Laser Level Wheel Alignment Fixture for Thrust and Toe Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel alignment devices are costly and complex, making them inaccessible and difficult for 'do-it-yourselfers' to use effectively, lacking the ability to accurately measure thrust angles and having limited universal application.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost apparatus combining a laser level, aluminum channel, piping, and flat stock, with a supporting stand and light reception board, allowing for the determination of thrust, toe, and camber angles without requiring fastening or clamping to wheels, using a laser level for precise measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If professional alignment devices with computers and complex emitting/receiving devices are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential laser beam emission function from complex alignment devices, eliminating computers, receivers, and complex circuitry. The solution uses a simple laser level that projects a laser beam to define reference lines, with measurements taken using a protractor and tape measure, thereby achieving sufficient precision without complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive professional alignment equipment with inexpensive components: a laser level ($), aluminum channel and piping, a protractor, and a tape measure. These low-cost items collectively provide the necessary measurement capability at a fraction of the cost of professional devices
2Measurement precision
If professional alignment devices are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex setup and usage procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the alignment measurement process into simple, independent steps: positioning the laser level, projecting reference lines, measuring distances with a tape measure, and calculating angles with a protractor. This modular approach makes the procedure straightforward and easy to follow for DIY users
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables DIY users to perform alignment measurements independently without requiring professional service. The simplified device and clear measurement procedure allow individuals to accurately measure thrust, toe, and camber angles on their own vehicles, eliminating the need for professional alignment shops
3Ease of manufacture
If existing low-cost alignment devices are used, then cost is reduced, but measurement capability is limited and thrust angle calculation is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal alignment device that can measure all three critical wheel alignment parameters: thrust angle, toe angle, and camber angle. The laser level and measurement system are designed to work on any wheel of any motor vehicle, providing complete alignment measurement capability in a single affordable system
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
The apparatus provides accurate and affordable measurements of wheel alignment angles, with universal application to any motor vehicle wheel, simplifying the process and improving accessibility for DIY users.
Implementation Method 1
The complete wheel apparatus is comprised of a laser level (1) mounted in a frame (2)
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting fixture assembly allows the attachment of a laser light emitting device—in this case a laser level—used along with a light reception board to determine thrust, toe, and camber measurements of motor vehicles. The mounting fixture provides a means of surface mounting the laser device to the rims of the wheels of motor vehicles without the need for any physical clamping or attaching devices used at the rim, wheel, or tire of a vehicle in conjunction with a laser emitting device support fixture. The mounting fixture permits the surface mounting of the laser device to wheels having camber angles within a normal range of deviance (+/−10° approximately). The fixture assembly maintains surface contact of the laser device throughout the adjustment process. The fixture allows for the radial rotation of the light emitting device facilitating the determination of measurements used in the calculation of toe angles.