Tyre Sensor Module Antenna Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complex installation process of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) due to the need for antenna alignment during sensor module installation on the wheel rim or valve, and the limited interior space in the sensor housing which restricts antenna design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
Integrating the antenna into the housing material of the tire sensor module, allowing it to be formed on the inside or outside of the housing, enabling a helical design that eliminates alignment requirements during vulcanization and provides a larger interior space for the circuit carrier, with manufacturing methods like laser direct structuring or metal inserts for flexibility and simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the antenna is provided outside the housing, then the antenna can be installed on the wheel rim or valve, but the antenna must be aligned according to its construction which results in complex installation steps
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is merged with the housing structure, forming an integrated unit where the antenna is provided in or on the housing material itself. This combination eliminates the need for separate antenna alignment during installation, as the antenna moves with the housing as a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is segmented from the traditional separate component and integrated directly into the housing material, allowing the sensor module to be installed as a complete unit without separate alignment steps for the antenna.
2Productivity
If the antenna is provided outside the housing, then the antenna can be installed, but the installation process requires alignment which increases installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is pre-integrated into the housing during manufacturing, so that when the sensor module is installed in the tire, the antenna is already in its correct position and orientation, eliminating the need for time-consuming alignment operations during installation.
3Volume of stationary object
If the antenna is arranged in the housing interior, then the antenna is protected, but the antenna takes up installation space which reduces the available space for the circuit carrier
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is merged with the housing wall structure rather than being placed inside the housing interior. This integration allows the antenna to be part of the housing material itself, so it does not occupy additional space within the housing interior volume.
4Reliability
If the antenna is deformed during vulcanization, then the antenna may change orientation, but this results in incorrect antenna alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is merged with the housing structure so that both components deform together during vulcanization. Since the antenna is integrated into the housing material, it maintains its relative position and orientation to the housing, ensuring correct alignment is maintained throughout the vulcanization process.
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 easier and more flexible installation of tire sensor modules without alignment, enhances antenna length and radiation characteristics, and simplifies assembly by eliminating complex electrical contacting, while maintaining the functionality for measuring tire pressure, temperature, and vibrations.
Implementation Method 1
A laser direct structuring process (LDS) is advantageously used for this purpose, for which purpose at least one area of the housing is made of a laser-activatable thermoplastic
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a tyre sensor module which has : a circuit mount (6) on or in which at least one sensor element (7) is fitted in order to measure a measurement variable, an antenna for transmission of sensor signals (RF2) to a receiving device in the vehicle, and a housing (2) in whose housing interior (4) the circuit mount (6) is accommodated, with the antenna (14) being formed in the housing material of the housing (2) or on one housing face (16) of the housing (2).