Abstract:
An apparatus for mounting an object within a tire includes a ply having a first side for mounting against an innerliner of the tire and a pedestal extending upwards from a second side of the ply. The pedestal has a recessed planar top surface, with an elongated front cavity, an elongated rear cavity, and a substantially cylindrical central cavity disposed therein. The substantially cylindrical cavity is defined by an internal sidewall. The internal sidewall includes mating structure selected from the group consisting of threads and a plurality of downwardly extending slots.

Description:
FIELD OF INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present disclosure relates to the field of attaching a device to a tire. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus attached to a tire for receiving devices with different attachment means. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Mounting devices are used to attach objects to a tire, and particularly to an innerliner of a tire. One application is to attach a radio frequency identification tag or chip (RFID) to the innerliner of a tire. Another application is to secure a pressure and/or temperature-sensing device to the innerliner of the tire. Various fasteners are used to connect the object to the mounting device, including hook and loop fasteners, threaded connectors, clamps, pins, and snap-fit structures. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    In one embodiment, an assembly for mounting an object inside of a tire includes a rubber ply having a first side affixable to an interior surface of a tire and a pedestal extending from a second side of the rubber ply. The pedestal had a top surface and at least one sidewall. The pedestal has a front cavity in the top surface proximate to a front end of the pedestal, a rear cavity in the top surface proximate to a rear end of the pedestal, and a central cavity in the top surface between the front cavity and the rear cavity. The assembly also includes an electronic device and an intermediate member connected to the electronic device and to the pedestal. 
         [0004]    In another embodiment, an apparatus for mounting an object within a tire includes a ply having a first side for mounting against an innerliner of the tire and a pedestal extending upwards from a second side of the ply. The pedestal has a recessed planar top surface, with an elongated front cavity, an elongated rear cavity, and a substantially cylindrical central cavity disposed therein. The substantially cylindrical cavity is defined by an internal sidewall. The internal sidewall includes mating structure selected from the group consisting of threads and a plurality of downwardly extending slots. 
         [0005]    In yet another embodiment, a tire monitoring kit includes a mounting apparatus having a plurality of mounting configurations, an electronic device, and means for connecting the electronic device to the mounting apparatus using less than all of the plurality of mounting configurations. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0006]    In the accompanying drawings, structures are illustrated that, together with the detailed description provided below, describe exemplary embodiments of the claimed invention. Like elements are identified with the same reference numerals. It should be understood that elements shown as a single component may be replaced with multiple components, and elements shown as multiple components may be replaced with a single component. The drawings are not to scale and the proportion of certain elements may be exaggerated for the purpose of illustration. 
           [0007]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a mounting apparatus  100 ; 
           [0008]      FIG. 2  is a rear view of the mounting apparatus  100 ; 
           [0009]      FIG. 3  is a top view of the mounting apparatus  100 ; 
           [0010]      FIG. 4  is a side view of the mounting apparatus  100 ; 
           [0011]      FIG. 5  is a side view of an electronic device  200 ; 
           [0012]      FIG. 6  is a side view of a partially assembled mounting apparatus  100  and electronic device  200 ; 
           [0013]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a further assembled mounting apparatus  100  and electronic device  200 ; 
           [0014]      FIG. 8  is an exploded view of the mounting apparatus  100  and an alternative embodiment of an electronic device  300  and one embodiment of an intermediate member  400 ; 
           [0015]      FIG. 9  is an exploded view of the mounting apparatus  100  and another alternative embodiment of an electronic device  500  and an alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  600 ; 
           [0016]      FIG. 10  is an exploded view of the mounting apparatus  100  and yet another alternative embodiment of an electronic device  700  and another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  800 ; 
           [0017]      FIG. 11  is an exploded view of the mounting apparatus  100  and another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  900 ; 
           [0018]      FIG. 12  is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1000  and still another alternative embodiment of an electronic device  1100 ; 
           [0019]      FIG. 13  is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of the mounting apparatus  1000  of  FIG. 12  with the electronic device  300  and the intermediate member  400  of  FIG. 8 ; 
           [0020]      FIG. 14  is another alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1200  and yet another alternative embodiment of an electronic device  1300 ; 
           [0021]      FIG. 15  is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of the mounting apparatus  1200  of  FIG. 14  with the electronic device  300  and the intermediate member  400  of  FIG. 8 ; 
           [0022]      FIG. 16  is an exploded view of the electronic device  200  of  FIGS. 5-7  with another alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1400  and another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  1500 ; 
           [0023]      FIG. 17  is an exploded view of the electronic device  200  of  FIGS. 5-7  with yet another alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1600  and yet another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  1700 ; and 
           [0024]      FIG. 18  is an exploded view of the electronic device  200  of  FIGS. 5-7  with still another alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1800  and still another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  1900 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0025]    An “innerliner,” as used herein, refers to an impervious surface that is the innermost interior surface of the tire cavity. Both singular and plural forms of this term may be within the definitions. 
