US20050188757A1 - Tire parameter sensing system having a magnetically conductive rim and an associated method - Google Patents
Tire parameter sensing system having a magnetically conductive rim and an associated method Download PDFInfo
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- US20050188757A1 US20050188757A1 US10/789,116 US78911604A US2005188757A1 US 20050188757 A1 US20050188757 A1 US 20050188757A1 US 78911604 A US78911604 A US 78911604A US 2005188757 A1 US2005188757 A1 US 2005188757A1
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- Prior art keywords
- tire
- rim
- based unit
- magnetically conductive
- coil antenna
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60C—VEHICLE TYRES; TYRE INFLATION; TYRE CHANGING; CONNECTING VALVES TO INFLATABLE ELASTIC BODIES IN GENERAL; DEVICES OR ARRANGEMENTS RELATED TO TYRES
- B60C23/00—Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehicles; Arrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanks; Tyre cooling arrangements
- B60C23/02—Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure
- B60C23/04—Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure mounted on the wheel or tyre
- B60C23/0408—Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure mounted on the wheel or tyre transmitting the signals by non-mechanical means from the wheel or tyre to a vehicle body mounted receiver
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60C—VEHICLE TYRES; TYRE INFLATION; TYRE CHANGING; CONNECTING VALVES TO INFLATABLE ELASTIC BODIES IN GENERAL; DEVICES OR ARRANGEMENTS RELATED TO TYRES
- B60C23/00—Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehicles; Arrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanks; Tyre cooling arrangements
- B60C23/02—Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure
- B60C23/04—Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure mounted on the wheel or tyre
- B60C23/0408—Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure mounted on the wheel or tyre transmitting the signals by non-mechanical means from the wheel or tyre to a vehicle body mounted receiver
- B60C23/041—Means for supplying power to the signal- transmitting means on the wheel
- B60C23/0413—Wireless charging of active radio frequency circuits
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a tire parameter sensing system for a vehicle and to an associated method. More particularly, the present invention relates to a tire parameter sensing system in which a magnetically conductive rim is used for guiding magnetic flux to an antenna that provides energy to a tire-based unit. The present invention also relates to an associated method for providing energy to a tire-based unit.
- Tire parameter sensing systems for vehicles typically include a plurality of tire-based.-units and a single vehicle-based unit. Each tire-based unit has an associated tire of the vehicle and is operative to sense at least one parameter of the tire. The sensed parameter(s) may include temperature, pressure, etc. Each tire-based unit is also operative to transmit a parameter signal indicative of the sensed parameter(s) to the vehicle-based unit.
- the vehicle-based unit is connected to a display. In response to receiving a parameter signal from a tire-based unit, the vehicle-based unit outputs a signal to the display. The display is responsive to the signal for displaying the sensed tire parameter(s).
- a tire parameter sensing system It is common for the tire-based units of a tire parameter sensing system to be battery powered. Battery powered tire-based units, however, have specific limitations, such as, for example, a limited life, a limited current supply, and a limited operating temperature range. The design of a tire parameter sensing system using battery powered tire-based units must be mindful of these limitations. As a result, it is common for a battery powered tire-based unit to transmit parameter signals only in response to a determination that a sensed parameter is outside of a desired range.
- the battery powered tire-based unit may transmit a parameter signal to the vehicle-based unit only when the sensed tire pressure is determined to be below 32 psi or above 36 psi.
- the battery life of the battery powered tire-based unit may be extended.
- the tire-based units do not include batteries.
- Tire-based units that do not include batteries may receive energy through induction.
- devices for producing a magnetic field are located adjacent the tires having the tire-based units.
- Each tire-based unit includes an antenna in which electrical energy is induced when the antenna is placed in the magnetic field.
- the antenna typically is a loop antenna that extends completely around the circumference of the tire.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,470,933 discloses a system in which a bead of a tire forms the antenna of the tire-based unit.
- the bead of the tire extends completely around the circumference of the tire so that electrical energy will be induced at any rotational angle of the tire relative to the vehicle.
- the present invention relates to a tire parameter sensing system for sensing a parameter of a tire of a vehicle.
- the tire parameter sensing system comprises a power transmitting antenna that is actuatable for producing a magnetic field at a location of the tire.
- a rim upon which the tire is mounted has a circumferential outer surface that is contacted by the tire when the tire is mounted on the rim.
- At least first and second magnetically conductive surface portions of the rim form a drop well located within the outer surface.
- the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions are angled relative to one another.
- a tire-based unit senses a parameter of the tire and provides an indication of the sensed parameter.
- a coil antenna of the tire-based unit is responsive to the magnetic field for providing energy to the tire-based unit.
- the coil antenna has a central axis.
- the tire-based unit is mounted in the drop well of the rim so that the coil antenna is located adjacent to both the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions.
- the central axis of the coil antenna extends in a direction parallel to the first magnetically conductive surface portion and the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions guide magnetic flux of the magnetic field to the coil antenna.
- the present invention relates to a method for providing energy to a tire-based unit of a tire parameter sensing system of a vehicle.
- the tire-based unit is associated with a tire of the vehicle.
- the method comprises the steps of producing a magnetic field at a location of the tire; mounting the tire upon a rim having a circumferential outer surface that is contacted by the tire and at least first and second magnetically conductive surface portions that form a drop well in the outer surface of the rim, the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions being angled relative to one another; and mounting the tire-based unit in the drop well of the rim so that a coil antenna of the tire-based unit is located adjacent to both the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions and so that a central axis of the coil antenna extends in a direction parallel to the first magnetically conductive surface portions and the first and second magnetically conductive coil portions guide magnetic flux of the magnetic field to the coil antenna.
- FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle including a tire parameter sensing system constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a tire-based unit of the tire parameter sensing system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle-based unit of the tire parameter sensing system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a wheel assembly having a tire-based unit mounted to a rim of the wheel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a portion of the tire parameter sensing system constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the tire-based unit of FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the tire-based unit of FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a portion of the tire parameter sensing system constructed in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the tire-based unit of FIG. 8 .
- FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle 10 including a tire parameter sensing system 12 constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the vehicle 10 of FIG. 1 is an automobile having four tires 16 , 18 , 20 , and 22 .
