GB2589142A

GB2589142A - Adapter, Valve stem, tyre parameter monitoring system and method for mounting a tyre parameter monitoring system onto a wheel rim

Info

Publication number: GB2589142A
Application number: GB1917111.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Druta Paul; Roteliuc Claudiu
Original assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
Current assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
Priority date: 2019-11-25
Filing date: 2019-11-25
Publication date: 2021-05-26
Anticipated expiration: 2039-11-25
Also published as: GB2589142B; GB201917111D0

Abstract

In an embodiment, a tyre parameter monitoring system (2) is provided that comprises an electronic module with a fitting (6) for a snap-in valve, a valve stem (10) for a clamp-in valve (12), the valve stem (10) being elongate and having a length, and an adapter (8) that is coupleable to the fitting (6). The adapter (8) and 10 the valve stem (10) are mechanically coupleable to one another and rotateable about a common axis (L) that extends substantially perpendicularly to the length of the valve stem such that the valve stem (10) is positionable at different angles to the adapter (4).

Description

Adapter, valve stem, tyre parameter monitoring system and method for mounting a tyre parameter monitoring system onto a wheel rim The present invention relates to a system for measuring one or more parameters, in particular pressure, of a tyre fitted to a vehicle wheel.

The system is used to inform the driver of any abnormal variation in the measured parameter, for example the tyre pressure. Such systems typically include an inflation valve and an electronic module. The inflation valve is positioned in a bore or hole in the wheel rim and the electronic module is arranged inside the tyre and is coupled with the inflation valve.

One type of tyre parameter monitoring system or tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is known as the snap-in type, in which the inflation valve positioned on the outside of the wheel rim extends through a bore in the wheel rim and is connected to an electronic unit positioned on the inside of the wheel rim by a snap-in connection. Snap-in valves include an elastically deformable stem. An example of system such a snap-in system is disclosed in DE 196 10 376 Al.

Another type of type of tyre parameter monitoring system is known as the clamp-in type. For the clamp-in type, it is possible to fasten the electronic module in various angular positions with respect to the wheel rim. This enables the system to be mounted on wheel rims of different designs. An example of such a clamp-in system is disclosed in US 7 059 178 B2.

Depending on various factors, a system of either the snap-in type or the clamp-in type may be desirable. In order to simplify assembly and reduce costs, it would be 30 desirable to use components for both snap-in type and clamp-in type tyre parameter monitoring systems.

According to the invention, a tyre parameter monitoring system, in particular a tyre pressure monitoring system, is provided that comprises an electronic module with a fitting for a snap-in valve, a valve stem for a clamp-in valve, the valve stem being elongate and having a length, and an adapter that is coupleable to the fitting. The adapter and the valve stem are mechanically coupleable to one another and rotateable about a common axis that extends substantially perpendicularly to the length of the valve stem such that the valve stem is positionable at different angles to the adapter.

The system may be considered to include an adapter which provides a joint between a valve stem for a clamp-in valve and an electronic module with a fitting for a snap-in valve. The joint has a longitudinal axis about which the adapter and the valve stem are rotatable so that the valve stem is positionable at different angles to the adapter and at different angles to the electronic module. Thus, a clamp-in valve can be used with the valve stem and with the electronic module having a fitting for snap-in valve. The electronic module can be used with both snap-in valves and clamp-in valves and the clamp-in valve can be variably positioned with respect to the electronic module and, consequently, to a wheel rim. As the valve stem for the clamp-in valve is positionable at different angles to the electronic module, the system enables a clamp-in valve to be used for wheel rims of differing designs which require differing angles between the valve stem and the electronic module.

The valve stem is elongate with the length being the length of the long direction. The valve stem is made of a non-rubber material and is not resilient.

In some embodiments, the adapter comprises two first arms, each first arm having a first hole extending through a major surface of the first arm and the valve stem comprises a receptacle, the receptacle having two second arms, each second arm comprising a second hole extending through a major surface of the second arm, wherein the second holes are aligned to form a second bore. The second arms of receptacle are spaced part from one another and the first arms of the adapter are spaced apart from one another such that the first arms of the adapter can be positioned between the second arms of the receptacle or the second arms of the receptacle can be positioned between the first arms of the adapter.