         [0026]      FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a mounting apparatus  100 . The mounting apparatus includes a ply  110  having a first side  110   a  and a second side  110   b.  The first side  110   a  of the ply is affixable to an innerliner of a tire (not shown). The ply  110  is constructed of a resilient material, such as rubber or other elastomeric material. In one embodiment, the ply  110  is constructed of the same rubber composition as the innerliner of the tire. It should be understood that the ply  110  may be constructed of any thermoplastic or thermoset, including without limitation, neoprene, butyl, TPU, EPDM. A mounting apparatus for tires used in severe use environments, such as high temperatures, high speeds, or high strains, may require a different rubber composition than a mounting apparatus for tires used in milder environments or cold weather environments. 
         [0027]    In one embodiment, the ply  110  is affixed to the innerliner of the tire on a sidewall portion of a tire. In another embodiment, the ply  110  is affixed to the innerliner of the tire under the belt area of the tire. In yet another embodiment, the ply  110  is affixed to the innerliner of the tire in a shoulder region of the tire. In still another embodiment, the ply  110  is affixed to the innerliner of the tire in the bead region of the tire. 
         [0028]    The affixation position may be selected based on properties of a specific tire type. For example, a tire may be tested to determine stresses, strains, vibrations, temperatures, and other characteristics at various locations during operation of the tire. A location with minimal stresses and strains may be a desirable affixation position, because such a location will minimize the stresses put on the mounting apparatus. Alternatively, a location with maximum stresses and strains may be a desirable affixation position, because an operator may wish to monitor a tire at a location where it is most likely to fail if operating conditions are too severe. Other desirable affixation positions will be apparent to those skilled in the art and include those positions at which an electronic device may transmit a signal to a receiver, without damage to the tire, the electronic device, or the mounting apparatus. The affixation location in the belt area may be a desirable location if the belt does not interfere with transmission. 
         [0029]    In one embodiment, the ply  110  is affixed to the innerliner of a green tire at a desired location, and that portion of the mounting apparatus  100  is cured with the tire. The material of the ply  110  will bond with the rubber of the innerliner during curing. Additionally, or in the alternative, an adhesive may be used to mount the innerliner to the green tire, prior to curing. 
         [0030]    In an alternative embodiment, the ply  110  is affixed to the innerliner of a cured tire. In one such embodiment, an uncured ply  110  is affixed to the innerliner of a cured tire using a dual cure cement or dual cure gum. Alternatively, other cements, gums, or adhesives may be used to bond the ply  110  to the innerliner. In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the mounting apparatus may be separable into a lower component and an upper component, wherein the lower component of the mounting apparatus is cured with the tire innerliner, and the upper component of the mounting apparatus is affixed to the lower component after the tire has been cured. 
         [0031]    A pedestal  120  is connected to the ply  110 . In the illustrated embodiment, an angled base  130  extends upwards from the first side  110   a  of the ply, and the pedestal  120  extends upwards from the angled base  130 . The pedestal  120  and base  130  may also be described or characterized as a single pedestal with a plurality of sidewalls. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the angled base may be omitted. In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the mounting apparatus  100  does not include a ply. In such an embodiment, the pedestal  120  would be mounted directly to the inner liner of the tire. 
         [0032]    The pedestal  120  is a rectangular cuboid having a rim  140  that defines a recessed top planar surface  150 . However, it should be understood that the pedestal may have any geometric shape. For example, the rim may be omitted or one or more of the edges of the pedestal may be beveled or otherwise curved. As another example, the top surface of the pedestal may be curved concavely or convexly. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the pedestal includes one or more grooves in its side walls. 
         [0033]    With continued reference to  FIG. 1 , the top surface  150  of the pedestal  120  has a front cavity  160  and a rear cavity  170  disposed therein. A portion of the front cavity  160  is covered by a guard  180 . In the illustrated embodiment, each of the front and rear cavities  160 ,  170  is elongated and substantially centered in the lateral direction. However, the geometry and location of each cavity may be varied. In alternative embodiments, any number of cavities may be employed. For example, two or more cavities may be employed at each end of the pedestal. As another example, the pedestal may have two front cavities and a single rear cavity, or a single front cavity and two rear cavities. 
