Michelin, Safran unveil ‘connected’ aircraft tire at Paris Air Show

Paris – Michelin Group and French aircraft systems manufacturer Safran Group have presented what they described as “the world’s first" connected aircraft tire during the Paris Air Show, held 19-25 June.

PresSense, said a Michelin statement 20 June, comprises an electronic pressure sensor installed within the tire to improve and simplify ground maintenance operations.

Cooperation between the two French groups started two years ago to develop PresSense which is a wireless solution that functions as an embedded system.

An electronic pressure sensor in the tire collects information on the inflation pressure and the digital data is transferred remotely by a reader connected to a smartphone, and then to the maintenance database.

This, said Michelin, is a simpler process compared to conventional maintenance which requires manual pressure collection through the wheel valve and a manometer.

“We are pleased to partner with Michelin…, truly experienced in tire innovation and connectivity. Together we will be able to offer our customers a reliable, efficient and time-saving solution,” said Vincent Mascré, CEO of Safran Landing Systems.

Also commenting on the partnership, Frank Moreau president of Michelin Aircraft Tyre, said the development of the new product was a “real technological innovation, answering Michelin’s clients’ needs”.

The deployment of the PresSense project is scheduled for 2019.