Movable Vehicle Alignment Measurement for Lifted Wheel Positions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle alignment measurement systems face challenges when the vehicle is lifted, as they either obstruct operators or result in imprecise measurements due to camera recalibration, and fail to account for changes in vehicle height.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a movable measuring unit and connector system that adjusts height and position relative to contact tracks, allowing for precise alignment measurement without obstructing operators and maintaining calibration, using a supporting assembly that can be connected to the ceiling, wall, or floor for optimal positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cameras are mounted on the vehicle lift, then the relative positions between the vehicle and cameras remain constant, but the cameras obstruct operators and may upset calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring unit is made movable relative to the contact tracks through a connector that can extend and retract. This dynamic positioning allows the measuring unit to move out of the operator's way after measurement while maintaining precise positioning during measurement, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and operator accessibility
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous cameras are mounted in the workspace, then the vehicle alignment can be measured when lifted, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple fixed cameras, the invention uses a single movable measuring unit that can dynamically adjust its position along the contact tracks. This eliminates the need for numerous cameras while maintaining the ability to measure alignment at different vehicle heights and positions
Solution Approach 2:
The single measuring unit serves multiple functions by moving to different positions along the contact tracks, replacing what would otherwise require multiple fixed cameras. The connector system enables this multi-functional capability, allowing one device to perform the work of many
3Ease of operation
If the measuring unit is positioned at high connecting point, then operator work is not hampered, but the connector length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to be extendable and retractable, allowing it to achieve the necessary length to reach high connecting points when needed, then retract to minimize space requirements. This dynamic length adjustment resolves the contradiction between providing operator workspace and managing connector length
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
An apparatus (1) for measuring an alignment of a wheeled vehicle (V), comprises: two contact tracks (P) for the wheels of the vehicle, extending along a longitudinal direction (L); a measuring assembly (2), including a measuring unit (21), for capturing one or more images of the vehicle and generating corresponding image data, and a connector (22), having a first end (22A) connected to the measuring unit (21) and positioned at a first height (Q1), and a second end (22B), positioned at a second height (Q2), greater than the first height (Q1); a control unit (3), configured to receive the image data (301) from the measuring unit (21) and to process the image data (301) to derive vehicle alignment information therefrom. The measuring unit (21) is movable towards and away from the contact tracks (P).