Device and method for assembling and removing tyres

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for assembling and removing tyres. The device comprises a wheel holder unit (6) rotating about a first axis (A) oriented vertically; a column (8) having a vertical guide (10); a carriage (11) coupled to the vertical guide for vertical sliding; an arm (15) connected to the carriage; the device further comprises an operating head (16) pivotally connected to the arm for rotation about a second axis (B) transverse to the first axis and provided with a plurality of tools (18); each tool is operatively insertable in a working position between the bead of a tyre (2) and the annular edge of a rim (3); the tools are alternately selectable by rotating the operating head in a respective operating configuration in which the tools are positioned in the working position; the arm (15) is movably connected to the carriage so that the arm can be moved between an active position in which the arm is oriented towards the first axis and an inactive position spaced apart from the active position and away from the first axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to apparatus and methods for assembling and removing tires. Background Technology

[0002] Tire changing machines equipped with numerous tools are known in the prior art for removing tires from and subsequently mounting them onto rims. These tools are configured to operably contact the tire to perform the required operations. For example, known types of tire changing machines are described in documents US2020324590 and US2013206341. Other known solutions provide tire changing machines in which each tool includes its own movement system. However, the presence of multiple movement systems limits the operator's field of vision and freedom of movement. Furthermore, the diversity of movement systems significantly increases the overall size of the tire changing machine, resulting in considerable structural complexity. This complexity increases production and maintenance costs. Moreover, greater complexity makes the machine more difficult for the operator to use, compromising reliability, increasing the risk of errors, and reducing accuracy.

[0003] To overcome this problem, solutions such as those described in patent documents EP2962876 and CN110126558 are known, in which the tire changing machine includes a rotating operating head. The operating head supports three tools (a tire-changing tool, a removal tool, and a fitting tool mounted at 120° to each other) so that these tools can be selectively and alternately positioned in the operating position by rotating the operating head.

[0004] However, such machines have inherent drawbacks because they do not allow for easy and efficient tire mounting and removal, and do not offer operators convenience or time-saving capabilities. While solutions with rotating operating heads do significantly reduce overall size, the tools equipped with the operating head still make operational contact with the tire. Therefore, the rotating operating head must be positioned within the operating area close to where the wheel is located, making moving the tire and / or rim more cumbersome when mounting and dismounting the tire and / or rim on the wheel retainer unit.

[0005] Furthermore, positioning and / or moving the tool can be done manually by the operator. In this case, assistive systems are known in the prior art to help the user position the tool relative to the wheel mounted on the wheel retainer unit, so as to position the tool relative to the tire at the location required for the specific operation to be performed. For example, documents US2019315166, US8284390, and EP4275924 describe an assistive system that includes sensors capable of detecting a series of geometric parameters (e.g., diameter, thickness, and height) related to the tire and / or rim. These parameters can also be acquired in the form of three-dimensional images. In the documents cited above, the detected parameters are sent to a processing unit configured to drive an actuator based on the acquired data, which moves the working unit supporting the tool. Alternatively, the detected parameters can serve only as visual cues to help the operator make manual positioning easier. Furthermore, document EP3075577 shows a transmitter connected to the column of a tire changing machine. The described sensor system has the disadvantage of occupying additional space in the working area, which, as already mentioned, is quite limited, which in turn means that there is little room for maneuver when the operator must move the wheels.

[0006] Furthermore, the sensor systems described in existing technical literature are not always reliable and accurate in providing the necessary indications for correctly positioning the tool and wheel relative to each other. In reality, tire changing machines can be subjected to significant bending stress. This stress is a result of the forces generated between the tool and the tire and released onto the machine during tire removal and installation. This bending can alter the measurements or indications provided by the sensor system, making them unstable or unreliable. It should be noted that the greater the distance between the sensor system's indicator (e.g., a laser indicator) and the tool, the greater the effect of bending and the greater the inaccuracy of the indication. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure aims to provide an apparatus and method for assembling and removing tires to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art.

[0008] In particular, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for fitting and removing tires that increases maneuvering space to make it easier for an operator to move the tires and / or rims.

[0009] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a positioning assistance sensor system to make assembly operations convenient, practical, fast, and accurate. In particular, the positioning assistance sensor system must allow for the accurate and reliable detection of the interoperability position between the tool and the tire in the work area.

[0010] These objectives are fully achieved by the apparatus and methods of this disclosure as characterized in the appended claims.

[0011] Specifically, this disclosure provides an apparatus for fitting and removing tires. The apparatus includes a wheel retainer unit. The wheel retainer unit is configured to rotate about a first axis. The first axis is vertically oriented. The apparatus includes a column. The column is provided with a vertical guide. The apparatus includes a carriage. The carriage is coupled to the vertical guide. The carriage is configured to slide vertically along the vertical guide. The apparatus includes an arm. The arm is connected to the carriage. The apparatus includes an operating head. The operating head is pivotally connected to the arm. The operating head is configured to rotate about a second axis. The second axis is transverse to the first axis. The operating head is provided with a plurality of tools. Each tool is operably inserted between the tire bead and the annular edge of the rim in a working position. Each tool not operably inserted between the tire bead and the annular edge of the rim is in an idle position. Tools can be alternately selected by rotating the operating head in a corresponding operating configuration. In the corresponding operating configuration, the tools are positioned in the working position. In one example, the plurality of tools includes a tire-removing tool, a tire-removing tool, and a fitting tool. Preferably, the tools are spaced 120° apart from each other. In one example, in the working position, the tools are operably oriented toward the wheel mounted on the wheel retainer unit.

[0012] In one example, the operating head and the wheel retainer unit are movable relative to each other. In another example, the operating head and / or the wheel retainer unit are movable relative to the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the first axis.

