Magnetic drive over system (DOS) providing tire tread thickness / depth measurements

Abstract

According to some embodiments disclosed herein, a system for measuring a tire tread is provided. The system includes a non-magnetic layer that provides a surface to drive over, a magnet, and a magnetic sensor associated with the magnet. The surface to drive over is adapted to receive a tire including a tread to be measured thereon. The magnet has opposing first and second magnetic poles, the non-magnetic layer is between the surface to drive over and the magnet, and the magnet is arranged such that the first magnetic pole is between the second magnetic pole and the non-magnetic layer. The non-magnetic layer is between the surface to drive over and the magnetic sensor, and the magnetic sensor is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the magnet and the tire on the surface to drive over.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 912,299, filed on October 8, 2019, the disclosure and contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to tires and, in particular, to a system for measuring tire treads. Background Art

[0004] Currently, tire pressure sensors may be included in vehicle tires. Such sensors can be used to automatically monitor tire pressure and, when low pressure is detected, provide a warning to the driver (e.g., a warning light). However, other aspects of the tire may require manual monitoring, and failure to adequately monitor such aspects may raise safety concerns. Therefore, improved monitoring of vehicle tires may be desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to some embodiments of the inventive concept, a system for measuring a tire tread is provided. The system includes a nonmagnetic layer providing a driving surface, a magnet, and a magnetic sensor associated with the magnet. The driving surface is adapted to receive a tire having a tread to be measured thereon. The magnet has opposing first and second magnetic poles, the nonmagnetic layer is between the driving surface and the magnet, and the magnet is arranged such that the first magnetic pole is between the second magnetic pole and the nonmagnetic layer. The nonmagnetic layer is between the driving surface and the magnetic sensor, and the magnetic sensor is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the magnet and the tire on the driving surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this application, illustrate certain non-limiting embodiments of the inventive concept. In the drawings:

[0007] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a single sensor system having vertically mounted magnets and a sensor positioned along an axis between the magnets according to some embodiments of the inventive concepts;

[0008] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a multi-sensor array system having vertically mounted magnets with each sensor positioned along a respective axis between two magnets according to some embodiments of the inventive concepts;

[0009] Figure 3is a top view illustrating a linear sensor array having magnets mounted around the sensors in a square configuration, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0010] Figure 4 is a top view illustrating a linear sensor array having magnets mounted around the sensors in a pentagon configuration, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0011] Figure 5A is a top view illustrating a linear sensor array having magnets mounted around the sensors in a hexagon configuration, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0012] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view illustrating a sensor system having vertically mounted magnets, with each sensor positioned above a respective magnet, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0013] Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view illustrating a sensor system having vertically mounted magnets, with sensors positioned above and below respective magnets, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0014] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating dimensions of a sensor system, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0015] Figure 7 is a graph illustrating a response of a sensor system as a function of tread depth, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0016] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a sensor system for determining tread depth based on a magnetic field generated by residual and / or magnetostriction in a tire steel belt, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0017] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating a system including two linear sensor arrays (one array having magnets and one array having no magnets), in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts;

[0018] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a dual sensor system having magnets mounted on opposite sides of a magnet plane, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts; and

[0019] Figure 11 is a block diagram illustrating sensor system elements, in accordance with some embodiments of inventive concepts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The inventive concept will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which examples of embodiments of the inventive concept are shown. The inventive concept may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of the inventive concept to the skilled person. It should also be noted that these embodiments are not mutually exclusive. Components from one embodiment can be assumed to be present / used in another embodiment.

[0021] The following description presents various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. The embodiments are presented to teach examples, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosed subject matter. For example, certain details of the described embodiments can be modified, omitted, or extended without departing from the scope of the described subject matter.

[0022] For decades, the Hall effect has been used to characterize the electrical properties of materials, particularly in semiconductors. The Hall effect is discussed by E.H. Hall in “On a New Action of the Magnet on Electrical Current” (Amer. J. Math. 2, 287-292 (1879)). The use of the Hall effect to characterize the properties of materials is discussed in “Test Methods for Measuring Resistivity and Hall Coefficient and Determining Hall Mobility in Single-Crystal Semiconductors” (ASTM Designation F76, Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 10.04 (2011)).

[0023] Instruments to perform Hall effect measurements have existed for many years. More recently, basic Hall effect sensing circuits have been developed at the chip level for use as magnetic field sensors. These low-cost chips are typically capable of measurements in the milli-Tesla range and can be easily integrated into standard printed circuit board, PCB, designs.

[0024] Some embodiments of the inventive concept described herein can provide a magnetic sensor system for determining the rubber thickness of the outer side of a steel belt on a tire. The thickness can include both the tread rubber and the thin layer(s) of rubber between the groove bottom and the steel belt, and the thickness can be used to determine the tread depth (also referred to as the tread thickness).

[0025] The system can be enclosed in a housing that protects the electronics, sensors, and magnets, and the housing can provide a structure for the vehicle to drive over, allowing the sensors to measure the tire's response to the induced magnetic field generated by the magnets in the housing.

