Structured Light Wheel Measurement System for Real-Time Dimensional Analysis

The patent replaces manual visual inspection and mechanical measurement tools with an automated optical measurement system. The system uses structured light projection and image capture to automatically measure wheel dimensions, eliminating the need for manual positioning and reading while significantly improving measurement accuracy and reliability.

The patent creates an optical copy of the wheel surface by projecting structured light patterns and capturing the deformed light patterns with image sensors. This optical copying process enables non-contact measurement of wheel dimensions, preserving the original wheel while obtaining precise measurement data through image analysis.

The patent transitions from static detection to dynamic online measurement. The measurement system is integrated into the wheel processing line and continuously measures wheel dimensions during production or maintenance operations. The system captures images at multiple positions and synthesizes complete wheel contour information dynamically, enabling real-time quality monitoring without stopping production.

The patent implements continuous measurement by capturing wheel images at multiple positions along the processing line and synthesizing complete contour information. This continuous imaging process ensures that every wheel passing through the system is measured, providing uninterrupted quality monitoring and eliminating the need for separate batch measurement operations.

The patent uses structured light projection where specific light patterns (such as laser lines or grid patterns) are projected onto the wheel surface. The system captures the deformation of these known patterns caused by wheel geometry, enabling measurement independent of ambient light conditions. The controlled light source creates high-contrast images that are immune to environmental lighting variations.

The patent employs periodic illumination by projecting structured light patterns in a controlled sequence. The light source is activated in specific patterns (such as alternating lines or rotating grids) that create time-separated measurement data, allowing the system to distinguish between the projected pattern and ambient light through temporal filtering and pattern recognition.

The patent implements self-positioning by using the wheel's own features (such as the flange or tread contact points with the rail) as reference elements. The measurement system automatically identifies and aligns with these inherent wheel features without requiring external positioning fixtures or manual adjustment, enabling the wheel to position itself for measurement as it passes through the detection zone.

The patent performs preliminary positioning by pre-calibrating the measurement system with known wheel geometry parameters and positioning reference points. The system is configured in advance to recognize standard wheel profiles and automatically adjust measurement parameters based on the detected wheel type, eliminating the need for real-time manual positioning during measurement operations.