This article was posted on the F1technical.net web site 4.7.09. An interesting technical application coming into commercial use in the future?
As supplier to several F1 teams, BERU f1systems have designed a new infra red sensor to monitor tyres in high performance environments. The infra red sensor provides accurate tyre carcass temperature for F1 applications.
BERU claims that the new sensor is the first that provides accurate tyre temperature and pressure data unaffected by heat soak. Dramatic reductions in testing and new slick tyres in 2009 have fuelled the need for the new monitoring device.
"Tyre temperature sensors are normally fitted to the rim as part of the valve," says managing director John Bailey. "Heat soak from the rim and brakes distorts results leading to incorrect set up. Our system uses IR sensors to measure the inside temperature of the tyre itself, not just the air temperature."
The system has been tested by F1 teams in the first winter tests as teams got to grips with slick tyres. "With limited testing, proven data will be valuable in 2009," adds Bailey. An upcoming ban on tyre warmers in 2010 will make this system more relevant as engineers seek trusted data to identify optimum tyre parameters qualifying and race performance.
The system offers excellent resolution (0.25ºC) and accuracy (0.5ºC) across an extended temperature range (-40 ºC to 215ºC). The wheel sensor transmits pressure, air and tyre temperature at 1Hz, via antennae to the ECU. Existing BERU f1systems’ customers can simply upgrade their existing TPMS with new wheel electronics and software. The system is also compatible with CAN bus, making it easy to integrate with existing displays.
The sensor also includes a Low Frequency (LF) receiver allowing race engineers to receive data remotely. This also allows tyre temperature and pressure to be monitored when the wheels are not fitted to a vehicle but on dynos or test beds.
BERU f1systems’ TPMS systems are used in NASCAR, WTCC, Indy Car, Le Mans Series, Rally Raid and Formula One.