- the present invention can be used with vehicles having a number of tires other than four.
- FIG. 1 illustrates tire 16 at a front left corner location of the vehicle 10 .
- Tire 18 is located at a front right corner location of the vehicle 10 .
- Tire 20 is located at a rear left corner location of the vehicle 10 and tire 22 is located at a rear right corner location of the vehicle 10 .
- the tire parameter sensing system 12 includes four tire-based units 34 , 36 , 38 , and 40 , a vehicle-based unit 42 , and four power transmitting antennas 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 .
- Each tire 16 , 18 , 20 , and 22 of the vehicle 10 includes an associated tire-based unit 34 , 36 , 38 , and 40 , respectively, for sensing at least one parameter, e.g., pressure, temperature, etc., of the tire and for providing a tire parameter signal 54 , 56 , 58 , and 60 , respectively, to the vehicle-based unit 42 .
- the tire parameter signals 54 , 56 , 58 , and 60 are indicative of the sensed parameter(s) of the tires 16 , 18 , 20 , and 22 , respectively.
- the tire parameter signals 54 , 56 , 58 , and 60 are radio frequency (“RF”) signals.
- Each of the tire-based unit 34 , 36 , 38 , and 40 has an associated one of the power transmitting antennas 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 .
- power transmitting antenna 44 is associated with tire-based unit 34
- power transmitting antenna 46 is associated with tire-based unit 36
- power transmitting antenna 48 is associated with tire-based unit 38
- power transmitting antenna 50 is associated with tire-based unit 40 .
- each of the power transmitting antennas 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 is located in a wheel well of the vehicle 10 adjacent the tire 16 , 18 , 20 , or 22 having the tire-based unit 34 , 36 , 38 , or 40 with which the power transmitting antenna is associated.
- the power transmitting antennas 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 are operatively coupled to the vehicle-based unit 42 and are actuatable for producing magnetic fields.
- the power transmitting antennas 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 may have any known structure for producing the magnetic fields.
- FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the power transmitting antenna 44 .
- the power transmitting antennas 46 , 48 , and 50 may have the same structure and operate in the same manner at power transmitting antenna 44 .
- the power transmitting antenna 44 of FIG. 5 includes a winding 66 and an air core.
- the power transmitting antenna 44 is mounted in a wheel well 68 located at the front left corner location of the vehicle 10 .
- the power transmitting antenna 44 of FIG. 5 is located in the wheel well 68 in a location that is radially outward of the tire 16 .
- the power transmitting antenna 44 provides the magnetic field, indicated generally by reference character M F in FIG. 5 .
- the magnetic field M F has a frequency of approximately 13 MHz.
- FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a tire-based unit of the parameter sensing system 12 of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 2 only illustrates tire-based unit 34 .
- Tire-based units 36 , 38 , and 40 may have structures similar to tire-based unit 34 and may operate in a manner similar to tire-based unit 34 .
- the tire-based unit 34 includes a housing 70 , a parameter sensing portion 72 , and an energy supplying portion 74 .
- both of the parameter sensing portion 72 and the energy supplying portion 74 are mounted to the housing 70 and the housing is open to the atmosphere of the associated tire, e.g., tire 16 .
- the parameter sensing portion 72 of the tire-based unit 34 includes a temperature sensor 78 , a pressure sensor 80 , and other sensors 82 .
- the temperature sensor 78 is operable for sensing temperature within the associated tire 16 and providing temperature signals.
- the pressure sensor 80 is operable for sensing pressure within the associated tire 16 and for providing pressure signals.
- the other sensors 82 are operable for sensing other parameters of either the associated tire 16 or the tire-based unit 34 and for providing other parameter signals indicative of the other sensed parameters.
- the other sensors 82 may include a voltage sensor for determining a supply voltage within the tire-based unit 34 .
- the parameter sensing portion 72 of the tire-based unit 34 also includes a controller 84 .
- the controller 84 is preferably a microcomputer. Alternatively, the controller 84 may be formed from discrete circuitry, an application-specific-integrated-circuit (“ASIC”), or any other type of control circuitry.
- the controller 84 is operatively coupled to the temperature sensor 78 , the pressure sensor 80 , and the other sensors 82 and receives the temperature signals, the pressure signals, and the other parameter signals.
- the controller 84 performs a tire parameter sensing algorithm and outputs a message packet that includes information indicative of one or more of the sensed temperature, pressure, and other parameters. Any known tire parameter sensing algorithm may be used with the present invention.
- a memory 86 is operatively coupled to the controller 84 .
- the memory 86 may form a portion of the controller 84 .
- the memory 86 is a non-volatile memory.
- the tire parameter sensing algorithm is stored in the memory 86 .
- the memory 86 also stores an identification code for identifying the tire-based unit 34 .
- Each tire-based unit 34 , 36 , 38 , and 40 has a unique associated identification code.
- the controller 84 includes the identification code in the output message packet.
- the parameter sensing portion 72 of the tire-based unit 34 also includes signal transmitting circuitry 90 .
- the signal transmitting circuitry 90 is operatively coupled to the controller 84 and includes circuitry, such as a radio frequency (“RF”) amplifier (not shown) and other known circuitry, for transmitting the parameter signal 54 via a transmitting antenna 92 .
- the signal transmitting circuitry 90 receives message packets from the controller 84 and transmits the message packets in the tire parameter signals 54 .
- the message packets are modulated onto a constant frequency carrier signal using known modulation techniques, such as, for example, amplitude shift keying (“ASK”).
- ASK amplitude shift keying
- Other signal modulation techniques such as frequency shift keying, phase shift keying, etc., are also contemplated by the present invention.
- the energy supplying portion 74 of the tire-based unit 34 includes an energy receiving antenna 96 and rectifying and regulating circuitry 98 .
- the energy receiving antenna 96 is a coil, as is shown in FIG. 6 .
- Electrical energy i.e., a voltage and a current
- the magnetic field M F is produced by alternating current.
- the polarity of the magnetic field M F alternates with the polarity of the alternating current.
- the electrical energy induced in the energy receiving antenna 96 also has an alternating current.
- the rectifying and regulating circuitry 98 receives the electric energy from the energy receiving antenna 96 , converts the alternating current of the received electrical energy into direct current, and outputs electrical energy having a regulated direct current.
