TRW TireWatch Provides Added Safety and Improved Performance
19 October 1998
TRW TireWatch(TM) System Provides Consumers With Added Safety and Improved PerformanceDEARBORN, 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.