GB2539257A

GB2539257A - Control system, vehicle and method

Info

Publication number: GB2539257A
Application number: GB1510278.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Woodley Jonathan; Ciovnicu Roxana
Original assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Current assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority date: 2015-06-12
Filing date: 2015-06-12
Publication date: 2016-12-14
Anticipated expiration: 2035-06-12
Also published as: WO2016198589A1; GB2539257B; GB201510278D0

Abstract

A controller for a motor vehicle central tyre inflation system comprises; the controller being configured to control the system to cause inflation and deflation of one or more tyres. the controller being configured to cause the system to operate in a selected one of a plurality of operating modes in each of which the system is configured to set a pressure of one or more tyres of the vehicle to a predetermined tyre pressure value, the controller being configured to receive an input from a user indicative of the operating mode in which the system is to operate, the controller being configured wherein when an input is received indicating that a change in operating mode is required, the controller requests the user to provide an input confirming that a change in operating mode is required before causing a change in system operating mode. Also disclosed is a method of controlling CTIS system and a computer program for carrying out the method.

Description

CONTROL SYSTEM, VEHICLE AND METHOD

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to central tyre inflation systems (CTIS's) and to a related method.

BACKGROUND

Central tyre inflation systems (CTIS's) were originally developed for military applications, in particular for military applications concerning off-road military wheeled trucks and trailers.

However, CTIS's are nowadays incorporated into non-military vehicles such as specialist construction equipment and some agricultural vehicles.

A CTIS typically comprises a compressed air source located on-board the vehicle and connected to one or more tyres. Tyre pressure can therefore be adjusted by operating the CTIS. The CTIS delivers compressed air to tyre supply lines. In some examples, the supply lines are integrated into the vehicle axles. Various valves are provided in the CTIS to control flow of compressed air.

At least in certain embodiments, the present invention aims to solve, or at least mitigate, at least some problems that can be identified in the prior art, and/or to provide an improved CTIS and/or CTIS control strategy compared to the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention relate to a controller for a CTIS; to a CTIS; to a vehicle; to a related method; to a carrier medium. To a computer program product, to a computer readable medium and to a processor.

Embodiments of the invention may be understood with reference to the appended claims.

In one aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided an electronic controller for a motor vehicle central tyre inflation system, the controller being configured to control the system to cause inflation and deflation of one or more tyres, the controller being configured to cause the system to operate in a selected one of a plurality of operating modes in each of which the system is configured to set a pressure of one or more tyres of the vehicle to a predetermined tyre pressure value, the controller being configured to receive a first electronic signal indicative of a user input of a change in operating mode in which the system is to operate, the controller being configured such that when said first electronic signal indicative of said user input is received, the controller requests the user to provide an input confirming that said change in operating mode is required before causing a change in system operating mode.

The electronic controller may comprise: an electronic processor having an electrical input for receiving said first electronic signal indicative of a user input of the operating mode in which the system is to operate; and an electronic memory device electrically coupled to the electronic processor and having instructions stored therein, and wherein in response to receiving said first electronic signal the processor is configured to access the memory device and execute the instructions stored therein such that it is operable to request the user to provide an input confirming that a change in operating mode is required.

This feature has the advantage that the system may ensure that the user has intentionally requested a change in the inflation system operating mode.

Optionally, if the controller does not receive a second electronic signal indicative of a user input confirming that a change in operating mode is required within a predetermined time period the controller causes the system to remain in the current operating mode.

This feature has the advantage that if a user is experiencing a relatively high workload and has unintentionally requested a change in operating mode, the user may ignore the request to provide an input confirming that a change in system operating mode is required and not provide the requested input. Once the predetermined time period has expired the system will return to a state in which a change in operating mode in response to a user request requires the steps of requesting the change and confirming that the change is intended.

Optionally, the predetermined time period is a period in the range from 1s to 30s, preferably in the range from 1s to 10s.

Optionally, the operating modes comprise at least one operating mode for on-road driving and at least one operating mode for off-road driving, wherein when the central tyre inflation system is operating in an on-road mode and an off-road mode is selected, and the controller receives the second electronic signal, the controller causes a message to be displayed to the user indicating that a speed limit has been imposed on the vehicle.

The controller may be configured to impose a speed limit on the vehicle when operating in one said at least one off-road mode by commanding the control of at least one of a powertrain and a braking system.

The controller may cause the speed limit to be imposed by limiting an amount of power the powertrain may apply to one or more wheels when speed is at or close to the speed limit, for example by reducing an amount of power generated by a prime mover such as an engine or electric machine, and/or opening one or more clutches or other torque transfer devices of the powertrain, such as clutches or torque transfer devices of a driveline.

In an aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a motor vehicle central tyre inflation system comprising a controller according to a preceding aspect.

In one aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a motor vehicle comprising a body, a plurality of wheels, a powertrain to drive said wheels, a braking system to brake said wheels, and a central tyre inflation system according to any preceding 20 claim.

In another aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a method of controlling a motor vehicle central tyre inflation system to cause inflation and deflation of one or more tyres, implemented by means of an electronic controller, the method comprising causing the system to operate in a selected one of a plurality of operating modes in each of which the system is configured to set a pressure of one or more tyres of the vehicle to a predetermined tyre pressure value, the method comprising receiving an input from a user indicative of the operating mode in which the system is to operate, whereby when an input is received indicating that a change in operating mode is required, the method comprises requesting a user to provide an input confirming that a change in operating mode is required before causing a change in system operating mode.

In one aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a carrier medium carrying computer readable code for controlling a vehicle to carry out the method of another aspect.

In one aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a computer program product executable on a processor so as to implement the method of another aspect.

In one aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a computer readable medium loaded with the computer program product of another aspect.

In one aspect of the invention for which protection is sought there is provided a processor arranged to implement the method of another aspect.

It is to be understood that the controller or controllers described herein may comprise a control unit or computational device having one or more electronic processors. The system may comprise a single control unit or electronic controller or alternatively different functions of the controller may be embodied in, or hosted in, different control units or controllers. As used herein the term "control unit" will be understood to include both a single control unit or controller and a plurality of control units or controllers collectively operating to provide the stated control functionality. A set of instructions could be provided which, when executed, cause said computational device to implement the control techniques described herein. The set of instructions could be embedded in said one or more electronic processors.

Alternatively, the set of instructions could be provided as software to be executed on said computational device. The controller may be implemented in software run on one or more processors. One or more other controllers may be implemented in software run on one or more processors, optionally the same one or more processors as the controller. Other arrangements are also useful.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

For the avoidance of doubt, it is to be understood that features described with respect to one aspect of the invention may be included within any other aspect of the invention, alone or in appropriate combination with one or more other features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures in which: Figure 1A is a schematic representation of a central tyre inflation system (CTIS) according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 1B is a vehicle system boundary diagram representing the CTIS shown in Figure 1A; Figure 2 is a high level block diagram illustrating the operation of the CTIS described herein; Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating a target tyre pressure setting strategy implemented by the CTIS described herein; and Figure 5 is a cross-sectional schematic illustration of a wheel of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description and in the drawings, reference letters are used to collectively or un-specifically identify equivalent or essentially equivalent components. Where necessary, a specific component in a collection of equivalent or essentially equivalent components may be identified by suffixing a reference letter in subscript format.

It is to be understood that by the term 'key off' (power mode 0) herein is meant the assumption by the vehicle or portion thereof of a configuration requiring the presence of a security device such as a key, key fob or other security device in order for the vehicle to be restarted at 'key on'. For example if the vehicle has an internal combustion engine the engine is shut down at key off in a manner that requires a direct driver intervention other than release of a brake or actuation of an accelerator control in order to restart the engine, e.g. a key turn, or the press of a start button when a security device is in the proximity of the vehicle, to restart the engine, i.e. not an engine shut down as part of an automated stop/start function designed to save fuel/reduce emissions when the vehicle is stationary but when continued movement is intended.

In the present embodiment the vehicle VH is configured to assume one of a plurality of power modes PM at a given moment in time. In each power mode the vehicle VH is operable to allow a predetermined set of one or more operations to be performed. For example, the vehicle VH may allow a predetermined one or more vehicle subsystems such as an infotainment system, a windscreen demist subsystem and a windscreen wiper control system to be activated only in a respective one or more predetermined power modes. In one or more of the power modes the vehicle VH may be configured to inhibit one or more operations, such as turning on of the infotainment system. In the present embodiment power mode zero (PMO) corresponds to a shutdown condition in which controllers of the vehicle VH assume either an off state or a quiescent state. Systems such as an infotainment system are not operable when in power mode PMO.

A central tyre inflation system (CTIS) 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying Figures. As shown schematically in Figure 1A, the CTIS 1 is installed in a vehicle VH having four wheels W each having a tyre T mounted on a wheel hub (not shown). The wheels W (and the tyres T) are identified herein based on their relative position on the vehicle VH, namely: front left (FL), front right (FR), rear left (RL) and rear right (RR). This nomenclature is employed to identify the components of the CTIS 1 associated with the respective tyres T. The front tyres TFR, TFL are mounted on a front axle and the rear wheels TRR, TRL are mounted on a rear axle of the vehicle.

The CTIS 1 comprises four pneumatic control valves PCV fixedly mounted to the wheel hubs and arranged to control the supply of compressed air to and from a respective tyre cavity. The pneumatic control valves PCV are pneumatically operated in response to changes in the pressure in the associated tyre supply line TSL. Specifically, the pneumatic control valves PCV are operable to cycle sequentially (i.e. to toggle) between an open state and a closed state in response to the application of a pressure exceeding a valve activation pressure. The pneumatic control valves PCV are stable in both the open and closed state via a latching mechanism, i.e. they can each be considered as a pressure actuated bi-stable valve. Herein the application of air at a pressure and time sufficient to switch the valve from one state to its other state, i.e. from open to closed or from closed to open, is referred to as "toggling" the valve, and the application of said air in this manner is referred to as a high pressure (pneumatic) control signal. W02011028346 discloses a suitable pneumatic control valve PCV for this application.

The CTIS 1 further comprises a valve block 3 for controlling the supply of compressed air to each of the pneumatic control valves PCV. The valve block 3 is fluidly coupled to a first compressed air source 5 via inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 and a second compressed air source 7 via high pressure supply valve VHPS. The first compressed air source 5 provides air at a high flow rate and low pressure (HF/LP) whilst the second compressed air source 7 is operable to provide air at a higher pressure. As described herein, the first and second compressed air sources 5, 7 are distinct from each other. In the present embodiment, the first compressed air source 5 comprises a compressor 9 whilst the second compressed air source 7 comprises a reservoir 13, selectively pressurised by the compressor 9 by opening a reservoir supply valve VRES and ensuring inlet valves VIN1, VIN2, VHPS are closed.

The CTIS 1 is configured to pressurise the reservoir 13 to a predetermined pressure so as to enable the reservoir 13 to provide air at higher pressure than that supplied directly to the wheels to inflate the tyres T. Tyre inflation is accomplished by closing reservoir valve VRES, opening valve block inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 and opening one or more valve block outlet valves VFRO, VFLO, VRRO, VRLO. The outlet valves supply air to tyres TFR, TFL, TRR and TRL respectively.

The pressure of air supplied by a compressor 27 (described in more detail below) is governed by the maximum required downstream pressure in the tyres T. As will be appreciated the compressor 27 will continue to supply air and build pressure until a downstream sensor detects that the required pressure has been reached at which point the CTIS 1 terminates operation of the compressor 27. It is to be understood that the volumetric flow rate will be higher at lower pressures than at higher pressures. In some alternative embodiments the reservoir 13 of the second compressed air source 7 may be charged with air by a second compressor (not shown) which could form part of the vehicle air suspension and could be controlled indirectly by the CTIS 1, for example via one of two electronic control units (ECUs) ECU1, ECU2 of the CTIS 1 discussed in more detail below.

The activation pressure of each said pneumatic control valve PCV is below the pressure of the second compressed air source 7. In this manner the second compressed air source 7 can be applied for a short duration to switch one or more selected pneumatic control valves PCV from a closed state to an open state, and vice versa.

A reservoir pressure sensor 14 is provided in fluid communication with the reservoir 13 for measuring the pressure of air in the reservoir 13. The sensor 14 outputs a signal P3 indicative of the pressure of air in the reservoir 13 to main ECU ECU1. Thus the ECU1 is able to ensure that the pressure of air in the reservoir 13 is sufficient to operate the PCVs when required.

As noted above, the CTIS 1 has two ECU's, ECU1 and ECU2. The main ECU1 is referred to as ECU1 whilst the second ECU which purpose is to monitor ECU1 is referred to as ECU2.

ECU1 is configured to provide electrical output signals 511 to control operation of the electrically actuated valves of the CTIS 1 including valves of the valve block 3 and signals S12 to control operation of the compressor 9 via first and second compressor motor relay switches 271, 27_2 respectively. Monitor ECU ECU2 is configured to provide a monitoring function and is arranged to terminate a supply of power to the ECU1 in the event that certain predetermined conditions are met, described in more detail below. Power to the ECU1 is provided by means of a power supply relay 49 (FIG. 1 B). The power supply relay 49 may be caused to terminate supply of power to ECU1 in dependence on signal S12 output by the monitor ECU ECU2. The monitor ECU ECU2 also communicates with ECU1 in the event that the monitor ECU ECU2 determines, by reference to signals received by the monitor ECU ECU2, that behaviour of the main ECU ECU1 is not as expected for normal operation of the main ECU ECU1.

The ECU1 outputs a signal S1 indicative of the operating mode of the CTIS 1 at a given moment in time, a signal S2 indicative of the actual and target pressures of the tyres TFR, TRL of front wheels W of the vehicle VH, and an ECU1 speed limit request signal S9 when required. Signal S9 indicates whether a first (DS1) or second (DS2) speed limit value V DS1, V_DS2 is requested by the main ECU1. In the present embodiment, V_DS1 is 40km/h whilst V_DS2 is 90km/h. Other values of speed limit value may be useful in some embodiments.

The signal S9 is output by the main ECU1 to an ABS module 73 and PCM module 71. In turn, ABS module 73 outputs to ECU1 and ECU2 a signal S5 indicative of the value of any speed limit (DS1 or DS2) that is being imposed on vehicle operations by the ABS module 73 at a given moment in time. Similarly, the PCM module 71 outputs to ECU1 and ECU2 a signal S4 indicative of the value of any speed limit (DS1 or DS2), if any, that is being imposed on vehicle operations by the PCM module 71 at a given moment in time.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the monitor ECU ECU2 also outputs a monitor ECU ECU2 speed limit request signal S10. Signal S10 indicates whether the lower (DS1) or upper (DS2) speed limit value is requested by the monitor ECU2. The signal S10 is output by the monitor ECU2 to the ABS module 73 and to the powertrain control module (PCM) 71. In the present embodiment the PCM module 71 and ABS module 73 are each configured to impose a speed limit on vehicle operations if both of signals S9 and S10 indicate that a speed limit request is being made by both of the ECU's ECU1, ECU2. Both ECU's ECU 1 and ECU 2 use signals S1 and S2 to physically check the driver's request regarding operating mode and the plausibility of a speed limit (if any of the off road modes is selected by the driver).

