Non-contact method to measure the radial runout of a HUB, rim, or pressurized tire casing

Abstract

Systems and methods to perform non-contact radial runout measurement are provided. A system includes a data processing system and a distance sensor distally positioned along a radial axis from an item mounted via an axial axis to a mounting structure. The sensor is configured to generate distance data indicative of distances to a surface of the item during a rotation along a rotation axis and to transmit the distance data to the data processing system. The data processing system can receive the distance data indicative of distances, parallel to the radial axis; obtain, in response to receiving the distance data, a minimum distance and a maximum distance of the plurality of distances; generate a radial runout of the item based on a difference between the minimum distance and the maximum distance; and provide, via an interface, an indication of the radial runout of the item.

Description

Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)NON-CONTACT METHOD TO MEASURE THE RADIAL RUNOUT OF A HUB, RIM, OR PRESSURIZED TIRE CASINGCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 703,267, filed on October 4, 2024, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for measuring radial runout, and more particularly to a non-contact method to measure the radial runout of a hub, rim, or pressurized tire casing.BACKGROUND

[0003] Tires may undergo a retreading process for tread replacement or repair. During certain procedures or stages of the retreading process, tires may become or be found to be out- of-tolerance (outside of tolerance, not within tolerance). A determination may be made to assess whether or not the tires are within tolerance in connection with the retreading process.SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure describes systems and methods for non-contact measurement of the radial runout of an item (e.g., a hub, a rim, or a pressurized tire casing). The systems and methods can perform a non-contact measurement to determine radial runout before, during, or after a retreading process. For example, the systems and methods can include a distance sensor, a mounting structure, and a data processing system. The mounting structure can be configured to mount an item for radial runout generation, determination, or measurement. The mounting structure can be a part of a machine, a device, or a component configured to perform an operation (e.g., retreading process) on the item. For example, the mounting structure can be a part of a buffer machine, skiving machine, or inspection machine, etc. In some cases, the mounting structure can be an independent component or structure. The item can be mounted to the mounting structure about an axial axis of the item and a rotation axis of the mounting structure. The distance sensor, which may be distally positioned along a radial axis from the item, can capture distance data indicative of distances between the distance sensor and the item.14914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)The item can be rotated along a rotation axis during the generation of the distance data (i.e., while the distance data is generated). The data processing system can obtain the distance data from the distance sensor.

[0005] Based on the distance data, the data processing system can determine the maximum distance and the minimum distance to the item. The data processing system can compute a difference between the maximum distance and the minimum distance to generate the radial runout of the item. The data processing system can compare the radial runout to a threshold (e.g., tolerance level). In response to the comparison, the data processing system can trigger an alert, for instance, if the radial runout of the item is out-of-tolerance, e.g., exceeds the tolerance level. The alert may indicate that the item should be adjusted, repaired, or removed from the retreading process, for example. Hence, the systems and methods disclosed herein can provide various features and allow for operations for non-contact (contactless) measurement or determination of a radial runout. Such techniques can reduce the number of out-of-tolerance items, enhance quality control, improve anomaly detection, and minimize resource consumption by avoiding further retreading processes (e.g., removing the item from the retreading process) upon detection of the items falling outside the specified tolerance (or specification), and in turn, can improve efficiency and sustainability.

[0006] At least one aspect is directed to systems for non-contact radial runout measurement. In particular, systems are provided which allow for a determination to be made of radial runout, such as may be used to determine whether an item is in tolerance or out-of- tolerance. The systems can include a distance sensor and a data processing system. The distance sensor can be distally positioned along a radial axis from a mounting structure configured to receive an item. The distance sensor can be configured to (i) generate distance data indicative of a plurality of distances from the distance sensor to a surface of the item along the radial axis during rotation of the item about a rotation axis of the mounting structure, and (ii) transmit the generated distance data to a data processing system, wherein the radial axis is perpendicular to the rotation axis. The data processing system can include one or more processors and a memory. The data processing system can receive the distance data indicative of the plurality of distances to at least one surface of the item during the rotation of the item about the rotation axis. The data processing system can obtain, in response to receiving the distance data, a minimum distance of the plurality of distances and a maximum distance of the plurality of distances. The data processing system can generate a radial runout of the item24914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) based on a difference between the minimum distance and the maximum distance. The data processing system can provide, via an interface, an indication of the radial runout of the item in response to the generation of the radial runout.

[0007] The distance sensor can traverse along the radial axis (e.g., where the travel is dependent at least in part on a size of the item) to adjust a distance between the distance sensor and the mounting structure. The distance data can be associated with one or more degrees of rotation of the item, the minimum distance can be associated with a first degree of the degrees of rotation, and the maximum distance can be associated with a second degree of the degrees of rotation.

[0008] In some cases, in response to receiving the distance data, the data processing system can generate a profile of the item according to the plurality of distances to at least one surface of the item during the rotation. The profile can include an indication of at least one of the minimum distance, the maximum distance, the radial runout, and the degrees of rotation associated with the distance data. The data processing system can display, via the interface, the profile of the item including an indication of a portion of the item corresponding to the first degree and a portion of the item corresponding to the second degree for determining radial runout of the item.

[0009] A measurement direction of the distance sensor can be coincident with the radial axis. The distance sensor can include at least one of a digital laser, an analog laser, a camera, a radar, a sonar, or an ultrasonic sensor. The distance sensor can be coupled to at least one isolator or damper (dampener) to reduce vibration of the distance sensor.

[0010] The item can be a portion of a wheel assembly, comprising at least one of a rim, a hub, or a casing of a tire. The system can include a motor coupled to the mounting structure, configured to generate torque to rotate the item while the distance data is generated by the distance sensor. The mounting structure can be provided on at least one of a buffer, an extruder, a builder, or a balancer.

[0011] In response to receiving the radial runout, the data processing system can compare the radial runout to a predetermined threshold. The data processing system can display, via the interface, an indication of an anomaly in response to determining that the radial runout is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold.34914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)

[0012] In some cases, the mounting structure can be a first mounting structure. In response to determining that the radial runout is less than the predetermined threshold, the data processing system can display, via the interface, an indication to transfer the item from the first mounting structure to a second mounting structure.

[0013] At least one aspect is directed to a data processing system. The data processing system can include one or more processors and a memory. The data processing system can receive, from a distance sensor, distance data indicative of a plurality of distances from the distance sensor to a surface of an item mounted to a mounting structure during a rotation of the item about a rotation axis of the mounting structure, wherein the distance sensor is distally positioned along a radial axis perpendicular to the rotation axis. The data processing system can obtain, in response to receiving the distance data, a minimum distance of the plurality of distances and a maximum distance of the plurality of distances. The data processing system can generate a radial runout value of the item based on a difference between the minimum distance and the maximum distance. The data processing system can cause display of, via an interface of a display device communicatively coupled to the data processing system, an indication of the radial runout of the item in response to the generation of the radial runout value.

[0014] The distance data can be associated with degrees of rotation of the item, the minimum distance can be associated with a first degree of the degrees of rotation, and the maximum distance can be associated with a second degree of the degrees of rotation.

[0015] In response to receiving the distance data, the data processing system can generate a profile of the item according to the plurality of distances to the surface of the item during the rotation, wherein the profile comprises an indication of at least one of the minimum distance, the maximum distance, the radial runout, and the degrees of rotation associated with the distance data. The data processing system can cause display of, via the interface of the display device, the profile of the item including an indication of a portion of the item corresponding to the first degree and a portion of the item corresponding to the second degree for determining radial runout of the item.

[0016] A measurement direction of the distance sensor can be coincident with the radial axis. The distance sensor can include at least one of a digital laser, an analog laser, a camera, a radar, a sonar, or an ultrasonic sensor.44914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)

[0017] At least one aspect is directed to a method. The method can include receiving, by a data processing system comprising one or more processors and a memory, from a distance sensor, distance data indicative of a plurality of distances from the distance sensor to a surface of an item mounted to a mounting structure during a rotation of the item about a rotation axis of the mounting structure, wherein the distance sensor is distally positioned along a radial axis perpendicular to the rotation axis. The method can include obtaining, by the data processing system, in response to receiving the distance data, a minimum distance of the plurality of distances and a maximum distance of the plurality of distances. The method can include generating, by the data processing system, a radial runout of the item based on a difference between the minimum distance and the maximum distance. The method can include causing, by the data processing system, via an interface of a display device communicatively coupled to the data processing system, display of an indication of the radial runout of the item in response to the generation.

