TRW TireWatch Provides Added Safety and Improved Performance
19 October 1998
TRW TireWatch(TM) System Provides Consumers With Added Safety and Improved Performance DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 19 -- The mere thought of being
stranded on the side of the road due to a flat tire is a fear that countless
drivers experience. The TRW TireWatch(TM) system, which TRW unveiled here
today, can provide drivers with peace of mind.
Introduced at the Convergence '98 International Congress on Transportation
Electronics, the TRW TireWatch system integrates tire pressure sensing and
radio-frequency technology to economically provide added safety and improved
performance for vehicles equipped with run-flat or conventional radial tires.
The unique tire monitoring system uses a radio-frequency
sensor/transmitter on each tire to measure pressure, as well as temperature,
and transmit the information to a receiver located in the vehicle's interior.
The receiver can then display information to alert the driver about the loss
of pressure so that a problem can be addressed.
"The TRW TireWatch system, which uses TRW's proven expertise in radio-
frequency technology, can be integrated into existing electronics for greater
functionality at less cost for automakers," said Thomas J. Doyle, vice
president and general manager, North America, TRW Automotive Electronics
Group.
"Research shows that slow leaks are responsible for 75 percent of all flat
tires," he said. "The TRW TireWatch system can help consumers avoid
breakdowns caused by driving too long on under-inflated tires."
The system also integrates self-diagnostics and black-box recording
capabilities to address liability and warranty issues for automakers and tire
manufacturers.
"Self-diagnostics inform the driver of a malfunction in the tire
monitoring system," Doyle said. "The black box records that the driver, in
fact, was alerted to a low tire pressure situation and for what length of
time. This is key information for liability and warranty cases."
When a vehicle is in motion, the TRW TireWatch system monitors the
pressure of each tire and transmits it in routine intervals. If there is a
loss of pressure, the system informs the driver immediately.
When the vehicle's ignition is turned off, the TRW TireWatch system
switches to a "sleep mode," activating periodically to measure tire pressure.
Transmission occurs only when the pressure fluctuates, limiting battery wear
and communication overlap. As soon as the vehicle's ignition is turned on, a
unique "key-on" feature provides the driver with information about the current
tire pressure.
The system offers several tire sensor installation options, including a
valve-stem mounted design, which is adjustable to fit rim contours. Other
sensor-mounting options include a unique snap-in pocket mount, cast into the
wheel, which eliminates interference with tire mounting and the need for
counter weights. A strap-on mounting option is also available in original
equipment manufacturer and aftermarket applications.
The TRW TireWatch system's receiver can be integrated into the overhead
console, instrument panel, rearview mirror or center console. Audio, as well
as visual displays, can provide feedback to the driver.
Tire monitoring systems can improve a vehicle's overall performance by
optimizing gas mileage, increasing road adherence, improving tire life and
performance, and enhancing braking performance for all conventional tires.
The systems are required on the new run-flat tires, which can operate without
air for up to 50 miles at 55 miles per hour.
TRW expects the market for its tire monitoring system to grow rapidly.
With increasing consumer demand for safety-related products, several leading
tire companies are predicting that more than 20 percent of all tires produced
within the next five years will be run-flat tires. One major company is
predicting 70 percent for its tires.
The development and manufacturing of the TRW TireWatch system is made
possible through a strategic alliance between TRW and SmarTire Systems Inc. of
Richmond, British Columbia.
TRW Automotive Electronics Group is a leading producer of electronic
safety, security and convenience systems for the global automotive market.
In addition to the tire monitoring system, its major product lines include air
bag crash sensors, smart restraint electronics, remote keyless entry systems,
switch and control systems, advanced theft-deterrent and security systems,
driver information systems, body controllers and electrically assisted
steering control units, as well as engineered fastening systems.
TRW Inc. is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, and has sales of
nearly $12 billion. The company is one of the largest independent automotive
components suppliers in the world with $7 billion in worldwide automotive
sales. The company also provides advanced technology products and services
for the space, defense and information technology markets worldwide.
TRW and TRW TireWatch(TM) are the trademarks of TRW Inc.