[0026] Some embodiments of the inventive concept can provide a magnetic sensor that, when coupled with magnets (e.g., permanent magnets or electromagnets) arranged in a plane orthogonal to the plane in which the sensor resides, provides a measurement of the magnetic field associated with the steel belt in response to the magnets when the tire is directly adjacent to the array as shown in Figure 1 Similarly, a sensor array with a companion array of magnets can be used to measure the magnetic field along the length of the array as shown in Figure 2 A non-magnetic material plate (e.g., aluminum, Delrin, etc.)— also referred to as a non-magnetic layer 103 or non-magnetic plate— can be placed on top of the sensors and the array of magnets to protect them from the tire rolling over the array as shown in Figure 1 and 2 The poles of the magnets (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) are each oriented vertically, either with all north poles N facing up and all south poles facing down as shown in Figure 1 and 2 or all south poles S facing up and all north poles N facing down.

[0027] The magnets can be arranged in a variety of ways around the sensors, including a triangle (not shown), a square as shown in Figure 3 a pentagon as shown in Figure 4 or a hexagon as shown in Figure 5A or other arrangements. Moreover, as shown in Figure 5B and 5C the magnets can be positioned such that the magnets are directly below the sensors (in the same vertical axis as the sensors).

[0028] Figure 1 A single sensor system is illustrated, with magnets 107a and 107b (e.g., permanent magnets or electromagnets) mounted vertically and facing up with the same polarity. As shown in Figure 1 All north poles N can face up toward the non-magnetic plate 103, but according to other embodiments, all south poles S can face up toward the non-magnetic plate 103. When the tire 105 rolls over the sensor— with the tread block 105b on the sensor 101— the tire 105 with the steel belt 105a is positioned above the sensor 101. The non-magnetic plate 103 protects / isolate the sensor 101 (and the magnets 107a and 107b with the frame 121) from the tire 105. While Figure 1The cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 shows two magnets 107a and 107b on opposite sides of a vertical axis 131 passing through the sensor 101, but any number of magnets may be arranged around the vertical axis 131 passing through the sensor 101, such as Figure 3 、 4 and as shown in 5A.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG, magnets 107a and 107b can be embedded in a non-magnetic frame 121. Although not shown, the Hall effect sensor 101 can also be embedded in the non-magnetic frame 121. In addition, as shown, the top surface of the magnets 107a and 107b can be below the Hall effect sensor 101 to increase the sensitivity of the system. When the tire 105 is on the non-magnetic plate 103 opposite the magnets 107a and 107b and the Hall effect sensor 101, the tire's steel belt 105a interacts with the magnetic field generated by the magnets 107a and 107b, and these interactions with the magnetic field detected by the Hall effect sensor 101 can be used to determine the tread depth / thickness 105c.

[0030] Figure 2 A multi-sensor array system is shown having magnets 107a', 107b', 107c', and 107d' (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) mounted in a non-magnetic frame 221 such that the non-magnetic plate 103 is between the magnets 107a', 107b', 107c', and 107d' and the tire 105. Figure 2 In , multiple Hall Effect sensors 101a, 101b and 101c are provided (on or embedded in the non-magnetic frame 221) to allow the tire tread depth / thickness 105c to be measured individually across the width of the tire 105. Figure 2 Each Hall effect sensor can be Figure 1 The single Hall effect sensor operates as discussed above. Although Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of shows all magnets and sensors in the same vertical plane, but the magnets can be e.g. Figure 3 、 4 and / or as shown in any one of 5A. Figure 1 As discussed, the top surface of the magnet can be below the Hall effect sensor to increase the sensitivity of the system.

[0031] Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5A The diagram shows a top view of a frame plate 221 containing magnets 107 (shown as circles) and Hall sensors 101 (shown as squares), wherein the magnets are arranged in a square shape ( Figure 3 ), pentagon ( Figure 4) and hexagonal ( Figure 5A ) are arranged around the corresponding sensors. These structures can be used with Figure 2 In accordance with some other embodiments, the sensor array shown in FIG. 1 is used together with the sensor array shown in FIG. 2 , wherein each Hall effect sensor measures the magnetic field generated by an adjacent magnet. Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5A The structure can be compared with the above Figure 1 The single Hall effect sensor discussed is used together (e.g. Figure 3 As shown in , a Hall effect sensor and four magnets are arranged in a square, as shown in Figure 4 As shown in , a Hall effect sensor and five magnets are arranged in a pentagon, or as Figure 5A As shown in Figure 1, a Hall effect sensor and six magnets are arranged in a hexagon).

