switchable Privacy here: https://youtu.be/4IzHUionehY.

Key Advances in AR and VR Performance to Spur Mass Adoption

AR and VR devices have been hyped for decades but have yet to realize their potential. To achieve mass adoption, the device hardware must significantly improve in weight, power efficiency, brightness, image quality, and eye comfort. Rain Technology’s Anamorphic-XR represents a crucial advancement in the evolution of AR and VR features, functionality and performance.

Rising consumer interest and commercial long-term strategies from the major players in AR and VR will be complemented by substantial government investment in these innovations, particularly in headsets and navigation and targeting systems. This dual trajectory of technological enhancement, spurred by Anamorphic-XR, and strategic funding will propel the industry forward. This will effectively pave the way for broader integration by the leading AR and VR manufacturers into various sectors, ultimately transforming how people interact with their digital and physical environments. As these improvements are integrated, a surge in user engagement can be expected in terms of session time and application diversity, from entertainment to surgery to day-to-day interaction with the environment.

Opportunities to Capitalize on Display Innovations Today

  • Smartphones – Rain Technology is working with smartphone manufacturers to integrate its embedded Switchable Privacy display technology, ensuring peak performance in optical clarity, color and luminance, while providing Privacy Mode for optimal protection and Share Mode for collaboration. Available now for smartphone brands, display manufacturers, and component suppliers from Rain Technology.
  • Laptops, Tablets and Monitors – Rain Technology’s Switchable Privacy enables viewing in Share Mode and Privacy Mode as well as delivering best-in-class performance for image clarity, color and luminance. Available now to laptop brands and manufacturers from Rain Technology.
  • Retail POS – Customer and staff-operated POS terminal numbers are expanding rapidly, and customers are increasingly sensitive to their data being “visually hacked” or even their privacy compromised during cart review, transaction or tipping at point of sale. Optimizing POS devices for both retailers and consumers, Rain Technology’s Switchable Privacy enables manufacturers to deliver a Privacy Mode for consumer transaction security as well as a Share Mode for brand promotion. Now available to retailers from POS manufacturer Datecs and direct from Rain Technology.
  • Bank ATMs – With more than 3 million ATMs around the world, shopping, dining and withdrawing cash puts consumers as well as merchants, retailers and bankers at risk. Rain Technology’s Switchable Privacy enables ATM manufacturers to ensure financial service providers can mitigate the risk of data breaches, meet regulatory compliance, and foster consumer loyalty and trust. Available today to ATM manufacturers and supply chain providers direct from Rain Technology.
  • Medical Kiosks – Private patient information, governed by HIPAA regulations, is often displayed on screens across the medical environment, from check-in kiosks to registration desks to hospital nurses stations, pharmacies and more. Rain Technology’s Switchable Privacy enables manufacturers of monitors and tablets to deliver a Privacy Mode for patient privacy and Share Mode for collaboration. Now available to manufacturers and display providers across the healthcare industry through Rain Technology.
  • Automotive Displays – Bridging the gap between passenger infotainment and safe driving while meeting evolving legislative safety standards, Rain Technology’s No-Driver-Distraction controls the viewing angle and luminous levels so the display screens within the cabin can only be viewed by the intended audience (driver or passenger). Rain Technology’s Display Screen Branding delivers a unique in-cabin design and branding opportunity for marketers. Available today to automotive suppliers, tier one integrators, and brands both directly from Rain Technology and via display manufacturer Tianma.
  • AR and VR – The future of AR and VR relies at least partly on hardware device advances. Rain Technology is the first to introduce a patented optical design approach — Anamorphic-XR — that holds significant advantages over existing systems in the areas of image quality, color, field of view, brightness (up to 10x improvement), weight, and comfort. Currently available as a proof-of-concept demonstrator, Rain Technology is actively engaging with partners to integrate this technology into future device and wearable offerings.

To learn more, visit www.raintechnology.com.

