TPMS Sensor Self-Programming via Record and Play
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) require manual and individual programming of sensors with specific transmission formats, which is error-prone, time-consuming, and inefficient, necessitating the development of a method to simplify and automate the process.
Innovation Solution
A 'record and play' technique is employed where a first TPMS wheel unit records and replays transmissions from a second wheel unit, identifying and updating only changing data, such as pressure and temperature information, allowing for cloning of TPMS systems without specific protocols or codes, and enabling communication with multiple manufacturer protocols using a single sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual and individual programming of TPM sensors is performed, then the transmission format can be configured for specific automobile manufacturers, but the process becomes error-prone, time-consuming, and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a 'record and play' technique where a first TPM wheel unit records transmissions from a second wheel unit and replays them with updated data. This copying approach eliminates manual programming by automatically capturing and reproducing the correct transmission format, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability to different manufacturers and programming efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-programming where the TPM sensor automatically configures itself by recording transmissions from a reference wheel unit. The sensor identifies changing data portions and updates its own transmission format without external intervention, eliminating the need for manual programming and scan tools while maintaining manufacturer-specific compatibility.
2Ease of operation
If manual programming with hand-held devices is used, then individual sensor configuration is achieved, but the process requires additional tools and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for hand-held programming devices by using a copying mechanism where the first wheel unit records and replays transmissions from the second wheel unit. This approach simplifies the configuration process to a automatic record-and-play operation, removing the complexity associated with manual programming tools and procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the programming function from external hand-held devices and integrates it into the wheel unit itself. By recording transmissions internally and using the recorded data for configuration, the system removes the dependency on external programming tools, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If individual programming of each TPM sensor is performed, then specific manufacturer protocols can be implemented, but time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a copying approach where the first wheel unit records transmissions from a second wheel unit that already operates with the correct manufacturer protocol. By replaying these recorded transmissions with updated data, the system instantly configures the sensor for the specific manufacturer without time-consuming manual programming, thus resolving the contradiction between protocol adaptability and programming time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration by recording the correct transmission format in advance during the recording phase. When the first wheel unit needs to be configured, the pre-recorded transmission data is already available for immediate replay and adaptation, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual programming while ensuring proper manufacturer protocol support.
Data Source
AI summary
A first signal transmission is received from a transmitter external to the monitor, the first signal having a transmission characteristic. Based upon the transmission characteristic of the first signal transmission and not any data in the first transmission, a corresponding at least one protocol is determined. A data resolution based upon the transmission characteristic is determined. A second data transmission is formed according to the corresponding at least one protocol, and the sensed data is inserted into the second data transmission according to the resolution. The second data transmission is transmitted.