         [0034]    The rear sides of the pedestal  120  include a through hole  190  that extends through the entire rear end of the pedestal. The through hole  190  is sized to receive a pin P. The through hole  190  is positioned such that it crosses the rear cavity  170 . That is, when the pin P is received in the through hole  190 , a portion of the pin P is visible in the rear cavity  170 , in the manner shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         [0035]      FIGS. 2, 3, and 4  illustrate rear, top, and side views, respectively, of the mounting apparatus  100 . As can be seen in these views the pedestal  120  is substantially rectangular when viewed from the top. As shown in the top view of  FIG. 3 , the base  130  has rounded corners. However, it should be understood that other geometric shapes may be employed. For example, without limitation, one or more of the pedestal and the base may be circular, ovular, square, or hexagonal. 
         [0036]      FIG. 5  illustrates a side view of an electronic device  200 . The electronic device  200  is provided in a casing, and includes various sensors and communication components. In one embodiment, the electronic device  200  includes a sensor for measuring an internal temperature of a tire and a transmitter device, such as a radio frequency transmitter. In an alternative embodiment, the electronic device includes a sensor for measuring an internal pressure of a tire and a transmitter device. In another alternative embodiment, the electronic device includes one or more sensors for measuring both an internal temperature and an internal pressure of a tire, as well as a transmitter device. In other alternative embodiments, the electronic device may include accelerometers, stress gauges, strain gauges, sensors for counting tire revolutions, temperature sensors for measuring a temperature of tire materials, sensors for measuring tread depths, or any other known sensors. The electronic device may also include identification information. 
         [0037]    An external communication device (not shown) may be employed to receive data transmitted from the electronic device  200 . The external communication device may be mounted on the vehicle, or it may be part of a handheld or stationary device. In one embodiment, the electronic device  200  may be placed in a “sleep” or non-transmitting state until it receives a signal from the external communication device, or until it otherwise senses that it is in proximity with the external communication device. In such an embodiment, the electronic device would include a receiver and signal processing hardware. 
         [0038]    Additionally, the electronic device  200  includes a power source, such as a battery. In an alternative embodiment, the power source may be a current generator that generates current during rotation of the tire. For example, energy may be harvested from vibration, temperature, or other environmental parameter. Alternatively, backscatter technology may be employed to derive energy from an external source. For example, energy may be derived from the external communication device described above. 
         [0039]    The electronic device  200  includes a front lobe  210  disposed on a bottom surface of the device. The front lobe is laterally centered on the electronic device  200  and projects forward beyond a front surface of the casing of the electronic device  200 . In the illustrated embodiment, the front lobe  210  includes a through hole  220 . In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the through hole is omitted. 
         [0040]    The electronic device  200  also includes a rear lobe  230  disposed on the bottom surface of the device. The rear lobe  230  is laterally centered on the electronic device  200  and is aligned with a rear surface of the casing of the electronic device  200 . The rear lobe  230  includes a through hole  240 . The front and rear lobes  210 ,  230  may be referred to as intermediate members. 
         [0041]    In alternative embodiments, the number and the location of the lobes may vary. For example, the electronic device may have multiple front lobes and multiple rear lobes. As another example, the electronic device may have two front lobes and a single rear lobe, or a single front lobe and two rear lobes. 
         [0042]    It should be understood that the number of lobes need not correspond to the number of cavities in the pedestal. The number of lobes may be less than the number of cavities in the pedestal. For example, a first electronic device may have lobes in a first set of locations and a second electronic device may have lobes in a second set of locations. The pedestal may have cavities in both a first and second set of locations so that it may accommodate both the first and second electronic devices. 
         [0043]      FIG. 6  illustrates a side view of a partially assembled mounting apparatus  100  and electronic device  200 . In this view, the front lobe is hidden from view because it has been inserted into the front cavity of the mounting apparatus  100 . The front lobe is disposed under the guard  180 . When the front lobe of the electronic device  200  is inserted into the front cavity of the mounting apparatus  100 , the guard  180  limits the vertical movement of the front lobe. 
         [0044]    In one embodiment, the front cavity  160  of the mounting apparatus  100  has substantially the same width as the front lobe  210  of the electronic device  200 . Accordingly, when the front lobe of the electronic device  200  is inserted into the front cavity of the mounting apparatus  100 , the front lobe cannot move laterally. In an alternative embodiment, the front cavity of the mounting apparatus is wider than the front lobe of the electronic device. In such an embodiment, when the front lobe of the electronic device is inserted into the front cavity of the mounting apparatus, sidewalls of the front cavity limit the lateral movement of the front lobe. 
