Distributing and programming apparatus and method for electronic transmission devices

Abstract

An automated dispensing device for storing and selectively dispensing electronic transmitting devices, such as tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) tire sensors. The dispensing device assists a user in determining the proper transmitting devices to be dispensed and programmed, or configuring the transmitting devices in a dispenser, and then dispenses the programmed or configured transmitting devices to the user. When used for TPMS tire sensors, the dispenser determines the type of TPMS sensor to be programmed, programs the sensor with the appropriate communication protocol, and dispenses the programmed or configured sensor to the user for installation in a wheel and tire.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to the field of transmission devices, such as sensors intended to transmit measurements made to third-party devices, and more specifically to the manner in which they are stored and distributed. Background Technology

[0002] In 2007, a U.S. federal law was implemented requiring most passenger vehicles to include a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to monitor low tire pressure and alert the driver. This reduced vehicle efficiency and performance but improved safety.

[0003] A typical TPM (Total Vehicle Maintenance) system includes tire sensors mounted in the wheels, typically in the valve stems of inflated vehicle tires. These sensors are configured to monitor several tire conditions, including tire pressure, tire temperature, wheel speed, and other conditions. The TPMS tire sensors are configured to wirelessly receive electronic signals from inside the wheel and transmit these signals to an electronic control unit or module (ECU) in the vehicle, which is typically connected to display a warning signal on the dashboard inside the passenger compartment. If the wheel sensor detects tire pressure above or below a predetermined level, or other conditions, the sensor transmits a signal received by the ECU and triggers an audio / visual indication to alert the driver to the condition.

[0004] A typical TPMS tire sensor generally includes a small battery, a circuit board with a communication antenna or coil (for receiving and transmitting), a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a rotation detection device or accelerometer, a programmable controller, a data storage device, and other information depending on the TPM system and sensor capabilities. Each TPMS tire sensor contains a sensor-specific identifier (ID), typically in the form of an alphanumeric code, allowing the vehicle ECU to distinguish the four typical tires on a passenger vehicle and further alert the driver which tire may be experiencing conditions beyond acceptable limits.

[0005] Traditional TPMS sensors in tires are typically powered by internal batteries. To extend sensor battery life, TPMS sensors are usually in a "dormant" mode, not actively transmitting tire data. When it's necessary to read the TPMS sensor, a TPMS tool is required to "trigger" or wake the sensor, causing it to transmit the measured tire data and sensor ID. This triggering of TPMS sensors is commonly used in vehicle repair shops, where technicians check tire conditions by triggering the TPMS tire sensors using a TPMS triggering tool as part of routine vehicle data or safety checks. A typical TPMS tire sensor is programmed to be triggered by receiving a low-frequency (LF) signal, typically 125 kHz. The tire sensor then wirelessly transmits a data signal, typically 315 or 433 MHz, containing the measured data from the tire. A conventional, sophisticated TPMS tool decodes the received tire sensor signal, retrieves the appropriate protocol for communicating with the specific vehicle ECU from the tool's memory, and wirelessly transmits the re-encoded data signal to the vehicle ECU for reprogramming or relearning using the new TPMS sensor information.

[0006] Sometimes it is necessary to replace tires and / or the sensors housed within them, especially when sensors are defective or batteries are depleted. Other instances affecting TPM systems include tires rotating due to wear or when snow tires are installed (which alters the position of the TPMS sensors) or when new tires contain new sensors. Therefore, when a user drives his / her vehicle into the garage, the garage must determine the type of pressure sensor housed in the tire.

[0007] There are many different commercial manufacturers of TPMS sensors. Each sensor manufacturer uses a specific signal communication protocol required to communicate with the TPMS sensor, enabling the TPMS sensor to wake up and transmit its sensor ID and measured data. A communication protocol refers to a set of rules (such as how wireless data signals are encoded) and procedures for transmitting and receiving data between the TPMS sensor and another device (such as a TPMS triggering tool).