In some embodiments, the first and second arms are positionable with respect to one another such that the first holes and second holes are alignable to form a common bore extending along the common axis. A pin can be inserted through the common bore to form a pin joint between the two parts, i.e. the adapter and the valve stem. The first and second arms and, therefore, the adapter and the valve stem are rotatable about the common axis.

In some embodiments, the first and second holes have substantially the same diameter. The first and second holes are sized shaped and arranged in the first arms and second arms, respectively, such that the first holes and second holes are alignable to form a common bore extending along the common axis and such that the first and second arms and, therefore, the adapter and the valve stem are rotatable about the common axis.

In some embodiments, the first arms have the form of plates, for example substantially flat planar plates or curved plates, that laterally bound a space on two opposing sides. A third lateral side of the space is formed by the material of the adapter and extends between the arms. A fourth lateral side that faces away from 10 the third lateral space and the adapter body is open so that the arms having free-lying distal ends. The vertical sides of the space, e.g. the top and bottom, are open.

In some embodiments, the second arms of the receptacle have the form of plates that laterally bound a space on two opposing lateral sides. The plates may be substantially flat and planar or may be curved. A third lateral side of the space is formed by the material of the receptacle and extends between the two arms. A fourth lateral side of the space that faces away from the receptacle body is open. This enables to adapter to be accommodated within the space. One vertical side of the space, e.g. the top, is open and the other opposing vertical side, e.g. the bottom, is closed.

In some embodiments, the receptacle comprises a closed side extending between the two second arms and an opening opposing the base and the opening is sized, shaped and arranged so that adapter is positionable within the opening. This form of the receptacle provides boundaries or limits to the angle to which the adapter is able to rotate about the common axis. The closed vertical side prevents further rotation of the adapter about the common axis in a direction towards the closed vertical side after the first arms abut the base. The opening positioned in the opposing vertical side enables rotation in the opposing direction about the common axis to a greater angle as the adapter can rotate into and extend through the opening.

In some embodiments, the tyre parameter monitoring system further comprising a pin or bolt that is insertable into the first holes and into the second holes to mechanically couple the adapter and the valve stem together and to allow rotational movement of the adapter and the valve stem around a longitudinal axis of the pin such that the valve stem is positionable at different angles to the adapter. The longitudinal axis of the pin is aligned with the common axis.

The first and second holes may have approximately the same diameter and have a diameter that is slightly greater than the diameter of the pin so that a pin joint can be formed between the first and second arms that allows rotational movement of the first and second arms about the longitudinal axis of the pin. The first arms are fixedly attached to the adapter and the second arms are fixedly attached to the valve stem so that the angle between the first and second arms and, consequently, the angle between the adapter and the valve stem can be varied as the first and second arms are rotated about the longitudinal axis of the pin.

In some embodiments, the tyre parameter monitoring system further comprises a spring. The spring may be a helical spring having an inner diameter such that it can be inserted over the pin and having a length and outer diameter such that the spring can be positioned between the first arms of the adapter which are in turn placed between the second arms of the receptacle.

In some embodiments, the spring is a torsion spring. The torsion spring may be sized, shaped and arranged to abut the receptacle to provide a resilient connection between the adapter and the valve stem. The torsion spring, for example an extension of the torsion spring, may abut the closed lateral side or base of the receptacle.

In some embodiments, the tyre parameter monitoring system further comprises a retaining spring that is positioned between an outer surface of the receptacle and the pin. This may be used to secure the position of the pin in the first and second holes and to secure the moveable joint between the adapter and the valve stem so as to prevent the parts forming the joint from coming apart.

In some embodiments, the tyre parameter monitoring system further comprises a nut and a seal. The position of the valve stem with respect to the electronic module and wheel rim may be fixed by securing the nut and the seal onto the receptacle of the valve stem. Relative movement of first and second arms and, therefore, of the valve stem and the adapter about the longitudinal axis of the pin is prevented.

In some embodiments, the receptacle has an abutment surface onto which the seal can be placed. In these embodiments, the tyre parameter monitoring system does not need to have a washer placed between the seal and the valve stem. The abutment surface may be provided by a receptacle having a cup shape with the side walls or portions of a single side wall if the cup is substantially cylindrical with the cup providing the arms and base of the space or interior of the receptacle. The elongate portion of the valve stem extends from an outer surface of the base of the receptacle. The outer surface of the base has a ring shape that surrounds and extends outwardly from the outer surface of the elongate portion of the valve stem and that provides the abutment surface.

