Ducati has recently distinguished itself by playing the role of pioneer in terms of aerodynamics. Today, the Borgo Panigale firm is working on a learning system in collaboration with Accenture unveiled at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.
The idea is simple: equip the Ducati Desmosedici with 100 IoT (Internet of Things) sensors to collect as much information as possible during a test. Combined with data collected over the last few years, this information will allow engineers to simulate and evaluate the behavior of the motorcycle, regardless of the conditions (weather or track).
Technically, it is by using learning algorithms (machine learning) on all of this data that engineers will be able to optimize and predict the settings of their machines for each of the races on the calendar.
« To ensure our bikes perform to their limit on each of the 18 circuits on the calendar, we need to test as many configurations and scenarios as possible, » confides Gigi Dall’Igna. “ So far we have achieved excellent results in the laboratory. The ability to use old and new data will help us choose the optimal settings for our motorcycles. Our tests will be smarter. »
Today, 4 sectors have been referenced and more than 000 scenarios have been analyzed. The system aggregates speed, engine speed, brake and tire temperature. This information, accessible and simulated via a dedicated application, will allow Ducati to best prepare for the next tests and the development program.
The idea is to simulate and predict the performance of the motorcycle thanks to a wide choice of weather conditions and circuits using the 100 sensors and the learning system. This will allow “ reduce the time, costs and effort required during traditional testing, » according to Marco Vernocchi of Accenture Analytics. The system works and shows promising results.
« The first results of this solution are extremely promising. Gathering data from the bike and past races allows us to calculate many adjustment possibilities. It is a system allowing you to have a more intelligent and faster motorcycle. Engineers will thus have a real vision allowing them to make adjustments specific to each condition, » adds Marcello Tamietti, Connected Transport Manager for Accenture Digital.
This system can only be used during testing and not during a Grand Prix weekend, the number of sensors being limited by the regulations on a MotoGP.
Photos: copyright Accenture
