TPMS Sensor Dispenser With Secure Auto-Programming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional TPMS sensors in vehicles face challenges in identifying the correct communication protocol due to multiple manufacturers and OEMs, leading to inefficiencies in programming and installation, and are prone to theft or damage in hostile environments.
Innovation Solution
An automatic dispenser device with a shielded cavity, programming module, and user interface that reads sensor information, determines the correct protocol, and programs TPMS sensors securely before dispensing them, using electromagnetic signals and a database to match vehicle-specific protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If TPMS sensors are stored in accessible locations for easy retrieval, then ease of operation is improved, but security against theft and damage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor storage system is segmented into multiple locked compartments within the dispenser, with sensors dispensed one at a time through controlled mechanisms. This segmentation allows easy retrieval through the dispensing interface while keeping the main storage secured behind authentication barriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser acts as an intermediary between the secure storage environment and the user. It provides authenticated access control, electromagnetic shielding during programming, and controlled dispensing, thereby protecting sensors from theft and environmental damage while maintaining ease of retrieval through its user interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple TPMS sensor types from different manufacturers are supported, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser is designed with universal multi-functionality to handle multiple TPMS sensor types from different manufacturers. It incorporates a database of various communication protocols, automatic protocol detection capabilities, and a unified programming interface that adapts to different sensor types without requiring separate specialized equipment for each manufacturer.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-service automation where the dispenser automatically detects the sensor type, retrieves the appropriate programming protocol from its database, and configures the sensor without requiring manual intervention or expert knowledge from the technician. This automation handles the complexity internally while presenting a simple interface to the user.
3Device complexity
If TPMS sensors are programmed manually with protocol selection, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser performs preliminary actions by pre-loading a database of communication protocols for various vehicle manufacturers and sensor types. When a sensor is inserted, the system automatically retrieves and applies the appropriate programming parameters without requiring the technician to manually search or configure settings, thereby eliminating time-consuming manual protocol selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that automatically detect sensor type and communicate with the vehicle's ECU to determine the correct programming protocol. This feedback loop enables the dispenser to self-configure the appropriate settings based on real-time information, eliminating manual intervention and significantly reducing programming time.
4Duration of action of moving object
If TPMS sensors operate in sleep mode to extend battery life, then duration of action is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser performs self-service by automatically triggering and programming sensors without requiring external TPMS tools or manual activation procedures. The system detects when a sensor is inserted, automatically wakes it from sleep mode through electromagnetic triggering, retrieves its identification information, and completes programming, thereby maintaining battery life while eliminating operational complexity for the user.
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
Facilitates efficient, secure, and accurate programming of TPMS sensors, reducing installation time and ensuring compatibility with various vehicle models, while protecting sensors from environmental hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a shielded cavity. The shielded cavity may be configured to receive a sensor to be programmed
Implementation Method 2
using electromagnetic signals and a database to match vehicle-specific protocols
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1A
Figure 2
AI summary
An automatic dispensing device for use in storing and selectively dispensing electronic transmission devices, for example tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) tire sensors. The dispensing device assists a user in determining the proper transmission device to be dispensed and programs or configures the transmission device in the dispenser prior to dispensing the programmed or configured transmission device to the user. When used for TPMS tire sensors, the dispenser determines the type of TPMS sensor to be programmed, programs the sensor with the proper communication protocol, and dispenses the programmed or configured sensor to the user for installation in the vehicle wheel and tire.