Method for programming a pressure sensor of a vehicle tire

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (Pr1) of programming a pressure sensor (1) of a vehicle tire, said programming method (Pr1) comprising: - emitting an initial radiofrequency activation signal (s1) to said pressure sensor (1), characterized in that said programming method (Pr1) further comprises: - receiving, by an electronic device (4), an activation confirmation radiofrequency signal (s2) emitted by said pressure sensor (1) after the emission of said initial radiofrequency activation signal (s1), said activation confirmation radiofrequency signal (s2) being a radiofrequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz, - emitting, by said electronic device (4), a programming radiofrequency signal (s3) to said pressure sensor (1), said programming radiofrequency signal (s3) being a radiofrequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz and comprising initialization information (I0).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for programming pressure sensors on vehicle tires. This invention has specific applications, but is not limited to the field of motor vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of vehicles, particularly motor vehicles, a method known to those skilled in the art for programming pressure sensors for vehicle tires includes: – An initial radio frequency activation signal is transmitted to the pressure sensor using a pressure sensor activation device. This initial radio frequency activation signal is a low-frequency radio frequency signal, for example, transmitted at 125 kHz. – The activation device transmits a programming radio frequency signal, which is a high-frequency signal, such as 433 MHz or 315 MHz, and includes initialization information.

[0003] The activation device is a tire pressure monitoring tool, also known as a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System). It communicates with an electronic tire pressure monitoring system (also called TPMS), which includes an electronic control unit in the vehicle and one or more pressure sensors located inside the tire. These pressure sensors are configured to measure the internal pressure of the tire and transmit the pressure information to the vehicle's electronic control unit. The electronic control unit can then alert the vehicle's occupant if one of the tires is punctured or deflated, thus preventing any risk to their safety.

[0004] One drawback of existing technology is the emergence of a new generation of pressure sensors on the market. This new generation incorporates technology capable of transmitting radio frequency signals between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz to replace high-frequency radio frequency signals. However, current activation devices are not suitable for this new generation of pressure sensors. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Against this backdrop, the present invention aims to provide a method for programming a pressure sensor for a vehicle tire, which can overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention proposes a method for programming a vehicle tire pressure sensor, the programming method comprising: – Send an initial radio frequency activation signal to the pressure sensor. The programming method is characterized in that it further includes: – After transmitting the initial radio frequency activation signal, an electronic device receives an activation confirmation radio frequency signal transmitted by the pressure sensor, the activation confirmation radio frequency signal being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. – The electronic device transmits a programming radio frequency signal to the pressure sensor, the programming radio frequency signal being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz, and including initialization information.

[0007] Therefore, as will be explained in detail below, the electronic device is used to communicate with a new generation of pressure sensors, particularly to receive radio frequency signals transmitted at frequencies between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz, and to transmit radio frequency signals sent to the pressure sensor at the same frequency. Thus, the programming method reduces costs because it uses already suitable electronic devices and there is no need to adapt to commercially available activation devices.

[0008] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the method for programming the pressure sensor of a vehicle tire described above may also include one or more additional features, either individually or in all technically possible combinations, of the following features.

[0009] In a non-limiting embodiment, the programming method further includes writing the initialization information into the memory of the pressure sensor.

[0010] In a non-limiting embodiment, the reception of the activation confirmation radio frequency signal and the transmission of the programming radio frequency signal are performed according to the Bluetooth Low Energy communication protocol.

[0011] In a non-limiting embodiment, the transmission of the initial radio frequency activation signal is performed by a pressure sensor activation device or by the electronic device.

[0012] In a non-limiting embodiment, when the signal is emitted by the activation device, the initial radio frequency activation signal is a low-frequency signal; when the signal is emitted by the electronic device, the initial radio frequency activation signal is a radio frequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

[0013] In a non-limiting embodiment, the programming method further includes: after transmitting the programming radio frequency signal, the electronic device receiving a programming confirmation radio frequency signal transmitted by the pressure sensor, the programming confirmation radio frequency signal being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

[0014] In one non-limiting embodiment, the programming confirmation of receiving the radio frequency signal is performed according to the Bluetooth Low Energy communication protocol.

