Deploying resonant sensors into a smart tire ecosystem

Abstract

A disclosed vehicle tire includes at least one resonator embedded within tire material. The resonator may be formed from three-dimensional monolithic carbonaceous growth and may detect electromagnetic pings from an interrogator device. The resonator may generate electromagnetic return signals indicating material state and environmental conditions at positions proximate to the resonator. The resonator may resonate at a first frequency when the material is in a first state or under first environmental conditions, and at a second frequency when in a second state or under second environmental conditions. The resonant frequency of the carbonaceous growth is based on physical characteristics of the material. This frequency-shifting capability enables real-time monitoring of tire conditions including deformation, wear, pressure changes, and environmental factors through passive electromagnetic sensing without requiring moving parts or complex electronics.

Description

LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WODEPLOYING RESONANT SENSORS INTO A SMART TIRE ECOSYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 707,115, filed 10 / 14 / 2024, entitled “DEPLOYING RESONANT SENSORS INTO A SMART TIRE ECOSYSTEM,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to sensors and, more specifically, to incorporating split ring resonators in or on vehicle components to detect physical changes of the vehicle components.DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

[0003] The field of vehicle component monitoring faces a significant challenge in detecting physical changes and deterioration in real-time during operation. Traditional tire pressure monitoring systems and other electronic or mechanical sensors often provide insufficient data fidelity for demanding applications such as high-performance driving, racing, and autonomous vehicle navigation. This issue has become increasingly important as modem vehicles transition toward fully autonomous operation, where technology must continuously monitor vehicle component performance and reliability to ensure occupant safety and comfort without human intervention.

[0004] Existing systems attempting to address this problem encounter several obstacles. These include susceptibility to wear and tear from routine road usage, failure to detect minute changes in material properties, and inability to provide comprehensive monitoring across different types of deformation and environmental conditions. Current sensor technologies may also lack the durability to withstand the harsh operating environments of vehicle components, particularly in tire applications where sensors must endure repeated mechanical stress, temperature variations, and exposure to road debris. Additionally, many conventional systems require moving parts or complex electronic components that can fail over time, limiting their effectiveness in long-term monitoring applications.

[0005] For instance, in high-performance driving scenarios, current tire monitoring solutions fail to detect gradual tread wear or provide real-time feedback on tire condition changes during dynamic maneuvers such as drifting or cornering. Another example is in autonomous vehicle applications, where existing methods are unable to provide the high degree of sensing fidelity needed to detect subtle changes in tire stiction or material deformation that could affect vehicle handling and safety. Furthermore, traditional systems often cannot differentiate betweenLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO various types of material stress or provide location-specific information about where deterioration is occurring within the component structure.SUMMARY

[0006] This Summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form a selection of concepts that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a tire is provided. The tire is formed of at least a body including a plurality of plies. At least one ply of the plurality of plies comprises one or more passive resonators configured to generate respective resonant signals in response to an interrogation signal. The one or more passive resonators are distributed in one or more portions of the tire and configured to alter at least one characteristic of the resonant signal based on then-current conditions. The one or more passive resonators may be formed from a three- dimensional monolithic carbonaceous growth comprising carbon nanotubes, carbon nano-onions, graphene structures, or combinations thereof. The one or more passive resonators may be configured to resonate at a first frequency when the tire is in a first state and resonate at a second frequency when the tire is in a second state, where the first state corresponds to an undeformed condition and the second state corresponds to a deformed condition. The one or more passive resonators may be distributed at different depths within the at least one ply, ranging from 1 millimeter to 100 millimeters, and may comprise a first set of resonators positioned at a first depth for detecting treadwear and a second set of resonators positioned at a second depth for detecting internal tire conditions. The one or more passive resonators may be configured to detect tire pressure changes, tread wear patterns, sidewall deformation, or contact patch pressure distribution through frequency shift, amplitude variation, or phase change corresponding to material deformation within the tire. The resonant signal may be generated in response to electromagnetic interrogation signals in a frequency range of 0.01 GHz to 100 GHz, where the frequency shift indicates a degree of material deformation and the amplitude variation indicates an extent of material wear.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle component is provided. The vehicle component comprises at least one passive meso-, macro-, or micro-resonator (PMR) embedded within a material of the vehicle component. The at least one PMR is formed from a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth. The at least one PMR is configured to have a resonance frequency shift in response to at least one of a reversible deformation, stress, or strain of the material. The material may be a foam-based material that amplifies the resonance frequency shift, and the foam-based material in combination with the atLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO least one PMR may create an ensemble frequency effect based on a combination of the resonance frequency shift of the at least one PMR and a frequency response of the foam-based material. The at least one PMR may include a plurality of first carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to an electromagnetic ping based on a concentration level of the first carbon particles within the at least one PMR, and the vehicle component may further comprise a second PMR including a plurality of second carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate based on a concentration level of the second carbon particles within the second PMR, where each of the first carbon particles and second carbon particles is chemically bonded with the material. An amplitude of resonance of each of the at least one PMR and the second PMR may be indicative of an extent of wear of the material, and each PMR may have an attenuation point associated with a frequency response to the electromagnetic ping.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a construction structural unit is provided. The construction structural unit comprises at least one PMR embedded within a material of the construction structural unit, or placed on a surface of the material. The at least one PMR is formed from a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth and the at least one PMR is configured to respond to a wireless electromagnetic stimulus. The at least one PMR is configured to resonate at one or more corresponding unique frequencies, the frequencies indicating a state of the material at a position proximate to the at least one PMR. The material may be concrete or steel. A first frequency of the one or more corresponding unique frequencies may be associated with a calibration signature of the material, where the calibration signature is measured after the concrete has been poured, cured, and hardened, and a second signature may be measured at a time after the calibration signature was measured, wherein the second signature indicates at least one of a deformation, a change in compression, a change in flexion, a fracture, a strain, or a stress. The at least one PMR may comprise a first PMR and a second PMR, where the first PMR is configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to the wireless electromagnetic stimulus, the second PMR is configured to resonate at a second frequency in response to the wireless electromagnetic stimulus, the first frequency is different than the second frequency, and an extent of shift of a natural resonance frequency in response to the wireless electromagnetic stimulus of the first PMR and the second PMR is indicative of an amount of deformation of the material.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a sensor system incorporating resonators in a tire environment, according to aspects of the present disclosure.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0011] FIG. 2 depicts a manufacturing system for incorporating carbon-containing structures into an elastomeric structure, according to an embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a sensor array showing different configurations of carbon- containing structures, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 4 depicts a sensor system including an activity energy source and pattern generator, according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates a resonator system showing carbon-containing structures embedded within material, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart for optimizing a decision-making process with constraints and parameters, according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 depicts a schematic diagram of an apparatus used for tuning multiple plies of a tire by selecting carbon-containing tuned RF resonance materials from separate and independent reactors for incorporation into the body of a single tire assembly, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 8A and 8B depict a frequency-shifting phenomenon as demonstrated by a sensing laminate including carbon-containing tuned RF resonance materials, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 shows a section of a vehicle surface where an array of individually configured split ring resonators are disposed, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 10 depicts a schematic diagram relating to tire information transferred via telemetry into a navigation system, as well as equipment for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials, in accordance with one embodiment.

[0020] Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONINTRODUCTION OF SUBJECT MATTER

[0021] Various implementations of the subject matter disclosed herein relate generally to deploying durable sensors, made from carbonaceous microstructures. The sensors may be incorporated within vehicle components, e.g., within the plies of the body of a conventional, currently commercially available pneumatic (referring to air, nitrogen or other gas-filled) tire, next-generation airless solid tires, as well as in other positions, e.g., within vehicle bodywork. The sensors may be embedded within portions of tire plies and / or tire tread, e.g., rubber in contact with pavement or ground. Routine tire usage results in degradation of contact surfaces, eventually resulting in bald (treadles) tires incapable of adequately adhering to road surfaces, especially inLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO inclement weather conditions, e.g., snow, heavy rain, etc. Deterioration of tire plies containing sensors produces corresponding detectable changes in sensor response behavior, e.g., relative to both forward rotation and tire strain encountered in lateral tire sliding, e.g., “drifting,” a common maneuver in some enthusiast communities. In this way, both routine (e.g., forward-rotation) tire deterioration can be detected by changes in expected sensor resonance response behavior and loss of tire stiction (e.g., during drift maneuvers) by observing shifts in expected sensor resonance response behavior (e.g., as accomplished through frequency shift-keying, a concept explained further below). Stiction, as commonly understood, may imply the static friction that needs to be overcome to enable relative motion of stationary objects in contact, e.g., as may be encountered during performance driving maneuvers involving lateral movement, such as drifting. This is comparison to kinetic and / or dynamic friction, which may imply concurrent movement between both contacting surfaces, etc.

[0022] Within the context of the present description, the durable sensors may include passive meso-, macro-, or micro-resonator (PMR), split-ring resonators (SRR), carbon-based electromagnetic sensing elements, three-dimensional monolithic carbonaceous growth structures, tuned carbon nanostructures, graphene-based resonators, carbon nano-onion configurations, engineered carbon allotropes, and / or various combinations thereof that exhibit specific electromagnetic response characteristics when subjected to external stimulation.

[0023] The sensors may be configured in diverse geometric arrangements including oval patterns, circular configurations, linear arrays, spiral formations, dispersed distributions, agglomerated clusters, and custom shapes that optimize electromagnetic coupling and sensing performance for particular monitoring applications and operational environments. For example, some embodiments corresponds to a geometric pattern that in turn corresponds to a substantially- circular split ring resonator; however, alternative circuit configurations can have different geometric patterns (e.g., cylinders, ellipses, rectangles, ovals, squares, etc.), and as such, any conceivable geometric configuration is possible. Variations of the geometric configurations can be selected based on the impact on resonation capabilities of the geometric pattern. In particular, and as shown, the geometric pattern can comprise self-assembled carbon-based particles having various agglomeration patterns, any one or more of which can constitute a concentrated region that can impact the resonation performance of materials within which carbon-based microstructures are incorporated. An agglomeration pattern and / or a series of agglomeration patterns may also impact the resonation performance of materials within which carbon-based microstructures are incorporated. As such the geometric pattern functions as a passive meso-, macro-, or microresonator (see Table 7 hereinbelow).LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0024] It is to be appreciated that, as described herein, the sensors may also be incorporated as well within building materials, construction materials, metallic materials, polymers, plastics, foams (both open and closed cell), etc. Further, application of such materials may be within industries beyond the automobile (e.g. aerospace, construction, mining, etc.).

[0025] The carbonaceous materials can be tuned during synthesis to achieve specific expected radio frequency (RF) signal shift (referring to frequency shift) and signal attenuation (referring to the diminishment of signal magnitude) behavior relative to RF signals emitted. Equipment capable of emitting the RF signals may include, for example, a transceiver mounted within one or wheel wells of a vehicle equipped with the disclosed systems and / or by an inductorcapacitor (LC) circuit, also referred to (interchangeably) as a tank circuit, LC circuit or resonator. The presently disclosed implementations do not require moving parts and are thereby less susceptible to wear and tear resultant of routine road usage. Split ring resonators function with preexisting vehicle electronic components, aerial vehicle electronic components, construction (including concrete) components, etc.. Target RF resonance frequency values of disclosed ingredient carbonaceous materials may be tuned within a reaction chamber or a reactor to demonstrate interaction to yield target performance characteristics. The characteristics may be for any number of applications, e.g., knobby, low-pressure off-road tires as well as race-track only slicks without tread. Split ring resonators formed of unique carbonaceous materials demonstrate frequency shifting and / or signal attenuation at specified radio frequencies (RF), e.g., 0.01 GHz to 100 GHz, which may be tuned pursuant to desired applications. Regarding tunability, the carbonaceous materials may be innately grown (e.g., self- nucleated) in a reactor from a carbon- containing gaseous species without requiring a seed particle to generate ornate 3D structures.

[0026] Changes in the environment (e.g., snow, rain, etc.) surrounding a vehicle equipped with the disclosed materials and systems may affect the resonance, frequency shifting, and / or signal attenuation behavior of the split ring resonators. As a result, even minute tire condition changes can be detected and communicated to the driver. For example, should a tire ply containing one or more split ring resonators contact a road surface (e.g., forward-rotation) and thereby deteriorate and / or deform over time, resonance of that split ring resonator within the deteriorating and / or deforming tire ply may change. Further, other detectable changes may occur during drifting (e.g., sideways movement) scenarios, such that signal response of the affected tire ply and / or tread layer containing the split ring resonator may indicate the presence or absence of that tread layer, as well as the degree of wear. As a result, split ring resonators may accurately and precisely detect both abrupt or gradual transitions in weather or other environmental conditions (e.g., performance driving maneuvers).LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0027] Detectable changes and / or shifts in in RF range resonant frequency response of split ring resonators may be detected by stimulating the RF resonant materials within each split ring resonator with an electromagnetic (EM) signal having a known frequency. In some configurations, EM signals may be initially output by an antennae (also mounted on the vehicle) and / or further propagated by patterned resonant circuits (referred to herein as “resonators”, which can be 3D printed onto the tire body plies) mounted within one or more wheel wells. In this way, attenuation and / or frequency shifts associated with respective split ring resonators relative to the emitted signal may be electronically observed and analyzed to gauge current environmental conditions. In addition, changes in the RF resonant frequency (or frequencies) may be observed and compared to known and discrete calibration points to determine tire air pressure as measured at one or more defined detection points on the vehicle’ s bodywork at a given moment in time.

