Optical Wheel Condition Assessment Using Laser Displacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assessing vehicle wheel conditions, such as alignment, suspension, and tire inflation, require equipment mounted on the wheels or stationary vehicles, limiting the ability to conduct assessments while the vehicle is moving.
Innovation Solution
A system using optical displacement sensors to measure the offset between two locations on a moving vehicle's wheel, determining the tire wearing angle by comparing distances at different times, allowing for wheel condition assessment without mounting equipment on the vehicle or requiring it to be stationary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If equipment is mounted on the wheels or vehicle is hoisted for wheel alignment assessment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical mounting systems and vehicle hoisting equipment with optical measurement systems. The laser displacement sensor optically tracks points on the rotating wheel to determine alignment, eliminating the need for mechanical attachments to wheels or vehicle support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reflective test surface as an intermediary on the wheel that facilitates optical measurement without requiring direct mechanical attachment of sensors to the wheel. The reflective surface serves as a mediator between the wheel and the laser tracking system.
2Measurement precision
If the vehicle is stationary for wheel alignment assessment, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static measurement systems to dynamic measurement systems. The laser tracking unit follows points on the rotating wheel while the vehicle moves through the measurement area, enabling alignment assessment during vehicle motion rather than requiring the vehicle to be stationary.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs measurements while the vehicle is moving through the measurement area, eliminating the need to stop the vehicle for alignment assessment. The system captures data during the vehicle's passage, allowing continuous workflow and improved productivity.
3Measurement precision
If reflective test surfaces are mounted on wheels for measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of manufacture deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inexpensive, easily applied reflective markings on the wheel rather than complex permanent reflective test surfaces. The markings can be applied with simple materials and methods, significantly reducing preparation complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If three laser beams are used to measure wheel orientation at a single instant, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement process into multiple sequential measurements taken at different times during wheel rotation, rather than requiring simultaneous three-point measurements. This segments the complex spatial measurement into simpler temporal measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the periodic rotation of the wheel to enable measurements at different phases of rotation. By tracking points on the wheel during its periodic rotation, the system determines alignment without requiring complex multi-beam simultaneous measurement.
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
Enables simple and accurate assessment of wheel alignment, suspension, and tire inflation while the vehicle is in motion, reducing labor and enabling timely maintenance interventions.
Implementation Method 1
The orientation determining device comprises a laser displacement sensor that emits a laser beam parallel to a surface on which the apparatus rests
Implementation Method 2
The laser beam reflects off the test surface (or wheel hub) at three non-collinear points
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2~3
Figure 4A~5B
AI summary
A method of assessing a condition of a wheel on a vehicle involves contactlessly determining distance of a first location on the wheel from a fixed point not on the wheel at a first time while the vehicle is moving and contactlessly determining distance of a second location on the wheel from the fixed point at a second time after the vehicle has moved. The two distances are compared to determine an offset between the first and second locations on the wheel. The offset provides an indication of tire wearing angle of the wheel while the vehicle is moving. The method can be used to assess wheel alignment and wheel suspension. An apparatus and system for effecting the method involves the use of a displacement sensor, especially an optical displacement sensor (e.g. a laser) for making the distance determinations. The system and apparatus is completely contactless and only one stationary displacement sensor is required to make the appropriate distance measurements to the wheel on a moving vehicle.