TIRE FILLING SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND PROCEDURES

Abstract

A method may include, through the operation of a vehicle system, receiving tire profile data for each of a plurality of tires of the vehicle, calculating a target pressure for at least one tire using at least the tire profile data, establishing a wireless connection with a device separate from the vehicle system, and wirelessly transmitting the target pressure to the other device. Corresponding devices and systems are also disclosed.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to vehicle tires and associated monitoring systems, and more particularly to systems for determining the pressure of vehicle tires. BACKGROUND

[0002] A conventional tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) includes TPMS sensors mounted in each tire. TPMS sensors periodically generate tire pressure readings and transmit them to a central TPMS receiver node. A conventional TPMS sensor includes an RF transmitter and an LF receiver. The RF transmitter transmits tire pressure readings at a relatively high frequency (300-400 MHz) to a central TPMS node. The LF receiver can receive input signals at a relatively low frequency (125 kHz). Tire pressure readings received at a central node can be displayed to a driver and / or compared to predefined limits to indicate when a low-pressure condition exists.

[0003] Air machines are known that can automatically inflate or deflate tires to a desired pressure. A user connects the air machine to the tire and enters the desired pressure. The air machine includes a built-in pressure gauge and a built-in control valve. The machine can increase or decrease the pressure until the desired tire pressure is reached. OVERVIEW OF REVELATION

[0004] Embodiments may include systems, devices, and methods that can generate a target pressure for vehicle tires based on tire tread data beyond a default pressure setting. Tire tread data may include, but is not limited to, tire make data (e.g., manufacturer, warranty), tire history data (e.g., mileage, previous inflation levels), vehicle usage data (e.g., tire position, vehicle loads), and past and / or current environmental data (temperature, time of year). Based on tire tread data, a target pressure may be generated during a tire inflation process and transmitted wirelessly. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS Fig. 1A to Fig. 1F are diagrams showing tire inflation systems according to various embodiments. Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B are diagrams showing tire inflation systems according to other embodiments. Fig. 3 is a block diagram of a tread-based tire inflation system according to one embodiment. Fig. 4 is a schematic block diagram of an integrated circuit (IC) device according to one embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram of an IC device according to an embodiment. Fig. 6 is a flow diagram of a tread-based tire inflation method according to one embodiment. Fig. 7 is a flowchart of a tread-based tire inflation method according to another embodiment. Fig. 8 is a block diagram of a tire pressure sensor according to one embodiment. Fig. 9 is a diagram of a valve stem assembly according to one embodiment. Fig. 10 is a flowchart of a method according to another embodiment. Fig. 11A and Fig. 11B are diagrams of tire positioning operations according to embodiments. Fig. 12 is a flowchart of a method according to another embodiment. Fig. 13 is a block diagram of a “smart” filler device according to one embodiment. Fig. 14A and Fig. 14B are diagrams of smart filler devices according to embodiments. Fig. 15 is a flowchart of a method according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0005] According to embodiments, a system may include a vehicle and a tire inflation device. Vehicle tires may wirelessly transmit tire pressure values ​​to a vehicle system. A vehicle system may calculate target tire pressure values ​​based on tire tread data that goes beyond simple pressure values ​​for the tires. In an inflation process, target tire pressure values ​​may be wirelessly transmitted by the vehicle. In some embodiments, target tire pressure values ​​may be wirelessly transmitted by the vehicle and received by a tire inflation device, which may have wireless communication capabilities. In some embodiments, target tire pressure values ​​may be transmitted by the vehicle and received by a user device.

[0006] In other embodiments, a user device may receive tire profile data and calculate target tire pressure values. In some embodiments, target tire pressure values ​​may be wirelessly transmitted by the user device and received by a tire inflation device that may have wireless communication capabilities.

[0007] In other embodiments, a tire sensor may receive tire tread data and calculate target tire pressure values. In some embodiments, target tire pressure values ​​may be wirelessly transmitted by the tire sensor and received by a tire inflation device that may have wireless communication capabilities. In some embodiments, target tire pressure values ​​may be wirelessly transmitted by the tire sensor and received by a user device.

[0008] In some embodiments, tires of a vehicle can transmit pressure values. In a tire inflation process, a system can detect a tire being inflated by monitoring for predetermined changes in tire pressure (e.g., pressure increase, pressure decrease, or a combination thereof).

[0009] Fig. 1A to Fig. 1E are diagrams of tire inflation systems according to various embodiments.

[0010] Fig. 1A shows a system 100A in which a vehicle can calculate a profile-based target pressure for its tires and wirelessly transmit such pressure values ​​to a "smart" inflation device. A "smart" inflation device and / or a "smart" vehicle can determine which tire is being inflated. A smart inflation device can then inflate the tire to its specified target pressure.

[0011] A system 100A may include a vehicle 102 and a smart inflation device 104. A vehicle 102 may include tires 106-0 through 106-3 and on-vehicle processing circuitry 108. The tires (106-0 through 106-3) may include tire sensors (one shown as 110) capable of wirelessly transmitting pressure values ​​and otherwise communicating with systems of the vehicle 102. The processing circuitry 108 may include a profile-based target pressure calculator 112. The processing circuitry 108 may also be capable of wirelessly communicating with other devices and / or systems. Such wireless communication may be in accordance with one or more standards, including, but not limited to, a Bluetooth (BT) standard (including BLE), one or more IEEE 802.11 wireless standards (collectively referred to herein as Wi-Fi), a cellular standard, and / or a vehicle manufacturer's proprietary standard.

[0012] A smart inflation device 104 may include an inflation controller 114 and an inflation device 116. An inflation controller 114 may establish wireless communication to enable the receipt of target pressure values ​​and any other suitable data included in a tire inflation operation. In some embodiments, an inflation controller 114 may include wireless circuitry compatible with any of those described herein. An inflation device 116 may be capable of inflating and deflating a tire. In some embodiments, an inflation device 116 may be capable of any of the following: automatically terminating inflation operations once a target pressure is reached, wirelessly communicating inflation operation steps (e.g., start of inflation, end of inflation, periodic pressure readings).

[0013] After describing general system components, further reference will now be made to Fig. 1A, a tire inflation process is described. A smart inflation device 104 may emit wireless transmissions indicating its presence and capabilities. Such transmissions may take any suitable form, including, but not limited to, BT advertisements and / or Wi-Fi broadcasts. A processing circuit 108 may detect the presence of the smart inflation device 104, and the two may establish a wireless connection 118-0. In some embodiments, such an operation may include establishing a secure connection using any suitable authentication / encryption method, including those based on a public key infrastructure (PKI). Additionally or alternatively, a processing circuit 108 may transmit advertisements / broadcasts that are received and responded to by a smart inflation device 104.