The seal may have a ring shape with an inner diameter such that the seal fits over the valve stem.

In some embodiments, the adapter further comprises a connection stem that is coupleable to the fitting of electronic module. The connection stem extends from the opposing face of the adapter to the first arms. The connection stem may be connected to the fitting by a screw connection.

In some embodiments, the fitting for a snap-in valve in the electronic module comprises an aperture. The connection stem may be aligned with the aperture or be positioned in and extend through the aperture.

In some embodiments, the connection stem comprises an inner thread and is engaged with a screw to secure the connection stem and the adapter to the fitting and the electronic module. The first arms of the adapter and the screw are positioned on opposing sides of the aperture of the fitting.

The connection stem may extend through the aperture from a first side of the fitting and be secured to the fitting by a screw engaging with the inner thread, the screw being positioned on a second side of the fitting that opposes the first side. In use and when assembled, the screw is positioned within the tyre and the connection stem extends through the wheel rim such that the first arms are positioned on the outside of the wheel rim.

In some embodiments, the snap-in fitting of the electronic module comprises a mounting plate in which the aperture is positioned and may further comprise one or more lateral gusset plates. The mounting plate and the lateral gusset plates may extend substantially perpendicularly to the upper surface of the housing of the electronic module. The lateral gusset plate(s) may be positioned at the end(s) of the mounting plate and provide mechanical support for the mounting plate. The snap-in fitting may have an L-shape in plan view in the case of one lateral gusset plate, or a U-shape in plan view in the case of two lateral gusset plates.

In some embodiments, the electronic module includes a housing that 5 accommodates a tyre pressure sensor unit.

The system may be provided in the form of a kit of parts for assembly on a wheel rim.

The invention also provides an adapter for mounting a clamp-in valve on a snap-in electronic module of a tyre parameter monitoring system, whereby the clamp-in valve is variably positionable with respect to the snap-in electronic module. The adapter comprises two first arms and a connection stem that opposes the first arms, the connection stem being adapted to be secured to the snap-in electronic module.

The two first arms are adapted to be coupled to a valve stem of a clamp-in valve. Each first arm has a first hole extending through a major surface of the first arm, wherein the first holes are aligned to form a first bore with a longitudinal axis. The first holes are sized, shaped and arranged to accept a pin extending between the first holes. The longitudinal axis extends substantially perpendicularly to the length of the connection stem.

In some embodiments, the first arms have the form of plates, for example substantially flat planar plates or curved plates, that laterally bound a space on two opposing lateral sides. A third lateral side of the space is formed by the material of the adapter and extends between the arms. A fourth lateral side that faces away from the third lateral space and the adapter body is open so that the arms having free-lying distal ends. The vertical sides of the space, e.g. the top and bottom, are open. The first arms may form a U-shape with the third lateral side. The connection stem extends from the opposing surface of the third lateral side.

The connection stem may have an outer dimension, for example an outer diameter, that is adapted to fit within an aperture of a snap-in fitting of an electronic module. The connection stem may include an inner thread and/or an outer thread for securing the adapter to the snap-in fitting of the electronic module. The connection stem may be securable to the snap-in electronic module by a screw arranged on an opposing side of the ring that is engageable with the inner thread of the connection stem.

The invention also provides a valve stem for a clamp-in valve. The valve stem comprises an elongate shape having a length, a first end having an opening for a clamp-in valve and a receptacle at a second end, the second end opposing the first end. The receptacle has two second arms, each second arm comprising a second hole extending through a major surface of the second arm. The second holes are aligned to form a second bore with a longitudinal axis, the second holes being sized, shaped and arranged to accept a pin extending between the second holes.

The longitudinal axis of the second bore may extend substantially perpendicularly to the length and the longitudinal axis of the valve stem. The receptacle may be sized shaped and arranged to accommodate a fitting of an adapter comprising two arms. The second holes may be sized, shaped and arranged to be alignable with first holes positioned in each of the first arms of the adapter so that the first and second holes can be aligned along a common axis when the first and second arms are overlapped and a pin inserted into the first and second holes that extends along the common axis. Similarly, the first holes of the first arms of the adapter may be sized, shaped and arranged to be alignable with the second holes positioned in each of the second arms of the valve stem so that the first and second holes can be aligned along a common axis when the first and second arms are overlapped and a pin inserted into the first and second holes that extends along the common axis.

