Automated Image Acquisition Configuration for Tyre Testing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tire testing machines require manual configuration by trained technicians, which is time-consuming and inefficient, especially when testing tires of different sizes and shapes, as suitable lighting settings must be adjusted for accurate image recording.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing computer-assisted image analysis to determine suitable configuration settings for the image recording system, including position, alignment, and lighting parameters, allowing for automated adjustment and storage for future tests, reducing manual effort and test duration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual configuration of the image recording system is performed by trained technicians, then reliable tire testing can be achieved, but the configuration process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliability of tire testingVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-configuration by automatically determining optimal configuration settings through image analysis. The evaluation device analyzes test images and automatically adjusts configuration parameters without requiring manual intervention by trained technicians, enabling the system to configure itself while maintaining testing reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration operations with automated computational processes. Instead of technicians manually adjusting physical controls, the system uses computer-based image analysis and automated control algorithms to determine and apply configuration settings, substituting human操作 with electronic automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If manual configuration by specially trained technicians is used, then accurate image recording can be achieved, but the operational complexity and training requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of image recordingVSAvoidease of configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically determines optimal configuration settings through image analysis, eliminating the need for specialized technician knowledge. The evaluation device autonomously analyzes test images and adjusts parameters, allowing any operator to achieve accurate image recording without extensive training

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where test images are analyzed by an evaluation device that provides information about configuration quality. This feedback loop enables automatic adjustment of configuration settings to optimize image recording accuracy, replacing manual expert judgment with automated evaluation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Illumination intensity

If configuration settings are manually adjusted for each tire size and shape, then suitable lighting can be achieved, but the productivity decreases due to repeated manual adjustments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesuitability of lightingVSAvoidtesting throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary automated configuration by analyzing test images and determining optimal settings before actual testing begins. Configuration parameters are pre-determined through automated evaluation, eliminating the need for repeated manual adjustments when testing different tire sizes and shapes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically adjusts configuration parameters based on image analysis results. By dynamically changing parameters such as lighting settings, exposure time, and gain based on analyzed image quality, the system adapts to different tire sizes and shapes without manual intervention, maintaining lighting suitability while increasing productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP3819623B1Method for configuring an image acquisition system of a tyre testing device
Publication Date: 2023.08.23 CONTINENTAL REIFEN DEUTSCHLAND GMBH

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for configuring an image acquisition system (10) of a tire testing device, comprising the steps of: repeatedly changing the configuration settings of the image acquisition system (10), generating at least one image of a tire (100, 100a, 100b) to be tested at each of the different configuration settings of the image acquisition system (10), and determining suitable configuration settings of the image acquisition system (10) for the tire (100, 100a, 100b) to be tested based on the generated images of the tire (100, 100a, 100b) at the different configuration settings of the image acquisition system (10) by means of a data processing device (18).