[0014] In-vehicle processing circuitry 108 may transmit profile-based target tire pressure values ​​to smart inflation device 104 via connection 118-0. Smart inflation device 104 may inflate a tire to its specified target pressure and then stop the inflation operations. In some embodiments, smart inflation device 104 may report various inflation operation actions to vehicle 102 via connection 118-0.

[0015] A system 100A may also include wireless connections between each tire sensor 110 and the vehicle processing circuitry 108 (such a connection is shown as 118-1). Connection 118-1 may be used to periodically report tire pressure to the processing circuitry 108. In some embodiments, such a connection may be used to report tire pressure during a tire inflation event, which may include a tire sensor 110 increasing a sampling / transmission rate and / or transmitting data about the target tire pressure (e.g., the target tire pressure has been reached, is being reached, and / or has been exceeded).

[0016] Connections 118-0 / 1 may also be used to determine which tire is currently connected to a smart inflation device 104. Examples of determining which tire is being inflated are described in more detail herein.

[0017] In this way, a system may include a vehicle that can calculate a profile-based target tire pressure for tires and wirelessly transmit such target values ​​to a smart inflation device. A smart inflation device can then inflate or deflate tires to their calculated target tire pressure.

[0018] Fig. 1B shows a system 100B in which a vehicle can calculate a profile-based target pressure for its tires and wirelessly transmit such pressure values ​​to a user device. A user device can communicate with a smart inflation device to automatically inflate tires to the calculated target pressures.

[0019] A System 100B can include elements such as those of Fig. 1A, and such similar elements are designated by the same reference numerals. Fig. 1B can be Fig. 1A in that a system 100B may further include a user device 120. A user device 120 may include any suitable device, including, but not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet computing device, or a portable computing device. A user device 120 may wirelessly communicate with in-vehicle processing circuitry 108 and a smart inflation device 104. A user device 120 may store profile-based target pressure values ​​122 received from the processing circuitry 108 and transmit such target pressure values ​​122 to a smart inflation device 104. In some embodiments, a user device 120 may include an application executable to provide any or all of the various functions of the user device 120 described herein.

[0020] A tire inflation operation for system 100B will now be described. A user device 120 may receive profile-based target pressure values ​​122 from vehicle processing circuitry 108B via a wireless connection 118-2. Such action may occur before or during a tire inflation operation.

[0021] A smart inflation device 104 and / or a user device 120 may send advertisements / broadcasts to establish a wireless connection 118-3 as described herein or equivalents. Via connection 118-3, the user device may transmit profile-based target tire pressure values ​​to the smart inflation device 104. A smart inflation device 104 may inflate a tire to its specified target pressure and then terminate the inflation operations. In some embodiments, a smart inflation device 104 may report various inflation operation actions to a user device 120 via connection 118-3.

[0022] The connections 118-1 / 2 / 3 may also be used to determine which tire is currently connected to a smart inflation device 104, as described in more detail herein.

[0023] In this way, a system may include a user device that can receive profile-based target pressure values ​​and wirelessly transmit such values ​​to an intelligent inflation device that can automatically inflate the tires to their calculated target tire pressure.

[0024] Fig. 1C shows a system 100C in which a user device can calculate a profile-based target pressure for tires of a vehicle. The user device can then communicate with a smart inflation device to automatically inflate tires to the calculated target pressures.

[0025] A System 100C can incorporate elements such as those of Fig. 1B, and such similar elements are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0026] Fig. 1C can be Fig. 1B in that a user device 120C can establish a wireless connection with tires (106-0 through -3) (one shown as 118-4). A user device 120C can receive profile data for tires and include a profile-based target pressure calculator 112C.

[0027] A tire inflation operation for system 100C will now be described. A smart inflation device 104 and / or a user device 120C may establish a wireless connection 118-3, as described herein or equivalents. Via connection 118-3, user device 120C may transmit profile-based target tire pressure values ​​to the smart inflation device 104. A smart inflation device 104 may inflate a tire to its specified target pressure and then terminate the inflation operations. In some embodiments, a smart inflation device 104 may report various actions of the inflation operation to a user device 120 via connection 118-3.

[0028] The connections 118-3 / 4 may also be used to determine which tire is currently connected to a smart inflation device 104, as described in more detail herein.

[0029] In this way, a system may include a user device that can receive profile-based target pressure values ​​and wirelessly transmit such values ​​to an intelligent inflation device that can automatically inflate the tires to their calculated target tire pressure.

[0030] Fig. 1D shows a system 100D in which a smart inflation device can receive tire tread data from tires of a vehicle. The smart inflation device can calculate a tread-based target pressure for tires of a vehicle and automatically inflate tires to the calculated target pressures.

[0031] A System 100D can include elements such as those of Fig. 1A, and such similar elements are designated by the same reference numerals. Fig. 1D can be Fig. 1A in that a smart inflation device 104D may include a profile-based target pressure calculator 112D. Further, a smart inflation device 104D may wirelessly communicate with tires to receive profile data for the tires. Tire sensors (e.g., 110) may store profile data and wirelessly transmit such profile data to the smart inflation device 104D.

[0032] A tire inflation process for system 100D will now be described. A smart inflation device 104D may establish a wireless connection (e.g., 118-5) with tire sensors 110D in each tire, as described herein or equivalents. Via such a connection 118-5, a tire sensor 110D may transmit tread data to a smart inflation device 104D. A smart inflation device 104D may calculate tread-based pressure values ​​for each tire and inflate such tires to their specified target pressure. In an alternative embodiment, a tire sensor 110D may receive tread data from other tires and calculate a tread-based target pressure value for the tires and transmit such data to the smart inflation device 104D via the connection 118-5.In yet another embodiment, each TPMS sensor may store its own profile data and calculate its own target pressure and communicate such target pressure to a smart inflation device 104D.

[0033] In this way, a system can include tires in communication with a smart inflation device to calculate a profile-based target pressure for each tire. The tires can store and wirelessly transmit profile data to enable profile-based tire pressure calculation. Profile-based tire pressure calculation for multiple tires can be performed by a smart inflation device, by a tire sensor in communication with other tire sensors, or by each tire sensor for its own tire.

[0034] Fig. 1E shows a system 100E including a manual inflation device. A vehicle and / or a user device can calculate profile-based target pressure values ​​for tires of a vehicle. Such values ​​can be presented to a user by a system of the vehicle and / or by a user device.

