TPMS Wireless Communication Periodicity Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) face high energy consumption issues due to frequent wireless communications using ultra-high frequency signals, which limits the service life of wheel units to less than 6 months when using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals for two-way communication with smart devices, despite their potential for enhanced user experience and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A method that adjusts the reaction time of wireless communications between TPMS units and smart devices by alternating phases of activation and standby, based on the device's location and movement, optimizing energy consumption by setting communication periods to 1-5 seconds when approaching the vehicle, 20-200 seconds when stationary, and reducing frequency when the device is farther away, thereby minimizing battery drain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ultra-high frequency signals (Bluetooth Low Energy) are used for two-way communication between wheel units and smart devices, then user experience and functionality are enhanced, but energy consumption increases and service life decreases to less than 6 months
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic communication phases alternating between active communication periods and standby periods. The wheel units switch between transmitting data to smart devices and entering low-power standby mode, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining enhanced functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system dynamically adjusts its operation mode based on detected presence of smart devices. When a smart device is detected in proximity, the system transitions to active communication mode; when no device is present, it switches to standby mode. This dynamic adaptation optimizes energy consumption while preserving user experience capabilities.
2Productivity
If frequent wireless communications are performed using ultra-high frequency signals, then real-time monitoring and user interaction are improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic communication cycles with defined active and standby phases. During active phases, real-time monitoring data is transmitted; during standby phases, communication is suspended to conserve energy. This periodic operation maintains monitoring capability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel units autonomously manage their communication schedule, switching between active and standby modes based on internal state and detected presence of smart devices. This self-service approach optimizes the balance between real-time monitoring productivity and energy consumption without requiring external control.
3Ease of operation
If continuous two-way communication is maintained with smart devices, then user interaction and hands-free access are enhanced, but battery drain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic communication windows for hands-free access functionality. During these periodic active phases, the wheel units can interact with smart devices for authentication and control functions. Between these phases, the units enter standby mode to minimize battery drain, thus preserving ease of operation while reducing energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of smart device presence before initiating active communication. By detecting proximity in advance, the system can prepare for upcoming interaction phases and transition smoothly between standby and active modes, optimizing battery usage while maintaining readiness for hands-free operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for adjusting the periodicity of wireless communications between a tire pressure monitoring system for a motor vehicle and a smart device for a user of the vehicle in question is disclosed. On the basis of the position and any movement of the user's smart device in the environment of the vehicle, the periodicity of the alternation, by the different units of the system, of phases of transmission/polling of ultra high frequency signals with standby phases is modified.