Programmable Tire Assembly Machine Dynamic Arm Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wheel and tire mounting processes face difficulties due to new tire technologies and decreasing tire aspect ratios, requiring an adjustable methodology for dynamic control of mounting arms to maintain proper tire positioning and mounting efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A programmable wheel and tire assembly machine with a robotic arm providing six controlled axes and servo-controlled drivers for the upper stuffer assembly, and single servo-controlled axes for the lower stuffer assembly, allowing continuous manipulation and force feedback during the mounting process, with a machine controller recalling specific mounting protocols based on wheel and tire data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed location methodology with hard stopping positions is used for mounting arms, then the machine structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate new tire technologies and decreasing tire aspect ratios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed location methodology into a dynamic system where mounting arms can be continuously positioned along curved paths using robotic manipulators. The system transitions from hard stopping positions to continuous adjustable positions, enabling adaptation to various tire aspect ratios and new tire technologies while maintaining automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the mounting arms by implementing programmable control that allows continuous adjustment of arm positions and movements. This enables the machine to accommodate different tire specifications by modifying control parameters rather than requiring physical structural changes.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional fixed position present arms are used, then the device is simple to operate, but it cannot dynamically control tire positioning during the mounting process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control through programmable controllers that monitor and adjust the positions of mounting arms during the tire mounting process. This ensures precise tire positioning while automating the control complexity, making the system both precise and easy to operate through automated feedback mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical positioning with automated robotic manipulators controlled by programmable logic. This substitution enables precise dynamic control of tire positioning during mounting while reducing operational complexity through automation.
3Reliability
If single stroke motions with hard stopping positions are used, then the mounting process is fast, but it cannot maintain proper tire positioning throughout the mounting process
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces static hard stopping positions with dynamic continuous positioning along curved paths. This allows the mounting arms to maintain proper tire positioning throughout the entire mounting process while preserving mounting speed through optimized robotic motion control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous positioning control throughout the mounting process rather than discrete stop-and-go movements. This ensures tire positioning stability is maintained continuously while the automated system optimizes motion for productive efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A programmable wheel and tire assembly machine and method of assembly is disclosed which compensates for different wheel and tire combinations, as well as dynamically manipulates the present arms during the mounting process. An upper present arm is supported in a manner to provide at least two axes of movement, the upper present arms capable of independent manipulation along/about each axis. A lower present arm is supported in a manner to provide at least one axis of movement, the lower present arm capable of manipulation in a horizontal plane. Wheel and tire data is collected and used to generate a mounting protocol for individual tire & wheel combination. Continuous position feedback of the present arms may be employed to further control movement throughout the mounting process.