[0015] In a non-limiting embodiment, the initialization information includes the identification information of the pressure sensor, the location information of the pressure sensor, and the manufacturing date information of the corresponding tire.

[0016] In one non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device is a mobile phone, tablet computer, or computer.

[0017] Furthermore, an electronic device is provided, characterized in that the electronic device is configured as follows: – Switch to receive mode to receive activation confirmation radio frequency signals emitted by the vehicle tire pressure sensors, the activation confirmation radio frequency signals being radio frequency signals emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. – Receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal from the pressure sensor. – Switch to transmit mode to transmit a programmed radio frequency signal to the pressure sensor. – Transmit the programming radio frequency signal, which is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz, and includes initialization information.

[0018] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device is further configured to: – Transmit an initial radio frequency activation signal to the pressure sensor, the initial radio frequency activation signal being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

[0019] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device is further configured to receive a programming confirmation radio frequency signal emitted by the pressure sensor after transmitting the programming radio frequency signal, the programming confirmation radio frequency signal being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

[0020] Furthermore, a computer program product is proposed, comprising one or more instruction sequences executable by an information processing unit, wherein when the instruction sequences are loaded onto a computer, execution of the instruction sequences enables the following steps to be performed: – Switch to receive mode to receive activation confirmation radio frequency signals emitted by the vehicle tire pressure sensors, the activation confirmation radio frequency signals being radio frequency signals emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. – Receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal, – Switch to transmit mode to transmit a programmed radio frequency signal to the pressure sensor. – Transmit the programming radio frequency signal, which is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz, and includes initialization information. Attached Figure Description

[0021] A better understanding of the invention and its various applications will be gained by reading the following description and reviewing the accompanying drawings: Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of a first non-limiting embodiment of a method for programming a vehicle tire pressure sensor according to the present invention. Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of a second non-limiting embodiment of the method for programming a vehicle tire pressure sensor according to the present invention. Figure 2 for Figure 1a The diagram illustrates a programming method that includes additional steps according to a non-limiting embodiment. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of a system for programming pressure sensors of vehicle tires according to the present invention, the system being configured to implement... Figure 1a , Figure 1b or Figure 2 The programming method, wherein the programming system includes an activation device and an electronic device, Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the functions of the programming system, activation device, and electronic device shown in the previous figure. The programming system is configured to communicate with a pressure sensor.

[0022] Unless otherwise stated, elements that have the same structure or function appearing in different figures retain the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0023] refer to Figure 1a , Figure 1b and Figure 2 A method Pr1 for programming the pressure sensor 1 of the tire 2 of a vehicle 3 according to the present invention is described. The method is... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The programming system 6 shown is implemented. The programming system 6 includes the electronic device 4 as described below. In a non-limiting embodiment, the system further includes the activation device 5 as described below.

[0024] In a non-limiting embodiment, vehicle 3 is a motor vehicle. Vehicle 3 in Figure 3As shown in the diagram. The vehicle is equipped with tires 2, and a pressure sensor 1 is housed within each tire 2. The pressure sensor 1 is a programmable pressure sensor 1. There is only one pressure sensor 1 for each tire 2. The vehicle 3 also includes an electronic control unit 30, which is referred to as the abbreviation ECU or on-board computer 30 in the following sections of the manual. The terms "electronic control unit 30" or "on-board computer 30" are used interchangeably in the following sections of the manual. The pressure sensor 1-on-board computer 30 assembly is referred to as an electronic tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

[0025] Each pressure sensor 1 is conventionally equipped with a radio frequency transmitter for transmitting data to the electronic control unit 30. The electronic control unit 30, which receives data from the pressure sensor 1, can thus alert the user of the vehicle 3 when one of the tires 2 is punctured or deflated, thereby avoiding any risk to the safety of the user of the vehicle 3.

