Tire management system and method

A tire management system includes a control valve and a check valve. A method for managing a tire includes: determining a pressure parameter value, determining an operational parameter for a valve based on the pressure parameter value, and controlling the valve based on the operational parameter.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to the tire pressure management field, and more specifically to a new and useful system and method for electronically controlled tire pressure management.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The tire management system (TMS) can include a control valve110and a check valve120, and can optionally include an air source130and an air sink140. The TMS functions to provide an on-vehicle tire inflation system that automatically fluidly isolates a tire150from the inflation system (e.g., air source130) in the event of a system leak, but still allows controlled tire deflation during typical use. The TMS can further automatically fluidly isolate the tire150from the remainder of the fluid circuit (e.g., from other tires connected to the same fluid circuit) in the event of tire leak, but still allow controlled tire inflation during typical use.

Variants of the tire management system (TMS) and method confer several benefits over conventional tire pressure management systems and methods. First, in some variants, the check valve seals closed at a system leak (e.g. when the vehicle is in a ‘key-off’ state), isolating the system from the tire. These variants can confer the benefit of preventing tire deflation when the vehicle is parked, which further aligns with regulations regarding minimum required inflation amounts of a tire. Second, in some variants, the system deflates a tire to a target tire pressure through dithering of the control valve. These variants can confer the benefit of controllably deflating a tire without activating a check valve seal. Additionally, some variants confer the benefits of both the first and second variant, which are traditionally at odds due to the risk of sealing a check valve during traditional deflation (non-dithered), which could be dangerous to the driver as well as require intervention at the tire to unseal the check valve. Fourth, in some variants, the check valve is bidirectional. This can confer the benefit of isolating the system from the tire in the case of a system leak as well as isolating the tire from the system in the case of a tire leak (e.g. tire blowout). Fifth, in some variants, the check valve is passive and/or the control valve is non-proportional, both of which can confer the benefit of a relatively low cost of manufacture of the system.

As shown inFIG. 1, the TMS100includes a control valve110and a check valve120. The TMS100can additionally include an air source130, an air sink140, a tire150, a manifold160, a pressure sensor170, a control module180, a vehicle condition database185, and/or a mounting mechanism190. Additionally or alternatively, the TMS100can include any other suitable components. Each TMS can be connected to one or more tires150through the same or different manifold in parallel, in series, or a combination thereof. Each vehicle can include one or more TMS′100, wherein multiple TMS′ can be connected to the same or different tires. Multiple TMSs can optionally share components (e.g., control units), data (e.g., transferred from a first TMS to a second TMS), or any other suitable element.

The system can further include any or all of an air system, wherein the air system includes the following air system elements: an air source130, an air sink140, and a tire150. However, the air system can include any other suitable component.

The air source130functions to provide compressed air to a tire in a vehicle (e.g. a truck). Preferably, the compressed air is only provided to a tire when the compressed air in the air source is at a higher pressure than the air in the tire. Alternatively, the compressed air can be provided to the tire at any time. Additionally or alternatively, the air source130can function to provide compressed air to other elements in the system or vehicle (e.g. to the braking system, suspension system, etc.). Preferably, the air source130is fluidly connected to a tire, wherein the air source130transmits compressed air to the tire during tire inflation. Alternatively, the air source130can be fluidly connected to a pair of tires, all the tires in a vehicle, or any number or combination of tires. Preferably, the air source130is also fluidly connected to a compressor, wherein the air source130receives compressed air from the compressor. Additionally or alternatively, the air source130can include a compressor and/or be fluidly connected to ambient air or any other air source. Further alternatively, the air source can be fluidly connected or otherwise connected to any other component of the vehicle, an external pump, a conduit inside or outside the vehicle (e.g. hose), or any other suitable component. Preferably, the air source130is a reservoir of compressed air (e.g. a compressed air tank). Alternatively, the air source130is a reservoir of compressed fluid, a compressor, a pump, or other suitable device. Preferably, there is a single air source130in the TMS100system. Alternatively, there can be one air source130per tire in the vehicle, one air source130among multiple vehicles, or any other arrangement of the air source(s)130. Preferably, the air source130contains compressed air at all times of vehicle operation. Alternatively, the air source130can operate between one or more modes. In one variation, the modes are binary, wherein the air source130contains compressed air in one mode (e.g. when the vehicle is in a ‘key-on’ state) and contains air at atmospheric pressure in another mode (e.g. when the vehicle is in a ‘key-off’ state). In another variation, there can be any number of operational modes for the air source130.

The system can further include an air sink140, which functions to remove air from a tire in a vehicle. Preferably, air is only removed from a tire when the air in the tire is at a higher pressure than air in the air sink140. Alternatively, air can be transmitted from the tire to the air sink140at any time. Additionally or alternatively, the air sink140can function to remove air from other elements in the system or vehicle (e.g. from the engine). Preferably, the air sink140is fluidly connected to a tire, wherein air flows from the tire to the air sink140during tire deflation. Alternatively, the air sink140can be fluidly connected to a pair of tires, a set of tires, or any number or combination of tires. Preferably, the air sink140is or is fluidly connected to the ambient environment of the vehicle. Alternatively, the air sink140can be fluidly connected or otherwise connected to a filter, a reservoir/tank, a conduit inside or outside the vehicle (e.g. hose), another component of the vehicle, or any other suitable component or environment. Preferably, the air sink140is a conduit (e.g. hose). Alternatively, the air sink140is a valve, or any other suitable outlet. Preferably, there is a single air sink140in the TMS100system. Alternatively, there can be one air sink140per tire in the vehicle, one air sink140among multiple vehicles, or any other arrangement of the air sink140(s). Preferably, the air sink140permits air transmission at all times of vehicle operation. Alternatively, the air sink140can operate between one or more modes. The modes can be binary, wherein the air is open in one mode (e.g. when the vehicle is in a ‘key-on’ state) and is closed in another mode (e.g. when the vehicle is in a ‘key-off’ state). Alternatively, there can be any number of operational modes for the air source. In one example, the air sink140is configured to permit a specified rate of air flow depending on a tire pressure parameter (e.g. pressure value).

