Wheel reinvented

“Conventional wisdom says you can’t reinvent the wheel. We have done just that. We have taken the wheel, given it brains and the ability to think and learn. It’s a huge breakthrough,” said Dr David Brown of the University of Portsmouth’s Institute of Industrial Research. The wheels use AI to think and learn as the car is being driven, making calculations and adjustments according to travelling speed and road conditions. University scientists are providing the AI systems for the wheels on the company’s prototype eco friendly electric super car. Microcomputers in the wheels perform 4000 calculations per second and communicate with each other. It is said to be the first time AI has replaced fundamental mechanics within a motor vehicle and could mean tighter control, a smoother ride and a safer drive, yet the driver remains in control of the car. AI controls the suspension, steering and braking systems, teaching it to adapt to bends in the road, potholes and other potential hazards. The information is retained in memory and used the next time the car encounters similar road conditions. Dr Brown added: “Traditional suspension means the vehicle dips when the wheels detect poor road surfaces and you get a bumpy ride, while a tight corner means the drag will slow the vehicle down. Electronic traction control and suspension will counterbalance this kind of drop and drag effect, but the driver won’t even know it’s there. It means a faster car, but a safer one.”