[0032] Figure 3 A top view of a linear sensor array (a linear array of Hall effect sensors 101, shown as squares) is shown, wherein magnets 107 (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) are arranged around a vertical axis (relative to the vertical axis) passing through each sensor 101. Figure 3 mounted in a square configuration (with the plane of the brackets perpendicular). Figure 4 A top view of a linear sensor array (a linear array of Hall effect sensors 101, shown as squares) is shown with magnets 107 (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) positioned about a vertical axis (relative to the vertical axis) passing through each sensor. Figure 4 The plane of the cam is perpendicular to the center of the cam. Figure 5A A top view of a linear sensor array (a linear array of Hall effect sensors 101, shown as squares) is shown with magnets 107 (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) mounted in a hexagonal configuration about a vertical axis (perpendicular with respect to the plane of FIG. 5) passing through each sensor. Figure 3 、 4 In each of 5A and 5A, the magnets can be mounted symmetrically about a vertical axis passing through the array sensor to provide a magnetic field that is substantially symmetrical about the vertical axis. According to some other embodiments, two magnets can be provided on opposite sides of a vertical axis passing through the Hall effect sensor, three magnets can be provided to define an equilateral triangle about the vertical axis passing through the sensor, and so on. According to still other embodiments, cylindrical magnets can be provided to surround a vertical axis passing through the Hall effect sensor, or a single magnet can be provided below the Hall effect sensor, as described below with respect to Figure 5B and 5C discussed (such that a single magnet is coincident with the vertical axis passing through the Hall effect sensor).

[0033] Figure 5BA sensor system is illustrated in which magnets 507a and 507b (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) are mounted vertically in a frame 521, and in which the same polarity is upward, with each Hall effect sensor 501a and 501b positioned directly above the respective magnet 507a and 507b. In other words, each Hall effect sensor and respective magnet are arranged along the same vertical axis, such that the magnetic field of the magnet is symmetric about the vertical axis of the respective Hall effect sensor. While the south pole S is shown upward in Figure 5B , the opposite can be provided with all north poles N provided upward. According to embodiments of Figure 5B , a single sensor and single magnet can be provided to provide a measurement at one location of the tire, or multiple sensors / magnets can provide measurements at a respective plurality of locations across the width of the tire. Further, a non-magnetic layer / plate 503 can be provided between the sensor / frame and the tire 105.

[0034] Figure 5C A sensor system is illustrated in which magnets 507a and 507b (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) are mounted vertically in a frame 521, and in which the same polarity is upward, with a pair of Hall effect sensors positioned directly above (sensors 501a’ and 501b’) and directly below (sensors 501a” and 501b”) the respective magnets. Figure 5C The structure is the same as that of Figure 5B , with the addition of lower Hall effect sensors 501a” and 501b”. By providing a pair of Hall effect sensors, one above and one below the magnet(s), a differential measurement can be used to determine the tread depth / thickness 105c. While the south pole S is shown upward in Figure 5C , the opposite can be provided with all north poles N provided upward. According to embodiments of Figure 5C , a single sensor pair and single magnet can be provided to provide a measurement at one location of the tire, or multiple sensor pairs / magnets can provide measurements at a respective plurality of locations across the width of the tire. By providing a second Hall effect sensor below the magnet(s) for each Hall effect sensor above the magnet(s), using a sensor pair to provide a differential measurement at one location of the tire can also apply to embodiments of Figure 1 , 2 , 3, 4, and 5A. For example, in Figure 1 , the second Hall effect sensor can be provided on a lower surface of the non-magnetic frame 121 in vertical alignment with the Hall effect sensor 101 on an upper surface of the non-magnetic frame 121.

[0035] Figure 6It is a cross-sectional view that illustrates the parameters / dimensions / geometries that can be used to specify the system design. These parameters / dimensions / geometries are defined below.

[0036] Parameter Description

[0037] d bt Distance from steel belt 105a to the top of the groove

[0038] d bg The distance from the steel belt 105a to the base of the tire groove

[0039] d p Plate thickness (vertical distance)

[0040] Z ms Vertical distance from magnet to sensor

[0041] P mm Magnet to magnet pitch

[0042] D mag Magnet diameter

[0043] H mag Magnet height.

[0044] Figure 7 is a graph illustrating the sensor response for different tire tread thicknesses measured using the configuration described herein. Each tread depth was measured three times using the drive-over system DOS, and Figure 7 The corresponding means are plotted with corresponding one standard deviation error bars. Figure 7 Data from measurements obtained from different tire tread thicknesses are illustrated.

[0045] Defined as Z ms The displacement between the top surface of the magnet and the sensor (such as Figure 6 ) can provide an enhancement in sensor response by positioning the sensor in a magnetic field region that is highly sensitive to magnetic field changes due to the presence and proximity of the tire belt when the tire is positioned over the sensor. In addition, the aspect ratio of the magnet (H mag / D mag ) Combined with the magnet pitch P mm In other words, as long as the ratio of these parameters remains constant, their responses may be consistent and can be scaled.

[0046] Figure 8 The array of magnetic sensors 801 is illustrated without magnets in FIG. The magnetic field measured by the sensors may be generated by residual magnetization and / or shape anisotropy of / in the steel strip 105a. No external magnets are required to sense the magnetic field.

[0047] useFigure 8 The magnetic field strength measured by the sensor array shown without magnets can be assumed to be the maximum value produced by the steel strip 105a. The sensor 801 can be provided in / on a non-magnetic frame 821, and a non-magnetic plate / layer 803 can be provided to protect the sensor 801 from the tire 105.

[0048] Below about Figure 9 Multi-array systems are discussed. Figure 9 As shown in , two linear arrays of Hall Effect sensors may be provided, one array 903 without magnets and one array 901 with magnets. In arrays 901 and 903, squares indicate magnetic sensors and in array 901, circles indicate magnets.