The system can further include a tire150, wherein the tire150is attached to the vehicle and functions to provide traction between the vehicle and the terrain over which the vehicle travels. Additionally or alternatively, the tire150can function to absorb shock transferred to the vehicle from the terrain, support the load of the vehicle, and/or determine the direction of vehicle travel. Preferably, the tire150is attached to the vehicle and fluidly connected to both an air source and an air sink. Alternatively, the tire150can be fluidly connected to one of an air source and an air sink, or neither an air source nor an air sink. In one variation, the tire150is fluidly connected to both an air source and an air sink with a single conduit. In another variation, the tire150is fluidly connected to an air source with a conduit and to an air sink with a separate conduit. In one example, the conduit is an axle (e.g. a pressurized axle) in a vehicle. In another example, the conduit is a hose assembly (e.g. a pressurized axle tube). Preferably, the tire150has a cylindrical shape formed by an external shell configured to retain air. Alternatively, the tire150can have a spherical shape or any other suitable shape. Preferably, the external shell is rubber (e.g. synthetic rubber, natural rubber). Alternatively, the external shell can be a fabric overlaid on a wire mesh, a carbon block compound, or any other material. Preferably, the tire150has a pattern of grooves (e.g. tread) arranged on all or part of the external shell which makes contact with the ground. In a cylindrical variation of the tire150, a tread pattern, for example, can be fabricated on the outer wall of the tire150. Alternatively, a pattern of grooves may be arranged on the entire150external shell or on any part of the external shell. In one variation, the system includes four tires150per axle168of a vehicle. In another variation, the system includes two tires150per axle of the vehicle. In other variations, the system includes a single tire150or any number of tires150, arranged in any way with relation to each other and to the vehicle.

Preferably, the tire150further comprises a tire valve151configured to provide an attachment site with which to fluidly connect the tire150to an air source and/or an air sink. Preferably the tire valve is fluidly connected to an air source or an air sink via an intermediary component (e.g. a conduit), wherein the tire valve is attached to one end of the intermediary component (e.g. a threaded tube). Alternatively, the tire valve can be directly attached to an air source and/or an air sink. Preferably, the tire valve is a poppet valve (e.g. Schrader valve). Alternatively, the tire valve can be a check valve, a spool valve, a plug valve, or any other valve. Preferably, the tire valve is configured for two-way air flow, but can alternatively be configured for one-way air flow or any number and arrangement of air flows. Preferably, the tire valve is passive, but can alternatively be actively controlled (e.g. by a control unit). Preferably, each tire150has two tire valves but can alternatively have a single tire valve or any number of tire valves.

In one variation, the tire150and/or TMS further includes a pressure sensor connected to the tire150, wherein the pressure sensor is configured to determine a pressure parameter of the tire150(e.g. pressure value of air within external shell, pressure rate of flow into/out of tire150, etc.). In one example, for instance, the pressure sensor is coupled to the tire valve, wherein the value of the pressure parameter measured by the pressure sensor is used, at least in part, to determine the operational mode of the tire valve (e.g. open, closed, open for a specified direction of flow, etc.). In a second example, the pressure sensor is connected to manifold fluidly connected to the tire interior. This manifold can be the fluid manifold fluidly connecting the tire150to the air source130, the air sink140, and/or to any other suitable endpoint, wherein the tire pressure can be measured by holding the tire valve in an open position, sealing an upstream valve, arranged between the tire and the endpoint, and measuring an interstitial pressure. However, the tire pressure can be otherwise determined.

The system can further include a manifold160, which functions to direct fluid flow between air system elements. Preferably, the fluid flow is cooperatively directed by one or more valves (e.g. control valves), but can alternatively be directed independently or by any other suitable component. Additionally or alternatively, the manifold160functions to contain (e.g. enclose, mechanically protect) one or more system components (e.g. control valves, check valves). Additionally or alternatively, the manifold160can function as a substrate for attachment of system components and/or external components.

In a first variation, variation, the manifold160is a set of one or more fluid connections, wherein the fluid connections are configured to fluidly connect an air source and an air sink to a tire. The fluid connections can be flexible, rigid, or have any suitable property. The fluid connections can be hoses, tubes, lumens (e.g., axle lumens), or be otherwise configured. In one example, one hose connects the tire to an air source while another conduit connects the tire to an air sink. In another example, one hose connects the tire to an air source while a second hose connects the tire to an air sink, wherein the first and second hoses are connected with a channel. In one variation in which the TMS is a central tire inflation system, the manifold extends from a central air source (e.g., air reservoir), through or along the axles, to the wheel ends. However, the air can be otherwise routed to the wheel ends.

In a second variation, the manifold160is a centralized air routing component that accepts auxiliary fluid connections to route air to the tires. The manifold160is preferably made of a thermoplastic (e.g., nylon or polyvinyl toluene with a 30% glass fill), but can alternatively be made of another synthetic or natural polymer, a flexible material (e.g. rubber), metal (e.g., an axle lumen, metal tube, etc.), composite material, or any other suitable material. The manifold160is preferably injection-molded, but can alternatively be milled out of a single block of material (e.g., metal, plastic), cast out of metal, composed of separate sub-components which are fastened together, or made using any combination of these or other suitable manufacturing techniques.

The manifold160preferably defines one or more ports113, which function to fluidly connect the air system elements. The port can also function to receive an external fitting and/or attachment (e.g. a threaded quick-release compressed-gas fitting, barbed fitting, hose, pressurized axle tube, etc.) that facilitates fluid connection of the port to the air system element. In one variation, each air system element has its own port. In other variations, a single port is shared among multiple air system elements. In other variations, a single air system element is connected to multiple ports. The port preferably defines a straight flow axis, but can alternatively define a curved flow path, a branched flow path (e.g., with at least a third end in addition to the first and second end), or any other suitable path along which air can flow through the port. In variations including a plurality of ports, the flow axis of each port is preferably parallel to each of the other flow axes of each of the other ports. In one example, the first and second ports are arranged with the respective flow axes sharing a common plane (port plane). However, multiple ports can be arranged offset from each other, at a non-zero angle to each other, or be arranged in any other suitable configuration.

