Radial bead profile measuring device

Abstract

In this invention, a device has been designed to accurately measure the circumference and weight of a radial tire bead. The goal of this innovation is to increase the accuracy, speed, and efficiency of the quality control process for tires produced in the country's tire manufacturing industry. The main problem with traditional methods, which are performed using templates and traditional scales, is low accuracy, operator dependency, and high error rates. The device is designed using digital image processing technology, which includes a Raspberry Pi camera and the SimpleBlobDetector algorithm in the OpenCV library, to calculate the diameter of the bead with an error of less than 1%. Also, using four load cell sensors equipped with the HX711 module, the weight of the bead is measured with high accuracy (error of 0.35% to 3.18%). The data is processed by the Raspberry Pi minicomputer and the results are displayed instantly on the LCD touch screen. This integrated system increases production efficiency by automating the measurement process and using cost-effective components, making it ideal for tire production lines and quality control laboratories.

Description

Description of the invention Title of the invention (as stated in the declaration) Radial bevel profile measuring device Technical background of the relevant invention The present invention relates to the technical field of quality control equipment in the tire industry, and in particular to devices used to accurately measure the dimensional (diameter) and weight characteristics of the tire bead (rim). Technical problem and stating the objectives of the invention In the tire industry, precise quality control of the bead, which plays a vital role in securely connecting the tire to the rim, is of paramount importance. Previous methods for measuring bead characteristics faced serious technical challenges. The traditional, manual method, which relies on the use of physical templates, is highly dependent on operator skill and has fundamental disadvantages such as low accuracy, low speed, and high human error rates. These weaknesses directly lead to substandard products, increased waste, and ultimately reduced tire safety. On the other hand, imported fully automatic measuring devices, in addition to their very high procurement cost, face serious challenges in terms of supply, technical support, and repairs due to restrictions resulting from sanctions. Therefore, the main technical problem is the lack of an accurate, rapid, repeatable, cost-effective, and domestically manufactured measurement method that can simultaneously overcome the weaknesses of manual methods and the limitations of access to advanced foreign technologies. Invention objectives The main objective of presenting this invention is to completely solve the aforementioned technical problems by designing and building an integrated and automated system for measuring tire bead characteristics. The specific and practical objectives of this invention are: 1. Increased accuracy and error elimination: Significantly increased accuracy in measuring the diameter and weight of the willow and completely eliminated human error through the use of image processing technology and precise electronic sensors (load cells). 2. Increase speed and productivity: Speed ​​up the quality control process in a way that is compatible with the capacity of modern industrial production lines and increases productivity. 3. Reducing production costs: Reducing costs in two ways: 1) minimizing product waste due to strict quality control and 2) using standard, available, and inexpensive electronic components that eliminate dependence on imports. 4. Providing a local solution: Building a reliable and maintainable device domestically that does not have the supply, cost, and support problems of expensive foreign equipment. 5. Improving the quality and safety of the final product: Ensuring uniform and standardized quality of the produced beads and, as a result, directly improving the quality and safety level of the tires supplied to the market. A description of the state of the prior art and the history of developments related to the claimed invention. Given the requirement of novelty in patenting, an extensive search was conducted in national and international patent databases as well as non-patent sources (such as scientific articles and conferences) to ensure that the subject matter of the invention was not disclosed. In the following, the closest records related to the present invention found in these searches are introduced and their technical features are briefly described. Then, the differences and technical advantages of the present invention over these records are stated. Background 1: Patent No. US20200164699A1 in 2020 by Michelin Company In the 2020 patent US20200164699A1 filed by Michelin, a system for measuring tire characteristics using laser sensors and imaging is disclosed. The system uses laser sensors to accurately measure tire dimensions, including bead diameter, and sends the data to a central processing unit. Technical features of the invention include high accuracy (less than 0.5% error) and the ability to be integrated into high-speed production lines. Background 2: Patent number EP3459812A1 