Wheel alignment system cabinet structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vehicle service system consoles for machine vision vehicle wheel alignment systems face challenges such as lengthy cable runs, clutter, and inefficient use of workshop space due to the placement and support of vertical posts, which also make repositioning difficult and hazardous.

Innovation Solution

A compact, self-contained vehicle service system console with an integrated camera support column where the vertical post is secured internally within the console's base member, allowing for easy repositioning and reduced material usage, with a transport platform and casters for mobility and internal storage compartments for accessories.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If the vertical post is secured to an external side surface of the operator workstation, then cable runs are reduced, but the combined assembly cannot be positioned flush against a wall and floor space is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable run lengthVSAvoidworkshop floor space
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The vertical post is integrated into the operator workstation housing, merging two previously separate components (post and console) into a single unified structure. This allows the post to be positioned within the housing footprint, enabling flush placement against walls and eliminating wasted floor space while maintaining short cable runs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Length of stationary object

If the vertical post is secured to an external side surface of the operator workstation, then cable runs are reduced, but the workstation becomes top-heavy and repositioning becomes difficult and dangerous

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable run lengthVSAvoidrepositioning ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the vertical post with the operator workstation housing into a single integrated unit, the center of gravity is distributed within the housing footprint rather than being elevated externally. This integrated design maintains a stable weight distribution that allows safe and easy repositioning while keeping cable runs short.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the vertical post is bolted to the workshop floor, then stability is provided, but the console becomes immobile and must remain affixed to the floor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevertical post stabilityVSAvoidconsole mobility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The integration of the vertical post within the operator workstation housing creates a self-contained mobile unit. The post derives stability from its internal mounting within the housing rather than external floor bolting, allowing the entire assembly to be easily repositioned while maintaining structural stability during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Strength

If the vertical post is made full height to support cameras, then camera support is adequate, but material usage and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera support capabilityVSAvoidmaterial usage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of extending the vertical post full height externally, the post is positioned vertically within the housing footprint and integrated into the console structure. This dimensional repositioning allows adequate camera support through internal routing and mounting while significantly reducing material usage and overall weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS9644782B2Wheel alignment system cabinet structure
Publication Date: 2017.05.09 HUNTER ENGINEERING COMPANY
  • US9644782B2 patent drawing
  • US9644782B2 patent drawing
  • US9644782B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine vision vehicle wheel alignment service system console with an integrated internal structure for supporting a vertical post carrying a machine vision sensor cross member. The vertical post is secured at least partially within the confines of a base unit and has a lower end which terminates at a position which is spaced vertically above the floor of the console, adjacent to an upper surface of the base unit.