         [0045]      FIG. 7  illustrates a perspective view of a further assembled mounting apparatus  100  and electronic device  200 . At this stage of assembly, the rear end of the electronic device  200  has been lowered so that the rear lobe  230  is received in the rear cavity  170  of the mounting apparatus  100 . The through hole (not shown) of the rear lobe  230  is aligned with the through hole  190  of the mounting apparatus  100  so that the pin P can be inserted through both through holes. The inserted pin P limits movement in the vertical direction as well as the fore-aft direction. 
         [0046]    In one embodiment, each of the through holes  190 ,  230  has a smooth, cylindrical surface. In such an embodiment, the pin P may be a split end pin (i.e., a cotter pin) having two tines that may be bent outward to lock the pin P in place. Alternatively, the pin P may have a threaded end that receives a nut. As another alternative, the pin P may have a through hole to receive a locking pin. 
         [0047]    In an alternative embodiment (not shown), one or more of the through holes is threaded. In another alternative embodiment, multiple pins may be employed. For example, a first pin may be inserted through the left side through hole and a second pin may be inserted through the right side through hole. In still another alternative embodiment (not shown), a band clamp may be used to secure the electronic device. 
         [0048]    In one embodiment, the rear cavity  170  of the mounting apparatus  100  has substantially the same width as the rear lobe  230  of the electronic device  200 . Accordingly, when the rear lobe  230  is inserted into the front cavity of the mounting apparatus  100 , the rear lobe cannot move laterally. In an alternative embodiment, the rear cavity of the mounting apparatus is wider than the rear lobe of the electronic device. In such an embodiment, when the rear lobe of the electronic device is inserted into the rear cavity of the mounting apparatus, sidewalls of the cavity would limit the lateral movement of the rear lobe. 
         [0049]    In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the mounting apparatus includes a second through hole that is aligned with the through hole of the front lobe of the electronic device. In such an embodiment, a second pin may be employed to further secure the electronic device to the mounting apparatus. 
         [0050]      FIG. 8  illustrates an exploded view of the mounting apparatus  100  and an alternative embodiment of an electronic device  300  having a groove  310 . The illustrated assembly is substantially the same as the assembly shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , except for the differences described herein. Like reference numerals are used for like components. It should be understood that the alternative embodiments discussed in relation to the mounting apparatus and assembly shown in  FIGS. 1-7  may also apply to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 8 . 
         [0051]    The assembly further includes an intermediate member  400  having a rib  410  that is slidably received by the groove  310  of the electronic device  300 . The electronic device  300  may be retained in position through friction, adhesive or through other fastening means such as a locking pin, set screw, or other fastener. 
         [0052]    The intermediate member  400  includes a rear lobe  420  having a through hole  430 . The rear lobe  420  is laterally centered on the intermediate member  400  and is aligned with its rear surface. However, it should be understood that the rear lobe may be located elsewhere on the intermediate member. The intermediate member  400  further includes a front lobe (not shown) that is substantially similar to the front lobe  210  of the electronic device  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 5-7 . 
         [0053]    The intermediate member  400  can be mounted to the mounting apparatus  100  in a manner similar to the electronic device  200 , as described above with reference to  FIGS. 6 and 7 . 
         [0054]    With continued reference to  FIG. 8 , the electronic device  300  is slidably attached to the intermediate member  400 , and could be retained by a retaining pin (not shown) inserted through the ends of the electronic device  300 . In one embodiment, the electronic device  300  is slid onto the intermediate member  400  before the intermediate member is mounted to the mounting apparatus  100 . In an alternative embodiment, the electronic device  300  is slid onto the intermediate member  400  after the intermediate member is mounted to the mounting apparatus  100 . 
         [0055]      FIG. 9  illustrates an exploded view of the mounting apparatus  100  and another alternative embodiment of an electronic device  500 . In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device  500  includes a threaded aperture (not shown) configured to receive a threaded fastener. The assembly is substantially the same as that shown in  FIG. 8 , except for the differences described herein. Like reference numerals are used for like components. It should be understood that the alternative embodiments discussed in relation to the previously described assemblies may also apply to the assembly shown in  FIG. 9 . 