[0028] Conventional use of tires, such as that encountered during on-road driving for most road tires, or off- for off-road tires, can cause slight deformations of portions of the tire, which can cause a change in the natural RF resonance frequency of a respective split ring resonator (at the time y being ‘pinged’ by a RF signal). Such changes in the natural resonance frequencies (as associated with presently disclosed carbons forming various split ring resonators) can be detected and compared to known calibration points to determine conditions inside the tire. Systems employing antennae in combination with the presently disclosed split ring resonators incorporated within tire plies may accommodate both the sensing of tire ply property changes and reporting-out to associated telemetry equipment in the vehicle.

[0029] Of course, it is to be appreciated that although the application of split ring resonators is described in detail with respect to tires (and the automotive industry), such application may equally apply to other industries (e.g. aerospace, construction, materials, mining, oil, concrete, etc.).

[0030] Presently disclosed split ring resonators may be tuned to detect even minute changes in physical properties of respective tire plies (and / or any material or substance in which the split ring resonators are embedded in or on), including changes due to air pressure on a vehicle skin, or due to any external application of forces in / on a tire. Such changes can be detected by “pinging” (e.g., e.g., emitting, and later observation and analysis of RF signals) for then processing the unique set of detected properties (e.g., the “signature”) of a given tire ply, tread layer, or other surface or region as demonstrated by, for example, frequency domain return. Various mechanisms for calibrating an observed signal signature and processing a return signature are discussed. Methods for fabrication of a tire with passive embedded sensors in the form of tuned carbon structures that interact with the elastomer are disclosed. For example, mechanisms used for making a tire from multiple plies may influence split ring resonator natural resonance frequency behavior.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOIn addition, tires may be constructed including multiple tire plies, each tire ply incorporating a distinct tuned carbon having a unique tuned carbonaceous microstructure, which may be micronsized, or alternatively in any one or more of the nanometer, micro, even meso-particle sizes up to the millimeter (mm) level.

[0031] Disclosed split ring resonators may permit for self-powered signatures from resonance in the GHz and MHz range as made possible by tribological power generators (e.g., generating electric current upon, for example, rotation of a vehicle tire and its repeated friction and / or contact with the pavement or ground). Such tribological components can be integrated or otherwise incorporated within multiple steel belts in between elastomer layers in one or more vehicle tire plies. In this way, the split ring resonators may be charged (and / or powered) by the triboelectric generator for the resonator to resonate (and thus emit RF signals) and discharge. The resonator can be configured to accommodate repeated charge-discharge cycles and be in any one or more of a variety of shapes and / or patterns, including ovals that have an inherent resonant value or properties (based on its formative materials and / or construction).

[0032] Changes in the shape or orientation of the resonator may result in a corresponding change of any associated resonation constants. As a result, any change in tire physical properties due to deformation (or any similar deformation of the material in which or on which the split ring resonators are found), e.g., under static conditions like internal tire pressure, or under dynamic conditions such as those encountered while running over Bots Dots, can change the shape or orientation of a respective split ring resonator. Different resonator patterns (e.g., in addition, or the alternative, to split ring resonators) can be used to respond with greater sensitivity to one type of deformation over another (such as referring to lateral deformation encountered while moving around a curve compared to vertical motion encountered while running over gravel or a rough surface). In addition to configurations where split ring resonators change in signal response behavior based on tire deformation, split ring resonators may also electronically communicate with other signal attenuation detection capabilities, e.g., as associated with a digital signal processing, DSP, computer chip and / or transducers placed within the wheel well, or even within the rim, of a wheel. DSP may function with external transceiver (a semiconductor chip) for both stimulus and response; while option. Split ring resonators may also communicate with tribological generators incorporated in individual tire plies and demonstrate resonance behavior that can detected by an external receiver.

[0033] In addition to the foregoing, the present disclosure relates to the field of vehicle component monitoring and sensor technology, specifically focusing on advanced electromagnetic sensing systems for detecting physical changes in materials used in automotive, aerospace, and construction applications. This field encompasses the development of durable, passive sensorsLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO capable of real-time monitoring of material properties such as deformation, stress, strain, and wear in demanding operational environments.

[0034] Current vehicle component monitoring systems face significant challenges including limited sensitivity to detect minute material changes, susceptibility to wear and failure from harsh operating conditions, and inability to provide comprehensive real-time data during operation. Traditional tire pressure monitoring systems and electronic sensors often lack the fidelity required for high-performance applications such as autonomous driving, racing, and aerospace operations. These existing systems frequently require moving parts or complex electronic components that degrade over time, fail to differentiate between various types of material stress, and cannot provide location-specific information about where deterioration is occurring within component structures.

[0035] The present disclosure addresses these limitations through the implementation of split-ring resonators formed from three-dimensional monolithic carbonaceous growth that are embedded within vehicle component materials. These passive resonators generate electromagnetic return signals in response to interrogation signals, with resonance frequency shifts that correspond to material deformation, stress, strain, and wear conditions. The carbonaceous microstructures can be tuned during synthesis to achieve specific radio frequency signal shift and attenuation behavior, providing highly sensitive detection capabilities without requiring moving parts or complex electronics that are susceptible to failure.

[0036] Furthermore, the present disclosure incorporates multiple resonators with distinct tuned frequencies that can be distributed throughout material structures to provide comprehensive monitoring across different regions and types of deformation. The system enables detection of both routine wear patterns and dynamic conditions such as tire stiction during performance driving maneuvers, while also supporting applications in construction materials, aerospace components, and other demanding environments. The resonators demonstrate frequency-shifting behavior that can be calibrated to specific material properties and environmental conditions, allowing for precise identification of deterioration types and locations in real-time operation.

[0037] As found through the detailed description, illustrative information presented is intended to set forth various architectures (including those optional) and uses. It should be strongly noted that the information is set forth for illustrative purposes (to provide as thorough a description as possible) and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Any of the following features may be optionally incorporated with or without the exclusion of other features described.SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates a sensor system 100 incorporating resonators in a tire environment, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the sensor system 100 may beLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent Figures and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the sensor system 100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0039] The sensor system 100 includes a tire 102 configured to support vehicle operation and provide contact with road surfaces during vehicle movement. The tire 102 may be constructed from elastomeric materials including natural rubber, synthetic rubber, and / or various reinforcing agents such as steel belts and textile fibers. In some cases, the tire 102 may incorporate multiple plies arranged in layered configurations to provide structural integrity and performance characteristics suitable for different vehicle applications. The tire 102 may be designed for various vehicle types including passenger cars, trucks, racing vehicles, and off-road applications, with each configuration providing specific performance characteristics related to load capacity, speed ratings, and environmental conditions.

[0040] An antenna interrogator 104 may be positioned to interact with components embedded within the tire 102 through electromagnetic communication. The antenna interrogator 104 may be configured to emit electromagnetic signals and receive return signals for monitoring tire conditions during vehicle operation. In some cases, the antenna interrogator 104 may be mounted within wheel wells to provide optimal signal transmission and reception while protecting the antenna interrogator 104 from road debris and environmental hazards. The antenna interrogator 104 may alternatively be positioned on the axle, in the wheel itself, in the rim, integrated into the tire 102, and / or in other locations that provide effective electromagnetic communication with embedded sensing elements. The antenna interrogator 104 may operate across frequency ranges from 0.01 GHz to 100 GHz, allowing for precise tuning to specific resonance frequencies based on application requirements and environmental conditions.

[0041] Resonators 106 may be distributed within the material of the tire 102 to provide sensing capabilities for detecting material property changes during tire operation. The resonators 106 may be formed from three-dimensional monolithic carbonaceous growth that exhibits electromagnetic resonance properties when stimulated by external signals. In some cases, the resonators 106 may be constructed from carbon nano-onions (CNOs), carbon lattices, graphene, carbon-containing aggregates and / or agglomerates, graphene-based materials, other carbon containing materials, and / or engineered nanoscale structures that provide specific resonance characteristics. The resonators 106 may be tuned to achieve specific expected radio frequency signal shift and signal attenuation behavior relative to RF signals emitted from the antenna interrogator 104. Each of the resonators 106 may be configured to resonate at predeterminedLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO frequencies that correspond to specific material conditions, allowing for precise identification of deformation, stress, strain, and wear patterns within the tire 102.

[0042] The resonators may be configured in various shapes and patterns including ovals, split rings, bars, dispersed configurations, and / or agglomerated configurations that provide different electromagnetic response characteristics and sensing capabilities. The resonators may be formed in any size, shape, or configuration based on specific application requirements and monitoring functions, with the fundamental characteristic being the use of preconfigured carbon structures that serve as the basis for the resonator design. The preconfigured carbon may be tuned to resonate at particular frequencies through controlled synthesis parameters during manufacturing, enabling the creation of resonators with predetermined electromagnetic response characteristics that correspond to specific sensing applications. The carbon-based resonators may be engineered with specific geometric dimensions, structural arrangements, and material compositions that optimize their frequency response for particular monitoring functions, while maintaining the flexibility to be adapted into various physical configurations including circular, rectangular, spiral, linear, curved, or custom geometric patterns. The tunable nature of the preconfigured carbon allows for the creation of resonators with distinct frequency signatures that can be selectively activated and monitored without interference from adjacent sensing elements, regardless of their physical shape or size configuration within the elastomeric material.

[0043] An electromagnetic signal 108 may propagate between the antenna interrogator 104 and the resonators 106 to enable communication and monitoring functions within the sensor system 100. The electromagnetic signal 108 may be transmitted from the antenna interrogator 104 as an interrogation signal that stimulates the resonators 106 to generate return signals indicative of current material conditions. In some cases, the electromagnetic signal 108 may be configured as a ping signal that provides energy to activate the resonators 106 and elicit frequency-specific responses based on the physical state of the tire material surrounding each resonator. The electromagnetic signal 108 may operate within frequency ranges that correspond to the tuned resonance characteristics of the resonators 106, allowing for selective activation and monitoring of different sensing elements within the tire 102. The electromagnetic signal 108 may carry information about material deformation, stress distribution, wear patterns, and environmental conditions that affect tire performance during vehicle operation.

[0044] The resonators 106 may operate together with the antenna interrogator 104 to provide comprehensive monitoring of tire conditions through electromagnetic resonance frequency shifts that correspond to material property changes. When the tire 102 experiences deformation during normal operation, the physical dimensions and electrical properties of the resonators 106 may change, resulting in measurable shifts in resonance frequency that can beLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO detected by the antenna interrogator 104. In some cases, the sensor system 100 may enable realtime monitoring of tire pressure, tread wear, sidewall integrity, and contact patch characteristics through analysis of frequency shift patterns from multiple resonators 106 distributed throughout the tire structure. The electromagnetic signal 108 may facilitate continuous communication between the antenna interrogator 104 and the resonators 106, allowing for dynamic monitoring of tire conditions during vehicle operation without requiring physical access to the tire components.

[0045] The sensor system may provide real-time sensor data 110 collection and analysis capabilities that enable continuous monitoring of material conditions and environmental effects during operational use through coordinated electromagnetic interrogation of embedded resonators. The real-time sensor data 110 may be transmitted wirelessly from the passive resonators to external monitoring systems, allowing for immediate detection of changes in tire pressure, tread wear patterns, stiction, material stress, material deformation, stress distribution, and environmental conditions without requiring physical access to the embedded sensing elements. The system may process frequency shift patterns, amplitude variations, and phase changes from multiple resonators simultaneously to provide comprehensive diagnostic information about material state, structural integrity, and performance characteristics in real-time during vehicle operation. The real-time monitoring capabilities may enable predictive maintenance approaches by identifying developing problems and material degradation before they affect performance or safety, while also supporting autonomous vehicle systems and performance driving applications that require immediate feedback about tire conditions and road surface interactions. The sensor data may be integrated with vehicle control systems to provide dynamic optimization of operational parameters such as traction management, stability control, and route planning based on actual material conditions rather than predetermined assumptions or periodic inspections.

[0046] The sensor system 100 may provide enhanced monitoring capabilities compared to traditional tire pressure monitoring systems by offering location-specific information about material conditions throughout the tire structure. The resonators 106 may be positioned at various depths and locations within the tire 102 to provide comprehensive coverage of different structural elements including tread layers, sidewalls, and internal plies. In some cases, the antenna interrogator 104 may be configured to distinguish between signals from different resonators 106 based on their unique frequency characteristics, allowing for simultaneous monitoring of multiple tire regions. The electromagnetic signal 108 may carry encoded information that identifies specific resonators 106 and their associated material conditions, enabling the sensor system 100 to provide detailed diagnostic information about tire health and performance characteristics.

[0047] In various embodiments, the sensor system 100 may be adapted for different vehicle applications by modifying the configuration and placement of the resonators 106 withinLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO the tire 102. The resonators 106 may be arranged in arrays or patterns that correspond to specific monitoring requirements, such as detecting uneven wear patterns, identifying sidewall damage, and / or monitoring contact patch pressure distribution. The antenna interrogator 104 may be equipped with signal processing capabilities that analyze frequency shift patterns to identify specific types of tire degradation and provide predictive maintenance information. The electromagnetic signal 108 may be modulated to carry additional information such as temperature data, rotational speed, and lateral force measurements that enhance the diagnostic capabilities of the sensor system 100.

[0048] In various embodiments, the sensor system 100 may incorporate multiple antenna interrogators 104 positioned at different locations around the vehicle to provide comprehensive monitoring of all tire positions. The resonators 106 may be configured with different resonance frequencies for each tire position, allowing the sensor system 100 to distinguish between signals from different wheels and provide wheel- specific diagnostic information. The electromagnetic signal 108 may be transmitted using time-division multiplexing, frequency-division multiplexing, and / or code-division multiplexing techniques to enable simultaneous monitoring of multiple tires without signal interference. The sensor system 100 may interface with vehicle control systems to provide real-time tire condition data for integration with stability control, traction management, and autonomous driving systems.

