RF Repeater Tire Localization System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current tire parameter monitoring systems face challenges in accurately localizing tire positions on a vehicle due to technical limitations and high costs, limiting the implementation of effective tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS).

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a tire parameter monitoring system using at least two RF repeaters dedicated to individual sensor units, where each RF repeater transmits identification signals to a central unit, allowing for accurate localization of tire parameters such as pressure and temperature by matching received signal strength levels with known RF repeater positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional TPMS localization methods are used, then tire position identification can be achieved, but the system cost is high and technical limitations prevent widespread implementation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetire position identification reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity and cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical localization systems with a simplified RF-based identification system. Instead of using expensive LF cabling or complex mechanical position teaching systems, the invention uses RF repeaters that automatically identify tire positions through signal transmission and comparison, eliminating the need for complex mechanical positioning infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a simplified copy of the localization function using RF signal characteristics. Rather than implementing a full-blown complex localization system, it uses the RF signal strength and timing characteristics to create a functional equivalent that identifies tire positions without requiring the original complex system infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Measurement precision

If dedicated RF repeaters are assigned to each sensor unit, then tire localization accuracy is improved, but the number of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetire localization accuracyVSAvoidnumber of RF repeaters
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the RF repeater functionality into dedicated units for each sensor, allowing each repeater to independently handle identification for its associated sensor. This segmentation enables accurate one-to-one mapping between sensors and positions, improving localization precision while allowing the system to scale modularly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces RF repeaters as intermediary devices between the sensors and the central control unit. These intermediaries facilitate accurate position identification by relaying and identifying signals without requiring direct complex communication between all system components, thus improving measurement precision while managing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Use of energy by moving object

If RF repeaters are used instead of LF cabling, then power consumption is reduced and cost is decreased, but signal reliability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidsignal transmission reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes RF wireless communication for LF cable-based communication. This replacement eliminates the power-intensive nature of LF systems while maintaining reliable signal transmission through the use of dedicated RF repeaters that ensure accurate signal delivery and identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses RF repeaters as intermediary devices that enhance signal reliability in the wireless communication path. These intermediaries actively manage signal transmission, ensuring that power-efficient RF communication maintains the same level of reliability as traditional cable-based systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This approach enables reliable and cost-effective tire localization without the need for expensive LF cabling, maintaining high confidence levels in tire parameter monitoring, reducing power consumption, and providing a hardware-based solution for tire position updates, applicable to both OEM and aftermarket applications.

Implementation Method 1

transmitting an RF repeater signal with each of the RF repeaters to the central unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10857844B2Tire parameter monitoring system
Publication Date: 2020.12.08 INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES AG
  • US10857844B2 patent drawing
  • US10857844B2 patent drawing
  • US10857844B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tire parameter monitoring system comprising at least two RF repeaters, wherein each of the at least two RF repeaters is dedicated to an individual sensor unit of at least two sensor units.