Auxiliary Tire Deployment System for Flat Tire Compensation
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing auxiliary tire deployment systems require drivers to pull over to change a flat tire, which can be dangerous, especially in low-light conditions or on narrow roads, as they do not automatically deploy spare tires.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes extendable auxiliary tires mounted adjacently to each vehicle wheel, connected to a tire pressure monitoring system using sensors and logic to automatically deploy a spare tire when a flat is detected, allowing continued driving without immediate roadside intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If auxiliary tires are manually deployed by pulling over to the side of the road, then drivers can replace flat tires, but driver safety is compromised in low-light conditions or on narrow roads
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting flat tires through pressure sensors and deploying auxiliary tires without requiring driver intervention. The microprocessor-controlled system autonomously monitors tire pressure, identifies flat tires, and activates the deployment mechanism, eliminating the need for drivers to manually pull over and change tires in dangerous conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tire changing with an automated electromechanical system. Pressure sensors detect flat tires and send signals to a microprocessor, which then activates electric motors or actuators to deploy auxiliary tires from storage compartments, substituting the manual mechanical process with an automated control system.
2Speed
If auxiliary tires are stored in traditional locations, then space is efficiently used, but rapid deployment to compensate for flat tires is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-positioning auxiliary tires in strategically located storage compartments adjacent to each wheel and pre-programming the deployment sequence. When a flat tire is detected, the system immediately activates the corresponding auxiliary tire deployment mechanism without requiring manual retrieval or complex assembly, enabling rapid response.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the auxiliary tire system into separate modular units, with each wheel having its own dedicated storage compartment and deployment mechanism. This segmentation allows independent deployment of individual auxiliary tires without affecting other wheels, simplifying the overall deployment process and reducing mechanical complexity.
3Reliability
If tire pressure monitoring is implemented, then flat tires are detected, but system complexity increases with additional sensors and logic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the tire pressure monitoring system. The same pressure sensors that detect flat tires also provide data for tire maintenance warnings and deployment activation. The microprocessor handles multiple tasks including pressure monitoring, flat tire detection, warning signal generation, and deployment control, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for compensating for a flat tire, including a tire deployment sub-system and a tire pressure monitoring sub-system. The tire deployment system comprises an extendable auxiliary tire mounted to the frame of the automobile that is in communication with the tire pressure monitoring system and a user interface. The tire pressure monitoring system is adapted to monitor the internal pressure of the tires of the vehicle, via either direct or indirect means, and send a notification signal to the tire deployment system when the pressure sensor detects that one of the tires of the vehicle is losing pressure. The deployed auxiliary tire provides a temporary support for the tire that has gone flat, allowing the driver to continue driving for a period of time and thereby obviating the need to immediately pull to the side of the road and change out the flat for a spare tire.