[0049] In various embodiments, the sensor system 100 may be configured for specialized applications such as racing, off-road driving, and commercial vehicle operations by optimizing the resonance characteristics of the resonators 106 for specific performance requirements. The antenna interrogator 104 may be equipped with high-speed data acquisition capabilities to monitor rapid changes in tire conditions during high-performance driving scenarios. The electromagnetic signal 108 may be configured to operate in harsh electromagnetic environments with minimal interference from other vehicle systems and external sources. The sensor system 100 may provide data logging capabilities that record tire condition history for analysis of performance trends, maintenance scheduling, and failure prediction.

[0050] It is recognized that the sensor system 100 may be adapted for various applications beyond tire monitoring by incorporating the resonators 106 into different material substrates and operational environments that require real-time condition monitoring and performance assessment. While the present description focuses particularly on tire applications, it may be recognized that the carbon-based resonators could be used in any context, market, or industry where electromagnetic sensing of material properties is beneficial, including but not limited to aerospace components, construction materials, industrial equipment, medical devices, consumer products, and infrastructure monitoring systems. The fundamental principles of electromagnetic resonanceLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO frequency shifting in response to material deformation, stress, and environmental conditions may be applicable across diverse fields such as structural health monitoring of buildings and bridges, performance assessment of sporting equipment, quality control in manufacturing processes, and condition monitoring of mechanical systems in various industries. The versatility of the tuned carbon structures and their ability to be configured for specific frequency responses may enable customization of the sensor system 100 for specialized applications ranging from biomedical implants that monitor tissue conditions to smart textiles that detect physical activity, demonstrating the broad applicability of the electromagnetic sensing technology beyond the automotive sector.

[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates a manufacturing system 200 for incorporating carbon-containing structures into elastomeric materials, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the manufacturing system 200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent Figures and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the manufacturing system 200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0052] The manufacturing system 200 may be configured to integrate specialized carbonbased sensing elements into elastomeric materials through controlled processing techniques that maintain the structural integrity and performance characteristics of both the base material and the embedded sensing components. The manufacturing system 200 may incorporate multiple processing stages that allow for precise placement and activation of sensing elements within elastomeric substrates such as tire materials, construction components, and aerospace structures. In some cases, the manufacturing system 200 may be adapted for different production scales ranging from laboratory prototyping to industrial manufacturing operations, with each configuration providing specific capabilities for material handling, processing control, and quality assurance. The manufacturing system 200 may utilize automated control systems that monitor processing parameters such as temperature, pressure, and material flow rates to ensure consistent integration of sensing elements throughout the manufacturing process.

[0053] Tuned carbons 202 may be incorporated into the manufacturing system 200 to provide frequency-specific sensing capabilities within the final elastomeric products. The tuned carbons 202 may be synthesized through controlled reactor processes that produce carbon-based structures with predetermined electromagnetic resonance characteristics corresponding to specific monitoring applications. In some cases, the tuned carbons 202 may include carbon nanotubes, graphene sheets, carbon nano-onions, and / or other engineered carbon allotropes that exhibit distinct resonance frequencies when subjected to electromagnetic stimulation. The tuned carbons 202 may be produced in separate reactor systems that allow for independent control of synthesis parameters such as temperature, pressure, gas composition, and reaction time to achieve specificLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO structural and electrical properties. The tuned carbons 202 may be characterized through spectroscopic analysis and electromagnetic testing to verify their resonance characteristics before integration into the manufacturing system 200.

[0054] Raw materials 204 may be processed within the manufacturing system 200 to provide the base elastomeric matrix that supports and protects the embedded sensing elements during operation. The raw materials 204 may include natural rubber, synthetic rubber compounds, reinforcing agents such as carbon black and silica, vulcanizing agents, and various additives that enhance material properties such as durability, flexibility, and environmental resistance. In some cases, the raw materials 204 may be selected based on their compatibility with the tuned carbons 202 and their ability to maintain stable electromagnetic properties throughout the manufacturing process and subsequent operational use. The raw materials 204 may undergo preliminary processing steps such as mixing, heating, and chemical treatment to optimize their integration with the tuned carbons 202 and ensure uniform distribution of sensing elements throughout the final product. The raw materials 204 may be sourced from multiple suppliers and subjected to quality control testing to verify their chemical composition, physical properties, and compatibility with the manufacturing system 200.

[0055] A mix and ribbonize process 206 may be implemented within the manufacturing system 200 to combine the tuned carbons 202 with the raw materials 204 in controlled proportions that achieve desired sensing performance while maintaining material integrity. The mix and ribbonize process 206 may utilize specialized mixing equipment such as Banbury mixers, internal mixers, and / or roll mills that provide controlled shear forces and temperature conditions to ensure uniform distribution of the tuned carbons 202 throughout the elastomeric matrix. In some cases, the mix and ribbonize process 206 may incorporate multiple mixing stages with different temperature and pressure profiles to optimize the integration of sensing elements while preventing degradation of the carbon structures. The mix and ribbonize process 206 may produce continuous ribbons or sheets of elastomeric material containing distributed sensing elements that can be further processed into final product configurations. Additionally, the mix and ribbonize process 206 may include quality control monitoring systems that verify the distribution and concentration of tuned carbons 202 throughout the processed material using techniques such as electrical conductivity measurements and electromagnetic resonance testing.

[0056] An active site 208 may be formed within the processed elastomeric material through the mix and ribbonize process 206 to provide localized regions with enhanced sensing capabilities and electromagnetic responsiveness. The active site 208 may contain concentrated distributions of the tuned carbons 202 that exhibit strong electromagnetic resonance characteristics when stimulated by external signals from the antenna interrogator 104. In some cases, the activeLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO site 208 may be configured with specific geometric arrangements of carbon structures that optimize signal transmission and reception for particular monitoring applications such as deformation detection, stress analysis, and / or wear monitoring. The active site 208 may be positioned at predetermined locations within the elastomeric material based on the intended sensing requirements and operational conditions of the final product. The active site 208 may incorporate multiple types of tuned carbons 202 with different resonance frequencies to provide multi-parameter sensing capabilities within a single localized region of the material.

[0057] Carbon-containing structures 212-0 may be distributed throughout the elastomeric material by the manufacturing system 200 to provide comprehensive sensing coverage across different regions and operational conditions. The carbon-containing structures 212-0 may include various configurations of the tuned carbons 202 arranged in specific patterns, concentrations, and orientations that correspond to different monitoring functions and performance requirements. In some cases, the carbon-containing structures 212-0 may be arranged in alternating rectilinear patterns that provide linear sensing capabilities along specific axes of the material, alternating curvilinear patterns that accommodate complex deformation modes, and / or continuous curvilinear patterns that enable flexible sensing in dynamic applications. The carbon-containing structures 212-0 may be configured in defined sequences tuned to specific frequencies to form an integrated serial number for identification and traceability of individual components throughout their operational lifecycle. The carbon-containing structures 212-0 may incorporate self-curing and / or activated ink additives for binding the resonator material to the elastomeric matrix and ensuring stable electromagnetic properties during manufacturing and operation.

[0058] In various embodiments, the manufacturing system 200 may incorporate specific processing techniques that enhance the integration and functionality of sensing elements within elastomeric structures. The mix and ribbonize process 206 may include a ribbonizing phase where the elastomeric compound is spirally wound onto a forming drum, allowing for precise control of material thickness and layer formation while integrating tuned carbons 202 into specific layers based on predetermined sensor configurations. The active sites 208 may be activated through external energy sources including heat, inductive power transfer, ultraviolet light, or other known activation techniques that initiate chemical or physical transformations to enhance sensor sensitivity and performance. The carbon-containing structures 212-0 may be arranged in grid or linear array configurations within contact areas to enable measurement of specific parameters such as treadwear detection, vibration detection, rotational variation detection, and cradle-to-grave lifecycle management, with sensors distributed in inner regions of the structure to monitor internal conditions. The manufacturing system 200 may accommodate multiple manufacturing techniques for different tuned carbon applications, with the principles and methods for tuning resonanceLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO characteristics being applicable across multiple tread layers or components to enable precision in sensor placement, material selection, and functional tuning throughout the elastomeric structure.

[0059] Additionally, it is appreciated that, as discussed further below, one way to introduce tuned carbons into an elastomeric compound is shown and described in FIG. 7 hereinbelow. It is to be appreciated that FIG. 7 depicts a schematic diagram 700 for fine-adjustment, or tuning, of multiple body plies and / or tread layers of a tire by selecting carbon-containing tuned resonance materials for incorporation into a tire assembly or structure, which can be implemented in any environment. Additionally, FIG. 7 relates specifically to Tread Layer ("T.L.") 1, 2, 3, and 4, each representing a separate component of the tire's layered structure, whereas the rubber ribbon depicted in FIG. 2 refers to only one tread layer. However, the principles and methods described in FIG. 7 for tuning the resonance of these layers by selecting carbon-containing materials can be equally applied to the rubber ribbon in FIG. 2, allowing for precision in sensor placement, material selection, and functional tuning across multiple tread layers or components in the tire.

[0060] FIG. 3 illustrates a sensor array 300 showing different configurations of carbon- containing structures arranged for specific monitoring functions, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the sensor array 300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent Figures and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the sensor array 300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0061] The sensor array 300 may be configured to provide comprehensive monitoring capabilities across different operational parameters and material conditions through the strategic arrangement of specialized sensing elements within the elastomeric substrate. The sensor array 300 may incorporate multiple sensing zones that correspond to different monitoring functions, with each zone containing carbon-containing structures 212-0 optimized for specific detection capabilities and electromagnetic response characteristics. In some cases, the sensor array 300 may be designed to accommodate simultaneous monitoring of multiple parameters without signal interference between different sensing elements, allowing for comprehensive real-time assessment of material conditions during operation. Further, the sensor array 300 may be integrated into various product configurations such as tire plies, structural components, and construction materials, with each application requiring specific arrangements of sensing elements to address particular operational requirements and environmental conditions.

[0062] A treadwear detection sensor 212-1 may be positioned within the sensor array 300 to monitor material degradation and surface wear patterns that occur during normal operational use. The treadwear detection sensor 212-1 may contain carbon-containing structures 212-0LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO configured to detect changes in material thickness, surface texture, and structural integrity that correspond to progressive wear conditions. In some cases, the treadwear detection sensor 212-1 may be positioned near surface regions of the elastomeric material where wear typically occurs, allowing for early detection of degradation before critical performance thresholds are exceeded. The treadwear detection sensor 212-1 may utilize frequency shift detection to identify specific wear patterns and provide quantitative measurements of remaining material thickness and projected service life. The treadwear detection sensor 212-1 may be calibrated to distinguish between normal wear patterns and abnormal degradation modes such as uneven wear, accelerated deterioration, and / or damage from foreign objects.

[0063] A vibration detection sensor 212-2 may be incorporated within the sensor array 300 to monitor dynamic loading conditions and oscillatory forces that affect material performance and structural integrity. The vibration detection sensor 212-2 may contain carbon-containing structures 212-0 tuned to respond to specific frequency ranges corresponding to operational vibrations, resonance modes, and dynamic loading patterns. In some cases, the vibration detection sensor 212- 2 may be positioned at locations within the elastomeric material that experience significant dynamic stresses during operation, such as contact regions, mounting interfaces, and / or structural transition zones. The vibration detection sensor 212-2 may provide real-time monitoring of vibration amplitude, frequency content, and temporal patterns that indicate normal operation, developing problems, and / or critical failure conditions. The vibration detection sensor 212-2 may be configured to detect both low-frequency vibrations associated with operational imbalances and high-frequency vibrations that may indicate material fatigue and / or structural damage.

[0064] A rotational variation sensor 212-3 may be integrated within the sensor array 300 to monitor rotational dynamics and detect irregularities in rotational motion that may indicate developing mechanical problems and / or performance degradation. The rotational variation sensor 212-3 may contain carbon-containing structures 212-0 configured to respond to changes in rotational speed, acceleration patterns, and periodic variations that occur during normal and abnormal operational conditions. In some cases, the rotational variation sensor 212-3 may be positioned to detect lateral forces and sliding conditions that occur during performance driving maneuvers such as cornering, braking, and / or acceleration events. The rotational variation sensor 212-3 may provide measurements of stiction characteristics by detecting the transition between static and kinetic friction conditions at the interface between the elastomeric material and contact surfaces. The rotational variation sensor 212-3 may be calibrated to distinguish between normal operational variations and abnormal conditions that may indicate mechanical problems, material degradation, and / or environmental factors affecting performance.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0065] A lifecycle management sensor 212-4 may be positioned within the sensor array 300 to provide comprehensive monitoring of material condition throughout the operational lifetime of the component. The lifecycle management sensor 212-4 may contain carbon-containing structures 212-0 configured to track cumulative effects of operational stresses, environmental exposure, and aging processes that affect long-term material performance and reliability. In some cases, the lifecycle management sensor 212-4 may monitor multiple parameters simultaneously, including mechanical properties, chemical stability, and electromagnetic characteristics that change over time due to operational use and environmental factors. The lifecycle management sensor 212-4 may provide predictive maintenance information by analyzing trends in material properties and identifying conditions that may lead to performance degradation and / or failure. The lifecycle management sensor 212-4 may be configured to maintain stable sensing capabilities throughout the expected service life of the component, providing continuous monitoring from initial installation through end-of-life disposal and / or recycling processes.

