RF Tire Module Antenna Electromagnetic Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of electronic components, such as radiofrequency transponders, into tire structures poses challenges due to potential tire damage, radiofrequency communication interference from rubber and metallic elements, and thermomechanical stresses, which affect the reliability and integrity of the components.

Innovation Solution

A radiofrequency communication module with a radiofrequency transponder embedded in a rubber mixture, featuring a primary antenna electromagnetically coupled to a helical spring radiating antenna with a steel core, which is chemically bonded to the rubber, minimizing mechanical stress and improving communication performance by dissociating antenna dimensions from electrical impedance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the radiating antenna is directly galvanically connected to the electronic chip, then the electrical connection is simple, but the mechanical stress and risk of deterioration increase under thermomechanical stresses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection structureVSAvoidphysical integrity of electronic component
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a primary antenna as an intermediary element between the electronic chip and the radiating antenna. The primary antenna is galvanically connected to the electronic chip and electromagnetically coupled to the radiating antenna, thereby decoupling the mechanical and electrical connections from the radiating antenna and reducing mechanical stress on the chip connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the direct mechanical/galvanic connection between the electronic chip and the radiating antenna with an electromagnetic coupling system. The primary antenna provides the galvanic connection to the chip, while energy transfer to the radiating antenna occurs through electromagnetic fields, eliminating direct mechanical stress on the chip.

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

2Reliability

If the radiating antenna is made large to match communication frequency, then the communication performance is improved, but the size constraint conflicts with tire integration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication performanceVSAvoidantenna size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the antenna system into two separate components: a primary antenna (small, integrated with the chip) and a radiating antenna (optimized for communication frequency). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while working together as a complete system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent separates the functions of electrical connection and radiation across different spatial and functional dimensions. The primary antenna handles the electrical connection to the chip in a compact form, while the radiating antenna operates in the electromagnetic radiation dimension, allowing optimal performance in both aspects without direct size constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If the radiating antenna is flexibly designed to limit damage risk, then the physical integrity of the tire is protected, but the energy transfer efficiency may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephysical integrity of the tireVSAvoidenergy transfer efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The primary antenna serves as an intermediary that provides a stable, efficient energy transfer path from the electronic chip through electromagnetic coupling to the radiating antenna. This intermediary system ensures efficient energy transfer while allowing the radiating antenna to be designed with flexibility for tire integration.

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 configuration enhances the physical integrity and communication reliability of the transponder within the tire, reducing mechanical stress and interference, while maintaining efficient energy transfer and robust anchoring in the tire environment.

Implementation Method 1

the primary antenna is electromagnetically coupled to the radiating antenna

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic coupling: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

an outer layer of metallic adhesion to the rubbery mixture which surrounds it

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical bonding: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentEP3548316B1Radio frequency communication module for a tire
Publication Date: 2022.03.30 MICHELIN & CO (CIE GEN DES ESTAB MICHELIN)
  • EP3548316B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3548316B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP3548316B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

Radiofrequency or semi-finished communication module suitable for being incorporated within the structure of a tyre, including a radiofrequency transponder embedded in a rubber mixture and including an electronic chip and a radiating antenna suitable for communicating with a radiofrequency reader, wherein the radiofrequency transponder further includes a primary antenna electrically connected to said electronic chip, wherein the primary antenna is electromagnetically coupled to the radiating antenna, wherein the radiating antenna consists of a single-strand helical spring, and wherein the radiating antenna has a steel core coated with an outer metal adhesion layer for adhering to the rubber mixture surrounding it.