In some embodiments, the receptacle has an abutment surface onto which the seal can be placed. The abutment surface faces in the opposing direction to the second arms. In these embodiments, the tyre parameter monitoring system does not need to have a washer placed between the seal and the valve stem. The abutment surface may be provided by a receptacle having a cylindrical cup shape with the arms and base defining the interior or space of the receptacle and an elongate portion providing the valve stem with the elongate portion extending from the base of the cup or closed lateral side of the receptacle. The outer surface of the closed lateral side has a ring shape that surrounds the outer surface of the elongate portion of the valve stem and that provides the abutment surface.

The valve stem and the adapter may be provided together in the form of a kit of parts, optionally also with a pin, for use with an electronic module having a fitting for a snap-in sensor and with a clamp-in valve.

A method for mounting a tyre parameter monitoring system to a wheel rim is also provided. The method comprises providing an adapter comprising two first arms and a connection stem opposing the first arms, each first arm having a first hole extending through a major surface and providing a valve stem for a clamp-in valve. The valve stem comprises an elongate shape having a length, a first end having an opening for a clamp-in valve and a receptacle at a second end, the second end opposing the first end. The receptacle has two second arms, each second arm comprising a second hole extending substantially perpendicularly to a major surface of the second arms. The valve stem is coupling with the adapter to form an assembly, the assembly is coupled to a snap-in electronic module, the valve stem of the assembly is inserted into a hole in an outer surface of the wheel rim and the assembly is secured to the wheel rim.

The valve stem may be coupled with the adapter by inserting the first arms of the adapter between the second arms of the valve stem or by inserting the second arms of the valve stem around the first arms of the adapter, aligning the first and second holes and inserting a pin into the first and second holes so as to mechanically couple the adapter and the valve stem together so to allow rotational movement of the adapter and the valve stem around a longitudinal axis of the pin.

The assembly may be coupled to a snap-in electronic module by securing the connection stem to the snap-in electronic module.

The assembly may be secured to the wheel rim by placing a nut over the valve stem, and securing the valve stem to the rim by tightening the nut.

The valve stem is mounted to the connection stem with the help of the pin, which then is mounted to the electronic module. Then the whole assembly is mounted in the rim hole. The electronic module and the valve stem are positionable at different angles Thus, a clamp-in type valve stem that is formed from a non-resilient material is coupled to a snap-in electronic module by means of the adapter. The angle between the connection stem of the adapter and the snap-in electronic module is fixed. The adapter enables the valve stem to be positioned at different angles with respect to the electronic module by means of the pin joint formed between the first arms of the adapter and the second arms of the receptacle positioned at the second end of the valve stem.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises placing a torsion spring over the pin and positioning the torsion spring between the first arms of the adapter such that the torsion spring abuts the receptacle, placing a seal over the valve stem positioned on the outer surface of the wheel rim and securing a nut onto the seal to fix the position of the valve stem with respect to the wheel rim and the electronic module.

The torsion spring may be sized shaped and arranged to abut the receptacle to provide a resilient connection between the adapter and the valve stem. The torsion spring, for example an extension of the torsion spring, may abut the base or lateral side of the receptacle.

The connection stem may be secured to the snap-in electronic module by a screw connection. For example, the connection stem may be inserted into an aperture in the snap-in electronic module and engaged to the snap-in electronic module by means of a screw positioned on the opposing side of the aperture that engages with an inner thread of the connection stem. In some embodiments, the screw is a self-tapping screw. In some embodiments, the connection stem comprises an outer thread which is engaged with a nut positioned on the opposing side of the aperture.

The pin joint formed between the first and second arms also provides a self adjustment mechanism to fix the angle between the valve stem and the electronic module when the valve stem and the electronic module are engaged with the wheel rim. This joint fixes the position of the sensor on the wheel rim during spinning. As the valve stem is placed on the wheel rim, the valve angle can be easily adjusted by rotational movement around the longitudinal axis of the pin in order to fit the electronic module onto the wheel rim. After the initial fitting has been completed and the electronic module touches the wheel rim well, the nut positioned on the opposing side of the wheel rim is tightened to clamp the seal onto the wheel rim so as to provide an auto locking mechanism. The torque applied to the nut may be around 8Nm, which is sufficient to maintain the valve stem and the sensor in the desired position during high acceleration spinning.