[0026] It should be noted that each pressure sensor 1 is configured to communicate with the electronic control unit 30 of the vehicle 3 according to a specific communication protocol. Thus, each communication protocol is defined according to the type (brand and model) of the pressure sensor 1. Depending on the type of vehicle 3, each vehicle includes one or more types of pressure sensors 1. To determine the communication protocol used by each pressure sensor 1 of the vehicle 3, the type of vehicle 3 must be selected, which is defined by the manufacturer, model, and year of manufacture of the vehicle 3.

[0027] When pressure sensor 1 is no longer recognized by electronic control unit 30, it must be programmed or reprogrammed using initialization information I0. Pressure sensor 1 will no longer be recognized when operation has been performed on tire 2 or on pressure sensor 1 itself (e.g., in the following non-limiting examples): – Replace tire 2 with the new pressure sensor 1, which is no longer recognized by the electronic control unit 30, or – Replace pressure sensor 1 with a new pressure sensor 1 on tire 2, or – Change the position of the tire 2 that houses the pressure sensor 1.

[0028] In a non-limiting embodiment, initialization information I0 (in Figure 3 and Figure 4 (As shown in the image) includes: – Identification information item i1 of pressure sensor 1, and – Position information item i2 for pressure sensor 1.

[0029] In a non-limiting embodiment, the initialization information item I0 further includes: – DOT information item, or information item regarding the manufacturing date of the corresponding tire 2.

[0030] In a non-limiting example, the identification information item i1 is an alphanumeric code unique to each pressure sensor 1. Using this alphanumeric code, the electronic control unit 30 of the vehicle 3 can distinguish the four tires 2 housing the pressure sensors 1, thereby alerting the user of the vehicle 3 to any problems occurring on one of the tires 2. Thus, the identification information item i1 of the pressure sensor 1 can then be associated with the position p1 of the tire 2 housing the pressure sensor 1.

[0031] It should be noted that the position information item i2 of pressure sensor 1 corresponds to the position p1 of tire 2 on which the pressure sensor is installed, that is: – Front right, – Left front, or – Right rear, or – Left rear.

[0032] In the following sections of the instruction manual, the position p1 of tire 2 or the position p1 of pressure sensor 1 will no longer be distinguished, and the position p1 is present in the position information item i2.

[0033] DOT information is an abbreviation for "Department of Transportation" (US Department of Transportation), corresponding to the tire's manufacturing date. DOT consists of a four-digit number indicating the week and year of manufacture, the code of the factory that manufactured the tire, a size-specific code, and optional codes specific to the manufacturer.

[0034] As will be seen below, the pressure sensor 1 is programmed by means of electronic device 4 and, when appropriate, by means of activation device 5.

[0035] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device 4 is a mobile phone (also known as a smartphone), a tablet computer, a computer, or any other type of electronic device including a data communication module configured to communicate at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. It should be noted that, conventionally, smartphones include a data communication module configured to communicate at the aforementioned frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

[0036] like Figure 1a and Figure 1b As shown, the programming method Pr1 includes the following steps.

[0037] exist Figure 1a and Figure 1b In step E11, which is shown as F11(1, s1), an initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is transmitted to pressure sensor 1.

[0038] In a non-limiting embodiment, an initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is periodically transmitted to the pressure sensor 1.

[0039] The initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is used to wake up pressure sensor 1. Actually, initially, pressure sensor 1 is in sleep mode, which is used to conserve the pressure sensor's battery 54 (in...). Figure 4 (As shown in the diagram). The initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is transmitted according to the communication protocol specific to pressure sensor 1.

