Vehicle Tyre Tread Depth Determination Using Single Sensor Time Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining vehicle tire tread depth are imprecise and unreliable, as they often require multiple sensors and complex correlation algorithms, making them impractical for precise and reliable measurements.
Innovation Solution
A single sensor measures both tire rotation time and tire contact time, with the ratio of these times serving as a measure of tire circumference change, allowing for direct and simple determination of tread depth, and incorporating correction data from various sources such as vehicle weight, tire pressure, and traction control systems to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and complex correlation algorithms are used to determine tire tread depth, then measurement precision may be improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (tire rotation time measurement and tire contact time measurement) into a single sensor system. The sensor simultaneously captures both time parameters, eliminating the need for separate sensor systems and complex correlation algorithms while maintaining measurement precision through the ratio-based calculation method
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting tire rotation time, detecting tire contact time, and providing data for tread depth calculation. This multi-functional sensor replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized sensors and complex processing algorithms, simplifying the overall device while improving reliability
2Device complexity
If a single sensor is used to measure tire parameters, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the measurement approach by using time parameters (tire rotation time and tire contact time) instead of direct physical measurements. The ratio of these time parameters provides a precise indirect measurement of tread depth, allowing a single sensor to achieve measurement precision previously requiring multiple sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces time as an intermediary parameter to connect the sensor measurement with tire tread depth. By measuring how long the tire takes to rotate and how long it remains in contact with the road, the time ratio serves as a mediator that accurately reflects tread depth without requiring direct physical measurement of the tread itself
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
This approach enables precise and reliable determination of tire tread depth with increased accuracy, reducing the risk of accidents and allowing for timely tire maintenance by providing the driver with real-time tread depth information and warning signals.
Implementation Method 1
essentially a centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the vehicle tire acts on the sensor
Implementation Method 2
essentially the gravitational force acts on the sensor
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining the profile depth of a vehicle tyre, comprising at least one sensor disposed in or at the vehicle tyre, characterized in that the tyre profile depth is determined as a function of a tyre contact surface detected by the sensor.