[0008] There are also many different vehicle original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that incorporate TPMS. In fact, the same vehicle model manufactured in the same year may have different types of TPMS sensors, i.e., sensors with different communication protocols. For example, the type of sensor and its communication protocol can be retrieved through the vehicle's VIN code, but searching for this information can be time-consuming and cumbersome. Furthermore, if the tires are not original, it may not be easy to find the type of sensor currently fitted to the tire using vehicle information. With numerous TPMS sensor manufacturers, vehicle manufacturers and TPMS sensors have hundreds of different combinations, making it difficult and time-consuming for repair shop technicians to identify the TPMS sensors on a specific vehicle and the appropriate communication protocol required to communicate with the vehicle's TPMS sensors.

[0009] Typically, in the case of tire pressure sensors used in motor vehicles, TPMS sensors are stored and / or used in industrial environments or garages. These environments are particularly unfavorable, and the sensors may be exposed to chemicals, heat, humidity, vibration, shock, electromagnetic interference, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, these sensors are often freely accessible and may be easily stolen or misplaced. Accordingly, it would be advantageous to have a device that can securely store and distribute the sensors when needed. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Several methods and apparatuses for programming and distributing electronic transmission devices are disclosed. In one aspect, a distribution apparatus may include a storage space for the transmission device, a module for programming the transmission device, and a delivery tray. The delivery tray may be configured to distribute the programmed transmission device. The distribution apparatus may include an electromagnetic shielding cavity. The distribution apparatus may include a reading (or scanning) module. The reading module may be configured to read (or scan) the transmission device to obtain information associated with the transmission device. The distribution apparatus may include a human-machine interface. The distribution apparatus may include an accessory storage space. The distribution apparatus may include fasteners configured to attach the distribution device to a wall or floor. The distribution apparatus may include a printer. The distribution apparatus may include a financial payment terminal. The distribution apparatus may include a card reader. The distribution apparatus may include a keypad. The distribution apparatus may include an optical reader (or scanner). The distribution apparatus may include an on-board diagnostic device or module (OBD). The distribution apparatus may include a database stored in a data storage device containing information associated with the electronic transmission device. The distribution apparatus may include a communication module configured to communicate with third-party (or peripheral) devices. The distribution device may include electronic units, including microprocessors, data storage devices, or both. The distribution device may include modules configured to clone (or replicate) the transmission device.

[0011] In one aspect, a method for allocating an electronic transmission device may include receiving vehicle information. The method may include determining a transmission device type. The method may include determining a transmission device protocol. The method may include acquiring the transmission device. The transmission device may be acquired based on the determined transmission device type, the determined transmission device protocol, or both. The method may include placing the acquired transmission device in a shielded cavity. The method may include transmitting signals for programming the transmission device into the shielded cavity. The method may include allocating the programmed transmission device.

[0012] In one or more aspects, the picking and transferring device may include control actuators, such as chutes, conveyor systems, robotic arms, or any combination thereof. In one or more aspects, signals operable to program the transferring device may be transmitted as electromagnetic waves at frequencies between approximately 125 kHz or 315 MHz and 434 MHz. In one or more aspects, distributing the programmed sensors may include transporting the programmed transferring device to a delivery tray. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The invention can be best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be emphasized that, by convention, the various features in the drawings are not drawn to scale. Instead, for clarity, the dimensions of the various features are arbitrarily enlarged or reduced.

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an instance of a distribution device configured to distribute transmission devices.

[0015] Figure 1A yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example of a distribution device.

[0016] Figure 2 It is aimed at Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic block diagram of an instance of a processing device.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for programming and distributing electronic transmission devices.

[0018] Figure 4 It is aimed at Figure 1 The example shown is a diagram of the instance user interface display. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The embodiments disclosed herein include means and methods for distributing and programming electronic transmission devices. The devices may be configured or operable to communicate with tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) tire pressure sensors pre-installed (or mounted) in the tires of a motor vehicle. These sensors are typically associated with a computer in the motor vehicle, configured to transmit data to them. The tire pressure sensor devices may be configured or operable to communicate via radio frequency transmitters, Bluetooth, WiFi, near field communication (NFC), ultra-wideband (UWB) communication, or similar communication protocols known to those skilled in the art. Motor vehicles may include automobiles, motorcycles, aircraft, construction vehicles, and personal mobility vehicles, including (but not limited to) mopeds and bicycles. It should be noted that, for simplicity, the examples disclosed herein are described in reference to TPMS pressure sensors. It should be understood that these examples are extendable to any type of electronic transmission device, including (but not limited to) internal tire pressure sensors, temperature sensors, etc., which may require programming or configuration prior to use and / or installation in a motor vehicle or other vehicle or transport device.