[0040] exist Figure 1a In the first non-limiting embodiment shown, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is transmitted by the activation device 5. In this case, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is a low-frequency signal, also referred to as an LF signal. In one non-limiting embodiment, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is transmitted at a frequency between 30 kHz and 300 kHz. In one non-limiting variant embodiment, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is transmitted at a frequency between 100 kHz and 150 kHz. In one non-limiting example embodiment, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is transmitted at a frequency of 125 kHz. It should be noted that the activation radio frequency signal s1 is a continuous or modulated electromagnetic signal.

[0041] Activation device 5 is a dedicated pressure monitoring tool, commonly known as a TPMS tool (Tire Pressure Monitoring System).

[0042] To activate pressure sensor 1, in a non-limiting embodiment, the type of vehicle 3 is selected manually in advance by an operator using activation device 5, via a database loaded into memory or a database accessible by activation device 5 on a remote server. The database includes different types of vehicles 3, the associated types of pressure sensors 1, and communication protocols specific to different pressure sensors 1.

[0043] It should be noted that the activation device 5 knows the position p1 of the tire 2 that houses the pressure sensor 1 and transmits the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 to it. Position p1 also indicates the position of the pressure sensor 1 as described above.

[0044] In the present first non-limiting embodiment, in step E11', shown as F11'(5, 4, i4), the activation device 5 sends an activation information item i4 to the electronic device 4 to indicate that the activation device has sent an initial radio frequency activation signal s1 to the pressure sensor 1 to activate the sensor.

[0045] exist Figure 1b In the second non-limiting embodiment shown, the transmission of the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is performed by the electronic device 4. In this case, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

[0046] In one non-limiting embodiment, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is transmitted at a frequency included in the 2.4 GHz ISM band. This band is the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band from 2.4000 GHz to 2.4835 GHz. In one non-limiting embodiment, the transmission of the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is performed according to the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication protocol. The initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is thus a so-called BLE signal.

[0047] In order to activate pressure sensor 1, in a non-limiting embodiment, the type of vehicle 3 is selected manually in advance by an operator using electronic device 4, in a non-limiting example via a database loaded into memory or a database accessible by electronic device 4 on a remote server.

[0048] In this case, the electronic device 4 should also know the position p1 of the tire 2 that houses the pressure sensor 1.

[0049] exist Figure 1a and Figure 1b In step E12, which is shown as F12(4, 1, s2), after transmitting the initial radio frequency activation signal s1, the electronic device 4 receives the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 transmitted by the pressure sensor 1.

[0050] In a non-limiting embodiment, the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 is periodically emitted by the pressure sensor 1.

[0051] The activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 is a radio frequency signal transmitted and thus received at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. The activation confirmation signal s2 enables the pressure sensor 1 to alert the electronic device 4 that it has been fully awakened, i.e., activated, and is therefore ready to be programmed.

[0052] In one non-limiting embodiment, the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 is received at a frequency contained in the 2.4 GHz ISM band. This band is the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band from 2.4000 GHz to 2.4835 GHz. In one non-limiting embodiment, the reception of the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 is performed according to the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication protocol. The activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 is thus a so-called BLE signal.

[0053] Therefore, when pressure sensor 1 has indicated to electronic device 4 that it is ready to be programmed, in Figure 1a and Figure 1bIn step E13, shown as F13(4, 1, s3(I0)), the electronic device 4 transmits a programming radio frequency signal s3 to the pressure sensor 1.

[0054] The programming radio frequency signal s3 is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. It includes initialization information I0.

[0055] In one non-limiting embodiment, the programming radio frequency signal s3 is transmitted at a frequency contained in the 2.4 GHz ISM band. This band is the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band from 2.4000 GHz to 2.4835 GHz. In one non-limiting embodiment, the programming radio frequency signal s3 is transmitted according to the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication protocol. The programming radio frequency signal s3 is thus referred to as a BLE signal.

[0056] When pressure sensor 1 receives programming radio frequency signal s3, in step E14, shown as F14(1, 10, I0), initialization information item I0 is written into the memory 10 of pressure sensor 1.

