Passive Tire Sensor Harvesting RF Energy
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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 effectiveness and longevity in monitoring tire conditions accurately and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An integrated tire sensor and reader system that uses passive radio frequency communication, allowing multiple sensors to connect with a single reader, employs standardized protocols, and can be powered by wireless RF signals or alternative energy sources, enabling cost-effective and reliable data transmission from tire-mounted sensors to vehicle control systems.
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 cost and maintenance complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit harvests energy from the electromagnetic fields present in the tire environment (RFID readers, radio communications) to power its operations, eliminating the need for external battery replacement or complex power management systems. The sensor serves itself by converting ambient electromagnetic energy into electrical power.
Solution Approach 2:
An energy harvesting circuit acts as an intermediary between the ambient electromagnetic environment and the sensor unit, converting RF energy into usable electrical power. This intermediary component enables continuous operation without direct battery connection or complex wiring.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are deployed per tire, then monitoring accuracy improves, but system cost and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple sensor types (pressure, temperature, acceleration, wear) within a single integrated housing. This multi-functional design allows comprehensive monitoring without requiring separate systems for each parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sensing functions are merged into a single sensor unit that communicates through one RFID interface. The consolidation of multiple sensors into one unified device reduces configuration complexity while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standardized communication protocols are implemented, then system compatibility improves, but implementation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit implements standardized RFID communication protocols that are already widely deployed in other industries. By copying proven communication standards rather than developing proprietary protocols, the system achieves compatibility without incurring high R&D and licensing costs.
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 accurate and repeatable data transmission, supports multiple sensors, and extends operational life by using alternative power sources, enhancing vehicle safety and performance through efficient tire monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor unit is configured to receive a radio frequency power signal from the reader
Implementation Method 2
data from the at least one sensor is transmitted from the at least one sensor unit to the reader
Data Source
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AI summary
An integrated tire sensor and reader system (10) is disclosed. The system (10) comprises at least one sensor unit (12) mounted on at least one of a tire (16) and a wheel (30) and a reader or receiver (14) disposed remotely from the at least one sensor unit (12). The at least one sensor unit (12) includes at least one sensor (36) for measuring a parameter of the tire (16) or wheel (30), and an antenna (38) for communicating with the reader or receiver (14). The at least one sensor unit (12) is configured to receive a radio frequency power signal from the reader or receiver (14) and to transmit data to the reader or receiver (14). The reader or receiver (14) includes an antenna (56) for transmitting the radio frequency power signal to the at least one sensor unit (12) to actuate the at least one sensor unit (12). Upon actuation of the at least one sensor unit (12), the at least one sensor (36) measures the parameter of the tire (16) or wheel (30), and data from the at least one sensor (36) is transmitted from the at least one sensor unit (12) to the reader or receiver (14).