[0013] In one example, the arm extends in a lateral direction. In another example, the lateral direction is parallel to the floor. The second axis can be parallel to the lateral direction. In one example, the lateral direction coincides with the second axis. Alternatively, the second axis can be perpendicular to the lateral direction. It should be noted that in this configuration, the axis of rotation of the operating head is perpendicular to the direction of arm extension.

[0014] In one example, the arm is movably connected to the carriage, allowing it to move between an enabled and a disabled position. In the enabled position, the arm is oriented toward a first axis. In the disabled position, the arm is spaced away from the first axis and away from the enabled position. This arrangement allows the arm to move according to the operation to be performed. When a user must perform the operations required to mount and remove a tire from a rim, the necessary tool is the one oriented toward the wheel in the operating position. When the user needs more space to move the wheel (or its rim), for example, to place it onto or remove it from a wheel retainer unit, the arm can be unlocked and moved further to create more space.

[0015] In one example, the arm is hinged to the carriage. The arm can be moved between an enabled and disabled position by rotating it about a third axis parallel to the first axis. This arrangement makes moving the arm easy and efficient, as the arm rotates about the third axis while maintaining the same orientation relative to the second axis.

[0016] In one example, the arm is configured to move in a horizontal plane by rotating about a third axis. A "horizontal plane" refers to a plane parallel to the floor.

[0017] In one example, the device includes a resilient element. The resilient element is connected to a carriage. The resilient element is configured to force the arm into a deactivated position. In this way, the arm connected to the resilient element is forced to automatically open, moving from an activated position to a deactivated position.

[0018] In one example, the elastic element is a torsion spring. The torsion spring is able to effectively hold the arm in the "normally off" position.

[0019] In one example, the device includes at least one locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is configured to lock the arm in the enabled position. The locking mechanism is also configured to unlock the arm from the enabled position, thereby allowing the arm to move from the enabled position to the deactivated position. This arrangement allows the arm to be locked in the enabled position. In practice, without the locking mechanism, the arm would be forced open and would not be able to stop in the enabled position where the tool can operate in contact with the tire. Furthermore, the locking mechanism is configured to overcome the force that the resilient element tends to exert on the arm, forcing the arm into the deactivated position.

[0020] In one example, the device includes two locking mechanisms, one positioned above the other relative to the vertical direction. The locking mechanisms can be aligned relative to the vertical direction. In other words, it is possible to align the locking mechanisms so that they overlap when viewed from above. This arrangement allows for a more robust and balanced locking of the arm to the carriage.

[0021] In one example, the locking mechanism includes a locking member. The locking member is movable between a locked position and a released position. The locking member includes an actuating member. The actuating member is connected to the locking member. This design allows for quick and easy manual locking and unlocking of the arm.

[0022] In one example, the locking mechanism includes a lever. The lever is hinged to an arm. The lever has a first end and a second end. A locking member is connected to the first end. The actuating member includes a handle. The handle is connected to the second end. This arrangement makes it easier for a user to manually grip and move the locking mechanism. In practice, in one example, the movement of the arm from the deactivated position to the activated position is manually performed by the operator. In another example, the movement is performed automatically by an actuator.

[0023] In one example, the carriage includes a cavity. The locking member includes a hook. The hook is configured to be removably inserted into the cavity to lock the arm in the enabled position. This approach allows for the use of a safe and reliable hook system to lock the arm.

[0024] In one example, the operating head is removably attached to the arm. This configuration allows the operating head to be moved from the arm when the tool or the operating head itself needs to be replaced or for maintenance purposes.

[0025] In one example, the operating head includes a connecting shaft. The connecting shaft can be removably inserted into the arm. Specifically, the connecting shaft can be removably inserted into the arm through an opening formed in the arm. The device includes a retaining pin. The retaining pin can be removably inserted into a through-hole to engage the connecting shaft of the arm and the operating head. This arrangement allows the operating head to be secured to the arm and removed when necessary.

[0026] The device includes a frame. The frame can support a wheel retainer unit. In one example, the wheel retainer unit is mounted on the frame. The wheel retainer unit projects upward from the frame. The frame has a working side facing the work area. The work area is the space that can be occupied by the user of the device. A column has a working side facing the work area. In one example, a vertical guide is positioned on the working side of the column. The device includes a set of pedals. This set of pedals is positioned on or near the working side of the frame. In one example, the pedals transmit wireless signals to corresponding actuators; alternatively, the pedals are connected to the actuators via pipes or signal cables. In one example, the set of pedals can be coupled to the working side of the frame.

[0027] This design allows for the creation of a limited physical space within the device corresponding to the user's operational work position. Furthermore, the positioning of the pedal set within the work area not only allows the user to manipulate the operating head and / or locking mechanism, but also allows the user to operate the pedal set without moving from the work position. This eliminates the need for the user to move around the device to perform different operations. Consequently, users spend less time assembling and removing tires, resulting in more efficient operation.

[0028] In one example, the frame supports the column. In another example, the frame is equipped with a horizontal guide. The horizontal guide supports the column. The column can slide along the horizontal guide in a sliding direction. The sliding direction is horizontal. The horizontal direction defined by the horizontal guide is the direction in which the column approaches and moves away from the wheel retainer unit. This arrangement allows for additional degrees of freedom for the operating head. In particular, this arrangement allows the operating head to move toward and away from the wheel retainer unit, thus allowing the tool to move toward and away from the wheel retainer unit. This can be useful for precise operation after the tool is close to the wheel, as well as for moving the operating head away from the work area and making it easier for the user to move the wheel. It should be noted that, for safety reasons, the movement of the column along the horizontal guide cannot be very fast. Furthermore, when the tires to be replaced are of the same type (e.g., wheels of motor vehicles), it is convenient to leave the column in the same position and release the arm to provide the user with more space to move the wheel. Releasing the arm takes less time (and requires less energy) than moving the column.

