Tyre Inspection Station Merging Illumination Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for checking tires in production lines require multiple devices with different features for detecting various defects, increasing complexity, cost, and cycle time, while also occupying significant physical space.
Innovation Solution
A method and station that integrate two different illumination systems with a single camera to acquire 2D images of the outer tire surface in various illumination conditions, allowing for the detection of defects like twisted cords, shifting in the carcass, and cuts with reduced equipment and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices with different features are used for detecting various defects, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and physical space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two different illumination systems (first illumination system with multiple light sources at different positions, and second illumination system with telecentric lighting) into a single integrated apparatus that shares a common camera and control unit. This merging allows the system to detect multiple defect types (emerging twisted cords, shifting in carcass, cuts) with one device rather than requiring separate devices for each defect type, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple detection tasks using a single device. The first illumination system can detect emerging twisted cords and shifting in carcass, while the second illumination system detects cuts and other surface defects. The control unit coordinates both illumination systems and processes images from both, enabling one apparatus to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices with different features are used for detecting various defects, then detection capability is improved, but physical space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two illumination systems into a single compact apparatus that occupies less physical space than would be required for separate devices. The first illumination system with its multiple light sources and the second telecentric illumination system are integrated around a shared camera position, allowing both systems to operate from a compact footprint while maintaining their respective detection capabilities for different defect types
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are used for detecting various defects, then detection capability is improved, but cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is configured to coordinate the operation of both illumination systems and the camera in a continuous, seamless manner during tire inspection. The system can switch between or simultaneously operate both illumination systems without interruption to the inspection process, allowing comprehensive defect detection to be performed in a single continuous pass through the inspection station, thereby maintaining production cycle time while achieving enhanced detection capability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient detection of multiple tire defects within the constraints of production line cycle times and spatial limitations, reducing costs and physical space needed, while maintaining a compact and manageable checking apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a first light source configured to illuminate with diffused light radiation a first portion of an outer surface of the tyre
Implementation Method 2
a second light source and a third light source configured to illuminate with grazing light radiation a second portion of an outer surface of the tyre, respectively from opposite sides with respect to a first optical axis of the camera
Implementation Method 3
a second illumination system with a second optical axis, said second optical axis forming an angle with a first optical axis of the camera, said second illumination system being configured to illuminate with an almost telecentric light a third portion of an outer surface of the tyre
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for checking tyres, and relative station (100), comprising: - illuminating a first portion of outer surface by means of a first illumination system (6) with a first light source (11) turned on and a second light source (12) and third light source (13) in respective inactive positions more backward along said first optical axis (8) with respect to the first light source (11), and acquiring a first two-dimensional image by means of a camera exerting a compression force in order to elastically deform the first portion of surface; - illuminating a second portion of outer surface by means of the first light source (11), second light source (12) and third light source (13) in time sequence, with the second light source (12) and the third light source in the respective active position more advanced along the first optical axis (8), and more distal from the first optical axis, with respect to the first light source (11), and acquiring respective second two-dimensional images of the second portion of surface by means of the camera; - illuminating a third portion of outer surface by means of a second illumination system (7) almost telecentric with a second optical axis (9) which forms an angle with the first optical axis greater than or equal to 60° and less than or equal to 100°, with the first illumination system (6) turned off, and acquiring a third two-dimensional image of the third portion of outer surface by means of the camera (5).