[0057] Therefore, pressure sensor 1 is in Figure 4 The memory 10 shown includes: – The sensor's identification information item i1, – The location information i2 of the sensor, and when appropriate – The DOT information of the corresponding tire 2, i.e., the tire 2 that houses the sensor.

[0058] like Figure 2 As shown, programming method Pr1 also includes other non-limiting steps described below.

[0059] Figure 2 Steps E11 to E14 shown in the figure are Figure 1b The steps described herein are the same. It should be noted that... Figure 2 repeat Figure 1b The steps are the same, but they can also be repeated. Figure 1a The steps, especially those previously included in Figure 1a Steps E11 and E11' are described in the context of [the previous sentence].

[0060] In step E13' (shown as E13'(4, 1, s4)), after the electronic device 4 transmits the programming radio frequency signal s3 and before the transmission step of the programming radio frequency signal s3, the electronic device 4 receives the programming confirmation radio frequency signal s4 transmitted by the pressure sensor 1.

[0061] The programming verification radio frequency signal s4 is a radio frequency signal transmitted and thus received at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. In a non-limiting embodiment, the programming verification radio frequency signal s4 is received at a frequency included in the 2.4 GHz ISM band. This band is the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band from 2.4000 GHz to 2.4835 GHz. In a non-limiting embodiment, the reception of the programming verification radio frequency signal s4 is performed according to the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication protocol. The programming verification radio frequency signal s4 is thus a so-called BLE signal.

[0062] Therefore, when electronic device 4 receives the programming confirmation radio frequency signal s4, the device is informed that pressure sensor 1 is ready to be programmed. Then, step E14 described above can proceed.

[0063] The method Pr1 for programming the pressure sensor 1 of the tire 2 of vehicle 3 is implemented by a programming system 6 for programming the pressure sensor 1 of the tire 2 of vehicle 3. In a non-limiting embodiment, the programming system 6... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in the image.

[0064] The programming system 6 includes an electronic device 4 and, where appropriate, an activation device 5. In a non-limiting embodiment shown in the figures, it also includes the activation device 5.

[0065] Electronic device 4 is configured as follows: – Switch to receive mode m1 to receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 emitted by the pressure sensor 1 of the tire 2 of vehicle 3, the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 being a radio frequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz (in Figure 4 The function shown in the middle is f41(4, m1)). – Receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 from the pressure sensor 1 (in) Figure 4 The function is shown as f42(4,1, s2)). – Switch to transmit mode m2 to transmit a programmed radio frequency signal s3 to the pressure sensor 1 (in Figure 4 The function shown in the middle is f43(4, m2)). – Transmit the programming radio frequency signal s3, which is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz, and includes initialization information I0 (in Figure 4 The function is shown as f44(4, 1, s3(I0))).

[0066] Of course, the electronic device 4 can receive one or more activation confirmation radio frequency signals s2 emitted by the pressure sensor 1.

[0067] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device 4 is further configured to: – The initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is transmitted to pressure sensor 1, wherein the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz (in Figure 4 The function shown in the figure is f45(4, 1, s3)).

[0068] In this case, the device must be switched to transmission mode m2 beforehand. Of course, the electronic device 4 can transmit one or more initial radio frequency activation signals s1 to the pressure sensor 1.

[0069] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device 4 is further configured to: after transmitting the programming radio frequency signal s3, receive a programming confirmation radio frequency signal s4 transmitted by the pressure sensor 1, the programming confirmation radio frequency signal s4 being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz (in... Figure 4 The function is shown as f46(4, 1, s4)).

[0070] In this case, the device must be switched to receiving mode m1 beforehand. Of course, the electronic device 4 can receive one or more programmed confirmation radio frequency signals s4 emitted by the pressure sensor 1.

[0071] In a non-limiting embodiment, when the communication protocol is BLE, the receiving mode m1 is a so-called scanning mode, in which the electronic device 4 periodically scans the communication channel on which the pressure sensor 1 broadcasts an activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 and, when appropriate, a programming confirmation radio frequency signal s4.

