TPM Sensor Dynamic Protocol Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire pressure monitoring (TPM) sensors face challenges in flexibility, battery life, and user convenience due to unique IDs and specific protocols, leading to limitations in multi-application usage and potential configuration errors.
Innovation Solution
A TPM sensor system that dynamically adjusts its ID and transmission protocol based on received low-frequency signals, allowing a single sensor to be used across multiple vehicle types, with automatic locking and reset features to prevent incorrect configurations and conserve battery life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a TPM sensor uses a unique ID programmed into internal electronics, then the sensor can be reliably identified, but the sensor cannot be used on different types of vehicles requiring different ID configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic ID configuration where the TPM sensor can change its identifier based on the vehicle type it is installed in. The sensor receives vehicle type information through the data bus and dynamically adjusts its ID to match the required configuration, transforming a static identification system into a dynamic one that adapts to different vehicle applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal TPM sensor that can function across multiple vehicle types by implementing a configuration mechanism that allows the same physical sensor to adapt its ID and communication parameters to match different vehicle manufacturers and models, eliminating the need for vehicle-specific sensor variants.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a TPM sensor transmits multiple protocols to support wide vehicle compatibility, then the sensor can work on various vehicles, but the transmission consumes much battery life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic protocol selection where the TPM sensor determines the appropriate communication protocol based on the detected vehicle type and only transmits using that specific protocol. This dynamic adaptation eliminates the need to continuously transmit multiple protocols, significantly reducing battery consumption while maintaining compatibility with the target vehicle system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback from the vehicle's data bus to determine which protocol to use. The sensor receives information about the vehicle type through the bus and uses this feedback to select and transmit only the appropriate protocol, avoiding unnecessary transmissions and optimizing energy usage based on actual system requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a TPM sensor is reset to default condition, then the sensor can be reconfigured for a different vehicle, but the sensor may fail if not relearned properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service relearning mechanism where the TPM sensor automatically performs the relearning process after being reset to default conditions. The sensor independently communicates with the vehicle's TPM system to acquire the correct configuration parameters without requiring manual intervention, thereby preventing configuration errors and ensuring reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary configuration validation before finalizing the sensor setup. After reset and during the relearning process, the sensor verifies the received configuration parameters and ensures proper setup before becoming fully operational, preventing improper configuration and potential system failures.
4Reliability
If a TPM sensor is locked in a certain configuration, then the sensor transmits appropriate tire information for the vehicle, but the sensor may be locked in the wrong configuration causing failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking mechanism that conditions the locking process on verified vehicle type matching. The sensor only locks its configuration after confirming that the detected vehicle type corresponds to the configured parameters, and provides a controlled mechanism to unlock and reconfigure if the wrong vehicle type is detected, balancing transmission accuracy with operational flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A TPM sensor is programmed. The TPM sensor is configured with a TPM identifier and makes transmissions according to a current transmission protocol or protocols. A low frequency (LF) signal is received and the LF signal was transmitted according to a predetermined transmission protocol or language. An identity of the predetermined transmission protocol or language associated with the LF signal is determined. Based upon the identity of the predetermined transmission protocol or language, at least one of the TPM identifier or the current transmission protocol or protocols are adjusted, and the TPM sensor subsequently makes transmissions according to the predetermined transmission protocol associated with the LF signal.