[0066] The manufacturing system 200 may utilize various deposition techniques to integrate the carbon-containing structures 212-0 into elastomeric materials with precise control over placement, concentration, and activation characteristics. The manufacturing system 200 may incorporate plasma spray torch systems that provide controlled deposition of tuned carbons 202 onto substrate surfaces with precise control over particle velocity, temperature, and deposition patterns. In some cases, the manufacturing system 200 may utilize inkjet printing systems that enable precise placement of carbon-containing inks in predetermined patterns and concentrations corresponding to specific sensing requirements. The manufacturing system 200 may incorporate stamping processes that transfer carbon-containing materials from prepared templates onto elastomeric substrates, transfer tape systems that provide controlled application of pre-patterned sensing elements, and / or screen printing techniques that enable large-area deposition of sensing materials with uniform thickness and distribution.

[0067] Additionally, the manufacturing system 200 may implement substrate pretreatment processes to optimize the integration and performance of embedded sensing elements within elastomeric materials. The manufacturing system 200 may utilize chemical treatment methods that modify surface chemistry and enhance bonding between the tuned carbons 202 and the elastomeric matrix, ensuring stable integration throughout operational use. In some cases, the manufacturing system 200 may incorporate physical treatment processes such as mechanical abrasion, surface texturing, and / or corona treatment that increase surface area and improve adhesion characteristics. The manufacturing system 200 may utilize flame treatment systems that provide controlled oxidation of substrate surfaces to enhance chemical bonding, and / or plasma treatment systems that modify surface properties through controlled exposure to ionized gases. The manufacturing systemLYTIP107P / LYTEP291WO200 may incorporate quality control systems that verify the effectiveness of pretreatment processes through adhesion testing, surface analysis, and electromagnetic characterization of the integrated sensing elements.

[0068] In various embodiments, the manufacturing system 200 may be configured for different production scales and material types by modifying processing parameters, equipment configurations, and quality control procedures to accommodate specific application requirements. The manufacturing system 200 may incorporate modular processing stations that can be reconfigured for different product types, allowing for flexible manufacturing of sensing-enabled elastomeric components for automotive, aerospace, construction, and industrial applications. The sensor array 300 may be customized for specific monitoring requirements by adjusting the number, type, and arrangement of sensing elements based on operational conditions, performance requirements, and environmental factors that affect component behavior. The manufacturing system 200 may incorporate advanced process control systems that optimize processing parameters in real-time based on material properties, environmental conditions, and quality control feedback to ensure consistent production of high-performance sensing-enabled components.

[0069] In various embodiments, the manufacturing system 200 may integrate with automated handling systems that manage material flow, processing sequences, and quality control operations to minimize human intervention and ensure consistent product quality. The sensor array 300 may be designed with redundant sensing elements that provide backup monitoring capabilities in case of individual sensor failure, ensuring continued operation and safety monitoring throughout the component lifecycle. The manufacturing system 200 may incorporate data logging and traceability systems that record processing parameters, material properties, and quality control results for each manufactured component, enabling comprehensive lifecycle tracking and performance analysis. The sensor array 300 may be configured with wireless communication capabilities that enable remote monitoring and data collection without requiring physical access to embedded sensing elements during operation.

[0070] In various embodiments, the manufacturing system 200 may be adapted for specialized applications such as high-temperature environments, corrosive conditions, and / or extreme mechanical loading by selecting appropriate materials, processing techniques, and protective measures that ensure long-term sensing performance. The sensor array 300 may incorporate self-diagnostic capabilities that monitor the health and performance of individual sensing elements, providing early warning of sensor degradation and enabling predictive maintenance of the monitoring system itself. The manufacturing system 200 may utilize advanced materials characterization techniques such as electron microscopy, spectroscopic analysis, and electromagnetic testing to verify the structure and properties of integrated sensing elementsLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO throughout the manufacturing process. The sensor array 300 may be designed with scalable architectures that allow for the addition of new sensing capabilities and monitoring functions as technology advances and application requirements evolve.

[0071] In various embodiments, the sensor array 300 may be configured as a ribbon of elastic material with different quadrants incorporating distinct tuned carbon-containing structures for specialized monitoring functions. The treadwear detection sensor 212-1 may be positioned in an upper left quadrant and configured to sense material changes such as wear and degradation over time by monitoring electrical, thermal, or other properties that change as the material is subjected to wear, providing real-time data collection for monitoring material lifespan and detecting early signs of failure to enable optimal maintenance, replacement, or servicing timing. The vibration detection sensor 212-2 may be located in an upper right quadrant and tuned to detect oscillations or movements by measuring fluctuations in electrical resistance, capacitance, or other properties responsive to vibration, enabling monitoring of operational stability, detection of mechanical imbalances, and prevention of potential malfunctions in applications requiring precise vibration monitoring. The rotational variation sensor 212-3 may be positioned in a lower left quadrant and designed to detect fluctuations in force, speed, or rotational consistency for monitoring irregularities in rotational motion, including torque variations, rotational misalignment, and inconsistencies that might affect performance in rotating machinery or other mechanical systems, with additional capability to measure stiction characteristics. The lifecycle management sensor 212-4 may be embedded in a lower right quadrant to monitor the overall condition of the material throughout its lifecycle by tracking data related to wear, environmental exposure, performance, and other factors, enabling assessment from initial use through end-of-life and supporting decisions about maintenance, replacement, recycling, or disposal while contributing to sustainability through insights into material longevity and recyclability.

[0072] It is to be recognized that the sensor array 300 may be configured with flexible arrangements of the preconfigured carbon sensors within the ribbon based on the specific needs and intended use of the elastomeric material, allowing for customization of sensor placement, density, and functionality to optimize monitoring capabilities for particular applications. The exact arrangements of the treadwear detection sensor 212-1, vibration detection sensor 212-2, rotational variation sensor 212-3, and lifecycle management sensor 212-4 within the ribbon may be altered, repositioned, or reconfigured to accommodate different operational requirements, environmental conditions, and performance specifications that vary across different industries and use cases. As such, the modular nature of the carbon-containing structures 212-0 may enable manufacturers to adjust sensor configurations during production to create specialized ribbon formulations for automotive tires, aerospace components, construction materials, or industrial applications, withLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO each configuration optimized for the specific monitoring parameters and operational stresses encountered in the intended application environment. The sensor array 300 may accommodate various ribbon geometries, thicknesses, and material compositions while maintaining the fundamental electromagnetic sensing capabilities, providing manufacturers with the flexibility to adapt the sensing technology to diverse market requirements and application-specific performance criteria.

[0073] FIG. 4 illustrates a sensor system 400 including an activity energy source and pattern generator, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the sensor system 400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent Figures and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the sensor system 400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0074] The sensor system 400 may be configured to provide controlled activation and patterning of carbon-containing structures 212-0 within elastomeric materials through precise energy delivery and spatial control mechanisms. Additionally, the sensor system 400 may incorporate advanced energy management systems that enable selective activation of specific regions within the material while maintaining the structural integrity and performance characteristics of both the elastomeric matrix and the embedded sensing elements.

[0075] An activity energy source 422 may be positioned within the sensor system 400 to provide controlled energy delivery for activating carbon-containing structures 212-0 embedded within elastomeric substrates. The activity energy source 422 may be configured to generate various forms of energy including thermal energy, electromagnetic radiation, plasma discharge, and / or inductive power transfer that interact with the tuned carbons 202 to enhance their electromagnetic response characteristics. In some cases, the activity energy source 422 may utilize ultraviolet light sources that provide photochemical activation of carbon structures through controlled exposure to specific wavelengths that promote chemical bonding and structural modifications. The activity energy source 422 may incorporate inductive power transfer systems that generate electromagnetic fields capable of activating carbon-containing structures 212-0 without direct physical contact, allowing for activation through material thicknesses and complex geometries.

[0076] In some embodiments, the activity energy source 422 may be equipped with power control systems that regulate energy output based on material properties, activation requirements, and processing conditions to prevent damage to the elastomeric matrix while ensuring effective activation of embedded sensing elements.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0077] A pattern generator 424 may be operatively connected to the activity energy source 422 to provide spatial control over energy delivery and enable selective activation of specific regions within the elastomeric material. The pattern generator 424 may be configured to direct energy from the activity energy source 422 to predetermined locations based on programmed activation patterns that correspond to specific sensing requirements and monitoring functions. In some cases, the pattern generator 424 may utilize scanning systems that move the energy source across the material surface in controlled patterns, allowing for precise placement of activated regions and complex geometric arrangements of sensing elements. The pattern generator 424 may incorporate masking systems that selectively block energy delivery to specific areas, enabling the creation of intricate activation patterns without requiring mechanical movement of the energy source. The pattern generator 424 may be equipped with positioning control systems that provide sub-millimeter accuracy in energy placement, allowing for the creation of high-resolution sensing arrays and complex interconnected sensing networks within the elastomeric material.

[0078] An activation region 426 may be formed within the elastomeric material through the controlled interaction between the activity energy source 422 and the pattern generator 424, creating localized areas with enhanced electromagnetic response characteristics. The activation region 426 may contain carbon-containing structures 212-0 that have undergone structural and / or chemical modifications that improve their resonance properties and signal transmission capabilities. In some cases, the activation region 426 may be configured with specific geometric shapes and dimensions that optimize electromagnetic coupling between the embedded sensing elements and external interrogation systems such as the antenna interrogator 104. The activation region 426 may incorporate multiple layers of activated material that provide different sensing functions and frequency responses within a single localized area of the elastomeric substrate. Further, the activation region 426 may be designed to maintain stable activation characteristics throughout the operational lifetime of the component, providing consistent sensing performance under various environmental conditions and mechanical stresses.

[0079] A side view 420 may illustrate the cross-sectional configuration of the sensor system 400 and demonstrate the spatial relationships between the activity energy source 422, pattern generator 424, and activation region 426 within the elastomeric material. The side view 420 may show the penetration depth of energy delivery and the resulting activation patterns that extend through the material thickness based on the energy characteristics and material properties. In some cases, the side view 420 may illustrate the layered structure of the elastomeric material and the distribution of carbon-containing structures 212-0 at different depths and locations within the substrate. The side view 420 may demonstrate how the activation region 426 extends throughLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO multiple layers of the material to create three-dimensional sensing networks that provide comprehensive monitoring capabilities.

[0080] The activity energy source 422 may operate together with the pattern generator 424 to create complex activation patterns that enable advanced sensing capabilities such as directional sensitivity, multi-parameter monitoring, and spatial resolution enhancement. The activity energy source 422 may be configured to provide different energy intensities and exposure durations for different regions of the material, allowing for the creation of sensing elements with varying sensitivity levels and response characteristics. In some cases, the pattern generator 424 may be programmed to create activation patterns that correspond to specific geometric arrangements such as arrays, grids, spirals, and / or custom shapes that optimize sensing performance for particular applications. The activation region 426 may be formed through multiple activation cycles that build up the desired sensing characteristics gradually, allowing for fine-tuning of electromagnetic properties and optimization of signal quality. Further, the sensor system 400 may incorporate feedback control systems that monitor the activation process and adjust parameters in real-time to ensure consistent and repeatable results across different material batches and processing conditions. In some cases, the pattern generator 424 may be programmed with multiple activation sequences that create sensing elements with different frequency responses, sensitivity levels, and monitoring functions within a single elastomeric component.

[0081] In various embodiments, the sensor system 400 may be configured to process elastomeric materials with specific thickness (T) dimensions that represent the vertical dimension from the upper surface into the bulk material, with embedded tuned carbon-containing structures distributed across different layers or depths depending on their intended functionality for wear detection, vibration detection, or other monitoring capabilities. The activity energy source 422 may be positioned adjacent to the elastomeric material and configured to penetrate to predetermined depths throughout the thickness (T), curing the embedded carbon structures and their surroundings to enhance the fidelity of measuring material conditions. The pattern generator 424 may enable precise control over which regions of the material are activated by selectively activating outer layers for real-time wear detection while reserving activation of deeper layers for structural monitoring functions such as vibration or rotational stability, maximizing energy efficiency and enhancing overall monitoring system performance.

[0082] In various embodiments, the activation process may involve the application of sufficient energy to carbon-containing structures to initiate chemical or physical transformations including bond cleavage, polymerization, or molecular rearrangement that modify the material's chemical composition or physical properties, with the term "activation" referring to anyLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO modification to the elastomer and / or any modification to materials or structures on or in the elastomer and / or any region in proximity to the elastomer.

[0083] Further, one particular technique may involve the use of plasma spray torch, which allows precise manipulation of macro / micro characteristics of the elastomer material. Specifically, the plasma spray torch is used to implant tuned carbon molecules into the surface of the elastomer ribbon forming a specific pattern. Further details pertaining to the plasma spray torch and / or methods of use can be found in U.S. Patent No. 11,739,409, issued August 29, 2023, entitled "Apparatuses and Methods For Producing Covetic Materials Using Microwave Reactors", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0084] Additionally, FIG. 5 illustrates a detailed view of an elastomeric material that incorporates various configurations of carbon-containing structures, each occupying distinct sections within the material's thickness (T). These configurations, for illustrative purposes, include: (1) a defined sequence of carbon structures, each individually and respectively tuned to a specific frequency to form an integrated serial number, (2) an alternating rectilinear pattern, (3) an alternating curvilinear pattern, and (4) a continuous curvilinear pattern. The different arrangements of carbon-containing structures provide enhanced functional capabilities tailored to specific detection, tracking, and monitoring needs.

[0085] The first section of FIG. 5 demonstrates a defined sequence of carbon-containing structures that are individually and respectively tuned to specific frequencies. This sequence is arranged such that each carbon structure responds to a unique frequency, forming a collective pattern that functions as an integrated serial number. This serial number configuration provides a means for identification and traceability of the elastomeric material(e.g. tire). The sequence can be activated by an external interrogator that reads the distinct frequency responses of each tuned carbon structure. This approach ensures that the material carries a secure, embedded identification system that cannot be easily altered or tampered with, making it particularly useful in applications such as product authentication, material tracking, or anti-counterfeiting measures.