[0018] The item can be a portion of a wheel assembly, comprising at least one of a rim, a hub, or a casing of a tire. The mounting structure can be coupled to a motor configured to generate torque to rotate the item while the distance data is generated by the distance sensor.

[0019] The mounting structure can be provided on at least one of a buffer, an extruder, a builder, or a balancer. The method can include comparing, by the data processing system, in response to receiving the radial runout, the radial runout to a predetermined threshold. The method can include causing, by the data processing system, via the interface of the display device, display of an indication of an anomaly in response to the radial runout being greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold.

[0020] These and other aspects and implementations are discussed in detail below. The foregoing information and the following detailed description include illustrative examples of various aspects and implementations and provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed aspects and implementations. The drawings provide illustration and a further understanding of the various aspects and implementations and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. It will be recognized that the54914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) figures are schematic representations for purposes of illustration. The figures are provided for the purpose of illustrating one or more implementations with the explicit understanding that the figures will not be used to limit the scope of the meaning of the claims.

[0022] FIG. l is a block diagram depicting an example system for non-contact radial runout measurement, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 2 depicts an example of a distance sensor distally positioned from an item, in accordance with an embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram depicting an example method for non-contact radial runout measurement, in accordance with an embodiment; and

[0025] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an architecture for a computer system that can be employed to implement elements of the systems and methods described and illustrated herein, including, for example, the systems depicted in FIG. 1, operations or examples depicted in FIG. 2, and the method depicted in FIG. 3.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Following below are more detailed descriptions of various concepts related to, and implementations of, methods, apparatuses, and systems to determine radial runout. The various concepts introduced above and discussed in greater detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular manner of implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes.

[0027] In certain systems, a tire retread process may be susceptible to potential unintended occurrences, for instance, during the buffing process of a tire. For instance, a radial runout on a buffer that becomes out-of-tolerance (e.g., out of specification) may result in an out-of-balance tire casing that can affect the rest or remainder of the tire build and may lead to a decision not to use the casing. In this case, the tire build may be scrapped or reworked, thus impacting resources and incurring additional time.

[0028] The present disclosure describes systems and methods for non-contact measurement of the radial runout of an item (e.g., a tire or portion of a tire). The non-contact measurement system can be provided or installed to trigger a notification or alert to an operator, for instance,64914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) to adjust or repair the buffer according to the radial runout of the item. The item may include, but is not limited to, at least one of hub, rim, or pressurized tire casing. For purposes of providing examples, the item may be referred to as a tire, although it should be noted that other types of items can be utilized herein, not limited to a tire. The radial runout can refer to a deviation of the geometric center of the item (e.g., tire) from an axis of rotation (or axial axis) of the item. The radial runout can represent a measure of the lateral movement of the item (e.g., a surface of the item) as the item rotates, which may be expressed in distance or displacement measurement. The systems and methods discussed herein can be utilized during other processes of the treading process, such as an inspection process to identify an out-of- specification casing prior to the casing going through the retreading process (and later being rejected). As discussed herein, the systems and methods of the present disclosure can be utilized or performed in any stage or step of the retread process to identify radial runout issues with different retread machines or processes, not limited to a buffer machine.

[0029] In various aspects, the systems and methods of the present disclosure can perform a non-contact measurement to determine the radial runout before, during, or after a retreading process. In some cases, the non-contact measurement can be performed during, before, or after other maintenance processes, not limited to the retreading process, such as a manufacturing process or an inspection process of the item before the retreading process. For example, the systems and methods can include at least one distance sensor, at least one mounting structure, and at least one data processing system, etc. The distance sensor can include or correspond to at least one of a digital laser, an analog laser, a camera, a radar, a sonar, or an ultrasonic sensor, among others. The mounting structure can be configured to mount an item for radial runout generation, determination, or measurement. The mounting structure can be a part of a machine, a device, or a component configured to perform an operation (e.g., retreading process) on the item. For example, the mounting structure can be a part of a buffer machine, skiving machine, inspection machine, etc. In some cases, the mounting structure can be an independent component or structure. The item can be mounted to the mounting structure along an axial axis or rotation axis of the item. The mounting structure can be configured to rotate the item about a rotation axis of the mounting structure, which may be coincident with the rotation axis or axial axis of the item. In some implementations, the axial axis of the item is coincident with the rotational axis of the item.74914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)

[0030] The distance sensor can be distally positioned along a radial axis from the item (i.e., positioned a distance away from the item along the radial axis). The distance sensor can be configured to capture distance data indicative of distances (or displacements) between the distance sensor and the item. The item can be rotated about a rotation axis of the mounting structure during the generation of the distance data. The distance sensor can signal or transmit the captured distance data to the data processing system, among other devices, for processing. The data processing system can obtain the distance data from the distance sensor.

[0031] Based on the distance data, the data processing system can determine the maximum distance and the minimum distance to the item. The data processing system can compute a difference between the maximum distance and the minimum distance to generate the radial runout of the item. In some cases, the data processing system may determine a maximum radius and a minimum radius of the item based on the minimum distance and the maximum distance, respectively. In this case, the data processing system can generate the radial runout based on the difference between the maximum radius and the minimum radius. The radial runout can be computed with a given tolerance range (e.g., plus or minus (+ / -) a given value).

[0032] The data processing system can compare the radial runout to a threshold (e.g., tolerance level, deviation threshold, specified specification, criterion, or score). In response to the comparison, the data processing system can trigger a notification or an alert, for instance, if the radial runout of the item is out-of-tolerance, e.g., exceeds or is outside the tolerance level. For instance, the item can be considered out-of-tolerance if the radial runout is greater than or equal to the threshold or tolerance level. The alert (e.g., sometimes referred to as a warning or an indication) may be provided to an operator via an interface of the data processing system (or a device of the operator). In some aspects, the alert can indicate that the item should be adjusted, repaired, or removed from the retreading process or the manufacturing line, for example.

[0033] If the radial runout is within the tolerance level, the data processing system may not provide the alert or trigger a notification indicating that the item is within tolerance. Hence, the systems and methods disclosed herein can provide various features or operations for noncontact (contactless) measurement or determination of a radial runout, for instance, to prevent the release or rollout of out-of-tolerance items, enhance quality control of the items, improve anomaly detection for items, and conserve resource consumption by avoiding further retreading processes (e.g., removing the item from the retreading process) upon detection of the items84914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) falling outside the specified tolerance, thereby improving operational efficiency for item maintenance, inspection, production, or repair.

[0034] FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram depicting an example system for non-contact radial runout measurement. The system 100 can include at least one data processing system 104 and at least one distance sensor 102 connected to a network 101. The data processing system 104 may sometimes be referred to as a computing device or system, a server, a client device, or a controller. The one or more components (e.g., distance sensor 102, data processing system 104, etc.) of the system 100 can be composed of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software components. In some cases, the system 100 may include at least one item 202, at least one mounting structure 204, or at least one machine 206, such as described in conjunction with FIG. 2. The system 100 may include other components, devices, or structures, not limited to those discussed herein.