in 2019 by Bridgestone Company Patent number EP3459812A1 from Bridgestone in 2019 discloses a device for measuring tire weight using mechanical weight sensors. In this device, the tire is placed on a platform equipped with weight sensors and the total weight of the tire is measured. Technical features of this invention include simplicity and usability in industrial environments. History 3: Article published in ScienceDirect titled "Machine learning-driven intelligent tire wear detection system" in 2024 In an article published in ScienceDirect in 2024 titled "Machine learning-driven intelligent tire wear detection system", an intelligent system for detecting tire wear using machine learning is disclosed. The system uses PVDF sensors and accelerometers to collect tire vibration and deformation data and predicts tire wear with machine learning algorithms. Technical features of this system include high accuracy and applicability in various speed and load conditions. Technical differences and advantages of the present invention The present invention, which is a device for measuring the diameter and weight of a radial tire bead using image processing and weight sensors, has the following advantages over the aforementioned prior art: Unlike the Michelin invention, which uses expensive laser sensors, the present invention utilizes lower-cost digital image processing and has greater flexibility in measuring beads of different shapes. It also offers the ability to measure weight simultaneously, which is not available in the Michelin invention. Compared to Bridgestone's invention, which only measures tire weight, the present invention calculates both diameter and bead weight characteristics simultaneously and with high accuracy, and uses load cell sensors with more precise calibration capabilities. Compared to the tire wear detection system in the ScienceDirect article, which focuses on in-use monitoring, the present invention is designed for measurement at the production stage, providing high accuracy at a lower cost and without the need for complex sensors such as PVDF. As a result, the present invention offers significant innovation over existing records and meets the requirement of world-class innovation by integrating diameter and weight measurement into a single system, utilizing cost-effective image processing technology, and automating the process. Providing a solution to an existing technical problem along with an accurate, sufficient, and integrated description of the invention Description of the invention: Device for measuring the diameter and weight of radial tire beads Technical problem and proposed solution In the tire industry, accurate measurement of the diameter and weight of the tire bead (the metal ring inside the tire rim) is done manually or with traditional tools, which is time-consuming, prone to human error, and lacks sufficient accuracy. This invention solves this problem by providing an automated and cost-effective device. The device uses digital image processing to measure the diameter and weight sensors to calculate the weight, and displays the results in real time. Detailed description of the invention The Radial Tire Bead Diameter and Weight Measuring Machine is an innovative system that combines image processing technologies and weight sensors to enable automatic and accurate measurement. This machine is designed using readily available and low-cost components to be used in industrial production lines. Main components of the device Raspberry Pi camera (number 1 on the map) A 5-megapixel camera used to capture images of the tire tread. The camera is connected to the minicomputer via the CSI port. Raspberry Pi minicomputer (number 2 on the map) A minicomputer with 8 GB of RAM that runs image processing algorithms (with the OpenCV library) and processes weight data. Weight sensors (load cells) (number 3 on the map) Four load cell sensors with a capacity of 1 kg and equipped with an HX711 module for accurate measurement of tire bead weight. These sensors operate at temperatures from -20 to 55 degrees Celsius. Arduino microcontroller (number 4 on the map) responsible for managing the load cell sensors and transmitting weight data to the Raspberry Pi via serial communication. LCD Touch Screen (No. 5 on the map) A display with capacitive touch technology that shows the user the results of diameter and weight measurements. It is connected to the Raspberry Pi via the HDMI port. Measuring plate (number 6 on the map) is a 50 x 50 cm plate on which the tire bead is placed and is connected to four load cell sensors. How to install and place components The Raspberry Pi camera (1) is mounted on top of the measuring plate (6) and its angle is adjusted to capture a clear image of the tire bead. The Raspberry Pi minicomputer (2) is placed next to the measurement plate (6) and is connected to the camera (1) with a CSI cable. Four load cell sensors (3) are mounted at the four corners below the measuring plate (6). Each sensor is connected to the lower base with a spacer and to the upper plate with a free end to transmit the weight to the strain gauges. The Arduino microcontroller (4) is placed near the Raspberry Pi (2) and connected to it via a serial port. The LCD touchscreen display (5) is mounted on the front of the device and is connected to the Raspberry Pi (2) with an HDMI cable. How the device works (step by step) 1. Measuring the tire bead diameter The tire bead is placed on the measuring plate (6). The Raspberry Pi camera (1) captures an image of a willow. The image is sent to a Raspberry Pi (2) minicomputer and processed using the SimpleBlobDetector algorithm in OpenCV. This algorithm detects the willow circles and calculates their diameter with an error of less than 1%. The diameter result is displayed on the LCD touchscreen (5). 