Robotic Vehicle Wheel Handling for Fastener Removal and Tire Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual process of removing and replacing vehicle wheels is inefficient and poses physical hazards due to the need for manual handling and operation of tools, which can lead to time-consuming and potentially dangerous procedures.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising computers, software, and robotic apparatus that automatically determines wheel fastener patterns, removes and replaces wheels, and secures them using a robotic apparatus controlled by a computer network, integrating with vehicle lifting devices and tire handling machines for automated tire changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual wheel removal and replacement is performed, then the process can be completed with simple equipment, but the operation time increases and physical hazards arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system that uses sensors, computer vision, and robotic arms to remove and replace wheels. This substitution eliminates direct human contact with heavy components and hazardous tools, resolving both the productivity and safety contradictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the wheel removal and replacement process to be performed autonomously by the robotic apparatus without human intervention during the critical operations. The robot independently identifies wheel locations, removes fasteners, handles wheels, and replaces them, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating human exposure to hazards.
2Productivity
If automated robotic apparatus is used for wheel removal and replacement, then productivity and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic apparatus is designed as a multi-functional system that can perform multiple operations including wheel identification, fastener removal, wheel handling, and wheel replacement using a single integrated platform. This universality reduces the need for multiple separate devices and justifies the complexity through consolidated functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a computer vision and sensor-based intermediary layer that bridges the gap between the physical wheel assembly task and the robotic execution. This intermediary enables automated decision-making and coordination, managing the system complexity through modular information processing and control.
3Loss of time
If manual handling of wheels is performed, then equipment cost is reduced, but time consumption and physical strain increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-identifying wheel locations, fastener positions, and optimal removal sequences using computer vision and sensors before execution. This preliminary planning enables the robotic system to execute the complex task efficiently in minimal time, justifying the automation complexity through time savings.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and apparatus for automated vehicle wheel removal and replacement are provided. One system includes a computer system with applications for scheduling the replacement of tires for the vehicle. An electronically controlled lift device and robotic apparatus is configured for interaction with the computer system. The lift device mechanically adjusts arms for placement on lift points of vehicles. The robotic apparatus detects positioning of lug nut configuration for a wheel, removes lug nuts, and then removes the wheel from the wheel hub with gripping arms. The wheel and tire are then handed off to a separate tire changing machine. When a new tire is replaced the robotic apparatus then mounts the wheel to the original wheel hub, and then secures the lug nuts to the lug nut bolts.