[0035] The network 101 can include computer networks such as the Internet, local, wide, metro, or other area networks, intranets, satellite networks, other computer networks such as voice or data mobile phone communication networks, and combinations thereof. The components of the system 100 can communicate with each other via the network 101, for example, the data processing system 104 can transmit or receive data to or from the distance sensor 102. The network 101 may be any form of computer network that can relay information between, to, or from one or more components of the system 100. For example, the network 101 can relay information between the data processing system 104, the distance sensor 102, and one or more information sources, such as web servers or external databases, amongst others. In some implementations, the network 101 may include the Internet and / or other types of data networks, such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a cellular network, a satellite network, or other types of data networks. The network 101 may also include any number of computing devices (e.g., computers, servers, routers, network switches, etc.) that are configured to receive and / or transmit data within the network 101. The network 101 may further include any number of hardwired and / or wireless connections. Any or all of the computing devices described herein (e.g., the data processing system 104, etc.) may communicate wirelessly (e.g., via Wi-Fi, cellular, radio, etc.) with a transceiver that is hardwired (e.g., via a fiber optic cable, a CAT5 cable, etc.) to other computing devices in the network 101. Any or all of the computing devices described herein (e.g., the data processing system 104, etc.) may also communicate wirelessly with the computing devices of the network94914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)101 via a proxy device (e.g., a router, network switch, or gateway).

[0036] The distance sensor 102 can be a device or a sensor capable of sensing distances from the distance sensor 102 to an object, an element, or an item 202 (e.g., surface of the item 202). For instance, the distance sensor 102 can include or correspond to at least one of a digital laser, an analog laser, a camera, a radar, a sonar, or an ultrasonic sensor, etc. In some embodiments, the distance sensor 102 utilized for the measurements can be a precision laser, although other devices or sensors can be installed or utilized to perform measurements. The distance sensor 102 can be configured to capture, obtain, or collect information related to one or more distances between the distance sensor 102 and an object (e.g., the item 202). In response to capturing the distance-related information (or sensing the distances), the distance sensor 102 can generate raw (unprocessed) data for processing. In some cases, the distance sensor 102 can send the raw data to the data processing system 104 for processing and generating the distance data. In some other cases, the distance sensor 102 may include at least one processor and at least one memory to process the raw data and generate the distance data. In such cases, the distance sensor 102 can send (e.g., transmit, communicate) the distance data to the data processing system 104.

[0037] FIG. 2 depicts an example illustration 200 of the distance sensor 102 distally positioned from the item 202. The item 202 can be a component configured to be provided with a vehicle (not shown), such as a tire, a wheel assembly, or a part of the wheel assembly, including but not limited to a hub, a rim, or a pressurized casing. The vehicle may be a commercial vehicle (e.g., an off-road vehicle, a truck, etc.) or a personal vehicle. The one or more components shown in FIG. 2 can be a part of the system 100, such as but not limited to the item 202, the mounting structure 204, or the machine 206.

[0038] As shown, the distance sensor 102 can be positioned at a distance from the item 202, e.g., distally positioned along a radial axis 208 perpendicular to a rotation axis 210 of the mounting structure 204. In some cases, the distance sensor 102 can be positioned at a predetermined distance from the center of the item 202 or the center of the mounting structure 204. The center of the item 202 or the center of the mounting structure 204 may be associated with an axial axis or rotational axis of the item 202 or the mounting structure 204.

[0039] The axial axis of the item can extend along the length or central line of the item 202. In the context of a tire, the axial axis can extend along (or run through) the center of the tire104914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) along the length of the tire and may be coincident with or the same as a rotation axis of the item. The rotation axis (and the axial axis) of the item can represent an axis around which the item 202 spins or rotates. When mounted to the mounting structure 204, the axial axis may be coincident with a rotation axis 210 of the mounting structure 204. In various implementations, the radial axis is an axis perpendicular to the rotation axis 210 of the mounting structure 204 (and may be perpendicular to the axial axis of the item 202). For example, in the context of a tire, the radial axis 208 can extend from the center of the tire outward toward the edge (e.g., circumference) or surface (e.g., where tread is applied) of the tire. The radial axis 208 may be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the surface of the item 202 measured by the distance sensor 102.

[0040] The item 202 can be mounted to the mounting structure 204 via or along the axial axis of the item 202 (e.g., with the axial axis of the item 202 coincident with the rotation axis 210 of the mounting structure 204). The mounting structure 204 can include one or more components or structures configured to receive or secure the item 202. The mounting structure 204 can be configured to position or seat the item 202 at a distance relative to the distance sensor 102. For instance, the mounting structure 204 can include or correspond to a structure having, at least in part, a rod, bracket, shaft, or extrusion for mounting the item 202. The mounting structure 204 can have a predetermined diameter or radius similar to or around the inner diameter or inner radius of, for instance, the cavity of the tire. The mounting structure 204 may be adjustable to fit or secure the item 202 for measurement. For example, when the item 202 is a tire or tire casing, the mounting structure 204 may be an expandable hub.Exemplary mounting structures are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0144399 published May 25, 2017, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 709,412 having corresponding international publication WO 2023 / 091844, published May 25, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 835,441, having corresponding international publication WO2023 / 150445, published August 10, 2023, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference, including for the exemplary mounting structures, machines, and components therein.

[0041] The item 202 can be centered on the mounting structure 204 along the axial axis (e.g., with the axial axis of the item 202 coincident with the rotation axis 210 of the mounting structure 204). After mounting the item 202 to the mounting structure 204, the center of the distance sensor 102 can be pointed towards the center of the item 202 (e.g., toward the axial114914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) axis of the item and the rotation axis 210 of the mounting structure 204) along the radial axis 208 for capturing the corresponding distance data. In various configurations, when mounted on the mounting structure 204, the item 202 can be centered with respect to the distance sensor 102 along a vertical axis perpendicular to the axial axis and the radial axis 208. For example, the radial axis 208 may extend in a horizonal direction between the rotation axis 210 of the mounting structure and the distance sensor 102, and the distance sensor 102 may be oriented to measure distance along the radial axis 208 in a horizontal direction. In other embodiments, the distance sensor 102 may be arranged at different angles relative to a vertical axis but may still be configured to measure distance along a radial axis perpendicular to the rotation axis 210. The item 202 can be secured or positioned on other devices or structures, not limited to the mounting structure 204. The mounting structure 204 may include a sensor or a device configured to provide an indication (e.g., text notification, light indicator, haptic feedback, or other audiovisual or physical indicators) that the item 202 is correctly positioned on the mounting structure 204.

[0042] The distance sensor 102 may include a measurement direction along which the distance sensor measures the distance. If the distance sensor 102 is a laser sensor, for example, the measurement direction may be the direction that the laser is emitted from the distance sensor 102. The measurement direction may be coincident with the radial axis 208 and thus perpendicular to the rotation axis 210 of the mounting structure 204. The measurement direction may be perpendicular to the surface of the item 202 that is detected by the distance sensor 102.

[0043] The mounting structure 204 can be coupled to a motor 212, a gear, or a crank configured to generate torque or provide rotational force to rotate the item 202. More generally, the mounting structure 204 is configured to be coupled to a device that can be actuated to initiate movement of the item 202. For example, the mounting structure 204 can be mechanically coupled to a motor 212 to rotate the item 202. The motor 212 may be controlled by the data processing system 104, a controller, or other authorized devices in electrical communication with the motor, for example. The motor 212 can apply torque to the mounting structure 204 to rotate the item 202 during the generation of distance data by the distance sensor 102. For example, in response to mounting the item 202 on the mounting structure 204, the data processing system 104 (or other controllers) can send a command to control the motor 212 for rotating the item 202. In another example, the sensor of the mounting structure 204124914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) may send a signal, indicative of the item 202 being positioned correctly, to the data processing system 104. The data processing system 104 can receive and respond to the signal with the command to initiate the rotation. In some cases, the motor 212 can be operated by an operator, e.g., manually triggering the rotation or sending a command to the motor 212.

[0044] In some implementations, the mounting structure 204 can be a part of a machine 206, such as a mount for mounting the item 202 for the machine 206. For example, one or more machines can be utilized to complete the retreading processes. The one or more machines can include at least one of but not limited to a buffer machine, an extruder machine, a builder machine, or a balancer machine. For instance, the buffer machine can be configured to remove tread from the item 202 (e.g., the tire) in preparation for the retreading process. The extruder machine can be configured to apply tread material onto the buffed tire casing. The builder machine can be configured to apply at least one additional layer to the tire, such as tread, sidewalls, etc. The balancer machine can be configured to confirm the balance of the retreaded tire to prevent vibration or uneven wear, for example. In some embodiments, the radial runout of the item 202 can be measured or determined during the buffing stage (e.g., at the buffer machine) of the retreading process, although it should be noted that the radial runout determination can be performed in other processes or at other stages of or on different machines for the retreading process.