The electronic unit module can be used with snap-in type of valve and a clamp-in type of valve whilst maintaining the flexible positioning, in particular, the variable angle between the clamp-in valve and the electronic module.

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings.

Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the parts of a tyre parameter monitoring system according to an embodiment of the invention, Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the assembled tyre parameter monitoring system of figure 1, Figure 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembled tyre parameter monitoring system of figure 1, Figure 4a illustrates a side view of the tyre pressure monitoring system with a first angle between the valve stem and the electronic module, and Figure 4b illustrates a side view of the tyre pressure monitoring system with a second angle between the valve stem and the electronic module.

Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the components of a tyre parameter monitoring system 2, in particular a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), according to an embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view and Figure 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembled tyre parameter monitoring system 2 of figure 1.

The tyre parameter monitoring system 2 includes an electronic module 4 which includes a fitting 6 for a snap-in valve, an adapter 8 that can be coupled to the fitting 6 and, therefore, to the electronic module 4 and a valve stem 10 for a clamp-in valve 12. The electronic module 4 includes a housing in which the electronics for the sensor for the tyre parameter monitoring system are positioned. The sensor may be a tyre pressure sensor.

The adapter 8 has a connection stem 14 which is adapted to be connectable to the fitting 6 of the electronic module 4. In this embodiment, the connection stem 14 has an elongate rod shape and has an outer diameter such that the connection stem 14 can be inserted into an aperture 56 of the fitting 6. The adapter 8 further includes two first arms 16 that extend from the opposing end of the adapter 8 to the connection stem 14.

Each of the first arms 16 has the form of a plate 18 that extends from a common base 26 to form a U-shape. The major surfaces 20 of the plates 18 are substantially parallel to one another and each first arm 16 includes a first hole 22 that extends through the thickness of the first arm 16 and is substantially perpendicular to the major surface 20 of the first arm 16. The first holes 22 of each of the first arms 16 are aligned on a common axis 24 that is substantially perpendicular to the long direction Lc of the connection stem 14. The first holes 22 together form a first bore for accepting a pin 28 of a pin joint. The distal ends of the first arms 16 may be rounded. In some embodiments, the distal ends of the first arms 16 have one rounded corner and one substantially square corner.

The valve stem 10 has a substantially elongate shape and has a long direction having a length that extends along the longitudinal axis Lv of the valve stem 10. The clamp-in valve 12 is inserted into an opening at a first end of the valve stem 10. The valve stem 10 includes a second end, that opposes the first end, that comprises a receptacle 30 for accommodating the first arms 16 of the adapter. The receptacle 30 can be considered to be a fitting or holder having an interior volume for accepting the adapter 8. The receptacle 30 may have a cup-shape and may be substantially cylindrical. The receptacle 30 has two second arms 32 that are spaced apart from one another and connected to the valve stem 10 at the base 34. The two second arms 32, in particular, the inner surface of the two second arms 32, are spaced apart by a distance that is greater than the distance between the outer surfaces of the first arms 16 of the adapter 8 so that the first arms 16 of the adapter 8 can be accommodated within the receptacle 30.

The second arms 32 each have the form of a plate and each include a second hole 25 38 in the major surface 40. The second holes 38 are aligned on a common axis 42 that is arranged perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis Lv of the valve stem 10. The two second holes 38 together form a bore for accepting the pin 28 of the pin joint.

The first and second arms 16, 32 are sized and shaped and the first and second holes 22, 38 are sized, shaped and arranged in the first and second arms 16, 32, respectively, so that when the first arms 16 are positioned between the second arms 32, the first and second holes 22, 38 can be aligned to form a common bore into which the pin 28 can be inserted to mechanically coupled the adapter 8 to the valve stem 10. The adapter 8 and the valve stem 10 can rotate around the longitudinal axis L of the pin 28, as indicated by the arrow 44, so that the angle between the valve stem 10 and the adapter 8 can be varied.

The receptacle 30 may include a lower portion 46 extending between a first lateral side of the second arms 32 and the base 34 and include an opening 48 positioned between the opposing second side of the second arms 32. The angle of rotation of the adapter 8 about the longitudinal axis L of the pin 28 is therefore limited in one direction by the lower portion 46 of the receptacle 30 and is greater in the opposing direction from horizontal as the adapter 8 can rotate into and protrude through the opening 48.