[0020] In the embodiments disclosed herein, a programmable electronic transfer device may refer to a programmable electronic transfer device during a distribution process within the inventive device. For example, data signals are sent to a sensor located within the inventive device, where the sensor receives and stores within a sensor memory device programs, data, and / or instructions for operating a particular vehicle electronic control unit (ECU), other onboard vehicle systems, or external devices (e.g., a handheld TPMS tool or sensor triggering device) and / or communicating with them. As used herein, the programmable electronic transfer device described above further includes (but is not limited to) cloning or replicating a programmable electronic transfer device (all collectively referred to as a "programmable" electronic transfer device). In one example of cloning a TPMS tire pressure sensor, information is read from or received from the tire sensor to be replaced and transferred to a new programmable TPMS sensor, which then acts as a copy or clone of the sensor to be replaced. Electronic transfer devices other than TPMS sensors may be programmable or subject to programming as described herein to suit specific applications known to those skilled in the art.

[0021] Figure 1 , 1A An example of a distribution device 100 configured (or operable, as used throughout this specification) to distribute electronic transmission devices, such as TPMS sensors (not shown), operable to monitor and transmit one or more conditions inside a vehicle's pneumatic tires, as described above.

[0022] In one example, the dispensing device 100 may include a shielded cavity 110. The shielded cavity 110 is configured to receive a transmission device prior to a programming transmission device. An exemplary shielded cavity 110 is electromagnetically shielded to prevent unintentional programming of the transmission device outside the shielded cavity 110. The shielded cavity 110 may include a shielding door (not shown) configured to selectively open to receive the transmission device and close prior to the programming transmission device. An example shielded cavity 110 may include a shielding floor (not shown) configured to selectively open to dispense the programmed transmission device and close prior to the programming transmission device. In some embodiments, the shielded cavity 110 may be configured or operable to hermetically pressurize the interior of the shielded cavity 110 relative to other areas within the dispensing device and / or the surrounding atmosphere, and includes a separate pressure sensor (not shown). The pressurization of the shielded cavity 110 can be variably controlled, and the separate pressure sensor can be used to verify pressure values ​​such as those measured by the programmed transmission device positioned within the pressurized shielded cavity 110. Devices or components suitable for sealing and / or pressurizing chamber 110 as described, such as pressurized air source, pressure valve, controller and / or air ducts (not shown) into and out of shielded chamber 110, may be included in dispensing device 100, as known to those skilled in the art.

[0023] As exemplary Figure 1 and 1A As shown, the distribution device 100 may include a window 120 through which a user can view objects in the distribution device 100, such as various different transmission devices. The window 120 is optional, as some embodiments may be configured without a window, making the objects invisible to the user. The objects to be distributed may be displayed as... Figure 1A On the bracket or holder 124 of A1-C3 shown in the figure ( Figure 1A The nine brackets shown in the document number 124. Figure 1 (The 12 brackets shown in the image). Different numbers, sizes, shapes, configurations, and orientations of brackets 124 can be used to suit specific applications and / or transmission devices as known to those skilled in the art.

[0024] Each bracket or pallet 124 may include an actuator (not shown) configured to transfer or transport objects, such as transport devices, from the pallet 124 into the shielded cavity 110. In some embodiments, objects may be transported and placed into the shielded cavity 110 using one or more selectively actuated chutes, conveyor systems, robotic arms, or any combination thereof.