[0072] Transmission mode m2 is broadcast mode. In broadcast mode, electronic device 4 periodically broadcasts the programming radio frequency signal s3 and, when appropriate, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1.

[0073] It should be noted that when the electronic device 4 is in scanning mode m1, the pressure sensor 1 is in transmitting mode. In transmitting mode, the pressure sensor 1 periodically broadcasts an activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 and, when appropriate, a programming confirmation radio frequency signal s4 on the communication channel.

[0074] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device 4 is also configured to display to the user a first instruction i5 instructing the program to be followed when programming the pressure sensor 1 of the tire 2 (in... Figure 4The function is shown as f47(4, 44, i5). For example, especially if the initial activation of pressure sensor 1 is performed by electronic device 4 or by activation device 5.

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, the electronic device 4 includes a processing unit 40 configured to perform the functions f41 to f47 described above.

[0076] like Figure 4 As shown, electronic device 4 also includes: – A first data communication module 41 configured to communicate with pressure sensor 1 at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. The first data communication module 41 is configured to establish a wireless communication link with the pressure sensor 1, and includes Figure 4 The antenna 410 shown is configured to receive an activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 and, when appropriate, a programming confirmation radio frequency signal s4.

[0077] In a non-limiting embodiment, the first data communication module 41 is a BLE communication module. In this case, it is configured to establish a BLE wireless communication link with the pressure sensor 1 (in that case, the latter is a BLE sensor). The antenna 410 of the communication module is thus configured to receive an activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 in the 2.4 GHz ISM band according to the BLE communication protocol and, where appropriate, a programming confirmation radio frequency signal s4.

[0078] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device 4 further includes: – A second communication module 42 configured to communicate with the activation device 5.

[0079] In a non-limiting embodiment, the second communication module 42 is configured to communicate with the third communication module 52 of the activation device 5 via a wired or wireless device to transmit data to and / or receive data from it. In one non-limiting example, the wired device is a USB cable. In another non-limiting example, the wireless device is a Wi-Fi network or a conventional Bluetooth network.

[0080] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device 4 further includes a human-machine interface 43 (in... Figure 3 and Figure 4 (as shown in the image), for example, a screen in a non-limiting example.

[0081] In a non-limiting embodiment, the human-machine interface 43 is configured as follows: – Display initialization information I0, and / or – After receiving the activation confirmation RF signal s2, a message msg1 indicating that pressure sensor 1 has indeed been activated and is ready to be programmed is displayed (in... Figure 3 (as shown in the image), and / or – After receiving the programming confirmation RF signal s4, a message msg2 indicating that the pressure sensor has been successfully programmed is displayed (in... Figure 3 (as shown in the image), and / or – Displays the first instruction i5 of the programming procedure to be followed (in Figure 3 (As shown in the image).

[0082] In a non-limiting example, the screen is an LCD screen or a TFT screen.

[0083] In a non-limiting embodiment, the electronic device 4 further includes a memory 44 (in Figure 4 As shown in the figure, the initialization information I0 mentioned above can be stored therein.

[0084] In a non-limiting embodiment, if the activation device 5 is used for the initial activation of the pressure sensor 1, the activation device 5 is configured to transmit an initial radio frequency activation signal s1 to the pressure sensor 1, the initial radio frequency activation signal s1 being an LF signal (in... Figure 4 The function is shown as f51(5, 1, s1)).

[0085] In a non-limiting embodiment, the activation device 5 is also configured to transmit an activation information item i4 to the electronic device 4 indicating that it has indeed sent an initial radio frequency activation signal s1 to the pressure sensor 1. Figure 4 The function is shown as f52(5, 4, i4)).

[0086] In a non-limiting embodiment, the activation device 5 is further configured to display a second instruction i5' to the user, the second instruction indicating the procedure to be followed when programming the pressure sensor 1 (in... Figure 4 The function shown in the middle is f53(5, 55,i5')).

