Tyre Changer Load Roller Sensing for Precise Wheel Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel service machines, particularly tyre changer machines, face challenges with imprecise locking systems, limited operational space, and incomplete diagnostic capabilities, which affect the accuracy of tyre balancing and the reliability of measurements, leading to unsatisfactory vibration reduction and potential tyre damage.
Innovation Solution
A tyre changer machine with a movable load roller and a precise locking device that allows for ample operational space and advanced sensors to measure radial forces and geometrical parameters, enabling complete diagnostic information and efficient tyre fitting and removal processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a locking system is used to fix the rim to the spindle in balancing machines, then the wheel can be placed in rotation for measurements, but the locking precision is insufficient leading to measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical locking system with an electromagnetic coupling system. The electromagnetic coupling device uses magnetic fields to secure the wheel to the spindle, eliminating mechanical contact points that cause precision losses. This substitution maintains secure holding while allowing for more accurate rotational measurements during balancing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electromagnetic coupling device between the wheel and spindle. This intermediary component acts as a mediator that transfers rotational motion without the direct mechanical contact of traditional locking systems, thereby reducing measurement errors while maintaining secure wheel fixation during rotation.
2Strength
If a tyre changer machine is designed with robust structure for high forces, then the machine can handle tyre removal and fitting, but the operational space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic structural elements that can adapt their configuration during operation. The machine structure includes movable components that can shift positions to create additional operational space when needed, while maintaining robust strength during high-force tyre removal and fitting operations. This dynamic adjustment allows the machine to optimize both structural integrity and operator accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the machine structure into segmented, modular components. This segmentation allows different parts of the machine to be independently positioned and adjusted, creating flexible operational spaces while maintaining overall structural robustness. The modular design enables the machine to accommodate both high-force operations and operator movement requirements.
3Loss of information
If sensors are added to measure radial forces and geometrical parameters, then diagnostic information is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs sensors with multiple functions that can detect various parameters including radial forces, geometrical parameters, and vibration characteristics. By making the sensing system universal and multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate specialized sensors, thereby improving diagnostic information completeness while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple sensing capabilities into integrated sensor assemblies. Rather than installing separate sensors for each measurement parameter, the system merges force sensing, positional sensing, and diagnostic capabilities into unified sensor units. This consolidation provides comprehensive diagnostic information while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through integrated design.
Data Source
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AI summary
A machine (1) for fitting and removing a tyre to and from a corresponding vehicle wheel rim comprises: a frame including a base (3) with a wheel-holder unit (4) designed to fix the wheel by means of a locking device and to rotate it about a first axis (A) of rotation; at least one bead breaker tool (29), which is movable along a second axis (B) parallel to the first axis; a removal tool (37); and a roller (2) rotating about an axis parallel to the first axis (A). The roller (2) is movable towards and away from the wheel-holder unit (4) along an operating trajectory between a position of noninterference with the tyre of a wheel mounted on the wheel-holder unit (4) and an active position where it applies a predetermined force to the tyre tread. A connecting structure movably connects the roller (4) to the frame (2). At least one force sensor (40) is connected to the roller (2) for measuring values of a force parameter representing a radial force transmitted to the roller (2) by the tyre. The roller (2) comprises a protective shell (39), which covers a portion of the lateral surface of the roller (2) for preventing accidents to a tyre service specialist due to contact with the roller (2) during its use.