PCM module 71 and ABS module 73 send signals S4 and S5 prior to application of a speed limit, thus validating the correlation of S10 and S9. Upon correlation of S10 and S9 ECU2 informs ECU 1 via signal S7 that the speed limit has been applied by the PCM module 71 and ABS module 73, hence the new mode selected by the driver can be now enabled (ECU1 and ECU2 requested the same speed limit). If either of S4 or S5 are in a fault state (due to S9 and S10 not correlating, or an internal ABS/ PCM fault) then ECU1 assume the corresponding safe state. Should ECU1 fail to do this, ECU2 will enter a higher safe state which includes actuating power supply relay 49 which cuts the supply of power to ECU1. Furthermore, all electrically actuated valves of the CTIS1 have a spring return mechanism to cause them to assume a close state in the event that a supply of power to the valves is cut.

ABS module 73 also calculates a value of vehicle reference speed VREF and outputs a signal S3 indicative of the prevailing value of VREF. In the present embodiment the value of VREF is set equal to the speed of the second slowest turning road wheel, the speed of the road wheels being determined by means of wheel speed sensors (not shown). In the present embodiment, signal S3 is received by each of the ECU's ECU1, ECU2.

A tyre supply line TSL is provided to supply compressed air from the valve block 3 to each tyre T. Specifically, the CTIS 1 comprises a front left tyre supply line TSLFL, a front right tyre supply line TSLFR, a rear left tyre supply line TSLRL and a rear right tyre supply line TSLRR. The pneumatic control valves PCV are provided at the ends of the tyre supply lines TSL to control the supply of compressed air to the respective tyres T. A section of each tyre supply line TSL extends along the respective vehicle axles to supply compressed air to the pneumatic control valves PCV mounted in each wheel hub. A rotary air coupling (RAC) is provided in each tyre supply line TSL to provide a fluid coupling to supply compressed air from the valve block 3 to the section of each tyre supply line TSL disposed in the vehicle axle.

The valve block 3 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figure 1B. The valve block 3 comprises a pair of low pressure inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 and a high pressure inlet valve VHPS. The low pressure inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 operatively control the supply of compressed air from the first compressed air source 5 which is connected to the valve block 3 by a first supply line 17. The high pressure inlet valve VHPS operatively controls the supply of compressed air from the second compressed air source 7 which is connected to the valve block 3 by a second supply line 19.

The valve block 3 comprises four outlet valves (collectively referenced as VO) for controlling the supply of compressed air to the respective tyre supply lines TSL. In particular, the valve block 3 comprises: a front left outlet valve VFLO for controlling the supply of compressed air to the front left tyre supply line TSLFL; a rear left outlet valve VRLO for controlling the supply of compressed air to the rear left tyre supply line TSLRL; a front right outlet valve VFRO for controlling the supply of compressed air to the front right tyre supply line TSLFR; and a rear right outlet valve VRRO for controlling the supply of compressed air to the rear right air supply line TSLRR. The outlet valves VO are operable independently of each other to enable the selective supply of compressed air to one or more of the tyre supply lines TSL.

The valve block 3 also comprises an exhaust valve El coupled to an exhaust line 21. The exhaust line 21 terminates with an exhaust outlet which is open to atmosphere to vent exhaust air from the CTIS 1. The exhaust valve El is operable to control the flow of exhaust air to the exhaust line 21, for example during tyre deflation.

The inlet valves VIN1, VIN2, VHPS, the outlet valves VO and the exhaust valve El are solenoid valves having a normally-closed configuration. The inlet valves VIN1, VIN2, VHPS, the outlet valves VO and the exhaust valve El are operable independently of each other and are actuated by control signals received from the ECU1 as noted above.

The compressor 9 is a dedicated compressor for the CTIS 1 and is controlled directly by the ECU1. The compressor 9 is driven by an electric motor 27 and has an operating pressure of approximately 9 bar. A dryer unit 29 is coupled to the compressor 9 partway through a first compressed air supply line 31 connecting the first compressor 9 to the valve block 3. The dryer unit 29 is configured to heat air that enters the dryer 29 in order to dry the air. A purge valve 29V is coupled to the dryer unit 29, allowing venting of air in the dryer unit 29 to atmosphere when it is required to purge the unit 29. The purge valve 29V is also controlled by the ECU1.

A fluid gallery 33 is provided in the valve block 3. The gallery 33 is open to each of: the outlet valves VO, the inlet valves VIN1, VIN2, VHPS and the exhaust valve E1. The valve block 3 houses a pair of pressure sensors 35A, 35B arranged to measure the pressure in the gallery 33. The pressure sensors 35A, 35B output signals P1, P2 respectively to each of the ECUs ECU1, ECU2. It is to be understood that two pressure sensors 35A, 35B are provided in case one sensor becomes inoperable or outputs a false signal. The ECU's ECU1, ECU2 are configured to monitor the signals P1, P2 and to determine which of the signals is false in the event that the signals indicate substantially different pressure values P1, P2.

The gallery 33 can be selectively placed in fluid communication with one or more of the tyre supply lines TSL by opening one or more of the outlet valves VO. In the present embodiment, the pressure sensors 35A, 35B may be employed to measure the pressure in the individual tyre supply lines TSL by placing the tyre supply line TSL in fluid communication with the gallery 33. By opening the pneumatic control valve PCV associated with that tyre supply line TSL, the pressure sensor 35 can measure the air pressure in the tyre cavity (hereinafter referred to, for simplicity, as the tyre pressure).

As described above, the gallery 33 receives compressed air from each of said first and second compressed air sources 9, 13 via the low pressure inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 and high pressure inlet valve VHPS as described above. The low pressure inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 are operable to control the supply of compressed air from the first compressed air source 5 to the gallery 33. The high pressure inlet valve VHPS is operable to control the supply of compressed air from the second compressed air source 7 to the gallery 33. In use, the first compressed air source 5 is the primary source of compressed air for inflating the tyres T. One or more of the tyre supply lines TSL can be placed in communication with the first compressed air source 5 by opening one or both of the low pressure inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 and the appropriate one or more outlet valves VO. The second compressed air source 7 provides a higher pressure supply which is controlled by the second inlet valve VHPS to generate a pneumatic control signal as described above for controlling operation of one or more of said pneumatic control valves PCV to tyres for which the respective outlet valves VO are open, i.e. to toggle the valves from one stable state to the other stable state.

Specifically, the high pressure inlet valve VHPS is operated to generate the pneumatic control signal to cycle the pneumatic control valve(s) PCV in communication with the gallery 33. The pneumatic control valve(s) PCV cycle through their respective operating states in response to the pneumatic control signal and, therefore, can be operated to control the supply of compressed air to and from the respective tyres T. By opening the pneumatic control valve(s) PCV, one or more of the tyres T can be placed in communication with the respective tyre supply lines TSL. The valve block 3 can be operated to place the tyre supply lines TSL in communication with the first compressed air source 5 to inflate one or more of said tyres T or in communication with the exhaust line 21 to deflate one or more of said tyres T. Furthermore, the valve block 3 can be operated to measure the pressure of the air in the tyres T via the first and second pressure sensors 35A, 35B.

To measure an individual tyre pressure of a wheel having a closed PCV, the valve block 3 is operated to close the low pressure and high pressure inlet valves VIN1, VIN2, VHPS, and the exhaust valve El. The outlet valve VO corresponding to the tyre supply line TSL for the particular tyre is opened to place the tyre supply line TSL in fluid communication with the gallery 33. A pneumatic control signal is then generated by operating the high pressure inlet valve VHPS to open the pneumatic control valve PCV for that tyre T. The tyre T is thereby placed in communication with the gallery 33 via the corresponding tyre supply Me TSL. The pressure sensors 35A, 35B then measure the air pressure in the gallery 33 to determine the tyre pressure for that particular tyre T. Once the pressure has been measured, if no further action is required in relation to that tyre a pneumatic control signal may be generated by operating the high pressure inlet valve VHPS to close the pneumatic control valve PCV.

The CTIS 1 according to the present embodiment uses two pressure sensors 35A, 35B although it is to be understood that a single pressure sensor could be provided instead. Alternatively, more than two pressure sensors may be provided. In some embodiments, for example, a respective pressure sensor 35 could be provided in communication with each tyre supply line TSL. Equally, a separate valve block 3 could be provided for each tyre T or for each axle.

The ECU1 is programmed to control the overall operation of the CTIS 1. The ECU1 is configured to determine an inflation time or a deflation time for a given required inflation or deflation operation. The inflation time is the period of time over which compressed air must be supplied from the first compressed air source 5 to the one or more tyre(s) T to reach the target tyre pressure. The inflation time is a function of one or more of the following: the pressure differential between the target tyre pressure and the current tyre pressure (the current tyre pressure being the tyre pressure prior to inflation); the operating characteristics of the first compressed air source 5 (e.g. nominal pressure, flow rate and density); the number of tyres T which are being inflated at any given time (if more than one tyre T can be inflated simultaneously); and the volume and/or temperature of the tyre cavities.

The deflation time is the period of time over which compressed air must be vented from the one or more tyre(s) T through the exhaust valve El to reach the target tyre pressure. The deflation time is also a function of the number of tyres T being simultaneously deflated, of the current tyre pressure (i.e. the tyre pressure before deflation), of the target tyre pressure and/or the pressure differential to be achieved by tyre deflation and/or of the volume and/or temperature of the tyre cavities.

In the present embodiment, the ECU1 retrieves the inflation time and/or the deflation time from a look-up table stored in a memory device accessible to the ECU1. The look-up table can take the form of a double entry table indexed according to the current tyre pressure and the target tyre pressure. Based on the current tyre pressure and the target tyre pressure, the ECU1 can retrieve from the look-up table a value corresponding to, or representative of, the predetermined tyre inflation time for a given flow rate and air supply air pressure.

Alternatively the look-up table may give a volume of air required and the ECU1 may calculate the inflation time based on measured or estimated pressures, air density and flow rates and the retrieved volumetric air requirement. Other methods may be useful in some embodiments.

The ECU1 controls tyre inflation and/or deflation by opening and closing, as appropriate, the various valves VO, VIN1, VIN2, VHPS, El of the valve block 3. Tyre inflation and deflation can thus potentially be performed one tyre T at a time, or according to any combination of tyres T simultaneously. In the present embodiment, however, the ECU1 is programmed to simultaneously deflate all the tyres T, or in pairs, and to inflate the tyres T one at a time or, simultaneously in pairs. If deflated/inflated in pairs, the pairs of tyres T are selected according to their location at the front or rear of the vehicle VH. In this event, the tyres T are said to be deflated/inflated by the CTIS 1 'per axle'.

In the present embodiment, the ECU1 uses an algorithm to refer the current and target tyre pressures to a nominal tyre temperature of 25°C and to the case of tyre inflation of an individual tyre T. Alternatively, different look-up tables each corresponding to a tyre temperature and/or to the case of tyre inflation for two or more tyres T could be used. Compressed air losses in the CTIS 1 may affect the period of time taken for the CTIS 1 to achieve a predetermined pressure. The values stored in the look-up table could be dynamically updated to take into account the effects of said losses. The values could, for example, be updated via one or more self-learning algorithms.

The main ECU1 is in addition configured to provide information relating to the status and/or operation of the CTIS 1 to a vehicle user via a human-machine interface (HMI) 37. A dashboard (not shown) of the vehicle VH is equipped with a visual output, for example a tyre operation dial 39, to provide a user with information as to whether compressed air is being supplied to, or exhausted from, the tyre cavities. This visual output is considered to form part of the HMI 37.

The main ECU1 is programmed to implement the control strategies and procedures described herein. In the present embodiment, the ECU1 receives from a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) 43, via a vehicle controller area network (CAN) bus 45, real-time information relating to the current tyre pressures for the four tyres T of the vehicle VH by means of a signal 56. Signal 56 includes an indicator of the identity of the tyre pressure sensor from which a pressure signal is obtained and the identity of the wheel to which it is attached (e.g. front left or front right), the measured pressure of the tyre and the measured temperature of the tyre. The pressure sensors 35A, 35B coupled to the valve block 3 communicate directly with the main and monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 via electric signals P1, P2 representative of the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 35 in the gallery 33 of the valve block 3. As described earlier, the pneumatic control valves PCV and the various outlet valves VO of the valve block 3 can be configured such that the pressure sensors 35A, 35B measure a pressure which is representative of the pressure inside each of the tyres T. The TPMS 43 also monitors the temperature inside the tyres T so that the tyre pressures can be referred to a nominal temperature of 25 degrees C using appropriate algorithms, for example a thermocouple or other thermal sensor may be located in or through the hub of each wheel.

The ECU1 implements tyre inflation and/or deflation strategies as described herein on the basis of the relationship between the target tyre pressures and the current tyre pressures as measured by the TPMS 43 and/or valve block pressure sensors 35A, 35B. To do this, the ECU1 is required to control the various mechanical components of the CTIS 1. As seen in Figure 1 B, the ECU1 is configured to control the outlet valves VO via pulse width modulation (PWM) control lines S11. Via the same PWM control lines S11, the ECUl also controls a purging function of the dryer unit 29, which purges the dryer unit 29 or moist air before allowing dried air to flow to the valve block 3, the electric motor 27 which drives the compressor 9, the low pressure and high pressure inlet valves VIN1, VIN2, VHPS and the exhaust valve El. As described herein, the target tyre pressures can be manually selected by the driver of the vehicle via the human-to-machine interface (HMI) 37 or they can be automatically selected by the vehicle control system 41 on the basis of other information including vehicle driving modes. The HMI 37 communicates with the ECU1 via the vehicle CAN bus 45. It is to be understood that, as an alternative to PWM control, full cycle on/off solenoid valves could be used.

A first block diagram 100 illustrating the operating modes of the CTIS 1 is shown in Figure 2. Explanation of operation of the CTIS 1 will be made with the CTIS 1 initially in a switched off condition 101.