[0087] like Figure 4 As shown, the activation device 5 includes a processing unit 50 configured to perform the functions f51 to f53 described above.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, the activation device 5 also includes: – Low-frequency data transmission module 51 configured to transmit an initial radio frequency activation signal s1 to pressure sensor 1 – A third communication module 52 configured to communicate with the second communication module 42 of the electronic device 4.

[0089] The low-frequency data transmission module 51 includes Figure 3 and Figure 4 The antenna 510 shown is configured to transmit an initial low-frequency radio frequency activation signal s1.

[0090] Activation device 5 also includes: – Figure 3 The housing 53 shown is made of plastic in one non-limiting example. – Figure 4 Battery 54 shown in the image. – Figure 3 The display device 55 shown is, for example, a screen in a non-limiting example, such as... Figure 3 As shown. In a non-limiting example, the screen is an LCD screen or a TFT screen. – Figure 3 The keyboard 56 shown in the image, and – Figure 3 The OBD socket 57 shown is configured, for example, to connect the activation device 5 to the electronic control unit 30 of the vehicle 3, particularly via the OBD cable.

[0091] In a non-limiting embodiment, the activation device 5 further includes Figure 3 The communication port 58 is shown in the diagram. In a non-limiting example, the communication port 58 is a USB port. The communication port 58 is configured to connect the activation device 5 to an electronic device, such as a computer or the electronic device 4 itself. The communication port 58 is also configured to connect to a power source to receive electrical energy intended to charge the battery 54. The power source can be an AC plug or any type of electronic or electrical device capable of supplying power to the battery 54, such as a computer.

[0092] It should be noted that steps E12 and E13 described above can be implemented using software-programmed microdevices, hard-wired logic, and / or hardware electronic components. In a non-limiting embodiment, depending on the adopted embodiment, steps E11 and E11', or steps E11 and E13', or steps E11, E11', and E13' described above are also implemented using software-programmed microdevices, wired logic, and / or hardware electronic components.

[0093] Thus, the electronic device 4 may include one or more computer program products, the computer program products including one or more instruction sequences executable by a processing unit (such as a microprocessor) or a processing unit of a microcontroller, ASIC, etc., the execution of the instruction sequence being used to implement steps E12 and E13 described above, and, where appropriate, to implement steps E11 and E11', or E11 and E13', or E11, E11' and E13'.

[0094] Such a computer program can be written to writable non-volatile memory (such as ROM) or rewritable non-volatile memory (such as EEPROM or FLASH). The computer program can be written to memory at the factory, loaded into memory, or loaded into memory remotely. The instruction sequence can be a sequence of machine instructions or a sequence of command language interpreted by a processing unit at execution.

[0095] exist Figure 4 In the non-limiting example shown, the computer program product Pg is written into the memory 44 of the electronic device 4.

[0096] Therefore, the computer program product Pg includes one or more sequences of instructions executable by an information processing unit. When the program is loaded onto a computer, the execution of these sequences of instructions performs the following steps: – Switch to receive mode m1 to receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 emitted by the pressure sensor 1 of the tire 2 of vehicle 3, wherein the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2 is an radio frequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. – Receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal s2, – Switch to transmit mode m2 to transmit the programming radio frequency signal s3 to the pressure sensor 1. – Transmit the programming radio frequency signal s3, which is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz, and includes initialization information I0.

[0097] In a non-limiting embodiment, the steps are also steps E11 and E11', or E11 and E13', or E11, E11' and E13'.

[0098] Of course, the description of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and fields described above. Thus, in a non-limiting embodiment, the display device 55 and keyboard 56 of the activation device 5 can be replaced by a single element, such as a touch screen, which is used to display information and to activate functions via dedicated icons, or to allow an operator to confirm an operation.

