Aerodynamic surface functionalisation: tubular tyre sidewalls

Identifying the best-performing surface textures for improved aerodynamics quickly and cost-effectively. The challenge is to speed up R&D and prototyping phases by testing solutions directly on the real product, without lengthy and costly iterations.

Adaptation of a laser system to texture tubular tyre sidewalls directly. This approach makes it possible to generate different surface textures on real parts, under conditions close to end use, in order to qualify their aerodynamic impact quickly.

The challenge is to produce a variety of textures directly on a finished product without altering its mechanical properties or functionality, and within very short timescales. It is also necessary to guarantee the repeatability of the textures while allowing great flexibility in the patterns tested.

The tests identified textures delivering a measurable performance gain, with up to 60 seconds saved over a 40 km race at 50 km/h. Beyond the functional improvement, the solution offers a distinctive advantage in terms of image and innovation, validated in particular by successes in international competition (Tour de France, Giro, Ironman, triathlon).