[0049] According to some embodiments of the inventive concept, the system may deploy two sensor arrays perpendicular to the direction of rotation of the tire 105 - one array 901 having magnets and a second array 903 not having magnets, e.g. Figure 9 As shown in . Sensor array 901 with magnets (indicated by circles) provides a total response to both the residual magnetization in the tire steel belt (e.g., residual magnetic fields, shape anisotropy, etc. included in the tire steel belt) and the magnetic field from the magnets. Sensor array 903 without magnets only picks up the former (e.g., residual magnetic fields, shape anisotropy, etc. in the tire steel belt). The residual field can then be mathematically extracted from the response measured using the sensor array with magnets. This approach can provide a way to fine-tune the magnetic response and account for stray, residual fields. In other words, the sensors of array 901 measure the interruption of the magnetic field from the magnets of array 901 due to the presence of the tire steel belt. The closer the steel belts are, the more significant their effect on the magnetic field lines from the magnets, and therefore the more significant the change in the signal measured by the sensors.

[0050] according to Figure 10 In some other embodiments of the inventive concept shown in FIG, the system can deploy a dual sensor array perpendicular to the tire rotation direction. In the dual sensor array, the second layer of Hall sensors is provided symmetrically opposite to the top sensor and vertically below the bottom surface of the magnet at a distance Z. ms The second / lower row of Hall-effect sensors picks up a basic signal from the magnet and the surrounding environment, which can be subtracted from the top array signal. The differential signal can respond primarily / exclusively to changes in the distance of the tire from the top sensor array, providing a highly sensitive measurement of tread thickness.

[0051] Figure 10 A dual sensor system is illustrated with magnets 1007a and 1007b (eg, permanent magnets and / or electromagnets) mounted on opposite sides of the tire 105. Figure 10In the system, sensor 1001a is mounted in / on frame 1021 above the plane of magnets 1007a and 1007b, and sensor 1001b is mounted in / on frame 1021 below the plane of magnets 1007a and 1007b. In addition, a non-magnetic layer / plate 1003 is provided to protect sensors 1001a / 1001b, magnets 1007a / 1007b, and / or frame 1021 from tire 105. In addition, sensors 1001a and 1001b can be provided between magnets 1007a and 1007b along axis 1031.

[0052] Figure 11 is a block diagram of a controller 1100, which may be used in conjunction with the controller 1100 described above. Figures 1-10 The various sensor arrangements discussed are used together to provide tire tread depth / thickness 105c measurements according to some embodiments of the inventive concepts. As shown, controller 1100 may include a processor 1101 coupled to a memory 1105 and an interface 1101. Memory 1105 may include computer-readable program code that, when executed by processor 1103, causes processor 1103 to perform operations according to the embodiments disclosed herein. Controller 1100 may also include an interface 1101 coupled to processor 1103 to facilitate receiving information / signals from magnetic sensor(s) and / or other sensors, to facilitate outputting information (e.g., tire tread depth / thickness) from processor 1103 (e.g., to a display, printer, network, mobile device, etc.), and / or to accept user input (e.g., via a keyboard, touch-sensitive display, computer mouse, etc.). For example, this interface may provide a wired and / or wireless interface.

[0053] according to Figure 1 and Figure 11 In an embodiment of the present invention, a system for measuring tread depth / thickness 105c of a tire 105 may include a non-magnetic layer 103, magnets 107a and 107b (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets), a magnetic sensor 101 (e.g., a Hall effect sensor) associated with the magnets 107a and 107b, and a magnetic sensor coupled to the magnetic sensor. Figure 11 Controller 1100. A nonmagnetic layer 103 (illustrated as a nonmagnetic plate) provides a driving surface suitable for receiving a tire 105 (including a steel belt) having a tread to be measured. Magnets 107a and 107b have opposing first and second magnetic poles, with the nonmagnetic layer 103 positioned between the driving surface and the magnets, and the magnets arranged such that the first magnetic pole is between the second magnetic pole and the nonmagnetic layer. The nonmagnetic layer 103 is positioned between the driving surface and the magnetic sensor 101, and the magnetic sensor 101 is configured to detect the magnetic field generated by the magnets 107a and 107b and the tire 105 (including the steel belt 105a) on the driving surface.Figure 11 The controller 1100 is configured based on the Figure 1 The output of the magnetic sensor 101 is used to provide a tire tread depth / thickness measurement. In particular, the processor 1103 can be configured to receive information / signals from the magnetic sensor 101 (via the interface 1101), generate a measurement of the tread thickness / depth 105c based on the information / signals, and provide information about the tread depth / thickness via the interface 1101 to, for example, a display, a printer, a network, a mobile device, etc.

[0054] Although Figure 1 A sensor and associated magnet are shown, but Figure 1 Embodiments of the invention may be implemented using a row of sensors (e.g., 101a, 101b, and 101c) and associated magnets (e.g., 107a', 107b', 107c', and 107d') and a controller 1100 that receives information / signals from each sensor to provide depth / thickness measurements at various locations across the width of the tire, such as Figure 2 As shown in .

