Camera-Based Tire Tread Depth Measurement Using Tread Indicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining vehicle tire tread depth are either inaccurate or cumbersome, lacking a simple and reliable solution for precise measurement.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a camera to record the tire profile, using image analysis to determine tread depth by evaluating the height dimension of tread depth indicators and optionally aided by color markings, with software to display results on a smartphone or automated holder, eliminating the need for manual measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to determine tread depth, then the measurement process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the accuracy and reliability of the measurement are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a camera as an intermediary device to capture images of the tire tread, which then serves as the basis for automated depth calculation. The camera records visual information of the tread depth indicator, and software processes this image data to determine the remaining tread depth with high precision, eliminating the need for complex contact measurement devices while maintaining simplicity in operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an optical-based image analysis system. Instead of using physical tread depth gauges that require manual insertion and reading, the system uses a camera to capture optical images of the tread indicator and automatically calculates the depth through image processing algorithms, thereby improving measurement accuracy while keeping the system simple and non-intrusive
2Measurement precision
If automated image analysis is used to determine tread depth, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the measurement system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service measurement system where the camera automatically captures the tread indicator and the integrated software automatically processes the image to calculate the remaining tread depth. The system performs all measurement and calculation functions autonomously without requiring manual intervention or interpretation, making the operation as simple as taking a photograph while delivering professionally accurate results
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the camera hardware, image capture function, image processing software, and depth calculation algorithms into a single integrated system. By merging these previously separate components into one unified device, the system achieves high measurement accuracy while maintaining ease of operation, as the user only needs to capture an image without needing to understand or configure the underlying complex image analysis processes
3Reliability
If multiple measurement points are examined manually, then comprehensive tread depth assessment is achieved, but the time required for measurement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables rapid sequential imaging of multiple tread locations, capturing images from different positions around the tire in quick succession. The software then processes all these images systematically to provide a comprehensive assessment of tread depth across multiple measurement points, achieving thorough evaluation in a fraction of the time required for manual measurement at each location
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs automated image processing and depth calculation for all measurement points in advance, generating a complete tread depth profile before the user needs to review the results. The system pre-processes multiple images and calculates depths for all examined locations, allowing the user to receive comprehensive assessment data immediately without waiting for sequential manual measurements
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
A method is proposed comprising the following steps: a) providing a vehicle tire with a tread depth (4), b) recording at least a partial area of the tire tread of the vehicle tire with a camera (6), c) automating the determination of depth information from the recording of the partial area of the upper surface of the tread, whereby a height dimension of a tread depth indicator (8) is recorded during the recording and the height dimension of the tread depth indicator (8) is used as the absolute height difference to determine the absolute value of the tread depth (4), d) determining the tread depth (4) of the vehicle tire in a specified area of the tire tread.