[0025] An exemplary dispensing device 100 includes a dispensing tray 130. The dispensing tray 130 can be configured to receive a programmed transmission device from a shielded cavity 110, directly from a bracket 124, or from another area of ​​the dispensing device 100. Figure 1In some of the best-seen embodiments, the dispensing tray 130 may include a door 134 configured or operable to be selectively opened by a user to retrieve a programmed transfer device passed from the shielded cavity 110 by the actuator or another mechanism (not shown) described above. In some embodiments, the door 134 may be configured to open automatically after a predetermined time, such as after programming of the transfer device in the shielded cavity 110 has been determined by one or more sensors (not shown), processor 220, and / or controller 210, as further described below.

[0026] See Figure 1A and 2 The exemplary distribution device 100 includes a processing device 140. The exemplary processing device 140 may be a combination of hardware and software. The processing device 140 is configured to control user input or commands, distribution operations, programming operations, payment operations, or any combination thereof via the distribution device user interface 150.

[0027] like Figure 1 and 1A As best seen in the diagram, the exemplary distribution device 100 may include a user interface 150. The user interface 150 may be a human-machine interface (HMI) that allows a user to operate the distribution device 100 by instructing the desired transmission device, programming operations, configuration operations, or any combination thereof on the selected transmission device prior to distribution. In one example, the user interface 150 may include a keypad and a display. In some embodiments, the user interface 150 may be an interactive touchscreen display or voice-activated. Other features, functions, and operations of the user interface 150 may be used to suit specific applications as known to those skilled in the art.

[0028] An exemplary dispensing device 100 may include an identification unit 160. The identification unit 160 may be an optical scanner configured to read barcodes, quick-response (QR) codes, vehicle identification numbers (VINs), or any other type of visual code known to those skilled in the art. The identification unit 160 may be configured to utilize smart tags, RFID tags, or have optical image recognition capabilities.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the dispensing device 100 may include additional storage space or areas for locating and temporarily storing accessories associated with the transmission device (not shown). For example, accessories may include (but are not limited to) maintenance or repair kits for the transmission device. Exemplary maintenance or repair kits may allow an operator to obtain additional components or parts for the assembly and / or maintenance of a selected transmission device. In one instance, the maintenance or repair kit may include tools such as general or specialized wrenches, screw drives, or other tools that can be used to repair or install a specific transmission device (e.g., a TPMS sensor transmission device) included in the dispensing device 100. In another instance, it may include general or specialized mechanical fasteners, seals, adhesives, lubricants, valve stems, or other components that can be used to install the transmission device (e.g., a TPMS sensor).

[0030] In one or more exemplary embodiments, the dispensing device 100 may include one or more fasteners or mounting devices. The one or more fasteners may be configured to allow the dispensing device 100 to be attached to an object such as a wall or floor.

[0031] In one or more exemplary embodiments, the dispensing device 100 may include a printer 170. The printer may be used to print delivery notes, data sheets, assembly instructions, operation instructions, troubleshooting instructions, or any combination thereof. The printed information (e.g., assembly instructions) may be pre-stored in the data storage device of the processing device 140 and automatically actuated by the controller 210 based on the selection of the transmission device or via user input from the user interface 150.

[0032] Some exemplary embodiments may include a payment terminal 180. The payment terminal 180 may be a card reader. Alternative or complementary payment terminal features may include means for collecting currency, distributing currency (i.e., exchanging) or both. The payment terminal 180 may be configured, for example, to facilitate the purchase of a transmission device in conjunction with user input regarding selection of the transmission device via user interface 150. Information or data related to the purchase (e.g., purchase price) or payment may be pre-stored in the data storage device 230 of the processing device 140 and executed by the processor and / or controller 210, as known to those skilled in the art. This stored information or data may be added, deleted, or updated by any method known to those skilled in the art. The payment terminal 180 may be configured or operable to initiate the programming of the transmission device based on confirmation of payment as determined or verified by the processing device 140.

[0033] Some exemplary embodiments may include visual status indicators, such as light-emitting diode (LED) indicators, which are configured to indicate power status, connectivity status, error status, signal strength (none shown), or any combination thereof.