[0055] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, a first distance between the non-magnetic layer 103 and the first magnetic poles (eg, north pole N) of the magnets 107 a and 107 b may be greater than a second distance between the magnetic sensor 101 and the non-magnetic layer 103 .

[0056] exist Figure 1 , the first and second poles of each magnet have corresponding first and second polarities, magnets 107 a and 107 b are two of a plurality of magnets, the two magnets are symmetrically arranged around an axis (shown as a dotted line) passing through the magnetic sensor 101 and through the non-magnetic layer 103, and each of the plurality of magnets has a corresponding first pole of a first polarity (e.g., a north pole N) between a corresponding second pole of a second polarity (e.g., a south pole S) and the non-magnetic layer 103.

[0057] Although Figure 1 Two magnets 107a and 107b are shown on opposite sides of an axis 131 passing through magnetic sensor 101 and non-magnetic layer 103, but any number of magnets may be arranged symmetrically about axis 131 (shown as a dashed line) passing through magnetic sensor 101 and non-magnetic layer 103, such that the plurality of magnets define vertices of a polygon having its center at axis 131 (shown as a dashed line) passing through magnetic sensor 101 and non-magnetic layer 103. For example, the plurality of magnets may include three magnets defining vertices of a triangle; the plurality of magnets may include four magnets defining vertices of a square; the plurality of magnets may include five magnets defining vertices of a pentagon; or the plurality of magnets may include six magnets defining vertices of a hexagon.

[0058] According to embodiments of Figure 5B and 11 , a system for measuring a tire tread can include a non-magnetic layer 503, magnets 507a and 507b (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets), magnetic sensors 501a and 501b (e.g., Hall effect sensors), and a controller 1100. The non-magnetic layer 503 provides a ride-over surface, where the ride-over surface is adapted to receive a tire 105 (including a steel band 105a) including a tread to be measured thereon. Each of the magnets 507a and 507b has opposing first and second magnetic poles, where the non-magnetic layer 503 is between the ride-over surface and the magnets, and where each magnet is arranged such that the first magnetic pole is between the second magnetic pole and the non-magnetic layer. The magnetic sensors 501a and 501b (e.g., Hall effect sensors) are associated with respective magnets, where the non-magnetic layer 503 is between the ride-over surface and the magnetic sensors 501a and 501b, where each of the magnetic sensors 501a and 501b is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the respective magnet and the tire 105 (including the steel band) on the ride-over surface, and where each magnetic sensor is between the respective magnet and the non-magnetic surface. The controller 1100 is coupled with the magnetic sensors 501a and 501b, where the controller is configured to provide a depth / thickness measurement 105c of the tire tread based on output from the magnetic sensors 501a and 501b. In particular, the processor 1103 can be configured to receive information / signals from the magnetic sensors 501a and 501b, generate a measurement of the tread thickness / depth based on the information / signals, and provide information regarding the tread depth / thickness to, for example, a display, a printer, a network, a mobile device, etc. via the interface 1101.

[0059] While Figure 5B illustrates two magnetic sensors 501a and 501b and associated magnets 507a and 507b, Figure 5B embodiments can utilize a row of three or more sensors and associated magnets and utilize a controller 1100 that receives information / signals from each sensor to provide depth / thickness measurements at three or more different locations across the tire width. According to other embodiments, a single sensor and associated magnet can be used to provide a single depth / thickness measurement.

[0060] According to embodiments of Figure 5C and 11 , a system for measuring a tire tread can include a non-magnetic layer 503, a first pair of magnetic sensors (including magnetic sensors 501a' and 501a", e.g., Hall effect sensors), a second pair of magnetic sensors (including magnetic sensors 501b' and 501b", e.g., Hall effect sensors), magnets 507a and 507b, and a controller 1100.

[0061] The non-magnetic layer 503 provides a driving surface suitable for receiving a tire 105 (including a steel belt 105a) with a tread to be measured thereon. Each of the magnets 507a and 507b has opposing first and second magnetic poles, with the non-magnetic layer 503 positioned between the driving surface and the magnets, and each magnet positioned such that the first magnetic pole (e.g., south pole S) is positioned between the second magnetic pole (e.g., north pole N) and the non-magnetic layer 503. The sensors of each magnetic sensor pair can be oriented on opposite sides of the respective magnets, with the first sensor of the pair positioned between the respective magnet and the non-magnetic surface 503, and with the respective magnet positioned between the first and second sensors of the pair. Thus, the non-magnetic layer 503 is positioned between the driving surface and the first magnetic sensor of the pair, and the first magnetic sensor of the pair is configured to detect the magnetic field generated by the respective magnet and the tire 105 (including the steel belt) on the driving surface. Furthermore, the first magnetic sensor of the pair is positioned between the second magnetic sensor of the pair and the non-magnetic layer 503, and the second magnetic sensor of the pair is configured to detect the magnetic field generated by the respective magnet.