[0029] In one example, the column is fixed, and the horizontal guide is configured to support and guide the wheel retainer unit toward and away from the column. This configuration also allows for ensuring the wheel retainer unit's proximity / remote movement relative to the tool.

[0030] In one example, the connecting shaft is slidably mounted within an opening formed in the arm. The connecting shaft can slide horizontally relative to the arm toward and away from the wheel retainer unit. This arrangement allows the column to remain fixed while still allowing the tool to move horizontally toward or away from the wheel.

[0031] In one example, the device includes a control panel. The control panel is positioned within the work area. The control panel is configured to control the movement of the carriage along a vertical guide. This configuration allows for manual control of the carriage's movement along the vertical guide. Furthermore, the user can perform this operation while remaining stationary within the space defined by the work area.

[0032] In one example, the device includes an illuminator. The illuminator is configured to generate a laser beam. The illuminator can be attached to an arm. Alternatively, the illuminator can be attached to an operating head. The laser beam is oriented in a downward direction. Preferably, the laser beam is oriented in a direction parallel to a first axis. This configuration allows illumination of a point on the wheel mounted on the wheel retainer unit to help the user position the tool near the wheel.

[0033] In one example, the lateral direction is parallel to the second axis. The operating head is inserted between the illuminator and the arm along the lateral direction. This arrangement allows the illuminator to be positioned so that the tool does not interfere with the propagation of the laser beam. In other words, the laser beam path is unobstructed and the laser light can freely illuminate the points on the wheel.

[0034] In one example, the operating head is provided with a through hole. The through hole is oriented along a second axis. The through hole can be oriented in a transverse direction. The illuminator is connected to the arm via a rod. The rod is positioned in the through hole. Preferably, the rod is coaxial with the through hole. The operating head can rotate freely relative to the rod. The rotation of the illuminator relative to the operating head is stationary. This arrangement allows the illuminator and arm to be rigidly connected while keeping the operating head inserted between them. At the same time, this arrangement allows the operating head to rotate freely. In one example, the operating head can be locked in a predetermined angular position corresponding to those angular positions of the tool in the operating configuration. In other words, the operating head can be provided with a quick-lock / unlock system that allows the tool to be positioned in the direction of the wheel (i.e., vertical orientation) and remain stable in that orientation.

[0035] In one example, the radial dimension of the illuminator relative to the second axis exceeds the radial dimension of the through hole. The illuminator is removably attached to the rod. This configuration allows the illuminator to be removed from the rod. Thus, the operating head can also be removed by sliding it away from the rod. Alternatively, the operating head can be removed after both the illuminator and the rod have been removed. It should be noted that if the radial dimension of the illuminator relative to the second axis is smaller than the radial dimension of the through hole, the operating head can be slid out without removing the illuminator.

[0036] In one example, the device includes a connecting shaft. The connecting shaft has a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to an arm. The second end is rotatably connected to an operating head. A rod is fixed to the second end of the connecting shaft. The connecting shaft is provided with a seat radially oriented relative to a second axis. In one example, the arm is provided with a through hole. The through hole of the arm is radially oriented relative to the second axis. The connecting shaft is removably connected to the arm at a predetermined relative angular position. The through hole of the arm is aligned with the seat of the connecting shaft. The device includes a fastening pin. The fastening pin is slidably engaged with the through hole of the arm. Thus, the fastening pin can be removably inserted into the seat of the connecting shaft. This arrangement allows for effective locking and unlocking of the connecting shaft relative to the arm, thereby enabling the operating head to be removed from (and fitted onto) the arm.

[0037] In one example, the illuminator is coaxially positioned relative to a second axis. The illuminator is removably connected to the operating head. The operating head includes a seat. The illuminator can be connected to the seat of the operating head at multiple angular positions. This arrangement allows the illuminator to be removed and inserted at different locations. In this example, the illuminator and the operating head rotate as a single unit. Therefore, after the operating head rotates, the laser beam from the illuminator is not directed towards the wheel. Therefore, it is necessary to remove the illuminator and reconnect it to the operating head at different angular positions to allow the laser beam to be directed towards the wheel. In another example, the illuminator is pivotally connected to the operating head. The illuminator can rotate relative to the operating head. This arrangement allows the illuminator to remain connected to the operating head while ensuring their free rotation relative to each other. Thus, after the operating head rotates, the illuminator does not rotate and maintains the laser beam directed towards the wheel.

[0038] In one example, the laser beam is vertically oriented.

[0039] In one example, the device includes one or more actuators. The one or more actuators are configured to move the carriage along a vertical guide. The device includes a control unit. The control unit is connected to the actuators. In one example, the control unit is configured to set a first sliding speed or a second sliding speed for the carriage. The second sliding speed is greater than the first sliding speed. Preferably, the second sliding speed is twice the first sliding speed. In one example, the control unit is programmed to automatically switch from the first sliding speed to the second sliding speed. In one example, the switch from the first sliding speed to the second sliding speed occurs after the carriage has moved at the first speed for a predetermined period of time.

[0040] In one example, the control panel includes one or more control elements. These control elements are connected to the control unit to transmit commands to it. The control elements are configured to interact with a user, allowing the user to transmit commands to the actuator and select a first sliding speed or a second sliding speed. Preferably, the control elements include at least one joystick. Alternatively, or in combination with each other, the control elements include keys or touchpad controls or other devices configured to be directly operated by the user and to communicate with the control unit.