[0034] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The block diagram illustrates an exemplary processing device 140. Processing device 140 includes a controller 210, a processor 220, a data storage device 230, an interface 240 (e.g., a user interface 150), an electronic signal transmitter 250, and an electronic signal receiver 260. In some exemplary embodiments, the transmitter 250 and receiver 260 may include a single communication unit. The communication unit may be configured to retrieve and / or send data, such as information related to the transmission device, to a remote computer server, a third-party peripheral device, or other separate device. The communication unit may be wired or wireless and may be configured to transmit and receive via radio frequency, Bluetooth, WiFi, NFC, UWB communication, etc., as known to those skilled in the art. The controller 210, processor 220, storage 230, interface 240, transmitter 250, and receiver 260 may each be electrically connected to each other, for example, via a bus 270.

[0035] The controller 210 can be configured to control allocation operations, programming operations, payment operations, printing operations, processing or memory updates, or any combination thereof. For example, the controller 210 can control actuators configured to transfer and allocate objects, such as transport devices, from selected or defined trays 124 to… Figure 1A The shielded cavity 110 shown in the figure. In some exemplary embodiments, the controller 210 may control one or more selectively actuated chutes, conveyor systems, robotic arms or any combination thereof to distribute and / or transfer or transport objects from the tray 24 to the shielded cavity 110.

[0036] Processor 220 can be configured to execute Figure 3 The method 300 shown in the diagram includes one or more steps. The processor 220 can be configured to program an electronic transmission device, such as a TPMS tire pressure sensor. The processor 220 can be configured to program the electronic transmission device based on vehicle manufacturer, model, model year, tire manufacturer, tire model, tire size, TPMS sensor type, or any combination thereof.

[0037] Memory 230 may be configured to store one or more computer-readable programs, instructions, executable files, operating systems, or any combination thereof. When used for a transmission device in the form of a TPMS tire sensor, memory 230 may be configured to store a database containing the vehicle and / or tire information described above, as well as the TPMS sensor device and associated sensor protocols for programming a particular TPMS sensor. The database may be updated via a direct link or by using a data carrier (e.g., a flash drive, optical disc) via a hardwired connection to a remote computer or server, or wirelessly, as is known to those skilled in the art. Memory 230 may be configured to store a history of actions performed by the allocation device 100, such as the allocated transmission devices, the types of allocated transmission devices, the programming protocols of the allocated transmission devices, or any combination thereof. Exemplary processor 220 and / or controller 210 retrieve and send information and data from memory 230 to memory 230 to suit specific operations or functions of device 100 as is known to those skilled in the art.

[0038] Interface 240 may be configured or operable to access processor 220, Figure 1 and 1A The user interface 150 shown in the diagram receives commands and / or signals from third-party devices such as vehicle on-board diagnostic (OBD) modules or OBD adapters, or any combination thereof. In one example, the OBD adapter may be removably connected to the vehicle's OBD port and includes a data storage device to receive and store information or data received from the vehicle's ECU via the vehicle's OBD port or connector. In one example, the OBD adapter wirelessly transmits the received vehicle ECU information to device 100 interface 240 and / or receiver 260. Figure 1 In one example of the device 100 shown, an accessible compartment 186 is used to removably store an OBD adapter device 188, which can be used to connect to the vehicle's OBD port and wirelessly transmit vehicle information for reception by the device 100 processing unit 140 to assist in programming electronic transmission devices (e.g., TPMS tire sensors), as described generally herein.

[0039] Processor 220 may be configured or operable to translate instructions received from interface 240 and / or receiver 260 into predetermined and / or pre-stored instructions in memory 230 that can be understood by controller 210. In another example, a user may manually input vehicle and / or sensor information via interfaces 240, 150, such as via a keyboard or interface touchpad, for reception and processing by processing device 140, as described herein throughout. In another example, device 100 may read or scan information via identification unit 160, which communicates with processing device 140 as described above. In another example, a communication cable may be selectively and temporarily connected to the vehicle OBD port and device 100 interface 240, which communicates with processing device 140, in the form of a plug or socket (not shown).

