Linear Camera Tire Inspection with Multi-Source Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tire inspection methods in production lines face challenges in efficiently detecting defects on tire surfaces using two-dimensional images, as existing systems are bulky, complex, and not versatile enough to acquire images in both diffuse and grazing light, leading to difficulties in detecting three-dimensional defects from two-dimensional images and high operational costs.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a linear camera and at least three light sources with their main extension directions parallel to the optical plane, where two light sources are on opposite sides and the third is interposed between them, allowing for compact and versatile acquisition of images in diffuse and grazing light, enabling detection of three-dimensional defects from two-dimensional images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing inspection systems are used, then tire surface defects can be detected, but the systems are bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light sources (first and second light sources for diffuse illumination, third light source for grazing illumination) and the linear camera into a single integrated inspection apparatus. This merging of components that would traditionally be separate systems enables compact construction while maintaining the capability to detect various defect types through multiple illumination modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection apparatus is designed with multi-functional capability to acquire images under different lighting conditions (diffuse and grazing light) using the same device. The first and second light sources provide diffuse illumination for general surface inspection, while the third light source provides grazing illumination for detecting three-dimensional defects, allowing a single apparatus to perform multiple inspection functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing inspection systems are used, then some defects can be detected, but they are not versatile enough to acquire images in both diffuse and grazing light
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different illumination qualities to different inspection needs by using the first and second light sources for diffuse illumination when general surface inspection is required, and the third light source for grazing illumination when three-dimensional defect detection is needed. This local application of appropriate illumination quality enables versatile adaptation to different inspection scenarios while maintaining detection precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection apparatus dynamically switches between different illumination modes (diffuse and grazing light) depending on the inspection requirements. The command and control unit can selectively activate different light sources to adapt the illumination characteristics to the specific defect type being inspected, making the system versatile while preserving measurement precision for each defect category.
3Reliability
If existing inspection systems are used, then inspection can be performed, but operating times and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the inspection process into distinct illumination phases (diffuse illumination from first and second light sources, grazing illumination from third light source) that can be selectively applied. This segmentation allows the system to perform comprehensive inspections reliably while reducing operating time by only activating the necessary light sources for each specific inspection task, thereby improving productivity.
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 reliable and efficient tire inspection with reduced operating times and costs, capable of acquiring high-power diffuse light images and grazing light images from both sides, effectively detecting defects on tire surfaces within a production line.
Implementation Method 1
a first light source, a second light source and a third light source which are adapted to respectively emit a first, a second and a third light radiation
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for checking tires described as a linear camera having an objective line lying on an optical plane; a first, a second and a third light source for emitting respectively a first, a second and a third light radiation; a command and control unit for selectively activating at least one from among the first, second and third light source and activating the linear camera in order to acquire a two-dimensional image of a linear surface portion of the tire synchronously with the activation of the first, second and third source. The first and second light source lie on opposite sides of the optical plane. Furthermore, the first, second and third light source include each one or more sub-sources each having a respective main extension direction parallel to the optical plane and the distance of the sub-sources of the third light source from the optical plane is less than the distance of the first and second light source from the optical plane.