In the present embodiment, the CTIS 1 can be switched off by a vehicle user command and/or by switching off the engine of the vehicle VH (CONDITION 103). When the ignition is switched on (CONDITION 105) the CTIS 1 assumes a standby condition and displays the identity of the most recent mode in which the CTIS 1 operated. If the engine is then switched on and the vehicle assumes a power mode corresponding to engine running (in the present embodiment power mode 7 (PM7)), the CTIS 1 performs a system start-up check (STEP 117) to check that the components of the CTIS 1 are correctly working together and therefore capable of delivering compressed air to the tyres T. If a fault is detected whilst performing these checks (CONDITION 119) the CTIS 1 enters the System Fault Mode 111 and the vehicle user is informed accordingly. If the check is successful (CONDITION 121) the CTIS 1 enters a Maintain Pressure Mode 123. In the present embodiment the CTIS 1 then requests the user to confirm whether the user wishes to operate the CTIS 1 in a normal run mode 201 NR. If the user indicates this is desired, the CTIS 1 assumes the normal run mode 201 NR as described below. If the user does not indicate that this mode is desired, the CTIS 1 resumes operation in the mode in which it was operating when the CTIS 1 was last switched off.

In the Maintain Pressure Mode 123, the CTIS 1 operates to ensure that a current tyre pressure substantially equals a target tyre pressure for the current mode of operation of the CTIS 1 (CONDITION 125) for each of the tyres T or for any selected tyre combination (e.g. for the rear axle tyres). If for any of the tyres T the target tyre pressure is greater than the current tyre pressure (CONDITION 127), the CTIS 1 switches to an Inflate Mode 129. In the Inflate Mode 129, the ECU1 retrieves an inflation time from a look-up table stored in a memory of the ECU1 on the basis of the pressure difference between the target and current tyre pressures.

When the inflation time has elapsed (CONDITION 131) for each tyre T or for each combination of tyres being simultaneously inflated, the CTIS 1 returns to the Maintain Pressure Mode 123.

If the current tyre pressure is greater than the target tyre pressure (CONDITION 133), the CTIS 1 enters a Deflate Mode 135. In the deflate mode, compressed air is vented from one or more tyres T simultaneously and routed via one or more of the tyre supply lines TSL to the valve block 3 and, from there, to atmosphere through the exhaust valve El via exhaust line 21. On the basis of the pressure difference between the target and current tyre pressures, the ECU ECU1 retrieves the deflation time from the look-up table stored in a memory in the ECU1. When the current/actual tyre pressure reaches or substantially matches the target tyre pressure (CONDITION 137) the CTIS 1 returns to the Maintain Pressure Mode 123.

If a fault develops during the Inflate Mode 129, or during the Deflate Mode 135, the CTIS 1 enters the System Fault Mode 111.

The target tyre pressures can vary between different tyres T and for all the tyres T dependent on the vehicle driving mode. This will now be described with reference to a second block diagram 200 shown in Figure 3. The second block diagram 200 illustrates the main vehicle driving modes. There are four on-road drive modes 201, namely: an Economy Mode 201ECO; a High Speed Mode 201HS; a High Load Mode 201HL; and a Normal Run Mode 201 NR. There are also three off-road driving modes 205 and a Puncture Assist Mode 221. The off-road driving modes 205 are: a deformable surface mode 1 205DS1, deformable surface mode 2 205DS2 and a Recovery Mode 205R.

In the present embodiment the Economy Mode 201 ECO requires a target tyre pressure of 2.8 bar for the front tyres TFL, TFR and 3.0 bar for the rear tyres TRR, TRL. The High Speed Mode 201HS requires a target tyre pressure of 2.6 bar for the front tyres TFL, TFR and 2.8 bar for the rear tyres TRR, TRL. The High Load Mode 201 HL requires a target tyre pressure of 2.8 bar for the front tyres TFL, TFR and 3.0 bar for the rear tyres TRR, TRL.

The Normal Run Mode 201NR requires a target tyre pressure of 2.3 bar for the front tyres TFL, TFR and 2.5 bar for the rear tyres TRR, TRL. Off Road Mode 205DS1 requires a target tyre pressure of 1.8 bar both for the front and rear tyres TFL, TFR, TRR, TRL whilst Off Road Mode 205DS2 requires a target pressure 1.38 bar for all tyres. The Recovery Mode 205R requires a target tyre pressure of less than 1 bar both for the front and rear tyres TFL, TFR, TRR, TRL. It will be apparent to the skilled person that these tyre pressures are exemplary only and that actual tyre pressures for different conditions will be dependent upon the specific vehicle and tyres and/or other factors including vehicle load.

In the present embodiment, the Off Road modes 205DS1, 205DS2, 205R can only be assumed when vehicle speed is below the predetermined threshold speed value for each mode, being V DS1, V_DS2 and V_R respectively.

The Recovery Mode 205R may only be assumed with the vehicle VH held stationary with a foot brake or parking brake applied. The driver of the vehicle VH must then select the recovery mode 205R using HMI 37. In the present embodiment the VH must be in one of off road modes 205DS1, 205DS2 before the recovery mode 205R may be assumed. Once in the recovery mode 205R, vehicle speed is limited to 10kph although other speed limit values may be useful in some embodiments.

It is to be understood that in some embodiments one or more other values of target tyre pressure may be useful for front and/or rear tyres in one or more of the driving modes. When the vehicle switches from an Off Road Mode 205 to an On Road Mode 201, it is appropriate to inflate the tyres to achieve the target tyre pressure for the particular On Road Mode 201 that is to be assumed.

In the present embodiment, when the CTIS 1 is in an Off Road mode, i.e. one of modes 205DS1, 205DS2 or 205R, the ECU1 transmits a signal S9 to the PCM 71 and ABS 73 informing them of the identity of the mode 205DS1, 205DS2, 205R that has been assumed.

The PCM 71 and ABS 73 are arranged to impose the corresponding speed limit V_DS1, V_DS2, V_R on the vehicle VH in response to this signal. In the event that a driver attempts to accelerate the vehicle VH above the prevailing speed limit imposed during operation in an Off Road Mode 205, the PCM 71 reduces the amount of power developed by the powertrain, for example by retarding the timing of engine fuel injection and/or reducing an amount of throttle opening. In addition the ABS 73 may in some embodiments commence application of brake torque to constrain vehicle acceleration. If vehicle speed approaches the speed limit imposed during operation in an Off Road Mode 205 with the throttle pedal released, for example whilst descending an incline, the ABS 73 is configured to cause application of brake torque in order to prevent vehicle speed from exceeding the limit imposed. Other arrangements may be useful in some embodiments.

The PCM 71 and ABS 73 transmit respective signals S4, S5 to the main and monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 indicating the value of speed limit (if any) being imposed by the module 71, 73 at a given moment in time.

A transition from an Off Road Mode 205 to an On Road Mode 201 may be triggered by a driver request via HMI 37.

In some alternative embodiments, rather than imposing a speed limit on vehicle operations and preventing speed from increasing above a limit value in a given mode, the transition from an Off Road Mode 205 to an On Road Mode 203 may be performed automatically when the ECU1 determines that the vehicle reference speed VREF, given by vehicle reference speed signal S3, is greater than the speed limit being imposed at a given moment in time. In some embodiments, the CTIS 1 may automatically assume a default On Road Mode 201 such as the Normal Run Mode 201NR in the event that vehicle speed exceeds the predetermined limit for the prevailing off road mode 205 in which the vehicle is operating.

In order to transition to an On Road Mode 201 from an Off Road Mode 205, the ECU1 enters an interim tyre inflation mode 209. The ECU1 is configured to inflate the tyres T in two distinct stages. The tyre inflation procedure is performed 'per axle'.

In a first phase (STEP 211), the ECU1 causes inflation of both the front and rear tyres TFL, TFR, TRR, TRL from the current tyre pressures to an intermediate target tyre pressure of, for example 2.0 bar. In a second phase (STEP 213), the ECU1 causes inflation of both the front and rear tyres TFL, TFR, TRR, TRL from the intermediate target tyre pressure to the target tyre pressures of the particular On Road Mode 201 that is to be assumed, such as 2.3 bar for the front tyres TFL, TFR and 2.5 bar for the rear tyres TRR, TRL, in the case of the Normal Run Mode 201NR. In the described embodiment, the intermediate target tyre pressure has been set to 2.0 bar to satisfy a local legal requirement. However, other selection criteria for selecting the intermediate target tyre pressure could be used. The intermediate pressure will typically be a pressure at which it is appropriate for the vehicle VH to be driven on a road. It will be appreciated that the tyres T could be inflated in more than two stages.

It is to be understood that the reference speed value VREF indicates the current speed of the vehicle over ground as noted above. In the present embodiment, as noted above, it is generated by the ABS module 73. The vehicle VH also has a traction control system controller 77 that is configured to implement a known traction control function.

In the present embodiment, the first phase of tyre inflation (STEP 211) performed by the CTIS 1 typically requires less than one minute to inflate the tyres T from their current tyre pressure in a given Off Road Mode 205 to the intermediate target tyre pressure of 2.0 bar and the second phase (STEP 213) typically takes longer than one minute to successively inflate the tyres T from the intermediate target tyre pressure of 2.0 bar to the target tyre pressures specified for the selected On Road Mode 201. The first phase (STEP 211) can be performed when the vehicle/vehicle VH is still off road, or when the vehicle VH is about to enter the road, followed by the second phase (STEP 213) which is performed subsequently, for example when the vehicle is on the road.

In some embodiments, the intermediate target tyre pressure may be set to the lower of the target tyre pressures for the mode that is to be assumed. Thus in the case of the Normal Run Mode 201 NR the intermediate target pressure may be 2.3bar. Once all tyres have been inflated to this pressure, the rear tyres are then inflated to their target pressure of the Normal Run Mode 201NR, i.e. 2.5bar.

The Recovery Mode 205R (FIG. 3) may be activated to recover the vehicle VH, for example when a vehicle belly-out event occurs. A vehicle belly-out event refers to a situation in which the vehicle body is partially or completely supported by the ground under the vehicle instead of being supported by the tyres T. The Recovery Mode 205R may be activated automatically by the ECU1 or by the driver of the vehicle via the HMI 37. When the Recovery Mode 205R is activated, the ECU1 verifies whether an adjustable ride height of the vehicle is in the highest position setting and if not the main ECU ECU1 causes the suspension to raise the vehicle by transmitting a corresponding request to a body control module (BCM) 79 (FIG. 1A) via the CAN bus 45. The main ECU ECU1 then causes a reduction in the pressure of the front tyres TFL, TFR and the rear tyres TRR, TRL to, for example, less than 1 bar. Other pressures may be useful in some embodiments such as around 1.2 bar. The Recovery Mode 205R may only be activated when the vehicle VH is in the DS1 or DS2 Off Road Modes 205. By decreasing the tyre pressure a larger surface area of the tyre will come into contact with the ground that will increase traction between the wheel and the surface, thereby assisting in reducing wheel slip and moving the vehicle, whilst increasing the ride height lifts the vehicle body slightly to raise it off the ground.

The Economy Mode 201 ECO can be selectively activated by the user, or automatically by the ECU1, for example based on vehicle speed in some embodiments. When the Economy Mode 201 ECO is activated, the CTIS 1 operates to increase the pressure of the front tyres TFL, TFR to, for example, 2.8 bar; and the rear tyres TRR, TRL to, for example, 3.0 bar. If the vehicle is in an Off Road Mode 205, the interim step 209 is performed. If the vehicle is in another On Road Mode 201, any required increase in tyre pressure can be performed in a single phase or multiple phases, for example to maintain the pressure differential between the front and rear tyre pressures within a predefined margin.

Similarly, the High Speed mode 201HS can be selectively activated by the user, or automatically by the ECU1, for example based on vehicle speed. In some embodiments the ECU1 activates the High Speed Mode 201H5 automatically if the vehicle is in an On Road Mode 201 and vehicle reference speed VREF exceeds a threshold value. The threshold value may be any suitable value such as 60kph, 70kph, 80kph or any other suitable value.

When the High Speed Mode 201 HS is activated, the CTIS 1 operates to increase or decrease the pressure of the front tyres TFL, TFR to, for example, 2.6 bar; and the rear tyres TRR, TRL to, for example, 2.8 bar. The increase or decrease in tyre pressure can be performed in a single phase or multiple phases, for example to maintain the pressure differential between the front and rear tyre pressures within a predefined margin.

The High Load mode 201HL can also be selectively activated by the user, or automatically by the ECU1. When the High Load Mode 201 HS is activated, the CTIS 1 operates to increase or decrease the pressure of the front tyres TFL, TFR to, for example, 2.6 bar; and to the rear tyres TRR, TRL to, for example, 2.8 bar. The increase or decrease in tyre pressure can be performed in a single phase or multiple phases, for example to maintain the pressure differential between the front and rear tyre pressures within a predefined margin.

In the described embodiment, the Off Road Modes 205 need to be manually requested by the driver. When the driver requests an Off Road Mode 205, the ECU1 is programmed to deflate the tyres T to the target tyre pressure defined for the selected Off Road Mode 205.

In the described embodiment, tyre deflation from an On Road Mode 201 to an Off Road Mode 205 lasts approximately 2.5 minutes (i.e. it is comparatively slower than the tyre inflation procedure). The tyre deflation from an On Road Mode to an Off Road mode can be performed on all four tyres T at the same time or alternatively the front tyres may be deflated first and the rear tyres deflated second.

As noted above, the target tyre pressures that the CTIS 1 attempts to maintain are set depending on the vehicle driving mode, as illustrated in Figure 3. The actual or current tyre pressure can be measured by the pressure sensors 35A, 35B coupled to the gallery 33 disposed in the valve block 3. Alternatively and/or additionally, the actual or current tyre pressure may be measured by a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) 43 provided on the vehicle VH (as shown in Figure 1B). The TPMS 43 communicates wirelessly with a TPMS pressure sensor provided in each tyre T. The TPMS 43 is responsible for providing the vehicle control system 9 with substantially continuous information in respect of the current tyre pressures.

In the present embodiment, the gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B are used to check the tyre pressures after tyre inflation and/or deflation. The gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B have a faster registration and response time than current TPMS sensors and therefore use of the pressure sensors 35A, 35B to check pressures during and after inflation/deflation improves the accuracy and response speed of the CTIS 1.

Depending on the relationship between the target and current tyre pressures, the ECU1 may be configured to implement inflation and deflation strategies to try to maintain the current tyre pressure as close as possible to, or equal to, the target tyre pressures.

The CTIS 1 also has a Puncture Assist Mode 221 as shown in Figure 3. The CTIS 1 is configured to assume the Puncture Assist Mode 221 automatically if it is detected, during normal operation of the vehicle in any operating mode, e.g. not during an inflation or a deflation cycle, that pressure is reducing in one of the tyres beyond normal tolerances at a rate not exceeding a predetermined 'slow pressure loss rate' (normal tolerances including pressure changes resulting from temperature changes). In the present embodiment the Puncture Assist Mode 221 is inhibited, and not assumed, if the pressure is determined to be reducing in more than one tyre beyond normal tolerances although other arrangements may be useful.