[0041] In one example, a control unit is configured to set a predetermined stroke for the carriage. The control unit is connected to an actuator to cause the carriage to move a predetermined length. The control element is configured to interact with a user, allowing the user to pass commands to the actuator and move the carriage a predetermined stroke. This approach allows for precise control of the tool's movement toward the wheel. In practice, by setting a short, predetermined stroke, the tool can gradually move toward the wheel. Without this possibility, if the tool is moved manually toward the wheel in a continuous manner, the user is more likely to be less precise in positioning the tool, risking contact between the tool and the wheel rim.

[0042] In one example, the device includes another column. This other column is separate from the aforementioned column. The device includes a bead pressing tool. The bead pressing tool is configured to operably contact the wheel. The bead pressing tool is adapted to apply a force parallel to a first axis to the tire while rotating integrally with the wheel. The bead pressing tool is connected to the other column. This configuration allows the tool to be mounted on a support other than the column. It should be noted that, operably, when the bead pressing tool is in contact with the tire, the bead pressing tool applies a force to the tire (and vice versa). If the bead pressing tool is mounted on the column, the force will be released onto the column, causing it to bend. The bending of the column will cause a change in the direction of the laser beam, thereby reducing the accuracy and effectiveness of the illuminator.

[0043] In one example, the apparatus includes a sensor system. The sensor system is configured to detect a tool positioned within the operating configuration among multiple tools. This approach allows the control unit and operator to precisely determine the tool's position relative to an absolute reference based on the rotation of the operating head.

[0044] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method for fitting a tire to and removing a tire from a corresponding rim of a vehicle wheel is provided. The method includes the step of providing a wheel retainer unit. The wheel retainer unit is rotatable about a vertically oriented first axis. The method includes the step of locking a wheel onto the wheel retainer unit. The method includes the step of providing a post having a vertical guide. The method includes the step of providing a carriage slidably coupled to the post. The method includes the step of providing an arm connected to the carriage. The method includes the step of providing an operating head connected to the arm. The operating head is rotatable about a second axis transverse to the first axis. The operating head includes a plurality of tools. The method includes the step of selecting one of the plurality of tools by rotating the operating head about the second axis. The method includes the step of inserting the selected tool into a working position by vertically moving the arm between the tire bead and the annular edge of the rim. The method includes the step of fitting a tire to the rim by rotating the wheel retainer unit about the first axis. The method includes the step of removing a tire from the rim by rotating the wheel retainer unit about the first axis.

[0045] In one example, the method includes the step of moving the arm from an activated position, oriented toward a first axis, to a deactivated position spaced apart from the activated position. In another example, the method includes an initial step where the arm is in the deactivated position. The arm is oriented toward the wheel, meaning that the arm is not placed in the activated position until the wheel has been positioned (and secured) onto the wheel retainer unit. Thus, the steps of the method provide the operator with the space required to position the wheel onto and remove it from the wheel retainer unit.

[0046] In one example, an arm extends from a first end to a second end along a second axis. An operating head is attached to the arm at the second end. The arm is hinged to a carriage at the first end, such that the arm moves relative to the carriage between an enabled position and a disabled position with rotational movement about a third axis parallel to the first axis.

[0047] In one example, the method includes the step of providing an illuminator capable of generating a laser beam. The illuminator may be attached to an operating head or arm. The method may also include the step of using the laser beam as a reference on a wheel to position a selected tool in a working position.

[0048] In one example, the method includes the following steps: the illuminator is removably attached to the arm, allowing the operating head to be rotated to select a tool without rotating the illuminator.

[0049] The method may also include a step of pre-positioning one of a plurality of tools. The pre-positioning step includes holding the operating head in a high, upward position relative to the vertical extension of the vertical guide and column. The pre-positioning step includes using a laser beam as a vertical reference to move the tool horizontally toward or away from the first axis. Once horizontally positioned, the tool can be vertically lowered along the vertical guide toward the wheel mounted on the wheel retainer unit. It should be noted that the movement of the tool can be controlled by the operator using control elements on a control panel, or they can be performed automatically. In the case of automatic operation, an emergency system is preferably provided to allow the operator to interrupt operation in case of problems.

[0050] This disclosure relates to a tire changing apparatus known as a "lightweight" device, in which the axis of rotation (first axis) of the wheel retainer unit is substantially vertical. It should be noted that the principles of this disclosure, with necessary modifications, are also applicable to known "heavyweight" tire changing machines in which the axis of rotation of the wheel retainer unit is substantially horizontal. Attached Figure Description

[0051] These and other features will become more apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments shown by way of non-limiting example only in the accompanying drawings:

[0052] - Figure 1 A front perspective view of the apparatus for assembling and removing tires is shown;

[0053] - Figure 2 A rear-view perspective view of the device is shown;

[0054] - Figure 3 The arm and operating head are shown in the enabled position;

[0055] - Figure 4The arm and operating head are shown in the deactivated position;

[0056] - Figure 5 A side view of the operating head is shown;

[0057] - Figure 6 A top view of the arm and operating head is shown;

[0058] - Figure 7 A perspective view of the arm and operating head is shown;

[0059] - Figure 8 A partial view of the arm and operating head is shown;

[0060] - Figure 9 A three-dimensional cross-section of the arm and the operating head is shown;

[0061] - Figure 10 Cross-sections of the arm and operating head are shown;

[0062] - Figure 11 Details of the three-dimensional cross-section of the arm and operating head are shown;

[0063] - Figure 12 Details of the cross-section of the arm and operating head are shown;

[0064] - Figure 13 An exploded view of the arm and operating head assembly is shown.