         [0056]    The assembly further includes an intermediate member  600  having a threaded fastener  610  that is received by the threaded aperture of the electronic device  500 . The intermediate member  400  includes a rear lobe  620  having a through hole  630 . The rear lobe  620  is laterally centered on the intermediate member  600  and is aligned with its rear surface. However, it should be understood that the rear lobe may be located elsewhere on the intermediate member. The intermediate member  600  further includes a front lobe  640  having a through hole  650 . The front lobe  640  is laterally centered on the intermediate member  600 . Alternatively, it may be located elsewhere on the intermediate member. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the through hole of the front lobe may be omitted. 
         [0057]    The intermediate member  600  can be mounted to the mounting apparatus  100  in a manner similar to the electronic device  200 , as described above with reference to  FIGS. 6 and 7 . 
         [0058]    In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device  500  is mounted solely by the threaded fastener  610 . In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the electronic device  500  is further secured by clamps or straps. The clamps or straps may directly engage the electronic device  500 , or one or more intermediate members (not shown) may be positioned between the clamps and electronic device to further secure the electronic device. 
         [0059]      FIG. 10  illustrates an exploded view of the mounting apparatus  100  and another alternative embodiment of an electronic device  700 . In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device  700  includes a pair apertures  710  configured to receive a fastener. The assembly is substantially the same as that shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , except for the differences described herein. Like reference numerals are used for like components. It should be understood that the alternative embodiments discussed in relation to the previously described assemblies may also apply to the assembly shown in  FIG. 10 . 
         [0060]    The assembly includes an intermediate member  800  having a pair of threaded fasteners  810  that are received by apertures of the electronic device  700 . The intermediate member  800  includes a rear lobe  820  having a through hole  830 . The rear lobe  820  is laterally centered on the intermediate member  800  and is aligned with its rear surface. However, it should be understood that the rear lobe may be located elsewhere on the intermediate member. The intermediate member  800  further includes a front lobe  840  having a through hole  850 . The front lobe  840  is laterally centered on the intermediate member  800 . Alternatively, it may be located elsewhere on the intermediate member. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the through hole of the front lobe may be omitted. 
         [0061]    The intermediate member  800  can be mounted to the mounting apparatus  100  in a manner similar to the electronic device  200 , as described above with reference to  FIGS. 6 and 7 . 
         [0062]    In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device  700  is mounted by inserting the threaded fasteners  810  through the cavities  710 . A pair of nuts (not shown) is then used to retain the threaded fasteners. In one embodiment, the cavities are smooth. In an alternative embodiment, the cavities are threaded and the threaded fasteners are rotatable. In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the fasteners are not threaded but are instead retained by a retaining pin or other retaining means. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the electronic device  700  is further secured by clamps or straps. The clamps or straps may directly engage the electronic device  700 , or one or more intermediate members (not shown) may be positioned between the clamps and electronic device to further secure the electronic device. 
         [0063]      FIG. 11  illustrates an exploded view of the mounting apparatus  100  and another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  900  having a slot  910  configured to receive a strap (not shown). The strap may include fasteners such as hook-and-loop fasteners, hook-and-hook fasteners, snaps, buttons, and other known fasteners. The strap may be used to secure an electronic device to a top surface of the intermediate member  900 . Additionally, adhesive may be used to further secure the electronic device to the intermediate member. While the intermediate member  900  is shown as having a flat top surface, in an alternative embodiment (not shown), the intermediate member may have a recessed top surface. 
         [0064]    In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the intermediate member has fixed straps extending from its sides, instead of a slot configured to receive a strap. 
         [0065]    The intermediate member  900  includes a rear lobe  920  having a through hole  930 . The rear lobe  920  is laterally centered on the intermediate member  900  and is aligned with its rear surface. However, it should be understood that the rear lobe may be located elsewhere on the intermediate member. The intermediate member  900  further includes a front lobe (not shown) that is substantially similar to the front lobe  210  of the electronic device  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 5-7 . 
         [0066]    The intermediate member  900  can be mounted to the mounting apparatus  100  in a manner similar to the electronic device  200  as described above with reference to  FIGS. 6 and 7 . 
         [0067]      FIG. 12  illustrates an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1000  and still another alternative embodiment of an electronic device  1100 . The mounting apparatus  1000  is substantially the same as the mounting apparatus  100  shown in the previous figures, except for the differences described herein. Like reference numerals are used for like components. It should be understood that the alternative embodiments discussed in relation to the mounting apparatus  100  may also apply to the mounting apparatus  1000 . 
         [0068]    In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting apparatus  1000  includes a pedestal  120 , front cavity  160 , rear cavity  170 , and guard  180 , similar to those of the mounting apparatus  100 . Additionally, the mounting apparatus  1000  further includes a substantially cylindrical central cavity  1010  having internal threads. 