- the rectifying and regulating circuitry 98 provides the rectified and regulated electrical energy to an energy storage device (not shown), such as a capacitor, which provides the electrical energy to the controller 84 of the parameter sensing portion 72 of the tire-based unit 34 .
- FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the vehicle-based unit 42 of the tire parameter sensing system 12 of FIG. 1 .
- the vehicle-based unit 42 includes a receiving antenna 102 that is coupled to signal receiving circuitry 104 .
- the signal receiving circuitry 104 receives tire parameter signals, e.g., parameter signal 54 ( FIG. 1 ), from the receiving antenna 102 .
- the signal receiving circuitry 104 includes signal conditioning circuitry (not shown), such as filters, amplifiers, etc.
- the signal receiving circuitry 104 also includes signal demodulating circuitry (not shown) for demodulating the received tire parameter signals and for outputting message packets received in the tire parameter signals to a controller 106 of the vehicle-based unit 42 .
- the controller 106 of the vehicle-based unit 42 is preferably a microcomputer.
- the controller 106 may be formed from discrete circuitry, an application-specific-integrated-circuit (“ASIC”), or any other type of control circuitry.
- ASIC application-specific-integrated-circuit
- the controller 106 also performs a tire parameter sensing algorithm.
- the controller 106 upon receiving a message packet from the signal receiving circuitry 104 , determines whether the message packet originated in one of the tire-based units 34 , 36 , 38 , or 40 ( FIG. 1 ) of the tire parameter sensing system 12 . To determine whether the message packet originated in one of the tire-based units 34 , 36 , 38 , or 40 , the controller 106 compares the identification code received in the message packet to identification codes stored in a memory 108 associated with the controller 106 .
- the memory 108 is a non-volatile memory that includes a lookup table having the identification codes of the tire-based units 34 , 36 , 38 , and 40 of the tire parameter sensing system 12 .
- the lookup table may also include associated location information for each tire-based unit 34 , 36 , 38 , and 40 .
- the look-up table stored in memory 108 may associate the identification code of tire-based unit 34 with the front left corner location of the vehicle 10 .
- the controller 106 determines that the received message packet did not originate from one of the tire-based units 34 , 36 , 38 , or 40 , the controller 106 ignores the message packet.
- the controller 106 determines that the received message packet did originate from one of the tire-based units 34 , 36 , 38 , or 40 , the controller 106 analyzes the tire parameter information received in the message packet, i.e., the information indicating the temperature, the pressure, and/or the other sensed parameters.
- the controller 106 after analyzing the tire parameter information received in the message packet, outputs display signals to a display 112 .
- the display 112 is located in the occupant compartment of the vehicle 10 and is operatively coupled to the controller 106 .
- the display 112 is responsive to receipt of display signals for providing an indication of the tire parameter information and, optionally, the associated corner location.
- the display 54 may provide an indication of sensed tire temperatures and sensed tire pressures for each of the tires 16 , 18 , 20 , and 22 .
- the vehicle-based unit 42 also includes a power source 114 .
- the power source 114 of the vehicle-based unit 42 provides electrical power to the controller 106 for powering the vehicle-based unit.
- the power source 114 preferably includes the battery of the vehicle 10 and an appropriate voltage regulator (not shown).
- the power source 114 is also connected to a direct current (“DC”) to alternating current (“AC”) converter 116 , such as an oscillator.
- the DC to AC converter 116 outputs electrical energy having an alternating current to relay circuitry 118 .
- the relay circuitry 118 includes four relay switches (not shown) and is also operatively connected to the controller 106 .
- the controller 106 controls the opening and closing of the four relay switches of the relay circuitry 118 .
- Output wires 122 , 124 , 126 , and 128 connect the relay circuitry 118 to the power transmitting antennas 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 , as is shown in FIG. 1 .
- Figs. 1 and 3 schematically illustrate the output wires 122 , 124 , 126 , and 128 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate that these are wire pairs.
- FIG. 5 illustrates output wire 122 forming the winding 66 of the power transmitting antenna 44 .
- Each output wire 122 , 124 , 126 , and 128 has an associated relay switch of the relay circuitry 118 .
- the controller 106 controls the relay circuitry 118 to close a relay switch, electrical energy having an alternating current is supplied to the power transmitting antenna 44 , 46 , 48 , or 50 that is associated with the closed relay switch.
- the power transmitting antennas 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 are responsive to the alternating current for producing magnetic fields.
- the relay circuitry 118 may receive electrical energy having a direct current and multiple DC to AC converters may be located in series with the output wires 122 , 124 , 126 , and 128 for converting the alternating current to direct current.
- the multiple DC to AC converters may be located either at the vehicle-based unit 42 or remote from the vehicle-base unit, such as near the power transmitting antennas 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 .
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of tire 16 mounted to a rim 140 .
- the tire-based unit 34 is mounted to a rim 140 and within a cavity 142 of tire 16 .
- Tire-based units 36 , 38 , and 40 may have similar mounting conditions on similar rims that are associated with tires 18 , 20 , and 22 , respectively.
- the rim 140 is formed from a magnetically conductive material, preferably, a metal.
- the rim 140 includes an annular base wall 144 having an outer surface 148 .
- Inner and outer bead flanges 150 and 152 are located on opposite sides of the base wall 144 .
- a drop well 156 extends into the base wall 144 from the outer surface 148 .
- the drop well 156 extends circumferentially around the rim 140 and includes a lower surface 160 and opposite side surfaces 166 and 168 . Each of the lower surface 160 and the side surfaces 166 and 168 is also magnetically conductive.
- a depth of the drop well 156 which is defined as the radial distance between the outer surface 148 of the base wall 144 and the lower surface 160 , is greater than a height of the housing 70 of the tire-based unit 34 , as is shown in FIG. 6 .
- the tire 16 includes a tread portion 172 and opposite side walls 174 and 176 .
- the side walls 174 and 176 of the tire 16 terminate at ends opposite the tread portion 172 with bead portions 178 and 180 , respectively.
- bead portion 178 seats in bead flange 150 and bead portion 180 seats in bead flange 152 .