CES 2025 news

Car subscriptions could be the catalyst for greener mobility in Europe

Europe’s recent uptick in electric vehicle sales hasn’t been enough to reverse a year in decline. According to international car experts, car subscription models hold significant untapped potential that could advance Europe’s green mobility.

Electric vehicle sales in Europe increased in October with a total of 124,907 new EVs being registered, representing an uptick of around 2% compared to the same month the year before. However, the small gain isn’t enough to turn around this year’s negative trend, as year-to-date EV sales are still 5% lower than last year, according to figures from trade organization the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA).

David Bailey, professor of Business Economics at Birmingham Business School, says that car subscriptions could be key to advancing the uptake of electric cars in Europe.

– Car subscription models are a great way for consumers to ‘dip their toes’ into the EV market. Drivers are sometimes hesitant about adopting this new technology due to high upfront costs and fears about range and charging and uncertainty regarding resale value, says David Bailey, adding:

– A car subscription model allows consumers to see if EVs fit their lifestyles and whether they are cost-effective for them. Car subscriptions don’t tie people down for long periods, so they can enable consumers to try EVs while minimizing risk.

Car subscription service :Dribe, which is owned by Denmark’s largest automotive player, Semler Gruppen, offers a fully digital customer journey and open-ended subscription, giving subscribers full control and the flexibility to adapt their subscription and vehicle to match their dynamic needs at their convenience – be it an EV or a conventional solution, says CEO at :Dribe Jesper Hill-Kjærsgaard.

– When the customer has the flexibility to choose, we see a greater variety in the car models that are picked. When longer drives or infrastructural uncertainty occurs, we often see people switching back to conventional fossil-fuel cars. However, our experience is, that once becoming accustomed to the many joys of EVs, people tend to stay with the technology, says Jesper Hill-Kjærsgaard, adding:

 – In this context, offering a selection of up-to-date EVs and fossil-fuel cars under a subscription model is an advantage, allowing consumers to weigh the pros and cons of different options and choose between them.

Untapped potential

Peter Wells, professor of Business and Sustainability and director of the Center for Automotive Industry Research, argues that car subscription services can play a key role in optimizing resource consumption in the transportation sector.

– When consumers pick large cars to meet very rare needs, the green transition of the automotive industry is challenged. The effect is that vehicles become over-dimensioned, which requires an unnecessary amount of resources to produce and maintain. Car subscriptions hold untapped potential for advancing green mobility by instead allowing consumers to change cars as needed, meaning new cars don’t have to be oversized all-in-one solutions, says Peter Wells.

Despite the promise held by car subscriptions, Peter Wells points out that it will be a challenge to change the automotive industry’s inclination for sticking to tradition. Out of respect for established practices, :Dribe focuses on uniting traditional business models with digital opportunities that can ease the transition to future mobility solutions.

– At :Dribe, we believe that sustainable change begins with a deep understanding of the industry’s needs and requirements, which have been a focal point during the development of our concept and digital subscription platform. We leverage the extensive knowledge and experience that the Semler Group has cultivated over more than 100 years of strong traditions within the auto industry, says Jesper Hill-Kjærsgaard.

:Dribe is a digitally driven car subscription model for consumers and businesses, owned by Semler Group. Denmark-based :Dribe is internationalizing the company, offering a simpler, quicker and more flexible car access across the globe. Read more at www.dribe.io

Lero partners with Arm to build prototype car cameras for enhanced road safety

Lero, the Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Research Centre for Software, has today announced an innovative new partnership with Arm, the global semiconductor and software leader. The research project, valued at €566,000, is designed to explore new technologies that will enable cars to see and react to their surroundings faster, more intelligently and more effectively.

A four-year collaboration between Lero and Arm, the ARMADAS1 project is focused on the development of next-generation car camera systems. The project will explore the optimisation of artificial intelligence to enhance how vehicles perceive their surroundings.

