Testing focuses on developing advanced experimental methods, measurement technologies, and data-driven analysis tools that improve the understanding and prediction of tire performance. Research efforts span tire and component characterization, vibration and noise analysis, winter traction testing, automated data interpretation, and the development of standardized testing methodologies. By creating more accurate, efficient, and repeatable approaches for measuring tire behavior under real-world operating conditions, these projects provide the critical data needed to validate simulation models, accelerate product development, and improve engineering decision-making. Through innovations in sensing, automation, machine learning, and test system design, CenTiRe researchers are helping the tire industry reduce development time, enhance predictive capabilities, and deliver safer, quieter, and higher-performing tires for an increasingly complex mobility landscape.
Ongoing Projects
- Modal Testing of Cords for NVH Applications
Dr. Michelle S. Hoo Fatt — University of Akron
- Optimal Modal Testing and Automated Identification of Meridional Bending Modes of Radial Tires
Dr. Rakesh K. Kapania — Virginia Tech
Recently Completed Projects
- Tire Cord Properties for FEA Modal and Steady State Dynamic Analyses
Dr. Michelle S. Hoo Fatt — University of Akron · Completed 2025
- Snow Measurements and Characterization for Traction Prediction
Dr. Costin Untaroiu & Dr. Corina Sandu — Virginia Tech · Completed 2024
- Automated Vibration Mode Shape Characterization of Radial Tire using Zernike Moment Descriptor and Machine Learning
Dr. Rakesh K. Kapania — Virginia Tech · Completed 2024
