Tire Deformation Power Generation for TPMS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) rely on replaceable batteries, which have limited lifespan and require new system purchases, and existing energy-harvesting solutions face challenges such as complexity, weight, volume issues, and impracticality for existing vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A power generation system comprising an electromechanical converter with a pulley, torsion spring, dynamo, and conical spring mechanism that utilizes a wire stretched between the tire and wheel rim, converting periodic tire deformation into electrical energy without adhesion or requiring new tire designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a battery is used in TPMS, then the system can operate for a certain period, but the battery must be replaced after 1-7 years and the system cannot be integrated permanently
Solution Approach 1:
The TPMS uses a self-charging mechanism where the tire's periodic deformation during rotation drives an electromagnetic generator to produce electricity, enabling the system to generate its own power indefinitely without external battery replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the dynamic periodic deformation of the tire during rotation to generate electrical energy, converting the mechanical motion into electricity through electromagnetic induction to power the monitoring system continuously
2Ease of operation
If wireless power transmission antenna/coil is placed near the wheel, then energy can be transmitted wirelessly, but the system requires integration into future vehicle chassis and is not compatible with existing vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the power generation function from the vehicle chassis integration requirement by placing the electromagnetic generator directly on the wheel, allowing the system to be self-powered without needing external antenna/coil infrastructure in the vehicle
Solution Approach 2:
The system generates its own power locally at the wheel using tire deformation, eliminating the need for external wireless power transmission infrastructure and making it compatible with all vehicles regardless of chassis integration capabilities
3Power
If piezo-electric beam with mass is used to generate power, then electricity can be generated at each wheel rotation, but the power output is only in microwatts which is insufficient for TPMS
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the piezo-electric mechanical system with an electromagnetic induction system, where a coil and magnet configuration converts the mechanical motion of tire deformation into electrical energy with much higher power output suitable for TPMS operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the power generation mechanism from piezo-electric effect to electromagnetic induction, fundamentally altering the physical principle and scaling up the power output from microwatts to sufficient levels for TPMS while reducing mechanical complexity
4Power
If swinging mechanism is used for electromagnetic induction, then power can be generated, but at high speeds the centrifugal force causes the mechanism to rotate with the wheel instead of remaining stationary
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the orientation of the electromagnetic generator from a horizontal swinging mechanism to a vertical configuration where the coil and magnet are arranged along the rotational axis, allowing the mechanism to remain stationary relative to the wheel center while the tire deforms around it
Solution Approach 2:
The system counteracts the centrifugal force effect by positioning the electromagnetic generator at the center of rotation where centrifugal forces balance, and using the vertical arrangement to maintain the stator-stator relationship between the coil and magnet during high-speed rotation
5Duration of action of moving object
If tire deformation is used to generate power, then continuous power can be generated during vehicle movement, but the deformation amount varies with vehicle weight, pressure level, and temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to dynamically adapt to varying tire deformation conditions by using a flexible coupling mechanism between the tire and the electromagnetic generator, allowing the system to maintain reliable power generation across different vehicle weights, pressures, and temperatures
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the natural variations in tire deformation parameters (caused by weight, pressure, temperature) to drive the electromagnetic generator, converting these mechanical parameter changes into electrical energy while the system's design ensures stable output despite input variations
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 solution provides a practical, efficient, and environmentally friendly power generation system that meets TPMS power requirements without altering the tire or vehicle chassis, offering stable operation and reduced maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one dynamo (7) which converts mechanical energy into electric energy by rotating around its own axis
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A power generation (harvesting) system (1) which meets the power requirement of tire (A) pressure monitoring systems or similar systems that might be provided in the tire (A) which require power, and which furthermore does not require any modification in the tire (A), does not require any intervention in the vehicle's chassis and has a practical installation system. The system does not hinder mounting and changing tires (A), and can return to its initial mounting position in case of a tire (A) blowout.