Researchers develop soft sensor system to study rubber components
Akron, OH – A research team from the University of Akron, supported by funding from Hyundai NGV, has developed a soft sensor system designed to study the behavior of rubber components in automotive pneumatic systems. This academic effort, published in Smart Materials and Structures on February 27, 2025, represents a step towards advancing knowledge, as no prior research has specifically explored the use of soft sensors to examine rubber performance in this context.
Rubber is a vital component in pneumatic systems, such as air springs, contributing to flexibility and durability under diverse operating conditions. These systems play an important role in automotive applications by supporting load-bearing and enhancing vehicle performance. However, rubber components are subject to wear and degradation over time due to repeated expansion and contraction, making their study a critical area of research. Until now, this aspect has remained largely unaddressed by direct sensor-based approaches.
The University of Akron team introduced a unique method using flexible, stretchable sensors based on ionic liquid technology. Unlike traditional sensors that monitor broader system conditions, these sensors are designed to measure key parameters—such as load, pressure, and displacement—directly from rubber components. The study demonstrates the sensors’ ability to provide reliable data, offering valuable insights into the behavior of pneumatic system rubber under controlled experimental conditions.
The research was led by Dr. Jae-Won Choi, a professor at the University of Akron with expertise in additive manufacturing and smart materials. Graduate researchers Md Jarir Hossain, Sarath Suresh Kamath, and Shahba Tasmiya Mouna contributed significantly to the sensor development and experimental analysis. Industry collaborators from Hyundai Motor Company and PYUNG HW IND Co., Ltd. provided technical insights and support, ensuring the study’s relevance to practical engineering challenges.
This collaborative effort underscores the value of industry-academic partnerships in advancing scientific knowledge. The findings, detailed in the Smart Materials and Structures publication1, mark a significant advancement in the study of smart materials for automotive applications by addressing a previously unexplored area. The research team acknowledges the support of Hyundai NGV and emphasizes that the results are intended for academic dissemination, with further details available upon request from the authors.