Lionax Inc. and Semefab are collaborating to develop a next-generation digital pressure sensor for tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). Scotland’s Semefab and the Paris-based Lionax have reviewed a product design and defined a microelectromechanical process known as MEMS. The project aims to produce a higher performing, lower cost product compared to existing TPMS units; pressure sensor technology has traditionally used either Piezo-resistive or capacitive MEMS, whereas the new Lionax patented digital pressure sensor will use a “revolutionary” ring oscillator technology. “Ring oscillation is a unique design that is not currently available in the market,” says Allan James, Semefab’s joint managing director. “We are confident that this new digital pressure sensor will enhance our leadership position in the TPMS market and will bring additional applications beyond the automotive industry,” says Lionax CEO James Yang. The TPMS arena has become more lucrative since passage of the TREAD Act in the U.S. mandating that all new cars and light trucks be equipped with TPMS, according to James and Yang. This has opened up a potential $4 billion (euro) OEM TPMS marketplace, they predict. “It is a great honor to work with a renowned company like Semefab to commercialize our technology,” says Yang. “Semefab will dedicate resource and expertise to make it happen in 2008,” James adds. For more information, visit www.lionax.com. | 
