Centralized TPMS Software Integration via Networked Configuration Tools

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) require frequent updates and maintenance of configuration tools due to new TPMS models and software updates, which is costly and time-consuming, limiting individual servicing capabilities and increasing the need for multiple tools for various vehicle makes and models.

Innovation Solution

A centralized system that allows real-time access and transmission of TPM sensor program software through a computer and Wi-Fi network to configuration tools, reducing the complexity and cost of tool maintenance by eliminating the need for frequent software updates and providing a unified platform for multiple vehicle configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If configuration tools store TPM sensor program software locally, then the tools can operate independently, but the tools require frequent updates and maintenance as new TPMS models and software updates are introduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool operation independenceVSAvoidsoftware update frequency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A central server acts as an intermediary between the configuration tools and the TPM sensor program software. The server stores and manages the software library, while tools access it remotely via network connection. This eliminates the need for tools to store software locally, reducing update frequency and maintenance complexity while maintaining operational reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The central server provides a universal platform that serves multiple configuration tools simultaneously, supporting various TPMS models and software versions. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate tool instances, each needing independent updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple configuration tools are maintained for different vehicle makes and models, then all vehicle types can be serviced, but the cost and complexity of tool maintenance increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle type coverageVSAvoidnumber of tools required
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The central server implements a universal database that stores TPM sensor program software for multiple vehicle makes, models, and TPMS types. Any configuration tool can access the entire software library through network connection, eliminating the need to maintain separate tools for different vehicle types while maintaining full adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of maintaining multiple physical tools with different software installations, the system creates virtual copies of the software library accessible to each tool through the network. This allows unlimited access to all vehicle type configurations without duplicating physical hardware or software installations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If configuration tools are updated frequently with new software, then compatibility with new TPMS models is maintained, but downtime and maintenance costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveTPM sensor compatibilityVSAvoidtool update downtime
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The central server serves as an updated intermediary that maintains the current software library. Tools access updated software on-demand through the network without requiring local installation or downtime for updates. The server handles all update management centrally, eliminating tool downtime while maintaining compatibility with new TPMS models.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The central server pre-loads and maintains an up-to-date library of TPM sensor program software for various TPMS models. When a tool needs to service a specific vehicle type, the appropriate software is already prepared and available for immediate access, eliminating the need for preliminary local updates before each service task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If expensive configuration tools are required for TPMS servicing, then professional service quality is maintained, but individual users cannot service their own vehicles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice qualityVSAvoiduser accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by allowing individual users to access the same central software library that professional technicians use. Through the network-connected configuration tool, users can obtain the appropriate TPM sensor program software for their specific vehicle and TPMS type, performing servicing themselves without requiring expensive professional equipment while maintaining service quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9487054B2Integration systems, methods and devices for tire pressure monitoring sensors
Publication Date: 2016.11.08 CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS INC
  • US9487054B2 patent drawing
  • US9487054B2 patent drawing
  • US9487054B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to systems, methods and devices for the integration of tire pressure monitoring sensors to a tire pressure monitoring system of a vehicle. In one aspect, the present invention provides a method of integrating a tire pressure monitoring sensor with a tire pressure monitoring system of a vehicle. The method includes the step of selecting with a computer a program software for a tire pressure monitoring sensor of a tire pressure monitoring system of a vehicle. The method further includes transmitting the selected program software from the computer to a configuration tool for a tire pressure monitoring sensor. The method further includes utilizing the selected program software to integrate the tire pressure monitoring sensor with the tire pressure monitoring system of the vehicle.