[0086] The second section of FIG. 5 depicts an alternating pattern of carbon-containing structures embedded within the elastomer. In this configuration, the carbon structures are arranged in a regular, alternating pattern that alternates between different properties or functionalities, such as electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, or thermal response. This alternating pattern allows for multi-functional capabilities within the elastomeric material, enabling it to perform various tasks, such as sensing different environmental stimuli or detecting changes in pressure, temperature, or strain. The alternating pattern enhances the versatility of the material by allowing it to adapt to multiple operational requirements.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0087] In the third section, a curvilinear pattern of carbon-containing structures is shown. This configuration involves the arrangement of the carbon structures along curved or arced paths within the elastomeric material. The curvilinear pattern is particularly suited for applications that require flexible, non-linear sensing capabilities, such as in materials that experience complex deformations or dynamic stress distributions. The curved paths allow the carbon structures to maintain their functionality even under significant mechanical strain or bending, making this configuration ideal for wearable technologies, flexible electronics, or automotive components that experience frequent movement and deformation.

[0088] The fourth section of FIG. 5 illustrates a rectilinear pattern, where the carbon- containing structures are arranged in continuous paths. This configuration provides a more rigid, structured pattern that is highly effective for applications requiring precise and consistent monitoring of linear or planar surfaces. The rectilinear arrangement can be used for tracking mechanical stress, strain, or temperature along defined axes, making it ideal for industrial applications, such as conveyor belts, mechanical actuators, or structural components that require linear stability and monitoring.

[0089] As depicted in FIG. 5, the elastomeric material's thickness (T) accommodates these four distinct patterns of carbon-containing structures, each occupying a separate section within the material. By integrating these various configurations, the elastomeric material is endowed with multi-functional capabilities, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of sensing and detection applications. The placement of these patterns within the material's thickness allows for layered sensing functions, wherein each pattern is optimized for a particular task or set of conditions. The defined sequence of tuned frequencies offers a secure, embedded serial numbering system for identification and tracking, while the alternating pattern provides multi-functional adaptability across various sensing modalities. The curvilinear pattern ensures flexibility and resilience in dynamic environments, and the rectilinear pattern offers precision monitoring along linear axes.

[0090] FIG. 5 demonstrates how the elastomeric material can incorporate a variety of carbon-containing structures, including a defined frequency-tuned sequence, alternating patterns, curvilinear paths, and rectilinear arrangements, across its thickness. These configurations provide a versatile and robust platform for real-time monitoring, identification, and environmental sensing, making the material highly suitable for applications in fields such as industrial monitoring, wearable technology, automotive engineering, etc. The combination of these patterns within the elastomeric material allows for a tailored response to specific operational needs, enhancing its functional range and adaptability across diverse applications.

[0091] The tuning process for these configurations is described in FIG. 8A and 8B. FIG. 8A depicts a first carbon-containing structure that resonates at a first frequency, which can beLYTIP107P / LYTEP291WO correlated to an equivalent electrical circuit comprising a capacitor Cl and an inductor LI. FIG. 8B depicts a slight deformation of the same first carbon-containing structure of FIG. 8A. The deformation causes a change to the physical structure, which in turn changes the inductance and / or capacitance of the structure. The changes can be correlated to an equivalent electrical circuit comprising a capacitor C2 and an inductor L2. The frequency f2 is given by the equation previously listed. For instance, in the first section of FIG. 9, each carbon-tuned structure resonates at its corresponding frequency, using the tuning method shown in FIG. 8 A and 8B.

[0092] FIG. 6 illustrates a process 600 for optimizing the decision-making process to implement carbon-containing structures within elastomeric materials, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the process 600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent Figures and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the process 600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0093] The process 600 may be configured to provide systematic optimization of manufacturing parameters through structured evaluation of operational constraints and technical requirements that affect the integration of the resonators 106 within elastomeric materials. The process 600 may incorporate automated decision-making algorithms that analyze multiple variables simultaneously to identify optimal configurations for specific applications such as automotive tires, aerospace components, and / or construction materials.

[0094] Constraints 628 may be incorporated within the process 600 to define operational limitations and requirements that affect the selection of manufacturing parameters and processing techniques for integrating the carbon-containing structures 212-0 within elastomeric substrates. The constraints 628 may include factors such as available manufacturing equipment, material compatibility requirements, environmental regulations, cost limitations, and performance specifications that must be satisfied during the optimization process. In some cases, the constraints 628 may be prioritized based on their relative importance to the specific application, with safety- related constraints receiving higher priority than cost-related constraints in applications such as aerospace components and / or critical automotive systems. The constraints 628 may he updated dynamically based on changing operational conditions, equipment availability, and / or regulatory requirements that affect manufacturing processes and product specifications. The constraints 628 may be validated through testing and analysis procedures that verify their accuracy and relevance to the specific manufacturing environment and application requirements.

[0095] Parameters 632 may be evaluated within the process 600 to identify optimal values and ranges for manufacturing variables that affect the performance and integration of the resonators 106 within elastomeric materials. The parameters 632 may include factors such asLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO processing temperatures, pressure conditions, material concentrations, curing times, and activation energy levels that influence the electromagnetic properties and mechanical characteristics of embedded sensing elements. In some cases, the parameters 632 may be interdependent, requiring simultaneous optimization to achieve desired performance characteristics while satisfying the constraints 628 imposed by manufacturing capabilities and application requirements. The parameters 632 may be characterized through experimental testing, computational modeling, and / or statistical analysis techniques that establish relationships between parameter values and resulting material properties. The parameters 632 may be adjusted iteratively based on feedback from quality control testing, performance validation, and / or operational experience to continuously improve manufacturing processes and product performance.

[0096] A step 634 may be implemented within the process 600 to order constraints based on their relative importance and impact on manufacturing decisions and product performance characteristics. The step 634 may utilize ranking algorithms that evaluate each constraint within the constraints 628 based on factors such as safety implications, regulatory requirements, cost impact, and technical feasibility to establish priority levels for decision-making processes.

[0097] The step 634 may operate through iterative evaluation processes that systematically assess each constraint within the constraints 628 to identify the most dominant factors affecting manufacturing decisions and product performance. In some cases, the step 634 may incorporate sensitivity analysis procedures that evaluate how changes in constraint priorities affect optimal parameter selections and manufacturing outcomes.

[0098] Ordered constraints 635 may represent the prioritized list of manufacturing and operational limitations that have been systematically arranged according to their relative importance and impact on the implementation of carbon-containing structures within elastomeric materials. The ordered constraints 635 may include available equipment 644 which encompasses the existing manufacturing infrastructure and processing capabilities at the production facility, equipment truck tires 646 which represents specialized machinery and tooling required for commercial vehicle tire applications with their unique size and performance requirements, chemical pretreatment 648 which addresses the need for surface modification and bonding enhancement processes that may or may not be required depending on the specific carbon integration approach, and groove sensors 650 which specifies the constraint that sensors must be positioned exclusively under groove regions of tire tread patterns rather than under tread blocks to optimize sensing performance and avoid interference with contact patch dynamics.

[0099] In various embodiments, the ordered constraints 635 may be dynamically updated based on changing operational conditions, equipment availability, regulatory requirements, and application-specific needs, with each constraint being evaluated and ranked according to its impactLYTIP107P / LYTEP291WO on manufacturing feasibility, cost implications, performance outcomes, and technical compatibility with the selected carbon-containing structures and processing methods.

[0100] A step 636 may be executed within the process 600 to relate the parameters 632 to the ordered constraints 635, creating systematic relationships that guide parameter selection and optimization decisions. The step 636 may utilize mapping algorithms that identify how specific parameter values and ranges affect the satisfaction of individual constraints within the constraints 628, enabling informed decision-making about parameter selection and trade-offs.

[0101] In some cases, the step 636 may incorporate mathematical modeling techniques that quantify the relationships between the parameters 632 and constraint satisfaction levels, providing objective measures for optimization processes. Additionally, the step 636 may utilize machine learning algorithms that analyze historical manufacturing data to identify patterns and relationships between parameter settings and constraint satisfaction outcomes. In some cases, the step 636 may incorporate simulation capabilities that predict how different parameter combinations will affect constraint satisfaction before implementing changes in actual manufacturing processes.

[0102] A step 638 may be performed within the process 600 to select parameter values and / or ranges that satisfy one or more of the constraints 628 while optimizing manufacturing performance and product characteristics. For example, the step 638 may execute through systematic evaluation processes that test different parameter combinations against the constraints 628 to identify feasible solutions that meet all mandatory requirements while optimizing performance characteristics.

[0103] Feasible parameters 640 may be generated through the process 600 as output from the step 638, representing parameter values and ranges that satisfy the constraints 628 while providing acceptable performance characteristics for the intended application. The feasible parameters 640 may include specifications for manufacturing variables such as processing temperatures, pressure conditions, material concentrations, activation energy levels, and timing parameters that enable successful integration of the resonators 106 within elastomeric materials. In some cases, the feasible parameters 640 may be presented as ranges rather than specific values to accommodate manufacturing variability and provide flexibility for process control systems. The feasible parameters 640 may be validated through experimental testing and simulation studies that verify their effectiveness in producing components with desired sensing performance and mechanical properties. The feasible parameters 640 may be documented with associated confidence levels and uncertainty estimates that indicate the reliability of the optimization results and guide implementation decisions.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0104] The feasible parameters 640 may be organized into different categories based on their application to specific manufacturing processes, material types, and / or product configurations to facilitate implementation and process control activities. The feasible parameters 640 may include alternative parameter sets that provide similar performance characteristics, allowing manufacturing personnel to select options based on equipment availability, material supply conditions, and / or operational preferences. In some cases, the feasible parameters 640 may be ranked based on their expected performance outcomes, cost implications, and / or implementation complexity to guide selection processes when multiple feasible options are available. The feasible parameters 640 may be integrated with manufacturing execution systems that automatically configure processing equipment and control systems based on selected parameter values.

[0105] A step 642 may be implemented within the process 600 to select final parameter values from the feasible parameters 640 based on additional considerations such as equipment availability, material supply conditions, and operational preferences that affect manufacturing implementation. The step 642 may execute through evaluation processes that consider both technical and business factors when selecting final parameter values from the feasible parameters 640, ensuring that chosen parameters are both technically sound and practically implementable.

[0106] Taking a step back, and still within the context of FIG. 6, a set of constraints may be identified and implemented (per step 628), which may be critical to the application. For each constraint, the most dominant constraint is identified and then ordered as a priority (per step 634 and the ordered constraints 635). A for loop or iterative process is employed to run through each constraint in sequence, ensuring that all relevant constraints are considered before proceeding. Once the iterative process or for loop for the constraints is completed, the process moves to the next phase, which focuses on the parameters that are relevant to the chosen method of implementation (per step 636 and the parameters 632). For each set of parameters, another iterative process (for loop) is applied, wherein the parameters are related to the previously ordered constraints. For example, if the given method chosen involves using a plasma spray torch due to outside factors, the relevant parameters must align with the constraints of the invention to ensure compliance and functionality.

[0107] In the next step (per step 638), a parameter value or range is selected that satisfies one or more of the constraints. This process helps to narrow down a set of feasible parameter values or ranges that can be applied. The for-loop iteration of parameters continues until all possible values or ranges have been considered and evaluated. Once a set of feasible parameter values or ranges has been established, the next step (per step 642) is to select a final set of parameter values or ranges. For example, the choice might be to use an inert gas such as neon for the plasma spray torch because it is available within a feasible delivery distance, such as beingLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO stocked at a nearby train depot. The decision-making process is then adjusted based on practical considerations, and the method is finalized.

[0108] As such, the process 600 provides a structured approach to determining the optimal method for implementing carbon-containing structures, ensuring that all relevant constraints and parameters are accounted for and aligned with the requirements of the invention.

[0109] Table 1: Manufacturing Parameters provides an illustrative example of the potential parameter optimizations used in the decision-making process described in FIG. 6. This table outlines representative values for various elements of the elastomeric material manufacturing process, particularly regarding implementing carbon-containing structures for sensor systems. The specific parameters depend on the manufacturing company's constraints, such as the available equipment at the site, the equipment for truck tires, the use of any chemical pre-treatment, and whether the sensor will be placed solely under the groove, among other factors. These are merely just a few of the many constraints that may be considered. One of ordinary skill in the art would be familiar with the available machinery and the specific ribbon size they are working with. For instance, if a company relies on a plasma spray torch to pattern carbon-containing structures, they will know that the ribbon must be embedded at least 5 microns deep to meet the required specifications.Table 1: Manufacturing ParametersLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0110] Tables 2-6 below codify many illustrative embodiments including exemplary embodiments that are optimized against a particular optimization variable. It shall be understood that, according to various implementations, the presently disclosed inventive concepts may optimize for one or more variables in any suitable combination that would be appreciated as suitable by a skilled artisan reviewing the instant descriptions. For example, in select approaches optimization of variables shall be understood as including but not being limited to optimizing for cost, for suitability in particular application(s) (such as sensors particularly suitable for use in, with, or as tires or tracks for various types of vehicles, in, with, or as antennas, in, with, or as interrogators, etc. as would be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosures), for sensor depth, for sensor position or placement (e.g., to ensure sensors are fully under a groove resonator, etc. as would be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present descriptions), or any combination thereof. While Tables 2-6 below each set forth illustrative parameters suitable for optimizing a particular variable, it shall be appreciated that according to myriad embodiments, the presently disclosed inventive concepts may implement different combinations of parameters to optimize for combinations of variables, in any manner thatLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO a skilled artisan reading these descriptions would understand as suitable, e.g., for a particular application.

