Automotive Engineering
Articles tagged with Automotive Engineering
NTU Singapore and AUMOVIO launch second phase of partnership to drive innovation for tomorrow’s AI-defined vehicles
The AUMOVIO-NTU Corporate Lab will focus on areas like AI, sustainability, novel materials, and connectivity to develop solutions for safer, smarter, and more sustainable transportation. The joint lab aims to accelerate innovations that can support Singapore's future mobility ecosystem.
Machine learning designs cheaper and rust-proof steel for 3D printing
A new class of ultra-high strength and ductility steel has been created using machine learning, achieving a rare balance of extreme strength and ductility. The resulting metal resists corrosion and degrades slowly in salt-water tests.
Vision sensing for intelligent driving: technical challenges and innovative solutions
Vision sensing systems are crucial for intelligent driving, providing critical road condition data and supporting autonomous driving functions. However, automotive-grade cameras face technical challenges such as limited dynamic range, low light performance, and image processing limitations. To address these challenges, researchers prop...
Hybrid ‘super foam’: tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable
Researchers at Texas A&M University and DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory developed a hybrid foam with a 3D-printed plastic skeleton, offering tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable properties. The composite combines ordinary foam with plastic struts, allowing it to absorb more energy and withstand greater forces.
Test platforms for charging wireless cars now fit on a bench
Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have created a rotating tabletop device to test dynamic wireless power transfer for electric vehicles. They successfully replicated conditions of a car moving at 40 kilometers per hour, promising accelerated research into next-gen charging.
JBNU researchers review advances in pyrochlore oxide-based dielectric energy storage technology
Pyrochlore oxides represent a promising next-generation approach to efficient energy storage, offering high-energy density, thermal stability, and low dielectric loss. Their potential applications include multilayer ceramic capacitors, power conditioning circuits, and miniaturized capacitors for aerospace electronics.
MambaAlign fusion framework for detecting defects missed by inspection systems
Researchers developed an efficient system to detect subtle defects missed by existing inspection systems. The MambaAlign framework captures long-range and orientation-aware context using state-space refinement, achieving improved localization and detection accuracy without excessive computational overhead.
LIST tech wins "Oscars" of the composites world
LIST's patented infrared welding process enables rapid assembly of thick carbon-fibre-reinforced thermoplastic components, reducing weight, costs and environmental impact. The innovation is estimated to reduce CO2 emissions by 12.5 tonnes per wing rib.
TU Graz and Magna open the advanced driving simulation center
The Advanced Driving Simulation Center enables researchers to realistically test and optimize vehicles, chassis, and advanced driver assistance systems. The simulator's high bandwidth generates fine vibrations, crucial for optimizing electric vehicle comfort.
Pusan National University researchers discover faster, smarter heat treatment for lightweight magnesium metals
Researchers at Pusan National University have discovered a new, faster method for treating lightweight magnesium metals using electropulsing technology. The technique, which involves applying electric pulses to the metal, can accelerate grain growth and improve mechanical properties.
Interactive cognition of self-driving: A multi-dimensional analysis model and implementation
Researchers developed a multi-dimensional analysis model to understand self-driving vehicles' behavior, incorporating perceptual and behavioral intelligence. The model enables rigorous evaluation of interactive cognition abilities, supporting human-vehicle-friendly interaction and fostering public trust.
SwRI tackles pre-ignition challenges in hydrogen-fueled engines
Researchers at SwRI have developed a reliable testing methodology to study stochastic pre-ignition in hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines. The methodology provides insight into lubricant-initiated pre-ignition events and supports further work on mitigation strategies and commercial lubricants.
SwRI identifies security vulnerability in EV charging protocol
Researchers at SwRI discovered a security vulnerability in the Signal Level Attenuation Characterization (SLAC) protocol used in electric vehicle-to-grid communications. The team successfully modeled and replicated a machine-in-the-middle attack that could manipulate or halt EV charging processes.
SwRI turbocharges its hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine
The upgraded engine features a state-of-the-art turbocharger, increasing peak torque from 1,494 to 1,760-foot pounds and peak power from 370 to 440 horsepower. The engine's peak efficiency has also improved to 44.0%, class-leading for a spark-ignited engine.