[0099] Therefore, the invention has the following advantages in particular: – This invention enables the use of electronic devices 4 that are already adapted to communicate with the next-generation pressure sensor 1; – This invention reduces economic costs because it eliminates the need to modify the existing activation device 5 to adapt it by integrating a new communication module. – This invention is simple to implement.

Claims

1. A method (Pr1) for programming a pressure sensor (1) of a tire (2) of a vehicle (3), the programming method (Pr1) comprising: – Transmit an initial radio frequency activation signal (s1) to the pressure sensor (1), The programming method (Pr1) is characterized by further comprising: – After transmitting the initial radio frequency activation signal (s1), the electronic device (4) receives the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2) transmitted by the pressure sensor (1), the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2) being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. – The electronic device (4) transmits a programming radio frequency signal (s3) to the pressure sensor (1), the programming radio frequency signal (s3) being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz and including initialization information (I0).

2. The programming method (Pr1) according to claim 1, wherein, The programming method (Pr1) also includes writing the initialization information (I0) into the memory (10) of the pressure sensor (1).

3. The programming method (Pr1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The reception of the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2) and the transmission of the programming radio frequency signal (s3) are performed according to the Bluetooth Low Energy communication protocol.

4. The programming method (Pr1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The initial radio frequency activation signal (s1) is emitted by the activation device (5) of the pressure sensor (1) or by the electronic device (4).

5. The programming method (Pr1) according to claim 4, wherein, When emitted by the activation device (5), the initial radio frequency activation signal (s1) is a low-frequency signal; when emitted by the electronic device (4), the initial radio frequency activation signal (s1) is a radio frequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

6. The programming method (Pr1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The programming method (Pr1) further includes: after transmitting the programming radio frequency signal (s3), the electronic device (4) receives the programming confirmation radio frequency signal (s4) transmitted by the pressure sensor (1), the programming confirmation radio frequency signal (s4) being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

7. The programming method (Pr1) according to claim 6, wherein, The reception of the programmed confirmation radio frequency signal (s4) is performed according to the Bluetooth Low Energy communication protocol.

8. The programming method (Pr1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The initialization information (I0) includes the identification information (i1) of the pressure sensor (1), the location information (i2) of the pressure sensor (1), and the manufacturing date information of the corresponding tire (2).

9. The programming method (Pr1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The electronic device (4) is a mobile phone, tablet computer or computer.

10. An electronic device (4), characterized in that, The electronic device (4) is configured as follows: – Switch to receive mode (m1) to receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2) emitted by the pressure sensor (1) of the tire (2) of the vehicle (3), the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2) being a radio frequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. – Receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2) from the pressure sensor (1), – Switch to transmit mode (m2) to transmit a programmed radio frequency signal (s3) to the pressure sensor (1). – Transmit the programming radio frequency signal (s3), which is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz and includes initialization information (I0).

11. The electronic device (4) according to claim 10, wherein, The electronic device (4) is also configured to: – An initial radio frequency activation signal (s1) is transmitted to the pressure sensor (1), the initial radio frequency activation signal (s1) being a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

12. The electronic device (4) according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein, The electronic device (4) is further configured to receive a programming confirmation radio frequency signal (s4) emitted by the pressure sensor (1) after transmitting the programming radio frequency signal (s3), the programming confirmation radio frequency signal (s4) being a radio frequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz.

13. A computer program product (Pg) comprising one or more sequences of instructions executable by an information processing unit, wherein, when the sequences of instructions are loaded onto a computer, execution of the sequences of instructions enables the following steps to be performed: – Switch to receive mode (m1) to receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2) emitted by the pressure sensor (1) of the tire (2) of the vehicle (3), the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2) being a radio frequency signal emitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz. – Receive the activation confirmation radio frequency signal (s2), – Switch to transmit mode (m2) to transmit a programmed radio frequency signal (s3) to the pressure sensor (1). – Transmit the programming radio frequency signal (s3), which is a radio frequency signal transmitted at a frequency between 2.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz and includes initialization information (I0).

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