- ends of the bead portions 178 and 180 contact the outer surface 148 of base wall 144 of the rim 140 .
- the tire 16 and the rim 140 collectively form a wheel assembly 186 .
- FIG. 5 illustrates the wheel assembly 186 , which includes tire 16 and rim 140 , mounted to the vehicle 10 in the wheel well 68 .
- the power transmitting antenna 44 is also located in wheel well 68 in a location adjacent the wheel assembly 186 and radially outward of the rim 140 and the tire 16 .
- the power transmitting antenna 44 produces the magnetic field M F .
- a central axis of the winding 66 of the power transmitting antenna 44 is normal to the axis of the rim 140 and pointing generally toward the center of the rim 140 .
- the rim 140 alters the path of the magnetic flux of the magnetic field M F , as compared to when the wheel well 68 is empty.
- the magnetically conductive surfaces of the rim 140 act to guide the magnetic flux of the magnetic field M F on the surfaces of the rim.
- the magnetic flux of the magnetic field M F becomes concentrated on the outer surface 148 of the base wall 144 of the rim 140 and on the surfaces 160 , 166 , and 168 of the drop well 156 of the rim.
- a path of the magnetic flux extends circumferentially around the rim 140 .
- FIG. 5 illustrate the path of the magnetic flux of the magnetic field M F around the circumference of the rim 140 .
- the path of the magnetic flux extends around the rim 140 in a direction tangential to the outer surface 148 of the base wall 144 and tangential to the lower surface 160 of the drop well 156 .
- the tire-based unit 34 is mounted in the drop well 156 of the rim 140 in a location adjacent at least one of the side surfaces 166 and 168 of the drop well.
- the energy receiving antenna 96 is located adjacent the lower surface 160 and at least one of the side surfaces 166 and 168 of the drop well 156 .
- the energy receiving antenna 96 is located adjacent the lower surface 160 and side surface 168 of the drop well 156 . Since the magnetic flux is most concentrated on the metal surfaces of the rim 140 , the energy receiving antenna 96 should be positioned as near the surfaces as possible, while remaining electrically insulated from the metal surfaces of the rim.
- the energy receiving antenna 96 is a coil that is wound about a central axis A, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 .
- the axis A of the energy receiving antenna 96 extends in a direction parallel to the outer surface 148 of the base wall 144 of the rim 140 , in a direction parallel to the lower surface 160 of the drop well, and in a direction parallel to the path of the magnetic flux relative to the rim 140 .
- the axis A of the energy receiving antenna 96 also extends in a direction parallel to side surface 168 of the drop well 156 of the rim 140 .
- the electrical energy induced in the energy receiving antenna 96 is proportional to the concentration of the magnetic flux passing through the antenna.
- the magnetically conductive rim 140 is placed in the magnetic field M F , the magnetic flux becomes concentrated on the surfaces 148 , 160 , 166 , and 168 of the rim 140 .
- magnetic flux is guided to the energy receiving antenna 96 .
- the energy receiving antenna 96 is positioned adjacent to and parallel with two of the surfaces, e.g., surfaces 160 and 168 as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , magnetic flux will be guided through the entire length of the energy receiving antenna 96 .
- a sufficiently large amount of electrical energy for powering the tire-based unit 34 is induced in the energy receiving antenna 96 .
- FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a portion of the tire parameter sensing system constructed in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the structures of FIG. 8 that are the same or similar to those shown and discussed with reference to FIGS. 1-7 are labeled with the same reference numbers.
- FIG. 8 illustrates the power transmitting antenna 44 in the wheel well 68 located at the front left corner location of the vehicle 10 .
- the power transmitting antenna 44 includes a winding 66 and an air core.
- the power transmitting antenna 44 is mounted in the wheel well 68 at a location axially adjacent to the rim 140 , relative to an axis X of the rim 140 .
- the winding 66 of the power transmitting antenna 44 is positioned relative to the rim 140 so that a central axis of the winding 66 extends across the rim 140 in a direction parallel to the axis X of the rim.
- the power transmitting antenna 44 provides the magnetic field, indicated generally by reference character M F .
- FIG. 8 also illustrates a cross-sectional view of tire 16 mounted to a rim 140 .
- the tire-based unit 34 is mounted to in a drop well 156 of the rim 140 .
- the rim 140 is formed from a magnetically conductive material, preferably, a metal.
- the rim 140 alters the path of the magnetic flux of the magnetic field M F , as compared to when the wheel well 68 is empty.
- the rim 140 acts as a field guide for the magnetic flux of the magnetic field M F .
- the arrows of FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the path of the magnetic flux of the magnetic field M F when the power transmitting antenna 44 is located axially adjacent to the rim 140 , as is shown in FIG. 8 .
- the path of the magnetic flux extends across the surfaces 148 , 160 , 166 , and 168 of the rim 140 in a direction generally perpendicular to the circumference of the rim 140 .
- the tire-based unit 34 is mounted in the drop well 156 of the rim 140 so that the central axis A of the energy receiving antenna 96 extends parallel to the path of the magnetic flux across the surfaces 148 , 160 , 166 , and 168 of the rim 140 .
- the tire-based unit 34 is also mounted in the drop well 156 so that-the energy receiving antenna 96 is located adjacent the lower surface 160 of the drop well 156 and at least one of the side surfaces 166 and 168 of the drop well.
- FIG. 9 illustrates the tire-based unit 34 mounted in the drop well 156 so that the energy receiving antenna 96 is adjacent to the lower surface 160 of the drop well and side surface 166 .
- FIG. 9 illustrates the tire-based unit 34 mounted in the drop well 156 so that the energy receiving antenna 96 is adjacent to the lower surface 160 of the drop well and side surface 166 .
- an end of the energy receiving antenna 96 is adjacent side surface 166 of the drop well 156 .
- the central axis A of the energy receiving antenna 96 extends across the rim 140 in a direction parallel to axis X ( FIG. 8 ).
- the electrical energy induced in the energy receiving antenna 96 is proportional to the concentration of the magnetic flux passing through the antenna. Positioning the energy receiving antenna 44 as illustrated in FIG. 9 enables a sufficiently large amount of electrical energy for powering the tire-based unit 34 to be induced in the energy receiving antenna 96 .
