TRW introduces new “hybrid” TPMS

TRW Automotive Holdings has launched what it calls a next generation tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This system uses sensors that are fixed on the tyres for measuring the temperature and pressure inside the tyre.

The technology is based on a hybrid direct system which uses a combination of sensing technologies to provide automatic location of an under-inflated tyre. This data is then combined with the data from the vehicle’s ABS wheel speed sensors and the driver is notified about the location and about the tyres that may have low pressure.

The system has four TPMS sensors that are fixed on each tyre, but unlike previous systems, this does not require electronic initiators to locate the position of the sensors. The receiver for the system can be fixed in the passenger compartment and can integrate the data from the TPMS sensors and the ABS sensors to provide the location of the tyres.

But with virtually everyone agreeing that direct sensors are more accurate than indirect systems, why go for the hybrid? The goal is clear: comparable accuracy at a lower cost. According to Martin Thoone, VP of TRW’s electronic engineering department, the fact that the receiver can be placed within the car, reduces the total installation costs and thus makes the TPMS an affordable sensing system.

The TPMS from TRW is scheduled for production by 2013.

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