[0045] In some implementations, the mounting structure 204 can be an independent component not coupled to the machine 206. For example, the mounting structure 204 can be a standalone component not specific to the retreading process. In some aspects, the distance sensor 102 can be a part of the machine 206. In some other aspects, the distance sensor 102 may be an independent component separate from or not coupled to the machine 206. The distance sensor 102 can be coupled to or mounted on an isolated structure (e.g., isolator) or a dampening component 214 (e.g., damper, dampener) to reduce, minimize, or mitigate or dampen vibration of the distance sensor 102. In some cases, the distance sensor 102 can be configured or manufactured to measure distances at a predefined range. Depending on the compatible measurement range, the position of the distance sensor 102 can be adjusted with respect to the position of the item 202 for suitable positioning for measurement. In yet another aspect, the distance sensor 102 can be a part of the data processing system 104, e.g., electrically or communicatively coupled to the data processing system 104.134914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)

[0046] Referring back to FIG. 1, the system 100 can include the data processing system 104. The data processing system 104 can determine or generate a radial runout of the item 202 based on the distance data from the distance sensor 102. The data processing system 104 can include hardware or a combination of hardware and software, such as communications buses, circuitry, processors, communications interfaces, among others. The data processing system 104 can reside on or within a computer or a cloud (e.g., remote device or system). For example, the data processing system 104 can be remote from the distance sensor 102 or the item 202. In another example, the data processing system 104 can operate as a server or a cloud computing device. In some embodiments, the data processing system 104 may be local to the distance sensor 102 and the item 202. In some aspects, the data processing system 104 can be a device of an operator, e.g., configured to display or provide a notification regarding the radial runout of the item 202.

[0047] The data processing system 104 can connect to a different server or remote computing device via the network 101. The data processing system 104 can delegate processing or storage tasks to the server or the remote computing device. For example, the data processing system 104 can transmit (e.g., forward) data to the server for processing or storing the data in a remote data repository. The data processing system 104 can receive processed data from the server. The data processing system 104 can access or retrieve data stored in the remote data repository. In this example, the server may include one or more components or features similar to the data processing system 104 to process the data.

[0048] The data processing system 104 can include at least an interface 106, a data collector 108, a radial runout generator 110, a notification manager 112, and a data repository 114. The data processing system 104 may sometimes be referred to as or correspond to a controller, a computing device, or an electronic device configured to process an input and generate an output. The data processing system 104 can utilize these components to perform non-contact radial runout measurements. The data processing system 104 can utilize the components to trigger a notification for an operator. The components can be in electrical communication to transmit, receive, or retrieve information to or from other components within the data processing system 104. The data processing system 104 can update or configure the data repository 114. The data repository 114 can include one or more data storage units or modules. The data repository 114 can include, store, or maintain various information or data discussed herein.144914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)

[0049] The data processing system 104 can include an interface 106. The interface 106 can be designed, configured, constructed, or operational to receive and transmit information. The interface 106 can receive and transmit information using one or more protocols, such as a network protocol. The interface 106 can include a hardware interface, software interface, wired interface, or wireless interface. The interface 106 can facilitate translating or formatting data from one format to another format. For example, the interface 106 can include an application programming interface that includes definitions for communicating between various components, such as software components. The interface 106 can be designed, constructed, or operational to communicate with the distance sensor 102 to collect or receive information / data. The interface 106 can be designed, constructed, or operational to communicate with other components in the network 101, such as to provide notifications to a display device of an operator device. The interface 106 can interconnect components of the data processing system 104.

[0050] The interface 106 can receive sensor data from at least the distance sensor 102. The interface 106 can retrieve the distance data (or sensor data) from the sensor data storage 116. The interface 106 can retrieve other data from the one or more storage units of the data repository 114. The interface 106 can relay received or retrieved information to other components within the data processing system 104. For example, the interface 106 can provide the distance data to the radial runout generator 110. In some cases, the interface 106 may receive raw data from the distance sensor 102. The interface 106 can transmit the raw data for processing to the data collector 108.

[0051] In some aspects, the interface 106 can include or correspond to a display device (e.g., display 435) or an interface configured to provide information (e.g., notification) to the operator. For example, the interface 106 can receive a notification from the notification manager 112 or from the data repository 114. The interface 106 can provide or display the notification to the operator as audiovisual feedback (e.g., via a graphical user interface (GUI)), haptic feedback, audio feedback, or a combination thereof, etc.). An example of the visual feedback can include, displaying one or more graphical elements to the operator via the GUI, such as text (e.g., a message indicating whether the item 202 is out-of-tolerance), values (e.g., of the radial runout), a pop-up (dialog) window, etc. In some cases, the graphical elements may include interactive elements, such as buttons, sliders, drag-and-drop, or other features. The interface 106 can receive an indication of interaction from the user associated with a least154914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) one of the interactive elements configured to trigger a function, such as closing a dialog window, confirming that the measured item 202 is out-of-tolerance or within the tolerance level, to initiate measurement, cancel measurement, to trigger a rotation of the item 202 for the measurement, etc. An example of the audio feedback can include an audio assistant feature informing whether the item 202 is within the tolerance level or other sound indication. An example of the haptic feedback can include vibration, pulsing, tapping, etc.

[0052] The data processing system 104 can include the data collector 108 configured to obtain, collect, or otherwise generate data / information for measuring the radial runout of the item 202. In some configurations, the data collector 108 can receive data from the interface 106. For example, the data collector 108 may receive distance data from the distance sensor 102 via the interface 106. The distance data can include or be indicative of distances between the distance sensor 102 and the item 202 (e.g., the surface or edge of the item 202). The distance data can include distances measured during the rotation (about the rotation axis) of the item 202. The distance data can include distances associated with degrees of rotation of the item 202 (e.g., 360 data points of distances corresponding to 360 degrees of rotation). The distance data can include more or fewer data points recorded by the distance sensor 102.

[0053] In some cases, the data collector 108 may filter or extract data points from the total data points obtained from the distance sensor 102. For instance, the data collector 108 can extract 360 data points from a set of more than 360 data points recorded during the rotation of the item 202 (or filter other data points from the 360 data points). The data collector 108 can record the degree of rotation corresponding to each data point (e.g., distance measured). The degree of rotation can be based on the rotation of the mounting structure 204. In some embodiments, the mounting structure 204 can include or be coupled to a tilt sensor or an angle sensor to output or generate a degree at which the item 202 is rotated. The data collector 108 can obtain the sensed degree of rotation from the sensor coupled to the mounting structure 204, for example.

[0054] In some cases, the data collector 108 may receive raw data from the interface 106 (received from the distance sensor 102). The data collector 108 may convert the raw data into a predetermined format, for instance, to generate the distance data. The data collector 108 can convert the raw data using at least one suitable conversion technique depending on the type of measurement tool corresponding to the distance sensor 102, for example. The data collector164914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)108 can store the distance data (or raw data) in the data repository 114. The data collector 108 can retrieve or access the distance data stored in the data repository 114.

[0055] In some configurations, the data collector 108 can obtain or determine the radius of the item 202, for instance, per degree of rotation. For example, a separation distance between the distance sensor 102 and the midpoint (or center) of the mounting structure 204 (e.g., corresponding to the axis of rotation or the axial axis of the mounting structure 204) can be predefined. The data collector 108 can subtract each distance measurement from the separation distance to calculate a corresponding radius of the item 202 at the various degrees of rotation. The data collector 108 can store the calculated radii of the item 202 in the data repository 114.

