Balancing Weight Transport Using Cam-Driven Precision Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for handling and transporting vehicle balancing weights are manual, prone to errors, and lack automation, leading to inefficiencies and the need for additional balancing steps, while existing solutions using continuous polymer tapes result in less robust and reliable balancing weights.
Innovation Solution
The development of an apparatus and method for automated transport and trimming of balancing weights using adhesive tapes with cams and sensors for precision positioning and measurement, along with magnetic suspension for frictionless transport, and dual wheel drives for synchronized movement, ensuring accurate and efficient handling and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual handling of balancing weights from boxes is used, then the supply is simple and cheap, but errors occur in weight selection and automation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated transport system using a conveyor belt that mechanically presents weights to the application position. The system uses a transport belt with pockets or holders that automatically move weights through the balancing station, eliminating manual selection and application while maintaining reliability through precise mechanical positioning and control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by designing the transport mechanism to automatically present the correct weight size to the application position based on pre-programmed parameters. The controller automatically selects and positions weights without human intervention, allowing the system to serve itself in weight selection and application, thereby eliminating errors while maintaining ease of operation
2Extent of automation
If continuous polymer tape is used for balancing weights, then automation is achieved, but the weights are less robust and reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses weights made from homogeneous material composition throughout, avoiding the layered or composite structure of polymer tapes. All weights are manufactured from the same base material with consistent properties, ensuring uniform performance and reliability while maintaining automation through standardized dimensions and attachment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameters of the balancing weights by using solid, rigid materials with defined geometric shapes and masses, rather than flexible polymer tapes. The weights have controlled parameters including mass, dimensions, and attachment surface properties that optimize both automation compatibility and mechanical robustness during transport and application
3Device complexity
If friction-based transport wheels are used, then simple transport is achieved, but synchronization is difficult and slip occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs cam-shaped elements with curved surfaces that interact with corresponding curved surfaces on the transport belt or weight holders. These cam mechanisms convert rotational motion into precise linear positioning, eliminating slip through geometric constraint rather than friction. The curved cam profiles ensure positive engagement and accurate synchronization of multiple transport stations
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates compliance elements and damping mechanisms that compensate for variations in weight placement and transport belt tension before they can cause synchronization errors. These cushioning elements absorb shocks and maintain consistent contact pressure between cam mechanisms and transport components, ensuring reliable positioning accuracy throughout the weight transport cycle
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise, error-free transportation and trimming of balancing weights, maintaining their integrity and facilitating large-scale counting and measurement without deformation, thus improving the efficiency and reliability of the balancing process.
Implementation Method 1
Due to the cams, there is no slip between the transport wheel and/or transport belt and the balancing weights. This allows for precision positioning the balancing weights. Furthermore, precision measurement of the length of balancing weights may be done. Therefore, a large number of balancing weights may be counted without error. For counting and/or measuring, a cam sensor, sensing the cams of the transport wheel and/or transport belt may be provided.
Implementation Method 2
the balancing weights are individual weights at a distance from each other to allow for bending of the tape at at least one axis, preferably at two axes under a right angle... the balancing weights are attached to a transport tape which may preferably be an adhesive tape for attaching the balancing weights to a rim
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and a method for transporting and positioning of balancing weights connected together to form a chain of balancing weights is disclosed. A drive means comprises at least a transport wheel and/or a transport belt. The drive means has at least one cam to interface with a gap between two adjacent balancing weights of the chain of balancing weights. Furthermore a cutter may be provided for cutting of balancing weights from the chain.