2. Measuring the weight of the tire bead The tire bead is placed on the measuring plate (6) and its weight is measured by four load cell sensors (3). The raw data is amplified and digitized by the HX711 module and sent to the Arduino microcontroller (4). The Arduino (4) transmits data to the Raspberry Pi (2) via the serial port. After calibration (with reference stones), the Raspberry Pi (2) calculates the exact weight and displays it on the LCD display (5). Technical and manufacturing details Sensor calibration: The load cell sensors (3) are adjusted with calibration stones with an accuracy of 1 mg. The calculated offset is applied in the program. Image processing: The SimpleBlobDetector algorithm detects blobs with high speed and accuracy by adjusting the area and radius parameters. Power supply: The device is powered by a 5V 3A adapter connected to the Raspberry Pi (2) and Arduino (4). Construction materials: The measuring plate (6) is made of lightweight aluminum and the sensors are mounted with M4 screws. Benefits and innovations High accuracy: Diameter is measured with an error of less than 1% and weight with an error of 0.35% to 3.18%. Automation: Eliminate the need for human intervention and reduce errors. Low cost: Using Raspberry Pi and Arduino reduces costs. Flexibility: Can be used for tire beads of different sizes. Conclusion This description discloses all the technical features of the device and allows its reconstruction by a skilled person. All claims made in the claims section are supported by details and full legal protection for the invention is ensured. Explanation of shapes, maps and diagrams Figure 1) This figure shows an overview of the body of the invention. Figure 2) This figure shows the body of the invention from different angles. Figure 3) This figure shows the top of the body and its electrical circuits. Figure 4) This figure shows the details of the electronic device connections on the upper part of the body. Figure 5) This figure shows a side cutaway of the body with all the electrical connections. Figure 6) This figure shows all the connections of the electronic components without a body. A clear and precise statement of the advantages of the claimed invention over prior inventions. The present invention is a device for measuring the diameter and weight of a radial tire bead using image processing and weight sensors, which has significant technical and operational advantages over previous technologies. In the following, these advantages are clearly and precisely described over the related prior art and traditional methods. 1. Higher accuracy in measuring diameter and weight Previous patents: Previous patents, such as Michelin's patent (US20200164699A1), have used laser sensors to measure tire diameter with high accuracy (less than 0.5% error), but these methods are usually designed to measure the overall tire dimensions and are not specifically optimized for tire bead. Also, Bridgestone's patent (EP3459812A1) only measures tire weight with mechanical sensors, and its accuracy is limited due to the lack of precise calibration. Advantage of the present invention: This device uses digital image processing (SimpleBlobDetector algorithm in OpenCV) to measure the diameter of the willow with an error of less than 1%, which is very accurate for industrial applications. Also, the load cell sensors with precise calibration (with reference stones) calculate the weight of the willow with an error of 0.35% to 3.18%, which is much more accurate than traditional methods (such as manual scales). 2. Complete automation of the measurement process Prior Inventions: In many existing systems, measurements are performed manually or semi-automatically, requiring human intervention and thus prone to human error. For example, in traditional methods, operators use physical templates to measure the diameter of the beet, which is time-consuming and inaccurate. Advantage of the present invention: This device fully automates the measurement process and uses a camera and weight sensors to collect and process data in real time without the need for human intervention. This completely eliminates human error and increases the speed and efficiency of the production process. 3. Lower costs and easy access to parts Previous inventions: Advanced systems such as laser sensors or industrial imaging are typically expensive and restricted in some countries due to sanctions. For example, Michelin's invention uses expensive laser equipment that is not cost-effective for smaller manufacturers. Advantage of the present invention: The device is designed using affordable and readily available components such as Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and load cell sensors. This significantly reduces the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the device and allows for easy access to spare parts, which is critical for manufacturers in sanctioned countries. 