Passive RF Tire Sensor Powered by Wireless Energy Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire sensor and reader systems are expensive, limited in configuration, lack standardized communication protocols, and rely on batteries, which restrict their functionality and lifespan in harsh tire environments.
Innovation Solution
An integrated tire sensor and reader system using passive RF communication, where sensors are mounted on tires or wheels and powered by radio frequency signals, enabling multiple sensors to communicate with a single reader using standardized protocols and alternative power sources like wireless charging or energy harvesting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If battery-powered sensor systems are used, then continuous monitoring is achieved, but system lifespan is limited and transmission capability is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit harvests energy from the ambient electromagnetic environment through electromagnetic energy harvesting circuitry, allowing the system to sustain itself without external battery replacement. The harvested energy charges a capacitor that powers the sensor and transmission components, enabling continuous operation indefinitely.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts transmission power and sampling frequency based on available harvested energy levels. When energy availability is high, the system increases transmission capability and monitoring frequency; when energy is low, it reduces consumption while maintaining essential monitoring functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors are added to expand monitoring capability, then system versatility improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit employs a single microcontroller that can execute multiple sensing functions through software configuration. The same hardware platform supports pressure, temperature, acceleration, and other sensor modes, allowing multiple sensors to be added without proportionally increasing hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system is divided into independent sensor units that can be individually configured and replaced. Each unit contains dedicated sensing elements for different parameters, allowing selective addition of specific sensor types without redesigning the entire system architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standardized communication protocols are implemented, then system compatibility improves, but implementation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex physical communication interfaces with standardized wireless RF communication protocols. This substitution enables protocol compatibility across different manufacturers and platforms without requiring expensive custom hardware interfaces or physical connectors.
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 provides cost-effective, reliable, and repeatable data transmission from multiple sensors, enhancing tire monitoring capabilities while withstanding harsh tire conditions and supporting advanced vehicle control systems.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor unit is configured to receive a radio frequency power signal from the reader and to transmit data to the reader
Implementation Method 2
an antenna for communicating with the reader. The at least one sensor unit is configured to receive a radio frequency power signal from the reader and to transmit data to the reader
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated tire sensor and reader system includes at least one sensor unit mounted a tire or a wheel. A reader is disposed remotely from the sensor unit. The sensor unit includes at least one sensor for measuring a parameter of the tire or wheel and an antenna for communicating with the reader. The sensor unit is configured to receive a radio frequency power signal from the reader and to transmit data to the reader. The reader includes an antenna for transmitting the radio frequency power signal to the sensor unit to actuate the one sensor unit. Upon actuation of the sensor unit, the sensor measures the parameter of the tire or wheel, and data from the sensor is transmitted from the sensor unit to the reader.