[0040] Transmitter 250 and receiver 260 may be configured or operable to communicate with interfaces 240 and 150. Receiver 260 may receive sensor protocols from user interface 150 via interface 240. In one example, the TPMS sensor protocol to be programmed into a new TPMS sensor in device 100 may be received by receiver 260 in one or more of the manner described above for receiving instructions via interface 240. In one example, processor 220 may obtain the sensor protocol from receiver 260 and instruct transmitter 250 to transmit signals for programming the transmission device (e.g., TPMS sensor). The signals may contain the sensor protocol received and stored in the TPMS sensor. For example, the sensor protocol may be embedded in the signal. Transmitter 250 and receiver 260 may be configured or operable to transmit and receive, for example, electromagnetic waves with frequencies between approximately 125 kHz and / or 315 MHz and 434 MHz. Other forms of signals and different frequencies may be used to suit specific transmission devices and applications as known to those skilled in the art.

[0041] In an alternative instance of receiving or determining the transmission device communication and / or operating protocol, a user may manually input vehicle information, including the vehicle's VIN, manufacturer, model, and / or year, via interface 150. This vehicle information is then used by processing device 140 to determine the appropriate communication protocol for subsequently programmed TPMS sensors, as described generally herein. In another instance, a user may manually or verbally input or select the appropriate transmission device communication protocol via a menu or prompt visually displayed on the device 150 interface, and then use the transmission device communication protocol to program the transmission device, as described generally herein. Alternatively, vehicle information and / or transmission device communication protocols may be received from a vehicle OBD or OBD adapter device, as described above. In one instance of device 100, device 100 includes an OBD communication device or module (not shown) as part of processing device 140, for example, as part of or communicating with receiver 260 and / or interface 240. The device 100 OBD communication device is operable to receive vehicle information from a vehicle electronic control unit (ECU), including, but not limited to, TPMS sensor communication protocols. In one instance, this information is received wirelessly by device 100's OBD communication device or module from an OBD adapter connected to the vehicle's OBD port, as described herein. Other methods and devices known to those skilled in the art for receiving the described vehicle information by device 100 may be used.

[0042] In another example, device 100 processing equipment 140 may receive transmission device protocols or other data from a separate and independent TPMS tool that can be used to trigger and / or receive information from TPMS tire sensors and / or vehicles. The TPMS tool may transmit this information wirelessly or via a communication cable that can be connected to device 100 as described above. Other methods for receiving transmission device protocols or other data for programming transmission devices, as described herein, are known to those skilled in the art.

[0043] In some embodiments, the transmitter 250 may include programming and / or configuration modules or functions, and the receiver 260 may include reading or scanning modules or functions for cloning or copying the transmitting device (e.g., a TPMS sensor). For example, a TPMS sensor to be replaced (worn or defective) may be placed by the user on... Figure 1AThe shielded cavity 110 shown is read or scanned by a reading module (e.g., via a TPMS sensor trigger signal generated by transmitter 250). In one example, transmitted TPMS sensor-specific data (such as a unique sensor identifier) ​​from the sensor can be received by receiver 260 and stored in memory 230. The TPMS sensor to be replaced is then removed from shielded cavity 110, and a new programmable TPMS sensor is retrieved from tray 124 and transferred to shielded cavity 110 in the manner described above. The received TPMS sensor-specific data stored in memory can then be retrieved from memory 230 and via transmission from programming and / or configuration modules (e.g., transmitter 250) for programming or cloning a new sensor, which thus has the same unique TPMS sensor identifier as the previously read sensor to be replaced. In an alternative example, the reading module can read or scan other markings on the TPMS sensor to be replaced, such as a barcode on the sensor exterior, to provide a unique sensor ID or other information required for programming the new sensor. Other devices, methods, and / or processes in apparatus 100 may be used to configure or clone transmission devices (e.g., TPMS sensors), as are known to those skilled in the art.

