#Japan #Nagoya #AI Technology #Sumitomo Riko #Ansys SimAI

Sumitomo Riko Leverages Ansys AI Technology

In an era where speed and precision are paramount in engineering, Sumitomo Riko is making remarkable strides by harnessing the power of Ansys SimAI technology. This innovative platform is drastically reducing the time required for simulation, enabling engineers to accelerate their design processes by over ten times compared to traditional methods.

Transforming Automotive Component Design

As a leading manufacturer of high-performance rubber components for automobiles, Sumitomo Riko has consistently prioritized the safety and comfort of its products. Engineers at the company understand that comprehending the behavior of various automotive components under extreme conditions is crucial. To achieve this, they often need to run extensive multiphysics simulations, a task that historically demands significant time and expert knowledge.

With the integration of Ansys SimAI, the workflow has undergone a significant transformation. This AI-driven platform quickly analyzes existing simulation data to develop highly accurate models that predict physical behavior across multiple dimensions, including mechanical, thermal, and chemical aspects. This advancement not only expedites the modeling phase but also streamlines the entire product lifecycle management (PLM) process.

Rapid Modeling and Efficiency Gains

One of the standout features of SimAI is its ability to generate high-fidelity models without the need for complex parametrizations. This feature allows engineers to focus on design without being burdened by the intricacies of geometry setup. For instance, the AI can predict the performance of components like vibration isolators and hoses in under five minutes—a task that traditionally took over an hour. Such efficiency not only accelerates product development but allows for rapid design iterations, fostering an agile response to market demands.

In practical terms, SimAI has demonstrated the capability to cut down simulation cycles by tenfold when evaluating the mechanical performance of rubber bushes, which are essential for minimizing shock and vibration in suspension systems. This acceleration opens up opportunities for more efficient workflows and faster turnaround times in design and manufacturing.

The Future of AI in Automotive Engineering

Noritaka Matsuoka, head of the analysis and experiment division at Sumitomo Riko, emphasized the importance of automation in workflows. He stated, "To stay leading in polymer innovation and comprehensive evaluation technology, we are working to implement workflow automation capabilities across the entire product lifecycle." Matsuoka view SimAI as a pivotal tool in their journey towards integrating AI throughout product development—a crucial step given the complexity and competitiveness of the automotive industry.

The collaboration with Ansys is also aimed at enhancing automation capabilities not only in design but also in manufacturing and product retirement processes. This holistic approach ensures that data-driven decisions are made swiftly and efficiently, particularly during the early stages of design, where balancing speed with accuracy is typically challenging.

Walt Hearn, senior vice president at Ansys, reflected on the transformative capabilities of AI in R&D, noting, "Modern product development begins with quality data and leading simulation solutions. One of the biggest challenges in R&D is balancing speed and accuracy during the early design phase. Ansys AI capabilities enable lightning-fast predictions, allowing customers to make informed decisions before prototyping begins."

Conclusion

As Sumitomo Riko continues to innovate using Ansys's advanced simulation technologies, the automotive industry can expect an evolution in the way components are designed, tested, and brought to market. This partnership exemplifies how embracing AI-driven solutions not only enhances operational efficiencies but also propels the quest for high-quality, safety-focused automotive components. The implications of such advancements extend beyond individual companies, potentially reshaping industry standards and driving future innovations.