         [0069]    The electronic device  1100  includes a threaded fastener  1110  that corresponds to the internal threads of the central cavity  1010 . The threaded fastener  1110  may also be referred to as an intermediate member. The electronic device  1100  may be mounted to the mounting apparatus  1000  by aligning the threaded fastener  1110  with the central cavity  1010  and rotating the electronic device  1100  and the threaded fastener  1110  until the electronic device  1100  is secure. 
         [0070]    In one embodiment, the electronic device  1100  is mounted solely by the threaded fastener  1110  and the central cavity  1010 . In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the electronic device  1100  is further secured by clamps or straps. The clamps or straps may directly engage the electronic device  1100 , or one or more intermediate members (not shown) may be positioned between the clamps and the electronic device to further secure the electronic device. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), both the electronic device and the intermediate member include cavities with internal threads, and a separate threaded rod is mated with both the electronic device and the intermediate member. 
         [0071]    The front and rear cavities  160 ,  170  of the mounting apparatus  1000  are not used in this mounting configuration, but their presence allows for different objects to be mounted in other configurations. One example of such a configuration is shown in  FIG. 13 , which illustrates an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of the mounting apparatus  1000  with the electronic device  300  and the intermediate member  400  of  FIG. 8 . In this embodiment, the front lobe (not shown) and rear lobe  420  of the intermediate member  400  are received in the front and rear cavities  160 ,  170  of the mounting apparatus  1000 , in the same manner that they are received in the corresponding cavities of the mounting apparatus  100  described above. 
         [0072]    Additionally, a solid plug (not shown) may be used to fill in the central cavity  1010  of the mounting apparatus  1000  in instances where the cavity is not used. Such a plug may be constructed of an elastomeric material or metal. 
         [0073]    It should be readily apparent that the mounting apparatus  1000  can also be employed with the electronic device  100  of  FIGS. 5-7 , the alternative electronic device  500  and intermediate member  600  of  FIG. 9 , the alternative electronic device  700  and alternative intermediate member  800  of  FIG. 10 , or the alternative intermediate member  900  of  FIG. 11 . These embodiments are not shown for space considerations. 
         [0074]      FIG. 14  illustrates an exploded view of another alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1200  and yet another alternative embodiment of an electronic device  1300 . The electronic device  1300  includes a plurality of tabs  1310 . The tabs may also be referred to as intermediate members or “bayonets.” 
         [0075]    The mounting apparatus  1200  is substantially the same as the mounting apparatuses  100  and  1000  shown in the previous figures, except for the differences described herein. Like reference numerals are used for like components. It should be understood that the alternative embodiments discussed in relation to the mounting apparatuses  100  and  1000  may also apply to the mounting apparatus  1200 . 
         [0076]    In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting apparatus  1200  includes a pedestal  120 , front cavity  160 , rear cavity  170 , and guard  180 , similar to those of the mounting apparatuses  100  and  1000 . Additionally, the mounting apparatus  1200  further includes a substantially cylindrical central cavity  1210  that has sidewall  1220  with a plurality of substantially vertical grooves  1230  disposed therein. The substantially vertical grooves  1230  are configured to receive the tabs  1310  of the electronic device  1300 . At the base of the sidewall  1220 , horizontal grooves  1240  extend substantially orthogonally from the substantially vertical grooves  1230 . A biasing member  1250  is disposed in the bottom of the central cavity. Exemplary biasing members include rubber members and springs. It should be understood that any thermoplastic or thermoset material may be employed. 
         [0077]    To mount the electronic device  1300  to the mounting apparatus  1200 , the tabs  1310  of the electronic device  1300  are aligned with the substantially vertical grooves  1230  of the central cavity  1210 . The electronic device  1300  is then pushed downwards until it reaches the bottom surface of the central cavity. The electronic device  1300  is then rotated such that the tabs  1310  are disposed in the horizontal grooves  1240 . The biasing member  1250  biases the electronic device  1300  upwards, such that the tabs  1310  are biased into locking notches  1260  that extend upwards from the ends of the horizontal grooves  1240 . In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the central cavity does not include locking notches, and the tabs are biased such that they abut the walls of the horizontal grooves  1240 . In either manner, the electronic device  1300  may be prevented from rotating within the central cavity  1210 . 
         [0078]    In one embodiment, the electronic device  1300  is mounted solely by the locking notches  1260  or horizontal grooves  1240  in the central cavity  1210 . In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the electronic device  1300  is further secured by clamps. The clamps may directly engage the electronic device  1300 , or one or more intermediate members (not shown) may be positioned between the clamps and electronic device to further secure the electronic device. 