[0044] In one example described above where the device 100 is used to selectively pressurize the shielded cavity 110, the reading module can be used to retrieve the pressure value measured by a programmed transmission device (e.g., a TPMS sensor) and compare it with... Figure 1 The pressure measured or monitored in the shielded cavity 110 is compared. The comparison between the pressure measured by the transmission device and the pressure measured in the shielded cavity can be performed by a processing device and then displayed to the user via a user interface, printer, or other visual or audible signal.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of an exemplary method 300 for programming and distributing electronic transmission devices such as TPMS sensors. Method 300 can be derived from... Figure 1 , 1A The dispensing device 100 shown in the image performs the dispensing. One or more steps of method 300 can be performed by, for example... Figure 2 The processor 220 and other processing devices 140 shown in the image are executing.

[0046] Exemplary method 300 includes receiving vehicle information 310. The vehicle information can be received via... Figure 1 The user interface shown in the document 150 can be used to receive information via a third-party device such as an OBD adapter. Vehicle information may include vehicle manufacturer, model, model year, vehicle identification number (VIN), tire manufacturer, tire model, tire size, or any combination thereof.

[0047] Method 300 includes determining the type of the 320TPMS sensor. The sensor type can be determined based on vehicle information. The sensor type can also be determined using a database. In the case of configuring or cloning a sensor, the sensor type can be determined based on signals received from the sensor or by reading or scanning markings on the sensor's exterior (e.g., barcodes). The signals may contain a unique sensor identifier, including sensor type, serial number, sensor manufacturer, sensor protocol, or any combination thereof.

[0048] Method 300 includes determining the 330TPMS sensor protocol. The sensor protocol can be determined based on received vehicle information. The sensor protocol can be determined using a database. As explained above, this database information can be pre-stored in the memory 230 of device 100. In the case of configuring or cloning the sensor, the sensor protocol can be determined based on signals received from the sensor, for example, via a readout module.

[0049] Method 300 includes identifying and acquiring 340 suitable TPMS sensors. The identification of suitable TPMS sensors is based on the determined sensor type and the determined sensor protocol. The acquisition of 340 sensors may include control actuators, such as selectively actuated chutes, conveyor systems, or robotic arms, or any combination thereof, to acquire from, for example... Figure 1 , 1A Select one or more suitable or acceptable sensors from the predetermined brackets 124 or brackets A1-C3 shown in the diagram.

[0050] Exemplary method 300 includes placing a selected sensor 350 in a shielded cavity, for example... Figure 1A The shielding cavity 110 shown in the figure.

[0051] In one example described above, step 350 of method 300 may include reading or scanning the sensor to be replaced in the configured or cloned shielded cavity. The information read from the sensor to be replaced in the shielded cavity may include a sensor identifier, sensor model, sensor protocol, one or more technical features of the sensor, or any combination thereof.

[0052] Exemplary method 300 may include transmitting a 360° signal. The signal may be transmitted by a device 100, such as transmitter 250, to program a transmission device (e.g., a TPMS sensor). The signal may contain a sensor protocol. For example, the sensor protocol may be embedded in the signal. The signal may be transmitted as an electromagnetic wave at a frequency, for example, between approximately 125 kHz and / or 315 MHz and 434 MHz.

[0053] In another example described above, method 300 may include a step of testing the TPMS sensor in the shielded cavity 110, such as pressurizing the shielded cavity 110 to ensure that the sensor is properly functioning for user pickup before being dispensed. In an alternative example, the shielded cavity 110 or other areas of the device 100 may be heated, and the TPMS sensor temperature sensor may be read and inspected against the measured temperature of the heated area of ​​the device 100.

[0054] Exemplary method 300 may include distributing 370 of a programmed TPMS sensor. Distributing 370 of the programmed sensor may include transporting the programmed sensor from the shielded cavity 110 to... Figure 1 , 1A The delivery tray 130 is shown in the diagram. The dispensing 370 programmable sensor may include control actuators, such as chutes, conveyor systems, robotic arms, or any combination thereof, to transport the programmable sensor from the shielded cavity 110 to the dispensing tray 130. It should be understood that additional steps, removal steps, or reordering of steps may be used to suit a specific application as known to those skilled in the art.

[0055] Figure 4 This is a diagram of an example user interface display 400. The user interface display 400 can display on... Figure 1 , 1A The user interface shown in the image is number 150. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the user interface display 400 may include a programming module 410, a purchasing module 420, an inventory module 430, a setting module 440, and a return module 450.

