Vehicle Wheel Alignment Assessment Using Lateral Force Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing vehicle wheel alignment are complex and not easily accessible for quick and reliable determination of toe and camber angles, necessitating a simpler and more efficient diagnostic system.
Innovation Solution
A diagnostic apparatus comprising a measuring platform with lateral force sensors and a processing unit that detects and processes forward and return travel measurement signals to determine wheel alignment parameters, including camber and toe angles, using a combination of lateral and weight force data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image processing or mechanical sensors are used to measure wheel position, then wheel alignment parameters can be derived, but the system becomes complex and difficult to operate quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position measurement systems with a simplified force-based measurement system. Instead of using image processing or mechanical sensors to directly measure wheel position, the invention uses lateral force sensors to measure forces generated by the wheel, which are then processed to derive alignment parameters. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement approach by measuring lateral forces as an intermediate quantity rather than directly measuring wheel position or angles. The processing unit acts as an intermediary that converts force measurements into alignment parameters through mathematical relationships, simplifying the overall measurement system.
2Measurement precision
If direct measurement of wheel position is performed, then alignment parameters can be obtained, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming and not quick enough for efficient diagnostics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming direct position measurement with faster force-based measurement. The lateral force sensors can quickly capture force data as the wheel passes over the platform, and the processing unit rapidly computes alignment parameters from these force signals, significantly reducing diagnostic time compared to traditional position measurement methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement platform is positioned in advance along the track, and the system is prepared to capture force measurements as the wheel naturally passes over it. This preliminary setup allows for quick, opportunistic measurement without requiring complex positioning or alignment procedures during the actual measurement process.
3Ease of operation
If simple measurement methods are used, then the system is easy to operate, but reliability and accuracy of wheel alignment assessment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses lateral force as an intermediary measurement quantity that is easier to measure reliably than direct position or angle. The force measurements provide a stable, objective basis for deriving alignment parameters, improving reliability while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing unit processes the force measurement signals to derive alignment parameters, providing feedback that confirms the measurement process is working correctly. This computational feedback mechanism ensures reliable results while keeping the operational interface simple for the user.
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
Provides a quick, reliable, and efficient method for assessing wheel alignment, allowing for accurate determination of camber and toe angles without complex measurements, enhancing the ease of use for tire service specialists.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus comprises at least one lateral force sensor connected to the platform and configured to detect a lateral force applied to the platform
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for the diagnostic assessment of the wheel alignment of a vehicle (2) equipped with wheels (3) having tyres (301) coupled to respective rims (302), comprises the following steps: in a longitudinal movement of the vehicle (2) in a forward travel direction with one wheel (3) on a longitudinal track (4A), until the wheel (3) surmounts a measuring platform (5A) located along the track (4A), acquiring a forward travel measurement signal, representing a lateral force applied to the platform and directed transversely to both the longitudinal direction and the weight force at a forward travel instant at which the wheel surmounts the measuring platform (5A) as it moves along the track (4A) in the forward travel direction; in a longitudinal movement of the vehicle (2) in a return travel direction opposite to the forward travel direction with the wheel (3) on the track (4A), until the wheel (3) surmounts the measuring platform (5A), acquiring a return travel measurement signal, representing a lateral force applied to the platform (5A) and directed transversely at a return travel instant at which the wheel (3) surmounts the measuring platform (5A) as it moves along the track (4A) in the return travel direction; processing the forward and return measurement signals in order to determine, for the wheel (3), at least an angle of camber and/or toe.