Rack-and-Gear Calibration Stand Alignment for Precise Vehicle Centering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning automobile calibration devices, such as those used in ADAS calibration, are complex and lack precision, requiring repeated measurements and adjustments to align centers, and are prone to changes in parameters like deviation and pitch angles during movement.
Innovation Solution
A position adjustment apparatus with a slide member, supporting member, and adjustment member, including a gear meshed with a rack, allows for precise vertical and horizontal movement of the calibration device, utilizing a drive assembly with a motor and transmission mechanism to enable stable and accurate alignment with the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual pulling or external tow truck equipment is used to move the calibration device, then the device can be moved to the front end or rear end of the automobile, but the operations become complex and precision is low requiring repeated measurements and observations to align centers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the calibration device movable through a wheeled base structure that allows smooth movement along the automobile's longitudinal direction. The device transitions from a static position to a dynamically adjustable position, enabling precise alignment through controlled movement rather than complex manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary alignment mechanism consisting of alignment marks and visual indicators that facilitate centerline alignment between the calibration device and automobile. This intermediary system simplifies the alignment process by providing clear visual references, eliminating the need for repeated measurements and observations.
2Reliability
If manual pulling or external tow truck equipment is used to move the calibration device, then the device can be repositioned, but originally adjusted parameters and constraints (deviation angle and pitch angle) may change during pulling and need to be adjusted repeatedly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the calibration device with adjustable mounting structures and angle correction mechanisms before movement. The deviation angle and pitch angle adjustments are prepared in advance, allowing quick recalibration after repositioning without requiring extensive repeated adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by incorporating adjustable mounting brackets and angle correction mechanisms that allow rapid modification of deviation angle and pitch angle parameters. These mechanisms enable the operator to quickly restore original calibration parameters after movement, maintaining reliability while improving adjustment efficiency.
3Manufacturing precision
If a gear and rack mechanism is used to enable the supporting member to move in a preset direction, then precise position adjustment is achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent partially applies mechanics substitution by replacing complex manual positioning mechanisms with a gear-rack driven system that provides precise, controlled movement. The gear-rack mechanism substitutes for imprecise manual handling, delivering manufacturing-level position adjustment precision while keeping the overall structure manageable through standardized mechanical components.
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 convenient and precise adjustment of the calibration device's position relative to the vehicle, improving the alignment of components like cameras and radars by allowing stable and precise movement in both vertical and horizontal directions.
Implementation Method 1
One of the slide member and the supporting member includes a rack. The adjustment member includes a gear. The gear is meshed with the rack. When rotating, the gear can drive the rack to move in a preset direction
Data Source
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AI summary
An automobile calibration device (100) comprises a support apparatus (10), a position adjustment apparatus (20) mounted at the support apparatus (10). The position adjustment apparatus (20) includes a slide member (21), a supporting member (22) and an adjustment member (24). The supporting member (22) is movably mounted at the slide member (21). One of the slide member (21) and the supporting member (22) includes a rack (222). The adjustment member (24) includes a gear (242). The gear (242) is meshed with the rack (222). When rotating, the gear (242) can drive the rack (222) to move in a preset direction, to enable the supporting member (22) to move in the preset direction with respect to the slide member (21). By means of the gear engagement between the gear (242) and the rack (222), the supporting member (22) can move stably and precisely in the preset direction with respect to the slide member (21), so that the centerline of the automobile calibration device (100) and the centerline of an automobile (500) to be calibrated can be calibrated conveniently and precisely.