In some embodiments, the CTIS 1 may also assume the Puncture Assist Mode 221 if the pressure drop in a tyre T exceeds a predetermined amount.

In the present embodiment, ECU1 determines the pressure of each tyre during normal operation by reference to signal 56 broadcast on the CAN bus 45 by the TPMS 43. In the present embodiment, ECU1 determines that a slow pressure loss is occurring if the pressure in a tyre is more than a predetermined amount below the target pressure with a normalised flow rate in a predetermined range. In the present embodiment the predetermined amount is 0.2bar (3psi) and the predetermined flow rate range is from around 0.4 to around 400 mbar/hour although other values may be useful.

In these circumstances it may be determined that the tyre has a non-catastrophic puncture (sometimes referred to as a slow puncture). If these conditions exist, then provided no other factors are inhibiting assumption of the Puncture Assist Mode 221, such as external vehicle functions or CTIS safety states, ECU1 causes the CTIS 1 to assume the Puncture Assist Mode 221. In the Puncture Assist Mode 221 the CTIS 1 operates to top up the tyre pressure to retain it within safe operating parameters to assist the driver to return to a safe place to stop or have the tyre changed. The CTIS 1 may cause a substantially continuous flow of gas to top-up the tyre pressure in some embodiments. In some alternative embodiments the CTIS 1 may provide an intermittent flow. When the Puncture Assist Mode 221 is assumed, a warning is displayed to the driver recommending them to stop at a safe location and change or repair the tyre.

In the present embodiment ECU1 causes the CTIS 1 to automatically increase the pressure in the tyre meeting the above mentioned pressure loss and pressure loss rate conditions to a pressure that is a predetermined amount above the target tyre pressure for the mode in which the vehicle was operating before the Puncture Assist Mode 221 was assumed. In the present embodiment the predetermined amount is 0.2bar although other values may be useful in some embodiments.

In the present embodiment, ECU1 is also configured to trigger a 'deflation sub mode' of the Puncture Assist Mode 221 if the rate of pressure loss in a tyre exceeds a predetermined value, in the present embodiment the preceding value being set substantially equal to the predetermined 'slow pressure loss rate' described above, which in the present embodiment is set to substantially 0.4bar/hour. If the pressure loss exceeds 0.4bar/hour and the pressure in the tyre is less than 0.2bar below the target pressure for the previous mode of operation.

If the deflation sub mode of operation is triggered, then, as in the case of the normal Puncture Assist Mode 221, ECU1 causes the CTIS 1 to attempt to maintain the tyre pressure at a pressure equal to a predetermined amount above the target pressure, in the present embodiment this predetermined amount is the same as in the normal Puncture Assist Mode 221 (0.2bar) but it may be different in some embodiments. for example the predetermined amount may be higher in the deflation sub mode compared with the normal Puncture Assist Mode 221, having for example a value of around 0.3, 0.4 or any other suitable value.

It is to be understood that the Puncture Assist Mode 221 is automatically selected by ECU1 and is not user selectable. However, operation of the CTIS 1 in the Puncture Assist Mode 221 may be prevented by a user by selecting a 'tyre pressure maintenance off' condition, in which the CTIS 1 does not attempt to maintain tyre pressures at the target values for the prevailing mode of operation. Other arrangements may be useful in some embodiments.

It is to be understood that, if ECU1 determines that the leakage rate of gas from a tyre exceeds a maximum CTIS-capable flow rate, ECU1 terminates inflation of the tyre and closes the PCV associated with the tyre in question. ECU1 causes HMI 37 to provide an indication to a user that catastrophic leakage is occurring and that operation of the vehicle should be terminated with immediate effect.

In the present embodiment, in the event that ECU1 determines by reference to TPMS signal 56 that a pressure drop has occurred in a tyre meeting the requirements for operation in the Puncture Assist Mode 221 ECU1 verifies the pressure in the tyre by means of the gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B independently of the TPMS 43. ECU1 achieves this by exhausting any residual pressure in the gallery 33 to atmosphere and opening exhaust valve El for a sufficient period such as 1s, 5s or any other suitable period. ECU1 then opens the gallery outlet valve VO to the tyre supply line TSL corresponding to the tyre for which the pressure drop has been detected. ECU1 then causes opening of the corresponding PCV and gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B measure the resulting pressure. Provided the gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B also indicate a pressure drop in the tyre justifying assumption of the Puncture Assist Mode 221, ECU1 causes the CTIS 1 to assume that mode 221. If the pressure values measured by the gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B do not indicate a pressure drop justifying operation in the Puncture Assist Mode 221, ECU1 does not cause the CTIS 1 to assume the Puncture Assist Mode 221 and the Puncture Assist Mode 221 is inhibited.

The main and monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 are configured to receive input signals from a number of external sensors and control units external to the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 and to monitor the signals to determine whether a fault condition corresponding to one of six predetermined groups of fault conditions exists. In the present embodiment the signals are received via a controller area network (CAN) bus 45, the sensors and control units being configured to broadcast respective fault conditions over the CAN bus 45. The ECUs ECU1, ECU2 are configured to cause the CTIS 1 to assume one of six system safe states depending on the identity of any fault conditions identified by the ECUs ECU1, ECU2. The ECUs ECU1, ECU2 may be considered to be in the system fault mode 111 when the system assumes one of the six system safe states.

SSC1 (Safe State 1) In the present embodiment the ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to assume a system safe state SSC1 in the event that any one or more fault conditions in a first group of fault conditions are detected. If a fault condition in the first group is detected the ECU1 logs the occurrence of the fault condition in a permanent (non volatile) memory 15M thereof for later review by maintenance personnel. Operation of the CTIS 1 is otherwise unaffected by the occurrence of this fault condition.

No alert is provided to a driver of the vehicle in the event that a fault of the first group is detected, and the system exits the first system safe state SSC1 once the fault has been logged.

SSC2a (Safe State 2a) The ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to assume a system safe state SSC2a in the event that any one or more fault conditions in a second group of fault conditions is detected, the following fault conditions being members of the second group: (a) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of operation of the TPMS 43.

(b) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of determination by the ECU1 of one or more tyre pressure values output by the TPMS 43 via signal S6, S6 being read from the CAN bus 45.

(c) A CAN bus signal is detected indicating a fault in respect of the signal S6 carried by the CAN bus.

It is to be understood that the TPMS 43 is employed by the CTIS 1 to monitor tyre pressure during vehicle operations when a given operating mode has been fully assumed, between changes in operating mode of the CTIS 1, whilst the gallery 33 is isolated from the tyres. During inflation and deflation processes, tyre pressure is monitored by reference to the gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B when the gallery is open to the one or more tyres being inflated and the inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 are closed as described above. Accordingly, in the event that the ECU1 determines that tyre pressure readings by the TPMS 43 may be inaccurate or unavailable, monitoring of tyre pressure between mode changes may be suspended. In the present embodiment, the ECU1 monitors the signal S6 generated by the TPMS 43 between mode changes in order to determine whether the puncture assist mode 221 (FIG. 3) should be assumed, as described above. Accordingly, in the event that safe state SSC2a is assumed the ECU1 no longer permits the puncture assist mode 221 to be assumed. However, the ECU1 otherwise permits normal operation of the CTIS 1, including inflation and deflation steps (steps 129 and 135, respectively, of FIG. 2) in order to permit assumption of modes other than the puncture assist mode 221.

Once system safe state SSC2a has been assumed the ECU1 logs the occurrence of the fault responsible for assumption of the safe state SSC2a in the memory 15M and causes the HMI 37 to display a notification to the driver that the puncture assist mode 221 is not available. The ECU1 may also cause a message to be displayed advising the driver to check the pressure of each of the tyres T of the vehicle VH.

If, during the remainder of the drivecycle, the ECU1 determines that none of fault conditions (a) to (c) exist, the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 are configured to exit safe state SSC2a and operation of the CTIS 1 continues substantially as if safe state SSC2a had not been assumed.

SSC2b (Safe State 2b) The ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to assume a system safe state SSC2b in the event that any one or more fault conditions in a third group of fault conditions is detected when a speed limit is not being imposed by the CTIS 1. In the present embodiment, a speed limit is only imposed when the CTIS 1 is operating in the DS1 or DS2 Off Road modes described above. If any one of these fault conditions is detected when the CTIS 1 is in the DS1 or DS2 modes the ECU1 causes the CTIS 1 to assume Safe State 3 described below.

The following fault conditions are members of the third group: (a) The main or monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 detect an internal fault in respect of the determination of vehicle reference speed VREF, input thereto by means of signal S3.

(b) The main or monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 detect an internal fault in respect of the issue by the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 of a speed limit request to the PCM or ABS modules 71, 73.

(c) The main or monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 detect that the value of vehicle reference speed VREF broadcast by the ABS module 73 over the CAN bus 45 and received by the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 may be erroneous. It is to be understood that the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 may detect an erroneous signal for example in the case that the signal fluctuates or jumps in value in an unexpected manner. An erroneous signal may also be detected if the signal S3 indicates a speed value of zero when the vehicle is known to be moving. For example if the indicated speed drops from a value above zero to zero at a rate exceeding a credible value of deceleration the a determination may be made that the signal is erroneous. Furthermore the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 may be configured to detect a fail low, fail high or fail sporadic condition in respect of the value of VREF transmitted by signal S3 in some embodiments.

(d) The main or monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 detect that any one of the following CAN bus signals may be faulty: (i) PCM speed limit status signal S4; (ii) ABS speed limit status signal S5; and (Hi) ECU1 speed limit request signal S9 to which the PCM and ABS modules 71, 73 subscribe.

(e) The main or monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 detect that a fault exists with the ABS module 73 in respect of the determination of VREF or in respect of limiting vehicle speed. Detection of these faults is made via receipt of CAN bus signals indicative of the fault transmitted by the ABS module 73.

(f) The main or monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 detect that a fault exists with the PCM module 71 in respect of limiting vehicle speed. Detection of this fault is made via receipt of a CAN bus signal indicative of the fault transmitted by the PCM module 71.

In the event that one of these fault conditions is detected, the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 are configured to allow inflation and deflation steps 129, 135 but to prevent assumption by the CTIS 1 of the Off Road modes DS1, DS2, 207. This is because the faults indicate that it may not be possible for the vehicle VH reliably to be prevented from exceeding a given speed limit, and therefore it is inadvisable not to allow operation in one of the Off Road modes DS1, DS2, 207.

Once system safe state SSC2b has been assumed the ECU1 logs the occurrence of the fault responsible for assumption of the safe state SSC3 in the memory 15M and causes the HMI 37 to display a notification to the driver that the Off Road modes DS1, DS2, 207 are unavailable. In addition or instead a cautionary tell-tale may be displayed on the HMI 37 such as an icon or lamp, optionally having a colour indicative of a cautionary warning such as an amber or yellow colour.

If, during the remainder of the drivecycle, the ECU1 determines that none of fault conditions of the third group exist, the ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to exit safe state SSC2b and operation of the CTIS 1 continues substantially as if the safe state SSC2b had not been assumed.

It is to be understood that the fault conditions of the third group are fault conditions that potentially compromise the ability of the vehicle VH to prevent the speed from exceeding the relevant speed limit that is imposed when operating in one of the Off Road modes DS1, DS2. Accordingly, in safe state 2b the CTIS 1 is prevented from assuming operation in one of the Off Road modes DS1, DS2.

The ECU1 continues to determine whether a fault condition requiring operation in a system safe state exists after a given system safe state has been assumed. If the ECU ECU1 determines that no fault conditions of the third group exist whilst in system safe state SSC2b, the ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to exit system safe state SSC2b. The driver notification displayed on the HMI 37 is therefore extinguished.

The ECU1 is configured such that, if the vehicle VH is shut down at key off with the CTIS 1 in system safe state SSC2b, the CTIS 1 resumes operation not in a system safe state (i.e. in a fully functional state with no warnings) when the vehicle VH is restarted at key on. Thus, the ECU1 is effectively reset and operation in a system safe state only recommences when a trigger condition is subsequently met.

SSC3 (Safe State 3) The ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to assume system safe state SSC3 in the event that a fault condition of the third group described above is met whilst a speed limit is being imposed on vehicle operations by the ECU1 or if any one or more fault conditions in a fourth group of fault conditions are detected. The following fault conditions are members of the fourth group: (a) It is determined that an error associated with measurement of gas pressure in the gallery 33 by one of the gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B has occurred. In the present embodiment, such an error is determined to have occurred if it is determined that one of signals P1 or P2 does not correspond to a valid pressure indication, one of the signals P1, P2 corresponds to a pressure that is outside of a predetermined expected range of signal values corresponding to the pressure of gas in the gallery 33, or the signals P1, P2 do not correlate sufficiently even if they are reading pressure values within a range of values that might be expected during operation of the CTIS 1, for example a value in the range from a value corresponding to atmospheric pressure (indicating a deflated tyre) to a value corresponding to the maximum allowable pressure in the reservoir 13. In the present embodiment, the signals P1, P2 are determined not to correlate if the pressure indicated by signal P2 is not within a predetermined percentage of the pressure indicated by signal P1. In the present embodiment the predetermined percentage is 10% although other values may be useful in some embodiments.

(b) It is determined that an error associated with measurement of gas pressure in the reservoir 13 has occurred. In the present embodiment, such an error determined to have occurred if it is determined that the signal P3 generated by pressure sensor 14 does not correspond to a valid pressure indication or the signal P3 corresponds to a pressure that is outside of a predetermined expected range of signal values of pressure in the reservoir 13.

(c) It is determined that an internal fault has occurred in one or both of the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 in respect of determination of pressure in the gallery 33 or reservoir 13.

(d) It is determined that a fault has occurred in respect of a power supply providing power to the gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B or the reservoir pressure sensor 14.

(e) It is determined that a CAN signal fault has occurred in respect of the pressure signal P1 generated by pressure sensor 35A.

(f) It is determined that a CAN signal fault has occurred in respect of the pressure signal P2 generated by pressure sensor 35B.

(g) It is determined that a fault exists with a signal broadcast on the CAN bus 45 indicative of the mode of operation of the CTIS 1 selected by a user via the HMI 37, whereby the ECU1 cannot reliably determine in which mode of operation the user requires the CTIS 1 to operate.

(h) It is determined that a fault exists with signal S1 broadcast over the CAN bus 45 indicative of the mode of operation of the CTIS 1 at a given moment in time.

(I) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of the HMI 37 such that a signal indicative of the mode of operation of the CTIS 1 the user requires the CTIS 1 to operate in may not be correctly transmitted by the HMI 37.

(i) It is determined that a wheel is fitted to the vehicle VH that is not compatible with operation of the CTIS 1, i.e. a wheel not permitting the CTIS 1 to perform the functions of tyre inflation and deflation.

