Based in Rotorua, New Zealand, Bigfoot Equipment Ltd is a leading manufacturer and supplier of central tyre inflation systems (CTI systems). With over 25 years of experience, Bigfoot has established itself as a provider of top-tier CTI Systems, known for their reliability and performance in challenging environments worldwide. 

Bigfoot's dedication to innovation is evident in its R&D department, which continuously explores new ideas to enhance both hardware and software components of the system, ensuring that the Bigfoot Central Tyre Inflation System remains at the forefront of the industry.

What is a CTI System?

Central Tyre Inflation Systems (CTIS) are advanced pneumatic systems installed on vehicles, allowing the driver to adjust the air pressure in the tyres while on the go. By enabling quick and automated adjustments to tyre pressure, CTIS helps optimize vehicle performance, traction, fuel efficiency, and overall safety in various operating conditions.

Project Objectives

While Bigfoot has seen success with its old Central Tyre Inflation Systems fleet, they recognised the need to update the device and enhance key design elements. To achieve this, Bigfoot engaged Beta Solutions for various services, including hardware and firmware development, mechanical design, and production, leveraging our 16 years of experience in electronic R&D. The objectives for this project include:

- Simplify design for easier installation.

- Keep product reliability high.

- Improve control algorithm with predictive control

- Maintain the key features that made the previous version successful.

Solution

To address Bigfoot's objectives for enhancing its Central Tyre Inflation System, the solution focused on the following key aspects:

Hardware Architecture: The system demanded the development of two essential hardware components:

• Display: Positioned in the driver's cab to provide information and allow for user configuration of tyre pressures.
• Electronic Control Unit (ECU): Located centrally near the tyres to control and measure tyre pressure.

LCD Screen: The dot matrix display was upgraded to an LCD screen, enabling a higher-resolution user interface for better information display and interaction. This also had the benefit of reducing the form factor for easier installation.

User Interface Design: Leveraging the LVGL library, a user interface was developed to include bar graphs, gauges, and menus, enhancing the user experience and usability.

Capsense: Physical buttons were replaced with capsense options, improving reliability.

GPS Integration: The implementation of GPS tracking allows for the measurement of vehicle speed and alerts the driver if speeds exceed safe operating limits based on the current tyre pressures.

ECU Simplification: The architecture of the Electronic Control Unit was streamlined for simplified installation and operation.

Control Algorithm: The algorithm was enhanced with predictive control to increase the speed and precision with tyre inflation.

This solution aimed to modernize the Central Tyre Inflation System, making it more user-friendly and provide a better experience for both drivers and installers.

Production Quality Assurance

Test Rig: All devices undergo functional testing using a dedicated test rig designed by Beta Solutions, before integration into the Central Tyre Inflation Systems. This testing process, facilitated by a bed of nails system, ensures that every unit meets the highest quality and performance standards set by Bigfoot.

Factory Software: A software program was developed for factory technicians to use in conjunction with the test rig, to allow them to conduct test procedures efficiently. This ensures the quality and functionality of each unit before integration into the systems.

In under a minute, the fixture can both program and complete the full spectrum of necessary tests for these complex electronic boards. The results are logged for ongoing production quality analysis.

Success

We have been privileged to partner with Bigfoot in successfully enhancing the Central Tyre Inflation System. This project highlights Beta Solutions' commitment to delivering innovative solutions. Contact us to explore how we can assist with your next project.

To learn more about Bigfoot's products and services, or to purchase, please visit their website: https://www.bigfoot.co.nz/