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a tire parameter sensing system for a vehicle and to an associated method. More particularly, the present invention relates to a tire parameter sensing system in which a magnetically conductive rim is used for guiding magnetic flux to an antenna that provides energy to a tire-based unit. The present invention also relates to an associated method for providing energy to a tire-based unit.
- Tire parameter sensing systems for vehicles typically include a plurality of tire-based.-units and a single vehicle-based unit. Each tire-based unit has an associated tire of the vehicle and is operative to sense at least one parameter of the tire. The sensed parameter(s) may include temperature, pressure, etc. Each tire-based unit is also operative to transmit a parameter signal indicative of the sensed parameter(s) to the vehicle-based unit. The vehicle-based unit is connected to a display. In response to receiving a parameter signal from a tire-based unit, the vehicle-based unit outputs a signal to the display. The display is responsive to the signal for displaying the sensed tire parameter(s).
- It is common for the tire-based units of a tire parameter sensing system to be battery powered. Battery powered tire-based units, however, have specific limitations, such as, for example, a limited life, a limited current supply, and a limited operating temperature range. The design of a tire parameter sensing system using battery powered tire-based units must be mindful of these limitations. As a result, it is common for a battery powered tire-based unit to transmit parameter signals only in response to a determination that a sensed parameter is outside of a desired range. For example, if the desired pressure range is 32 to 36 pounds per square inch (“psi”), the battery powered tire-based unit may transmit a parameter signal to the vehicle-based unit only when the sensed tire pressure is determined to be below 32 psi or above 36 psi. By limiting the transmissions of the parameter signal, the battery life of the battery powered tire-based unit may be extended.
- In some tire parameter sensing systems, the tire-based units do not include batteries. Tire-based units that do not include batteries may receive energy through induction. When the tire-based units receive power through induction, devices for producing a magnetic field are located adjacent the tires having the tire-based units. Each tire-based unit includes an antenna in which electrical energy is induced when the antenna is placed in the magnetic field. In order for a sufficient amount of electrical energy to be induced in the antenna at all rotational positions of the tire-based unit-relative to the magnetic field producing device, the antenna typically is a loop antenna that extends completely around the circumference of the tire.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,470,933 discloses a system in which a bead of a tire forms the antenna of the tire-based unit. The bead of the tire extends completely around the circumference of the tire so that electrical energy will be induced at any rotational angle of the tire relative to the vehicle.
- The present invention relates to a tire parameter sensing system for sensing a parameter of a tire of a vehicle. The tire parameter sensing system comprises a power transmitting antenna that is actuatable for producing a magnetic field at a location of the tire. A rim upon which the tire is mounted has a circumferential outer surface that is contacted by the tire when the tire is mounted on the rim. At least first and second magnetically conductive surface portions of the rim form a drop well located within the outer surface. The first and second magnetically conductive surface portions are angled relative to one another. A tire-based unit senses a parameter of the tire and provides an indication of the sensed parameter. A coil antenna of the tire-based unit is responsive to the magnetic field for providing energy to the tire-based unit. The coil antenna has a central axis. The tire-based unit is mounted in the drop well of the rim so that the coil antenna is located adjacent to both the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions. The central axis of the coil antenna extends in a direction parallel to the first magnetically conductive surface portion and the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions guide magnetic flux of the magnetic field to the coil antenna.
- According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for providing energy to a tire-based unit of a tire parameter sensing system of a vehicle. The tire-based unit is associated with a tire of the vehicle. The method comprises the steps of producing a magnetic field at a location of the tire; mounting the tire upon a rim having a circumferential outer surface that is contacted by the tire and at least first and second magnetically conductive surface portions that form a drop well in the outer surface of the rim, the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions being angled relative to one another; and mounting the tire-based unit in the drop well of the rim so that a coil antenna of the tire-based unit is located adjacent to both the first and second magnetically conductive surface portions and so that a central axis of the coil antenna extends in a direction parallel to the first magnetically conductive surface portions and the first and second magnetically conductive coil portions guide magnetic flux of the magnetic field to the coil antenna.
- The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates upon reading the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle including a tire parameter sensing system constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a tire-based unit of the tire parameter sensing system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a vehicle-based unit of the tire parameter sensing system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a wheel assembly having a tire-based unit mounted to a rim of the wheel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a portion of the tire parameter sensing system constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the tire-based unit ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the tire-based unit ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a portion of the tire parameter sensing system constructed in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and -
FIG. 9 is an enlarged sectional view of a portion of the tire-based unit ofFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 1 schematically illustrates avehicle 10 including a tireparameter sensing system 12 constructed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. For illustrative purposes, thevehicle 10 ofFIG. 1 is an automobile having fourtires - The
vehicle 10 has afront 24, a rear 26, and opposite left andright sides FIG. 1 illustratestire 16 at a front left corner location of thevehicle 10. Tire 18 is located at a front right corner location of thevehicle 10. Tire 20 is located at a rear left corner location of thevehicle 10 andtire 22 is located at a rear right corner location of thevehicle 10. - The tire
parameter sensing system 12 includes four tire-basedunits unit 42, and four power transmittingantennas tire vehicle 10 includes an associated tire-basedunit tire parameter signal unit 42. The tire parameter signals 54, 56, 58, and 60 are indicative of the sensed parameter(s) of thetires - Each of the tire-based