[0056] The data processing system 104 can include the radial runout generator 110. The radial runout generator 110 can be configured to generate, determine, or measure the radial runout of the item 202 based on the distance data obtained from the distance sensor 102. For example, the distance data can include a number of distances captured by the distance sensor 102 during at least one full rotation of the item 202. The radial runout generator 110 can determine or identify the maximum distance and the minimum distance obtained between the distance sensor 102 and the item 202. The maximum distance can represent the longest distance (e.g., highest value) between the distance sensor 102 and the item 202 determined based on the distance data. The minimum distance can represent the shortest distance (e.g., lowest value) between the distance sensor 102 and the item 202 determined based on the distance data.

[0057] The radial runout generator 110 can determine or generate the radial runout based on a difference between the maximum distance and the minimum distance by subtracting the two distances. The radial runout may sometimes be referred to as the deviation or difference between the maximum distance and the minimum distance.

[0058] In some configurations, the radial runout generator 110 can generate the radial runout based on the radii of the item 202. For example, the radial runout generator 110 can identify the maximum radius and the minimum radius of the item 202. The radial runout generator 110 can generate the radial runout of the item 202 by subtracting the minimum radius from the maximum radius. The radial runout generator 110 can store the generated radial runout in the data repository 114.174914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)

[0059] In some cases, the radial runout generator 110 can generate a profile (e.g., model or simulation) of the item 202 based on the radius from the data collector 108. For example, the radial runout generator 110 can map the radii to the respective degrees of rotation to generate the profile. The profile can include the computed radial runout. The profile can provide an indication of relatively low or high portions (regions) of the item 202, e.g., to indicate visually which portions may be out of tolerance. The radial runout generator 110 can provide the profile for display via the interface 106 (e.g., GUI). The profile may be optionally color-coded to provide a visual representation of the relatively low or high portions of the item 202.

[0060] The radial runout generator 110 can generate a profile based on the distances captured by the distance sensor 102. In this case, the profile can provide the deviations between the data points. The radial runout generator 110 can store the generated profile in the data repository 114. In various implementations, the profile of the item 202, including the radial runout or the low or high portions (regions), may be used for troubleshooting or repairing the item 202, for instance, during the retreading process, among others.

[0061] The data processing system 104 can include the notification manager 112. The notification manager 112 can manage commands or notifications to one or more devices or components, such as the interface 106 or a display device of the data processing system 104, a display device of an operator device, etc. The notification manager 112 can receive the distance data or radii data from the data collector 108. The notification manager 112 can receive the radial runout or the profile of the item 202 from the radial runout generator 110. The notification manager 112 can retrieve one or more notifications from the data repository 114 based on at least information from the radial runout generator 110, for example.

[0062] In some implementations, the notification manager 112 can generate, select, or provide at least one notification for the operator, e.g., via the interface 106 or by sending the notification data to a remote device (e.g., operator device). For instance, the notification manager 112 can select a type of notification including an indication of the item 202 within the tolerance level or an indication of the item 202 outside of the tolerance level (e.g., out-of- tolerance). The notification manager 112 can select the type of notification based on a comparison of the radial runout to a predetermined threshold (e.g., tolerance threshold or level). The tolerance threshold can be configured by the operator or predefined by an item specification.184914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)

[0063] The notification manager 112 may generate the notification based on the comparison of the radial runout to the tolerance threshold. The generated notification may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the profile (e.g., distances or radii) of the item 202, the radial runout, an indication of whether the radial runout is within the tolerance threshold, a warning to remove the item 202 from processing, an indication to continue the retreading process (e.g., transfer the item 202 from the buffer machine to an extruder machine), etc. For example, the notification manager 112 may determine that the radial runout is within (or below) the tolerance threshold. In this example, the notification manager 112 can notify the operator that the item 202 is within specification and that the item 202 may continue through the retreading process or be transferred to a subsequent machine or from the mounting structure 204 to another mounting structure (e.g., an indication to transfer the item from a first machine to a second machine), for example.

[0064] In another example, the notification manager 112 may determine that the radial runout is at or outside (e.g., above) the tolerance threshold, e.g., indicative of an undesirable attribute, property, or characteristic, such as an anomaly or other atypical aspect. In particular, generating and providing the radial runout and an indication of whether the radial runout is within (inside) or outside a tolerance threshold allows for a determination of the radial runout to be made. A notification can be made when or after the radial runout value is obtained. For example, the notification manager 112 can notify the operator of the out-of-tolerance item (e.g., provide an indication of an anomaly) to take one or more of the following actions: an action to prevent or stop the operation of the machine 206, an action to discontinue the retreading process for the item 202, an action to perform maintenance on the item, etc. The notification manager 112 can provide an indication of the low or high portions (regions) of the item 202, etc. The operator may shut down the machine 206 in response to the notification, thereby potentially reducing further resource consumption. By measuring the radial runout and notifying the operator, the data processing system 104 can allow the item 202 (e.g., wheel or tire) to be repaired or replaced relatively early in the item lifecycle.

[0065] In some implementations, the notification manager 112 can communicate to the machine 206 or the motor 212 of the mounting structure 204. The notification manager 112 may signal the machine 206 or the motor 212 of the mounting structure 204 to stop rotating the item 202 in response to detecting that the difference between the maximum distance and the minimum distance is greater than the tolerance threshold. For example, in response to194914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) initiating the rotation of the item 202 to perform the distance measurement, the data collector 108 can record and update the maximum distance and the minimum distance to the item 202 as the item rotates. The radial runout generator 110 may responsively and repeatedly (or continuously) compute the difference between the maximum and minimum distances. The radial runout generator 110 can perform the computation in response to receiving a new maximum distance or a new minimum distance, for example. For each computation of the difference, the notification manager 112 can compare the difference to the tolerance threshold. In response to detecting that the difference is at or above the tolerance threshold, the notification manager 112 can signal the motor 212 or the machine 206 to terminate the rotation of the item 202 because the item 202 is determined to be out-of-tolerance. Hence, in some examples, the item 202 may not be fully rotated (e.g., 360 degrees) to determine that the item 202 is out-of-tolerance. Other types of notifications or procedures for notifying the operator(s) can be applied, not limited to those described herein.

[0066] In some configurations, the radial runout measurement can be performed in other stages of the retreading process. For example, the data processing system 104 can perform the radial runout determination or provide notification during the buffer stage of the retreading process. The data processing system 104 may perform similar procedures (e.g., radial runout determination or providing notification) during an extrusion stage (e.g., using the extruder machine) or builder stage (e.g., using a builder machine) of the retreading process. For instance, in response to determining that the item 202 is within specification during the buffer stage, e.g., the buffed rubber is on the item 202 smoothly or evenly, the item 202 can be moved to the extruder machine. The data processing system 104 can compute the radial runout during the extruder process (e.g., based on distance data from a distance sensor 102 associated with the extruder machine) to determine whether excessive extrusion is applied to the item 202. If the item 202 is out-of-tolerance based on the radial runout, the data processing system 104 (e.g., notification manager 112) can provide a notification for the operator to fix the item 202 to minimize or save resources. Otherwise, the data processing system 104 can notify the operator to move the item 202 to the builder machine. In this case, the data processing system 104 may perform the radial runout determination to ensure that the item 202 (e.g., the rim or a portion of the item 202) is within specification and provide a notification based on the radial runout.

[0067] The data repository 114 can include at least a sensor data storage 116, a radial runout storage 118, an identifier storage 120, and a notification storage 122. The storage units204914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) can be referred to as data structures. The data repository 114 can be accessed by other components of the data processing system 104, such as to store data to or retrieve data from the data repository 114. The data repository 114 can include other data structures to store any information generated by the components of the data processing system 104 or measured by the sensors 102, for example.

[0068] The sensor data storage 116 can include, store, or maintain sensor data from the distance sensor 102, among other sensors discussed herein. The sensor data storage 116 may include, store, or maintain data derived or converted from the sensor data. For example, the sensor data storage 116 can store the distance data, radius data, degree of rotation associated with the distance data or the radius data, among other data from the data collector 108. The data from the sensor data storage 116 can be accessed by the one or more components of the data processing system 104. In some cases, the data from the sensor data storage 116 can be stored on a cloud storage or a remote data repository.