If the system safe state SSC3 is assumed, the ECU1 is configured to force the CTIS 1 to operate in the On Road Mode 203 if the CTIS 1 is not already operating in the On Road Mode 203, and to remain in the On Road Mode 203 until key off. Upon subsequent key on, the ECU1 does not resume operation in system safe state SSC3 unless one or more conditions noted above exist.

If any one of faults (a) to (c) has been detected, the ECUs ECU1, ECU2 terminate use of pressure signals P1, P2 in order to measure pressure in the tyres and employ signal S6 generated by the TPMS 43 instead. The CTIS 1 is caused to assume the On Road mode of operation 203 and the tyres are therefore inflated to a pressure of 2.3bar in the case of the front tyres TFL, TFR and 2.5bar in the case of the rear tyres TRL, TRR.

If speed limiting is currently in place due to the CTIS 1 being in one of modes DS1 and DS2, speed limiting is stopped, in the expected manner, once the On Road mode 203 has been assumed.

All operating modes other than the On Road mode 203 are suspended and each of the four pneumatic control valves PCV are placed in the closed position, corresponding to normal running. Opening of the valves PCV is not permitted. All electrical actuators associated with the CTIS 1 are prevented from operating, such as solenoid-actuated valves such as inlet valves VIN1, VIN2, VHPS, outlet valves VO and exhaust valve El.

A notification is displayed by means of the HMI 37 that the CTIS 1 is unavailable and that tyre pressures are being returned to the On Road Mode settings. The main ECU ECU1 also logs the occurrence of the one or more faults that have been detected in the permanent memory 15M.

The ECUs ECU1, ECU2 continue to determine whether a fault condition requiring operation in a system safe state exists after system safe state SSC3 has been assumed. If the ECU1 determines that no fault conditions requiring operation in state SSC3 exist whilst the CTIS 1 is in state SSC3, the ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to exit system safe state SSC3. The driver notification displayed on the HMI 37 is therefore extinguished.

SSC4 (Safe State 4) The ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to assume system safe state SSC4 in the event that any one or more fault conditions in a fifth group of fault conditions is detected. The ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to remain in safe state SSC4 until key off once state SSC4 has been assumed. Upon subsequent key on, the ECU1 does not cause the CTIS 1 to resume operation in state SSC4 unless or until one or more conditions requiring operation in that state are found exist. The following fault conditions are members of the fifth group: (a) It is determined that an internal fault has occurred in respect of ECU1 in respect of arbitration by the ECU ECU1 between modes of operation of the CTIS 1, i.e. determination by the ECU1 which of the operating modes the CTIS 1 should assume at a given moment in time.

(b) It is determined that a fault exists with the ECU1 in respect of control of the inflation or deflation of one or more tyres, i.e. the ECU1 determines that unintended inflation or deflation of a tyre is occurring.

(c) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of output by the ECU1 of a pulse width modulation (PWM) power signal to actuate inlet valves VIN1, VIN2.

(d) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of one or both of inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 themselves.

(e) It is determined that a CAN bus signal fault exists in respect of communication over the CAN bus 45 of signal S2 indicating actual and target tyre pressure values from the ECU1 to the monitor ECU ECU2. The existence of this fault is determined in the present embodiment by reference to a CAN bus signal that specifically highlights when a fault exists in respect of a given signal.

(f) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of an air line carrying compressed air from compressor 9 via dryer 29 to valve block inlet valves VIN1, VIN2.

The following conditions also trigger the ECU1 to cause the CTIS 1 to assume system safe state SSC4, provided sufficient reserve air pressure is present in the reservoir 13 to place each of the four pneumatic control valves PCV in the closed position, corresponding to normal vehicle running: (g) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of output by the ECU1 of a control signal to actuate one or both of motor control relays 27 1, 27_2 that control the motor 27 that drives the compressor 9.

(h) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of output by the ECU1 of a control signal to control supply of power to a heater of dryer unit 29 or supply of power to a solenoid of purge valve 29V.

(i) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of output of a PWM power signal by the ECU1 to actuate reservoir supply valve VRES.

(j) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of one or both of motor 27 and compressor 9.

(k) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of the dryer 29 itself.

(I) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of the power supply relay 49 itself.

(m) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of reservoir supply valve VRES such as a fault in respect of a solenoid actuator of the valve VRES.

(n) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of a supply of power to the motor 27 that drives the compressor 9.

If system safe state SSC4 is triggered, the ECU1 prevents operation of the CTIS 1 for the remainder of the drive cycle. Any inflation or deflation routines that may be in progress are terminated.

All air transmission paths associated with the CTIS 1 are isolated by closing all valves associated with the CTIS 1. This is accomplished by terminating supply of power to all electrical actuators including all solenoid controlled actuators associated with the CTIS 1 (such as those associated with valves other than the four pneumatic control valves PCV), causing the valves to assume a closed condition. It is to be understood that all of the valves other than the four pneumatic control valves PCV are of the normally-closed type. Termination of the supply of electrical power to the solenoids of the valves therefore causes the valves to assume a closed condition. Each of the four pneumatic control valves PCV is also placed in the closed position, corresponding to normal running, and reopening of the control valves PCV is not permitted. All operating modes of the CTIS 1 are then suspended for the remainder of the current drive cycle.

If the vehicle is currently subject to a speed Ilmitation imposed by the CTIS 1, for example due to operation in the DS1, DS2 or Recovery modes, the main ECU ECU1 continues to impose the speed limit unless the TPMS tyre pressure signal S6 indicates that all of the tyre pressures are above a threshold tyre pressure which in the present embodiment corresponds to the intermediate target tyre pressure described above in respect of the interim tyre inflation mode 209. The intermediate target tyre pressure is set to 2.0 bar in the present embodiment in order to satisfy a local legal requirement minimum road legal pressure however other values may be useful in some embodiments. In some embodiments the speed limit is imposed unless the TPMS tyre pressure signal S6 indicates that the tyre pressures are at or above the pressures required for the Normal Run Mode 201NR.

A notification is displayed by means of the HMI 37 that the CTIS 1 is unavailable and that tyre pressures are remaining at their current settings. A warning may also be issued to recommend that the driver should manually check the tyre pressures and modify them if necessary. If a speed limit is being imposed on the vehicle due to operation in the DS1, DS2 or Recovery modes the HMI 37 also provides an indication that the speed limit will be imposed until manual inflation of the tyres to at least the intermediate tyre pressure value is made (or Normal Run Mode 201NR tyre pressure values in some embodiments). The notification via the HMI 37 may include the display of a cautionary tell-tale, in the present embodiment an illuminated red lamp or region of the HMI 37 indicating the relatively severe limitation that has been imposed on the capabilities of the CTIS 1. The ECU1 also logs the occurrence of the one or more faults detected in the permanent memory 15M.

The CTIS 1 remains in system safe state 4 throughout the remainder of the drive cycle unless a transition to safe state 5 (described below) is imposed.

SSCS (Safe State 5) The monitor ECU ECU2 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to assume system safe state SSCS in the event that (i) there is an insufficient reserve air pressure in the reservoir 13 to place each of the four pneumatic control valves PCV in the closed position corresponding to normal vehicle running and one or more of conditions (g) to (n) is met in respect of safe state SSC4 described above; or (H) any one or more fault conditions in a sixth group of fault conditions is detected by the monitor ECU ECU2. The following fault conditions are members of the sixth group: (a) It is determined that a fault exists in respect of output by the monitor ECU ECU2 of signal S12 to control power supply relay 49.

(b) The ECU1 experiences a fault in respect of output by the ECU1 of a PWM signal to control high pressure supply valve VHPS.

(c) The ECU1 experiences a fault in respect of output by the ECU1 of a PWM signal to control exhaust valve E1.

(d) The main ECU ECU1 experiences a fault in respect of output by the main ECU ECU1 of a PWM signal to control a solenoid actuator of any of the four gallery outlet valves VO (e) A fault is detected in respect of high pressure supply valve VHPS including a fault in respect of the solenoid responsible for actuation of the valve.

(f) A fault is detected in respect of exhaust valve El including a fault in respect of the solenoid responsible for actuation of the valve.

(g) A fault is detected in respect of one or more of the outlet valves VO including a fault in respect of the corresponding solenoid responsible for actuation of a given outlet valve VO.

(h) A fault is detected in respect of operation of air reservoir 13.

(i) A fault is detected in respect of operation of a rotary air coupling RAC.

(j) A fault is detected in respect of operation of a pneumatic control valve PCV.

(k) A fault is detected in respect of an airline from the valve block 3 to a road wheel.

(I) A fault is detected in respect of operation of an airline from the valve block 3 to the reservoir 13.

(m)A fault is detected in respect of operation of an airline from the reservoir 13 to the valve block 3.

If the monitor ECU ECU2 determines that system safe state SSC5 should be assumed, the monitor ECU ECU2 causes, via signal S12, power supply relay 49 to terminate supply of power to the ECU1. Since the ECU1 is responsible for supplying power to control the electrically actuated valves of the CTIS 1 via signals S11, termination of the supply of power to the ECU1 has the effect of terminating the supply of power to all electrically actuated valves of the CTIS 1 including the inlet valves VIN1, VIN2, high pressure inlet valve VHPS, outlet valves VO and exhaust valve E1, causing them to close. This in turn causes isolation of air lines of the CTIS 1. Any inflation or deflation steps that are in progress at the time system safe state SSC5 is assumed are therefore immediately terminated and all operating modes of the CTIS 1 are suspended. The monitor ECU ECU2 logs the occurrence of the fault in a non-volatile memory 25M thereof.

If the vehicle is subject to a speed limitation by the CTIS 1 at the time system safe state SSC5 is assumed, the monitor ECU ECU2 continues to impose the speed limit on vehicle operations unless the monitor ECU ECU2 determines, by reference to signal S6 output to the CAN bus 45 by the TPMS 43, that the pressure of air in each of the tyres exceeds the corresponding intermediate target tyre pressure value described above.

In addition, the monitor ECU ECU2 is configured to resume operation in system safe state SSC5 in subsequent drivecycles, i.e. at key on following key off, until a predetermined reset operation is performed. In the present embodiment the VH is configured such that the reset operation requires connection of the monitor ECU ECU2 to a computing system, typically via the CAN bus 45, the computing system being configured to provide a control signal to the monitor ECU ECU2 to cause the monitor ECU ECU2 to exit the system safe state SSC5 at the next key on, restoring power to the ECUl.

When the monitor ECU ECU2 determines that system safe state SSC5 should be assumed, the monitor ECU ECU2 causes a notification to be displayed by means of the HMI 37 to inform a driver that a CTIS fault has been detected, that tyre pressures should be checked and adjusted if necessary, and that the CTIS is no longer available for service. If a speed limit is being imposed on vehicle operation by the CTIS 1 a corresponding notification is also provided to the driver. An audible alert may be provided to the driver in addition to the visual alert by means of the HMI 37. The driver is also informed that assistance should be sought from an authorised service agent or like service provider in order to restore CTIS operation. A warning tell-tale may be displayed such as a coloured lamp, optionally a red lamp indication.

It is to be understood that the present description of the operation of the vehicle VH of the illustrated embodiment is provided by way of non-limiting example only. In some alternative embodiments, an ECU or vehicle VH may be configured to assume one of a smaller or a greater number of system safe states in dependence on the occurrence of one or more predetermined fault conditions. The fault conditions triggering a given system safe state in one embodiment may be different to those triggering a given system safe state in another embodiment. Similarly, operation of a vehicle VH in a given system safe state may be different in some embodiments to operation of the vehicle VH in a similar system safe state in another embodiment.

As noted above, in some embodiments the ECU1 may be configured when operating the CTIS 1 in the Off Road Mode 205 to transition to the On Road Mode 203 when the value of the vehicle reference speed parameter VREF exceeds a threshold value VTHR. When the ECU1 causes the CTIS 1 to transition to the On Road Mode from the Off Road Mode, the ECU1 displays a warning to the user via the HMI 37 until the On Road Mode tyre pressure values have been attained.

When the ECU1 is causing the CTIS 1 to operate in the High Speed Mode 201 HS, the ECU1 is configured to cause the CTIS 1 to operate in the On Road Mode 203 if a user selects the On Road Mode via the HMI 37. The ECU1 is also configured to cause the CTIS 1 to operate in the On Road Mode if the user switches the CTIS 1 off whilst in the High Speed Mode. In the present embodiment, the CTIS 1 is configured to permit tyre pressure maintenance to be switched off, in which case the CTIS 1 no longer adjusts tyre pressures when in a given operating mode to maintain the pressures at the target values for the selected operating mode.

System Checks In the present embodiment the ECU1 is configured to control the CTIS 1 to perform a set of initial system checks when the vehicle VH is started, i.e. when the vehicle assumes power 20 mode PM7 from another power mode.

The first system check is a gallery pressure sensor check. In performing the check the ECU1 causes the exhaust valve El to be opened whilst the remaining inlet and outlet valves of the gallery 33 remain closed. Provided the CTIS 1 is operating correctly, the pressure of gas in the gallery 33 should become substantially equal to atmospheric pressure. The ECU1 then checks the values of signals P1 and P2 generated by the gallery pressure sensors 35A, 35B against a predetermined datum pressure value stored in a memory of the ECU1 corresponding substantially to atmospheric pressure in the present embodiment. If the values of signals P1, P2 do not correspond substantially to the datum values ECU1 determines that the CTIS 1 has failed the system check and operation of the CTIS 1 is not permitted. In the present embodiment signals P1, P2 are considered to correspond substantially to the datum value if each indicates a pressure that is within a predetermined amount of the datum pressure value. In the present embodiment the predetermined amount is substantially 5% although other values may be useful in some embodiments. In some embodiments ECU1 determines the signals P1, P2 correspond substantially to the datum value if each indicates a pressure that is in the range from around 930-1080mbar, being the maximum expected range of atmospheric pressure, and that the values are within 5% of one another.

If the CTIS 1 passes the gallery pressure sensor check, ECU1 closes the exhaust valve El and proceeds to perform a PCV valve check.

The PCV check requires ECU1 to open each of the gallery outlet valves VO and verify that signals P1, P2 remain substantially equal to the datum value. If the pressure of gas in any of the tyre supply lines TSL is above atmospheric pressure due to an open or leaking PCV, the pressure of gas in the gallery 33 will increase If ECU1 determines that the pressure of gas in the gallery 33 has increased by more than a predetermined amount, ECU1 determines that the CTIS 1 has failed the PCV check.

