Tire Puncture Detection via Embedded Grid Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drivers often remain unaware of tire punctures due to sealants masking pressure changes, distractions, and high hardcoded thresholds in Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems, leading to increased risk of tire blowouts and costly repairs, as conventional detection methods require dismounting the wheel and are not always accessible.
Innovation Solution
A grid circuit embedded in the tire with conductive wires and a computational device that monitors resistance changes, coupled with a wireless communication device to transmit puncture detection information to the vehicle's computer, providing immediate alerts and radial location of the puncture without needing to remove the tire.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If sealants are used in the tire to prevent drastic pressure changes, then tire pressure stability is improved, but puncture detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tire monitoring system is segmented into multiple independent sensing zones arranged in a grid pattern on the tire surface. Each zone independently monitors local conditions, allowing puncture detection even when overall pressure remains stable due to sealant action. This segmentation enables localized detection that overcomes the masking effect of sealants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary sensing mechanism (grid of sensors detecting surface deformation, temperature changes, or local pressure variations) that indirectly detects punctures without relying on overall pressure changes. This intermediary approach allows detection of puncture events even when sealants prevent drastic pressure changes from propagating through the entire tire.
2Device complexity
If conventional tire pressure monitoring systems use hardcoded thresholds, then system simplicity is improved, but puncture detection sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system transitions from static hardcoded thresholds to dynamic adaptive thresholding. The system continuously learns normal tire behavior patterns and adjusts thresholds accordingly, enabling sensitive puncture detection while maintaining system simplicity through automated adaptation rather than complex manual calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where detection results and operational data are used to continuously refine detection algorithms and thresholds. This feedback loop improves puncture detection sensitivity over time while keeping the system simple through automated learning rather than requiring complex pre-programmed thresholds for every scenario.
3Productivity
If drivers are distracted on the road or travel at high speed, then vehicle operation efficiency is improved, but puncture awareness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tire monitoring system operates autonomously without requiring driver attention or intervention. It continuously self-monitors tire conditions, automatically detects punctures, and provides alerts, allowing drivers to maintain full focus on road operation while the system independently ensures tire safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual inspection method (driver visually checking tires or feeling for abnormalities) with an electronic sensing and communication system. This substitution enables continuous monitoring without diverting driver attention, maintaining operational efficiency while preventing information loss about tire punctures.
4Measurement precision
If water tank methods are used for puncture detection, then puncture location accuracy is improved, but operational accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical water tank immersion method with an electronic sensing system embedded in or attached to the tire. The grid of sensors continuously monitors tire surface conditions, enabling puncture location detection without requiring wheel removal or immersion in water, thus maintaining high location accuracy while dramatically improving operational accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing system is pre-installed on the tire before use, establishing continuous monitoring capability in advance. This preliminary action eliminates the need for post-puncture detection methods like water tanks, providing both accurate location data and immediate accessibility whenever the vehicle is in operation.
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
Enables early detection and location of tire punctures, reducing the risk of further damage and allowing for potentially roadside repairs, thereby enhancing safety and reducing repair costs.
Implementation Method 1
A grid circuit embedded in the tire with conductive wires and a computational device that monitors resistance changes
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a grid circuit having dimensions corresponding to an inner surface of a tire, a computational device coupled to the grid circuit, and a wireless communications device coupled to the computational device. The wireless communications device is configured to transmit detection of damage to the grid circuit. A computer-implemented method includes monitoring a grid circuit positioned in a tire to detect damage to conductors of the grid circuit, detecting damage to at least one of the conductors of the grid circuit, and transmitting information about the damage to a computer of a vehicle. A computer-implemented method includes receiving, from a computational device coupled to a grid circuit in a tire, information about damage to the grid circuit and outputting an indication that the tire is damaged.