[0065] - Figure 14 A front perspective view of a device for assembling and removing tires according to another embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The numeral 1 indicates an apparatus according to this disclosure for fitting a tire 2 onto and removing a tire 2 from a corresponding rim 3 of a vehicle wheel 4. The apparatus 1 includes a wheel retainer unit 6 configured to rotate about a first axis A. The first axis A is vertically oriented. The wheel retainer unit 6 is configured to lock the rim 3 of the wheel 4. Furthermore, the wheel retainer unit 6 is configured to rotate about the first axis A such that during the fitting and / or removal steps, the wheel 4 rotates integrally with the wheel retainer unit 6. The apparatus 1 includes a column 8 provided with a vertical guide 10. The column 8 extends in a vertical direction. The apparatus 1 includes a carriage 11 coupled to the vertical guide 10 for vertical sliding along the vertical guide 10. The apparatus 1 includes an arm 15. Preferably, the arm 15 has a first end and a second end. The arm is connected to the carriage 11. Preferably, the first end of the arm is connected to the carriage 11. The apparatus 1 includes an operating head 16 connected to the arm 15. Preferably, the operating head 16 is connected to the second end of the arm 15. The column 8 is configured via the carriage 11 to allow the arm 15 to slide vertically together with the operating head 16. The operating head 16 is configured to rotate about a second axis B. The second axis B is transverse to the first axis A. The second axis B is parallel to the floor. The operating head 16 is provided with a plurality of tools 18. Each tool 18 is operably inserted in the working position between the bead of the tire 2 and the annular edge of the rim 3.

[0067] In one example, the plurality of tools 18 includes a removal tool 181. The removal tool 181 includes a body extending along a primary direction. The primary direction is radial relative to the second axis B. The removal tool 181 has a first end near the second axis B and a second end away from the second axis B. At its second end, the removal tool 181 includes a hook. This configuration allows the removal tool 181 to be operably inserted between the tire bead of the tire 2 and the annular edge of the rim 3 when the removal tool 181 is in the operating working position. In one example, the plurality of tools 18 includes a tire-removing tool 182. The tire-removing tool 182 includes a rotating disc. The rotating disc is rotatable relative to the body of the tire-removing tool 182. In one example, the plurality of tools 18 includes an assembly tool 183 configured to facilitate the assembly of the tire 2 onto the rim 3. In one example, the assembly tool 183 includes a member 1831. Preferably, the assembly tool 183 further includes an additional member 1832. The member 1831 may include a lever extending radially relative to the second axis B. Preferably, when the assembly tool 183 is in the working position, the component 1831 is oriented substantially vertically. Preferably, the additional component 1832 includes a rotating body rotatably coupled to its own support arm. When the assembly tool 183 is in the working position, the rotating body is positioned on the sidewall of the tire and guides the tire 2 during the rotation of the rim 3 on the wheel retainer unit 6.

[0068] Therefore, preferably, at least a portion of each of the plurality of tools 18 is operably inserted in the working position between the bead of the tire 2 and the annular edge of the rim 3.

[0069] The tool 18 can be alternately selected by rotating the operating head 16 about the second axis B in the corresponding operating configuration. In the corresponding operating configuration, the tool 18 is oriented in the working position. In one example, the tool 18 is oriented towards the wheel 4. The operating head 16 can be manually rotated by the user. The operating head 16 is provided with at least one locking tooth 160. Preferably, the operating head 16 is provided with three locking teeth 160, which are alternately positioned at an angle of 120° about the second axis B relative to the position of the tool 18. The locking teeth 160 are configured to be manually moved to a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking teeth 160 are connected to a spring 161. In particular, each locking tooth 160 is connected to a corresponding spring 161. In the locked position, the locking teeth 160 secure the operating head 16 to the arm 15 (preventing rotation). In the locked position, the spring 161 is unloaded. In the unlocked position, the operating head 16 is secured to the arm 15 such that it can rotate freely about the second axis B. In the unlocked position, the spring 161 is compressed. Therefore, to select a different tool 18, the user must first bring the locking tooth 160 to the unlocked position and then rotate the operating head 16 until the selected tool is oriented toward the wheel 4. Each spring 161 is connected to a corresponding pin 162. The arm 15 may include a receiving portion 163. The pin 162 is configured to be removably inserted into the receiving portion 163. Preferably, when the tool is in the working position, the receiving portion is positioned opposite the tool relative to the second axis B. It should be noted that the pin 162 prevents rotation when it is inserted into the receiving portion 163 of the arm 15. The pin 162 inserted into the receiving portion 163 is the pin corresponding to the selected tool. The expression "corresponds to the selected tool" is used to refer to the pin (as well as the spring and tooth) opposite the tool relative to the second axis B. To change from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration, the user can operate the locking tooth 160 by opening it away from the second axis B. When the user opens the locking tooth 160, the spring 161 is compressed, thus causing the pin 162 to slide out of the receiving portion 163. In this way, pin 162 no longer interferes with arm 15, and operating head 16 can rotate freely relative to arm 15.