[0035] A System 100E can include elements such as those of Fig. 1A, and such similar elements are designated by the same reference numerals. Fig. 1E can be Fig. 1A in that an inflation device 124 may be a manual device that cannot receive target pressure values ​​via a wireless connection. In-vehicle processing circuitry 108E may provide profile-based target pressure values ​​to a user in any suitable manner (e.g., via a visual display, an audio message). Additionally or alternatively, a user device 120E may provide profile-based target pressure values ​​to a user.

[0036] A tire inflation operation for a system 100E will now be described. The vehicle processing circuitry 108E may be placed into a tire inflation mode. Such action may occur in response to a user input (e.g., request) and / or a vehicle condition (e.g., tires below a preset pressure threshold). In a tire inflation mode, the processing circuitry 108E may calculate profile-based target pressure values ​​for each tire. Such action may include receiving data from tires via a wireless connection 118-1. Target pressure values ​​may be presented to a user by the processing circuitry 108E. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry 108E may monitor a pressure of each tire (106-0 to -3) and provide feedback regarding the inflation operation. Additionally or alternatively, target pressure values ​​and / or feedback may be provided by a user device 120E.Such feedback by a user device 120E may utilize the wireless connections 118-1 / 2.

[0037] In this way, a system may include in-vehicle processing circuitry that calculates profile-based tire pressure values ​​and provides such values ​​to a user through a vehicle system and / or a user device in wireless communication with the vehicle processing circuitry.

[0038] Fig. 1F shows a system 100F in which a vehicle system can communicate with an intelligent inflation device to automatically inflate tires to calculated target pressures.

[0039] A System 100F can include elements such as those of Fig. 1A, and such similar elements are designated by the same reference numerals. Fig. 1F can be Fig. 1A in that the vehicle processing circuits 108F can communicate with the intelligent inflation device 104 without having to communicate with a tire sensor 102.

[0040] A smart inflation device 104 and / or vehicle processing circuitry 108F may send advertisements / broadcasts to establish a wireless connection 118-0 as described herein or equivalents. Via connection 118-0, the vehicle processing circuitry may transmit profile-based target tire pressure values ​​to the smart inflation device 104. A smart inflation device 104 may inflate a tire to its specified target pressure and then terminate the inflation operations. In some embodiments, a smart inflation device 104 may transmit tire pressure values ​​to the vehicle processing circuitry 108F during the inflation operation and / or report various inflation operation actions to the vehicle processing circuitry 108F via connection 118-0.

[0041] In this way, a system may include vehicle processing circuitry that wirelessly transmits profile-based target pressure values ​​to an intelligent inflation device that can automatically inflate tires to their calculated target tire pressures.

[0042] Embodiments may include automotive systems that include processing circuitry that can store tire profile data and calculate profile-based tire pressure values ​​using such tire profile data. As noted herein, tire profile data extends beyond a predetermined tire pressure. Processing circuitry may be stored in any suitable system of a vehicle.

[0043] Fig. 2A is a diagram illustrating vehicle processing circuitry for enabling profile-based tire inflation operations according to embodiments. Fig. 2A illustrates a vehicle system 202A that may include various systems, including, but not limited to, a TCU 208-0, an ECU 208-1, an IVI 208-2, and other auxiliary systems 208-3 and 208-4. A TCU 208-0 may provide a wireless connection for the vehicle system 202A via cellular networks according to one or more cellular standards. Additionally, a TCU 208-0 may provide wireless communication according to one or more other wireless standards (e.g., Wi-Fi, BT) for communicating with a smart inflation device or a user device to relay target pressure values ​​222 as described herein and equivalents. A TCU 208-0 may store profile data for calculating profile-based tire pressure values ​​and / or receive such values ​​from other systems of the vehicle 202A, including tires and / or tire sensors. Processing circuitry within the TCU 208-0 may include a tread-based tire inflation function 212 (e.g.,B. be configured as such). Such a function 212 may include calculating profile-based tire pressure values, transmitting reported tire pressures in inflation processes, and receiving tire pressure values ​​in an inflation process.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, an IVI 208-2 and / or an ECU 208-1 may include processing circuitry that provides functions 212 for profile-based tire inflation as described herein. An IVI 208-2 may include various systems for providing entertainment functions, including, but not limited to, a display, a radio, and systems for accessing and monitoring vehicle functions. In some embodiments, an IVI 208-2 may also include wireless circuitry for establishing connections with other devices in an inflation process (e.g., a smart inflation device, a user device, tire sensors, other systems). An ECU 208-1 may control one or more subsystems of the vehicle, including, but not limited to, an engine / drivetrain, a powertrain, a transmission, a brake, a body, and / or a suspension.In some embodiments, the ECU 208-1 may have wireless communication capabilities.

[0045] In some embodiments, tread-based tire inflation functions may be distributed 228 across one or more systems, including auxiliary systems (e.g., 208-0 through 208-4). The auxiliary systems 208-3 / 4 may include processing and other circuitry that perform other functions in a motor vehicle (e.g., door / trunk controls / sensors, body cameras, tire sensors, mirror / window controls, radar systems, light controls). Functions distributed across multiple systems may include, but are not limited to, calculating target pressure values, storing tread data, and establishing wireless connections with other systems.

[0046] In this way, functions for profile-based tire inflation operations can be included and / or distributed across any suitable system of a vehicle.

[0047] Embodiments may include user devices in communication with motor vehicle systems that include processing circuitry that can store tire profile data and calculate a profile-based tire pressure using the tire profile data.

[0048] Fig. 2B is a diagram illustrating a system 200 including a vehicle system 202B and a user device 220. A user device 220 may receive profile data 226 from a vehicle 202B. The profile data 226 may include tire profile data and / or user profile data as described herein or equivalents. A user device 220 may include processing circuitry 230 for calculating target pressure values ​​222 using the profile data 226. A user device 220 may also include wireless circuitry 232 for establishing connections with other devices in a profile-based tire inflation process and related processes. For example, the wireless circuitry 232 may transmit target pressure data 222 to a smart inflation device. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the profile-based inflation processes 212 may be performed by an application 234 stored on a user device 220.

[0049] In this way, functions for profile-based tire inflation operations can be performed by a user device in communication with a vehicle.

[0050] Fig. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a tread-based tire inflation system 336 according to one embodiment. System 336 may include processor circuitry 308, memory circuitry 338, wireless circuitry 340, and optionally sensor circuitry 354. Processor circuitry 308 may include one or more processors for performing functions related to tread-based tire inflation operations. Processor circuitry 308 may include a target pressure calculator 312, a target pressure transmission function 342, and optionally a tire status and monitoring function 344. Target pressure calculator 312 may calculate a target pressure value for a tire using any tire tread data 326 and, optionally, any user profile data 352 or data from sensor circuitry 354. Target pressure transmission function 342 may transmit target pressure values ​​to other devices, such as a smart inflation device or a user device.Such functions may utilize wireless circuitry 340. A tire status / monitoring function 344 may monitor a status of tires, which may include periodically receiving tire pressure readings from tire sensors or the like. In the depicted embodiment, tire status / monitoring function 344 may determine a target tire (i.e., a target subject to a tire inflation operation) 344-0. As described in more detail herein, determining a target tire 344-0 may include using wireless circuitry 340.