unit power transmitting antennas FIG. 1 ,power transmitting antenna 44 is associated with tire-basedunit 34,power transmitting antenna 46 is associated with tire-basedunit 36,power transmitting antenna 48 is associated with tire-basedunit 38, andpower transmitting antenna 50 is associated with tire-basedunit 40. Preferably, each of thepower transmitting antennas vehicle 10 adjacent thetire unit - The
power transmitting antennas unit 42 and are actuatable for producing magnetic fields. Thepower transmitting antennas -
FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of thepower transmitting antenna 44. Thepower transmitting antennas power transmitting antenna 44. Thepower transmitting antenna 44 ofFIG. 5 includes a winding 66 and an air core. Thepower transmitting antenna 44 is mounted in a wheel well 68 located at the front left corner location of thevehicle 10. Thepower transmitting antenna 44 ofFIG. 5 is located in the wheel well 68 in a location that is radially outward of thetire 16. When supplied with an alternating current, thepower transmitting antenna 44 provides the magnetic field, indicated generally by reference character MF inFIG. 5 . Preferably, the magnetic field MF has a frequency of approximately 13 MHz. -
FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a tire-based unit of theparameter sensing system 12 ofFIG. 1 . For purposes of example,FIG. 2 only illustrates tire-basedunit 34. Tire-basedunits unit 34 and may operate in a manner similar to tire-basedunit 34. - The tire-based
unit 34 includes ahousing 70, aparameter sensing portion 72, and anenergy supplying portion 74. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, both of theparameter sensing portion 72 and theenergy supplying portion 74 are mounted to thehousing 70 and the housing is open to the atmosphere of the associated tire, e.g.,tire 16. - The
parameter sensing portion 72 of the tire-basedunit 34 includes atemperature sensor 78, apressure sensor 80, andother sensors 82. Thetemperature sensor 78 is operable for sensing temperature within the associatedtire 16 and providing temperature signals. Thepressure sensor 80 is operable for sensing pressure within the associatedtire 16 and for providing pressure signals. Theother sensors 82 are operable for sensing other parameters of either the associatedtire 16 or the tire-basedunit 34 and for providing other parameter signals indicative of the other sensed parameters. For example, theother sensors 82 may include a voltage sensor for determining a supply voltage within the tire-basedunit 34. - The
parameter sensing portion 72 of the tire-basedunit 34 also includes acontroller 84. Thecontroller 84 is preferably a microcomputer. Alternatively, thecontroller 84 may be formed from discrete circuitry, an application-specific-integrated-circuit (“ASIC”), or any other type of control circuitry. Thecontroller 84 is operatively coupled to thetemperature sensor 78, thepressure sensor 80, and theother sensors 82 and receives the temperature signals, the pressure signals, and the other parameter signals. Thecontroller 84 performs a tire parameter sensing algorithm and outputs a message packet that includes information indicative of one or more of the sensed temperature, pressure, and other parameters. Any known tire parameter sensing algorithm may be used with the present invention. - A
memory 86 is operatively coupled to thecontroller 84. Alternatively, thememory 86 may form a portion of thecontroller 84. Thememory 86 is a non-volatile memory. The tire parameter sensing algorithm is stored in thememory 86. Thememory 86 also stores an identification code for identifying the tire-basedunit 34. Each tire-basedunit controller 84 includes the identification code in the output message packet. - The
parameter sensing portion 72 of the tire-basedunit 34 also includessignal transmitting circuitry 90. Thesignal transmitting circuitry 90 is operatively coupled to thecontroller 84 and includes circuitry, such as a radio frequency (“RF”) amplifier (not shown) and other known circuitry, for transmitting theparameter signal 54 via a transmittingantenna 92. Thesignal transmitting circuitry 90 receives message packets from thecontroller 84 and transmits the message packets in the tire parameter signals 54. The message packets are modulated onto a constant frequency carrier signal using known modulation techniques, such as, for example, amplitude shift keying (“ASK”). Other signal modulation techniques, such as frequency shift keying, phase shift keying, etc., are also contemplated by the present invention. - The
energy supplying portion 74 of the tire-basedunit 34 includes anenergy receiving antenna 96 and rectifying and regulatingcircuitry 98. Theenergy receiving antenna 96 is a coil, as is shown inFIG. 6 . Electrical energy, i.e., a voltage and a current, is induced in theenergy receiving antenna 96 when the antenna is placed within a magnetic field MF. The magnetic field MF is produced by alternating current. The polarity of the magnetic field MF alternates with the polarity of the alternating current. As a result, the electrical energy induced in theenergy receiving antenna 96 also has an alternating current. - The rectifying and regulating
circuitry 98 receives the electric energy from theenergy receiving antenna 96, converts the alternating current of the received electrical energy into direct current, and outputs electrical energy having a regulated direct current. The rectifying and regulatingcircuitry 98 provides the rectified and regulated electrical energy to an energy storage device (not shown), such as a capacitor, which provides the electrical energy to thecontroller 84 of theparameter sensing portion 72 of the tire-basedunit 34. -
FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the vehicle-basedunit 42 of the tireparameter sensing system 12 ofFIG. 1 . The vehicle-basedunit 42 includes a receivingantenna 102 that is coupled to signal receivingcircuitry 104. Thesignal receiving circuitry 104 receives tire parameter signals, e.g., parameter signal 54 (FIG. 1 ), from the receivingantenna 102. Thesignal receiving circuitry 104 includes signal conditioning circuitry (not shown), such as filters, amplifiers, etc. Thesignal receiving circuitry 104 also includes signal demodulating circuitry (not shown) for demodulating the received tire parameter signals and for outputting message packets received in the tire parameter signals to acontroller 106 of the vehicle-basedunit 42. - The
controller 106 of the vehicle-basedunit 42 is preferably a microcomputer. Alternatively, thecontroller 106 may be formed from discrete circuitry, an application-specific-integrated-circuit (“ASIC”), or any other type of control circuitry. Thecontroller 106 also performs a tire parameter sensing algorithm. - The
controller 106, upon receiving a message packet from thesignal receiving circuitry 104, determines whether the message packet originated in one of the tire-basedunits FIG. 1 ) of the tireparameter sensing system 12. To determine whether the message packet originated in one of the tire-basedunits controller 106 compares the identification code received in the message packet to identification codes stored in amemory 108 associated with thecontroller 106. Thememory 108 is a non-volatile memory that includes a lookup table having the identification codes of the tire-basedunits parameter sensing system 12. The lookup table may also include associated location information for each tire-basedunit memory 108 may associate the identification code of tire-basedunit 34 with the front left corner location of thevehicle 10. - When the