The system 2 also includes a torsion spring 50 which is positioned on the pin 28 and which is situated between the first arms 16 of the adapter 8. The torsion spring 50 is accommodated within the receptacle 30. The torsion spring 50 also has an extension that abuts the lower portion 46 or the base 34 of the receptacle 30. The torsion spring 50 provides a resilient connection between the adapter 8 and the valve stem 10 and, therefore, between the clamp-in valve 12 and the electronic module 4 also when the angular portion between the valve stem 10 and the electronic module 4 is fixed after the system 2 has been mounted onto and secured to a wheel rim.

The tyre pressure monitoring system 2 also includes a seal 52 and a nut 54 which are adapted to fit over the valve stem 10. The seal 52 and nut 54 are used to secure the valve stem 10 to the wheel rim and to fix the angular position between the valve stem 10 and wheel rim and the angular position between the valve stem 10 and the electronic module 4. The seal 52 is positioned between the nut 54 and an abutment surface 36 of the receptacle 30 that is formed by the outer surface of the base 34 of the receptacle 30.

In some embodiments, the fitting 6 of the snap-in electronic module 4 includes an aperture 56. In some embodiments, the fitting 6 includes a mounting plate 58 which may be supported by one or more lateral gussets 60. The aperture 56 may be positioned in the mounting plate 58. The connection stem 14 is aligned with, and may extend through, the aperture 56 at an outer side 62 of the fitting 6. In some embodiments, a screw connection is used to secure the connection stem 14 with the fitting 6 of the snap-in electronic module 4. The connection stem 14 may include an inner thread which is coupled to a screw 64 positioned on an opposing inner side 66 of the fitting 6 in order to secure the adapter 8 to the electronic module 4 and fix the position of the adapter 8 with respect to the electronic module 4.

As is illustrated in the assembled views depicted in Figures 2 and 3, the valve stem 10 may be mechanically coupled with the adapter 8 by inserting the first arms 16 of the adapter 8 between the second arms 32 of the receptacle 30 such that the first holes 22 are aligned with the second holes 38 to form a common bore having a longitudinal axis. The pin 28 can be inserted into the common bore such that the first and second arms 16, 22 and consequently the valve stem 10 and adapter 8 are rotatable about the longitudinal axis L of the pin 28. The pin 28 can be secured within the common bore by use of a retainer spring 68. The pin 28 can be a bolt.

The joint provided between the first and second arms 16, 32 by the pin 28 enables the angle between the valve stem 10 and the electronic unit 4 to vary, as indicated by the arrow 44, thus enabling the tyre parameter monitoring system 2 to be used on different types of wheel rim. In operation, the electronic module 4 and a base portion of the connection stem 14 are positioned on an inner surface of the wheel rim and within the tyre. The valve stem 10, seal 52 and nut 54 are positioned on the outer surface of the wheel rim.

The first and second arms 16, 32 may each have a length such that when the first and second holes 22, 38 are aligned, the distal ends of the first arms 16 are spaced apart from the base 34 extending between the second arms 22 and the distal ends of the second arms 32 are spaced apart from the base 26 extending between the first arms 16. In some embodiments, the curved shape of the distal end of the first arms 16 may be formed such that a mechanical stop function is provided which limits the extent of the rotation around longitudinal axis L of the pin 28 when the non-rounded upper corners of the first arms 16 abut the lower base 46 of the receptacle 30.

Figure 4a illustrates the electronic module 4 coupled with a valve 10 with a first angle of around 5° between the longitudinal axis of the valve stem 10 and the upper surface of the electronic module 4. Figure 4b illustrates the electronic module 4 coupled with the valve stem 10 at a second angle of around 20° between the longitudinal axis of the valve stem 10 and the upper surface of the electronic module 4. The angle about the longitudinal axis L of the pin 28 that is variable as is indicated by the arrow 44.

Since the electronic module 4 has not been modified and includes a fitting of the snap-in type, it can be used for a snap-in valve as well as a clamp-in valve by means of the adapter 8 and valve stem 10 disclosed herein, thus reducing the number parts which are required to produce both type of system. Additionally, the clamp-in valve stem 10 can be mounted at different angular positions with respect to the electronic module 4 so that the system 2 can be used with different wheel rims with a clamp-in valve.

