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Piezoelectric triggering mechanism

  • US 8,193,926 B2
  • Filed: 03/14/2006
  • Issued: 06/05/2012
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/14/2006
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A piezoelectric triggering mechanism, comprising:

  • a pneumatic tire structure characterized by a crown having a tread portion for making contact with a ground surface; and

    a piezoelectric element configured to crack or break upon being subjected to a sufficient amount of mechanical force, said piezoelectric element generating a burst of electromagnetic energy upon cracking or breaking; and

    a modulation circuit coupled to said piezoelectric element and configured to receive electromagnetic energy from said piezoelectric element and to radiate a triggering signal therefrom when the energy level output by the piezoelectric element exceeds normal levels characteristic of mere deformation of the piezoelectric elementwherein said piezoelectric element is integrated at a select location relative to said pneumatic tire structure such that excess deflection of said pneumatic tire structure results in the cracking or breaking of said piezoelectric element.

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