4. Flexibility in measuring different weights Previous Inventions: Many existing systems are designed to measure specific tire dimensions or weights and require new adjustments or templates for beads of different shapes or sizes. For example, in traditional methods, physical templates must be made separately for each bead size. Advantage of the present invention: This device is capable of measuring tire beads of various sizes and shapes using digital image processing, without the need to change hardware or physical molds. Image processing algorithms automatically identify bead circles and calculate the diameter, which provides high flexibility in production lines. 5. Integrate diameter and weight measurements into a single system Previous Inventions: In existing records, diameter and weight measurements are usually done separately and with separate devices. For example, the Bridgestone invention measures only weight, while the Michelin invention focuses on dimensions. Advantage of the present invention: This device measures both diameter and weight parameters simultaneously in a single system, which saves time and operating costs. This integration also takes up less space on the production line and simplifies data management. 6. Real-time data monitoring and analysis Prior Inventions: Many existing systems lack real-time monitoring capabilities and data must be collected and analyzed periodically, which may delay the identification of quality issues. Advantage of the present invention: This device enables real-time monitoring and data analysis by displaying measurement results on the LCD touch screen in real time. This feature allows manufacturers to quickly react to any deviations from quality standards and optimize the production process. 7. Reducing dependence on skilled manpower Prior Inventions: In traditional methods, measurements depend on the skill and experience of operators, which can lead to inconsistencies in results. Advantage of the present invention: By fully automating the process, this device reduces the need for skilled manpower and, therefore, significantly reduces training costs and errors due to inexperience. 8. Compatibility with international standards Prior Inventions: Some existing systems may not be compatible with specific industry standards or require complex setup. Advantage of the present invention: This device, with high accuracy and precise calibration capability, is easily compatible with international tire industry standards and can be used in quality control processes for exporting tires to global markets. As a result, the present invention, by providing a comprehensive, cost-effective, and accurate solution for measuring the diameter and weight of radial tire beads, has significant advantages over previous technologies and can effectively contribute to improving the quality and efficiency of tire production. Description of at least one implementation method for implementing the invention This section describes the step-by-step procedure for using the radial tire bead diameter and weight measuring device. This procedure includes the steps of installation, calibration, commissioning, measurement, and maintenance of the device. By following these instructions, a person skilled in the relevant technology can properly use the device in an industrial environment. 1. Installing the device Placement on the production line: The device should be installed in a place on the production line where access to the tire beads is provided after the production stage. Sufficient space should be provided for the placement of the measuring plate and electronic components. Connecting to a power source: The device is powered by a 5V 3A adapter. Plug the adapter into a power outlet and connect the power cables to the Raspberry Pi and Arduino. Installing hardware components: Raspberry Pi camera: Mount the camera on top of the measurement plate and adjust its angle to capture a clear image of the tire bead. Connect the CSI cable to the corresponding port on the Raspberry Pi. Weight Sensors (Load Cells): Install four load cell sensors at the four corners below the measuring plate. Connect each sensor to the lower base with a spacer and to the upper plate with a free end. Arduino microcontroller: Place the Arduino near the Raspberry Pi and connect it to it with a USB cable. Touchscreen LCD display: Mount the display on the front of the device and connect it to the Raspberry Pi with an HDMI cable. 2. Calibration Calibration of weight sensors: Prepare calibration stones of precise weight (e.g. 100 grams, 200 grams, and 500 grams). Place the stones in order on the measurement screen and view the values ​​recorded by the sensors in the software. Using the calibration formula in the software, adjust the offset and scale factor to display accurate weight values. Image processing settings: Run image processing software on the Raspberry Pi. Adjust the parameters of the SimpleBlobDetector algorithm (such as minimum and maximum area, radius, and color intensity) based on tire bead samples. 