Infrastructure-based tyre condition monitoring
TyreGates examines whether tyre condition can be assessed using fixed infrastructure at locations where vehicles already slow or stop, rather than relying only on manual inspection or permanent hardware fitted to every vehicle. The aim is to identify useful condition signals early enough to support follow-up inspection and maintenance decisions.
Programme focus
The programme covers optical, thermal and other sensing methods suitable for fixed drive-through installation; sensor positioning and calibration; environmental effects; repeated pass-by measurements; vehicle and wheel identification; condition history; and operational alert workflows. AI and multi-sensor fusion are considered where they are separately developed and validated.
Technical questions
- Which tyre-related signals can be observed repeatably as a vehicle passes through a controlled location?
- How do ambient temperature, lighting, background, vehicle use and sensor calibration affect signal quality?
- Which combinations of sensors provide useful evidence without creating an impractical site installation?
- How should repeated observations be linked to the correct vehicle and wheel position?
- What validation evidence is required before live operational alerts can be trusted?
Current development position
The completed Department for Transport TRIG feasibility phase progressed TyreGates through early technical feasibility and a working sensing platform. Further work remains necessary on calibration stability, controlled datasets, multi-sensor interpretation and operational trials before unrestricted deployment claims can be made.
Programme outputs
TyreGates has produced an early feasibility platform, controlled sensing observations, calibration and environmental findings, technical data, operational assumptions, a staged route towards controlled live trials and associated intellectual property. It is not a replacement for statutory inspection or technician judgement.