         [0079]    The front and rear cavities  160 ,  170  of the mounting apparatus  1200  are not used in this mounting configuration, but their presence allows for different objects to be mounted in other configurations. One example of such a configuration is shown in  FIG. 15 , which illustrates an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of the mounting apparatus  1200  with the electronic device  300  and the intermediate member  400  of  FIG. 8 . In this embodiment, the front lobe (not shown) and rear lobe  420  of the intermediate member  400  are received in the front and rear cavities  160 ,  170  of the mounting apparatus  1200 , in the same manner that they are received in the corresponding cavities of the mounting apparatus  100  described above. 
         [0080]    Additionally, a solid plug (not shown) may be used to fill in the central cavity  1210  of the mounting apparatus  1200  in instances where the central cavity is not used. Such a plug may be constructed of an elastomeric material or metal. 
         [0081]    It should be readily apparent that the mounting apparatus  1200  can also be employed with the electronic device  100  of  FIGS. 5-7 , the alternative electronic device  500  and intermediate member  600  of  FIG. 9 , the alternative electronic device  700  and alternative intermediate member  800  of  FIG. 10 , or the alternative intermediate member  900  of  FIG. 11 . These embodiments are not shown for space considerations. 
         [0082]      FIG. 16  is an exploded view of the electronic device  200  of  FIGS. 5-7  with another alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1400  and another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  1500 . In this embodiment, the mounting apparatus  1400  includes a ply  1410  and a rib  1420  that extends upwards from the ply. The ply  1410  is affixable to an innerliner of a tire (not shown) and is constructed of a resilient material, such as those materials described above with reference to the ply  110 . The mounting apparatus  1400  can be mounted to a tire in a manner similar to those described above with respect to the mounting apparatus  100 . 
         [0083]    The intermediate member  1500  includes features substantially similar to those of the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100  of  FIG. 1 . Specifically, the intermediate member  1500  includes a rim  1510  that defines a recessed top planar surface  1520 . The intermediate member  1500  further includes a front cavity  1530  and a rear cavity  1540  disposed in the top planar surface  1520 . A portion of the front cavity  1530  is covered by a guard  1550 . The rear sides of the intermediate member  1500  include a through hole  1560  that extends through the entire rear end of the intermediate member. The through hole  1560  is sized to receive a pin P. The through hole  1560  is positioned such that it crosses the rear cavity  1540 . 
         [0084]    The intermediate member  1500  is configured to receive the electronic device  200  in the same manner that the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100  is described as receiving the electronic device above. It should be understood that the intermediate member  1500  may be varied in the same manners described above with respect to the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100 . 
         [0085]    The intermediate member  1500  further includes a groove  1570  that corresponds to the shape of the rib  1420  of the mounting apparatus  1400 . The rib  1420  is slidably received by the groove  1570 . The intermediate member  1500  may be retained in position through friction, adhesive or through other fastening means such as a locking pin, set screw, or other fastener. 
         [0086]      FIG. 17  is an exploded view of the electronic device  200  of  FIGS. 5-7  with still another alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1600  and still another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  1700 . In this embodiment, the mounting apparatus  1600  includes a ply  1610  and a pedestal  1620  that extends upwards from the ply. The pedestal  1620  includes a threaded cavity  1630  in its top surface. 
         [0087]    The ply  1610  is affixable to an innerliner of a tire (not shown) and is constructed of a resilient material, such as those materials described above with reference to the ply  110 . The mounting apparatus  1600  can be mounted to a tire in a manner similar to those described above with respect to the mounting apparatus  100 . 
         [0088]    The intermediate member  1700  includes features substantially similar to those of the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100  of  FIG. 1 . Specifically, the intermediate member  1700  includes a rim  1710  that defines a recessed top planar surface  1720 . The intermediate member  1700  further includes a front cavity  1730  and a rear cavity  1740  disposed in the top planar surface  1720 . A portion of the front cavity  1730  is covered by a guard  1750 . The rear sides of the intermediate member  1700  include a through hole  1760  that extends through the entire rear end of the intermediate member. The through hole  1760  is sized to receive a pin P. The through hole  1760  is positioned such that it crosses the rear cavity  1740 . 
         [0089]    The intermediate member  1700  is configured to receive the electronic device  200  in the same manner that the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100  is described as receiving the electronic device above. It should be understood that the intermediate member  1700  may be varied in the same manners described above with respect to the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100 . 