The manifold160preferably includes a channel (galley) which functions to provide fluid connections between ports, but can be otherwise configured. The channel161preferably contains compressed air from the air source that is simultaneously accessible to each of the control valves (e.g., is connected to the control valves in parallel), but can be serially connected to the control valves or otherwise connected. The channel preferably intersects the ports between the respective first and second ends of each port, but can alternatively be connected by a secondary manifold160or otherwise connected to one or more ports of the manifold160. The channel is preferably fluidly connected to every port of the manifold160, but can alternatively be connected to a first subset of ports and fluidly isolated from a second subset of ports. In one variation, the channel connects one port to a second port. The pressure sensor is preferably fluidly connected to the channel and measures the pressure of whichever downstream element is fluidly connected to the channel, but can alternatively be arranged within a port, along a fluid connection, or be otherwise arranged. The channel preferably extends normal the port, but can alternatively extend parallel to or at any other suitable angle to the port. The channel preferably lies in the same plane as the ports, but can alternatively be offset from the port plane (e.g., lie above or below the port plane, extend at an angle to the port plane, etc.). The channel is preferably substantially linear (e.g., define a substantially linear flow axis), but can alternatively be curved (e.g., toward or away from the second end, out from the port plane, etc.) or have any other suitable configuration. However, the channel can be otherwise configured or arranged. The channel is preferably connected to an output of a filter162, but can alternatively be connected directly to an air element.

In a first embodiment, the manifold160is the manifold160in the electronically controlled vehicle suspension system in U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/384,652 filed 6 Sep. 2017, which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference. In one example, the manifold includes a first port coupled to an air source, a second port (e.g., exhaust port114) coupled to an air sink, and a third port coupled to a tire (e.g. through the tire valve), wherein the three ports are fluidly connected through a single channel. The manifold can optionally include a fourth port fluidly connected to a suspension system (e.g., air spring). However, any other suitable manifold can be used.

The control valve110functions to selectively bring a tire into fluid connection with one or more air system elements (e.g.FIGS. 3A-3D). Preferably, the control valve110is a two-way valve. Alternatively, the control valve110can be a three-way valve, or can have any number of inlets and outlets in any arrangement. Preferably, the control valve110is operable between an open position, wherein the control valve110permits fluid connection between a tire and an air system element, and a closed position, wherein the control valve110prevents fluid connection between a tire and an air system element. Preferably, the control valve110is normally in (biased toward) an open position (e.g., is a normally-open valve), but can be normally in (biased toward) a closed position (e.g., is a normally-closed valve). Preferably, the control valve110is actively controlled (e.g. by a control module), but can alternatively be passively operable. Preferably, the control valve110is an electromechanically operable valve (e.g. a solenoid valve), but can alternatively be operable in any other way. Preferably, the control valve no is a non-proportional valve, but can alternatively be a proportional valve, a servo valve, or any other type of valve. In one variation, the control valve no is the actuator as described in U.S. Provisional application No. 62/384,652 filed Sep. 6, 2017, which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference.

Preferably, the control valve no is emplaced in (e.g. arranged in) a flow path (e.g. a port) between a tire and one or more air system elements, and controls fluid flow therethrough. Preferably, the control valve110is aligned with the flow path but can alternatively be oriented at an angle with respect to the flow path, located partially or wholly outside the flow path, or otherwise arranged. Preferably the TMS has one control valve no per air system element, but can alternatively have any number of control valves no.

In one variation, the control valves no are arranged in a manifold (e.g.FIG. 4). In a first example, the control valves no are arranged in the manifold described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/384,652 filed Sep. 6, 2017, which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference, wherein the control valves no are arranged in ports, wherein each port is fluidly connected to a channel. In another example, the control valves no are arranged in a manifold without a channel, wherein the fluid connections between air system elements remain separate.

In one variation, wherein the control valves110are arranged in the manifold as described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/384,652 filed 6 Sep. 2017, which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference, wherein the manifold has a channel, there is one control valve110per air system element. For example, there is a first control valve110(e.g. intake valve in) which fluidly connects an air source to the channel, a second control valve110(e.g. exhaust valve112) which fluidly connects an air sink to the channel. The second control valve can be normally-open, such that the system is exhausted upon key-off, but can be normally closed. The first control valve can be normally-closed, such that initial system operation does not immediately pressurize the manifold, but can alternatively be normally open. The first and second control valves can selectively control the pressure in a fluidly connected third port (connected to the tire), and thereby control the tire pressure. The system can optionally include a third control valve110, which fluidly connects one or more tires to the channel. In this variation, the first and third control valves can be opened to inflate the tire, and the second and third control valves can be opened to deflate the tire. By selectively controlling the configurations of these control valves110, the tire(s) can be in fluid communication with only the air sink (e.g. during deflation), only the air source (e.g. during inflation), both the air sink and the air source, or neither the air sink nor the air source. An example of a flow path during tire deflation is illustrated inFIG. 5A. An example of a flow path during tire inflation is illustrated inFIG. 5B.

The system can further include a pressure sensor170, which functions to determine a pressure parameter value in the TMS or elsewhere in the vehicle. Preferably, the pressure sensor170is a differential pressure sensor170but can alternatively be a gauge pressure sensor170, an absolute pressure sensor170, a sealed pressure sensor170, or any other sensor configured to determine a pressure parameter. Preferably, the pressure parameter is a pressure change rate between air system elements. Alternatively, the pressure parameter can be a pressure change rate within an element, a gauge pressure within an element, a difference in gauge pressures between elements, a pressure change acceleration, or any other suitable parameter. The pressure sensor170is preferably connected to and configured to measure a pressure parameter in an air system element (e.g. an air source, a tire, an air sink), but can alternatively be configured to measure a pressure parameter in a manifold (e.g. in a channel, port, etc.), between air system elements, or elsewhere. Preferably, the pressure sensor170is a piezoelectric material, but may be any other material or combination of materials configured to determine a pressure parameter. Preferably, there is one pressure sensor170per air system element, but alternatively there may be a single pressure sensor170or any number of pressure sensors170in the system.

In one variation, a pressure sensor170is arranged in a port of a manifold, wherein the pressure sensor170port is fluidly connected to a channel and configured to determine the value of a pressure parameter in the channel. In one example, the pressure sensor170measures the absolute pressure of the compressed air in the channel. In another example, the pressure sensor170measures the pressure change rate between an air source and a tire. In alternative examples, the pressure sensor170can be arranged in any port, channel, or other part of a manifold, wherein the pressure sensor170can measure any pressure parameter associated with any air system element or combination of air system elements fluidly connected to said element.

