Antenna Junction Transition Layer for Tyre Electronic Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
The junction between the free and fixing parts of the antenna in electronic devices embedded in tyres is prone to breakage due to deformation stresses, and existing solutions either incur high costs or compromise radio frequency performance.
Innovation Solution
A transition layer with a composition of 9 to 13 parts of sulphur per hundred parts of elastomer is applied to the junction, creating a gradient of modulus of elasticity between the rigid antenna and flexible rubber, allowing sulphur migration during vulcanization to match deformation characteristics and maintain galvanic contact for improved radio frequency performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the antenna junction is rigidly fixed to reduce breakage risk, then mechanical strength is improved, but deformation compatibility with rubber deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a transition layer with specific material properties (modulus of elasticity between 10 and 50 MPa) locally at the antenna junction area. This creates a gradient structure where the junction area has different mechanical properties than the surrounding rubber, providing both strength and deformation compatibility in the critical zone while maintaining overall system integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transition layer is formed as a composite material structure comprising the antenna fixing part, the transition layer itself, and the surrounding rubber. This composite structure allows each layer to contribute its specific properties: the antenna provides electrical function, the transition layer provides mechanical transition, and the rubber provides flexibility and sealing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple layers with different modulus of elasticity are applied to create a gradient, then deformation compatibility is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of creating a modulus gradient from the complex multi-layer structure and implements it through a single transition layer with specifically controlled material properties. Instead of requiring multiple layers with different moduli, the invention achieves the gradient effect through one layer whose modulus (10-50 MPa) is specifically selected to bridge the gap between rigid antenna and flexible rubber.
3Adaptability or versatility
If capacitive fixing is used instead of soldered fixing, then mechanical flexibility is improved, but radio frequency performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transition layer acts as an intermediary between the antenna junction and the surrounding rubber. It provides the mechanical flexibility needed for deformation compatibility while maintaining the galvanic contact necessary for radio frequency operation. The layer's specific modulus (10-50 MPa) allows it to mediate between the rigid antenna and flexible rubber without compromising electrical connection.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces the risk of junction breakage while maintaining radio frequency performance by creating a continuous transition in stiffness, avoiding the drawbacks of multiple layers and capacitive fixing, and ensuring consistent radio frequency operation over time.
Implementation Method 1
the sulphur migrates into the adjacent rubber, which generally has a lower sulphur content than the rubber of the transition layer. Thus a gradient of the modulus of elasticity is created between the rigid area and the flexible area
Implementation Method 2
The sulphur enables the rubber to pass from its plastic state to its elastic state during vulcanization
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic assembly, which is intended for installation in a tire, includes an electronic device and a transition layer. The electronic device includes an electronic member and at least one antenna fixed to a support of the electronic member. Each antenna includes a free part, which is free with respect to the support, joined to a fixing part, which fixes the antenna to the support. The transition layer is formed of a composition that includes 9 to 13 parts of sulfur per hundred parts by weight of elastomer. The transition layer coats at least a junction between the free part and the fixing part of each antenna.