Automated Rim Set Transfer Arm for Tire Uniformity Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual changing of tire rims in tire uniformity testing systems is time-consuming and strenuous, requiring operator intervention and potentially involving heavy lifting devices, especially when tire sizes change.
Innovation Solution
An automated system using a transfer arm with a gripper mechanism and actuator to change rim sets, featuring a bracket with locking members that align and secure rims to spindles, allowing for quick and efficient replacement without manual manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual rim changing is used, then operator control is maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming and strenuous
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs rim changing operations autonomously without requiring operator intervention. The transfer arm automatically positions rims, the locking mechanism self-actuates through cam engagement, and the entire process completes without manual manipulation, making the system serve itself
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation of rim changing is replaced with an automated mechanical system consisting of a transfer arm, gripper mechanism, and cam-actuated locking mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for operator physical effort while maintaining precise mechanical control
2Productivity
If automated rim changing is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rim changing system is divided into distinct functional modules: a transfer arm for positioning, a gripper mechanism for holding rims, a bracket for support, and a locking mechanism for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall system design while maintaining automation
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket serves as an intermediary component that temporarily holds the rim set during transfer and positioning. It facilitates the transition from storage to spindle mounting without requiring direct complex manipulation, acting as a simple mediator in the automation process
3Adaptability or versatility
If rim sets are changed frequently, then tire size versatility is improved, but downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rim sets are pre-positioned on shelves in the storage unit, ready for immediate transfer. The automated transfer arm can quickly retrieve and install the required rim set without manual search or preparation, enabling rapid size changes and minimizing downtime between different tire size tests
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for changing rim sets at a testing station of a tire uniformity testing system that includes a storage unit for storing a plurality of rim set assemblies. A transfer arm is reciprocally movable and includes a gripper mechanism for gripping a rim set assembly and moving it from a storage position to a position at which rims forming part of the rim set assembly are aligned with opposed spindles at the testing station. The rim set assembly includes a bracket having structure engageable by the transfer arm and at least one of the rims forming part of the assembly includes a locking member rotatable between a first position and a second position. The bracket includes a structure for immobilizing the rim to inhibit relative rotation between the rim and the bracket and further includes a lever mechanism for moving the locking member from its first position to its second position in order to engage retaining members forming part of the bracket. The lever mechanism moves the locking member from its second position to its first position when the rim is aligned with an associated spindle in order to engage other retaining members forming part of the spindle. The rim is released from the bracket as the locking member moves to engage the other retaining members. After release, the bracket moves to a remote position spaced from the testing station. To remove the rim sets, the steps for attaching rims to the spindles are reversed in order to release the rims from the spindles while simultaneously engaging the bracket. The resulting rim set assembly is moved to a remote position defined by a storage unit that stores a plurality of rim set assemblies. The disclosed locking member and associated rim can be used to facilitate the manual installation of a test rim to a spindle.