In a second variation, the pressure sensor170is arranged within or elsewhere on an air system element. In one embodiment, a pressure sensor170is arranged within the external shell of a tire and configured to measure the absolute pressure within the tire. In a second embodiment, a first pressure sensor170is arranged within a first air system element (e.g. an air source) and a second pressure sensor170is arranged within a second air system element (e.g. a tire), wherein the pressure sensors170are each configured to determine a pressure parameter (e.g. absolute pressure), wherein these pressure parameters are further used to determine a secondary pressure parameter (e.g. pressure change rate). In one example, the secondary pressure parameter is determined using a control module. In a third embodiment (e.g.FIG. 3C), the system includes a pressure sensor170fluidly connected to and monitoring the pressure within a suspension system163(e.g., an air spring). In one example of the third embodiment, the pressure sensor170is used to determine the load in the vehicle. However, the system can include any suitable number of pressure sensors arranged in any suitable configuration.

The system can further include a control module180, which functions to control the operation of one or more valves. Additionally or alternatively, the control module180can function to control power provision to one or more valves in the system. Additionally or alternatively, the control module180can function to control the operation of or the power provision to any element or combination of elements in the system or vehicle (e.g. a pressure sensor).

The control module180is preferably electrically connected to and controls the operation (e.g. position) of one or more control valves. The control module180can store a vehicle condition database185, an error log, or any other suitable information. Alternatively, the control module180can be wirelessly connected to and control the operation of one or more control valves. The control module180is preferably a printed circuit board assembly (PCB), but can alternatively be a wire wrap circuit, a point-to-point soldered electrical circuit, or any other suitable configuration. In one variation, the control module180is configured for wireless communication, and can include short-range communication systems (e.g., NFC, Bluetooth, RF, etc.), long-range communication systems (e.g., WiFi, cellular, satellite, etc.), a vehicle networking system (e.g., CAN bus connection), or any other suitable communication system. In one example, the control module180is configured to receive instructions from a driver, a fleet command center171, or any other suitable control system.

In one variation, the control module180is configured to communicate with a remote information source (e.g. lookup table, database, server, user device164, vehicle network system, etc.), wherein the remote information source communicates commands for the operation of one or more control valves to the control module180. In one example, the remote information source communicates a set of commands for the control valves to the control module180, wherein the set of commands is determined using vehicle information such as the load (e.g., mass) value and distribution in the vehicle, the terrain conditions (e.g., current and/or anticipated), the location and orientation of the vehicle, and/or any other parameter. In another example, the remote information source is an operator at a fleet command center, wherein the operator communicates instructions to a driver through a display module coupled to the control module180.

In one variation, the control module180is an electronics module as described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/384,652 filed Sep. 6, 2017, which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference. In a second variation, the control module180is a user device (e.g. mobile phone). In a third variation, the control module180is an existing control unit (e.g. engine control unit) in the vehicle.

The system can further include a vehicle condition database185, which functions to store vehicle condition parameters, such as, but not limited to: operational parameters (e.g. operational modes for a control valve or a check valve), pressure parameters, tire condition (e.g. wear-and-tear) parameters, or any other parameter. Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle condition database185can function to inform the operation of one or more valves based on the vehicle condition parameters. For example, the vehicle condition database185can include a database, table, equation, or other data structure correlating a pressure or pressure rate differential to control valve operating instructions. In a second example, the vehicle condition database185includes a data structure (database, equation, lookup table, etc.) correlating the load magnitude and/or distribution with target tire pressures (e.g., for all or a subset of tires). In a third example, vehicle condition database185includes a data structure correlating a terrain parameter (e.g., incline, surface roughness, surface looseness, surface wetness, traction, etc.) with target tire pressures (e.g., for all or a subset of tires). However, the vehicle condition database185can include any other suitable information.

Preferably, the vehicle condition database185is communicatively coupled to a control module of the vehicle, but can additionally or alternatively be communicatively coupled to a user device of an operator of the vehicle (e.g. driver, fleet command center, etc.), or any other suitable device. The set of vehicle condition parameters preferably includes parameters related to the state of the vehicle, such as the load (magnitude, distribution, etc.) on the vehicle, vehicle ‘health’ (e.g. wear-and-tear, service reports, oil and fuel levels, etc.), and any other information related to the operation of the vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the set of vehicle condition parameters can include parameters related to the environment of the vehicle along a route, such as, but not limited to: weather conditions (e.g. temperature, precipitation), traffic conditions, terrain conditions (e.g. road incline angle, predicted road friction, etc.), or any other conditions related to the current or proposed environment of a vehicle. Preferably, the vehicle condition database185is dynamically updated but can alternatively be updated at one or more discrete times, or contain static, predetermined parameters.

In one variation, the vehicle condition database185includes a lookup table, which functions inform the operational parameters of the vehicle. To perform this function, the lookup table correlates operational modes of one or more valves in the vehicle with vehicle condition parameters. Additionally or alternatively, the lookup table can correlate operational modes of other elements of the system or vehicle (e.g. vehicle key-on/off state) with vehicle condition parameters. Preferably, the correlations are determined through one or more algorithms, but can additionally or alternatively be determined through a mathematical model, through a machine learning process, by an operator, or determined in any other suitable way. In one example, the lookup table contains a set of potential arrangements of a load on a vehicle, a target pressure parameter for each tire based on that load, and an operational mode for each valve in the system, wherein the operational mode is determined algorithmically based on the target tire pressure parameters and the current tire pressures parameters.

The check valve120functions to selectively isolate a tire from fluid connection with one or more air system elements. Preferably, the check valve120is fluidly connected to a tire and to a control valve, but can alternatively be fluidly connected just to a tire. Preferably, the check valve120is arranged upstream of a tire, but can alternatively be arranged downstream of a tire, within a tire, or otherwise arranged. The check valve120is preferably arranged downstream of one or more control valves, but can alternatively be arranged within a control valve, upstream of a control valve, or otherwise arranged. The check valve120can be passively controlled (e.g., based on pressure differentials across the valve, pressure rate changes across the valve, etc.), actively controlled by the control module, or otherwise controlled.