Cheaper cars pollute more than expensive cars, leading to emissions inequality
Research by University of Birmingham scientists reveals that lower-income individuals are more likely to own cheaper, higher-emitting vehicles contributing disproportionately to local urban air pollution. Spending an additional £10,000 on a diesel vehicle is associated with a 40% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions per litre.
SwRI uses machine learning to calibrate emissions control systems faster, more efficiently
Southwest Research Institute uses machine learning to automate calibration of heavy-duty diesel truck emissions control systems, cutting calibration time from weeks to hours. The new method improves system performance while ensuring compliance with upcoming standards.
Fractal-based metamaterial improves sound fields in car cabins
Researchers developed a fractal-based speaker add-on that reduces sound disparities between drivers and passengers in cars. The metamaterial, inspired by the Koch snowflake fractal, creates broadband wavefront control for a more even sound field.
Some like it hot: composite metal foam proves resilient against high stresses at high temperatures
Researchers found that composite metal foam can withstand repeated heavy loads even at temperatures of 400 and 600 degrees Celsius. The material's high strength-to-weight ratio makes it suitable for applications such as aircraft wings, vehicle armor, and nuclear power technologies.
SwRI, UT San Antonio collaboration uses machine learning to detect pre-ignition in hydrogen engines
Researchers are developing a detection system to identify pre-ignitions in hydrogen internal combustion engines (H2-ICE) using machine learning algorithms and onboard sensors. The project aims to address the challenges associated with H2-ICE pre-ignition, which can degrade engine performance and compromise its mechanical integrity.
Curbing roadway fatalities hinges on shared responsibility and rethinking safety
A Safe Systems Approach emphasizes that road users, designers, operators, policymakers, administrators, and healthcare professionals all have a role to play in reducing fatalities. By adopting this approach, countries can realize significant success in eliminating roadway deaths, but full commitment from stakeholders is necessary.
SwRI completes 8-year-long NEXTCAR energy efficiency project
SwRI's award-winning NEXTCAR project successfully completed its 8-year-long connected and automated vehicle technology project. The completed SwRI NEXTCAR vehicle demonstrated up to 30% energy savings compared to traditional hybrid vehicles.
Driving assistance systems could backfire
New research suggests that driving assistance systems can backfire by making drivers less attentive and increasing hazardous behaviors. The study analyzed data from over 195,000 vehicles and found that different types of warning signals trigger opposite effects on driving behavior.
SwRI advancing fuel cell testing for more efficient hydrogen-powered vehicles
SwRI has created a novel controller system to test fuel cell stacks under normal and extreme driving conditions, enhancing performance and efficiency. The project aims to develop predictive control models for humidity management, improving fuel cell performance and reliability.
Electric cars and their warning signals difficult to locate at low speed
Research from Chalmers University of Technology found that one type of electric vehicle's warning signal is hard for humans to locate at low speeds, even with background noise. The signal was designed for acoustical standards, but its detectability was tested in a real-world setting.
Electric buses struggle in the cold, Cornell researchers find
Researchers analyzed two years of data on electric buses in Ithaca, finding batteries consume 48% more energy in cold temperatures. Short-term strategies include storing buses indoors and limiting door opening time to improve performance.
High-quality OLED displays now enabling integrated thin and multichannel audio
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed Pixel-Based Local Sound OLED technology, allowing each pixel to emit different sounds. This breakthrough enables truly localized sound experiences in displays, enhancing realism and immersion.
UCF’s ‘bridge doctor’ combines imaging, neural network to efficiently evaluate concrete bridges’ safety
Researchers at UCF used a combination of emerging technologies to evaluate the safety of concrete bridges. By combining infrared thermography, high-definition imaging and neural network analysis, they can quickly identify defects and prioritize repairs.
A new super metal stands strong, no matter the temperature
Researchers at POSTECH developed a nickel-based high-entropy alloy that maintains strength and ductility across a wide temperature range from -196°C to 600°C. This stability is attributed to the presence of nanoscale precipitates, which inhibit deformation and accommodate stress through consistent slip behavior.
Kumamoto University researchers develop novel method for modeling periodically time-varying systems
Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a new mathematical modeling technique for linear periodically time-varying systems, enhancing the accuracy of control system models. This breakthrough has profound implications for industries relying on complex control systems, such as autonomous vehicles and aerospace applications, imp...