[0111] Moreover, while Tables 2-6 below each set forth illustrative parameters for optimizing a particular variable, it shall be understood that according to various illustrative embodiments the presently disclosed inventive concepts may include, implement, utilize, etc. additional and / or alternative parameters than those expressly set forth in Tables 2-6. For instance, and without limitation, the exemplary embodiments set forth in Tables 2-6 may additionally or alternatively include, implement, utilize, etc. any combination of manufacturing parameters described hereinabove with reference to Table 1. Accordingly, skilled artisans reading the present disclosure will understand that the exemplary embodiments depicted in Tables 2-6 may implement parameters regarding elements(s) of construct(s) used as substrate(s) for sensors, depth of sensor placement, sensor thickness, vehicle type (and correspondingly, type of mechanism used for locomotion, such as tires, treads, tracks, etc.), number of sensors or resonators per locomotive mechanism (e.g., per tire, per tread, per track, etc.), number of distinct sensor or resonator designs or configurations per locomotive mechanism (e.g., per tire, per tread, per track, etc.), particular resonator type, resonator lateral placement, resonator orientation, resonator placement relative to tread block, number of layers in a resonator structure, inclusion and / or type of ink additives, use of and type of pretreatment (particularly of substrate surface(s)), antenna or interrogator placement or position, etc., or any combination thereof, without departing from the scope of the inventive concepts presented herein.Table 2: Exemplary Parameters for Illustrative Cost OptimizationLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0112] As demonstrated according to various exemplary embodiments shown in Table 2, the presently disclosed inventive concepts include implementations configured to optimize cost. Embodiments optimized for cost may, without limitation, consider parameters such as the number of resonators included in the part or component, pretreatment of substrate surface(s), and type of resonator. However, it shall be understood that other parameters, including but not limited to any parameters described herein and suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosure, may be considered in the context of optimizing cost, without departing from the scope of the presently described inventive concepts. Similarly, embodiments optimized for cost may omit consideration of any of the parameters shown in Table 2, or may consider alternative parameters than shown in Table 2, while remaining within the scope of the inventive concepts presented herein.

[0113] In preferred approaches, embodiments optimized for cost may include a number of resonators in a range from about 1 to about 20 resonators, or any number of resonators within this range, such as 1 resonator, 2 resonators, 3 resonators, 4 resonators, 5 resonators, 6 resonators, 7 resonators, 8 resonators, 9 resonators, 10 resonators, 11 resonators, 12 resonators, 13 resonators, 14 resonators, 15 resonators, 16 resonators, 17 resonators, 18 resonators, 19 resonators, or 20 resonators. Of course, in additional or alternative implementations, cost optimized embodiments of the presently described inventive concepts may include any number of resonators ranging from about 1 resonator to about 100 resonators, or any number therebetween, such as 1 resonator, 2 resonators, 3 resonators, 5 resonators, 7 resonators, 10 resonators, 12 resonators, 15 resonators, 20 resonators, 22 resonators, 25 resonators, 30 resonators, 33 resonators, 35 resonators, 40 resonators, 45 resonators, 50 resonators, 55 resonators, 60 resonators, 66 resonators, 70 resonators, 75 resonators, 80 resonators, 85 resonators, 90 resonators, 95 resonators, 98 resonators, 99 resonators,LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO100 resonators, or any number of resonators from about 1 to about 100, even if not expressly listed above.

[0114] Moreover, and again according to preferred implementations, embodiments optimized for cost may include pretreatment of substate surface(s) as part of the fabrication process therefor. Substrate pretreatment may be applied to any one or more surface(s) of the substrate, e.g. according to a predefined pattern, More preferably, such pretreatment includes but is not limited to utilizing plasma treatment techniques, including any plasma treatment technique described herein, and / or suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by skilled artisans upon reading the present disclosure. For instance, in various approaches alternative or additional substrate treatment techniques may include any combination of plasma treatment, chemical treatment, physical treatment, flame treatment, etc. as described herein, and suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by skilled artisans upon full review of the present disclosure. In still further embodiments, cost optimized implementations may omit substrate pretreatment.

[0115] Further still, aspects of cost optimization may include consideration of the type or configuration of resonator(s) to be utilized. According to preferred implementations, cost optimized embodiments include bar resonators, although it shall be understood that other resonator types may be utilized, in addition to bar resonators, or instead of bar resonators, all without departing from the scope of the inventive concepts described herein. For example, in various approaches additional or alternative resonator types may include split ring resonators, dispersed resonators, agglomerated resonators (e.g., combinations of resonators of a first type and resonators of a second type, and optionally including resonators of additional, e.g. third, fourth, fifth, etc. types), or any combination thereof, without departing from the scope of the presently described inventive concepts.Table 3: Exemplary Parameters for Optimizing Truck TiresLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0116] As demonstrated according to various exemplary embodiments shown in Table 3, the presently disclosed inventive concepts include implementations configured for optimal use as tires, such as truck tires (though it shall be understood that optimization for use as other locomotive mechanisms such as passenger car tires, formula one racing tires, forklift tires, tracks, treads, etc. may be included in additional or alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the presently described inventive concepts). Embodiments optimized for use as truck tires may, without limitation, consider parameters such as the ink additive(s) that may be included in the tire, e.g., to facilitate binding of the resonator(s) present therein to other materials of the tire; placement of the antenna(s) and / or interrogator(s) on or in the tire, such as on the axle, or in the wheel itself (although other placements may be considered, such as in the rim of the tire, in the wheel wall, integrated into the tire, etc. as described herein, and suitable alternatives that would be understood by those having ordinary sill in the art upon reading the present disclosure); and pretreatment of substrate surface(s), using techniques such as plasma treatment and / or chemical treatment.

[0117] However, it shall be understood that other parameters, including but not limited to any parameters described herein and suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosure, may be considered in the context of optimizing truck tires, without departing from the scope of the presently described inventive concepts. Similarly, embodiments optimized for use as truck tires may omit consideration of any of the parameters shown in Table 3, or may consider alternative parameters than shown in Table 3, while remaining within the scope of the inventive concepts presented herein.

[0118] In preferred approaches, embodiments optimized for use as truck tires may consider parameters such as inclusion of one or more additives in a precursor ink formulation used to fabricate the tires. More preferably, the ink additive(s) facilitate binding of resonators to other components or materials of the tire, such as binding to polymeric components of the tire, to metallic or ceramic components such as the wheel well, rim, or axle of the tire, etc. as would be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosure. In particularly preferred implementations, suitable ink additives include self-curing additives and / or activated additives. Of course, it shall be appreciated that other implementations may include additional or alternative ink additives to those listed in Table 3, or may omit some or all of the ink additives listed in Table 3.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0119] Furthermore, aspects of optimization of materials including resonators for use as truck tires may include consideration of the placement or positioning of antenna(s) and / or interrogator(s) on or in the tire and / or vehicle. According to preferred implementations, embodiments optimized for use as truck tires include antenna(s) and / or interrogator(s) on the axle of the tire, and / or in the wheel itself, although it shall be understood that other placements or positions may be utilized, in addition to or instead of on the axle or in the wheel itself, all without departing from the scope of the inventive concepts described herein. For example, in various approaches additional or alternative placements may include in the rim, integrated into the tire, in the wheel well, or any combination thereof, without departing from the scope of the presently described inventive concepts.

[0120] Moreover, and again according to preferred implementations, embodiments optimized for use as truck tires may include pretreatment of substate surface(s) as part of the fabrication process therefor. Substrate pretreatment may be applied to any one or more surface(s) of the substrate, e.g. according to a predefined pattern, More preferably, such pretreatment includes but is not limited to utilizing plasma treatment techniques and / or chemical treatment techniques, including any chemical and / or plasma treatment technique described herein, or suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by skilled artisans upon reading the present disclosure. For instance, in various approaches alternative or additional substrate treatment techniques may include any combination of plasma treatment, chemical treatment, physical treatment, flame treatment, etc. as described herein, and suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by skilled artisans upon full review of the present disclosure. In still further embodiments, implementations optimized for use as truck tires may omit substrate pretreatment.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOTable 4: Exemplary Parameters for Optimizing Sensor DepthLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOTable 5: Exemplary Parameters for Optimizing Placement of Antennas or InterrogatorsLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0121] As demonstrated according to various exemplary embodiments shown in Table 5, the presently disclosed inventive concepts include implementations configured to optimize placement of antenna(s) or interrogator(s). Embodiments optimized for placement of antenna(s) or interrogator(s)may, without limitation, consider parameters such as the number of resonators included in the part or component, pretreatment of substrate surface(s), and type of resonator. However, it shall be understood that other parameters, including but not limited to any parameters described herein and suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosure, may be considered in the context of optimizing placement of antenna(s) or interrogator(s), without departing from the scope of the presently described inventive concepts. Similarly, embodiments optimized for placement of antenna(s) or interrogator(s) may omit consideration of any of the parameters shown in Table 5, or may consider alternative parameters than shown in Table 5, while remaining within the scope of the inventive concepts presented herein.

[0122] In preferred approaches, embodiments optimized for placement of antenna(s) or interrogators ) may include a number of resonators in a range from about 1 to about 20 resonators, or any number of resonators within this range, such as 1 resonator, 2 resonators, 3 resonators, 4 resonators, 5 resonators, 6 resonators, 7 resonators, 8 resonators, 9 resonators, 10 resonators, 11 resonators, 12 resonators, 13 resonators, 14 resonators, 15 resonators, 16 resonators, 17 resonators, 18 resonators, 19 resonators, or 20 resonators. Of course, in additional or alternative implementations, cost optimized embodiments of the presently described inventive concepts mayLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO include any number of resonators ranging from about 1 resonator to about 100 resonators, or any number therebetween, such as 1 resonator, 2 resonators, 3 resonators, 5 resonators, 7 resonators, 10 resonators, 12 resonators, 15 resonators, 20 resonators, 22 resonators, 25 resonators, 30 resonators, 33 resonators, 35 resonators, 40 resonators, 45 resonators, 50 resonators, 55 resonators, 60 resonators, 66 resonators, 70 resonators, 75 resonators, 80 resonators, 85 resonators, 90 resonators, 95 resonators, 98 resonators, 99 resonators, 100 resonators, or any number of resonators from about 1 to about 100, even if not expressly listed above.

[0123] Moreover, and again according to preferred implementations, embodiments optimized for placement of antenna(s) or interrogator(s) may include pretreatment of substate surface(s) as part of the fabrication process therefor. Substrate pretreatment may be applied to any one or more surface(s) of the substrate, e.g. according to a predefined pattern, More preferably, such pretreatment includes but is not limited to utilizing plasma treatment techniques, including any plasma treatment technique described herein, and / or suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by skilled artisans upon reading the present disclosure. For instance, in various approaches alternative or additional substrate treatment techniques may include any combination of plasma treatment, chemical treatment, physical treatment, flame treatment, etc. as described herein, and suitable equivalents thereof that would be appreciated by skilled artisans upon full review of the present disclosure. In still further embodiments, cost optimized implementations may omit substrate pretreatment.

[0124] Further still, aspects optimized for placement of antenna(s) or interrogator(s) may include consideration of the type or configuration of resonator(s) to be utilized. According to preferred implementations, embodiments optimized for placement of antenna(s) or interrogator(s) embodiments include bar resonators, although it shall be understood that other resonator types may be utilized, in addition to bar resonators, or instead of bar resonators, all without departing from the scope of the inventive concepts described herein. For example, in various approaches additional or alternative resonator types may include split ring resonators, dispersed resonators, agglomerated resonators (e.g., combinations of resonators of a first type and resonators of a second type, and optionally including resonators of additional, e.g. third, fourth, fifth, etc. types), or any combination thereof, without departing from the scope of the presently described inventive concepts.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOTable 6: Exemplary Parameters for Placement of Sensors Fully Under GroovesLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0125] As shown in Table 6 above, select implementations of the presently disclosed inventive concepts may be optimized for placement of sensors fully under grooves, e.g., of tires, treads, tracks, etc. as would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosure. According to preferred approaches, optimization for placement of sensors fully under grooves may take into consideration parameters including but not limited to the number of sensor layers, and / or the depth of sensors. Of course, it shall be understood that according to additional and / or alternative embodiments, optimization for placement of sensors fully under grooves may consider additional or alternative parameters, and / or may omit consideration of sensor depth and / or number of sensor layers, without departing from the scope of the inventive concepts presented herein. For example, placement of sensors may take into consideration parameters that derive from or refer to sensor layers in turn may derive from or refer to a sensing laminate including alternating layers of carbon-containing structures (e.g., carbon-containing resins) and carbon fiber layers. As further examples, optimization for placement of sensors and / or any aspects thereto may include consideration of parameters that define or derive from designLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO choices as resonator type, resonator lateral placement, resonator orientation, resonator placement relative to grooves or tread blocks, substrate surface pretreatment, etc. as described herein, or any combination thereof, as would be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present descriptions.

[0126] Broadly speaking, and again according to preferred approaches for optimizing placement of sensors fully under grooves, sensors may be placed to a depth anywhere in a range from about 21mm deep to about 50mm deep, or any value therebetween, such as about 21mm, about 22mm, about 22.5mm, about 23mm, about 24mm, about 25mm, about 26mm, about 27mm, about 28 mm, about, 29mm, about 30mm, about 31mm, about 32mm, about 33mm, about 33.3mm, about 34mm, about 35mm, about 36mm, about 37mm, about 37.5mm, about 38mm, about 39mm, about 40mm, about 41mm, about 42mm, about 42.5mm, about 43mm, about 44mm, about 45mm, about 46mm, about 47mm, about 47.5mm, about 48mm, about 49mm, about 50mm, or any value(s) therebetween. Of course, it shall be understood that individual sensors may be placed to different depths within a given component, creating a profile or distribution of sensors at various depths generally within the broad range of about 21 mm to about 50mm.