In a first variation, the check valve120is a one-way check valve, arranged within the fluid manifold leading to the tire. The check valve120can be unidirectional (e.g., permit fluid flow in a single direction), bidirectional (e.g., permit fluid flow in both directions), or otherwise configured. In a first embodiment, the check valve can be an unloader valve that fluidly seals (e.g., upstream, toward the system) in response to the upstream pressure (e.g., system pressure) falling below the downstream pressure (e.g., tire pressure) by a threshold amount, at a rate faster than a predetermined rate, when the downstream pressure substantially matches a target pressure (e.g., a maximum tire pressure), or when any other suitable condition is satisfied. In a second embodiment, the check valve can fluidly seal downstream, toward the tire, in response to the downstream pressure falling below the upstream pressure by a second threshold amount (e.g., equal to, less than, or more than the first threshold amount), at a rate faster than the same or different predetermined rate, or when the same or different condition is satisfied. In a third embodiment, the system can include check valves of both the first and second embodiment in-line within the fluid manifold leading to the tire.

In a second variation, the check valve120is a two-way valve, but can alternatively be a three-way valve or have any number of inlet and outlet ports. Preferably, the check valve120defines a first combined inlet/outlet port and a second combined inlet/outlet port, wherein the first combined inlet/outlet port is fluidly connected to an upstream air system element (e.g. air source) and the second combined inlet/outlet port is connected to a downstream air system element (e.g. tire). Alternatively, the first combined inlet/outlet port is located downstream of the second combined inlet/outlet port, neither combined inlet/outlet port is located downstream of the other, or they can be arranged in any other suitable way. Preferably, the check valve120is a bidirectional valve, wherein the check valve120is configured to control flow in two directions, wherein the two directions are preferably arranged opposite to each other but can alternatively be otherwise arranged. Alternatively, the check valve120controls flow in a single direction or in any number of directions. Preferably, the check valve120is operable between an open configuration, wherein the check valve120permits fluid connection between a tire and an air system element, and as many sealed configurations as there are directions in which the check valve120is configured to seal (e.g. two sealed configurations for a bidirectional valve, one sealed configuration for a unidirectional check valve120, etc.), wherein each sealed configuration prevents fluid connection in a specified direction between a tire and an air system element. Alternatively, the check valve120may be operable in only one or more sealed configurations, only an open configuration, or in any combination of open and sealed configurations.

Preferably, the check valve120is in a first sealed configuration (e.g.FIG. 7B) when a pressure parameter value associated with a second combined inlet/outlet port exceeds a pressure parameter value associated with a first combined inlet/outlet port by a first predetermined threshold, herein referred to as the first sealing pressure. Alternatively, the check valve120is normally in a first sealed configuration, is only in a first sealed configuration for a specified range of pressure parameter values, is never in a first sealed configuration, or is in a first sealed configuration at any other time. Preferably, the check valve120is in a second sealed configuration (e.g.FIG. 7D) when a pressure parameter value associated with a first combined inlet/outlet port exceeds a pressure parameter value associated with a second combined inlet/outlet port by a second predetermined threshold, herein referred to as the second sealing pressure. Alternatively, the check valve120is normally in a second sealed configuration, is only in a second sealed configuration for a specified range of pressure parameter values, is never in a second sealed configuration, or is in a second sealed configuration at any other time. Preferably, the first and second sealing pressures are equal, but can alternatively be different (e.g., the first higher than the second). In one example, the system enters a sealed configuration when the downstream pressure (e.g., tire pressure) drops below the upstream pressure (e.g., system pressure) beyond a threshold difference or faster than a threshold rate, such as in the case of a tire blowout (e.g.FIG. 7B). In this example, the check valve seals toward the second inlet/outlet port, and functions to isolate the tire from the rest of the system. In another example, the system enters a sealed configuration when the upstream pressure (e.g., system pressure) drops below the downstream pressure (e.g., tire pressure) beyond a threshold difference or faster than a threshold rate, such as when the vehicle is in a key-off state to prevent tire deflation (e.g.FIG. 7D) while the vehicle is parked or when the compressor is turned off. In this example, the check valve seals toward the first inlet/outlet port, and functions to isolate the system from the tire. Preferably, the check valve120is in an open configuration (e.g.FIGS. 7A and 7C) when the difference between a pressure parameter value associated with a first combined inlet/outlet port and a pressure parameter value associated with a second combined inlet/outlet port is below both the first and second sealing pressures. Alternatively, the check valve120is in an open configuration when the different in pressure parameter values is only below a single sealing pressure, when the difference in pressure parameter values is zero, check valve120is normally in a first sealed configuration, when the difference in pressure parameter values is within a specified range, or at any other time. Preferably, the operation of the check valve120is passively controlled but can alternatively be actively controlled (e.g. by a control module).

In one variation, the operational mode of the check valve120further includes a partially sealed configuration, wherein fluid flow within the valve is partially restricted. In one example, the degree of flow restriction is proportional to the difference in pressure parameter values between valve ports.

Preferably, the check valve120(e.g.FIG. 6) includes a closing element121, wherein engagement of the closing element121with an inlet/outlet port of the check valve120functions to restrict or prevent flow through that inlet or outlet port. Alternatively, the check valve120can include no closing element121, two closing elements121, or any number of closing elements121. Preferably, the closing element121is a poppet, but can alternatively be a ball, disk, diaphragm, gate, or any other element. Preferably, the closing element121is rubber, but can alternatively be metal, plastic, glass, compressed fluid, or any suitable material. The inlets and outlets of the check valve120are preferably conically tapered to retain the closing element121; alternatively, the check valve120can have inlets and outlets with uniform cross sections or any other suitable cross section. The check valve120preferably further includes a compressive element122, wherein the compressive element122functions to press a closing element121against an inlet or an outlet port of the valve in the closed configuration. Alternatively, the check valve120can include only closing elements121. Preferably the compressive element122is a spring but can alternatively be a piston, a column of compressed air, or any other suitable element. Preferably each compressive element122in the check valve120has the same compressive value (e.g. spring constant), but can alternatively have different compressive values. Preferably, all the elements of the check valve120are enclosed within a single housing123(e.g., as shown inFIG. 6) but can alternatively be split among multiple housings123or not enclosed in any housing123.

Preferably, the check valve120is arranged in alignment with a flow axis between a tire and an air system element. Alternatively, the check valve120may be arranged with an offset to the flow axis, arranged at an angle with respect to the flow axis, or otherwise arranged.

In one variation, the check valve120includes one closing element and two compressive elements. In one example, a first closing element is coupled to the first inlet/outlet port, a second closing element is coupled to the second inlet/outlet port, and the closing element is arranged between the two compressive elements.

In a second variation, the check valve120includes two closing elements and two compressive elements. In one example, the closing elements are arranged closest to the check valve120inlet/outlet ports with the compressive elements arranged between the closing elements.

In a third variation, the check valve120is a set of two or more unidirectional check valves120. In one example, the unidirectional check valves120are arranged in series. In another example, the unidirectional check valves120are arranged in parallel.

The system can further include a mounting assembly, wherein the mounting mechanism190functions to connect all or part of the system to a vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting mechanism190can function to enclose any or all parts of the system, as well as other elements of a vehicle. The mounting mechanism190is preferably attached at a wheel assembly of a vehicle but can alternatively can be attached at any part of the vehicle (e.g. a manifold). The mounting mechanism190is preferably attached at the wheel assembly of a vehicle, wherein the wheel assembly includes a hubcap195and a tire, but can alternatively be attached elsewhere in or on a vehicle. The mounting mechanism190is preferably configured to be retrofittable, wherein the mounting mechanism190can be attached to existing attachment sites of the vehicle (e.g. a port on a hubcap195of the vehicle), but can alternatively require additional components for attachment, can integrated with the vehicle during manufacture, or integrated in any other suitable way.

The mounting mechanism190preferably includes a mounting conduit196, wherein the mounting conduit196functions to fluidly connect the mounting mechanism190to the air system of the vehicle. The mounting conduit196is preferably connected to an axle of a vehicle (e.g. with a barbed press-in interface), but can alternatively be connected to a hose running through an axle, a conduit outside of an axle, or to any other suitable element. The mounting conduit196is preferably a cylindrical shell (e.g. hose, tube), but can alternatively have an obloid cross section, a non-uniform cross section throughout its length, or any other suitable geometry. The mounting conduit196is preferably metal, but can alternatively be plastic, rubber, or any other suitable material. There is preferably one mounting conduit196per mounting assembly, but can alternatively be one mounting conduit196per air system element, one mounting conduit196per subset of air system elements, or any number and arrangement of mounting conduits. The mounting conduit196is preferably always open but can alternatively be partially open, partially or fully closed, or operate in any number and type of operational modes.

The mounting mechanism190can further include an attachment piece191, which functions to connect the mounting conduit to an axle of the vehicle. Preferably, the attachment piece191is configured to prevent relative rotation between the axle and the mounting conduit but can alternatively allow partial or full rotation between the axle and the mounting conduit. In one variation, the attachment piece191is a barbed press-in interface with spring clamp retention (e.g.FIG. 10. However, the system can include any other suitable attachment piece191.

The mounting mechanism190can further include a rotational assembly192, which functions to provide a fluid connection between the mounting mechanism190and the tire of a vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the rotational assembly192can function to enclose one or more check valves or other components. The rotational assembly192preferably attaches to a tire at one or tire valves (e.g. Shrader valve), but can alternatively be fluidly connected with one or more tires in any suitable way. The rotational assembly192preferably connects to the rest of the mounting mechanism190at hubcap195, but can alternatively connect to the rest of the mounting mechanism190at any other part of a wheel assembly. The rotational assembly192preferably includes a series of conduits193arranged perpendicular to the mounting conduit. Alternatively, the rotational assembly conduits193can be arranged at an angle with respect to the mounting conduit or in any other suitable arrangement. The rotational assembly192is preferably metal, but can alternatively be plastic, rubber, or any other suitable material. Preferably, the rotational assembly192is configured to rotate with the wheel assembly but can alternatively be configured to rotate with an offset to the wheel assembly, to not rotate at all, or to rotate in any other way. Preferably, one or more check valves is arranged in each conduit of the rotational assembly192, wherein the check valves are aligned with the flow axis defined by the conduit. Alternatively, there may be no check valves arranged within a conduit, or the check valves may be aligned at an angle with the conduit.

The rotational assembly192can further include a rotary union194, wherein the rotary union194functions to fluidly connect the rotational assembly192and the mounting conduit, wherein the rotary union194is configured to preserve a fluid connection between two elements having a relative rotation with each other. Preferably, the rotary union194is aligned with the flow axis of the mounting mechanism190but can alternatively be aligned with a flow axis of the rotational assembly or otherwise arranged. In one example, the rotary union194rotates about a stator197(e.g., mounting conduit), wherein the stator197can remain static relative to the vehicle frame. The stator197can terminate before, at, or beyond the bearing plane of the rotary union. The stator197is preferably fluidly connected (e.g., along an end, through axial holes, etc.) to the tire conduit (e.g., fluid connection extending between the stator and the tire interior), which can be supported by and/or statically mounted to the rotary union, to a wheel, to the hub, or to any other suitable rotatable wheel component. The tire conduit can be a T-junction (e.g., wherein each arm can be connected to a tire), a cable, or be any other suitable fluid connection to the tire. The tire conduit can be arranged external the wheel hub, within the wheel hub, integrated with the hub, or otherwise arranged. The check valve is preferably arranged within the tire conduit, but can be arranged elsewhere.

In one variation, the rotary union194is configured to allow for misalignment, runout, and/or any other offset between the mounting conduit and the rotational assembly. An example of a rotary union194configured to allow for misalignment is shown inFIG. 12.

In one variation, the rotary union194further includes one or more seals166and one or more bearings167that function to fluidly seal the stator-tire conduit interface and facilitate assembly rotation relative to the mounting conduit. In one example, the rotary union194has a seal arranged around the surface of the mounting conduit, wherein the seal is arranged next to a bearing (e.g.FIG. 10). In another example, the rotary union has a seal (e.g. an elastomer seal) arranged between an inner and outer bearing (e.g.FIG. 11).

The rotational assembly192can further include any number and arrangement of additional components, such as but not limited to: seals, bearings, retaining rings, attachment pieces, purge channels, and housings.

In one variation, the mounting mechanism190is arranged in a tee assembly165(e.g.FIG. 8), wherein the rotational assembly192is arranged along a single axis, which is oriented perpendicular to mounting conduit. In one example, shown inFIG. 8, the rotational assembly attaches to two tire valves. In another example, the rotational assembly attaches to one tire valve. In another example, shown inFIG. 9, the mounting mechanism is configured to interface with hubcaps having a 1.125-inch vent with a radial O-ring seal, the radial O-ring seal having a threaded interface to all locking and rigid clamps to interface with varying hubcap thicknesses.

The method for managing a tire functions to enable dynamic control of air flow into and out of a tire. As shown inFIG. 2, the method includes: determining a pressure parameter value S200, determining an operational parameter for a valve based on the pressure parameter value S210, and controlling the valve based on the operational parameter S220. The method can further include communicating the state of the system to a remote entity S230.

The method is preferably performed by, using, and/or in cooperation with the tire management system described above. However, the method can alternatively be performed using any other suitable tire or vehicle management system, such as that disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/384,652 filed Sep. 6, 2017, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference. Additionally or alternatively, the method can be performed with a user device, a remote computing system (e.g. a server), or any other suitable computing system.

In one example, the method includes: determining a target deflated tire pressure; dynamically cycling a control valve, fluidly connected between the tire and an air sink, between an open and closed position (e.g., in situ, while the vehicle is in motion); monitoring a pressure change rate when the control valve is in the open position; determining control valve cycling parameters (e.g., cycling frequency, open duration) based on the pressure change rate; cycling the control valve according to the cycling parameters until the current tire pressure substantially matches the target tire pressure; and in response to upstream system exhaustion (e.g., pressure drop beyond a threshold rate), automatically (e.g., passively or actively) sealing a check valve arranged within a fluid manifold between the control valve and the tire. Alternatively, the cycling parameters can be predetermined. This example can optionally include determining an instantaneous tire pressure; determining a deflation duration based on the cycling parameters and the difference between the target tire pressure and the instantaneous tire pressure; and cycling the control valve for the deflation duration. A similar process can be used to inflate the tire in-situ, wherein the control valve can be fluidly connected between the tire and a pressurized air source.

3.1 Determining a Pressure Parameter Value.

Preferably, more than one pressure parameter value is determined at a given time. Alternatively, a single pressure parameter value or no pressure parameter value can be determined. Preferably, the pressure parameter value is determined at an air system element (e.g. a tire). Additionally or alternatively, the pressure parameter value (e.g. pressure change rate) is determined between air system elements, between an air system element and another element (e.g. atmosphere), between any suitable elements in a vehicle, or at a remote location (e.g. cloud-based server, fleet command center, etc.). Further alternatively, the pressure parameter value can be determined at any of the locations described above, or at any other suitable location. In one variation, the pressure parameter value in a manifold is determined (e.g. from a pressure sensor coupled to the channel of the manifold).

Determining a pressure parameter value can additionally or alternatively be performed by or in conjunction with a control module (e.g. processor). In one variation, the pressure parameter value is determined through a calculation. In one example, the pressure parameter value is calculated as the difference between two or more pressure parameter values, wherein the two or more pressure parameter values are taken at different times and/or at different locations in the system. In another variation, the pressure parameter value is estimated using an algorithm of the control module (e.g. a machine learning algorithm). In another variation, the pressure parameter value is approximated from another pressure parameter value (e.g. a pressure parameter value determined earlier) based on predetermined thresholds and/or models.

The method can further include dynamically determining, monitoring, and or/recording a pressure parameter value.

In one variation, a pressure parameter value is determined after activating a specified set of operational modes for one or more control valves, wherein the operation of the control valves functions to selectively isolate elements coupled to those control valves from contributing to the pressure parameter value. In one example, for instance, a pressure parameter value for the tire alone is measured in the channel by assigning a closed configuration to the control valves arranged between the channel and any element other than a tire.

3.2 Determining an Operational Parameter for a Valve Based on the Pressure Parameter Value.

Preferably, the operational parameter is determined by a control module (e.g. microcontroller), wherein the control module is coupled to one or more valves. Alternatively, the operational parameter is determined from a remote information source (e.g. lookup table) as described above, calculated in conjunction with a remote server, predetermined by the system, predicted using machine learning, determined in accordance with another operational parameter, determined using any of the methods in S200, or otherwise determined.

S210is preferably performed after S200, but can alternatively be performed before S200, wherein S200serves as a check to see if the rest of the method can be eliminated in the absence of S200(e.g. when the operational parameters are predetermined), for instance.

In one variation, an operational parameter is determined based on a target pressure parameter value. In a first example, for instance, when the target tire pressure is higher than the current tire pressure, a control valve is assigned to operate in an open configuration, wherein the open configuration permits air flow from an air source to the tire. In a second example, wherein the pressure change rate over time is found to be constant, all the control valves in the system are assigned to operate in an open configuration.

In a second variation, the operational parameter includes a temporal component (e.g. a specified frequency, duration, etc.). In one example, the operational parameter for a control valve prescribes that the control valve alternates between an open and a closed configuration with a prescribed pulsing frequency during tire inflation (e.g.FIG. 7A), tire deflation (e.g.FIG. 7C), or at any other time. This operational parameter, wherein the control valve alternates between operational modes, can, for instance, maintain a low pressure differential across a check valve and function to prevent the check valve from sealing, wherein the check valve is in fluid communication with the control valve. In a second example, the operational parameter for a control valve prescribes an operational mode and a duration for which the operational mode will be assigned to the control valve. The specific duration can, for instance, be dynamically determined based on the magnitude of one or more pressure parameter values (e.g. magnitude of the pressure change rate at a tire). In another instance, the duration is predetermined.

The cycling frequency can be between 0.5 Hz-5 Hz, higher than 5 Hz, lower than 0.5 Hz, 2 Hz, or be any other suitable frequency. In one example, the cycling frequency and open duration per cycle can be predetermined, wherein the cycling duration can be determined based on the difference between the current tire pressure and the target tire pressure. In a second example, the larger the pressure difference between the tire and the endpoint (e.g., air source or air sink), the higher the control valve cycling frequency and shorter the open duration per cycle, wherein the cycling frequency can be lowered and/or the open duration per cycle can be shortened as the pressure difference drops. In this example, the cycling frequency and/or open duration can be selected based on the instantaneous, past, or anticipated pressure differential. In a third example, the higher the pressure change rate, the higher the control valve cycling frequency and/or shorter the open duration per cycle, wherein the cycling frequency can be lowered and/or the open duration per cycle can be shortened as the pressure change rate drops. However, the control valve operation parameters can be otherwise determined.

