Conformal Antenna for Tire Sensor Wireless Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle tire sensors face challenges in accurately estimating vehicle dynamics due to harsh environments, limited accessibility, and the need for wireless communication through metal-rich structures, which complicates antenna design and power supply management.
Innovation Solution
A conformal antenna system shaped to adhere to the sensor node package, utilizing a folded dipole for UWB transmission and a strip monopole for narrowband reception, with a shielding sheet to mitigate interference from metallic elements, allowing for robust and efficient wireless communication within the tire environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional antennas are used in tire sensors, then wireless communication can be established, but the antenna performance deteriorates due to interference from metallic elements and the harsh tire environment
Solution Approach 1:
A conformal antenna is introduced as an intermediary element that adheres to the sensor package surface. This antenna design with high impedance (at least 50 Ohms) acts as a mediator between the electronic apparatus and the external communication environment, reducing the impact of metallic interference from the tire structure while maintaining reliable wireless communication
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna impedance parameter is specifically designed to be at least 50 Ohms, which optimizes the matching between the antenna and the transmission line while minimizing the effect of nearby metallic elements. This parameter change improves the radiation efficiency and communication reliability in the harsh tire environment
2Weight of moving object
If the sensor device is made compact to fit inside the tire, then the tire balance is maintained, but the antenna size and performance are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is designed to wrap around the sensor package in a conformal manner, transitioning from a traditional linear or planar structure to a three-dimensional surface-mounted structure. This dimensional change allows the antenna to achieve the required electrical length and radiation performance while maintaining a compact overall footprint that fits within the limited space inside the tire
3Reliability
If shielding measures are added to reduce metallic interference, then communication reliability improves, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By optimizing the antenna impedance parameter to be at least 50 Ohms and designing the conformal structure, the system achieves effective shielding against metallic interference without requiring additional active shielding components. This passive parameter-based solution reduces power consumption while maintaining communication reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device adapted to be associated with a vehicle wheel includes a package enclosing at least one sensor and an electronic data processing apparatus and at least one antenna arranged on the package for at least one among the wireless transmission of data generated by the electronic apparatus and the wireless reception of data to be provided to the electronic apparatus. The at least one antenna is shaped to adhere to surfaces of the package.