If the CTIS 1 has passed the PCV check, ECU1 proceeds to perform a VHPS valve check in which ECU1 checks correct operation of the high pressure supply valve VHPS and reservoir pressure sensor 14. ECU1 achieves this by first opening and closing the gallery exhaust valve El. In some embodiments the exhaust valve El is only opened and closed if a pressure rise exceeding a predetermined amount was observed during the PCV check.

ECU1 then causes supply valve VHPS to open, causing gas to flow from the reservoir 13 into the gallery 33. ECU1 then checks the pressure signals Pl, P2 and P3 to verify that any difference in pressure between the gallery 33 and reservoir 13 indicated by signals P1 and P3, and P2 and P3, is less than a predetermined amount. ECU1 then closes the supply valve VHPS. It is to be understood that, provided any difference in pressure indicated by signals P1 and P3, and P2 and P3, is less than a predetermined amount ECU1 determines that the CTIS 1 has passed the VHPS check.

ECU1 then performs a tyre supply line (TSL) check. This is accomplished by opening the gallery outlet valves VO (with valve VHPS closed) to allow pressurised gas in the gallery 33 from the reservoir 13 to flow into the tyre supply lines TSL. ECU1 monitors a drop in pressure of gas in the gallery 33, by reference to signals P1, P2. After a predetermined time period has elapsed, sufficient to cause equilibration of pressure between the gallery 33 and tyre supply lines TSL, typically around 1-3s, ECU1 causes the gallery outlet valves VO to close and exhausts gas remaining in the gallery 33 to atmosphere via gallery exhaust valve El. Pressurised gas remains trapped in the tyre supply lines TSL. Upon closing the exhaust valve El the main ECU ECU1 then causes the outlet valves VO to open, in turn, and monitors any increase in pressure in the gallery 33 via signals P1, P2. ECU1 verifies that the pressure of gas in the gallery 33 increases by at least a predetermined amount after each of the four outlet valves VO is opened, due to the presence of pressurised gas trapped in the tyre supply lines TSL. It is to be understood that, by means of the TSL check, the main ECU ECU1 is able to verify that (a) the tyre supply lines TSL are not suffering excessive leakage and (b) the outlet valves are exhibiting correct operation.

The main ECU ECU1 then performs a reservoir supply valve VRES check in which the ECU ECU1 causes opening of supply valve VRES and one of gallery inlet valves VIN1, VIN2. In the present embodiment the first gallery inlet valve VIN1 is opened. ECU1 then checks that P1 and P3 read substantially the same pressure value (to within a predetermined amount), and P2 and P3 read substantially the same pressure value (to within a predetermined amount), in a similar manner to that when conducting the VHPS check. Provided these conditions are met the ECU1 closes valve VRES and opens gallery exhaust valve El in order to exhaust gas in the gallery 33 to atmosphere and reduce the pressure in the gallery 33 substantially to atmospheric pressure. The ECU1 then repeats the process of opening supply valve VRES and the other of valves VIN1, VIN2, being the second inlet valve VIN2 in the present embodiment. The ECU1 then checks again that P1 and P3 read substantially the same pressure value (to within a predetermined amount), and P2 and P3 read substantially the same pressure value (to within a predetermined amount). Provided these conditions are met the ECU1 closes valve VRES and opens gallery exhaust valve El to exhaust gas in the gallery 33 to atmosphere and reduce the pressure in the gallery 33 back substantially to atmospheric pressure.

It is to be understood that the reservoir supply valve VRES check verifies correct operation of the reservoir supply valve VRES, reservoir pressure sensor 13, inlet valves VIN1, VIN2 and gallery exhaust valve El. It is to be understood that in checking correct operation of the exhaust valve El the ECU1 is also checking that a gas flow path from the exhaust valve to atmosphere is not blocked.

Following the system checks, the ECU1 causes each of the valves that has been tested to assume a closed condition if they were not already in such a condition.

It is to be understood that the order in which certain of the checks are performed may be different in some embodiments.

If any of the system checks has not been passed, ECU1 causes a notification to be displayed to a driver via the HMI 37. In the present embodiment the HMI 37 provides the notification via a visual output, for example by not illuminating or highlighting a CTIS icon, or displaying the icon in a predetermined colour or tone such as grey as opposed to black and white or another colour. In some embodiments an audible indication may be provided.

Driver Confirmation In the present embodiment, the driver is able to select a desired CTIS operating mode by means of the HMI 37. In the present embodiment the HMI 37 comprises a touch screen display accessible to a driver whilst driving. The driver is able to select any available mode by reference to the HMI 37, which communicates driver mode selection to the ECU1. In the present embodiment the HMI 37 does not permit a driver to select a CTIS operating mode that is not available at the time.

If all CTIS 1 operating modes are available, the HMI 37 displays the current mode in which the CTIS 1 is operating and a list of other available modes. The HMI 37 requests a user to select the desired mode by touching the region of the touch-screen in which the desired mode is displayed. By way of example, if the CTIS 1 is operating in the normal-run mode, the HMI 37 may display the following: "CURRENT MODE: NORMAL-RUN Normal-run Economy High Speed High Load Off Road 1 Off Road 2 Recovery" Upon receipt of a signal indicating that the driver wishes to change the CTIS operating mode, ECU1 causes the HMI 37 to display a message indicating the identity of the mode requested by the driver, and asks the driver to confirm that the mode they have selected is the mode they wish the CTIS 1 to assume. ECU1 causes the HMI 37 to display a button on the touch-screen for the driver to touch to confirm that the indicated mode is correct. In the present embodiment the button is displayed until the driver touches the button, but is erased after a predetermined time period has expired. In the present embodiment the predetermined time period is 3s although other values such as 2s, 5s or any other suitable value may be useful in some embodiments. If the button is erased before the driver touches it, ECU1 causes the CTIS 1 to remain in the current operating mode and not to change to the selected mode. If the driver still wishes to assume a different mode the driver must reselect the mode, and confirm the mode change within 3s by touching the button displayed.

In some embodiments a user is only required to confirm selection of a new operating mode when a new mode is selected if the new mode is an off road mode, regardless of the present operating mode. In some embodiments, a user is only required to confirm selection of a new mode if an off road mode 205 is selected whilst the vehicle is operating in an on-road mode 201.

In the present embodiment the HMI 37 displays the following text when a different mode is selected, in the present example the economy mode: "Economy mode selected: press to confirm selection" It is to be understood that the feature that ECU1 verifies driver selection has the advantage that if a driver inadvertently selects a different mode, or inadvertently selects a mode other than the desired mode, the driver is able conveniently to prevent the CTIS 1 from causing the change in mode by ignoring the request to confirm. It is to be understood that inadvertent selection of an on-road mode such as normal run mode 201NR when driving off-road may be inappropriate and result in increased difficulty traversing a terrain.

In some embodiments the HMI 37 also displays a button the touching of which causes the HMI 37 to cancel the request to the driver to confirm the selection, and cancel the change in operating mode. The CTIS 1 therefore continues operating in its current mode and the driver is invited again to make a selection from the list of available operating modes.

In some embodiments, if the driver selects an off-road mode whilst operating in an on-road mode, the HMI 37 provides one or more warnings to the driver. For example, the HMI 37 may provide one or more indications such as (a) they should drive carefully, (b) they should avoid sharp turns and (c) they should avoid heavy braking. The HMI 37 may require that the driver confirm they have read the indications by pressing a button before ECU1 permits a change in operating mode.

The HMI 37 may display an indication to the driver that one or more constraints have been placed on vehicle operation when operating in certain CTIS operating modes. For example, when operating in an off-road mode the HMI 37 may provide a message indicating that vehicle speed has been limited to the predetermined speed limit value, for example: "caution: vehicle speed limited to 80kph" In some embodiments, a speedometer of the vehicle having a vehicle speed scale and indicator for indicating actual speed against the scale, such as a needle, may cause a portion of the scale corresponding to an available speed range to be illuminated or otherwise highlighted in contrast to speeds above the available range.

EPAS and ABS The vehicle has an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system controlled by an EPAS module 81. The EPAS module 81 controls an electrical steering assist actuator 83 that applies torque to a steering rack of the vehicle VH when a user turns a steering wheel 80 of the vehicle in order to reduce the amount of torque that a user is required to apply to the steering wheel 80 of the vehicle VH in order to turn the wheel 80 at a given moment in time.

The EPAS module 81 is configured to receive a signal from ECU1 via the CAN bus 45 indicative of the pressure of the tyres of the vehicle VH. The EPAS module 81 determines the amount of assistance provided by the actuator 83 at a given moment in time in dependence on vehicle speed, by reference at least in part to vehicle reference speed signal VREF and the pressure of the tyres of the vehicle VH, optionally via a look-up table. It is to be understood that, the lower the tyre pressures, the greater the amount of assistance the EPAS module 81 causes to be provided, at a given moment in time. In some embodiments the EPAS module 81 receives a signal indicative of the operating mode of the CTIS 1 instead, being a signal indicative of tyre pressure, and determines the amount of assistance to be provided in dependence on the operating mode, optionally via a look-up table.

The ABS module 73 is also configured to receive a signal from ECU1 via the CAN bus 45 indicative of the pressure of the tyres of the vehicle VH. It is to be understood that the ABS module 73 controls a number of active safety features of the vehicle VH that employ braking when required to enhance vehicle safety. The performance of these safety features can be affected by tyre pressure. Accordingly, in the present embodiment the ABS module 73 is configured to tune the control of these safety features according to tyre pressure.

The active safety features employing braking in the present embodiment are: (a) anti-lock braking; (b) dynamic stability control (DSC) system (c) roll stability control (RSC) system (d) trailer anti-sway system In the present embodiment, the ABS module 73 tunes the anti-lock braking feature by adjusting the threshold values of wheel slip in dependence on tyre pressure. It is to be understood that lower tyre pressures result in a larger contact patch between the tyre and driving surface, and therefore enhanced tractive capability. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, the ABS module 73 reduces the threshold values of wheel slip that trigger the anti-lock braking feature. Anti-lock braking systems are well known and will not be described in detail herein. However, it is to be understood that the ABS module 73 is configured to reduce the amount of brake force or torque applied to one or more wheels when the amount of slip exhibited by the wheel exceeds a predetermined amount. In some embodiments the ABS module 73 reduces the amount of brake force or torque applied to wheels of an axle when the amount of slip exhibited by a wheel of that axle exceeds a predetermined amount.

DSC functionality implemented by ABS systems is well known and will also not be described in detail herein. However it is to be understood that the ABS module 73 is configured to implement DSC functionality by torque vectoring in order to attempt to maintain the vehicle yaw rate substantially equal to a target yaw rate based at least in part on steering wheel angle. The ABS module 73 implements torque vectoring by applying brake force to one or more wheels to initiate understeer in the case the vehicle experiences excessive oversteer, and to initiate oversteer in the case the vehicle experiences excessive understeer.

It is to be understood that, the lower the pressure of tyres in a vehicle, the more the vehicle is likely to roll when cornering due to flexing or folding of the tyres, but the greater the potential tractive force between a wheel and ground for a given driving surface. Accordingly, the ABS module 73 is configured to apply brake force to one or more wheels to correct yaw rate error when the yaw rate error exceeds a threshold value that reduces with decreasing tyre pressure. Accordingly, the ABS module 73 causes the DSC functionality to be of greater sensitivity to yaw rate error as tyre pressure decreases.

RSC functionality is also well known and will not be described in detail herein. However it is to be understood that the ABS module 73 is configured to implement RSC functionality by torque vectoring in order to attempt to prevent excessive roll of the vehicle VH. The ABS module 73 implements torque vectoring for the RSC functionality in a similar manner to the DSC functionality, by applying brake force to one or more wheels to initiate oversteer in the case the vehicle experiences excessive roll. That is, if the roll angle exceeds a predetermined value due to cornering, the ABS module 73 applies brake force to one or more wheels acting to cause yaw in an opposite direction to the direction of turn, to reduce the roll angle. The ABS module 73 is configured to reduce the critical value of roll angle, for a given steering angle and vehicle speed, as tyre pressure reduces.

In some embodiments the ABS module 73 may be configured to implement an anti-away functionality when the vehicle VH is towing. The anti-away functionality is implemented by torque vectoring, typically by means of braking, in order to reduce sway as the vehicle is moving, whether in a straight line or during cornering. Again, anti-away functionality is well known and will not be described in detail herein. The ABS module 73 is configured to set the threshold value of yaw rate error that trigger anti-sway functionality in dependence on vehicle tyre pressures. In some embodiments the threshold values are arranged to decrease with decreasing tyre pressures due to the increased tendency of the vehicle to sway due to folding of tyres as tyre pressure reduces.

As noted above, the ABS module 73 and EPAS module 81 are configured to monitor signals broadcast on the CAN bus 45. In the event that ECU1 broadcasts a signal indicative that the value of one or more tyre pressures broadcast on the CAN bus 45 are unreliable, the ABS module 73 and EPAS module 81 are configured to employ a default set of tyre pressures for aspects of their operation requiring a knowledge of tyre pressure. In the present embodiment, the ABS module 73 and EPAS module 81 are configured to assume that the tyre pressures are those normally assumed when the CTIS 1 is in the normal run mode 201NR, which in the present embodiment corresponds to a pressure of substantially 2.3bar for the front tyres and 2.5bar for the rear tyres. It is to be understood that, in the event of a fault associated with the CTIS 1, it may be expected that a driver will endeavour to drive the vehicle VH to a service or repair facility, requiring on-road driving, and that therefore the driver is likely to operate the vehicle VH with tyre pressures suitable for on-road driving. Operation of the ABS module 73 and EPAS module 81 using tyre pressures corresponding substantially to the normal run mode 201NR is therefore likely to provide acceptable performance of those systems under these circumstances.

Some embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that vehicle systems such as those controlled by the ABS module 73 and/or EPAS module 81 may be configured to adapt their operation to the prevailing tyre pressures in order to enhance vehicle performance and/or composure. Furthermore, in the event of a fault in respect of tyre pressure values broadcast on the CAN bus 45, the vehicle systems employ default values of tyre pressures that are most likely to provide acceptable performance of those systems.

Tyre Life Counter It is to be understood that operation of vehicles at lower tyre pressures than those used for on-road driving, such as at tyre pressures suitable for off-road driving on relatively slippery terrain, can result in accelerated tyre wear. This may be at least in part due to increased flexure of sidewalls of a tyre due to the reduced pressure. The enhanced traction due to increased contact area between tyre and driving surface is nevertheless advantageous for off-road driving in a number of scenarios including wet grass and sand.

In order to reduce problems associated with increased tyre wear due to operation at reduced tyre pressures, some embodiments of the present invention are configured to monitor tyre use and to predict when a tyre is approaching or has reached an end of useful life.