[0062] Controller 1100 is coupled to each pair of first and second magnetic sensors, wherein the controller is configured to provide a tire tread depth / thickness measurement based on the respective outputs from each pair of first and second magnetic sensors. For example, processor 1103 can be configured to generate a first tread thickness / depth measurement based on information / signals from magnetic sensors 501a' and 501a" (a first magnetic sensor pair) (received via interface 1101), and to generate a second tread thickness / depth measurement based on information / signals from magnetic sensors 501b' and 501b" (a second magnetic sensor pair) (received via interface 1101). Furthermore, processor 1103 can be configured to provide information regarding tread depth / thickness via interface 1101 to, for example, a display, a printer, a network, a mobile device, or the like.

[0063] Although Figure 5C There are two sensor pairs 501a' / 501a" and 501b' / 501b" and associated magnets 507a and 507b shown in FIG. Figure 5C Embodiments may be implemented utilizing a row of three or more sensor pairs and associated magnets and utilizing a controller 1100 that receives information / signals from each of the sensor pairs to provide depth / thickness measurements at three or more different locations across the width of the tire. According to other embodiments, a single sensor pair and associated magnet may be used to provide a single depth / thickness measurement.

[0064] according to Figure 9 and Figure 11For example embodiments, a system for measuring a tire tread can include a non-magnetic layer, a first array of magnetic sensors (e.g., Hall effect sensors) 901 shown as squares (with corresponding magnets shown as circles), a second array of magnetic sensors (without magnets) 903 shown as squares, and a controller 1100. The non-magnetic layer can provide a ride-over surface as discussed above with respect to other embodiments, where the ride-over surface is adapted to receive a tire (including a steel belt) including a tread to be measured thereon. Each magnet has opposing first and second magnetic poles as discussed above with respect to other embodiments, where the non-magnetic layer is between the ride-over surface and the magnet, and where each magnet is arranged such that the first magnetic pole is between the second magnetic pole and the non-magnetic layer. Such an array of magnets is illustrated in FIG. 1 as hollow circles. Figure 9

[0065] The first magnetic sensors (e.g., first Hall effect sensors) of array 901 are associated with corresponding magnets, where the non-magnetic layer is between the ride-over surface and the first magnetic sensors, and where the first magnetic sensors are configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the magnets and a tire (including a steel belt) on the ride-over surface. Figure 9 An array 901 of such first magnetic sensors (solid squares) with associated magnets (hollow circles) is shown.

[0066] The second magnetic sensors (e.g., second Hall effect sensors) of array 903 are spaced apart from the first magnetic sensors in a direction parallel with respect to the ride-over surface, where the non-magnetic layer is between the ride-over surface and the second magnetic sensors, and where the second magnetic sensors are configured to detect a magnetic field generated by a tire (including a steel belt) on the ride-over surface. Figure 9 An array 903 of such second magnetic sensors (solid squares) without magnets is shown to the left of the first array of magnetic sensors 901. Thus, the magnetic sensors of the first and second arrays can be arranged such that a tire rolls over one array before the other array.

[0067] ​For the first and second magnetic sensor arrays, each first sensor can be associated with a respective one of the second sensors to define a pair. Thus, the controller 1100 can be coupled with the first and second magnetic sensors of each pair, where the controller is configured to provide a depth / thickness measurement of the tire tread based on respective outputs from the first and second magnetic sensors of each pair. For example, the processor 1103 can be configured to generate a first tread thickness / depth measurement based on information / signals from the first pair of magnetic sensors (received through the interface 1101) and a second tread thickness / depth measurement based on information / signals from the second pair of magnetic sensors (received through the interface 1101). Further, the processor 1103 can be configured to provide information regarding the tread depth / thickness through the interface 1101 to, for example, a display, a printer, a network, a mobile device, etc.

[0068] According to Figure 10 and 11 embodiments, a system for measuring a tire tread can include a non-magnetic layer 1003, first and second magnetic sensors 1001a and 1001b (e.g., Hall effect sensors), magnets 1007a and 1007b (e.g., permanent magnets and / or electromagnets), and a controller 1100. The non-magnetic layer 1003 provides a ride-over surface, where the ride-over surface is adapted to receive a tire 105 (including a steel belt) including a tread to be measured thereon. Each of the magnets 1007a and 1007b has opposing first and second magnetic poles, where the non-magnetic layer 1003 is between the ride-over surface and the magnets 1007a and 1007b, and where each of the magnets 1007a and 1007b is arranged such that the first magnetic pole is between the second magnetic pole and the non-magnetic layer 1003. The first magnetic sensor 1001a is associated with the magnets 1007a and 1007b, where the non-magnetic layer 1003 is between the ride-over surface and the first magnetic sensor 1001a, and where the first magnetic sensor 1001a is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the magnets 1007a and 1007b and the tire (including the steel belt) on the ride-over surface. The second magnetic sensor 1001b is associated with the magnets 1007a and 1007b and with the first magnetic sensor 1001a, where the first magnetic sensor 1001a is between the second magnetic sensor 1001b and the non-magnetic layer 1003, and where the second magnetic sensor 1001b is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the magnets 1007a and 1007b. The controller 1100 can be configured to provide a depth / thickness measurement of the tire tread based on respective outputs from the first and second magnetic sensors 1001a and 1001b.