[0069] The radial runout storage 118 can include, store, or maintain radial runout data generated by the radial runout generator 110, among other data. For example, the radial runout storage 118 can store the radial runout data for a respective item 202, the radial runout data of the item 202 at a particular stage in the maintenance process (e.g., retreading process), a profile of the item 202 according to the deviation between the distances or radii of the item 202, etc. The data from the radial runout storage 118 can be accessed by the one or more components of the data processing system 104. In some cases, the data from the radial runout storage 118 can be stored on a cloud storage or a remote data repository.

[0070] The identifier storage 120 data structure can include, store, or maintain unique identifiers associated with the item 202, among other items. The identifier storage 120 can include the identifier of the distance sensors 102 or other sensors used to collect information for the data processing system 104 to perform the operations discussed herein. The identifier storage 120 may include the identifier of the machine 206 or other machines used for the retreading process.

[0071] The notification storage 122 can include, store, or maintain text, user interface (or GUI), images, audio, commands, or other groups of visual, audio, or haptic presentations for displaying a notification to an operator. The notification can be displayed on a display device of the operator device or via the interface 106 (e.g., the display device of the data processing214914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) system 104, such as a liquid crystal display, a touch screen, etc.). For example, the notification storage 122 can include an indication of whether the item 202 is within tolerance or outside tolerance. The notification storage 122 can include a warning, message, or alert for when the item 202 is out-of-tolerance. The notification storage 122 may include interactive elements, such as a confirmation window to select whether to restart the measurement, a confirmation window to stop the operation of the machine 206, or a confirmation window to terminate the measurement. The notification storage 122 can store other types of notifications or elements, not limited to those discussed herein.

[0072] FIG. 3 depicts a flow diagram depicting an example method for non-contact radial runout measurement, in accordance with an implementation. The method 300 can be performed, for example, by one or more systems, components, or functions depicted in FIGS. 1-2 or 4, including, for example, by a data processing system, server, computing device, sensor, interface, etc. In brief overview, the data processing system can receive distance data at operation 302. At operation 304, the data processing system can obtain a minimum distance and a maximum distance. At operation 306, the data processing system can generate or determine a radial runout. At operation 308, the data processing system can provide an indication of the radial runout. At operation 310, the data processing system can determine whether the radial runout is greater than or equal to a threshold. At operation 312, the data processing system can display an indication of whether a determination of an anomaly has been made. At operation 314, the data processing system can display an indication to transfer an item.

[0073] Still referring to FIG. 3, at operation 302, the data processing system can receive the distance data from a distance sensor. The distance data can be indicative of the plurality of distances to at least one surface of the item during the rotation of the item about a rotation axis of the mounting structure. The distance data can be measured along a radial axis perpendicular to a rotation axis of the mounting structure. For example, a distance sensor can be distally positioned along a radial axis from an item that is mounted to a mounting structure and configured to rotate about the rotation axis of the mounting structure. An axial axis of the item may be coincident with the rotation axis of the mounting structure. The distance sensor can be configured to (i) generate distance data indicative of a plurality of distances from the distance sensor to at least one surface of the item during a rotation, and (ii) send the generated distance data to a data processing system.224914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)

[0074] In some implementations, the distance sensor, distally positioned from the item, can traverse along a radial axis. Traversing the distance sensor along the radial axis can refer to adjusting the position of the distance sensor along the radial axis to be closer to or farther from the item (closer to or farther from the axial axis, the mounting structure, the axis of rotation, etc.). The travel along the radial axis may be based at least in part on a size of the item (e.g., the distance sensor may be moved farther from the axis of rotation to measure a large tire and may be moved closer to the axis of rotation to measure a smaller tire). The distance sensor can be rated or configured to measure the surface of the item at a predefined range, such as between about 1 foot and about 2 feet, between about 10 inches and about 20 inches, etc. The distance sensor can be adjusted such that the surface (e.g., initial surface) of the item is within the rated range of the distance sensor for desired accuracy of the measurement, for example. The distance sensor can be traversed automatically via a motor or actuator or manually by assistance of the operator. In some implementations, the distance sensor may remain in a static position and the mounting structure may be movable along the radial axis.

[0075] In some implementations, the distance sensor may be traversed along the axial direction or parallel to the axis of rotation during the rotation of the item. For example, the surface of the item may have a predefined width, while the distance sensor may be configured to capture a portion of the width during each rotation of the item. In this case, the distance sensor can be moved, adjusted, or traversed along the axial direction to capture other width portions of the item (e.g., in other intervals of rotation or during the rotation of the item). For example, the item may be rotated at least about 360 degrees with the distance sensor measuring the distance to the surface of the item in a first axial position, the distance sensor may be moved to a second axial position, and the item may again be rotated at least about 360 degrees with the distance sensor measuring the distance to the surface of the item. This may be repeated until an entire surface of the item is measured.

[0076] In some implementations, the distance sensor may remain in a static position and the mounting structure may be movable along the axis of rotation. It should be appreciated that because the item being measured has a width along the axial axis, the item may be considered to have multiple (e.g., infinite) radial axes along the width. When the position of the distance sensor relative to the item is adjusted, the distance sensor may be considered to measure the distance to the surface of the item along a second radial axis (third radial axis, etc.). As discussed above, the radial runout (the difference between the maximum and minimum234914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) distances) may responsively and repeatedly (or continuously) be computed. In some implementations, the measurements may be stopped when the radial runout exceeds a threshold, even if the distance from the distance sensor to the item has not been recorded across the entire width of the item.

[0077] In some implementations, the distance data can be associated with degrees of rotation of the item. For example, the data processing system can obtain the distance data including the plurality of distances and the degrees of rotation associated with the respective plurality of distances. In some cases, the distance data may include more or fewer distance data points with respect to the degrees of rotation, such as a distance (data point) measured at each half degree of rotation or a distance measured at every two degrees of rotation.

[0078] The distance sensor may include at least one of a digital laser, an analog laser, a camera, a radar, a sonar, or an ultrasonic sensor, among other types of sensors or devices for capturing distances to the item. In some implementations, the distance sensor can be positioned to be directed towards the rotation axis of the mounting structure and / or aligned with the center of the item (e.g., the axial axis of the item etc.). For example, the distance sensor may include a measurement direction along which the distance sensor measures the distance. If the distance sensor is a laser sensor, for example, the measurement direction may be the direction in which laser energy is emitted from the distance sensor. The measurement direction may be coincident with the radial axis. The distance sensor can optionally be coupled to at least one isolator or damper to reduce vibration of the distance sensor.

[0079] In some implementations, the item can include or correspond to a wheel, a tire, or at least a portion of a wheel, such as at least one of a rim, a hub, or a casing of a tire, etc. The mounting structure may be coupled to a motor configured to generate torque to rotate the item mounted to the mounting structure while the distance data is generated (being captured) by the distance sensor. In some configurations, the mounting structure can be provided on, coupled to, or be a part of at least one of a buffer (machine), an extruder (machine), a builder (machine), or a balancer (machine), among others. For instance, the mounting structure can be a part of one of the machines for processing the item, such as for performing the retreading process.

[0080] At operation 304, in response to receiving the distance data, the data processing system can identify, obtain, or determine a minimum distance of the plurality of distances and a maximum distance of the plurality of distances. The minimum distance can correspond to the244914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) lowest value data point of the distance data for at least one rotation of the item. The maximum distance can correspond to the highest value data point of the distance data for at least one rotation of the item. With the distances being associated with respective degrees of rotation, the data processing system can identify or determine that the minimum distance is associated with a first degree of the degrees of rotation, and the maximum distance is associated with a second degree of the degrees of rotation. In some configurations, at least one of the degrees (or at least one area associated with a degree of rotation) corresponding to the minimum distance or the maximum distance can be provided to the operator via an interface of the data processing system to indicate the low or high portions of the item.

[0081] At operation 306, the data processing system can generate a radial runout of the item based on a difference between the minimum distance and the maximum distance. For example, the data processing system can subtract the minimum distance from the maximum distance to determine or generate the radial runout representing the deviation between the two distances.