SwRI’s H2-ICE consortium launches second phase, H2-ICE2
The SwRI H2-ICE2 consortium aims to refine the performance and efficiency of hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicles. The two-year program will test the vehicle's capabilities under various real-world conditions, with a focus on commercial viability.
Pumps and valves made from ultrathin elastomeric films are lightweight and energy efficient
Researchers at Saarland University develop film-based vacuum pumps and valves that are lightweight, compact, and energy-efficient. These devices can create a vacuum of up to 300 millibars without the need for compressed air, motors, or lubricants.
AI in engineering
The article explores the role of AI in engineering, highlighting benefits such as improved transportation and manufacturing, but also raises concerns about safety, privacy, bias, and governance. The authors discuss weaknesses in data-driven models and call for research into regulatory frameworks to address these issues.
Incheon National University develops advanced communication technology for faster, reliable 5G and 6G networks
Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a new AI-powered solution to improve high-speed users' connectivity in 5G and 6G networks. The method significantly reduces errors and improves data reliability by prioritizing key parameters such as angles and delays.
E-mobility: TU Graz AI system accelerates the development of powertrains
The TU Graz AI system optimises vehicle components using simulation models and evolutionary algorithms to reduce development time by several months. It considers multiple objectives including production costs, efficiency and package space requirements, as well as CO2 emissions across the entire supply chain.
Navigating a safer path for autonomous vehicles
Researchers are developing a software framework for crowd-sourced 3D map generation and visual localization from camera data to improve real-time updates and low-cost visual localization. This technology aims to advance self-driving vehicles and enable fully automated transportation
A surgical fix to greenhouse gases
A University of Pittsburgh study uses life-cycle assessment to measure the environmental impact of ACL reconstruction and identify opportunities for reduction. The investigation highlights the significant carbon footprint of complex medical processes, emphasizing the need for sustainable innovations in healthcare.
WVU engineer protects mining equipment operators from fatal accidents with high-tech training headsets that visualize blind spots
A WVU researcher creates an augmented reality training program to enhance miners' awareness of blind spots and ability to identify hazards. The training technology uses visualizations to project blind spots directly onto the trainee operator's surroundings, reducing fatalities and injuries in the mining industry.
Making self-driving cars safer, less accident prone
A new AI model developed at the University of Georgia predicts nearby traffic movements and incorporates innovative features for planning safe vehicle movements. This approach helps reduce crashes and near-misses by consolidating two steps: predicting surrounding traffic movements and planning a self-driving car's motion.
Nationwide study looks at when and where EV owners use public charging stations
Researchers analyzed real-time data from over 50,000 public EV charging stations to understand demand and peak times. The study found high demand during working hours in California and identified potential inequities in access to EV charging facilities across diverse communities.
Engineered receptors help the immune system home in on cancer
Researchers at University of California - San Francisco designed biological sensors that can ensure engineered cells are activated in tumor environments, making cancer therapies more effective. The new sensors, called SNIPRs, can bind to soluble molecules and alter gene expression, offering a promising approach for targeted therapies.
Virginia Tech selected to lead $11.6 million research study for industrial decarbonization in the Roanoke Valley
A research team led by Virginia Tech will test the geologic conditions at the Roanoke Cement Plant for storing 1.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide each year for three decades. The project aims to prevent estimated 50 million metric tons of carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere.
National Science Foundation supports Hoda Eldardiry's research to enhance AI ethics education
Hoda Eldardiry receives $349,360 grant from NSF to develop practical competencies for students to apply ethical principles in AI system design. Her team aims to engage industry professionals to translate AI ethics into concrete decision-making.
WVU researchers develop microwave technology for recycling one of most popular, least reusable plastics
Researchers at WVU have developed microwave technology to recover propylene from polypropylene waste, which can be reused in new plastics or products. The process uses precise control and lower temperatures than traditional methods, offering energy efficiency and reduced emissions.
New battery cathode material could revolutionize EV market and energy storage
A new, low-cost cathode material developed by Georgia Tech's Hailong Chen could transform the electric vehicle (EV) market and large-scale energy storage systems. The iron chloride (FeCl3) cathode costs a mere 1-2% of typical cathode materials and can store the same amount of electricity.
