Tire pressure monitoring engineering heats up

Sept. 11, 2001

Two major tire manufacturers are putting a lot of emphasis on tire pressure monitoring systems.

Groupe Michelin announced its EnTire Solution tire pressure monitoring (TPM) system, developed in partnership with TRW Inc., has impressed "a major European original equipment manufacturer." The system features radio frequency electronics.

TRW and Michelin also are developing advanced sensor-transmitters with valve mount and off-valve mount options compatible with Michelin's PAX System. "These two mounting options offer OEMs worldwide more flexibility in selecting a TPM sensor-transmitter for use with conventional and run-flat tire systems," says Alain Charlois, director of business development for TRW Automotive Electronic's Safety and Security division.

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and Siemens VDO Automotive also will be developing an advanced tire pressure warning system.

"This joint development agreement builds on tire air pressure monitoring work done by both Goodyear and Siemens VDO," said Goodyear Chairman and CEO Sam Gibara at the Frankfurt International Motor Show. "We intend to help automakers meet TREAD (Transportation, Recall, Enhancement, Accountability and Documentation) Act and other requirements worldwide."