Stacked Tire PCB Assembly for Interchangeable Sensor Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire condition sensing devices lack efficient and interchangeable configurations for multiple electronic components, particularly in stacked arrangements, which hinders their integration and connectivity within a tire environment.
Innovation Solution
A modular electronics assembly featuring printed circuit boards with offset electrical connectors and attachment pegs allows for interchangeable stacking and electrical connectivity, supported by a base for secure attachment within the tire.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electronic devices are stacked within a tire, then the functionality and sensing capability are improved, but the integration and connectivity between devices become complex and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector design where each printed circuit board (PCB) contains both male and female electrical connectors that can interface with adjacent PCBs. This universal interface allows any PCB to connect to any other PCB in the stack, enabling interchangeable positioning and simplifying integration. The same connector type serves multiple functions: electrical connection, mechanical alignment, and stack assembly, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining enhanced sensing capability through multiple devices.
2Volume of moving object
If electronic devices are arranged in stacked positions, then the space utilization within the tire is improved, but the electrical connectivity and alignment between devices become difficult to ensure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric mechanical features on the PCBs, specifically keyed slots and corresponding protrusions, that enforce precise angular and positional alignment when PCBs are stacked. These asymmetric elements ensure that electrical connectors on one PCB align perfectly with complementary connectors on adjacent PCBs, eliminating alignment issues despite the compact stacked arrangement. This asymmetric design maintains manufacturing precision while enabling efficient space utilization within the tire.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable PCB configurations are implemented, then the adaptability and reconfigurability are improved, but the connection reliability and electrical contact stability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electronic system into modular PCB segments, each with standardized connector interfaces. The connectors are segmented into male and female components that mate together, providing both mechanical interlocking and electrical contact. This segmentation enables interchangeable PCB configurations for adaptability while the precise mechanical engagement and multiple contact points maintain connection reliability. The modular design allows reconfiguration without compromising the stability of individual connections.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
An electronics assembly is provided for use with a tire. The assembly includes a plurality of printed circuit boards, each of which includes an electronic device configured to sense a condition of the tire. Attachment pegs are provided to attach the printed circuit boards together in stacked positions that are spaced apart by the attachment pegs. Each attachment peg has a lower end portion configured to attach to any one of the printed circuit boards. Each attachment peg further has an upper end portion configured to attach to any other one of the printed circuit boards. This enables the printed circuit boards to be attached interchangeably between the stacked positions.