AI Wheel Service Imaging for TPMS-Safe Tool Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tire servicing methods, such as tire mounting and removal, and wheel balancing, lack efficiency, quality, and safety, particularly in accurately positioning tools and avoiding damage to TPMS sensors and other components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of AI-based image processing to determine the current configuration of vehicle wheels or rims, identify intended servicing operations, and automatically set up tools, using machine learning models to enhance tool positioning and prevent collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional tire servicing methods are used, then the process is simpler, but the speed, quality, and safety of tire servicing deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated system that uses vision technology (cameras and image processing) to detect wheel configurations and control tools. This substitution of mechanical/manual systems with automated vision-based control directly increases servicing speed while managing system complexity through software-based solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the tire servicing apparatus to automatically determine its own configuration and the configuration of the wheel/rim without human intervention. The vision system captures images, processes them to identify component positions, and autonomously controls tool movements, allowing the system to service itself and improve productivity.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual tool positioning is used, then the system is easier to control, but the manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual estimation and mechanical positioning with a vision-based detection system. Cameras capture images of the wheel/rim and tools, image processing algorithms analyze the positions, and the system calculates precise tool positioning automatically. This substitution achieves high manufacturing precision by eliminating human error in measurement and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The vision system continuously monitors the positions of tools and wheel components, providing real-time feedback to the control system. This feedback loop allows the system to adjust tool positions dynamically to achieve accurate positioning, improving manufacturing precision while the automated nature of the feedback reduces the perceived complexity for the operator.
3Reliability
If automated vision-based tool positioning is used, then the reliability and safety improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual operation with an automated vision-based control system that detects wheel configurations and controls tool movements. This substitution eliminates human error in judgment and execution, significantly improving reliability and safety. The system automatically identifies TPMS sensors, determines safe tool paths, and executes precise movements without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The vision system acts as an intermediary between the operator and the physical servicing process. Cameras and image processing algorithms analyze the scene, identify critical components like TPMS sensors, and translate this information into controlled tool movements. This intermediary layer protects against damage by maintaining safe distances from sensitive components while achieving reliable automated servicing.
4Ease of operation
If traditional servicing procedures are used, then the operation is simpler, but the quality and reduction of human error deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic configuration detection and tool positioning without requiring operator expertise in measuring and calculating positions. The vision system independently identifies wheel components, determines tool positions, and executes the servicing procedure, reducing reliance on human skill and minimizing human error while maintaining ease of operation through automated execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The vision system continuously provides feedback on the actual positions of tools and wheel components, allowing the control system to automatically adjust and correct any deviations. This closed-loop feedback ensures high-quality servicing by eliminating human error in measurement and positioning, while the system handles the complexity of error correction automatically.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure pertains to apparatuses and methods for servicing a motor vehicle wheel or rim, which employ AI-based image processing. Employing AI-based image processing may help to enhance the speed, quality and safety of a tire servicing procedure. A method is provided which comprises the step of creating one or more images covering at least a portion of an apparatus for servicing the motor vehicle wheel or rim; and the step of applying an AI-based model to the one or more images. In some implementations, the step of applying an AI-based model comprises the sub-step of determining a current configuration of the apparatus and/or the vehicle rim. Moreover, an apparatus for servicing a motor vehicle wheel or rim is provided, which is specifically adapted for performing such methods.