[0070] The device 1 includes a frame 5. The frame 5 supports a wheel retainer unit 6. In one example, an arm 15 is movably connected to a carriage 11 such that it can move between an active position and a deactivated position. In the active position, the arm 15 is oriented toward a first axis A, and in the deactivated position, the arm 15 is spaced away from the first axis A and from the active position. The arm 15 can be hinged to the carriage 11, thus enabling it to move between the active and deactivated positions by rotation about a third axis C parallel to the first axis A. Therefore, rotational movement of the arm 15 causes it to move in a plane parallel to the floor. The carriage 11 includes a first portion connected to a post 8 and configured to slide in a guide 10 on the post 8. The carriage 11 includes a second portion extending transversely to the post 8, to which the arm 15 is hinged. In one example, the second portion is connected to the first portion such that the first and second portions are perpendicular to each other. The device 1 includes a resilient element 50 connected to the carriage 11 and to the arm 15. The resilient element 50 is configured to force the arm 15 into a deactivated position. Preferably, the resilient element 50 is a torsion spring. The torsion spring may be mounted on a hinge such that it extends along a third axis C. The device 1 includes a locking mechanism 60. The locking mechanism 60 is configured to lock the arm 15 in an activated position and to unlock the arm 15 to allow it to move from the activated position to the deactivated position. When the locking mechanism 60 is unlocked, the force exerted on the arm 15 by the resilient element 50 pushes the arm into the deactivated position. When the locking mechanism 60 is locked, it applies a locking force that overcomes the force exerted by the resilient element 50 and thus locks the arm 15 in the activated position. In one example, the displacement of the arm 15 from the deactivated position to the activated position is performed manually by an operator. In one example, the device includes two locking mechanisms 60. The locking mechanism 60 may include a locking member 61. The locking member 61 is movable between a locked position and a released position. The locking mechanism 60 may also include an actuating member 62. The actuating member 62 is connected to the locking member 61 and allows the user to manually lock and unlock the arm 15. The actuating member 62 may include a handle 64. The locking member 61 may include a lever 63. The lever 63 is hinged to the arm 15. The lever 63 has a first end connected to the locking member 61 and a second end connected to the actuating member 62. Thus, by rotating the lever 63 about the hinge and hooking the locking member 61 onto the carriage 11, the actuating member 62 is operated, and the arm 15 is manually locked to and unlocked from the carriage 11. The carriage 11 may include a cavity 110. The cavity 110 is configured to receive the locking member 61 in a locking configuration. The locking member 61 may consist of a hook. Thus, the hook is configured to be removably inserted into the cavity 110 to lock the arm 15 in the enabled position.

[0071] In an example embodiment, the operating head 16 is removably connected to the arm 15. The operating head 16 may include a connecting shaft 17. The connecting shaft 17 can be removably inserted into an opening formed in the arm 15. The device 1 may also include a fastening pin 20, which can be removably inserted into a through-hole 152 in the arm 15 to engage the arm 15 and the connecting shaft 17. Thus, when the fastening pin 20 is inserted into the through-hole 152, the fastening pin 20 prevents the connecting shaft 17 from translating and rotating relative to the arm 15. Therefore, when the fastening pin 20 is inserted into the through-hole 152, the operating head 16 is constrained to remain fixed to the arm 15 because the connecting shaft 17 is connected to the operating head 16.

[0072] In the example embodiment, the wheel retainer unit 6 protrudes upward from the frame 5. The frame 5 has a working side facing the work area. The work area is a space that can be occupied by the user. The column 8 has a working side facing the work area. The vertical guide 10 is positioned on the working side of the column 8. The device 1 also includes a set of pedals 70 positioned on the working side of the frame 5. Therefore, the user can quickly and easily operate on the set of pedals 70 and the operating head 16 without moving from the work area. The frame supports the column 8 and is provided with a horizontal guide 80. The column 8 is slidable in the horizontal guide 80 along a sliding direction. The sliding direction is horizontally oriented. The sliding direction is towards and away from the wheel retainer unit 6. The device may include a control panel 40. The control panel has a front. The front is configured to interact with the user. The front faces the work area. Preferably, the control panel 40 is positioned in the work area. The control panel 40 is configured to control the movement of the carriage 11 along the vertical guide 10. It should be noted that, in one example, the operating head 16 (and therefore the tool 18) may have:

[0073] - Vertical sliding movement, because the operating head 16 is supported by the arm 15, which is connected to the carriage 11, the vertical sliding movement is the movement along the guide 10 of the column 8;

[0074] - Slide horizontally in the direction toward wheel 4 and in the direction away from wheel 4;

[0075] - Turn on / off movement, so that the operation head 16 can be moved to a disabled or enabled position.

[0076] In one example, the apparatus includes an illuminator 100 configured to generate a laser beam 101. The illuminator 100 may be connected to an arm 15. Alternatively, the illuminator 100 may be connected to an operating head 16. The laser beam 101 is directed downwards to illuminate a point on the wheel 4 mounted on the wheel retainer unit 6. After selecting a tool 18 according to the operation to be performed on the wheel 4, the user can use a control panel to move the operating head vertically and / or away from and / or toward the wheel 4. The point on the wheel illuminated by the laser beam 101 serves as a precise indicator for the user, intended to position the tool 18 at the point indicated by the illuminator 100. In one example, the illuminator 100 is connected to a column 8. In another example, the illuminator 100 is connected to a carriage 11. In one example, the illuminator 100 is connected to the carriage 11 or column 8 via another arm. In one example, the other arm extends in a direction parallel to a second axis B. In one example, the other arm is provided with a first end connected to the carriage 11 or column 8 and a second end supporting the illuminator 100. Preferably, the second end is operably positioned vertically above the operating head 16 or above one of its tools. In one example, the illuminator 100 emits light at an angle relative to the vertical direction. In one example, the illuminator 100 is positioned in a plane passing through the first axis A and the second axis B, such that the illuminator 100 can illuminate a point on the tire 2 or rim 3 regardless of the operating position of the tools on the operating head 16. In one example, the illuminator 100 is configured to illuminate the wheel for a predetermined operating time. The predetermined operating time may be the time required for the operator to position the tool on the wheel. During that time, the illuminator 100 is in optical contact with the wheel (i.e., illuminating the wheel with a mark visible to the operator).