In the present embodiment ECU-I is configured to implement a tyre life counter function in which ECU1 increments a counter at a rate that is dependent on the following vehicle parameters: (a) tyre pressure (b) tyre temperature (c) vehicle speed (d) lateral tyre loading (e) longitudinal tyre loading Vehicle tyre pressure and tyre temperature are determined by reference to signal 56 published on the CAN bus 45 by the TPMS 43. In the present embodiment, the TPMS 43 determines tyre pressure and temperature of each wheel by reference to wireless signals transmitted by tyre pressure monitoring devices 100M attached to each wheel rim 100W of the vehicle VH as shown in FIG 4. The devices 100M transmit a unique identification code along with their respective temperature and pressure signals. The TPMS 43 is able to determine the location of each device 100M by reference to the identity of the antenna receiving the signal from the respective device 100M, or the antenna receiving the strongest signal from the respective device 100M. The TPMS 43 then broadcasts the pressure and temperature of each tyre, with an indicator of the location of the tyre (e.g. front left, front right etc.), on the vehicle CAN bus 45.

Vehicle speed is determined by ECU1 be reference to vehicle reference speed signal VREF.

Lateral tyre loading is determined by reference to a lateral acceleration signal generated by the ABS module 73 whilst longitudinal tyre loading is generated by reference to a longitudinal acceleration signal also generated by the ABS module 73. It is to be understood that one or more other modules may generate the lateral acceleration signal and/or longitudinal acceleration signal in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the tyre life counter function may take ambient temperature into account. Ambient temperature may be determined by reference to an ambient temperature signal 79TS generated by the BCM 79 by reference to an ambient temperature sensor 79T. Although in the present embodiment the BCM 79 generates the ambient temperature signal 79TS, in some embodiments other control modules may generate the temperature signal 79TS.

ECU1 is configured to monitor each of parameters (a) to (e). Each time the value of a parameter falls meets a timer change condition, for example by falling below a predetermined threshold value or exceeding a predetermined threshold value, depending on the parameter, the ECU1 causes a timer to begin changing at a predetermined rate, to indicate an increase in an amount of wear that has been suffered by a tyre. If more than one parameter meets the timer change condition the ECU1 may cause the time to change at a higher rate. In the present embodiment the timer is arranged to increase in value with increasing wear but in some alternative embodiments the timer may be arranged to decrease in value with increasing wear.

In the present embodiment, if tyre pressure falls below a predetermined tyre pressure value pressure threshold, the ECU1 increments the value of tyre life counter by a predetermined amount, tyre pressure increment, for each 100ms for which the value of tyre pressure value is below the value of pressure threshold. In the present embodiment the value of pressure threshold is around 2bar although other values may be useful. Other periods of time between increments of tyre life counter may be useful in some embodiments such as 10ms, 500ms, 1s or any other suitable value provided it results in the value of tyre life counter being incremented at a sufficiently high rate. It is to be understood that in the present embodiment ECU1 also increments the value of tyre life counter even when the vehicle is shut down and stationary, e.g. in power mode PMO corresponding to a parked, locked and unattended vehicle, in order to account for tyre degradation even when the vehicle VH is substantially stationary. In some embodiments the value of tyre life counter is not changed when the vehicle is stationary.

If the value of tyre temperature rises above a predetermined value temperature threshold, in the present embodiment a value of 40C, ECU1 increments the value of tyre life counter by a predetermined amount, tyre_temperature_increment, for each 100ms for which the value of tyre temperature value is above the value of temperature threshold. In some embodiments the value of tyre_pressure_increment may be set in dependence on the tyre temperature, being higher at higher temperatures to reflect an increased rate of tyre degradation, such as drying and embrittlement, at higher temperatures. Similar, the rate may increase with decreasing temperature below a predetermined value, such as below OC, -10C or any other suitable value. This is so as to reflect possible increased degradation of the tyre at relative harsh, low temperatures. The ECU1 may be configured to increase the rate at which the value of tyre life counter changes so that it changes at a higher rate for a given distance travelled or time spent at a given speed at tyre temperatures below a given temperature threshold compared with a tyre temperature just above the threshold, reflecting an increased rate of wear when the vehicle is operated at relatively low tyre temperatures.

Similarly, the ECU1 may be configured to increase the rate at which the value of tyre life counter changes so that it changes at a higher rate for a given distance travelled or time spent at a given speed at tyre temperatures above a given temperature threshold compared with a temperature just below the threshold, reflecting an increased rate of wear when the vehicle is operated at relatively high tyre temperatures.

ECU1 may be configured such the value of tyre_life_counter is changed so as to indicate increased tyre wear each time a predetermined period elapses, such as every 100ms, by an amount that is directly proportional to vehicle speed. For example the value of tyre life counter may be incremented by an amount substantially equal to speed x speed increment where the value of speed increment is substantially constant. In some embodiments the value of speed increment may be dependent on one or more parameters such as vehicle speed itself, tyre pressure, and/or one or more other parameters. the value of speed increment may be dependent on vehicle speed itself so as to reflect an increased rate of tyre degradation at certain speeds, such as speeds exceeding 20kph, 30kph or ay other suitable value.

ECU1 may be configured to increment the value of tyre life counter by a predetermined amount, tyre lateral increment, for each 100ms for which the value of lateral acceleration of the vehicle is above a threshold value lateral threshold. Similarly, ECU1 may be configured to increment the value of tyre_life_counter by a predetermined amount, tyre longitudinal increment, for each 100ms for which the value of longitudinal acceleration of the vehicle is above a threshold value longitudinal threshold. Thus, ECU1 takes into account lateral tyre loading and longitudinal tyre loading on tyre wear/degradation. In some embodiments the value of one or both of tyre_lateral_increment and tyre longitudinal increment may be arranged to be determined in dependence at least in part on vehicle lateral acceleration and vehicle longitudinal acceleration, respectively. Other arrangements may be useful in some embodiments.

In some alternative embodiments, ECU1 is configured to monitor each of parameters (a) to (e) and to calculate, each time a predetermined time period elapses since the previous time period elapsed, the average value of each of these parameters over that time period. ECU1 sets a variable equal to the average value of each parameter at the end of each time period: A = average value of tyre pressure B = average value of tyre temperature C = average value of vehicle speed D = average value of lateral tyre loading E = average value of longitudinal tyre loading For example in some embodiments the predetermined time period is substantially 1s.

Therefore, at 1s intervals when the vehicle is in a given condition, such as a power mode corresponding to vehicle driving (in the present embodiment power mode PM7), ECU1 calculates the average value of each of parameters (a) to (e), i.e. parameters A to E, over the preceding 1s interval. ECU1 feeds the average value of each parameter into an algorithm to calculate an increment value increment value. The increment value is then added to a tyre life counter parameter tyre life counter.

In the present embodiment the tyre life counter algorithm is as follows: increment value = X1/A + X2.B + X3.0 + X4.D + X5.E where X1, X2, X3, X4 and X5 are weighting factors for parameters A to E respectively. In the present embodiment the weighting factors are constant and not changed. In some alternative embodiments one or more of the weighting factors may be adjusted in dependence on one or more parameters.

ECU1 stores in memory 15M maximum allowable values of tyre life counter for each of a predetermined number of known tyre types (according to manufacturer and product serial number) that have been approved for use with the CTIS 1. When a new tyre is fitted to the vehicle VH, a user (or authorised service personnel) may select, from the predetermined stored tyre types, the tyre type that has been fitted to the vehicle. The selection may be made via HMI 37 or by means of an external device in communication with ECU1 directly or indirectly, and cause the tyre life counter value tyre life counter to be reset to a predetermined datum value indicative of a new tyre, which is substantially zero in the present embodiment.

In some embodiments ECU1 may, in addition or instead, permit a user or authorised personnel to reset the tyre life counter value tyre life counter to the predetermined datum value, being substantially zero in the present embodiment as noted above, and input data indicative of values of parameters A to E that are appropriate to the tyre that has been fitted. ECU1 may also permit data in respect of the maximum allowable tyre life counter value tyre life counter to be input. The data input may be in the form of a string of digits, for example in the form of a code, or any other suitable format.

In some embodiments, ECU1 calculates values of parameters A to E substantially continually when in power mode PM7 regardless of the CTIS operating mode in which the vehicle VH is operating. However, in the present embodiment, ECU1 only monitors values of parameters A to E, and increments the tyre life counter value tyre_life_counter at 1s intervals, if the CTIS1 is being operated in an off road mode 205 or puncture assist mode 221. Other arrangements may be useful.

Once the tyre life counter value tyre life counter reaches the maximum allowable value, ECU1 does not permit the vehicle VH to be operated in any of the off road modes 205.

In the present embodiment, if the vehicle VH is operating in an off road mode 205 when the maximum allowable value of tyre life counter value tyre life counter reaches the maximum allowable value, ECU1 causes HMI 37 to display a message to the driver indicating that further operation in the off road mode 205 should be terminated immediately due to exhaustion of off-road tyre life. In the present embodiment ECU1 permits the vehicle to continue in a currently selected off road mode 205 for a further predetermined distance or time period such as 1 hour or 10 miles, or any other suitable values, before automatically causing the CTIS 1 to switch to the normal run mode 201 NR. If a user switches to an on-road mode 201 or exits power mode PM7 before the predetermined distance or time elapses, then future operation in an off-road mode 205 is prevented by prohibiting selection of an off-road mode 205 until the tyre life counter value tyre life counter is reset.

In some embodiments one or more parameters other than parameters (a) to (e) may be employed to determine tyre life expiry in addition or instead.

In the present embodiment ECU1 monitors tyre life in respect of each tyre individually. That is, ECU1 calculates a value of tyre life counter value tyre life counter in respect of each tyre separately, and is capable of storing data in respect of the type of each tyre on each wheel.

Thus ECU1 performs a calculation of increment value increment value in respect of each tyre separately.

In some embodiments, both the main and monitor ECUs ECU1, ECU2 are configured to calculate a value of tyre life counter value tyre life counter in respect of each tyre separately. Thus if the main ECU ECU1 is caused to lose power by the ECU2, due to a fault, ECU2 may continue monitoring tyre use and maintain a value of tyre life counter. Other arrangements may be useful in some embodiments.

Tyre Change Detection In the present embodiment the CTIS 1 may be configured to detect when a wheel is removed from the vehicle VH in order to detect when a tyre of the vehicle has been replaced. It is to be understood that, if ECU1 determines that a tyre has been replaced, ECU1 may cause the HMI 37 to request a user to confirm whether or not a new tyre has been fitted. If a user provides an indication that a new tyre has been fitted, ECU1 may cause the tyre life counter value tyre life counter stored therein to be reset to the predetermined datum value indicative of a new tyre, being substantially zero in the present embodiment as 4.8 noted above. In some embodiments the user may be invited to input an indication of the extent to which a replacement tyre has been used, for example a tyre life counter value from a vehicle to which the tyre was previously fitted.

In the present embodiment, when the HMI 37 displays a request for a user to indicate whether the tyre has been changed, ECU1 may cause the HMI 37 to prompt a user to input data in respect of the tyre that has been fitted, for example a serial number of the tyre or other data indicative of the make and/or type of tyre. Upon receipt of this data ECU1 may determine whether the tyre is approved for operation with the CTIS 1. ECU1 may also determine the maximum allowable value of parameter tyre life counter for the tyre that has been fitted by reference to data stored therein. In some embodiments the user may be required to input data indicative of the maximum allowable value of parameter tyre_life_counter before the tyre is considered to be unsuitable for off-road operation.

In some embodiments ECU1 may prompt a user to perform an operation allowing ECU1 to verify that a tyre has been fitted for which operation of the CTIS 1 in an off road mode 205 is approved. For example, the user may be prompted to run a computer software application ('app') on a computing device that is configured to transmit data to the CTIS 1 receipt of which by ECU1 enables ECU1 to determine whether a tyre that has been fitted is approved for operation of the CTIS 1 in an off-road mode 205. Details of this process are described in more detail below.

In the present embodiment the vehicle VH is provided with wheel presence sensors in the form of wheel hub switches 100HS as illustrated in FIG. 4. Each wheel hub 100H of the vehicle VH, to which a wheel rim 100W bearing a tyre T is attached, is provided with a push-to-make (PTM) wheel hub switch 100HS. The switch 100HS protrudes laterally outwards from a face of the wheel hub 100H against which the wheel rim 100W is pressed when the rim 100W is fitted to the vehicle VH. Fitting of a wheel rim 100W causes the switch to be depressed, causing the switch to assume an electrically closed condition. Removal of the wheel rim 100W causes the switch to assume an electrically open condition. ECU1 is configured to receive a signal indicative of the state of the wheel hub switch 100HS of each wheel hub 100H. In the event ECU1 determines that a wheel has been removed (due to opening of a wheel hub switch 100HS) and a wheel subsequently fitted (due to closing of the wheel hub switch 100HS), ECU1 causes the HMI 37 to request a user to indicate whether a new tyre T has been fitted, as described above. It is to be understood that a wheel rim 100W may be removed from a vehicle VH for reasons other than tyre replacement, such as for brake maintenance, and therefore ECU1 requests the user to indicate whether tyre replacement has taken place and therefore whether ECU1 is required to prompt the user to input an indication of the type of tyre that has been fitted.

It is to be understood that, in some embodiments, other types of sensor may be used to detect removal and refitting of a wheel. For example, in some embodiments a sensor may be employed that determines whether a wheel rim 100W is present or not based on one or more of electrical resistance, such as electrical resistance between a pair of electrodes, an amount of a capacitance sensed by a sensor that is dependent on the presence or absence of a wheel, optical detection, pressure sensing or any other suitable means. In some embodiments a wheel hub removal sensor may be arranged to monitor the amount of capacitance across two or more electrodes, the amount of capacitance depending on whether a wheel rim 100W is fitted to a wheel hub 100H. Other arrangements may be useful in some embodiments.

In some embodiments the CTIS 1 is configured to track, by means of ECU1, individual wheel rims 100W by tracking the tyre pressure monitoring devices 100M attached to each wheel rim 100W as shown in FIG 4. The tyre pressure monitoring devices 100M form part of the TPMS 43 and are arranged to communicate wirelessly with TPMS controller 43C. Each wheel hub 100H is provided with an antenna for receiving the wireless signal transmitted by the pressure monitoring device 100M attached to the wheel rim 100W attached to that hub 100H. The TPMS controller 43C receives a signal from each antenna containing the signal transmitted by the associated pressure monitoring device 100M and is thereby able to determine the location of each wheel rim 100W individually. In some alternative embodiments a single antenna capable of determining the location of each wheel rim 100W by reference to the signals transmitted by the respective tyre pressure monitoring device 100M may be provided. Other arrangements for determining the location of a given tyre pressure monitoring device 100M may be useful.