         [0090]    The intermediate member  1700  further includes a threaded rod  1770  that corresponds to threads of the threaded cavity  1630  of the mounting apparatus  1600 . The threaded rod  1770  may be fixedly attached to the intermediate member  1700  or it may be received in a threaded cavity (not shown) in a bottom surface of the intermediate member. 
         [0091]    In one embodiment, the intermediate member  1700  is connected to the mounting apparatus  1600  solely through the threaded rod  1770 . In alternative embodiments, adhesive or other fastening means may be employed to retain the intermediate member. Exemplary fastening means include locking pins, set screws, and other fasteners. 
         [0092]    In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the pedestal includes a threaded rod that extends upwards from its top surface. The threaded rod is then received by a corresponding threaded cavity in the intermediate member. 
         [0093]    In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the pedestal includes a cavity having vertical and horizontal grooves, such as those present in the cavity  1210  in the mounting apparatus  1200  shown in  FIG. 14 . Such a cavity can receive a tabbed member extending from an intermediate member. 
         [0094]      FIG. 18  is an exploded view of the electronic device  200  of  FIGS. 5-7  with still another alternative embodiment of a mounting apparatus  1800  and still another alternative embodiment of an intermediate member  1900 . In this embodiment, the mounting apparatus  1800  includes a ply  1810  and a pedestal  1820  that extends upwards from the ply. The pedestal  1820  includes a pair of threaded rods  1830  that extend from its top surface. In one embodiment, the threaded rods  1830  are fixedly attached to the pedestal  1820 . In an alternative embodiment, the threaded rods are received in corresponding threaded cavities in the pedestal  1820 . 
         [0095]    The ply  1810  is affixable to an innerliner of a tire (not shown) and is constructed of a resilient material, such as those materials described above with reference to the ply  110 . The mounting apparatus  1800  can be mounted to a tire in a manner similar to those described above with respect to the mounting apparatus  100 . 
         [0096]    The intermediate member  1900  includes features substantially similar to those of the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100  of  FIG. 1 . Specifically, the intermediate member  1900  includes a rim  1910  that defines a recessed top planar surface  1920 . The intermediate member  1900  further includes a front cavity  1930  and a rear cavity  1940  disposed in the top planar surface  1920 . A portion of the front cavity  1930  is covered by a guard  1950 . The rear sides of the intermediate member  1900  include a through hole  1960  that extends through the entire rear end of the intermediate member. The through hole  1960  is sized to receive a pin P. The through hole  1960  is positioned such that it crosses the rear cavity  1940 . 
         [0097]    The intermediate member  1900  is configured to receive the electronic device  200  in the same manner that the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100  is described as receiving the electronic device above. It should be understood that the intermediate member  1900  may be varied in the same manners described above with respect to the pedestal  120  of the mounting apparatus  100 . 
         [0098]    The intermediate member  1900  further includes an inverted T-shaped member  1970  extending from a bottom surface. The inverted T-shaped member  1970  includes a pair of apertures  1980  (only one aperture is visible from this view). The apertures  1980  are positioned to receive the threaded rods  1830  of the mounting apparatus  1800 . In one embodiment, the apertures  1980  have smooth sidewalls and the threaded rods  1830  are secured using nuts (not shown). In an alternative embodiment, the apertures are threaded. In such an embodiment, the threaded rods are not fixedly attached to the mounting apparatus, but are instead received in both the threaded apertures of the intermediate member and corresponding threaded cavities of the intermediate member. 
         [0099]    In one embodiment, the intermediate member  1900  is connected to the mounting apparatus  1800  solely through the threaded rods  1830 . In alternative embodiments, adhesive or other fastening means may be employed to retain the intermediate member. Exemplary fastening means include locking pins, set screws, and other fasteners. 
         [0100]    To the extent that the term “includes” or “including” is used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as that term is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “or” is employed (e.g., A or B) it is intended to mean “A or B or both.” When the applicants intend to indicate “only A or B but not both” then the term “only A or B but not both” will be employed. Thus, use of the term “or” herein is the inclusive, and not the exclusive use. See, Bryan A. Garner, A Dictionary of Modern Legal Usage 624 (2d. Ed. 1995). Also, to the extent that the terms “in” or “into” are used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to additionally mean “on” or “onto.” Furthermore, to the extent the term “connect” is used in the specification or claims, it is intended to mean not only “directly connected to,” but also “indirectly connected to” such as connected through another component or components. 
         [0101]    While the present application has been illustrated by the description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the application, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details, the representative apparatus and method, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant&#39;s general inventive concept.