[0051] The memory circuits 338 may store tire profile data 326 and user profile data 352. The tire profile data 326 may include, but is not limited to, tire identification (ID) data 326-0, tire make data 326-1, tire location data 326-2, tire warranty data 326-3, and tire time history data 326-4. The tire ID data 326-0 may be values ​​specific to a tire (e.g., serial number). The tire make data 326-1 may be manufacturer data for a tire. The tire location data 326-2 may indicate a current mounting location of a tire on a vehicle. A tire location value may be determined according to various techniques described herein. The warranty data 326-2 may include warranty data for a tire. In some embodiments, warranty data may be accessed via a server or the like using tire ID and / or tire make information.Warranty data 326-2 may include dynamic values ​​that change due to time and / or mileage of a respective tire. Time history data 326-4 may be accumulated for tires over time and may include, but is not limited to, mileage, events (e.g., high-acceleration events), temperature history, or pressure history.

[0052] The user profile data 352 may be data selected by a user that may result in changes to the desired tire pressure. The user profile data 352 may include, but is not limited to, performance data 352-0, economy data 352-1, safety data 352-2, ecology data 352-3, and industrial data 352-4. The performance data 352-0 may correspond to a desired vehicle performance, including, but not limited to, traction, ride feel, acceleration, and / or braking. The economy data 352-1 may correspond to energy consumption (battery usage, fuel consumption). The safety data 352-2 may be a subset of the performance data 352-0 and correspond to vehicle response for increased safety. The ecology data 352-3 may correspond to impacts on the natural environment and overlap with economy. The industrial data 352-4 may correspond to the expected use of the vehicle (e.g.,Consumer, industrial, public service). In some embodiments, the user profile data 352 may also include vehicle-related data 352-5. Such data may relate to the vehicle on which the tires are mounted and may include substantially fixed values ​​(e.g., vehicle type, drivetrain / engine, powertrain) as well as values ​​that may change and / or be time-history data (e.g., load).

[0053] Sensor circuitry 354 may detect a vehicle's environment and provide environmental data that may optionally be used for a profile-based target pressure calculation 312. Environmental data may include, but is not limited to, temperature, atmospheric pressure, geographic location, and wireless environment (e.g., noise level, signal power).

[0054] In this way, a tread-based tire inflation system can use various tread factors, including tire manufacturer data, to calculate the target tire pressure.

[0055] Although systems according to embodiments may take any suitable form, including systems with multiple components, some embodiments may advantageously be compact, single integrated circuit devices capable of providing wireless communications according to multiple standards.

[0056] Fig. 4 is a block diagram of a tread-based tire inflation system 412 according to another embodiment. In some embodiments, a system 412 may be an implementation of one of those shown herein or equivalents. A system 412 may include a single integrated circuit (IC) device 456 that can be connected to an antenna system 458. The IC device 456 may include a Wi-Fi portion 412-0, a BT portion 412-1, a General Wireless Interface (GCI) 460, power amplifiers (PAs) 462-0, 462-1, and low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) 464-0, 464-1.

[0057] A Wi-Fi section 412-0 may include processor circuitry 408-0, memory circuitry 438-0, first input / output (I / O) circuitry 466-0, bridge control circuitry 468, and Wi-Fi circuitry 446 interconnected via a backplane board 469. The processor circuitry 408-0 may include one or more processors that execute instructions for Wi-Fi operations, including establishing connections 418 with smart inflation devices and transmitting target pressure values ​​442 to such devices. Such functions may be performed as described for the embodiments and equivalents described herein. A memory section 438-0 may include memory circuitry for storing data accessible by a system 412, including by processor circuitry 408-0, including instructions executable by the processor circuitry 408-0 to provide the described functions.

[0058] The first I / O circuits 466-0 may enable communication with the system 412 according to any suitable interface, including a serial interface or parallel interface. In some embodiments, the first I / O circuits 466-0 may be compatible with one or more serial standards, including, but not limited to, an SPI standard, I 2 C standard, USB standard, CAN bus, PCI Express and / or a proprietary standard.

[0059] The Wi-Fi circuitry 446 may include circuitry for performing wireless communication according to one or more IEEE 802.11 wireless standards, including those operating in the 2.4, 5, or 6 GHz band. In some embodiments, this may include IEEE 802.11-compliant media access control (MAC) layer circuitry 446-0 and IEEE 802.11-compliant physical layer (PHY) circuitry 446-1. The Wi-Fi RF circuitry 446-2 may include multi-band radio circuitry that transmits and receives data on one or more Wi-Fi bands. In the illustrated embodiment, the Wi-Fi RF circuitry 446-2 may drive one or more PAs 462-0 and receive input signals from one or more LNAs 464-0.

[0060] The BT section 412-1 may provide wireless communication according to one or more BT standards. The BT section 412-1 may include processor circuitry 408-1, memory circuitry 438-1, media control circuitry 470, second I / O circuitry 466-1, and BT radio control circuitry 448-0, interconnected by a bus 472.

[0061] Processor circuitry 408-1 may perform various operations related to tread-based tire inflation, including, but not limited to, calculating tread-based target pressure values ​​412 and / or determining tire location 444-0. Memory circuitry 438-1 may store data for performing other wireless operations, including instructions executable by processor circuitry 408-1. In some embodiments, memory circuitry 438-1 may store tire tread data 426, user tread data 452, and / or tire position data 426-2.

[0062] BT RF circuitry 448-1 may be controlled by BT radio control circuitry 448-0 and may include radio circuitry to enable the transmission of messages according to one or more BT standards. In the illustrated embodiment, BT RF circuitry 448-1 may drive one or more PAs 462-1 and receive input signals from one or more LNAs 464-1.

[0063] The media control circuitry 470 may communicate with the Wi-Fi portion 412-0 using bridge control circuitry 468 to control access to a transmission medium (e.g., 2.4 GHz band). In some embodiments, such a communication path may be used by the processor circuitry 408-1 to communicate target pressure values ​​to the Wi-Fi portion 412-0. The second I / O circuitry 466-1 may enable communication with the system 412 according to any of the embodiments described herein or equivalents.

