Under Pressure: A Kistler Masterclass at IAAPS

In the Bristol and Bath Science Park, nestled within the cutting-edge Institute of Advanced Automotive Propulsion Systems (IAAPS), a group of enthusiastic researchers gathered for a day of learning and discovery. The occasion? The Kistler Masterclass, an event that brought together researchers of the AAPS CDT and IAAPS, along with industry specialists from Kistler, a renowned name in sensor technology within the automotive sector. This unique event promised to unravel the intricacies of pressure transducers and provide valuable insights into their applications.

What sets this group apart is its diverse makeup. With members from various fields of research, they are well-positioned to be a driving force for innovation in the automotive industry. Their combination of expertise in automotive engineering, data analytics, physics, energy systems, computer science, and more create an environment where new ideas and fresh perspectives can thrive.

Kistler, a global leader in dynamic measurement technology, play a vital role in improving the quality of data collected during automotive vehicle and component testing. These sensors, known for their precision, help reduce the need for repetitive testing and contribute to curtailing the energy consumption associated with automotive testbeds. As the automotive industry is actively working toward net-zero emissions, Kistler empower researchers to make precise assessments, design more efficient systems, and ultimately contribute to the industry's transition toward sustainability.

The day was divided into two distinct activities, each designed to impart a unique set of knowledge and skills. The morning kicked off with classroom sessions, where attendees dove headfirst into the technical details of pressure transducers. Topics covered included the intricacies of design and manufacturing, example applications and projects, and operating principles; these provided a fundamental understanding crucial for anyone looking to make advancements in this field. The sessions also delved into data acquisition and processing, equipping participants with the tools to make sense of the vast amount of data generated by these sensors.

In the afternoon, it was time to roll up sleeves and get hands-on. Attendees had the opportunity to witness how pressure transducers are coupled to a variety of applications and have a go at preparing and installing a sensor into a dummy cylinder head (it was harder than it looked!). This interactive session provided a deeper understanding of the real-world implications of their research and the limitations associated with this. A highlight of the day was a live demonstration of in-cylinder pressure transducers in action within a BMW i8, showcasing the practical applications and data generated by this technology in the automotive industry.

As the day came to a close and the attendees went their separate ways, they left with more than just theoretical knowledge. They acquired practical insights to support their ongoing research projects and established valuable connections for future collaborations. Kistler's high-quality sensors play a pivotal role in generating fast, accurate, and reliable data, furthering research with real-world implications. Looking ahead, events like this serve as a reminder that tackling complex challenges often involves embracing diverse disciplines, a hallmark of the AAPS CDT's transdisciplinary approach.

Many thanks to Dr. David Rogers and Shaun Egglestone for a fantastic day!
A full video from the day is available below: