Patent Publication Number: US-2023161993-A1

Title: Antenna connection for integrated rfid tag and tpms sensor

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates to tires and components for tires. More particularly, the invention relates to components for tire identification and the monitoring of tire pressure. Specifically, the invention is directed to an integrated radio frequency identification tag and tire pressure monitoring system sensor that includes an antenna connection to a printed circuit board which provides secure and consistent placement and alignment of the antenna for optimum performance. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Pneumatic tires have been widely employed. Such tires include a pair of beads that are mounted on a wheel or rim. Each one of pair of sidewalls extends from a respective bead to a ground-engaging tread. A carcass, which is made of one or more plies, toroidally extends between the beads to reinforce the sidewalls and the tread. An innerliner is formed on the inside surface of the carcass. The wheel cooperates with the innerliner to define an interior or tire cavity that is inflated with air. 
     It has been desirable to provide such pneumatic tires with an electronic device that enables information about the tire to be transmitted to an external device for tracking of certain parameters and identification of the tire during its lifetime. One such electronic device is a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, sometimes referred to as an RFID tag. 
     Most RFID tags include an integrated circuit for storing and processing information and an antenna for receiving and transmitting a signal to an external reader using a radio frequency. The antenna is electronically connected to the integrated circuit and typically is carried on a substrate with the integrated circuit, such as a circuit board. 
     In the prior art, RFID tags were attached to the exterior of a sidewall of a pneumatic tire. The exterior of a tire sidewall provides a convenient location that enables strong transmission of the signal from the RFID tag to an RFID reader, which is separate from the tire. However, the RFID tag may incur potential damage when it is attached to the exterior of a tire sidewall. To reduce such potential damage, it has become desirable to attach the RFID tag to an interior structure of the tire. 
     In addition, it is desirable to monitor certain parameters, such as the pressure in the tire cavity, the temperature in the tire cavity and/or the temperature in the tread or another tire component, and to transmit data for those parameters to a device that can record and/or display the data. To this end, tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) have been developed. Many TPMS configurations employ a pressure and/or temperature sensor that is mounted to the tire, which is referred to as a TPMS sensor. Due to power and communication requirements of TPMS sensors, TPMS units have been separate from RFID tags. However, mounting of separate TPMS sensors and RFID tags in a tire is undesirable. 
     To provide more efficient mounting in a tire, an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor has been developed. The integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor includes a printed circuit board and a coil antenna that is electronically attached to the printed circuit board. In the prior art, the antenna coil has been directly placed on the printed circuit board and solder has been applied to bond the antenna to the surface of the printed circuit board. However, the efficiency and performance of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor may be significantly affected by issues encountered with the prior art attachment technique. 
     For example, it may be difficult to place the coil antenna at a repeatable, exact location on the printed circuit board, creating difficulty in installation and leading to undesirable variation in alignment and antenna length. Such variation in turn may interfere with the performance of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor. In addition, there is limited surface contact between the coil antenna and the surface of the printed circuit board for soldering, which may cause undesirable variation in the strength of the bond between the antenna and the printed circuit board and may decrease the durability of the bond. Further, when two coil antennas are mounted to the printed circuit board, the antennas are typically soldered to separate areas on the surface of the printed circuit board. The separate areas may create a different wave form contact between the two antennas, which may impair the efficiency and performance of the antennas. 
     As a result, there is a need in the art for an integrated radio frequency identification tag and tire pressure monitoring system sensor that includes an antenna connection to a printed circuit board which provides consistent placement and alignment of the antenna for optimum performance. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     According to an aspect of an exemplary embodiment of the invention, an integrated radio frequency identification tag and tire pressure monitoring system sensor includes a radio frequency identification tag. The radio frequency identification tag includes an integrated circuit, and a printed circuit board carries the integrated circuit. A tire pressure monitoring system sensor is mounted on the radio frequency identification tag. An antenna includes at least one coil antenna wire, in which the at least one antenna wire is formed in a helical shape and is electrically connected to the integrated circuit. The at least one antenna wire includes a first end that is mounted to the printed circuit board. A mechanical interlock between the first end of the antenna wire and the printed circuit board includes features that secure the first end of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board. 
     Definitions 
     “Axial” and “axially” mean lines or directions that are parallel to the axis of rotation of the tire. 
     “Axially inward” and “axially inwardly” refer to an axial direction that is toward the axial center of the tire. 
     “Axially outward” and “axially outwardly” refer to an axial direction that is away from the axial center of the tire. 
     “Circumferential” means lines or directions extending along the perimeter of the surface of the annular tread perpendicular to the axial direction. 
     “Inboard” refers to the axial inner surface of the tire as mounted on the vehicle. 
     “Innerliner” means the layer or layers of elastomer or other material that form the inside surface of a tubeless tire and that contain the inflating fluid within the tire. 
     “Outboard” refers to the axial outer surface of the tire as mounted on a vehicle. 
     “Radial” and “radially” mean lines or directions that are perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the tire. 
     “Radially inward” and “radially inwardly” refer to a radial direction that is toward the central axis of rotation of the tire. 
     “Radially outward” and “radially outwardly” refer to a radial direction that is away from the central axis of rotation of the tire. 
     “RFID” means radio frequency identification. 
     “TPMS” means a tire pressure monitoring system. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention will be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG.  1    is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary pneumatic tire with a first exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  2 A  is a plan view of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the prior art; 
         FIG.  2 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  2 A ; 
         FIG.  2 C  is an end view of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  2 A ; 
         FIG.  2 D  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  2 C ; 
         FIG.  3 A  is a plan view of a first exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  3 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  3 A ; 
         FIG.  3 C  is an end view of a portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  3 B ; 
         FIG.  3 D  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  3 A ; 
         FIG.  3 E  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  3 A ; 
         FIG.  3 F  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  3 A ; 
         FIG.  4 A  is a plan view of a second exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  4 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  4 A ; 
         FIG.  4 C  is an end view of a portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  4 B ; 
         FIG.  4 D  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board and an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  4 A ; 
         FIG.  4 E  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  4 A ; 
         FIG.  4 F  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  4 A ; 
         FIG.  5 A  is a plan view of a third exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  5 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  5 C  is an end view of a portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  5 B ; 
         FIG.  5 D  is an enlarged plan view of another portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  5 E  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board and an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  5 F  is an enlarged plan view of another portion of a printed circuit board and an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  5 G  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  5 H  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  5 A ; 
         FIG.  6 A  is a plan view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  6 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  6 A ; 
         FIG.  6 C  is an end view of a portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  6 B ; 
         FIG.  6 D  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  6 A ; 
         FIG.  6 E  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  6 A ; 
         FIG.  7 A  is a plan view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  7 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  7 A ; 
         FIG.  7 C  is an end view of a portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  7 B ; 
         FIG.  7 D  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board and an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  7 A ; 
         FIG.  7 E  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  7 A ; 
         FIG.  7 F  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  7 A ; 
         FIG.  8 A  is a plan view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  8 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  8 A ; 
         FIG.  8 C  is an end view of a portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  8 B ; 
         FIG.  8 D  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board and an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  8 A ; 
         FIG.  8 E  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  8 A ; 
         FIG.  8 F  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  8 A ; 
         FIG.  9 A  is a plan view of a seventh exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  9 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  9 C  is an end view of a portion of the printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  9 B ; 
         FIG.  9 D  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board and an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  9 E  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  9 F  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  10 A  is a plan view of an eighth exemplary embodiment of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention; 
         FIG.  10 B  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  10 A ; 
         FIG.  10 C  is an enlarged plan view of another portion of a printed circuit board of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  10 A ; 
         FIG.  10 D  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a printed circuit board and an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  10 A ; 
         FIG.  10 E  is an enlarged plan view of another portion of a printed circuit board and an antenna of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  10 A ; 
         FIG.  10 F  is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  10 A ; and 
         FIG.  10 G  is an enlarged end view of a portion of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor shown in  FIG.  10 A . 
     
    
    
     Similar numerals refer to similar parts throughout the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Exemplary embodiments of an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the present invention are shown in  FIGS.  1  and  3 A- 10 G , and are indicated at  10 A- 10 H, respectively. The integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor is preferably employed in a tire  12 . 
     For example, referring to  FIG.  1   , a first exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor is indicated at  10 A. The tire  12  includes a pair of bead areas  14  and a respective bead core  16  embedded in each bead area. A respective sidewall  18  extends radially outward from each bead area  14  to a ground-contacting tread  20 . The tire  12  is reinforced by a carcass  22  that toroidally extends from one of the bead areas  12  to the other one of the bead areas. The carcass  20  includes at least one ply  24  that preferably winds around each bead core  16 . A belt reinforcement package  26  preferably is disposed between the carcass  22  and the tread  20 . An innerliner  28  is formed on the inside surface of the carcass  22 . A tire cavity  30  is disposed inwardly of the innerliner  28 . 
     When the tire  12  is mounted on a wheel (not shown) of a vehicle, as known in the art, the innerliner  28  cooperates with the wheel to render the tire cavity  30  airtight. The integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A preferably is mounted on the innerliner  28  of the tire  12  and is disposed in the tire cavity  30 . Of course, all embodiments of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A- 10 H may be employed in the tire  12 . 
     By way of background, turning to  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D , an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor of the prior art  2  is shown. The prior art integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  2  includes a printed circuit board  3  and a coil antenna  4  that is electronically attached to the printed circuit board. The coil antenna  4  is directly placed on the printed circuit board  3  and solder  5  is applied to bond the antenna to the printed circuit board. This structure may create issues, such as difficulty in placing the coil antenna  4  at a repeatable, exact location on the printed circuit board  3 , leading to undesirable variation in alignment and antenna length. There is also limited surface contact between the coil antenna  4  and the printed circuit board  3  for soldering  5 , which may cause undesirable variation in the strength of the bond between the antenna and the printed circuit board and a decrease in bond durability. When a second coil antenna  6  is mounted to the printed circuit board  3  with the first coil antenna  4 , each antenna is soldered to separate area on the printed circuit board, which may create a different wave form contact between the two antennas that impairs the performance of the antennas. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  3 A- 3 F , the structure of the first exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A is shown. The integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A includes an RFID tag  32 , which in turn includes an integrated circuit  34 . The integrated circuit  34  is carried on a printed circuit board  36  and processes and stores data for the tire  12 . More particularly, the integrated circuit  36  includes electronic memory capacity for storing identification (ID) information for each tire  12 , known as tire ID information. 
     The tire ID information may include manufacturing information for the tire  12 , such as: the tire type; tire model; size information, such as rim size, width, and outer diameter; manufacturing location; manufacturing date; a treadcap code that includes or correlates to a compound identification; and a mold code that includes or correlates to a tread structure identification. The tire ID information may also include a service history or other information to identify specific features and parameters of each tire  12 , as well as mechanical characteristics of the tire. 
     The integrated circuit  34  also modulates and demodulates a radio frequency signal for communication with an external reader (not shown) through an antenna  40 , which will be described in greater detail below. 
     A TPMS sensor  38  preferably is mounted on the RFID tag  32 , and thus is in electronic communication with the integrated circuit  34  and the antenna  40 . The TPMS sensor  38  preferably includes a pressure sensor that measures the pressure in the tire cavity  30 , and may include a temperature sensor that measures the temperature in the tire cavity and/or another component of the tire  12 . The TPMS sensor  38  may correlate the pressure and temperature measurements. Other sensors may also be mounted on the RFID tag  32 , such as a stress sensor, a strain sensor, vibration sensor, accelerometer, and the like. 
     The antenna  40  preferably includes two coil antenna wires  42   a  and  42   b,  which are each formed in a helical shape. The antenna  40  receives and transmits a signal to the external reader using a radio frequency, thus facilitating communication between the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A and the reader. The configuration of the RFID tag  32 , integrated circuit  34 , printed circuit board  36 , TPMS sensor  38 , and antenna  40  is more fully described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021/0016614, which is owned by the same Assignee as the present invention, The Goodyear Tire &amp; Rubber Company, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     Each antenna wire  42   a  and  42   b  includes a first end  44   a  and  44   b,  respectively, which is mounted to the printed circuit board  36 . For the purpose of convenience, the connection of the first antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36  will be described, with the understanding that the description also applies to the connection of the second antenna wire  42   b  to the printed circuit board. A solder pad  46  preferably is formed on the printed circuit board  36 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is mounted to the solder pad with solder  48 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is electrically connected to the integrated circuit  34  through conductive traces on the printed circuit board  36  that extend between the solder pad  46  and the integrated circuit. 
     The first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A includes a mechanical interlock  50  between the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  50  includes features that secure the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36 . More particularly, a straight slot  52  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The slot  52  does not extend through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . A corresponding straight slot  54  is formed in the solder pad  46 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  is formed with a straight terminus  56 . The straight terminus  56  of the antenna wire  42   a  seats in the aligned slots  52  and  54 . In this manner, the printed circuit board  36  receives and mechanically engages the terminus  56  of the antenna wire  42   a.    
     After the straight terminus  56  of the antenna wire  42   a  is engaged in the slots  52 ,  54 , the solder  48  preferably is deposited on the solder pad  46  to secure the connection of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board  36 . As mentioned above, the second antenna wire  42   b  is connected to the printed circuit board  36  in the same manner as the first antenna wire  42   a.    
     The first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A thus provides a mechanical interlock  50  between the first end  44   a,    44   b  of each respective antenna  42   a ,  42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  50  enables secure, convenient, and repeatable placement of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 . By seating in the slots  52 ,  54 , the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  is controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock  50  also enables easy soldering on a flat surface, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     Turning to  FIGS.  4 A- 4 F , the structure of a second exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 B is shown. The second embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 B includes an RFID tag  32 , integrated circuit  34 , printed circuit board  36 , TPMS sensor  38 , and antenna  40  in a configuration that is similar to the description provided above for the first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A. The antenna  40  also includes a first antenna wire  42   a  and a second antenna wire  42   b,  each of which includes a first end  44   a  and  44   b,  respectively, also as described above. 
     For the purpose of convenience, the connection of the first antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36  will be described, with the understanding that the description also applies to the connection of the second antenna wire  42   b  to the printed circuit board. A solder pad  46  preferably is formed on the printed circuit board  36 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is mounted to the solder pad with solder  48 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is electrically connected to the integrated circuit  34  through conductive traces on the printed circuit board  36  that extend between the solder pad  46  and the integrated circuit. 
     The second embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 B includes a mechanical interlock  58  between the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  58  includes features that secure the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36 . More particularly, a circular slot  60  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The slot  60  does not extend through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . A corresponding circular slot  62  is formed in the solder pad  46 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  is formed with a circular terminus  56 . Preferably, the circular terminus  56  is formed by bending one pitch  66  of the first end  44   a  of the coiled antenna wire  42   a  to an angle that is about ninety (90) degrees relative to the remainder of the coiled antenna pitches. The circular terminus  64  of the antenna wire  42   a  seats in the aligned slots  60  and  62 . In this manner, the printed circuit board  36  receives and mechanically engages the terminus  64  of the antenna wire  42   a.    
     After the circular terminus  64  of the antenna wire  42   a  is engaged in the slots  60 ,  62 , the solder  48  preferably is deposited on the solder pad  46  to secure the connection of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board  36 . As mentioned above, the second antenna wire  42   b  is connected to the printed circuit board  36  in the same manner as the first antenna wire  42   a.    
     The second embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 B thus provides a mechanical interlock  58  between the first end  44   a,    44   b  of each respective antenna  42   a ,  42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  58  enables secure, convenient, and repeatable placement of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 . By seating in the slots  60 ,  62 , the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  is controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock  58  also enables easy soldering on a flat surface, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     Turning to  FIGS.  5 A- 5 H , the structure of a third exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 C is shown. The third embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 C includes an RFID tag  32 , integrated circuit  34 , printed circuit board  36 , TPMS sensor  38 , and antenna  40  in a configuration that is similar to the description provided above for the first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A. The antenna  40  also includes a first antenna wire  42   a  and a second antenna wire  42   b,  each of which includes a first end  44   a  and  44   b,  respectively, also as described above. 
     For the purpose of convenience, the connection of the first antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36  will be described, with the understanding that the description also applies to the connection of the second antenna wire  42   b  to the printed circuit board. A solder pad  46  preferably is formed on the printed circuit board  36 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is mounted to the solder pad with solder  48 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is electrically connected to the integrated circuit  34  through conductive traces on the printed circuit board  36  that extend between the solder pad  46  and the integrated circuit. 
     The third embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 C includes a mechanical interlock  68  between the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  68  includes features that secure the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36 . More particularly, a straight slot  70  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The slot  70  extends through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . The slot  70  is positioned so that a distance between a top edge  74  of the printed circuit board  36  and a top  76  of the slot is less than an inside diameter  78  of the coiled antenna wire  42 , creating an insert  86 . A straight slot  80  is formed in the solder pad  46  and aligns with the slot  70  in the printed circuit board  36 . A recess  82  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  near the straight slot  70 , and does not extend through the thickness of the printed circuit board. 
     The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  includes a terminus  84 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the insert  86  of the printed circuit board  36 , and the terminus  84  seats in the recess  82 . In this manner, the printed circuit board  36  receives and mechanically engages the first end  44   a  and the terminus  84  of the antenna wire  42   a.  After the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the insert  86  of the printed circuit board  36 , and the terminus  84  seats in the recess  82 , the solder  48  preferably is deposited on the solder pad  46  to secure the connection of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board  36 . As mentioned above, the second antenna wire  42   b  is connected to the printed circuit board  36  in the same manner as the first antenna wire  42   a.    
     The third embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 C thus provides a mechanical interlock  68  between the first end  44   a,    44   b  of each respective antenna  42   a ,  42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  68  enables secure, convenient, and repeatable placement of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 . The interlock  68  also enables the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  to be controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock  68  further enables easy soldering, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     Turning to  FIGS.  6 A- 6 E , the structure of a fourth exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 D is shown. The fourth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 D includes an RFID tag  32 , integrated circuit  34 , printed circuit board  36 , TPMS sensor  38 , and antenna  40  in a configuration that is similar to the description provided above for the first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A. The antenna  40  also includes a first antenna wire  42   a  and a second antenna wire  42   b,  each of which includes a first end  44   a  and  44   b,  respectively, also as described above. 
     For the purpose of convenience, the connection of the first antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36  will be described, with the understanding that the description also applies to the connection of the second antenna wire  42   b  to the printed circuit board. A solder pad  46  preferably is formed on the printed circuit board  36 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is mounted to the solder pad with solder  48 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is electrically connected to the integrated circuit  34  through conductive traces on the printed circuit board  36  that extend between the solder pad  46  and the integrated circuit. 
     The fourth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 D includes a mechanical interlock  88  between the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  88  includes features that secure the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36 . 
     More particularly, a first slot  90  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The first slot  90  extends in a straight manner across the printed circuit board  36 , with a semi-circular cross section through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . A second slot  92  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The second slot  92  extends in a straight manner across the printed circuit board  36  parallel to the first slot  90 , with a semi-circular cross section through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . The slots  90  and  92  are of an equal length, and are positioned so that a distance  94  between a bottom edge  96  of the first slot and a top edge  98  of the second slot is less than an inside diameter  100  of the coiled antenna wire  42 , creating an insert  102 . A first slot  104  is formed in the solder pad  46  in alignment with the first slot  90  in the printed circuit board  36 , and a second slot  106  is formed in the solder pad in alignment with the second slot  92  in the printed circuit board. 
     The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the insert  102  of the printed circuit board  36 . In this manner, the printed circuit board  36  receives and mechanically engages the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a.  After the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the insert  102  of the printed circuit board  36 , the solder  48  preferably is deposited on the solder pad  46  to secure the connection of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board  36 . As mentioned above, the second antenna wire  42   b  is connected to the printed circuit board  36  in the same manner as the first antenna wire  42   a.    
     The fourth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 D thus provides a mechanical interlock  88  between the first end  44   a,    44   b  of each respective antenna  42   a ,  42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  88  enables secure, convenient, and repeatable placement of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 . The interlock  88  also enables the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  to be controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock  88  further enables easy soldering, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     Turning to  FIGS.  7 A- 7 F , the structure of a fifth exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 E is shown. The fifth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 E includes an RFID tag  32 , integrated circuit  34 , printed circuit board  36 , TPMS sensor  38 , and antenna  40  in a configuration that is similar to the description provided above for the first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A. The antenna  40  also includes a first antenna wire  42   a  and a second antenna wire  42   b,  each of which includes a first end  44   a  and  44   b,  respectively, also as described above. 
     For the purpose of convenience, the connection of the first antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36  will be described, with the understanding that the description also applies to the connection of the second antenna wire  42   b  to the printed circuit board. A solder pad  46  preferably is formed on the printed circuit board  36 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is mounted to the solder pad with solder  48 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is electrically connected to the integrated circuit  34  through conductive traces on the printed circuit board  36  that extend between the solder pad  46  and the integrated circuit. 
     The fifth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 E includes a mechanical interlock  108  between the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  108  includes features that secure the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36 . 
     More particularly, a first slot  110  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The first slot  110  extends in a straight manner across the printed circuit board  36 , with a semi-circular cross section through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . A second slot  112  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The second slot  112  extends in a straight manner across the printed circuit board  36  parallel to the first slot  110 , with a semi-circular cross section through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . The second slot  112  is formed with a length that is greater than a length of the first slot  110 . The slots  110  and  112  are positioned so that a distance  114  between a bottom edge  116  of the first slot and a top edge  118  of the second slot is less than an inside diameter  120  of the coiled antenna wire  42 , creating an insert  122 . A first slot  124  is formed in the solder pad  46  in alignment with the first slot  110  in the printed circuit board  36 , and a second slot  126  is formed in the solder pad in alignment with the second slot  112  in the printed circuit board. 
     A recess  128  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  near the first slot  110 , and does not extend through the thickness of the printed circuit board. The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  includes a terminus  130 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the insert  122  of the printed circuit board  36 , and the terminus  130  seats in the recess  128 . In this manner, the printed circuit board  36  receives and mechanically engages the first end  44   a  and the terminus  130  of the antenna wire  42   a.  After the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the insert  122  of the printed circuit board  36 , and the terminus  130  seats in the recess  128 , the solder  48  preferably is deposited on the solder pad  46  to secure the connection of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board  36 . As mentioned above, the second antenna wire  42   b  is connected to the printed circuit board  36  in the same manner as the first antenna wire  42   a.    
     The fifth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 E thus provides a mechanical interlock  108  between the first end  44   a,    44   b  of each respective antenna  42   a ,  42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  108  enables secure, convenient, and repeatable placement of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 . The interlock  108  also enables the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  to be controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock  108  further enables easy soldering, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     Turning to  FIGS.  8 A- 8 F , the structure of a sixth exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 F is shown. The sixth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 F includes an RFID tag  32 , integrated circuit  34 , printed circuit board  36 , TPMS sensor  38 , and antenna  40  in a configuration that is similar to the description provided above for the first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A. The antenna  40  also includes a first antenna wire  42   a  and a second antenna wire  42   b,  each of which includes a first end  44   a  and  44   b,  respectively, also as described above. 
     For the purpose of convenience, the connection of the first antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36  will be described, with the understanding that the description also applies to the connection of the second antenna wire  42   b  to the printed circuit board. A solder pad  46  preferably is formed on the printed circuit board  36 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is mounted to the solder pad with solder  48 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is electrically connected to the integrated circuit  34  through conductive traces on the printed circuit board  36  that extend between the solder pad  46  and the integrated circuit. 
     The sixth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 F includes a mechanical interlock  132  between the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  132  includes features that secure the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36 . 
     More particularly, a first slot  134  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The first slot  134  extends in a straight manner across the printed circuit board  36 , with a straight cross section through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . A second slot  136  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The second slot  136  extends in a straight manner across the printed circuit board  36  parallel to the first slot  134 , with a straight cross section through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . The second slot  136  is formed with a length that is greater than a length of the first slot  134 . The slots  134  and  136  are positioned so that a distance  138  between a bottom edge  140  of the first slot and a top edge  142  of the second slot is less than an inside diameter  144  of the coiled antenna wire  42 , creating an insert  146 . A first slot  148  is formed in the solder pad  46  in alignment with the first slot  134  in the printed circuit board  36 , and a second slot  150  is formed in the solder pad in alignment with the second slot  136  in the printed circuit board. 
     A recess  152  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  near the first slot  134 , and does not extend through the thickness of the printed circuit board. The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  includes a terminus  154 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the insert  146  of the printed circuit board  36 , and the terminus  154  seats in the recess  152 . In this manner, the printed circuit board  36  receives and mechanically engages the first end  44   a  and the terminus  154  of the antenna wire  42   a.  After the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the insert  146  of the printed circuit board  36 , and the terminus  154  seats in the recess  152 , the solder  48  preferably is deposited on the solder pad  46  to secure the connection of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board  36 . As mentioned above, the second antenna wire  42   b  is connected to the printed circuit board  36  in the same manner as the first antenna wire  42   a.    
     The sixth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 F thus provides a mechanical interlock  132  between the first end  44   a,    44   b  of each respective antenna  42   a ,  42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  132  enables secure, convenient, and repeatable placement of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 . The interlock  132  also enables the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  to be controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock  132  further enables easy soldering, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     Turning to  FIGS.  9 A- 9 F , the structure of a seventh exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 G is shown. The seventh embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 G includes an RFID tag  32 , integrated circuit  34 , printed circuit board  36 , TPMS sensor  38 , and antenna  40  in a configuration that is similar to the description provided above for the first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A. The antenna  40  also includes a first antenna wire  42   a  and a second antenna wire  42   b,  each of which includes a first end  44   a  and  44   b,  respectively, also as described above. 
     For the purpose of convenience, the connection of the first antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36  will be described, with the understanding that the description also applies to the connection of the second antenna wire  42   b  to the printed circuit board. A solder pad  46  preferably is formed on the printed circuit board  36 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is mounted to the solder pad with solder  48 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is electrically connected to the integrated circuit  34  through conductive traces on the printed circuit board  36  that extend between the solder pad  46  and the integrated circuit. 
     The seventh embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 G includes a mechanical interlock  156  between the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  156  includes features that secure the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36 . More particularly, a first slot  158  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The first slot  134  extends in a straight manner into the printed circuit board  36 , with a straight cross section through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board  36 . A first opening  162  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  in parallel alignment with the first slot  134 , and extends through the printed circuit board. A distance  174  between the first slot  158  and the first opening  162  matches a pitch  176  of the coiled antenna wire  42   a.    
     A second slot  164  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique. The second slot  164  extends into the printed circuit board  36  parallel to the first slot  158  for a distance that is less than the first slot, with a straight cross section through the entire thickness of the printed circuit board. The second slot  164  is formed with a length that is less than or shorter than a length of the first slot  158 . A second opening  166  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  in parallel alignment with the second slot  164 , and extends through the printed circuit board. A third opening  168  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  in parallel alignment with the second slot  164  and the second opening  166 , and extends through the printed circuit board. A distance  178  between the second slot  164  and the second opening  166  matches the pitch  176  of the coiled antenna wire  42   a,  and a distance  180  between the second opening  166  and the third opening  168  also matches the pitch of the coiled antenna wire. 
     The first slot  158  and the first opening  162  are spaced apart from the second slot  164 , the second opening  166 , and the third opening  168 , creating a distance  170  that is slightly less than an inside diameter  172  of the coiled antenna wire  42 . A slot  182  is formed in the solder pad  46  in alignment with the first slot  158  in the printed circuit board  36 , a first opening  184  is formed in the solder pad in alignment with the first opening  162 , a second opening  186  is formed in the solder pad in alignment with the second opening  166 , and a third opening  188  is formed in the solder pad in alignment with the third opening  168 . 
     A recess  190  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  parallel to and near the first opening  162 , and does not extend through the thickness of the printed circuit board. A distance  192  between the first opening  162  and the recess  190  matches the pitch  176  of the coiled antenna wire  42   a.  The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  includes a terminus  194 . This structure enables the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to wind through the first slot  158 , the second slot  164 , the first opening  162 , the second opening  166 , and the third opening  168 , with the terminus  194  seating in the recess  190 . In this manner, the printed circuit board  36  receives and mechanically engages the first end  44   a  and the terminus  194  of the antenna wire  42   a.    
     After the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the first slot  158 , the second slot  164 , the first opening  162 , the second opening  166 , and the third opening  168 , and the terminus  194  seats in the recess  190 , the solder  48  preferably is deposited on the solder pad  46  to secure the connection of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board  36 . As mentioned above, the second antenna wire  42   b  is connected to the printed circuit board  36  in the same manner as the first antenna wire  42   a.    
     The seventh embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 G thus provides a mechanical interlock  156  between the first end  44   a,    44   b  of each respective antenna  42   a ,  42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  156  enables secure, convenient, and repeatable placement of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 . The interlock  156  also enables the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  to be controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock  156  further enables easy soldering, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     Turning to  FIGS.  10 A- 10 G , the structure of an eighth exemplary embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 H is shown. The eighth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 H includes an RFID tag  32 , integrated circuit  34 , printed circuit board  36 , TPMS sensor  38 , and antenna  40  in a configuration that is similar to the description provided above for the first embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A. The antenna  40  also includes a first antenna wire  42   a  and a second antenna wire  42   b,  each of which includes a first end  44   a  and  44   b,  respectively, also as described above. 
     For the purpose of convenience, the connection of the first antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36  will be described, with the understanding that the description also applies to the connection of the second antenna wire  42   b  to the printed circuit board. A solder pad  46  preferably is formed on the printed circuit board  36 , and the first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is mounted to the solder pad with solder  48 . The first end  44   a  of the antenna  42   a  is electrically connected to the integrated circuit  34  through conductive traces on the printed circuit board  36  that extend between the solder pad  46  and the integrated circuit. 
     The eighth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 H includes a mechanical interlock  196  between the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  196  includes features that secure the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to the printed circuit board  36 . More particularly, a first opening  198  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  by milling or another forming technique, and extends through the printed circuit board. A second opening  200  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  in parallel alignment with the first opening  198 , and extends through the printed circuit board. A distance  206  between the first opening  198  and the second opening  200  matches a pitch  208  of the coiled antenna wire  42   a.    
     The first opening  198  and the second opening  200  are spaced apart from a top edge  202  of the printed circuit board  36 , creating a distance  204  that is slightly less than an inside diameter  210  of the coiled antenna wire  42 . A first opening  212  is formed in the solder pad  46  in alignment with the first opening  198  in the printed circuit board  36 , and a second opening  214  is formed in the solder pad in alignment with the second opening  214 . A recess  216  is formed in the printed circuit board  36  parallel to and near the second opening  200 , and does not extend through the thickness of the printed circuit board. A distance  218  between the second opening  200  and the recess  216  matches the pitch  208  of the coiled antenna wire  42   a.  The first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  includes a terminus  220 . 
     This structure enables the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  to wind over the top edge  202  of the printed circuit board  36 , through the first opening  198 , and through the second opening  200 , with the terminus  220  seating in the recess  216 . In this manner, the printed circuit board  36  receives and mechanically engages the first end  44   a  and the terminus  220  of the antenna wire  42   a.  After the first end  44   a  of the antenna wire  42   a  engages the top edge  202  of the printed circuit board  36 , the first opening  198 , and the second opening  200 , and the terminus  220  seats in the recess  216 , the solder  48  preferably is deposited on the solder pad  46  to secure the connection of the antenna wire to the printed circuit board  36 . As mentioned above, the second antenna wire  42   b  is connected to the printed circuit board  36  in the same manner as the first antenna wire  42   a.    
     The eighth embodiment of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 H thus provides a mechanical interlock  196  between the first end  44   a,    44   b  of each respective antenna  42   a ,  42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . The mechanical interlock  196  enables secure, convenient, and repeatable placement of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 . The interlock  196  also enables the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  to be controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock  196  further enables easy soldering, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     In this manner, the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A- 10 H of the present invention employs a structure that includes an antenna connection to a printed circuit board  36  which provides consistent placement and alignment of the antenna  40  for optimum performance. The printed circuit board  36  includes features that guide the antenna coil  44   a,    44   b  for optimum placement, thereby simplifying repeatable antenna placement. The features preferably are formed in the printed circuit board  36  during manufacture of the board, desirably eliminating the need for special forming tools or processes. 
     The mechanical interlock of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A- 10 H of the present invention includes features that ensure consistent and repeatable installation of each respective antenna  42   a,    42   b  on the printed circuit board  36 , which in turn ensures performance of the antenna. The mechanical interlock features of the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A- 10 H also enable the length of each antenna wire  42   a,    42   b  to be controlled, creating a uniform wave form contact between the first and second antenna wires. The mechanical interlock features further enable easy soldering, which increases the durability of the bond between the antenna wires  42   a,    42   b  and the printed circuit board  36 . 
     The present invention also includes a method of forming an integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A- 10 H. The method includes steps in accordance with the description that is presented above and shown in  FIGS.  1  and  3 A- 10 G . It is to be understood that the structure of the above-described the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A- 10 H may be altered or rearranged, or components known to those skilled in the art omitted or added, without affecting the overall concept or operation of the invention. For example, the integrated RFID tag and TPMS sensor  10 A- 10 H may be formed as an integrated unit as described above, or may be formed with a separable RFID tag and TPMS sensor. 
     The invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments. Potential modifications and alterations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this description. It is to be understood that all such modifications and alterations are included in the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims, or the equivalents thereof.