HOUGHTON — Michigan Technological University announced a collaboration with Caresoft Global to provide engineering data software for the Tesla Model X.
The application and data the company gifted to the university, which has a commercial value of more than $3 million, allows students to gain actionable intelligence and insights behind some of the leading path-breaking vehicles in the world today.
The Caresoft technology, software and processes enable extraction of accurate 3D computer-aided design models of complete vehicles. The CAD data is used to conduct advanced engineering analyses for computer-assisted engineering, computational fluid dynamics and other purposes. Users can also view the CAD model inside an immersive virtual reality environment.
Through a high-energy scan, complete vehicle CAD data and analysis, students can assess and benchmark the vehicle’s components and run simulations to predict stress, durability and crash responses.
Michigan Tech recently used the software and data for the first time during an automotive systems course for graduate students in mechanical engineering and electrical engineering.
“Michigan Tech, and the Department of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics in particular, are very excited to have been chosen by Caresoft Global as the first university to receive this extraordinary engineering data software for the Tesla Model X,” said William Predebon, chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics.
Added Prideep Subramaniam, director of North American Sales at Caresoft Global: “Students need to see what’s behind today’s groundbreaking cars. They need practical experience and engineering insights. Innovation is happening in their backyard, and we want to make sure they have the knowledge they need when they enter the industry.”
Caresoft Global, which was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Detroit, was recently honored with Ford Motor Co.’s World Excellence Award as a Smart Brand Pillar of Technology and Innovation. It is also a finalist for the 2019 Automotive News PACE Award. The company has conducted high-energy scans and engineering analysis of company-owned Chevrolet Bolt EV and Tesla Model 3 (in addition to the Tesla Model X), and more than 20 automakers have entered into agreements to implement the Caresoft technology and benchmarking data.
“The fact that Caresoft chose Michigan Tech to be the first university in the country to implement this technology demonstrates the world-class reputation and research of both our mechanical engineering department and the institution as a whole,” said Janet Callahan, dean of Michigan Tech’s College of Engineering. “We are honored by Caresoft’s generosity and look forward to building our relationship with the company for many years to come.”
Michigan Technological University is a public research university, home to more than 7,000 students from 54 countries. Founded in 1885, the University offers more than 120 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science and technology, engineering, forestry, business and economics, health professions, humanities, mathematics, and social sciences.