The research is being led by Professor Patrick Denny of Lero, who is Associate Professor in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Imaging at University of Limerick and an expert in automotive imaging.

The ambitious project is designed to help reduce road accidents by modelling advanced imaging systems for vehicles that are more responsive than existing technology.

“As car camera systems become increasingly sophisticated and AI is deployed across the vehicle, this research aims to explore the potential of smarter, more responsive imaging systems optimised for computers rather than humans. The collaboration between Lero and Arm could revolutionise the way vehicles perceive their environments by optimising cameras and sensing systems for AI processing, enabling cars to sense and react faster to their environment,” explained Prof. Denny.

“The automotive market is going through an unprecedented transformation and as part of this, we’re seeing an explosion in the demand for AI across the vehicle,” said Andy Rose, VP Technology Strategy and Fellow, Arm. “Bringing together Arm’s technical expertise and market knowledge with Lero’s internationally recognised software and computer imaging research capabilities, this project has the potential to drive exciting new developments for next-generation automotive vision systems.”

This research will benefit drivers, the public, and vulnerable road users. The project’s advancements have the potential to not only help make cars smarter but also empower chip manufacturers to develop innovative new products for this market.

ABLIC Seeks to Reinforce Its Position in the European Automotive Sector with New Focus on High-Value-Added Products

Analog semiconductor manufacturer ABLIC Inc. embarked on a new start under a new company name in 2018, against the backdrop of a rich history spanning over 50 years. In June 2023, five years later, Seiji Tanaka took office as the new president. While focusing on planning and development capabilities as well as high-value-added products, Tanaka is also strengthening initiatives in the European market.

In November 2023, ABLIC obtained development process certification for the most stringent level ASIL-D under the automotive functional safety standard ISO 26262. Furthermore, by acquiring VDA6.3, which is an important process audit standard for German automotive-related companies, ABLIC has established a comprehensive setup. The company is now capable of handling numerous customer audits, which helps to steadily strengthen its foundation in the automotive market.

ABLIC’s Representative Director and President, Seiji Tanaka is an accomplished professional leader who has accumulated over 35 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, engaging directly with customers around the world and building experience in sales and management. Before joining Seiko Instruments Inc. (of which ABLIC was a division of) in 2012, Tanaka was in charge of sales at the semiconductor division of Japan Motorola and served as the head of sales at Freescale Semiconductor Japan Ltd. Tanaka became an executive officer of ABLIC in 2018 when it became an independent analog semiconductor manufacturer. Furthermore, since June 2021, Tanaka has been serving as Business Officer of Semiconductor & Electronics HQ at MinebeaMitsumi Inc., following ABLIC’s business integration into the company.

Since President Tanaka has taken office, he has been proactive in releasing new products. Presently, the company has been focusing on products for the automotive market, including automotive step-down switching regulators that are housed in the industry’s smallest package, window voltage detectors that realize advanced functional safety with the industry’s top-class high-speed detection, and high-withstand voltage LDO regulators that achieve the industry’s highest PSRR and the fastest transient response.

Tanaka has a clear vision for ABLIC’s future direction, stating,

“We will focus on developing high-value-added products that can functionally differentiate us from other companies. In 2023, we also integrated with Samurai Semiconductor Corporation (SSC), a collective of experts who have been expanding semiconductor designs in the global market. SSC is a group of engineers with abundant experience in both digital and analog engineering skills regarding semiconductors, as well as front-end and back-end processes. In addition to strengthening our engineering resources, we have appointed a Chief Product Officer (CPO) with an extensive background in leading semiconductor planning and development in the medical device field. In the European automotive market, we place a high priority on clear communication with the engineers, from the early planning stages to the final development of high-value-added products.”

For over half a century, ABLIC has developed products based on its corporate vision of ‘Small, Smart, Simple’. The company plans to continue under this adage, which stands for miniaturization and low power consumption, shifting from single-function products to multi-function products while focusing on development that closely meets customer needs. In addition, ABLIC is working towards realizing a more proactive support system by providing simulation data to solve customer problems.