The tyre parameter monitoring system 2 is mounted on the wheel rim by placing the seal 52 over the valve stem 10, coupling with valve stem 10 with the connection stem 14 of the adapter 8 and securing the connection stem 14 to the snap-in fitting 6 of the electronic module 4 that is positioned on an inner surface of the wheel rim.

The connection stem 14 may be coupled to the electronic module 4 by inserting the connection stem 14 into the aperture 56 in the fitting 6 and engaging the screw 64 with the inner thread of the connection stem 14 to secure the connection stem 14 and the adapter 8 to the outer surface 62 of the fitting 6 with the head of the screw 64 being engaged with the inner surface 66 of the fitting 6. The valve stem 10 and the adapter 8 may be coupled together by inserting the first arms 16 of the adapter 8 between the second arms 32 of the valve stem 10 so that the first and second holes 22, 38 are aligned. The pin 28 is inserted into the common bore formed by the first and second holes 22, 38 and the torsion spring 50 positioned around the pin 28 and between the first arms 16.

In this partially assembled state, the arrangement allows rotational movement of the adapter 8 and the valve stem 10 around a longitudinal axis L of the pin 28 as indicated by the arrow 44 such that the valve stem 10 is positionable at different angles to the electronic module 4. The assembly including the valve stem 10, the adapter 8 and the electronic module 4 is mounted to the wheel rim by inserting the valve stem 10 into a hole in an outer surface of the wheel rim and placing the nut 54 over the valve stem 10 and tightening the nut 54 in order to secure the valve stem 10 and electronic module 4 to the wheel rim and to fix the angle between the valve stem 10 and the electronic module 4.

The system 2 enables the clamp-in valve 12 and valve stem 10 to be mounted at an adjustable angle on a wheel rim by means of the pin joint formed between the first arms 16 of the adapter 8 and the second arms 32 of the valve stem 10 and enables the clamp-in valve 12 to be connected to the snap-in fitting 6 of the electronic module 4. The angular position between the valve stem 10 and the electronic module 4 is variable about the longitudinal axis L of the pin 28, as indicated by the arrow 44. This enables the clamp-in valve 12 to be mounted on the wheel rim at a convenient angle for the best fitment due to the variable positioning of the valve stem 10. The electronic module 4 with the fitting 6 which is designed for conventional snap-in type valves can be used with a clamp-in type valve by means of the adapter 8 and the receptacle 30 of the valve stem 10.

Reference list 2 tyre parameter monitoring system 4 electronic module 6 fitting 8 adapter valve stem 12 clamping valve 14 connection stem 16 first arms 18 plate major surface 22 first hole 24 common axis 26 common base 28 pin receptacle 32 second arm 34 base 36 abutment surface 38 second hole major surface 42 common axis 44 arrow 46 lower portion 48 opening torsion spring 52 seal 54 nut 56 aperture 58 mounting plate lateral gusset 62 outer side of fitting 64 screw 66 inner side of fitting 68 retainer spring