[0064] The Wi-Fi portion 412-0 and the BT portion 412-1 may communicate with a coexistence interface 460. A coexistence interface 460 may enable the Wi-Fi portion 412-0 and the BT portion 412-1 to interface with other wireless systems, such as cellular network systems, including, but not limited to, 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G networks.

[0065] In some embodiments, a BT portion 412-1 may be in communication with BT-based tire sensors to receive tire pressure information and, in some embodiments, tire manufacturer information (e.g., tire pressure, tire make) and / or tire position information. Although Fig. 4 shows the memory circuits 438-1 storing profile and position data (426, 452, 426-2), any or all of such data may be stored in the memory circuits 438-0 of the Wi-Fi portion 412-0 or in other memory circuits (not shown).

[0066] Fig. Figure 5 shows a packaged single-chip system 512 that may include a tread-based tire inflation system as described herein or equivalents. In some embodiments, the system 512 may include the circuits described in Fig. 4 are shown.

[0067] In this way, a single integrated circuit device can provide wireless relay operations from the real world to the virtual world.

[0068] Although embodiments may include the various methods described for tread-based tire inflation systems and described herein, additional methods will now be described with reference to flowcharts.

[0069] Fig. 6 is a flowchart of a tread-based tire inflation method 680 according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, method 680 may be performed by a system in conjunction with a smart inflator device. Such a system may include a vehicle-based system and / or a user device (e.g., an application executing on a user device).

[0070] A method 680 may include receiving tire profile data 680-0. Such an action may include receiving tire profile data in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, a user inputting tire profile data and / or automatically reading such data by a system. Optionally, a method 680 may include receiving such data as described for tire profile data.

[0071] A method 680 may attempt to establish two-way communication with an inflator device 680-2. Such an action may include establishing a connection according to a wireless protocol, including, but not limited to, Wi-Fi and / or BT. If two-way communication cannot be established (N of 680-2), a method 680 may return to receive tire profile data 680-0. If two-way communication can be established (Y of 680-2), a method 680 may attempt to initiate a profile-based tire inflation operation 680-3. Such an action may include exchanging data with an inflator device to determine if the smart device is operating properly and is compatible with a system. If an inflation operation cannot be initiated (N of 680-3), a method 680 may return to receive tire profile data 680-0.

[0072] If an inflation operation can be initiated (J of 680-3), a method 680 may calculate 680-4 a target pressure value for one or more tires using at least tire profile data. Such an action may include processing circuitry of a system that calculates a target pressure using tire profile and optionally user profile data, as described herein or equivalents. It is understood that such a calculation may include any suitable computing system. Further, such calculations may be performed remotely from a vehicle and / or user device, such as by a remote server or the like. A target pressure calculation may take any suitable form and, in one embodiment, may include a tire condition calculation. For example, a tire condition formula could take the following form: Maturity status (vehicle type) = 1 (warranty kilometers − current kilometers) ∗ Vt + 1 (warranty age − current age) where Vt is a vehicle type.

[0073] However, such a calculation is provided only as an example and should not be construed as limiting.

[0074] A method 680 may include determining which tire is undergoing an inflation operation 680-5. Such action may include any suitable method, including, but not limited to, detecting a pressure change 680-50, utilizing the car sensors 680-51, wireless ranging 680-52, or user input 680-53. Detecting a pressure change 680-5 may include a user or an inflation machine inflating, deflating, or both inflating and deflating a tire so that the vehicle can identify a tire (e.g., through pressure changes relayed from a tire sensor or the like). Car sensors 680-51 may include any suitable car sensor capable of locating a user and / or an inflation nozzle near a tire, including, but not limited to, car cameras and / or ranging systems such as radar or lidar.Wireless ranging 680-52 may include any suitable ranging operation according to a vehicle's wireless systems / standards, including, but not limited to, measuring the angle of attack (AoA), a received signal strength indicator (RSSI), or channel sounding (CS). User input 680-53 may include a user identifying a tire and may include entering data into a vehicle system (e.g., touchscreen) and / or a user device.

[0075] Additionally or alternatively, a smart inflation device may determine a tire location and provide such data to a system (e.g., a vehicle or user device). The system may use such data as the tire location and / or use such data to confirm the tire location.

[0076] A method 680 may include transmitting a target tire pressure 680-6. Such an action may include wirelessly transmitting one or more target pressure values ​​over the established two-way communication path. Optionally, a method 680 may include determining whether a message indicating that the inflation operation is complete (i.e., the tire has a desired target pressure) has been received 680-7. If no such message is received (N of 680-7), a method 680 may proceed to transmit a target pressure 680-6. If such a message is received (Y of 680-7), a method 680 may terminate a tread-based tire inflation operation 680-8.

[0077] In this way, a system can perform an automatic tire inflation process using an intelligent inflation device to inflate tires to a profile-based target pressure.

[0078] Fig. 7 is a flowchart of a tread-based tire inflation method 780 according to another embodiment. Method 780 may be performed by a system including a non-automated inflation device. Such a system may include a vehicle-based system and / or a user device (e.g., an application executing on a user device).

[0079] A method 780 may perform actions such as those described in Fig. 6, and such similar actions are designated by the same reference numerals, but with the leading digit being a "7" instead of "6" (i.e., 780-0, 780-1, 780-3, 780-4, 780-5, 780-8).

[0080] In this way, a system can perform an automatic tire inflation process with a non-automatic inflation device to inflate tires to a profile-based target pressure.

[0081] While embodiments may include systems for controlling a tread-based tire inflation process, embodiments may also include sensors utilized in such processes.

[0082] Fig. Figure 8 is a block diagram of a tire sensor 810 according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, a tire sensor may be compatible with a TPMS.

[0083] A tire sensor 810 may include a battery 810-0, a power supply management circuit 810-1, sensors 810-2, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) circuit 810-3, a microcontroller 810-4, wireless circuits 810-5, and non-volatile memory circuits 810-6. The sensors 810-2 may include various sensors for detecting characteristics of a tire, including, but not limited to, a pressure sensor 810-20 and other sensors 810-21. Other sensors 810-21 may include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors and accelerometers. The ADC 810-3 may convert analog signals received from the sensors 810-2 into digital values, including converting tire pressure measurements into digital values ​​for transmission.

[0084] A microcontroller 810-4 may be programmed to perform various functions, including, but not limited to, reporting tire profile data 810-40, performing tire positioning operations 844-0, and optionally performing all or part of a profile-based tire pressure calculation 812 and / or performing an overpressure protection operation 844-1. Reporting tire profile data 810-40 may include periodically reporting tire pressure readings as well as any other data that may be included in a profile-based tire pressure calculation. Accordingly, reporting tire profile data 810-40 may further include reporting any of the tire profile data described herein and / or user profile data and equivalents. In some embodiments, reporting tire profile data 810-40 may vary depending on the operating mode. In a standard mode, tire profile data may be reported over relatively long periods of time.However, during a tire inflation process, tire profile data can be reported at a higher frequency.