3.3 Controlling the Valve Based on the Operational Parameter.

Controlling the valve based on the operational parameter S220functions to activate a specified system configuration. The valves are preferably the control valves discussed above, more preferably the control valve fluidly connected to the tire port (e.g., the third control valve), but can alternatively be any other suitable valve. Preferably, the specified system configuration is selected based on one or more of: optimal tire performance, minimal tire wear-and-tear, and optimal vehicle safety, but can alternatively be predetermined or selected for in any suitable way by any suitable means.

Preferably, the valve is controlled by a control module (e.g. electronic control unit169), wherein the control module is electrically connected to the valve. Additionally or alternatively, the valve can be controlled by a control module not electrically connected to the valve (e.g. processor in a user device, remote server, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, one or more valves can be passively controlled. In one variation, a valve is mechanically controlled by a pressure differential between the valve's inlet and outlet.

Preferably, the valves are controlled based on operational parameters determined in S210, but can additionally or alternatively be operated in any suitable way. Preferably, S220is performed after S210, but can additionally or alternatively be performed at any point in the method. In one variation, S210and/or S220are performed multiple times throughout the method in order to dynamically manage tire pressure during the operation of the vehicle. The valves are preferably controlled during vehicle operation (e.g., while the vehicle is in transit, being driven, etc.), but can alternatively be controlled at any other suitable time.

3.4 Communicating the State of the System to a Remote Entity.

The method can further include communicating the state of the system to a remote entity S230, which can function to increase vehicle safety and/or optimize vehicle performance. Preferably, the remote entity is a fleet command center (e.g.FIG. 13), wherein the fleet command center manages one or more vehicles (e.g. trucks). Additionally or alternatively, the remote entity can be an operator of the vehicle (e.g. driver), a remote server198(e.g. database, lookup table), a regulatory agency, or any other entity. Preferably, S230is a form of telematics, but can alternatively be any form of telecommunication, local communication, etc. Preferably the state of the system includes pressure parameter values, but can additionally or alternatively include operational modes of one or more valves, any of the information described above, or any other information related to the operation of a vehicle.

Preferably S230is performed with a control module of the vehicle, such as any of the control modules described above. Additionally or alternatively, S230is performed with a user device (e.g. a mobile device), an interactive device in the vehicle (e.g. a touchpad, button interface, voice-activated speaker system, etc.), or with any other suitable device or communication means. Examples of the user device include a tablet, smartphone, mobile phone, laptop, watch, wearable device (e.g., glasses), or any other suitable user device. The user device can include power storage (e.g., a battery), processing systems (e.g., CPU, GPU, memory, etc.), user outputs (e.g., display, speaker, vibration mechanism, etc.), user inputs (e.g., a keyboard, touchscreen, microphone, etc.), a location system (e.g., a GPS system), sensors (e.g., optical sensors, such as light sensors and cameras, orientation sensors, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and altimeters, audio sensors, such as microphones, etc.), data communication system (e.g., a WiFi module, BLE, cellular module, etc.), or any other suitable component

Additionally, S230can be performed in conjunction with one or more sensors (e.g. pressure sensor, accelerometer, etc.). Preferably, S230is performed dynamically (e.g. continuously) during the operation of the vehicle, but can alternatively be performed a single time, two or more discrete times, at the occurrence of an event (e.g. tire pressure parameter value falls below a threshold), at the prompting of the remote entity, or at any other time.

Preferably, S230includes the transmission of information (e.g. pressure parameter values, geographic coordinates, etc.) from the vehicle to a remote entity, but can additionally or alternatively include the transmission of information (e.g. operational parameters) from a remote entity to the vehicle.

In one variation, S230includes transmitting pressure parameter values to a fleet command center. In one example, the pressure parameter values are transmitted dynamically during the operation of the vehicle. In this example, the pressure parameter values are monitored at the fleet command center. If it is determined by the fleet command center that the pressure parameter values have fallen outside of a suitable range, a notification is sent to the driver of the vehicle (e.g. through a user device). Additionally or alternatively, operational commands for the control valves are sent to a control module from the fleet command center.

The method can optionally include probing the fluid system, which functions to determine whether the check valves between the system and each tire are open. This can be particularly useful during startup, where the check valves can be closed in the upstream direction (e.g., sealing the tire from the system due to low system pressure). Probing the fluid system can include: slowly pressurizing the manifolds connected to the tires, monitoring the pressure change in the manifold over time, counting the number of pressure drops, and ceasing manifold pressurization after the number of pressure drops matches an expected number of tires on the vehicle. Probing the fluid system can optionally include: in response to detecting a sealed valve (e.g., valve sealed in the downstream or tire-side direction), generating and/or transmitting a notification to a user device. The sealed valve can be detected in response to: pressurization beyond a threshold time duration, manifold pressure exceeding a threshold pressure (e.g., less than or equal to the first or second sealing pressure), the pressure change rising faster than a threshold rate, or otherwise detected.

The method can optionally include monitoring a brake system (e.g., with a secondary pressure sensor), wherein the method is performed after the brake system has been fully pressurized. The method can optionally include monitoring a fluid suspension system's pressure (e.g., with a secondary pressure sensor), and determining (e.g., calculating, estimating, selecting, etc.) a load magnitude and/or distribution based on the fluid suspension system's pressure and/or pressure distribution across the suspension lines. The fluid within the suspension system can be: a gas, a liquid, a compressible fluid, a noncompressible fluid, a Newtonian fluid, a non-Newtonian fluid, or any other suitable fluid. In one example, the air suspension system can be fluidly connected to the same fluid circuit as the TMS, brake system, and/or any other suitable fluid system. However, the system can include any other suitable set of processes.

Although omitted for conciseness, the preferred embodiments include every combination and permutation of the various system components and the various method processes, wherein the method processes can be performed in any suitable order, sequentially or concurrently.