Automated Wheel Balance Weight Applicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wheel-tire balancing processes are inefficient due to the risk of incorrect weight application and the use of lead weights, which can lead to vibration and wear, and the substitution of lead with iron weights results in rusting issues.
Innovation Solution
A weight applicator system that includes a shaft, an applicator assembly, and a weight feed assembly, controlled by a processor to accurately apply a prescribed length of weighted material to specific locations on a wheel-tire assembly, using a pressure roller and actuators for precise alignment and adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lead pound-on weights are used for wheel-tire balancing, then balancing effectiveness is improved, but toxicity concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from lead to zinc alloy, maintaining the weight and balancing effectiveness while eliminating toxicity. The zinc alloy weights are applied using a automated dispensing system that controls the amount and placement of the weighted material.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If iron pound-on weights are used to replace lead weights, then toxicity concerns are addressed, but rusting occurs over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material from iron to zinc alloy, which provides both non-toxic properties and superior corrosion resistance. The zinc alloy inherently resists rusting while maintaining the required weight characteristics for balancing.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated weight application system is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical weight attachment with an automated dispensing system controlled by a processor. The system uses a pressure-sensitive adhesive applicator that can precisely control the amount and location of weighted material application, eliminating human error while the modular design keeps complexity manageable.
4Device complexity
If manual weight attachment process is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system performs self-alignment and self-regulation through the processor control, where the system automatically determines the correct weight amount and placement location based on balancing requirements, eliminating the need for complex manual measurement and attachment procedures.
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
The system ensures accurate and efficient weight distribution, reducing vibration and wear, while avoiding the toxicity and rusting issues associated with lead and iron weights.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure roller rotatably supported by the radial portion about an axis of rotation... operable to press the weighted material against
Data Source
AI summary
A weight applicator system includes a shaft, an applicator assembly, and a weight feed assembly. The shaft defines a length between a proximal end and a distal end configured to support a wheel-tire assembly for common rotation about a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The applicator assembly is supported by the shaft and includes a base portion disposed upon the shaft and operable to translate axially along the length of the shaft, a radial portion connected to the base portion and operable to radially move relative to the base portion between a retracted position and an extended position; and a pressure roller rotatably supported by the radial portion about an axis of rotation. The weight feed assembly is operable to feed a prescribed length of weighted material to the pressure roller.