[0069] As shown, a first distance between the first poles of the magnets 1007a and 1007b and the non-magnetic layer 1003 can be greater than a second distance between the first magnetic sensor 1001a and the non-magnetic layer 1003, and wherein a third distance between the second poles of the magnets 1007a and 1007b and the non-magnetic layer 1003 can be less than a fourth distance between the second magnetic sensor 1001b and the non-magnetic layer 1003.

[0070] As shown, the first and second poles of the magnets 1007a and 1007b can have respective first and second polarities, the magnets 1007a and 1007b are two of a plurality of magnets, the two magnets are symmetrically arranged about an axis (shown in dashed line) through the first and second magnetic sensors 1001a and 1001b and through the non-magnetic layer 1003, and each of the plurality of magnets can have a respective first pole of the first polarity between a respective second pole of the second polarity and the non-magnetic layer 1003. As Figure 10 As shown in the middle, the plurality of magnets can include two magnets 1007a and 1007b, which are on opposite sides of an axis through the first and second magnetic sensors 1001a and 1001b and through the non-magnetic layer 1003. According to other embodiments, the plurality of magnets can define vertices of a polygon having a center at an axis through the magnetic sensors 1001a and 1001b and the non-magnetic layer 1003. For example, the plurality of magnets can include three magnets defining vertices of a triangle; the plurality of magnets can include four magnets defining vertices of a square; the plurality of magnets can include five magnets defining vertices of a pentagon; or the plurality of magnets can include six magnets defining vertices of a hexagon.

[0071] In the above description of various embodiments of the inventive concept, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the inventive concept. Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this inventive concept belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0072] When an element is referred to as being "connected", "coupled", "responsive", or variants thereof to another element, it can be directly connected, coupled, or responsive to the other element, or intervening elements can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected", "directly coupled", "directly responsive", or variants thereof to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout. Additionally, the use of "coupled", "connected", "responsive", or variants thereof, employed herein can include wireless coupling, connection, or response. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Well-known functions or constructions can not be described in detail for brevity and / or clarity. The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0073] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements / operations, these elements / operations should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element / operation from another element / operation. Thus, a first element / operation in some embodiments can be termed a second element / operation in other embodiments without departing from the teachings of the present inventive concepts. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals or the same reference designations can be used for the same or similar elements / operations.

[0074] As used herein, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", "has", "having", "contains", "containing", "characterized by", "includes", "including", "has", "having", "with", or variants thereof are open-ended, and include one or more of the recited features, integers, elements, steps, components, or functions, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof. Additionally, as used herein, the common abbreviation "e.g." is used to introduce examples only and does not exclude other non-recited examples or options. The common abbreviation "i.e." is used to specify a particular item from a more general recitation.

[0075] For clarity, the size of the elements in the figures can be exaggerated, and positions and / or proportions of an element can be shown exaggerated in the figures. It will also be understood that, when an element is referred to as being on another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements can also be present. In addition, terms such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "positioned on", "positioned above", "positioned below", and the like, are used herein, merely for convenience and are not intended to connote orientation in space. For example, when the top portion of the figure is referred to as "top" and the bottom portion of the figure is referred to as "bottom", in practice, the "top" can also be referred to as "bottom" and the "bottom" can also be referred to as "top", without departing from the teachings of the present inventive concepts, e.g., if the structure is rotated 180 degrees with respect to the orientation of the figure.

[0076] The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions / acts specified in the block diagrams and / or flowchart block or blocks. Alternatively, computer program implemented steps can be

[0077] These computer program instructions can also be stored in a tangible computer-readable medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the functions / acts specified in the block diagrams and / or flowchart block or blocks. Accordingly, embodiments of the present inventive concepts can be embodied in hardware and / or in software (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) that runs on a processor (which can be also referred to as a controller) such as a digital signal processor, which can collectively be referred to as "circuitry", "a module" or variations thereof.

[0078] It is also noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the flowcharts. For example, two blocks shown in succession can in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the actions of a single block can be performed over a time period / interval. In addition, the functionality of given blocks can be separated or integrated into other blocks than those described. Finally, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, some of the functions could be implemented by firmware, software, hardware, or a combination of these methods.

[0079] Many modifications and variations of the embodiments described herein are possible and are intended to be included within the scope of the present inventive concept. Accordingly, the subject matter of the above disclosure should be considered in all its illustrative aspects and not restrictive. The examples of embodiments are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments, which fall within the spirit and scope of the present inventive concept. Therefore, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present inventive concept is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the present disclosure including the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.

Claims

1. A system for measuring a tire tread, the system comprising: a non-magnetic layer that provides a passing surface, wherein the passing surface is adapted to receive a tire including a tire tread to be measured thereon; a magnet having first and second opposing magnetic poles, wherein the non-magnetic layer is between the passing surface and the magnet, and wherein the magnet is arranged such that the first magnetic pole is between the second magnetic pole and the non-magnetic layer; and a magnetic sensor associated with the magnet, wherein the non-magnetic layer is between the passing surface and the magnetic sensor, and wherein the magnetic sensor is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the magnet and the tire on the passing surface.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein a first distance between the first magnetic pole of the magnet and the non-magnetic layer is greater than a second distance between the magnetic sensor and the non-magnetic layer.

