Millimeter-Wave Wheel Scanning for Fast, Accurate Dimension Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the geometrical dimensions of vehicle wheels during maintenance are slow, inaccurate, and prone to errors due to environmental conditions and sensor limitations, such as mechanical, ultrasonic, and optical sensors.
Innovation Solution
A contactless method using a radar system, specifically a millimeter-wave radar system operating between 76 GHz and 81 GHz, to scan and measure the geometrical dimensions of vehicle wheels by determining the distances and angular positions of measurement points relative to a reference position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical sensors are used to determine wheel dimensions, then physical contact can be made with the wheel, but the process becomes extremely slow and less accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact sensors with a radar-based electromagnetic field system. The radar antenna emits electromagnetic waves that interact with the wheel without physical contact, eliminating mechanical wear and contact-related inaccuracies while enabling faster non-contact scanning of wheel dimensions.
2Speed
If ultrasonic sensors are used to scan the wheel, then the scanning process can be performed, but the speed is limited by the speed of sound waves traveling through air
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of wave propagation by transitioning from acoustic waves (ultrasonic) to electromagnetic waves (radar). Electromagnetic waves travel significantly faster than sound waves in air, enabling rapid scanning of the wheel and reducing processing time while maintaining measurement capability.
3Productivity
If optical sensors are used to determine wheel dimensions, then scanning can be performed quickly at the speed of light, but the sensors are sensitive to environmental conditions and require certain exposure time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electromagnetic spectrum parameter by using radar waves (microwave frequency) instead of optical frequencies. Radar waves are less sensitive to environmental conditions such as dust, moisture, and ambient light that affect optical sensors, while maintaining the advantage of fast scanning speeds and enabling reliable measurements without prolonged exposure time.
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
This approach enables quick and accurate scanning of wheel dimensions, reduces processing time, minimizes exposure times, and provides reliable, robust, and cost-effective results, even under adverse environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the step of contactless scanning involves the use of at least one sensor device comprising a radar system
Implementation Method 2
measuring the distances of the plurality of measurement points on the wheel with respect to a reference position
Data Source
AI summary
Method and related apparatus for determining the geometrical dimensions of a wheel, or at least one part of a wheel, with particular reference to vehicle wheels, in the context of a wheel maintenance process. This method uses contactless sensors which comprise a scanning radar system, preferably a millimeter-wave radar system, to scan the wheel, or at least one part of the wheel, quickly and accurately.