[0056] Programming module 410 can be selected to input one or more parameters to program the transmission device (e.g., a TPMS sensor). The one or more parameters may include vehicle information such as vehicle manufacturer, model, model year, VIN, tire manufacturer, tire model, tire size, or any combination thereof. Purchasing module 420 can be selected to input payment information. Inventory module 430 can be selected to display the inventory stored in… Figure 1 , 1A The distribution device 100 is shown in the inventory of transmission devices. The setting module 440 can be selected to display a setting menu to allow the user to configure one or more settings of the distribution device 100. The return module 450 can be selected to return to the previous menu. It should be understood that additional modules, features, and functions of the device 100 may be included in the interface display 400 to suit specific applications, transmission devices, and performance specifications as known to those skilled in the art.

[0057] While the invention has been described in conjunction with certain embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather is contemplated to cover various modifications, combinations, and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, which should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures permitted by law. One or more elements of the disclosed embodiments may be combined with one or more elements of any other disclosed embodiments.

Claims

1. An automatic distributor for a transmission device, characterized in that, The automatic dispenser includes: Storage space for storing various transmission devices; The interface is configured to receive vehicle information. A processing device configured to determine a suitable transmission device from the various stored transmission devices based on the received vehicle information; An actuator that communicates with the processing device is configured to select a suitable transmission device from the various stored transmission devices based on the received vehicle information. A programming module for programming the appropriate transmission device based on the received vehicle information; and A delivery tray is configured to dispense a programmed transfer device, wherein the transfer device is a tire pressure monitoring system tire sensor, which is operable to monitor the air pressure in the vehicle's tires.

2. The automatic dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising: At least one electromagnetic shielding cavity is operable to temporarily store the transmission device, and the shielding cavity communicates with the programming module via signals.

3. The automatic dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising: A reading module is configured to read the transmission device to obtain information associated with the transmission device.

4. The automatic dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising: Human-machine interface.

5. The automatic dispenser according to claim 4, wherein the human-machine interface further comprises at least one of the following: Card reader; Keyboard; or Optical reader.

6. The automatic dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising: An attachment storage space is operable to store attachments associated with the transmission device and to selectively allocate the stored attachments.

7. The automatic dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a printer operable to selectively print and dispense information.

8. The automatic distributor of claim 1, further comprising a payment terminal operable to receive financial payments in order to distribute the programmed transmission device.

9. The automatic distributor according to claim 1, further comprising an onboard communication device module operable to receive at least one of vehicle information or transmission device information from a vehicle onboard diagnostic device or an electronic control unit.

10. The automatic dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a processing device, the processing device comprising: processor; Memory data storage device; Controller; Receiver; as well as Transmitter.

11. The automatic distributor of claim 10, wherein the processing device further comprises an information database containing information associated with the transmission device and operable to program the transmission device, the database being stored in the memory data storage device, the memory data storage device communicating with the processor and the programming module.

12. The automatic dispenser of claim 1, further comprising a communication module configured to communicate with a third-party electronic device.

13. The automatic distributor of claim 1, wherein the module for programming the transmission device is operable to clone the tire sensor prior to distribution.

14. A method for distributing transmission devices via an automatic distribution device storing various different transmission devices, said various different transmission devices being tire sensors of a tire pressure monitoring system, said sensors being operable to monitor the air pressure in vehicle tires, the method comprising: Receive vehicle information; Determine the type of transmission device; Determine the transmission protocol; Based on the determined type of transmission device and the determined transmission device protocol, one of the various different transmission devices is selected from the tray of the automatic distribution device; The captured transmission device is placed in a shielded cavity; Transmit signals into the shielded cavity to program the transmission device; and Distribute programmed transmission devices.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the conveying device comprises a control actuator, the actuator comprising at least one of a chute, a conveyor system, or a robotic arm.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the transmitted signal further comprises an electromagnetic wave having a transmission frequency of approximately 125 kHz or at least between 315 MHz and 434 MHz.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein distributing the programmed transport device further comprises transporting the programmed transport device to a delivery pallet.

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