In the present embodiment, as noted above, the TPMS 45 broadcasts on the CAN bus 45 a signal 56 that includes an indicator of the identity of the tyre pressure sensor from which a pressure signal is obtained and the identity of the wheel to which it is attached (e.g. front left or front right), the measured pressure of the tyre and the measured temperature of the tyre.

In some embodiments, ECU1 stores in its memory 15M the identity of each tyre pressure monitoring device 100M attached to a wheel rim 100W that is attached to a wheel hub 100H, the identity of the wheel hub 100H to which it is attached (e.g. front left of front right), and the most recent values of tyre temperature and pressure measured by the device 100M. When the vehicle VH is parked and exits the driving power mode, power mode PM7, ECU1 stores the most recent values of temperature and pressure ECU1 for each pressure monitoring device 100M, along with the identity of the wheel hub 100H to which the corresponding wheel 100W is attached, in a further memory location.

When the vehicle resumes power mode PM7, i.e. is restarted, ECU1 checks again the identity of the pressure monitoring devices 100M associated with each wheel hub 100H by reference to signal 56 and checks whether the devices have been detected previously. In the present embodiment ECU1 stores the pressure monitoring device identifier for each of a predetermined number of most recently detected pressure monitoring devices 100m. In the present embodiment the predetermined number is 15 but other values may be useful.

In some embodiments, if ECU1 determines that a wheel has been removed from the vehicle, by reference to hub switch 100HS, and reattached to the same of a different wheel hub 100H to its last location, ECU1 checks the temperature and pressure of the tyre T as indicated by the pressure monitoring device 100M in the wheel rim 100W to attempt to determine the likelihood that the tyre T has been changed. ECU1 takes into account ambient temperature and the amount of time that has elapsed between respective pressure and temperature readings before power mode PM7 was last exited and after power mode PM7 was last assumed. If ECU1 determines that the temperature or pressure of the tyre T as measured by the corresponding pressure monitoring device 100M is sufficiently different from the stored values received by ECU1 when power mode PM7 was last exited, ECU1 causes the HMI 37 to invite a user to indicate whether a tyre has been changed. If the temperature and pressure are consistent with the same tyre being present ECU1 does not cause the HMI 37 to invite the user to indicate whether a tyre has been changed. If a tyre has been changed and a user is not invited to indicate that a change has taken place, a user may manually inform ECU1, via HMI 37, that a tyre change has taken place, if appropriate.

In some embodiments the CTIS 1 is unable to determine whether a wheel has been removed from a wheel hub 100H by reference to a wheel rim presence detector (which in the case of the present embodiment is in the form of wheel hub switch 100HS). Rather, ECU1 may either rely on a user informing ECU1 that a tyre has been changed, or attempt to determine whether a wheel may have been removed and a tyre replaced by reference to other data. In some embodiments, ECU1 may refer to the data in respect of location on the vehicle of each individual pressure measurement device 100M (by reference to the identifier transmitted by the devices 100M to the respective wheel hub 100H) and the temperature and pressure read out by the pressure measurement device 100M upon resumption of power mode PM7 relative to that when power mode PM7 was last exited, as described above.

If the location of a particular pressure measurement device 100M has changed, for example a wheel that was located at a front left of the vehicle when power mode PM7 was last exited is now located at a rear right of the vehicle VH, ECU1 causes the HMI 37 to invite a user to indicate whether a tyre has been changed. Similarly, if the temperature and pressure values output by a given pressure measurement device 100M following resumption of power mode PM7 are not consistent with those read out when power mode PM7 was last exited, ECU1 causes the HMI 37 to invite a user to indicate whether a tyre has been changed.

In some embodiments, the TPMS 43 may be configured to monitor tyre pressure even when the vehicle VH is switched off, for example in power mode PMO. It is possible that a pressure monitoring device 100M remains within the range of radio reception by the vehicle VH of the signal transmitted by the device 100M (around 50m in some embodiments) during the tyre change. Accordingly the TPMS 43 may detect that the pressure in a tyre falls substantially to atmosphere, indicative of a flat tyre (and potentially of a tyre change) during the tyre change. If the TPMS 43 detects such a pressure change, the TPMS 43 may inform ECU1 which may in turn determine that a tyre T has been changed and prompt a user to indicate whether a tyre T has been changed.

In some embodiments, the pressure monitoring devices 100M may be configured to set a flag in a memory thereof when a pressure of the tyre T falls below a predetermined value, indicative of a flat tyre. Accordingly, regardless of whether the TPMS 43 remained in communication with a pressure monitoring device 100M during a period when the tyre was changed, the TPMS 43 may be able to detect that the device 100M was exposed substantially to atmospheric pressure by reference to the flag. The TPMS 43 may communicate this information to ECU1, enabling ECU1 to determine that the tyre T may have been changed, once the device 100M is again within radio range. The device 100M may be configured to reset the flag in response to a signal transmitted by the TPMS 43 indicative that the device 100M may reset the flag, once the TPMS 43 is in radio communication with the device 100M and has detected that the flag was set.

Intelligent tyres In some embodiments each tyre T (as opposed to each wheel rim 100W) may be fitted with an intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT (as shown in dotted outline in FIG. 4). Each intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT may output a signal indicative of the identity of the monitoring device and one or more parameters associated with the tyre T including tyre pressure and temperature. In some embodiments the intelligent tyre monitoring devices 100MT may be capable of outputting a signal indicative of tread depth and a static load on the tyre. In some embodiments the intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT may be fitted to the tyre in place of a monitoring device 100M being fitted to the wheel rim 100W although in some alternative embodiments the intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT may be fitted to the tyre T and in addition a monitoring device 100M fitted to the wheel rim 100W.

In some embodiments, the intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT may be permanently attached to a tyre. Since each device 100MT is configured to transmit a wireless signal having a substantially unique identity, ECU1 is able readily to detect that a new tyre T has been fitted to a vehicle VH, based on the identity of the devices 100MT as transmitted on the vehicle CAN bus 45 by TPMS 43, by means of signal 56.

In the case of removable intelligent tyre monitoring devices 100MT, when a device 100MT is fitted to a tyre T, data in respect of the tyre T to which the intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT is fitted may be communicated to the device 100MT at the time of installation by means of an external computing device such as a handheld wireless communications device such as a tablet or smartphone running a suitable computer software application. The device 100MT may also be configured to set a flag in the event the device 100MT is exposed to atmospheric pressure.

In some embodiments the intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT may be configured to reset the flag indicative that the device 100MT has been exposed to atmospheric pressure if the sensor has been rotated a predetermined number of times whilst at a pressure above a predetermined threshold value, in the presence of tyre deformation. The device 100MT is thereby able to ensure that the tyre T to which it is fitted has been rotated whilst fitted to a vehicle VH (resulting in deformation during rotation) and not to a tyre balancing machine.

It is to be understood that if the device 100MT is removable, ECU1 may not be able to detect that a tyre T has been changed by reference solely to the unique identifier transmitted by the device 100MT.

In some embodiments where an intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT is fitted to one or more tyres T, ECU1 may be configured to attempt to detect abrupt changes in tyre tread depth transmitted by a device 100MT to the TPMS 43 and broadcast on the CAN bus 45 by the TPMS 43 in the form of signal 56. It is to be understood that in some embodiments tread depth is inferred based on detection of tyre flexure in use. The deeper the tread, the stiffer the driving face of the tyre. Accordingly, it may be necessary for the tyre T to which an intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT is fitted to rotate one or more times before the TPMS 43 is able to obtain a relatively reliable estimate of tread depth and enable ECU1 to detect a tyre change. The intelligent tyre monitoring device 100MT may be configured in some embodiments to require tyre deformation to be seen before an estimate of tread depth is generated, in order to distinguish between rotation due to a tyre balancing operation (in which the tyre is not subject to load forces due to a driving surface) and rotation during driving. Alternatively, in some embodiments the device 100MT may be capable of estimating tread depth in the absence of tyre loading. Accordingly rotating during wheel balancing may be sufficient to enable a reliable estimate of tread depth to be made. This may enable ECU1 to determine more rapidly that a given tyre has been changed.

In the event ECU1 does detect a tyre change ECU1 may cause the HMI 37 to request a user to confirm that a tyre change has taken place and input information enabling the identity of the tyre T to be determined. In some embodiments the tyre monitoring device 100M, 100MT may itself transmit information sufficient to enable the type of tyre T to be determined, and whether it is authorised for operation of the CTIS 1 in an off-road mode 205.

Tyre Sidewall Scanning It is to be understood that, in some embodiments, ECU1 may be configured only permit the CTIS 1 to assume an off-road mode 205 if ECU1 confirms that each tyre fitted to the vehicle VH is a tyre of a type that has been approved for operation of the CTIS 1. A list of tyre types that have been approved for operation of the CTIS 1 may be stored in the memory 15M of ECU1. It is to be understood that in some arrangements it may be determined that any tyre produced by a predetermined set of manufacturers and qualified by that manufacturer as an 'off road qualified tyre' may be suitable for operation of the CTIS 1. The list of tyre types that have been approved for operation of the CTIS 1 may be stored in the memory 15M of the ECU1 and the list updated when required e.g. as part of a software update release.

Accordingly, when a replacement tyre is fitted to the vehicle, ECU1 may be configured to receive data in respect of the replacement tyre and to determine, based on the data, whether the tyre is a tyre of a type that has been approved for operation of the CTIS 1.

In some embodiments the data may be data containing an indicator that indicates directly that the tyre is approved, for example from an external computing device, via a wired or wireless interface, that is authenticated as qualified to determine whether a tyre is approved or not approved and provide an indication to ECU1 whether the tyre is approved or not approved. Alternatively the external computing device may convey data to ECU1 such as a tyre type identifier sufficient to enable ECU1 to determine whether the tyre is approved. In some embodiments ECU1 may permit a user to provide an indication directly through the HMI 37 whether a tyre is approved for operation with CTIS 1.

If ECU1 is unable to determine that all tyres fitted to the vehicle VH are approved for operation with the CTIS 1, ECU1 prevents operation of the vehicle in an off-road mode 205.

Accordingly, when HMI 37 is caused to display a list of available CTIS operating modes, the off-road modes may be displayed in a colour or shade indicating that they are not available.

In the present embodiment, ECU1 is configured to enable a user or service personnel to communicate to ECU1 data in respect of one or more tyres fitted to the vehicle VH, in dependence on which ECU1 either permits or denies operation of the vehicle VH in an off-road mode 205. In the present embodiment the user or service personnel is required to use an imaging device to capture an image of a sidewall of a tyre that has been fitted to the vehicle, or at least a portion of a datasheet associated with the tyre, via a CTIS-qualified 'app', being a software application that is run by a computing device such as a smartphone or tablet device. The CTIS-qualified app is arranged to process an image of the sidewall or datasheet and to determine, from the image, whether the tyre is approved for operation with the CTIS 1. The app may for example determine whether the image contains a predetermined one or more icons, indicia, letters, numerals or any other predetermined feature(s) and, based on the determination, provide an indication to ECU1 whether the tyre is approved. The app may for example detect a barcode, 'QR' code or any other suitable code in a captured image and determine whether the tyre is CTIS-approved based on the presence or absence of a suitable code.

In some embodiments the app may employ an optical character recognition technology to read' data in the image, for example a manufacturer's serial number for the tyre, and determine based on the serial number, optionally by reference to a database, whether or not the tyre is CTIS-approved. The computing device may be arranged to access the database online, or the database may be stored in a memory of the device. The computing device may be arranged to communicate an indication to the CTIS 1 via a wireless of wired link, whether a tyre that has been fitted is CTIS-approved. ECU1 then determines, based on the received data, whether to permit operation in an off-road mode 205.

Other arrangements may be useful in some embodiments.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of the words, for example "comprising" and "comprises", means "including but not limited to", and is not intended to (and does not) exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers or steps.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

Features, integers, characteristics, compounds, chemical moieties or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith.

Claims

CLAIMS: 1. An electronic controller for a motor vehicle central tyre inflation system, the controller being configured to control the system to cause inflation and deflation of one or more tyres, the controller being configured to cause the system to operate in a selected one of a plurality of operating modes in each of which the system is configured to set a pressure of one or more tyres of the vehicle to a predetermined tyre pressure value, the controller being configured to receive a first electronic signal indicative of a user input of a change in operating mode in which the system is to operate, the controller being configured such that when said first electronic signal indicative of said user input is received, the controller requests the user to provide an input confirming that said change in operating mode is required before causing a change in system operating mode.
2. An electronic controller according to claim 1 comprising: an electronic processor having an electrical input for receiving said first electronic signal indicative of a user input of the operating mode in which the system is to operate; and an electronic memory device electrically coupled to the electronic processor and having instructions stored therein, and wherein in response to receiving said first electronic signal the processor is configured to access the memory device and execute the instructions stored therein such that it is operable to request the user to provide an input confirming that a change in operating mode is required.
3. A controller according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein if the controller does not receive a second electronic signal indicative of a user input confirming that a change in operating mode is required within a predetermined time period the controller causes the system to remain in the current operating mode.
4. A controller according to claim 3 wherein the predetermined time period is a period in the range from 1s to 30s, preferably in the range from 1s to 10s.
5. A controller according claim 3 or claim 4 wherein the operating modes comprise at least one operating mode for on-road driving and at least one operating mode for off-road driving, wherein when the central tyre inflation system is operating in an on-road mode and an off-road mode is selected, and the controller receives the second electronic signal, the controller causes a message to be displayed to the user indicating that a speed limit has been imposed on the vehicle.
6. A controller according to claim 5 configured to impose a speed limit on the vehicle when operating in one said at least one off-road mode by commanding the control of at least one of a powertrain and a braking system.
7. A motor vehicle central tyre inflation system comprising a controller according to any preceding claim.
8. A motor vehicle comprising a body, a plurality of wheels, a powertrain to drive said wheels, a braking system to brake said wheels, and a central tyre inflation system according to any preceding claim.
9. A method of controlling a motor vehicle central tyre inflation system to cause inflation and deflation of one or more tyres, implemented by means of an electronic controller, the method comprising causing the system to operate in a selected one of a plurality of operating modes in each of which the system is configured to set a pressure of one or more tyres of the vehicle to a predetermined tyre pressure value, the method comprising receiving an input from a user indicative of the operating mode in which the system is to operate, whereby when an input is received indicating that a change in operating mode is required, the method comprises requesting a user to provide an input confirming that a change in operating mode is required before causing a change in system operating mode.
10. A carrier medium carrying computer readable code for controlling a vehicle to carry out the method of claim 9.
11. A computer program product executable on a processor so as to implement the method of claim 9.
12. A computer readable medium loaded with the computer program product of claim 11.
13. A processor arranged to implement the method of claim 10, or the computer program product of claim 11.
14. A controller, system, vehicle, method, carrier medium, computer program product, computer readable medium or processor substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.