[0085] Tire positioning function 844-0 may include a sensor 812 participating in a wireless ranging operation using wireless circuitry 810-5. Such a ranging operation may involve one or more other systems of a vehicle, as described in more detail herein. Profile-based pressure calculation 812 may take the form of any of those described herein, including a distributed calculation involving one or more other vehicle systems.

[0086] An overpressure protection process 844-1 can monitor the sensed tire pressure and compare such pressure to a threshold value, which can be a target tire pressure or a target tire pressure plus a certain margin. In the event that a tire pressure exceeds the threshold value, the overpressure protection process 844-1 can activate an inflation stop signal and, optionally, a deflation signal.

[0087] Wireless circuitry 810-5 may include wireless circuitry for transmitting tire tread data sensed by sensor 812 and for receiving tire tread data from a tire. In the illustrated embodiment, wireless circuitry 810-5 may include BT circuitry 848. BT circuitry 848 may include transmit functions 848-1 that can transmit tire-related data. Receive function 848-1 can receive tread data for the tire, including, but not limited to, tire ID, tire make, and tire warranty data. Such tread data may be transmitted from a tire using tire BT circuitry 874.

[0088] Non-volatile memory circuits 810-6 may store data for a sensor 810. Such data may include, but is not limited to, firmware 810-60 for execution by microcontroller 810-4 to provide the various microcontroller functions described. In some embodiments, non-volatile memory circuits 810-6 may store tire tread data 826.

[0089] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a tire valve stem assembly 976 according to one embodiment. A tire valve stem assembly 976 may include a valve 913 and a tire sensor 910 such as the one shown in Fig. 8 or an equivalent and may be installed in a tire of a vehicle. A valve 913 may be controlled by the tire sensor 910 to inflate or deflate a tire as described for embodiments herein, including, but not limited to, inflating a tire to a target pressure, inflating and deflating a tire to identify its mounting location, and deflating a tire in the event of overpressure.

[0090] In this way, a tire pressure sensor may include circuitry to enable all or part of a tread-based tire inflation process.

[0091] Fig. 10 is a method 1080 according to another embodiment. A method 1080 may be implemented by a tire sensor such as the one shown in Fig. 8 or Fig. 9 or an equivalent. A method 1080 may include collecting tire data 1080-0. Such an action may include taking sensor measurements for a tire, including tire pressure, but may also include any other sensor measurements described herein. Tire data may be transmitted 1080-1. Such an action may include transmitting tire data to another system, such as an in-vehicle system (e.g., a central TPMS node) or a user device. Optionally, a method 1080 may include storing tire data 1080-2 in circuitry localized to a tire sensor.

[0092] A method 1080 may include determining whether a tire inflation operation has been initiated 1080-3. Such an action may include receiving a communication by a sensor from another system, such as an in-vehicle system, a user device, or a smart inflator device. If no tire inflation operation is initiated (N of 1080-3), a method 1080 may return to collecting tire data 1080-0.

[0093] When a tire inflation operation is initiated (J of 1080-3), a method 1080 may optionally establish two-way communication with another system 1080-4. Such communication may be with an in-vehicle system, a user device, a smart inflator device, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, all or part of a profile-based target pressure calculation may be performed 1080-40. In some embodiments, a method may include transmitting a target pressure 1080-41.

[0094] Upon initiating a profile-based inflation process (J of 1080-3), a method 1080 may optionally also increase a tire data reporting rate 1080-5. Such an increase in tire data reporting may be a unilateral action by a tire sensor and / or in response to requests from other systems.

[0095] In a profile-based inflation operation (J of 1080-3), a method 1080 may transmit tire pressure data 1080-6. Such an action may include a tire sensor wirelessly transmitting tire pressure readings while an inflation operation is taking place. Such transmissions may be made to any suitable system (e.g., in-vehicle, user device, smart inflator device).

[0096] A method 1080 may determine whether a profile-based tire inflation operation has completed 1080-7. Such action may occur in response to a message from another system or in response to a time error condition. As long as a tire inflation operation has not completed (N of 1080-7), a method may continue to transmit tire pressure data 1080-6. When a tire inflation operation has completed (Y of 1080-7), a method may return to collecting tire data 1080-0. If a tire sensor was reporting at an increased rate, it may return to its previous reporting rate.

[0097] In this way, a tire pressure sensor can collect and transmit tire data and transmit pressure readings during a profile-based tire inflation process.

[0098] While embodiments may include profile-based tire inflation operations, embodiments may also include determining tire position through wireless measurements.

[0099] Fig. 11A is a diagram of a vehicle system that can wirelessly determine tire position according to one embodiment. Fig. 11A shows a vehicle system 1100A including a vehicle 1102 with tires 1106-0 through 1106-3 and a central node 1184. Each tire (1106-0 through -3) may include a corresponding tire sensor 1110-0 through 1110-3. The tire sensors (1110-0 through -3) and the central node 1184 may include wireless circuits with ranging and / or heading capabilities. Ranging and / or heading operations 1186 may be performed between the tire sensors (1110-0 through -3) and a central node 1184. Measurements from the ranging / heading may be used to determine a tire position. In some embodiments, a position for each tire may be stored in a system of the vehicle, in a tire sensor, or both. In some embodiments, a tire position may be associated with an identifier corresponding to the tire sensor (1110-0 to -3) (e.g.,a MAC address of wireless BT circuits).

[0100] Fig. 11B shows a vehicle system 1100B that may include a vehicle 1102 having tires 1106-0 through 1106-3 with corresponding tire sensors 1110-0 through 1110-3. The tire sensors (1110-0 through 1110-3) may perform ranging and / or heading determination operations 1186 with each other. Measurements from such ranging and / or heading determination may be used to determine tire position. In some embodiments, variations in front tire position due to turning may be used in such determinations.

[0101] In some embodiments, a position for each tire may be stored in a system of the vehicle, in a tire, or both. In some embodiments, a tire position may be associated with an identifier corresponding to the tire sensor (e.g., a MAC address of wireless BT circuitry).

[0102] In this way, tire sensors can determine tire position with or without other vehicle systems.

