Patent attributes
Air-motion powered devices may be used to automatically maintain a target tire inflation pressure or to equip vehicle wheels with additional functionality. One illustrative device embodiment is an air compressor that attaches to the wheel of a vehicle, moving with the wheel as the wheel rotates. An action member extends from the compressor body to be acted upon by air through which the vehicle moves, the air causing motion of the action member relative to the compressor body to power the air compressor. Another illustrative device embodiment is an energy harvester that attaches to the wheel of a vehicle to move with the wheel as the wheel rotates. An action member attached to the base of the energy harvester is acted upon by air through which the vehicle moves, causing motion of the action member relative to the base to generate electrical power for sensors, lights, or other transducers.