controller 106 determines that the received message packet did not originate from one of the tire-basedunits controller 106 ignores the message packet. When thecontroller 106 determines that the received message packet did originate from one of the tire-basedunits controller 106 analyzes the tire parameter information received in the message packet, i.e., the information indicating the temperature, the pressure, and/or the other sensed parameters. - The
controller 106, after analyzing the tire parameter information received in the message packet, outputs display signals to adisplay 112. Thedisplay 112 is located in the occupant compartment of thevehicle 10 and is operatively coupled to thecontroller 106. Thedisplay 112 is responsive to receipt of display signals for providing an indication of the tire parameter information and, optionally, the associated corner location. For example, thedisplay 54 may provide an indication of sensed tire temperatures and sensed tire pressures for each of thetires - The vehicle-based
unit 42 also includes apower source 114. Thepower source 114 of the vehicle-basedunit 42 provides electrical power to thecontroller 106 for powering the vehicle-based unit. Thepower source 114 preferably includes the battery of thevehicle 10 and an appropriate voltage regulator (not shown). - The
power source 114 is also connected to a direct current (“DC”) to alternating current (“AC”)converter 116, such as an oscillator. The DC toAC converter 116 outputs electrical energy having an alternating current to relaycircuitry 118. Therelay circuitry 118 includes four relay switches (not shown) and is also operatively connected to thecontroller 106. Thecontroller 106 controls the opening and closing of the four relay switches of therelay circuitry 118. -
Output wires relay circuitry 118 to thepower transmitting antennas FIG. 1 . Figs.1 and 3 schematically illustrate theoutput wires FIG. 5 illustratesoutput wire 122 forming the winding 66 of thepower transmitting antenna 44. - Each
output wire relay circuitry 118. When thecontroller 106 controls therelay circuitry 118 to close a relay switch, electrical energy having an alternating current is supplied to thepower transmitting antenna power transmitting antennas - As an alternative to the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 3 , therelay circuitry 118 may receive electrical energy having a direct current and multiple DC to AC converters may be located in series with theoutput wires unit 42 or remote from the vehicle-base unit, such as near thepower transmitting antennas -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view oftire 16 mounted to arim 140. The tire-basedunit 34 is mounted to arim 140 and within acavity 142 oftire 16. For brevity, the mounting of only tire-basedunit 34 is discussed in detail below. Tire-basedunits tires - The
rim 140 is formed from a magnetically conductive material, preferably, a metal. Therim 140 includes anannular base wall 144 having anouter surface 148. Inner andouter bead flanges base wall 144. A drop well 156 extends into thebase wall 144 from theouter surface 148. The drop well 156 extends circumferentially around therim 140 and includes alower surface 160 and opposite side surfaces 166 and 168. Each of thelower surface 160 and the side surfaces 166 and 168 is also magnetically conductive. A depth of the drop well 156, which is defined as the radial distance between theouter surface 148 of thebase wall 144 and thelower surface 160, is greater than a height of thehousing 70 of the tire-basedunit 34, as is shown inFIG. 6 . - The
tire 16 includes atread portion 172 andopposite side walls side walls tire 16 terminate at ends opposite thetread portion 172 withbead portions tire 16 is mounted on therim 140,bead portion 178 seats inbead flange 150 andbead portion 180 seats inbead flange 152. Also, when thetire 16 is mounted on therim 140, ends of thebead portions outer surface 148 ofbase wall 144 of therim 140. Thetire 16 and therim 140 collectively form awheel assembly 186. -
FIG. 5 illustrates thewheel assembly 186, which includestire 16 andrim 140, mounted to thevehicle 10 in thewheel well 68. AsFIG. 5 illustrates, thepower transmitting antenna 44 is also located in wheel well 68 in a location adjacent thewheel assembly 186 and radially outward of therim 140 and thetire 16. When actuated by thecontroller 106 of the vehicle-basedunit 42, thepower transmitting antenna 44 produces the magnetic field MF. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a central axis of the winding 66 of thepower transmitting antenna 44 is normal to the axis of therim 140 and pointing generally toward the center of therim 140. - When the magnetically
conductive rim 140 is placed in the magnetic field MF, therim 140 alters the path of the magnetic flux of the magnetic field MF, as compared to when thewheel well 68 is empty. When therim 140 is placed in the magnetic field MF, the magnetically conductive surfaces of therim 140 act to guide the magnetic flux of the magnetic field MF on the surfaces of the rim. The magnetic flux of the magnetic field MF becomes concentrated on theouter surface 148 of thebase wall 144 of therim 140 and on thesurfaces FIG. 5 , a path of the magnetic flux extends circumferentially around therim 140. The arrows ofFIG. 5 illustrate the path of the magnetic flux of the magnetic field MF around the circumference of therim 140. The path of the magnetic flux extends around therim 140 in a direction tangential to theouter surface 148 of thebase wall 144 and tangential to thelower surface 160 of the drop well 156. - In accordance with the present invention, the tire-based
unit 34 is mounted in the drop well 156 of therim 140 in a location adjacent at least one of the side surfaces 166 and 168 of the drop well. When the tire-basedunit 34 is mounted in the drop well 156, theenergy receiving antenna 96 is located adjacent thelower surface 160 and at least one of the side surfaces 166 and 168 of the drop well 156. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 6 and 7 , theenergy receiving antenna 96 is located adjacent thelower surface 160 andside surface 168 of the drop well 156. Since the magnetic flux is most concentrated on the metal surfaces of therim 140, theenergy receiving antenna 96 should be positioned as near the surfaces as possible, while remaining electrically insulated from the metal surfaces of the rim. - The
energy receiving antenna 96 is a coil that is wound about a central axis A, as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 . In an exemplary-embodiment of the present invention, the axis A of theenergy receiving antenna 96 extends in a direction parallel to theouter surface 148 of thebase wall 144 of therim 140, in a direction parallel to thelower surface 160 of the drop well, and in a direction parallel to the path of the magnetic flux relative to therim 140. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 6 and 7 , the axis A of theenergy receiving antenna 96 also extends in a direction parallel toside surface 168 of the drop well 156 of therim 140. - The electrical energy induced in the