[0127] Moreover, while sensor depth is preferably in the range from about 21mm to about 50mm, skilled artisans will appreciate upon reading the instant disclosure that according to alternative embodiments sensors may be placed at depths anywhere in a range from about 1.0mm to about 100mm, such as about 1mm, about 3mm, about 5mm, about 6.66mm, about 7.5mm, about10mm, about 12.5mm, about 15mm, about 16.6mm, about 17.5mm, about 20mm, about 22.5mm, about 25mm, about 30mm, about 33.3mm, about 35mm, about 40mm, about 50mm, about66.6mm, about 75mm, about 80mm, about 90mm, about 95mm, about 97.5mm, about 98mm, about 99mm, about 100mm, or any value therebetween, even if not expressly stated hereinabove.

[0128] With continuing reference to preferred implementations optimized for placement of sensors fully under grooves, tire, tread, track, etc. constructions may include any number of sensor layers generally ranging from about 1 sensor layer to about 100 sensor layers, more preferably from about 6 sensor layers to about 100 sensor layers. For instance, in various approaches, a given tire, tread, track, etc. construction may include about 1 sensor layer, about 2 sensor layers, about 3 sensor layers, about 5 sensor layers, about 6 sensor layers, about 7 sensor layers, about 9 sensor layers, about 10 sensor layers, about 12 sensor layers, about 15 sensor layers about 17 sensor layers, about 20 sensor layers, about 25 sensor layers, about 30 sensor layers, about 33 sensor layers, about 35 sensor layers, about 40 sensor layers, about 45 sensor layers, about 48 sensor layers, about 50 sensor layers, about 55 sensor layers, about 60 sensor layers, about 66 sensor layers, about 70 sensor layers, about 75 sensor layers, about 80 sensor layers, about 85 sensor layers, about 90 sensor layers, about 95 sensor layers, about 98 sensor layers,LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO about 99 sensor layers, about 100 sensor layers, or any number of sensor layers therebetween, even if not expressly stated hereinabove.

[0129] Again, Tables 2-6 codify many illustrative embodiments including exemplary embodiments that are optimized against a particular optimization variable. It shall be understood that, according to various implementations, the presently disclosed inventive concepts may optimize for one or more variables in any suitable combination that would be appreciated as suitable by a skilled artisan reviewing the instant descriptions. For example, in select approaches optimization of variables shall be understood as including but not being limited to optimizing for cost, for suitability in particular application(s) (such as sensors particularly suitable for use in, with, or as tires or tracks for various types of vehicles, in, with, or as antennas, in, with, or as interrogators, etc. as would be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present disclosures), for sensor depth, for sensor position or placement (e.g., to ensure sensors are fully under a groove resonator, etc. as would be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art upon reading the present descriptions), or any combination thereof. While Tables 2-6 below each set forth illustrative parameters suitable for optimizing a particular variable, it shall be appreciated that according to myriad embodiments, the presently disclosed inventive concepts may implement different combinations of parameters to optimize for combinations of variables, in any manner that a skilled artisan reading these descriptions would understand as suitable, e.g., for a particular application.

[0130] Moreover, while Tables 2-6 set forth illustrative parameters for optimizing a particular variable, it shall be understood that according to various illustrative embodiments the presently disclosed inventive concepts may include, implement, utilize, etc. additional and / or alternative parameters than those expressly set forth in Tables 2-6. For instance, and without limitation, the exemplary embodiments set forth in Tables 2-6 may additionally or alternatively include, implement, utilize, etc. any combination of manufacturing parameters described hereinabove with reference to Table 1. Accordingly, skilled artisans reading the present disclosure will understand that the exemplary embodiments depicted in Tables 2-6 may implement parameters regarding elements(s) of construct(s) used as substrate(s) for sensors, depth of sensor placement, sensor thickness, vehicle type (and correspondingly, type of mechanism used for locomotion, such as tires, treads, tracks, etc.), number of sensors or resonators per locomotive mechanism (e.g., per tire, per tread, per track, etc.), number of distinct sensor or resonator designs or configurations per locomotive mechanism (e.g., per tire, per tread, per track, etc.), particular resonator type, resonator lateral placement, resonator orientation, resonator placement relative to tread block, number of layers in a resonator structure, inclusion and / or type of ink additives, use of and type of pretreatment (particularly of substrate surface(s)), antenna or interrogator placementLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO or position, etc., or any combination thereof, without departing from the scope of the inventive concepts presented herein.

[0131] FIG. 7 depicts a schematic diagram 700 of an apparatus used for tuning multiple plies of a tire by selecting carbon-containing tuned RF resonance materials from separate and independent reactors for incorporation into the body of a single tire assembly, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the schematic diagram 700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figure(s) and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the schematic diagram 700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0132] The schematic diagram 700 may be used for fine-adjustment, or tuning, of multiple body plies and / or tread layers of a tire by selecting carbon-containing tuned resonance materials for incorporation into a tire assembly or structure, which can be implemented in any environment. FIG. 7 illustrates how to mix different carbons into tire composite formulations that are in turn assembled into a multi-ply tire. The resulting multi-ply tire exhibits the various resonancesensitive and frequency-shifting characteristics.

[0133] Multiple reactors (such as, reactor 752-1, reactor 752-2, reactor 752-3, and reactor 752-4) each produce (or otherwise transport or provide) a particular carbon additive / filler to the network that is tuned to yield a particular defined spectral profile. The carbon additives (such as, first tuned carbons 754, second tuned carbons 756, third tuned carbons 758, and fourth tuned carbons 760) can mixed with other (carbon-based or non-carbon based) compositions 750. Any known techniques can be used to mix, heat, pre-process, post-process or otherwise combine the particular carbon additives with the other compositions. Mixers (such as, mixer 762-1, mixer 762- 2, mixer 762-3, and mixer 762-4) are presented to show how different tuned carbons can be introduced into various components of a tire. Other techniques for tire assembly may involve other construction techniques and / or other components that comprise the tire. Any known techniques for multi-ply tires can be used. Moreover, the spectral profile of a particular body ply and / or tread layer (such as a group of body plies and / or tread layers 768, including a body ply and / or tread layer 768-1, a body ply and / or tread layer 768-2, a body ply and / or tread layer 768-3, and a body ply and / or tread layer 768-4) can be determined based on the characterization of a particular body ply and / or tread layer formulation. For example, based on a stimulus and response characterization, a first body ply and / or tread layer formulation (such as, body ply and / or tread layer formulation 764- 1) might exhibit a first spectral profile, whereas a second body ply and / or tread layer formulation (such as, body ply and / or tread layer formulation 764-2) might exhibit a second spectral profile.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0134] The resulting different formulations (such as, body ply and / or tread layer formulation 764-1, body ply and / or tread layer formulation 764-2, body ply and / or tread layer formulation 764-3, and body ply and / or tread layer formulation 764-4), each of which body ply and / or tread layer exhibits a corresponding spectra profile, are used in the different body ply and / or tread layer that are formed into a tire assembly 766.

[0135] Taking a step back, the tuning apparatus 700 shows the systematic production of multi-layered tire assemblies with distinct electromagnetic sensing capabilities through the coordinated operation of multiple independent reactors that produce different tuned carbon materials with predetermined frequency characteristics. The apparatus demonstrates how separate reactor systems can simultaneously synthesize various carbon structures with unique resonance properties, which may then be processed through dedicated mixing systems to create specialized formulations that are incorporated into different tread layers of a single tire assembly, resulting in a comprehensive sensing system with multiple frequency responses and monitoring capabilities distributed throughout the tire structure. This approach may provide manufacturers with the ability to create tires with enhanced monitoring capabilities that can simultaneously detect multiple parameters such as treadwear, pressure variations, temperature changes, and structural integrity through the strategic placement of different tuned carbon formulations at various depths and locations within the tire assembly.

[0136] FIG. 8A and 8B depict a frequency-shifting phenomenon as demonstrated by a sensing laminate including carbon-containing tuned RF resonance materials, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the FIG. 8A and 8B may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figure(s) and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the FIG. 8A and 8B may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0137] The frequency-shifting phenomenon referred to above (with respect to FIG. 8A, such as transitioning from resonating at a frequency of 3 GHz to 2.95 GHz) is shown and discussed with reference to Figures 8A-8B. FIG. 8B depicts a frequency-shifting phenomenon as exhibited in a sensing laminate that includes carbon-containing tuned resonance materials.

[0138] As generally understood, atoms emit electromagnetic radiation at a natural frequency for a given element. That is, an atom of a particular element has a natural frequency that corresponds to characteristics of the atom. For example, when a Cesium atom is stimulated, a valence electron jumps from a lower energy state (such as, a ground state) to a higher energy state (such as, an excited energy state). When the electron returns to its lower energy state, it emits electromagnetic radiation in the form of a photon. For Cesium, the photon emitted is in theLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO microwave frequency range; at 9.192631770 THz. Structures that are larger than atoms, such as molecules formed of multiple atoms also resonate (such as by emitting electromagnetic radiation) at predictable frequencies. For example, liquid water in bulk resonates at 109.6 THz. Water that is in tension (such as, at the surface of bulk, in various states of surface tension) resonates at 112.6 THz. Carbon atoms and carbon structures also exhibit natural frequencies that are dependent on the structure. For example, the natural resonant frequency of a carbon nanotube (CNT) is dependent on the tube diameter and length of the CNT. Growing a CNT under controlled conditions to control the tube diameter and length leads to controlling the structure's natural resonant frequency. According, synthesizing or otherwise "growing" CNTs is one way to tune to a desired resonant frequency.

[0139] Other structures formed of carbon can be formed under controlled conditions. Such structures include but are not limited to carbon nano-onions (CNOs), carbon lattices, graphene, carbon-containing aggregates or agglomerates, graphene-based, other carbon containing materials, engineered nanoscale structures, etc. and / or combinations thereof, any one or of which being incorporated into sensors of vehicle components according to the presently disclosed implementations. Such structures can be formed to resonate at a particular tuned frequency and / or such structures can be modified in post-processing to obtain a desired characteristic or property. For example, a desired property such as a high reinforcement value can be brought about by selection and ratios of combinations of materials and / or by the addition of other materials. Moreover, co-location of multiples of such structures introduces further resonance effects. For example, two sheets of graphene may resonate between themselves at a frequency that is dependent on the length, width, spacing, shape of the spacing and / or other physical characteristics of the sheets and / or their juxtaposition to each other.

[0140] As is known in the art, materials have specific, measurable characteristics. This is true for naturally occurring materials as well as for engineered carbon allotropes. Such engineered carbon allotropes can be tuned to exhibit physical characteristics. For example, carbon allotropes can be engineered to exhibit physical characteristics corresponding to: (a) a particular configuration of constituent primary particles; (b) formation of aggregates; and (c) formation of agglomerates. Each of these physical characteristics influence the particular resonant frequencies of materials formed using corresponding particular carbon allotropes.

[0141] In addition to tuning a particular carbon-based structure for a particular physical configuration that corresponds to a particular resonant frequency, carbon-containing compounds can be tuned to a particular resonant frequency (or set of resonant frequencies). A set of resonant frequencies is termed a resonance profile.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO

[0142] FIG. 8A depicts a first carbon-containing structure that resonates at a first frequency, which can be correlated to an equivalent electrical circuit comprising a capacitor C 1 and an inductor LI. The frequency fl is given by the equation:(Eq. 1)

[0143] FIG. 8B depicts a slight deformation of the same first carbon-containing structure of FIG. 8A. The deformation causes a change to the physical structure, which in turn, changes the inductance and / or capacitance of the structure. The changes can be correlated to an equivalent electrical circuit comprising a capacitor C2 and an inductor L2. The frequency f2 may given by the equation:(Eq. 2)

[0144] It is to be appreciated that the frequency-shifting phenomenon demonstrated by split-ring resonator structures may provide fundamental sensing capabilities through measurable changes in electromagnetic resonance characteristics that correspond to physical deformation and material property variations. As illustrated in Figures 8 A and 8B, split-ring resonator structures may exhibit predictable frequency response changes when subjected to mechanical stress, strain, and / or environmental conditions that alter their geometric dimensions and electrical properties.

[0145] The frequency shift between fl and f2 may be recorded as an event signature corresponding to specific deformation conditions or mechanical states of the material containing the split-ring resonator, enabling precise detection of material conditions through analysis of resonance frequency deviations from baseline values that correspond to specific deformation patterns and operational states across various sensing applications.

[0146] FIG. 9 shows a section 900 of a vehicle surface where an array of individually configured split ring resonators are disposed, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the section 900 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figure(s) and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the section 900 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0147] As shown, the section of a vehicle surface 902 may be subjected to stresses and accompanying deformations during operation of the vehicle, and split ring resonators (split ring resonators) (shown in FIG. 9 as Fl l, F12, F13, F21, F22, F23, up and to FNN) can be used to detect possible changes within the material under such environmental stresses and deformations. The split ring resonators may be printed or applied onto the spongy material of the vehicle (e.g.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO vinyl wrap of vehicle), and / or the combination of the resonators and spongy material may be placed all over a vehicle or section of a vehicle surface of interest.