[0103] Fig. 12 is a flowchart of a method 1280 according to another embodiment. A method 1280 may be performed by a tire sensor or a central node in a position determining operation. A method 1280 may include receiving a tire sensor transmission with position-related data 1280-0. Such an action may include any suitable ranging / direction-determining operation as disclosed herein, including, but not limited to, those using AoA, AoD, RSSI, or CS. A method 1280 may determine if enough tire data has been received to determine a tire position 1280-1. If not enough data has been received (N of 1280-1), a method 1280 may return to receive position-related data 1280-0. Optionally, a method 1280 may receive data from one or more tires (e.g.,Tire sensors), which may include data needed to complete a position determination, request 1280-2.

[0104] When enough data has been received (J of 1280-1), a method 1280 may use the data to determine a tire position 1280-3. A tire position may be transmitted 1280-4. Such an action may include transmitting a tire position to a central node and / or to other tires. Optionally, a tire position may be stored 1280-5. Such an action may include a tire storing its determined position locally. Additionally or alternatively, such an action may include a system that stores position values ​​with a corresponding identifier for the tire (e.g., MAC address for sensor).

[0105] A method 1280 may include determining whether current data has expired 1280-6. Such an action may include determining whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed. Additionally or alternatively, such an action may include an event such as the start of a tire inflation operation. If the tire data has not expired (N of 1280-6), a method may proceed to transmit (and optionally store) tire position data 1280-4. If the tire data has expired (Y of 1280-6), a method may determine current tire position data as invalid 1280-7 and repeat a position determination operation 1280-7.

[0106] In this way, a tire position can be determined using wireless operations to enable such a tire to be inflated to its calculated profile-based target tire pressure.

[0107] While embodiments may include tread-based tire inflation operations, embodiments may also include tire inflation devices and / or methods for tread-based tire inflation operations.

[0108] Fig. 13 is a block diagram of a smart inflator device 1304 according to one embodiment. Device 1304 may include inflation control circuitry 1304-0, wireless circuitry 1304-1, and a pump portion 1304-2. Inflation control circuitry 1304-0 may include circuitry for providing various functions of a tread-based tire inflation process, including, but not limited to, receiving a target pressure 1342. Receiving a target pressure 1342 may include establishing two-way communication with another device / system (e.g., a vehicle system, a user device, a tire sensor) and receiving target pressure values ​​1342 from such devices / systems. Optionally, inflation control circuitry 1304-0 may transmit a tire pressure 1304-00 and / or calculate a tread-based tire pressure 1312.Transmitting tire pressure 1304-00 may include transmitting a current pressure reading to a system / device to enable such a system / device to track tire pressure during an inflation process. Calculating a profile-based target pressure 1312 may include the inflation control circuitry 1304-0 receiving profile data from any suitable device.

[0109] Wireless circuitry 1304-1 may enable device 1304 to communicate with other devices / systems in a tread-based tire inflation process. Wireless circuitry 1304-1 may be compatible with any suitable standard, including proprietary standards. In the illustrated embodiment, wireless circuitry 1304-1 may include BT circuitry 1348 and Wi-Fi circuitry 1346.

[0110] The pump section 1304-2 may include a pump for inflating tires to a desired pressure. A pump section may include a valve controller 1390 for enabling inflation and, in some embodiments, deflation of a tire. In some embodiments, the inflation controller 1304-0 may cause the valve controller 1390 to deflate and inflate a tire to identify it as a tire being inflated. The device 1304 may then receive target pressure values ​​for the identified tire.

[0111] Fig. 14A and Fig. 14B are diagrams showing smart filler devices according to embodiments. Fig. 14A shows a portable tire inflation device 1404A that may include features described in Fig. 13. A portable tire inflation device 1404A may operate according to batteries or power provided by a vehicle. Fig. 14B shows a tire inflation station 1404B incorporating features of Fig. 13 can include.

[0112] In this way, a smart inflator device can receive profile-based target tire pressure values ​​via a wireless connection and automatically inflate a tire to such target pressures. In some embodiments, a smart inflator device can inflate and / or deflate a tire to identify the tire to ensure that the target pressure for the tire is received.

[0113] Fig.15 is a flowchart of a method 1580 according to another embodiment. A method 1580 may be performed by a smart inflator device. A method 1580 may include an initial communication 1580-0. In some embodiments, an initial communication 1580-0 may result in a smart inflator device detecting the presence of a vehicle having tires that can be inflated to tread-based pressure values. In some embodiments, such initial communications may include advertisement transmissions and / or broadcast transmissions 1580-00. Such actions may include, but are not limited to, BT advertisements on predetermined advertising channels and / or Wi-Fi broadcasts over one or more predetermined Wi-Fi channels. Additionally or alternatively, a method 1580 may include listening for other devices / systems 1580-01 (e.g.,Listening for advertisements or broadcasts from such other devices / systems).

[0114] A method 1580 may include attempting to establish a two-way communication 1580-1. Such an action may include establishing a wireless connection with another system / device, including, but not limited to, a vehicle, a tire sensor, or a user device. In some embodiments, establishing a two-way connection may include attempting PKI-based authentication. If a two-way connection cannot be established (N of 1580-1), a method 1580 may return to the initial communication 1580-0.

[0115] If a two-way connection can be established (Y of 1580-1), a method 1580 may determine whether to initiate a profile-based tire inflation operation 1580-2. Such action may include, but is not limited to, receiving a message from another device / system and / or user input, including pressing a button on a device. If a profile-based tire inflation operation is not initiated (N of 1580-2), a method may return to the initial communication 1580-0.

[0116] When a profile-based tire inflation operation is initiated (J of 1580-2), a method may determine whether a profile-based target pressure has been received 1580-3. Such an action may include any of those described herein, including, but not limited to, wirelessly receiving target pressure values ​​from other systems / devices or calculating a target pressure using received profile values. Optionally, a method may include inflating / deflating to identify a tire being inflated 1580-4. Such an action may occur automatically or in response to a message or user input.

[0117] A method 1580 may inflate or deflate a tire to a target pressure 1580-5. As long as a target pressure for a tire has not been reached (N of 1580-6), inflation / deflation may continue. Once a target pressure for a tire has been reached (J of 1580-6), a tread-based tire inflation process may be terminated 1580-7.

[0118] In this way, a method may conduct initial communications that detect or indicate the presence of a profile-based tire inflation service. Two-way communication may be established that provides a profile-based target pressure for a tire, and the tire may be inflated to the target pressure.

[0119] Embodiments may include methods, devices, and systems that, through operation of a vehicle system, may include receiving tire profile data for each of a plurality of tires of the vehicle, calculating a target pressure for at least one tire using at least the tire profile data, establishing a wireless connection with a device separate from the vehicle system, and wirelessly transmitting the target pressure to the other device.