Auto plants grew their workforces after transitioning to electric vehicle production
Researchers at the University of Michigan found that US auto plants producing battery electric vehicles have required a larger workforce than traditional internal combustion engine plants. The study revealed that assembly jobs increased by up to 10 times during the ramp-up stages of transitioning to full-scale EV production, with one p...
Dream Car examines the momentous economic, political and social changes in 1970’s North America
The book examines the influence of automobiles on ideas about the future, technology, entrepreneurship, risk, safety, showmanship, politics, sex, gender, business, and the state. Prof. Dimitry Anastakis's work addresses the intersection of business, the state, and politics in post-1945 Canada.
Engineers from the UMA develop more accessible and versatile next-gen “digital twins”
Researchers from the UMA developed an open-source platform called Open Twins to create more accessible and versatile digital twins. This platform enables the simulation of real-world assets based on virtual replicas, predicting future behaviors and detecting anomalies, leading to more efficient companies that make data-driven decisions.
Stabilizing precipitate growth at grain boundaries in alloys
Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a novel pathway to stabilize nanoscale precipitates in alloys through nonequilibrium processes. By stopping precipitate coarsening, they can create stable nanostructures with improved mechanical properties.
Stabilizing precipitate growth at grain boundaries in alloys
Researchers have identified a novel pathway to stabilize nanoscale precipitates in alloys by utilizing nonequilibrium processes, stopping coarsening and resulting in stable nanostructures. This approach has potential applications in materials used for nuclear applications, batteries, and other industries.
Self-driving cars can make traffic slower
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that connected vehicles improve travel time through intersections, but automated vehicles without connectivity actually increase wait times. The study suggests that incorporating vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication is crucial for optimizing traffic flow.
FAMU-FSU researchers advance electric vehicle battery safety with new energy absorption design
The research uses paraffin wax-filled tubes to absorb impact and heat, protecting nearby battery cells from damage. The design improves the safety and reliability of electric vehicles by minimizing potential damage from crashes or thermal issues.
Leading the way to cyber safety on roads and highways
The University of Houston's CYBER-CARE research center aims to prevent cyberattacks that could compromise the safe movement of people and goods in the US. The center will focus on four goals, including exploring advanced theories to mitigate the impact of large-scale cyberattacks.
New 3D-printing method builds structures with two metals
Washington State University engineers have created a way to 3D-print two types of steel in the same circular layer using two welding machines. The resulting bimetallic material proved stronger than either metal alone due to pressure caused between the metals as they cool together.
Preventing vehicle crashes by learning from insects
Researchers have designed an algorithm based on insect neural circuitry to create a power-saving collision detector that can detect vehicles in real-life nighttime scenarios. The novel detector uses atomically thin and light-sensitive memtransistors, resulting in significant energy savings compared to existing systems.
Toward standardized tests for assessing lidars in autonomous vehicles
The three-year effort aims to establish a widely accepted protocol for comparing lidar performance. The first year's tests evaluated range, accuracy, and precision of eight automotive-grade lidars using a survey-grade reference. Results showed the distribution of measured values was not Gaussian, with significant errors in some cases.
Ultra-sensitive optical sensor can reduce hydrogen’s risks
Researchers at Chalmers University have developed an optical hydrogen sensor that can detect extremely low levels of hydrogen, allowing for early detection and alarm. The sensor uses AI technology to optimize particle arrangement and geometry, achieving sensitivity in the parts per billion range.
Fitting Advanced Driving Assistance Systems to all UK cars could prevent 24% of road crashes
Research by Lero and Motion-S found that fitting all UK cars with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) could prevent 24% of road crashes. Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is the most impactful technology, reducing three out of four most frequent accident categories.
Researchers take stock of the most promising control scheme for permanent magnet synchronous motors
A recent review article summarizes the latest developments in finite-control-set model predictive control (FCS-MPC) strategies for PMSMs. FCS-MPC is a promising approach to optimize drive systems, but challenges remain, including computational complexity and parameter uncertainty.
Physicists uncover new dynamical framework for turbulence
Researchers create new 'roadmap' for turbulence by analyzing weak turbulent flow between two independently rotating cylinders. They discover that turbulence follows a predictable pattern of recurrent solutions, which explain the emergence of coherent structures in turbulent flows.