[0148] For example, the split ring resonators on the front bumper may undergo air pressure changes when the vehicle is in operation (such as, during forward motion, thus creating a downward force on this section of the vehicle). Under the forces of the air pressure, the material that composes the surface can deform slightly and, in accordance with the phenomenon described as pertains to FIG. 8 A and FIG. 8B, demonstrate a change in resonant frequency of the material proportionate to the degree of change or deformation of the material. While all the split ring resonators will be resonating simultaneously, a difference in one of the split ring resonators or multiple of split ring resonators can be determined due to a change in the pitch that can be detected by a stimulus / response comparator, such as may be implement in whole or in part by a hom / receiver or similar device.

[0149] An array or matrix of split ring resonators over the vehicle surface 902 and the constituents are configured in such a way that the frequency responses of any of the constituent members of the array do not collide with the neighboring split ring resonators.

[0150] FIG. 10 depicts a schematic diagram 1000 relating to tire information transferred via telemetry into a navigation system, as well as equipment for manufacturing printed carbonbased materials, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the schematic diagram 1000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figure(s) and / or description thereof. Of course, however, the schematic diagram 1000 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Further, the aforementioned definitions may equally apply to the description below.

[0151] As shown, the schematic diagram 1000 show a system for providing tire wear- related information transferred via telemetry into a navigation system and equipment for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials. The schematic diagram 1000 can function with any one or more of the presently disclosed systems, methods, and materials, such as the sensors including carbon-based microstructures such that a redundant description of the same is omitted. Impedance spectroscopy, also referred to as Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), refers to a method of impedimetric transduction involving the application of a sinusoidal electrochemical perturbation (potential or current) over a wide range of frequencies when measuring a sample, such as a sensor including carbon-based microstructures incorporated within one or more tire belt plies of a tire 1002. Printed carbon-based resonators 1004 can be incorporated within one or more tire components such as the tire belt plies, with each of the printed carbonbased resonators 1004 having the general oval configuration shown, or some other shape or configuration tailored to achieve specific desirable resonance properties suitable for efficient andLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO accurate vehicle component wear detection through monitoring of frequency shift and / or attenuation (such as a first response attenuation indicative of the wear of a tire body ply and / or tread layer having a natural resonance frequency of approximately 1.0 GHz).

[0152] An assembly of rollers 1010 capable of forming the printed carbon-based resonators 1004 includes a repository 1012 (such as a vat) of carbon-based microstructures and / or microstructural material (such as graphene), an anilox roller 1014 (referring to a hard cylinder, usually constructed of a steel or aluminum core which is coated by an industrial ceramic whose surface contains millions of very fine dimples, known as cells), a plate cylinder 1016, and an impression cylinder 1018. In operation, graphene extracted from the repository 1012 can be rolled, pressed, stretched, or otherwise fabricated by the rollers of the assembly of rollers 1010 into the printed carbon-based resonators 1004. No registration (referring to alignment) of the printed carbon-based resonators 1004 may be needed for functioning of the schematic diagram 1000.

[0153] As such, any combination of the aforementioned features can be used to manufacture a tire that has a resonator (referring to actual or “equivalent” tank), LC and / or resonant circuit, where carbon-containing microstructures themselves can resonate in response to emitted RF signals from a transceiver, and / or from energy supplied by an advanced energy source, such that other sensors, disposed into or onto any one or more components such as the tread, a ply or plies, an inner liner, etc. of the tire can demonstrate frequency-shifting or signal attenuation properties or behavior. The described resonator is not necessarily required to be embodied as an actual electrical and / or integrated circuit (IC). The described resonator can be realized simply as tuned carbon-containing microstructures, to thus avoid common deterioration concerns that may arise when implementing traditional discrete circuity in decomposable materials, such as tire tread layers. Such resonators can resonate in response to an externally-supplied ‘ping’ (such as that supplied by a transceiver located in the wheel well of vehicle), or the resonator can respond to being charged by a co-located (referring to within the same tire tread layer, but possibly at a different location within that tire tread layer), self-powered, self-pinging capability facilitated by any variations or any number of power or charge generators (such as thermoelectric generators, piezoelectric energy generators, triboelectric energy generators, etc.).

[0154] At any time when the tire is rolling or otherwise undergoing deformation, any of the described resonators (and other resonators and / or resonant circuits) can be configured to emit and / or further emit oscillating RF signals (or other forms of electromagnetic radiation, depending on the overall configuration). As a vehicle tire experiences wear resultant from usage (such as on or off-road driving), tire tread layers in contact with pavement or ground (earth) may experience deformation, either instantaneously or over time (such as that observed from being “squished”, referring to at least partial flattening of sections of the exposed vehicle tire tread layers duringLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO rotation or rolling, and / or from lateral motion as experienced during turning, etc.), therefore resultant signal frequency-shift and / or attenuation behavior may change pursuant to such “squishing” as associated signals can oscillate over one or more known amplitude ranges. In addition, or in the alternative, as the tire undergoes deformation, observed signals can oscillate within a known frequency range corresponding to a particular resonator, allowing for precise and accurate identification of the type of deterioration occurring while it is occurring, rather than requiring the driver, passengers, and / or other vehicle occupants to exit the vehicle, while it is stationary, to observe tire tread conditions. Such a frequency-shifting oscillation may be observable as a frequency shift back and forth between two or more frequencies within the known frequency range.

[0155] A wireless-capable strain sensor (such as a geometric measure of deformation representing the relative displacement between particles in a material body that may be caused by external constraints or loads) positioned on sides of the inner liner can monitor tire condition for automobile safety (such by detecting damaged tires). Additionally, tire deformation or strain monitoring can indirectly provide information related to the degree of friction between tires and road surface, which can then be used for the optimization of automobile tire control systems. Such tire information can be wirelessly transmitted to a receiver (and / or transceiver) positioned in the wheel hub based on a resonant sensor (such as an impedance spectroscopy, IS, sensor) platform.

[0156] Within the context of the present description, the geometric pattern functions of the resonator sensors may include, at a minimum, the listed geometric pattern(s).TABLE 7: GEOMETRIC PATTERN FUNCTIONS

[0157] In various embodiments, the geometric pattern functions may be selected and optimized based on the specific monitoring requirements and operational conditions of the intended application, with each scale designation providing distinct advantages for different sensing scenarios and frequency response characteristics. The printed patterns at macro-scale may be particularly suitable for large-area monitoring applications such as tire tread regions and structural components where lower GHz frequencies provide adequate sensitivity and penetrationLYTIP107P / LYTEP291WO depth, while agglomeration patterns at meso-scale may offer enhanced sensitivity for detecting localized material changes and deformation patterns through higher GHz frequency responses. The micro-scale juxtaposition of graphene sheets or platelets may enable precise detection of minute material property changes and surface conditions through very high GHz frequency operation, and nano-scale molecular configurations may provide ultra-sensitive monitoring capabilities in the THz frequency domain for specialized applications requiring detection of molecular-level changes and environmental interactions. The scalable nature of these geometric pattern functions may allow for the integration of multiple sensing scales within a single component to provide comprehensive monitoring coverage across different operational parameters and material conditions.

[0158] Further, any of these patterns may be applied to PMRs, split-ring resonators, and / or other carbon-based sensors, as disclosed herein.

[0159] In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific implementations thereof. It will however be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, the above-described process flows are described with reference to an ordering of process actions. However, the ordering of many of the described process actions may be changed without affecting the scope or operation of the disclosure. The specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than in a restrictive sense.

Claims

LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WOCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A tire formed of at least a body including a plurality of plies, at least one ply of the plurality of plies comprising: one or more passive resonators configured to generate respective resonant signals in response to an interrogation signal, wherein, the one or more passive resonators are distributed in one or more portions of the tire and configured to alter at least one characteristic of the resonant signal based on then- current conditions.

2. A vehicle component, comprising: at least one passive meso-, macro-, or micro-resonator (PMR) embedded within a material of the vehicle component, wherein the at least one PMR is formed from a three- dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth; wherein the at least one PMR is configured to have a resonance frequency shift in response to at least one of a reversible deformation, stress, or strain of the material.

3. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein the material is a foam-based material.

4. The vehicle component of claim 3, wherein the foam-based material amplifies the resonance frequency shift.

5. The vehicle component of claim 3, wherein the foam-based material in combination with the at least one PMR creates an ensemble frequency effect, based on a combination of the resonance frequency shift of the at least one PMR and a frequency response of the foam-based material.

6. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein the vehicle component is a land-borne vehicle or an airborne vehicle.

7. The vehicle component of claim 6, wherein the airborne vehicle is one of: a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a drone, a passenger drone, a commercial aircraft, a military aircraft, or a rocket.

8. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein the resonance frequency shift is at a first frequency in response to an electromagnetic ping when the material is in a first state, and is at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic ping when the material is in a second state.

9. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein the resonant frequency shift is based at least in part on one or more physical characteristics of the material.

10. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein a first frequency of the resonance frequency shift indicates a first condition of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic ping, and a second frequency of the resonance frequency shiftLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO indicates a second condition of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic ping.

11. The vehicle component of claim 10, wherein the first frequency is different than the second frequency.

12. The vehicle component of claim 1, wherein the resonance frequency shift is in response to the reversible deformation of the material.

13. The vehicle component of claim 12, wherein the at least one PMR is configured to indicate a first state of the reversible deformation of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic ping, and is configured to indicate a second state of the reversible deformation of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic ping.

14. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein the at least one PMR includes a resonance portion, wherein the resonance portion is configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to an electromagnetic ping when a state of the material exceeds a threshold, and is configured to resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic ping when the state of the material is beneath the threshold.

15. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein a resonant frequency of 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth is based at least in part on either or both of a permittivity and a permeability of the material.

16. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein the at least one PMR includes a plurality of first carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to an electromagnetic ping based at least in part on a concentration level of the first carbon particles within the at least one PMR.

17. The vehicle component of claim 16, further comprising: a second PMR configured to be embedded within the material of the vehicle component; wherein the second PMR includes a plurality of second carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to an electromagnetic ping based at least in part on a concentration level of the second carbon particles within the second PMR.

18. The vehicle component of claim 17, wherein each of the first carbon particles and second carbon particles is chemically bonded with the material.

19. The vehicle component of claim 17, wherein the first carbon particles include first aggregates forming a first porous structure, and the second carbon particles include second aggregates forming a second porous structure.

20. The vehicle component of claim 2, wherein an amplitude of resonance of each of the at least one PMR is indicative of an extent of wear of the material, and each PMR of the at leastLYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO one PMR has an attenuation point, wherein the attenuation point of each PMR of the at least one PMR is associated with a frequency response to an electromagnetic ping.

21. A vehicle component, comprising: at least one passive meso-, macro-, or micro-resonator (PMR) embedded within a material of the vehicle component, wherein the at least one PMR is formed from a three- dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth; wherein the at least one PMR is configured to have a resonance frequency shift in response to a change in an elastomeric property of the material, the elastomeric property including one or more of a reversible deformation, a stress, or a strain.

22. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein the material is an elastomeric material or an elastomer compound.

23. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein the resonance frequency shift is saved as an event signature.

24. The vehicle component of claim 23, wherein the event signature is calibrated to measure at least one of dynamics for rotational motion, or dynamics for non-rotational motion.

25. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein the resonance frequency shift is calibrated to measure tire stiction.

26. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein the resonance frequency shift is based on an initial calibrated frequency, and the resonance frequency shift is a deviation from the initial calibrated frequency.

27. The vehicle component of claim 26, wherein each of the initial calibrated frequency and the resonance frequency shift has a corresponding interfacial permittivity value between a tire and a driving surface, the interfacial permittivity value being correlated with a tire stictional value.

28. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein the resonance frequency shift is at a first frequency in response to an electromagnetic ping when the material is in a first state, and is at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic ping when the material is in a second state.

29. The vehicle component of claim 21 , wherein the resonant frequency shift is based at least in part on one or more physical characteristics of the material.

30. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein a first frequency of the resonance frequency shift indicates a first condition of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic ping, and a second frequency of the resonance frequency shift indicates a second condition of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic ping.LYT1P107P / LYTEP291WO31. The vehicle component of claim 30, wherein the first frequency is different than the second frequency.

32. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein the resonance frequency shift is in response to the reversible deformation of the material.

33. The vehicle component of claim 32, wherein the at least one PMR is configured to indicate a first state of the reversible deformation of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic ping, and is configured to indicate a second state of the reversible deformation of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic ping.

34. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein the at least one PMR includes a resonance portion, wherein the resonance portion is configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to an electromagnetic ping when a state of the material exceeds a threshold, and is configured to resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic ping when the state of the material is beneath the threshold.

35. The vehicle component of claim 21 , wherein a resonant frequency of 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth is based at least in part on either or both of a permittivity and a permeability of the material.

36. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein the at least one PMR includes a plurality of first carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to an electromagnetic ping based at least in part on a concentration level of the first carbon particles within the at least one PMR.

37. The vehicle component of claim 36, further comprising: a second PMR configured to be embedded within the material of the vehicle component; wherein the second PMR includes a plurality of second carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to an electromagnetic ping based at least in part on a concentration level of the second carbon particles within the second PMR.

38. The vehicle component of claim 37, wherein each of the first carbon particles and second carbon particles is chemically bonded with the material.

39. The vehicle component of claim 37, wherein the first carbon particles include first aggregates forming a first porous structure, and the second carbon particles include second aggregates forming a second porous structure.

40. The vehicle component of claim 21, wherein an amplitude of resonance of each of the at least one PMR is indicative of an extent of wear of the material, and each PMR of the at least one PMR has an attenuation point, wherein the attenuation point of each PMR of the at least one PMR is associated with a frequency response to an electromagnetic ping.

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