[0082] At operation 308, the data processing system can provide an indication, via an interface, of the radial runout of the item in response to the generation of the radial runout. For instance, the data processing system can provide the indication of the radial runout as a graphical user element, a text, a value, or other types of indications. The data processing system can provide an indication of the radial runout with a profile of the item, such as a simulation or image of the item according to the distance data.

[0083] At operation 310, in response to receiving the radial runout, the data processing system can compare the radial runout to a predetermined threshold (e.g., tolerance threshold). The comparison of the radial runout to the tolerance threshold can indicate whether the item is out-of-tolerance (e.g., greater than or equal to the threshold) or within tolerance (e.g., below the threshold). If the radial runout is greater than or equal to the threshold, the data processing system proceeds to operation 312. Otherwise, if the radial runout is less than the threshold, the data processing system proceeds to operation 314.

[0084] At operation 312, the data processing system can display, via the interface, an indication of an anomaly in response to the radial runout being greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold. For example, the interface of the data processing system can be a visual interface (e.g., GUI, dashboard interface, command line interface, etc.), audio interface,254914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) etc. The data processing system can display a pre-configured indication to the operator indicating that the item has one or more undesirable characteristics in response to determining that the radial runout is greater than or equal to the threshold. The data processing system can provide other indications to the operator, such as to stop processing the item, remove the item from the retreading process or an indication to repair or replace the item, etc. The data processing system can provide a graphical representation, e.g., by displaying an identification of high and low portions (regions) of the item, for example.

[0085] At operation 314, the data processing system can display, via the interface, an indication (e.g., an instruction) to transfer the item from a first mounting structure to a second mounting structure in response to the radial runout being less than the predetermined threshold. For example, the data processing system can determine that the item is within tolerance based on the radial runout being less than the predetermined threshold. In this case, the data processing system can determine that the item can proceed to a subsequent stage of the retreading process, or other processes being performed on the item. As an example, the first mounting structure can be associated with a buffer (e.g., a component of a buffer system). In this example, the data processing system can provide an indication to transfer the item from the first mounting structure to a second mounting structure that is associated with an extruder. In further examples, if the first mounting structure is associated with the extruder, the data processing system may provide an indication for the item to be transferred to the second mounting structure associated with a builder, etc.

[0086] In some implementations, the data processing system can generate a profile of the item. For example, in response to receiving the distance data, the data processing system can generate a profile of the item according to the plurality of distances to at least one surface of the item during the rotation. The profile can include but is not limited to an indication of at least one of the minimum distance, the maximum distance, the radial runout, or the degrees of rotation associated with the distance data, etc. In response to generating the profile, the data processing system may display, via the interface, the profile of the item including an indication of at least one portion of the item corresponding to the first degree and the second degree for assessing the item (e.g., providing a determination, diagnosis, or evaluation). The data processing system can provide or present other information via the interface, not limited to the profile of the item.

[0087] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example computing system 400. The computing264914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) system or computing device 400 can include or be used to implement the data processing system 104, or its components such as the data processing system 104. The computing system 400 includes at least one bus 405 or other communication component for communicating information and at least one processor 410 or processing circuit coupled to the bus 405 for processing information. The computing system 400 can also include one or more processors 410 or processing circuits coupled to the bus for processing information. The computing system 400 also includes at least one main memory 415, such as a random access memory (“RAM”) or other dynamic storage devices, coupled to the bus 405 for storing information, and instructions to be executed by the processor 410. The main memory 415 can be or include the memory or storage device. The main memory 415 can also be used for storing various parameter information related to manufacturing equipment, or other information during execution of instructions by the processor 410. For example, a log of radial runout information may be stored in main memory 415. The computing system 400 may further include at least one read only memory (“ROM”) 420 or other static storage device coupled to the bus 405 for storing static information and instructions for the processor 410. A storage device 425, such as a solid state device, magnetic disk, or optical disk, can be coupled to the bus 405 to persistently store information and instructions.

[0088] The computing system 400 may be coupled via the bus 405 to a display 435, such as a liquid crystal display, or active matrix display, for displaying information to a user such as an operator of the manufacturing equipment. An input device 430, such as a keyboard or voice interface, may be coupled to the bus 405 for communicating information and commands to the processor 410. The input device 430 can include a touch screen display 435. The input device 430 can also include a cursor control, such as a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to the processor 410 and for controlling cursor movement on the display 435. The display 435 can be part of the data processing system 104 or other components of FIGS. 1 or 2.

[0089] The processes, systems, and methods described herein can be implemented by the computing system 400 in response to the processor 410 executing an arrangement of instructions contained in main memory 415. Such instructions can be read into main memory 415 from another computer-readable medium, such as the storage device 425. Execution of the arrangement of instructions contained in main memory 415 causes the computing system 400 to perform the illustrative processes described herein. One or more processors in a multi-274914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) processing arrangement may also be employed to execute the instructions contained in main memory 415. Hard-wired circuitry can be used in place of or in combination with software instructions together with the systems and methods described herein. Systems and methods described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0090] Although an example computing system has been described in FIG. 4, the subject matter including the operations described in this specification can be implemented in other types of digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or in combinations thereof.

[0091] The systems described above can provide multiple ones of any or each of those components and these components can be provided on either a standalone system or on multiple instantiation in a distributed system. In addition, the systems and methods described above can be provided as one or more computer-readable programs or executable instructions embodied on or in one or more articles of manufacture. The article of manufacture can be cloud storage, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, a flash memory card, a PROM, a RAM, a ROM, or a magnetic tape. In general, the computer-readable programs can be implemented in any programming language, such as LISP, PERL, C, C++, C#, PROLOG, or in any byte code language such as JAVA. The software programs or executable instructions can be stored on or in one or more articles of manufacture as object code.

[0092] Example and non-limiting module implementation elements include sensors providing any value determined herein, sensors providing any value that is a precursor to a value determined herein, datalink or network hardware including communication chips, oscillating crystals, communication links, cables, twisted pair wiring, coaxial wiring, shielded wiring, transmitters, receivers, or transceivers, logic circuits, hard-wired logic circuits, reconfigurable logic circuits in a particular non-transient state configured according to the module specification, analog control elements (e.g. springs, filters, integrators, adders, dividers, gain elements), or digital control elements.

[0093] Aspects of the subject matter and the operations described in this specification can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents. The subject matter described in this specification can be implemented as one or more computer284914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) programs, e.g., one or more circuits of computer program instructions, encoded on one or more computer storage media for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatuses. Alternatively or in addition, the program instructions can be encoded on an artificially generated propagated signal, e.g., a machine-generated electrical, optical, or electromagnetic signal that is generated to encode information for transmission to a suitable receiver apparatus for execution by a data processing apparatus. A computer storage medium can be, or be included in, a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory array or device, or a combination thereof. A computer storage medium can be a source or destination of computer program instructions encoded in an artificially generated propagated signal. The computer storage medium can also be, or be included in, one or more separate components or media (e.g., multiple CDs, disks, or other storage devices include cloud storage). The operations described in this specification can be implemented as operations performed by a data processing apparatus on data stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices or received from other sources. Any of the operations can be performed by one or more processing devices configured individually or collectively to carry out the noted processes described herein.

[0094] The terms “computing device”, “component” or “data processing apparatus” or the like encompass various apparatuses, devices, and machines for processing data, including by way of example a programmable processor, a computer, a system on a chip, or combinations of the foregoing. The apparatus can include special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). The apparatus can also include, in addition to hardware, code that creates an execution environment for the computer program in question, e.g., code that constitutes processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, a cross-platform runtime environment, a virtual machine, or a combination of one or more of them. The apparatus and execution environment can realize various different computing model infrastructures.

[0095] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform actions by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatuses can also be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). Devices suitable for storing computer program instructions and data can294914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) include non-volatile memory, media and memory devices, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices.

[0096] While operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, such operations are not required to be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, and all illustrated operations are not required to be performed. Actions described herein can be performed in a different order.