Claims

Claims 1. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2), comprising: an electronic module (4) with a fitting (6) for a snap-in valve; a valve stem (10) for a clamp-in valve (12), the valve stem (10) being elongate and having a length, and an adapter (8) that is coupleable to the fitting (6), wherein the adapter (8) and the valve stem (10) are mechanically coupleable to one another and rotateable about a common axis (L) that extends substantially perpendicularly to the length of the valve stem (10) such that the valve stem (10) is positionable at different angles to the adapter (4).
2. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to claim 1, wherein the adapter (8) comprises two first arms (16), each first arm (16) having a first hole (22) extending through a major surface (20), wherein the valve stem (10) comprises a receptacle (30), the receptacle (30) having two second arms (32), each second arm (32) comprising a second hole (38) extending through a major surface (40), wherein the second arms (32) of the receptacle (30) are spaced apart from one another and the first arms (16) of the adapter (8) are spaced apart from one another such that the first arms (16) of the adapter (8) can be positioned between the second arms (32) of the receptacle (30) or the second arms (32) of the receptacle (30) can be positioned between the first arms (16) of the adapter (8).
3. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to claim 2, wherein the first holes (22) and the second holes (38) are sized, shaped and arranged such that the first holes (22) and the second holes (38) are alignable to form a common bore extending along the common axis (L).
4. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to claim 2 or claim 3, further comprising a pin (28) that is insertable into the first holes (22) and into the second holes (38) to mechanically couple the adapter (8) and the valve stem (10) together and to allow rotational movement of the adapter (8) and the valve stem (10) around a longitudinal axis (L) of the pin (28) such that the valve stem (10) is positionable at different angles to the adapter (8).
5. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to claim 4, further comprising a spring (50), wherein the spring (50) is a helical spring having an inner diameter such that it can be inserted over the pin (28) and having a length and outer diameter such that it can be positioned between the first arms (16) of the adapter (8).
6. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to claim 5, wherein the spring (50) is a torsion spring, wherein the torsion spring abuts the receptacle (30) to provide a resilient connection between the adapter (8) and the valve stem (10).
7. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the receptacle (30) comprises a closed lateral side (46) extending between the two second arms (32) and an opening (48) opposing the closed lateral side (46), wherein the opening (50) is sized, shaped and arranged so that the adapter (8) is positionable within the opening (48).
8. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to one of claims 4 to 7, further comprising a retaining spring (68) that is positioned between an outer surface of the receptacle (30) and the pin (28).
9. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a nut (54) and a seal (52), wherein the position of the valve stem (10) with respect to the electronic module (4) is fixed by securing the nut (54) and the seal (52) onto the receptacle.
10. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to one of claims 1 to 9, 25 wherein the adapter (8) comprises a connection stem (14), wherein the connection stem (14) is coupled to the fitting (6) of the electronic module (4).
11. A tyre parameter monitoring system (2) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the electronic module (4) accommodates a tyre pressure sensor unit. 30
12. An adapter (8) for mounting a clamp-in valve (12) on a snap-in electronic module (4) of a tyre parameter monitoring system (2) with variable positioning of the clamp-in valve (12) with respect to the snap-in electronic module (4), the adapter (8) comprising: two first arms (16) and a connection stem (14) opposing the first arms (16), the connection stem (14) being adapted to be secured to the snap-in electronic module (4), each first arm (16) having a first hole (22) extending through a major surface (20) of the first arm (16), wherein the first holes (22) are aligned to form a first bore with a longitudinal axis, the first holes (22) being sized, shaped and arranged to accept a pin (28) extending between the first holes (22).
13. A valve stem (10) for a clamp-in valve (12), wherein the valve stem (10) comprises an elongate shape having a length, a first end having an opening for a clamp-in valve (12) and a receptacle (30) at a second end, the second end opposing the first end, wherein the receptacle (30) has two second arms (32), each second arm (32) comprising a second hole (38) extending through a major surface (40) of the second arm (32), wherein the second holes (38) are aligned to form a second bore with a longitudinal axis, the second holes (38) being sized, shaped and arranged to accept a pin (28) extending between the second holes (38).
14. A method for mounting a tyre parameter monitoring system (2) to a wheel rim, the method comprising: providing an adapter (8) comprising two first arms (16) and a connection stem (14) opposing the first arms (16), each first arm (16) having a first hole (22) extending through a major surface (20) of the first arm (16); providing a valve stem (10) for a clamp-in valve (12), wherein the valve stem (10) comprises an elongate shape having a length, a first end having an opening for a clamp-in valve (12) and a receptacle (30) at a second end, the second end opposing the first end, wherein the receptacle (30) has two second arms (32), each second arm (32) comprising a second hole (38) extending through a major surface (40) of the second arm (32); coupling the valve stem (10) with the adapter (8) to form an assembly by inserting the first arms (16) of the adapter (8) between the second arms (32) of the valve stem (10); aligning the first and second holes (22; 38); inserting a pin (48) into the first and second holes (22; 38) and mechanically coupling the adapter (8) and the valve stem (10) together so to allow rotational movement of the adapter (8) and the valve stem (10) around a longitudinal axis (L) of the pin (28); coupling the assembly to a snap-in electronic module (4) by securing the connection stem (14) to the snap-in electronic module (4); inserting the valve stem (10) of the assembly into a hole in an outer surface of the wheel rim; placing a nut over the valve stem (10), and securing the valve stem (10) to the rim by tightening the nut (54).
15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: placing a torsion spring (50) over the pin (28) and positioning the torsion spring (50) between the first arms (16) of the adapter (8) such that the torsion spring (50) abuts the receptacle (30); placing a seal (52) over the valve stem (10); securing the nut (54) and the seal (52) to fix the position of the valve stem (10) with respect to the wheel rim and the electronic module (4).