[0120] Embodiments may include methods, devices, and systems that may include wireless circuitry configured to communicate according to at least one wireless standard, receive tire profile data for tires of a vehicle, and transmit target pressure values ​​for the tires. Memory circuitry configured to store the tire profile data may be included. Processor circuitry configured to calculate the target pressure for each of the tires using at least the tire profile data may be included.

[0121] Embodiments may include methods, devices, and systems that may include a plurality of tire sensor circuits, each configured to sense at least one tire pressure for a tire of a vehicle and to wirelessly transmit tire pressure data. Memory circuits configured to store tire profile data, wherein the tire profile data is distinct from the tire pressure data, may be included. Processor circuits configured to calculate a target pressure for each of the tires using at least the tire profile data may be included. Wireless circuits configured to wirelessly transmit the target pressure may be included.

[0122] Methods, apparatus, and systems according to embodiments may include tire profile data that includes tire manufacturer identification data.

[0123] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include tire profile data including a mileage value for tires.

[0124] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include tire tread data that includes warranty data for tires.

[0125] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include, through operation of the vehicle system, receiving user profile data and calculating the target pressure for each tire using at least the tire profile data and the user profile data.

[0126] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include selecting the user profile data from a performance selection, a frugality selection, and a durability selection.

[0127] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include, through operation of the vehicle system, determining a vehicle position of a target tire of the plurality of tires and wirelessly transmitting the target pressure of the target tire.

[0128] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include determining a vehicle position of a target tire by detecting a pressure change in the target tire.

[0129] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include wireless circuitry compatible with any of a Bluetooth standard and an IEEE 802.11 wireless standard.

[0130] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include tire profile data selected from tire manufacturer data, tire mileage data, and tire warranty data.

[0131] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include memory circuitry configured to store user profile data. Processor circuitry may be configured to calculate a target pressure for each tire using at least the tire profile data and the user profile data. The user profile data may be selected from a performance selection, an economy selection, and a durability selection.

[0132] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include wireless circuits, memory circuits, and processor circuits formed in a same integrated circuit substrate.

[0133] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include memory circuitry configured to store user profile data. Processor circuitry may be configured to calculate the target pressure for each tire of a vehicle using at least the tire profile data and the user profile data. The user profile data may be selected from a performance selection, an economy selection, and a durability selection.

[0134] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include memory circuits and processor circuits that are part of a vehicle system.

[0135] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include memory circuits and processor circuits that are part of a user device that is separate from the vehicle.

[0136] Methods, apparatus, and systems according to embodiments may include processor circuitry configured to determine which tire is being filled in a tire inflation operation.

[0137] Methods, devices, and systems according to embodiments may include a tire inflation device configured to inflate at least one tire of the vehicle. The tire inflation device may be configured to receive a target pressure for at least one tire and inflate the at least one tire to the target pressures.

[0138] It is to be understood that reference in this specification to "a single embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, it is emphasized and understood that two or more references to "an embodiment" or "a single embodiment" or "an alternative embodiment" in various parts of this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. Further, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in one or more embodiments of the invention as appropriate.

[0139] Likewise, it should be understood that in the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped into a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof in order to streamline the disclosure and thereby aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects. However, this method of disclosure should not be construed to reflect an intent that the claims require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Instead, inventive aspects lie in fewer than all features of a single above-disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0140] Although this invention has been described with reference to illustrative embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications and combinations of the illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the description. It is therefore intended that the appended claims encompass any such modifications or embodiments.

Claims

[1] A procedure that includes: by operating a vehicle system, receiving tire profile data for each of a plurality of the vehicle's tires, calculating a target pressure for at least one tire using at least the tire profile data, establishing a wireless connection with a device, which is separated from the vehicle system, and wirelessly transmitting the target pressure to the other Device. [2] The method of claim 1, wherein the tire profile data includes tire manufacturer identification data. [3] The method of claim 2, wherein the tire profile data further includes a mileage value for the tires. [4] The method of claim 2, wherein the tire profile data further includes warranty data for the tires. [5] The method of claim 1, further comprising: by operating the vehicle system, receiving user profile data, and calculating the target pressure for each tire using at least the tire profile data and the user profile data. [6] The method of claim 5, wherein the user profile data is selected from the group consisting of: a performance selection, an economy selection, and a durability selection. [7] The method of claim 1, further comprising: by operating the vehicle system, Determining a vehicle position of a target tire from the plurality of tires and wireless transmission of the target tire pressure. [8] The method of claim 7, wherein determining the vehicle position of the target tire comprises detecting a pressure change in the target tire. [9] A device that includes: wireless circuits configured to: Communicate according to at least one wireless standard, Receiving tire profile data for tires of a vehicle and Transmitting target tire pressure values; Memory circuits configured to store the tire profile data; and Processor circuitry configured to calculate the target pressure for each of the tires using at least the tire profile data. [10] The device of claim 9, wherein the at least one wireless standard is selected from the group consisting of a Bluetooth standard and an IEEE 802.11 wireless standard. [11] The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the tire profile data is selected from the group consisting of tire manufacturer data, tire mileage data, and tire warranty data. [12] Device according to claim 9, wherein: the memory circuits are further configured to store user profile data; and the processor circuits are configured to calculate the target pressure for each of the tires using at least the tire profile data and the user profile data; wherein the user profile data is selected from the following group: a performance selection, an economy selection, and a durability selection. [13] The device of claim 9, wherein the wireless circuits, memory circuits, and processor circuits are formed in a same integrated circuit substrate. [14] A system that includes: a plurality of tire sensor circuits each configured to sense at least one tire pressure for a tire of a vehicle and wirelessly transmit tire pressure data; Memory circuits configured to store tire profile data, wherein the tire profile data is different from the tire pressure data; Processor circuitry configured to calculate a target pressure for each of the tires using at least the tire profile data; and wireless circuits configured to transmit the target pressure wirelessly. [15] The system of claim 14, wherein the tire profile data is selected from the group consisting of tire manufacturer data, tire mileage data, and tire warranty data. [16] System according to claim 14, wherein: the memory circuits are further configured to store user profile data; and the processor circuits are configured to calculate the target pressure for each of the tires using at least the tire profile data and the user profile data; wherein the user profile data is selected from the following group: a performance selection, an economy selection, and a durability selection. [17] The system of claim 14, wherein the memory circuits and the processor circuits are part of a vehicle system. [18] The system of claim 14, wherein the memory circuits and the processor circuits are part of a user device separate from the vehicle. [19] The system of claim 14, wherein the processor circuits are further configured to determine which tire is being filled in a tire inflation operation. [20] The system of claim 14, further comprising: a tire inflation device configured to inflate at least one tire of the vehicle, the tire inflation device being configured to: Receiving the target pressure for at least one tire and Fill at least one tire to the target pressure.

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