New technology determines the pressure level by sound when tapping on the tire

Yokohama has begun practical testing of a technology that uses artificial intelligence to determine the air pressure level in truck and bus tires by the sound produced when tapping on the tire.

As noted by Yokohama, the new method of determining tire pressure does not depend on the driver's experience, while operating tires at the correct pressure level will allow logistics companies to reduce costs due to improved fuel efficiency, and also increase safety.

"Daily tire pressure checks on trucks and buses using a pressure gauge can lead to valve malfunction and air leakage," the company adds. "At the same time, real-time pressure monitoring can be an expensive solution, so tapping on the tire with a hammer remains the primary method of checking it. However, even for the most experienced drivers, it can be difficult to determine if the tire pressure is proper just by tapping on it with a hammer."

The new technology developed by Yokohama in collaboration with Metrika uses an algorithm that can distinguish the sounds produced when tapping on the tire and evaluate air pressure based on their analysis. A prototype of a mobile application has also been developed, which is currently being tested by a transportation company.

"Using the new technology, drivers will be able to assess tire pressure and the need to increase it by recording the sound when tapping," says Yokohama, adding that thanks to the new development, "anyone will be able to determine the air pressure in the tire with high accuracy without the need for any special devices or skills."

The testing is expected to help Yokohama improve the accuracy of the algorithm and the convenience of using the application, and the company also intends to integrate the technology into its tire management system for transportation companies.