[0097] Having now described certain illustrative implementations, it is apparent that the foregoing is illustrative and not limiting, having been presented by way of example. In particular, although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of acts or system elements, those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. Acts, elements, and features discussed in connection with one implementation are not intended to be excluded from a similar role in other implementations or implementations.

[0098] The phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “characterized by,” “characterized in that,” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, equivalents thereof, and additional items, as well as alternate implementations consisting of the items listed thereafter exclusively. In one implementation, the systems and methods described herein consist of one, each combination of more than one, or all of the described elements, acts, or components.

[0099] Any references to implementations or elements or acts of the systems and methods herein referred to in the singular may also embrace implementations including a plurality of these elements, and any references in plural to any implementation or element or act herein may also embrace implementations including only a single element. References in the singular or plural form are not intended to limit this disclosed systems or methods, their components, acts, or elements to single or plural configurations.

[0100] Any implementation disclosed herein may be combined with any other implementation or embodiment, and references to “an implementation,” “some implementations,” “one implementation” or the like are not necessarily mutually exclusive and are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the implementation may be included in at least one implementation or304914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) embodiment. Such terms as used herein are not necessarily all referring to the same implementation. Any implementation may be combined with any other implementation, inclusively or exclusively, in any manner consistent with the aspects and implementations disclosed herein.

[0101] References to “or” may be construed as inclusive so that any terms described using “or” may indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms. For example, a reference to “at least one of ‘A’ and ‘B’” can include only ‘A’, only ‘B’, as well as both ‘A’ and ‘B’. Such references used in conjunction with “comprising” or other open terminology can include additional items.

[0102] As utilized herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms generally mean + / - 5% or + / - 10% of the disclosed values, unless specified otherwise. As utilized herein with respect to structural features (e.g., to describe shape, size, orientation, direction, relative position, etc.), the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are meant to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, for example, the manufacturing or assembly process and are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0103] Where technical features in the drawings or the detailed description are followed by reference signs, the reference signs have been included to increase the intelligibility of the drawings or the detailed description. Accordingly, neither the reference signs nor their absence have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim elements.

[0104] Modifications of described elements and acts such as variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, orientations, processing techniques, etc., can occur without materially departing from the teachings and advantages of the subject matter disclosed herein. For example, elements shown as integrally formed can be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements can be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions can be altered or varied. Other substitutions, modifications,314914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) changes, and omissions can also be made in the design, processing methods, and arrangement of the disclosed elements and operations without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0105] The systems and methods described herein may be embodied in other forms without departing from the characteristics thereof. The scope of the systems and methods described herein is indicated by the appended claims, rather than the foregoing description of exemplary non-limiting embodiments, and changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are embraced therein.324914-9635-9790

Claims

Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01)CLAIMS1. A system for determination of radial runout, comprising: a distance sensor distally positioned along a radial axis from a mounting structure configured to receive an item, the distance sensor configured to (i) generate distance data indicative of a plurality of distances from the distance sensor to a surface of the item along the radial axis during a rotation of the item about a rotation axis of the mounting structure, and (ii) transmit the generated distance data to a data processing system, the radial axis being perpendicular to the rotation axis, the data processing system comprising one or more processors and a memory, configured to: receive the distance data indicative of the plurality of distances to the surface of the item during the rotation of the item about the rotation axis; obtain, in response to receiving the distance data, a minimum distance of the plurality of distances and a maximum distance of the plurality of distances; generate a radial runout of the item based on a difference between the minimum distance and the maximum distance; and provide, via an interface, an indication of the radial runout of the item in response to the generation of the radial runout.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the distance sensor is configured to traverse along the radial axis to adjust a distance between the distance sensor and the mounting structure.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the distance data is associated with a plurality of degrees of rotation of the item, the minimum distance is associated with a first degree of the degrees of rotation, and the maximum distance is associated with a second degree of the degrees of rotation.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the data processing system is configured to, responsive to receiving the distance data: generate a profile of the item according to the plurality of distances to the surface of the item during the rotation, wherein the profile comprises an indication of at least one of the minimum distance, the maximum distance, the radial runout, or the degrees of rotation associated with the distance data; and334914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) display, via the interface, the profile of the item including an indication of a portion of the item corresponding to the first degree and a portion of the item corresponding to the second degree.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein a measurement direction of the distance sensor is coincident with the radial axis, and wherein the distance sensor comprises at least one of a digital laser, an analog laser, a camera, a radar, a sonar, or an ultrasonic sensor.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the distance sensor is coupled to at least one isolator or damper to reduce vibration of the distance sensor.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the item is a portion of a wheel assembly, comprising at least one of a rim, a hub, or a casing of a tire.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a motor coupled to the mounting structure, the motor being configured to generate torque to rotate the item while the distance data is generated by the distance sensor.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the mounting structure is provided on at least one of a buffer, an extruder, a builder, or a balancer.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein in response to receiving the radial runout, the data processing system is configured to: compare the radial runout to a predetermined threshold; and display, via the interface, an indication of an anomaly in response to determining that the radial runout is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the mounting structure is a first mounting structure, and wherein the data processing system is configured to, in response to determining that the radial runout is less than the predetermined threshold, display, via the interface, an indication to transfer the item from the first mounting structure to a second mounting structure.

12. A data processing system, comprising: one or more processors and a memory collectively configured to:344914-9635-9790Aty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) receive, from a distance sensor, distance data indicative of a plurality of distances from the distance sensor to a surface of an item mounted to a mounting structure during a rotation of the item about a rotation axis of the mounting structure, wherein the distance sensor is distally positioned along a radial axis perpendicular to the rotation axis; obtain, in response to receiving the distance data, a minimum distance of the plurality of distances and a maximum distance of the plurality of distances; generate a radial runout of the item based on a difference between the minimum distance and the maximum distance; and cause display of, via an interface of a display device communicatively coupled to the data processing system, an indication of the radial runout of the item in response to the generation.

13. The data processing system of claim 12, wherein the distance data is associated with degrees of rotation of the item, the minimum distance is associated with a first degree of the degrees of rotation, and the maximum distance is associated with a second degree of the degrees of rotation.

14. The data processing system of claim 13, wherein the data processing system is configured to: in response to receiving the distance data, generate a profile of the item according to the plurality of distances to the surface of the item during the rotation, wherein the profile comprises an indication of at least one of the minimum distance, the maximum distance, the radial runout, or the degrees of rotation associated with the distance data; and cause display of, via the interface of the display device, the profile of the item including an indication of a portion of the item corresponding to the first degree and a portion of the item corresponding to the second degree.

15. The data processing system of claim 12, wherein a measurement direction of the distance sensor is coincident with the radial axis, and wherein the distance sensor comprises at least one of a digital laser, an analog laser, a camera, a radar, a sonar, or an ultrasonic sensor.

16. A method for determination of radial runout, the method comprising: receiving, by a data processing system comprising one or more processors and a memory, from a distance sensor, distance data indicative of a plurality of distances from the354914-9635-9790Atty. Dkt. 110905-0320 (P23124WO01) distance sensor to a surface of an item mounted to a mounting structure during a rotation of the item about a rotation axis of the mounting structure, the distance sensor being distally positioned along a radial axis perpendicular to the rotation axis; obtaining, by the data processing system, in response to receiving the distance data, a minimum distance of the plurality of distances and a maximum distance of the plurality of distances; generating, by the data processing system, a radial runout of the item based on a difference between the minimum distance and the maximum distance; and causing, by the data processing system, via an interface of a display device communicatively coupled to the data processing system, display of an indication of the radial runout of the item in response to the generation.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the item is a portion of a wheel assembly, comprising at least one of a rim, a hub, or a casing of a tire.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the mounting structure is coupled to a motor configured to generate torque to rotate the item while the distance data is generated by the distance sensor.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the mounting structure is provided on at least one of a buffer, an extruder, a builder, or a balancer.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: comparing, by the data processing system, in response to receiving the radial runout, the radial runout to a predetermined threshold; and causing, by the data processing system, via the interface of the display device, display of an indication of an anomaly in response to the radial runout being greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold.364914-9635-9790

Images