As part of its high-value-added products, ABLIC offers automotive products that perform with high accuracy across a wide temperature range, such as those compatible with AEC-Q100 Grade 0, and high-function products that consolidate multiple features into a single chip. These products also contribute to enhancing the safety of ADAS and AD systems with industry-leading features.

ABLIC is also working on the development of medical ultrasound imaging ICs for medical equipment, which are already being used in ultrasound diagnostic equipment by major Western medical device manufacturers. Furthermore, ABLIC’s flagship technology, CLEAN-Boost®️, stores energy generated from minimal moisture or electrically generating bacteria, boosts voltage from that energy, and converts it into electricity to enable wireless communication. This technology holds infinite possibilities for IoT development and is expected to contribute to the SDGs. In Japan, this technology is already being utilized in ‘battery-less water leak sensors’ within several buildings and factories, with plans to expand this technology overseas.

ABLIC has established a comprehensive network utilizing online distributors, and a robust support system of Field Application Engineers (FAEs), which are now present in the European market. ABLIC’s products have been adopted by major Tier 1 suppliers in the automotive field in Europe, which support vehicle, medical, consumer, and industrial applications worldwide. ABLIC is actively preparing to introduce renewable energy in their effort towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

ABLIC plays an important role in the analog semiconductor business within the MinebeaMitsumi Group, which has set an ambitious target to increase its sales to 300 billion yen by 2030. ABLIC is taking steady steps towards achieving this goal.

NIRA Dynamics hits milestone with 100 million TPI units, pioneering sustainability in the automotive industry

NIRA Dynamics, leader in automotive technology software solutions, proudly announces a significant milestone: the sale of 100 million Tire Pressure Indicator (TPI) units. This achievement not only underscores NIRA’s prominence in the automotive sector but also highlights its commitment to sustainability and cost-efficiency since 2005.

In a remarkable shift from traditional hardware-based systems, NIRA’s TPI technology, a software-centric approach, has revolutionized tire pressure monitoring. By eliminating the need for physical sensors in each tire, NIRA’s TPI has substantially reduced electronic waste and manufacturing costs, fostering a more sustainable automotive ecosystem.

Key Impact

NIRA Dynamics’ TPI technology has redefined the landscape of tire pressure monitoring by significantly reducing the reliance on physical sensors and the associated electronic waste. By introducing this innovative software solution in 100 million vehicles, NIRA has contributed to a staggering reduction of electronic waste, with an estimated 40,000 tons of electronics saved. This monumental achievement not only reflects NIRA’s commitment to technological excellence but also underscores its dedication to promoting sustainability in the automotive industry.

A Commitment to Sustainability and Cost-Efficiency

NIRA Dynamics has not only set a benchmark in technological innovation but has also conscientiously contributed to environmental sustainability. The reduction in electronic waste and the need for fewer raw materials resonate with global efforts to minimize the ecological footprint of the automotive industry.

“Our journey to 100 million TPI units is not just a testament to our technological progress but also to our dedication to a greener, cost-effective future,” said Lisa Åbom, CEO, NIRA Dynamics. “This milestone is a leap towards our vision of an eco-conscious automotive landscape, where innovation drives sustainability.”

A big upside for car manufacturers when selecting a sensor fusion solution like TPI is the fact that costs are kept at a minimum, while all TPMS legislation globally are fulfilled.

Looking Ahead

As NIRA Dynamics celebrates this milestone, the company remains committed to advancing automotive technology solutions that deliver sustainable, cost-efficient value-adding services to cars and drivers globally. Just recently, NIRA launched a big update to TPI – TPI UX, offering enhanced detection performance and improved graphical interface for increased safety and performance.

Also, the latest solution in production is Road Surface Alerts – warns drivers for hazardous road conditions, and Road Surface Conditions – offers enhanced decision-making for ADAS services in varying road conditions.