[0077] In an example embodiment, arm 15 extends in a lateral direction. This lateral direction may be parallel to the second axis B. An operating head 16 is inserted between the illuminator 100 and arm 15 in the lateral direction. The operating head 16 may also have a through-hole oriented along the second axis B. The illuminator 100 can be connected to arm 15 via a rod 151. The rod 151 is configured to be positioned within the through-hole of the operating head. The operating head 16 is rotatable relative to the rod 151, while the rotation of the illuminator 100 relative to the operating head 16 is stationary. In one example, the radial dimension of the illuminator 100 exceeds the radial dimension of the through-hole of the operating head 16. The illuminator 100 is removably connected to the rod 151. In practice, the illuminator 100 must be removed first to remove the operating head 16. In one example, connecting shaft 17 has a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the arm. The second end is rotatably connected to the operating head 16. The rod 151 is fixed to the second end of connecting shaft 17. In an example embodiment, the connecting shaft is provided with a seat 171. Seat 171 is radially oriented relative to the second axis B. Arm 15 includes a through hole 152. The through hole 152 is radially oriented relative to the second axis B. Connecting shaft 17 is removably connected to arm 15. In one example, connecting shaft 17 is removably connected to arm 15 at a predetermined angular position such that the through hole 152 of the arm is aligned with seat 171 of connecting shaft 17. Preferably, seat 171 is a recess with radial depth extending around the entire circumference of connecting shaft 17. In one example, fastening pin 20 is slidably coupled to arm 15. Fastening pin 20 is removably inserted into seat 171 of connecting shaft 17 to lock and unlock connecting shaft 17 relative to arm 15. In an example embodiment, illuminator 100 is coaxial with the second axis B and connected to operating head. Preferably, illuminator 100 is pivotally connected to operating head 16 so that it can rotate relative to operating head 16. Alternatively, illuminator 100 is removably connected to operating head 16. In this example, operating head 16 includes a seat. The illuminator 100 can be connected to the seat of the operating head 16 at multiple angular positions. These angular positions are configured such that, regardless of the angular position of the operating head 16 relative to the second axis B, the illuminator 100 delivers a laser beam 101 that is always pointed downwards to illuminate a point on the wheel 4. In a preferred exemplary embodiment, the laser beam 101 is vertically oriented.

[0078] In one example, the illuminator includes a button. The button is configured to activate the emission of the laser beam 101. Preferably, the laser beam 101 remains active for a predetermined duration. The device 1 also includes a control unit. The control unit is connected to the illuminator 100 to set a timing signal such that the laser beam 101 remains active for the predetermined duration. At the end of the predetermined duration, the laser beam 101 is deactivated.

[0079] In one example, the illuminator 100 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The cylindrical shape of the illuminator 100 extends primarily along the second axis B. A button is located on the side surface of the illuminator. Alternatively, the button is located on the front surface of the illuminator 100, i.e., at the front end of the illuminator 100. It should be noted that the body of the illuminator 100 can have different geometries. In one example, at least a portion of the side surface of the illuminator 100 is flat. The button is mounted on the flat portion of the illuminator 100. Preferably, the flat portion is located in the upper region of the illuminator 100 relative to the vertical direction. In one example, the laser beam 101 is orthogonal to the side surface of the illuminator 100. Preferably, the laser beam 101 is orthogonal to the flat portion of the illuminator 100. In one example, the laser beam 101 is radially oriented relative to the cylindrical extension of the illuminator 100. In one example, the button is spaced apart from the exit point of the laser beam 101 from the illuminator 100. Preferably, the button and the exit point of the laser beam 101 are diametrically opposite each other. In one example, the illuminator 100 is battery powered. Preferably, the battery is a "button cell battery". When the illuminator is battery powered, the body of the illuminator is provided with a specific opening to facilitate battery replacement.

[0080] In another example embodiment, the operating head 16 is removably connected to the arm 15. Therefore, the operating head 16 can be replaced with another similar operating head or with other tools suitable for working on specific types of wheels or tires. The device 1 may include one or more actuators. One or more actuators are configured to move the carriage 11 along the vertical guide 10. The actuators may also be configured to move the column 8 along the horizontal guide 80. The actuators may be hydraulic or electric actuators. A control unit is connected to the actuators and configured to set a first sliding speed or a second sliding speed. The second sliding speed is preferably twice the first sliding speed. The transition from the first sliding speed to the second sliding speed can be automatic; for example, it can be time-switched. The control panel 40 includes one or more control elements connected to the control unit. The control elements transmit commands to the control unit for controlling the actuators and selecting the first or second sliding speed. Dual-speed control can be applied to the vertical sliding movement of the carriage 11 along the guide 10 and the sliding movement of the column 8 toward and away from the wheel 4. In another example, the control unit can be configured to set a predetermined stroke for the carriage 11. The control elements of the control panel 40 are interactive with the user to transmit commands to the actuator for moving the carriage 11 by the predetermined stroke. Similarly, the predetermined stroke could be a vertical movement of the carriage 11 along the guide 10. Alternatively, the predetermined stroke could be a movement of the column 8 toward / away from the horizontal guide 80.

[0081] It should be noted that the features of the illuminator 100 and laser beam 101 described herein can be associated with both the embodiment in which the illuminator 100 is connected to the arm 15 and the embodiment in which the illuminator 100 is connected to the operating head 16.