energy receiving antenna 96 is proportional to the concentration of the magnetic flux passing through the antenna. As set forth above, when the magneticallyconductive rim 140 is placed in the magnetic field MF, the magnetic flux becomes concentrated on thesurfaces rim 140. By mounting the tire-basedunit 34 in the drop well 156 so that theenergy receiving antenna 96 is adjacent to thelower surface 160 and at least one of the side surfaces 166 and 168 of the drop well 156, magnetic flux is guided to theenergy receiving antenna 96. When theenergy receiving antenna 96 is positioned adjacent to and parallel with two of the surfaces, e.g., surfaces 160 and 168 as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 , magnetic flux will be guided through the entire length of theenergy receiving antenna 96. As a result, a sufficiently large amount of electrical energy for powering the tire-basedunit 34 is induced in theenergy receiving antenna 96. -
FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a portion of the tire parameter sensing system constructed in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The structures ofFIG. 8 that are the same or similar to those shown and discussed with reference toFIGS. 1-7 are labeled with the same reference numbers. -
FIG. 8 illustrates thepower transmitting antenna 44 in the wheel well 68 located at the front left corner location of thevehicle 10. Thepower transmitting antenna 44 includes a winding 66 and an air core. Thepower transmitting antenna 44 is mounted in the wheel well 68 at a location axially adjacent to therim 140, relative to an axis X of therim 140. Preferably, the winding 66 of thepower transmitting antenna 44 is positioned relative to therim 140 so that a central axis of the winding 66 extends across therim 140 in a direction parallel to the axis X of the rim. When supplied with an alternating current, thepower transmitting antenna 44 provides the magnetic field, indicated generally by reference character MF. -
FIG. 8 also illustrates a cross-sectional view oftire 16 mounted to arim 140. The tire-basedunit 34 is mounted to in a drop well 156 of therim 140. Therim 140 is formed from a magnetically conductive material, preferably, a metal. - When the magnetically
conductive rim 140 is placed in the magnetic field MF, therim 140 alters the path of the magnetic flux of the magnetic field MF, as compared to when thewheel well 68 is empty. When therim 140 is placed in the magnetic field MF, therim 140 acts as a field guide for the magnetic flux of the magnetic field MF. The arrows ofFIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the path of the magnetic flux of the magnetic field MF when thepower transmitting antenna 44 is located axially adjacent to therim 140, as is shown inFIG. 8 . As illustrated inFIG. 8 , the path of the magnetic flux extends across thesurfaces rim 140 in a direction generally perpendicular to the circumference of therim 140. - In accordance with the present invention, the tire-based
unit 34 is mounted in the drop well 156 of therim 140 so that the central axis A of theenergy receiving antenna 96 extends parallel to the path of the magnetic flux across thesurfaces rim 140. The tire-basedunit 34 is also mounted in the drop well 156 so that-theenergy receiving antenna 96 is located adjacent thelower surface 160 of the drop well 156 and at least one of the side surfaces 166 and 168 of the drop well.FIG. 9 illustrates the tire-basedunit 34 mounted in the drop well 156 so that theenergy receiving antenna 96 is adjacent to thelower surface 160 of the drop well andside surface 166. InFIG. 9 , an end of theenergy receiving antenna 96 isadjacent side surface 166 of the drop well 156. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 9 , the central axis A of theenergy receiving antenna 96 extends across therim 140 in a direction parallel to axis X (FIG. 8 ). When theenergy receiving antenna 96 is positioned adjacent to the twosurfaces energy receiving antenna 96 extends in a direction parallel to thelower surface 160 of the drop well and in a direction parallel to the path of the magnetic flux on therim 140, the magnetic flux of the magnetic field MF is guided to theenergy receiving antenna 96. The electrical energy induced in theenergy receiving antenna 96 is proportional to the concentration of the magnetic flux passing through the antenna. Positioning theenergy receiving antenna 44 as illustrated inFIG. 9 enables a sufficiently large amount of electrical energy for powering the tire-basedunit 34 to be induced in theenergy receiving antenna 96. - From the above description of the invention, those skilled in the art will perceive improvements, changes and modifications. Such improvements, changes and modifications within the skill of the art are intended to be covered by the appended claims.
Claims (15)
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/789,116 US6938468B1 (en) | 2004-02-27 | 2004-02-27 | Tire parameter sensing system having a magnetically conductive rim and an associated method |
EP05004216A EP1571012A3 (en) | 2004-02-27 | 2005-02-25 | Tire parameter sensing system having a magnetically conductive rim and an associated method |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/789,116 US6938468B1 (en) | 2004-02-27 | 2004-02-27 | Tire parameter sensing system having a magnetically conductive rim and an associated method |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20050188757A1 true US20050188757A1 (en) | 2005-09-01 |
US6938468B1 US6938468B1 (en) | 2005-09-06 |
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US10/789,116 Expired - Fee Related US6938468B1 (en) | 2004-02-27 | 2004-02-27 | Tire parameter sensing system having a magnetically conductive rim and an associated method |
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US (1) | US6938468B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1571012A3 (en) |
Cited By (3)
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US20060012470A1 (en) * | 2004-07-19 | 2006-01-19 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Device for localizing a wheel electronics unit in a motor vehicle |
US20080127723A1 (en) * | 2006-11-03 | 2008-06-05 | Trw Automotive U.S. Llc | Method and apparatus for determining tire location in a tire pressure monitoring system using directional low frequency initiation |
US20090000370A1 (en) * | 2007-06-29 | 2009-01-01 | Robert Edward Lionetti | Tread depth sensing device and method for measuring same |
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US7363806B2 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2008-04-29 | Silicon Valley Micro C Corp. | Tire parameter monitoring system with inductive power source |
US20110302078A1 (en) * | 2010-06-02 | 2011-12-08 | Bryan Marc Failing | Managing an energy transfer between a vehicle and an energy transfer system |
US8849223B2 (en) * | 2012-04-30 | 2014-09-30 | Terry Pennisi | Power harvesting wireless transmitter |
US9991824B2 (en) | 2012-04-30 | 2018-06-05 | Terry Pennisi | Self powered optical system |
US9588019B2 (en) | 2012-11-06 | 2017-03-07 | Texas Research International, Inc. | Tire deformation sensor and tire inflation system |
WO2014074491A1 (en) | 2012-11-06 | 2014-05-15 | Texas Research International, Inc. | Tire deformation sensor and tire inflation system |
TWI593572B (en) * | 2016-05-23 | 2017-08-01 | 高福科技股份有限公司 | Method for operating wireless tire pressure monitoring system |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US6938468B1 (en) | 2005-09-06 |
EP1571012A2 (en) | 2005-09-07 |
EP1571012A3 (en) | 2010-03-24 |
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