Wheel Alignment Head Power Management for Cordless Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cordless vehicle wheel alignment systems face challenges with power consumption, as smaller batteries provide lighter weight but shorter operation times, while larger batteries increase weight and hinder installation, operation, and maneuverability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of advanced power management techniques in alignment heads, including operation modes and adaptive power saving strategies, such as reducing functional module activity and data fetching frequencies, along with a unique charging mechanism that allows charging without an external AC power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If smaller batteries are used in cordless alignment heads, then weight is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but operation time is substantially limited
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment head dynamically switches between normal operation mode and power saving mode based on operational conditions. The system monitors inactivity periods and automatically transitions to a low-power state, allowing the use of smaller batteries while maintaining adequate operation time through adaptive power management rather than simply increasing battery capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic monitoring of operational status and transitions between active and sleep states. By periodically assessing whether functional modules are actively being used, the system can cycle through power states, maintaining functionality when needed while conserving energy during idle periods, thus extending effective operation time with smaller batteries.
2Duration of action of moving object
If larger batteries with higher capacities are used, then operation time is extended, but weight increases and causes difficulties in installation, operation, maneuverability and transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes operational parameters dynamically by adjusting the power consumption levels of various functional modules. During normal operation, full power is supplied to all modules. During idle periods, the system reduces power consumption by entering sleep mode, effectively changing the operational parameters to extend battery life without requiring larger capacity batteries.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment head autonomously manages its own power consumption by monitoring its operational state and automatically transitioning between power modes without external intervention. This self-service power management allows the system to optimize battery usage in real-time, extending operation time with smaller batteries through intelligent, autonomous power control.
3Measurement precision
If functional modules operate continuously in normal mode, then measurement precision and functionality are maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational state of functional modules based on actual usage needs. When measurements are being actively performed, modules operate in normal mode to maintain precision. When no measurements are being taken, modules transition to sleep mode to reduce power consumption, creating a dynamic balance between measurement precision and energy usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous readiness for measurement functions while minimizing power consumption during idle periods. By implementing rapid transition capabilities between operational modes and maintaining the ability to immediately resume normal operation when needed, the system ensures continuity of useful measurement action while reducing overall energy consumption through strategic use of sleep modes.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A wheel alignment head and system use advanced power management to reduce non-essential power consumption, to extend operation time between charges. The wheel alignment head is operable in a first operation state and a second operation state that consumes less power than the first operation state. In response to an occurrence of at least one of preset events, the wheel alignment head switches its operation from the first operation mode to the second operation mode.