[0082] In one example, device 1 includes another post 90. The other post 90 is separate from post 8. Device 1 includes a bead pressing tool 19. The bead pressing tool 19 is operatively in contact with tire 2. The bead pressing tool 19 applies force to tire 2, causing the bead pressing tool 19 and wheel 4 to rotate as a unit. The force exchanged between the bead pressing tool 19 and tire 2 has a direction parallel to axis A. The bead pressing tool 19 is movably connected to the other post 90. Preferably, the bead pressing tool 19 extends in a vertical direction. Device 1 includes a sensor system configured to detect the position of tool 18 positioned in the operating configuration. The sensor system is connected to a control unit. The sensor system may include an encoder capable of generating signals based on the rotation angle of the operating head. Alternatively, the sensor system may consist of a camera, a magnetic sensor, or any other sensor capable of detecting a relevant angular position. In one example, the sensor system consists of two magnets and two Hall effect sensors. The Hall effect sensors may be angularly spaced 120° apart. When the tool is positioned in the predetermined operating position, both magnets face the Hall effect sensor. In operating positions other than the predetermined operating position, only one of the two magnets faces the sensor. Therefore, this scheme allows for the identification of three operating positions for three tools. Furthermore, in the intermediate positions, i.e., those where no tool is positioned, no magnet faces the sensor. Thus, the control unit detects a "no tool positioning" condition. It should be noted that this scheme allows for providing feedback to the user, which can be, for example, visual and / or auditory. Furthermore, identifying the tool's position can also be used to increase machine safety, thereby preventing potentially dangerous tool movement in certain situations.

[0083] In one embodiment, the operating head 16 can be detached from the arm 15, and the device 1 includes a sensor system. In this or other embodiments, the connection between the operating head 16 and the arm 15 ensures connection at specific angular positions. This is necessary to avoid loss of calibration of the sensor system when it has an absolute reference.

Claims

1. An apparatus for mounting and removing a tire on a corresponding rim of a vehicle wheel, comprising: - Wheel retainer unit, which rotates about a vertically oriented first axis; - A column with vertical guides; - A carriage, which is connected to the vertical guide for vertical sliding; - An arm that is connected to the carriage; - An operating head, pivotally connected to the arm, for rotation about a second axis transverse to the first axis, and equipped with a plurality of tools, each operably inserted in a working position between the tire bead and the annular edge of the rim. The tools can be alternately selected by rotating the operating head in a corresponding operating configuration where the tools are positioned in the working position. The arm is characterized in that it is movably connected to the carriage such that it can move between an enabled position and a disabled position, wherein in the enabled position the arm is oriented toward the first axis and in the disabled position it is spaced apart from the enabled position away from the first axis.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The arm is hinged to the carriage, such that the arm moves between the enabled position and the disabled position by rotational movement about a third axis parallel to the first axis.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, It includes an elastic element connected to the carriage and configured to force the arm into the deactivated position.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic element is a torsion spring.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes at least one locking mechanism configured to lock the arm in the enabled position and to unlock the arm to allow the arm to move from the enabled position to the deactivated position.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The locking mechanism includes: - A locking component that can move between a locked position and a released position; - An actuating component, which is connected to the locking component to allow the user to manually lock and unlock the arm.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The locking mechanism includes a lever hinged to the arm, the lever having a first end and a second end, a locking member connected to the first end, and an operating member including a handle connected to the second end.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 7, characterized in that: - The carriage includes a cavity. - The locking member includes a hook configured to be removably inserted into the cavity such that the arm is locked in the enabled position.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operating head is removably attached to the arm.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The operating head includes a connecting shaft that can be removably inserted into an opening provided on the arm, and the device includes a fastening pin that can be removably inserted into a through hole to engage the arm and the connecting shaft of the operating head for securing the operating head to the arm.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a frame from which the wheel retainer unit protrudes upward, the frame having a working side facing a work area that can be occupied by a user, wherein the upright has a working side facing the work area, wherein the vertical guide is positioned on the working side of the upright, and wherein the device includes a set of pedals coupled to the working side of the frame.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a frame that supports the column and is provided with a horizontal guide, allowing the column to slide toward and away from the wheel retainer unit along a horizontally oriented sliding direction.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a control panel located in the working area and configured to control the movement of the carriage along the vertical guide.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes an illuminator configured to generate a laser beam, the illuminator being connected to the arm or to the operating head and vertically oriented in a downward direction for illuminating a point of the wheel mounted on the wheel retainer unit.

15. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes another post separate from the first post, and a bead pressing tool connected to the other post and adapted to rotate integrally with the wheel while applying a force parallel to the first axis on the tire.

16. A method for fitting and removing a tire from a corresponding rim of a vehicle wheel, comprising the steps of: - Provides a wheel retainer unit capable of rotating about a vertically oriented first axis; - Lock the wheel onto the wheel retainer unit; - Provides a column with a vertical guide, a carriage slidably connected to the column, and an arm connected to the carriage; - Provides an operating head connected to the arm, the operating head being rotatable about a second axis transverse to the first axis, the operating head including a plurality of tools; - Select one of the plurality of tools by rotating the operating head about the second axis; - By vertically moving the arm, the selected tool is inserted into the working position between the tire bead and the annular edge of the rim; - The tire is fitted onto the rim or removed from the rim by rotating the wheel retainer unit about the first axis. The method is characterized by further comprising the step of moving the arm between an enabled position and a disabled position, wherein in the enabled position the arm is oriented toward the first axis, and the disabled position is spaced apart from the enabled position away from the first axis.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The arm extends from a first end to a second end along the second axis, the operating head is connected to the arm at the second end, and wherein the arm is hinged to the carriage at the first end to move relative to the carriage between the enabled position and the disabled position by rotating about a third axis parallel to the first axis.

18. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, It also includes the following steps: - Provide an illuminator that is connected to the operating head or to the arm and is capable of generating a laser beam; - Using the laser beam as a reference on the wheel, the selected tool is positioned at the working position.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The illuminator is removably attached to the arm, allowing the operating head to be rotated to select the tool without rotating the illuminator.

20. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, It includes pre-positioning one of the plurality of tools by performing the following steps: - Hold the operating head in a high, upward position relative to the vertical extension of the vertical guide and the column; - Using the laser beam as a vertical reference, move the tool horizontally toward or away from the first axis; - The tool is lowered vertically along the vertical guide toward the wheel mounted on the wheel retainer unit.

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