3. The system of any of claims 1-2, wherein the first and second magnetic poles have respective first and second polarities, wherein the magnet is one of a plurality of magnets arranged symmetrically about an axis that passes through the magnetic sensor and through the non-magnetic layer, and wherein each of the plurality of magnets has a respective first pole of the first polarity between a respective second pole of the second polarity and the non-magnetic layer.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the plurality of magnets define vertices of a polygon having a center that is on the axis that passes through the magnetic sensor and the non-magnetic layer.

5. The system of any of claims 3-4, wherein the plurality of magnets includes three magnets that define vertices of a triangle.

6. The system of any of claims 3-4, wherein the plurality of magnets includes four magnets that define vertices of a square.

7. The system of any of claims 3-4, wherein the plurality of magnets includes five magnets that define vertices of a pentagon.

8. The system of any of claims 3-4, wherein the plurality of magnets includes six magnets that define vertices of a hexagon.

9. The system of claim 3, wherein the plurality of magnets includes two magnets that are on opposite sides of the axis that passes through the magnetic sensor and the non-magnetic layer.

10. The system of claim 2, wherein the magnetic sensor is between the magnet and the non-magnetic surface.

11. The system of any of claims 1-10, further comprising: a controller coupled with the magnetic sensor, wherein the controller is configured to provide a measurement of the tire tread based on output from the magnetic sensor.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the magnetic sensor is a first magnetic sensor, the system further comprising: a second magnetic sensor associated with the magnet and with the first magnetic sensor, wherein the first magnetic sensor is between the second magnetic sensor and the non-magnetic layer, and wherein the second magnetic sensor is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the magnet.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein, a first distance between the first pole of the magnet and the non-magnetic layer is greater than a second distance between the first magnetic sensor and the non-magnetic layer, and wherein a third distance between the second pole of the magnet and the non-magnetic layer is less than a fourth distance between the second magnetic sensor and the non-magnetic layer.

14. The system of any of claims 12-13, wherein the first and second magnetic poles have respective first and second polarities, wherein the magnet is one of a plurality of magnets arranged symmetrically about an axis through the first and second magnetic sensors and through the non-magnetic layer, and wherein each of the plurality of magnets has a respective first pole of the first polarity between the respective second pole of the second polarity and the non-magnetic layer.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of magnets define vertices of a polygon having a center at the axis through the magnetic sensors and the non-magnetic layer.

16. The system of any of claims 14-15, wherein the plurality of magnets includes three magnets defining vertices of a triangle.

17. The system of any of claims 14-15, wherein the plurality of magnets includes four magnets defining vertices of a square.

18. The system of any of claims 14-15, wherein the plurality of magnets includes five magnets defining vertices of a pentagon.

19. The system of any of claims 14-15, wherein the plurality of magnets includes six magnets defining vertices of a hexagon.

20. The system of claim 14, wherein, the plurality of magnets includes two magnets on opposite sides of the axis through the first and second magnetic sensors and through the non-magnetic layer.

21. The system of claim 13, wherein, the first magnetic sensor is between the magnet and the non-magnetic surface, and wherein the magnet is between the first and second magnetic sensors.

22. The system of any of claims 12-21, further comprising: a controller coupled with the first and second magnetic sensors, wherein the controller is configured to provide a measurement of the tire tread based on respective outputs from the first and second magnetic sensors.

23. The system of any one of claims 1-10, wherein, the magnetic sensor is a first magnetic sensor, the system further comprising: a second magnetic sensor spaced apart from the first magnetic sensor in a direction parallel relative to the surface of travel, wherein the non-magnetic layer is between the surface of travel and the second magnetic sensor, and wherein the second magnetic sensor is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by a tire on the surface of travel.

24. The system of claim 21, wherein, the first and second magnetic sensors are configured such that the tire rolls over one before the other.

25. The system of any of claims 23-24, further comprising: a controller coupled with the first and second magnetic sensors, wherein the controller is configured to provide a measurement of the tire tread based on respective outputs from the first and second magnetic sensors.

26. The system of any of claims 1-10, wherein the magnet is a first magnet, and wherein the magnetic sensor is a first magnetic sensor, the system further comprising: a second magnet, wherein the non-magnetic layer is between the surface of travel and the magnet; and a second magnetic sensor associated with the second magnet, wherein the non-magnetic layer is between the surface of travel and the second magnetic sensor, and wherein the magnetic sensor is configured to detect a magnetic field generated by the second magnet and a tire on the surface of travel.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the first and second magnetic sensors are spaced apart in a direction parallel relative to a direction of travel over the surface.

28. The system of any one of claims 26-27, configured such that, as the tire rolls over the surface, different portions of the tire across a tire width align with the first and second magnetic sensors.

29. The system of any one of claims 26-28, further comprising: a controller coupled with the first and second magnetic sensors, wherein the controller is configured to provide a first measurement of a first portion of the tire tread based on output from the first magnetic sensor and a second measurement of a second portion of the tire tread based on output from the second magnetic sensor.

30. The system of any one of claims 1-29, wherein, the magnetic sensors comprise Hall effect sensors.

31. The system of any one of claims 1-30, wherein, the magnets comprise at least one of a permanent magnet and / or an electromagnet.

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