Load-Based Tire Pressure Regulation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tire inflation systems cannot adjust tire pressure based on the varying load of a truck or trailer, leading to overinflation when the load is reduced and underinflation when it is increased, with no known system capable of controlling tire pressure in real-time according to the load at any given time.
Innovation Solution
A load-based tire pressure regulation system using a pressure regulator assembly that adjusts tire pressure by feeding or bleeding air from the tire based on the load, utilizing an air spring and a control unit with pressure transducers to maintain optimal pressure according to the load, with equations determining the required pressure adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tire pressure is maintained at target inflation pressure for maximum load, then tire performance is satisfactory when carrying maximum load, but tire becomes overinflated when load is reduced or trailer is empty
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts tire pressure based on the actual load carried by the trailer. The pressure regulator assembly continuously monitors load conditions and modifies tire pressure in real-time, transitioning from a static fixed-pressure system to a dynamic adaptive system that optimizes pressure according to current operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameter of tire pressure according to load variations. By adjusting the pressure parameter dynamically - increasing pressure when load increases and decreasing pressure when load decreases - the system optimizes tire performance for each specific loading condition rather than maintaining a constant pressure setting.
2Reliability
If tire pressure is maintained at target inflation pressure, then tire performance is satisfactory when carrying maximum load, but tire becomes underinflated when load is increased beyond target
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous dynamic pressure adjustment capability, allowing tire pressure to be increased or decreased as needed based on actual load conditions. This dynamic control enables the system to handle loads both above and below the target inflation pressure scenario, optimizing performance across the full range of possible loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extends the adjustable pressure parameter range beyond the traditional target inflation pressure. By enabling pressure increases for overloaded conditions and pressure decreases for lightly loaded conditions, the system creates a broader operational envelope for tire pressure optimization.
3Reliability
If conventional tire inflation systems are used, then target inflation pressure can be maintained, but system cannot adjust tire pressure based on varying load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback control mechanism where the actual load on the trailer is continuously monitored and used to adjust tire pressure accordingly. The pressure regulator assembly receives feedback about load conditions and automatically modifies pressure settings to maintain optimal tire inflation, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the tire inflation system to automatically regulate its own pressure based on detected load conditions without requiring external intervention. The pressure regulator assembly autonomously adjusts pressure up or down according to the actual load, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for manual pressure adjustments by operators.
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
The system ensures the tire pressure remains optimal for the load, improving tire performance and efficiency by automatically adjusting to maintain recommended pressure levels as the load changes, enhancing the operational stability and fuel efficiency of trucks and trailers.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure regulator assembly receiving air at pressure PAS and air at the pressure of at least one tire of a truck or trailer, and configured to feed air to and bleed air from the at least one tire
Data Source
AI summary
A load based tire pressure regulation system for trucks or trailers employing an air spring maintained at a variable pressure PAS depending upon the load on the truck or trailer, includes an air pilot pressure regulator receiving air at pressure PAS and air at the pressure of at least one tire of a truck or trailer, and configured to feed air to and bleed air from the at least one tire of the truck or trailer as a function of the load on the truck or trailer. The pressure regulator is configured to feed air to and bleed air from the at least one tire of the truck or trailer based upon the pressure of the air spring PAS as a function of the load on the air spring (FAS), and further upon the recommended pressure PT of the at least one tire as a function of the load on the tire (FT).