3. Launching the software Running the software on Raspberry Pi: Boot the Raspberry Pi OS. Run the device software, which includes Python scripts for image processing and communication with the Arduino. Initial settings: In the software, specify the communication ports with the Arduino and the camera. Enter the calibration parameters for the weight sensors. 4. Taking measurements Tire bead placement: Place the tire bead on the measuring plate so that it is in the center of the plate and in the view of the camera. Image capture and processing: By pressing the "Start Measurement" button on the touchscreen, the camera will capture the image. The software processes the image and calculates the diameter of the moth using the SimpleBlobDetector algorithm. Weight measurement: At the same time, the weight sensors send weight data to the Arduino. The Arduino transmits the data to the Raspberry Pi, and the software calculates the exact weight after applying calibration. Show results: The calculated diameter and weight are displayed on the LCD touchscreen. If needed, data can be stored or sent to management systems. 5. Maintenance and troubleshooting Periodic maintenance: Every month, recalibrate the weight sensors with calibration stones. Keep the camera lens clean to capture clear images. Troubleshooting: No image displayed: Check the camera's CSI cable connection. Error in weight measurement: Check the connections of the load cell sensors and the HX711 module. No communication with Arduino: Check the serial port and USB cable. By following this procedure, the device is effectively used in the production line and provides accurate and automated measurements. Explicit mention of the industrial application of the invention The present invention, a device for measuring the diameter and weight of a radial tire bead, has wide industrial applications in the field of tire production and related industries. The industries in which this invention is applicable and how it is used are described in detail below. Tire manufacturing industry Main application: The device is used in tire production lines to accurately measure the diameter and weight of the tire bead (the metal ring inside the tire rim). The tire bead plays a vital role in securely attaching the tire to the vehicle rim, and its accurate measurement is essential to ensure tire quality and safety. How it works: The device automatically measures these parameters with high accuracy (error less than 1% for diameter and 0.35% to 3.18% for weight). This allows tire manufacturers to ensure that their products comply with quality and safety standards and prevent the production of defective tires. Brief description of the invention

Claims

Claim What is claimed: Claim 1) A device for measuring the diameter and weight of a radial tire bead, comprising the following components: A camera for recording images of the tire bead; A minicomputer for processing images using a circle recognition algorithm and processing weight data; A number of weight sensors for measuring the weight of the tire bead; A measuring plate on which the tire bead is placed and connected to the weight sensors; A display for displaying the results of the diameter and weight measurements. Claim 2) According to claim 1, in which the circle detection algorithm uses the OpenCV library (SimpleBlobDetector) to calculate the tire bead diameter with an error of less than 1%. Claim 3) According to claim 1, wherein the weight sensors are of the load cell type with an HX711 module and calculate the weight of the beet with high accuracy through a Watson-bridge mechanism. Claim 4) According to claim 1, wherein the camera is a Raspberry Pi with a resolution of 5 megapixels and is connected to the minicomputer via the CSI port. Claim 5) According to claim 1, wherein the minicomputer is a Raspberry Pi type and processes the image and weight data and transmits the results to the display. Claim 6) According to claim 1, wherein the display is of the LCD touch type and is connected to the minicomputer via an HDMI port. Claim 7) According to claim 1, wherein the measuring plate is made of lightweight aluminum and is connected to four load cell sensors at its four corners. Claim 8) According to claims 1 and 3, wherein the load cell sensors are adjusted using calibration stones and the weight data is transmitted to the minicomputer via an Arduino microcontroller. Claim 9) A method for automatically measuring the diameter and weight of a radial tire bead, comprising the following steps: Recording an image of the tire bead using a camera; Processing the image using a circle recognition algorithm to calculate the diameter; Measuring the bead weight using weight sensors; Processing the diameter and weight data by a minicomputer; Displaying the results on a display. Claim 10) In accordance with claim 1, the output of the claim implementing the method of claim 9, after measurement with a software user interface implemented on a Raspberry Pi board, provides the ability to display the diameter and weight of the beet in real time. Claim 11) The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which all electronic and mechanical components are supplied from domestically sourced commercial modules and parts and are capable of simple repair and replacement without the need for special machining.

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