WHEEL SERVICE MACHINE WITH COMPACT SENSING DEVICE

The present invention relates to a wheel service machine and a method for servicing a wheel. The wheel service machine, like a tyre changer or a wheel balancer, for servicing a wheel (W), like a vehicle wheel, comprising a rotary mounting including a shaft (S) to which the wheel (W) is mounted, a frame work for carrying at least the rotary mounting and a sensing device mounted to the frame work, for determining geometrical dimensions of the wheel (W), or parts of the wheel (W), the sensing device comprises a carrier element and a first sensing unit for sensing the wheel (W) and computing means for determining the geometrical dimensions of the wheel (W) based on the data received from the sensing device, the first sensing unit being mounted on the carrier element, the wheel service machine further comprises a drive means for enabling a pivotal movement of the sensing device wherein the drive means is a micro stepper motor. 1. A wheel service machine , like a tyre changer or a wheel balancer , for servicing a wheel (W) , like a vehicle wheel , comprising:a rotary mounting including a shaft (S) to which the wheel (W) is mounted,a frame work for carrying at least the rotary mounting, anda sensing device mounted to the frame work, for determining geometrical dimensions of the wheel (W), or parts of the wheel (W), the sensing device comprises a carrier element and a first sensing unit for sensing the wheel (W) and computing means for determining the geometrical dimensions of the wheel (W) based on the data received from the sensing device, the first sensing unit being mounted on the carrier element;the wheel service machine further comprises a drive means for enabling a pivotal movement of the sensing device, wherein the drive means is a micro stepper motor.2. The wheel service machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first sensing unit is an optical sensing unit which includes an emitter claim 1 , preferably a laser emitter claim 1 , and a receiver claim 1 , preferably ...

COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR A TYRE SERVICE MACHINE AND MEASURING UNIT FOR BEING USED WITH SUCH COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

The present invention relates to communication system for tyre service machine being configured for receiving tyre and/or rim of vehicle wheel rotatably about rotation axis, the communication system comprising at least one processing unit and at least one measuring unit, at least one measuring unit comprising at least one sensor component for measuring at least one property of wheel, processing component for processing data acquired by at least one sensor component and/or for processing input data received from at least one of at least one processing unit, at least one processing unit and at least one measuring unit each comprising data communication component for receiving data from and/or transmitting data to another data communication component. The data communication component of processing unit and data communication components of at least one measuring unit are arranged for communicating wirelessly with each other in accordance with at least one sensor-independent protocol.

METHOD FOR DETECTING THE ECCENTRICITY OF A TIRE FOR VEHICLE WHEELS WITHIN PROCESSES OF MAINTENANCE OF SAID WHEELS AND APPARATUS FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF WHEELS OF VEHICLES

An apparatus for the maintenance of wheels of vehicles, like a balancer or a device for mounting/dismounting tires, comprises a support adapted to support a rim of a wheel of a vehicle. A device for detecting the eccentricity of a tire of the wheel is mounted on the support. Such device comprises an optical system configured to capture a light beam reflected by a tread of the tire and focus it on a point of an optical sensor. The optical sensor emits a signal indicative of an average value of a radial distance of the linear portion from the main axis. A control unit processes a plurality of average values corresponding to different linear portions of the tread and obtained during the rotation of the tire, and detects the eccentricity of said tire. 1. A method for detecting the eccentricity of a tire for vehicle wheels , preferably within processes of maintenance of said wheels , comprising:i. making a wheel rotate about a main axis of said wheel, said wheel comprising a rim and a tire;ii. illuminating a linear portion of a tread of the tire with a planar beam of light, preferably laser, wherein said linear portion has an axial width smaller than an axial width of the tread and greater than an axial width of grooves of said tread;iii. capturing a light beam reflected by the tread and focusing it on a point of an optical sensor, in which a signal emitted by the optical sensor is indicative of an average value of a radial distance of the linear portion from the main axis, said average value being calculated along the extension of said linear portion;iv. processing a plurality of average values corresponding to different linear portions of the tread and obtained during the rotation of the tire and detecting the eccentricity of said tire.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , at least during the steps ii and iii claim 1 , the planar beam of light and the optical sensor are fixed with respect to the main axis.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein ...

DEVICE FOR LIFTING AT LEAST ONE VEHICLE WHEEL OR TYRE, WITH DETECTOR OF THE STATE OF WEAR OF THE LATTER

A lifting device ( 10, 40 ) for at least one wheel ( 8 ) of a vehicle or for a tyre ( 6 ), said device ( 10, 40 ) comprising at least one platform ( 12, 41, 42 ) on which the wheel ( 8 ) or tyre ( 6 ) moves, said platform ( 12 ) being liftable relative to a fixed surface (P). The movable platform ( 12 ) is associated with a laser scanner ( 20 ) for detecting the state of wear of the tyre ( 6 ).

DETERMINATION OF NON-UNIFORMITIES OF LOADED WHEELS BY LOAD SIMULATION

The invention relates to a method for contactless determining non-uniformities of a loaded wheel, comprising the steps of determining outer contour of at least a portion of the unloaded wheel; simulating loading of the wheel with a virtual loading element bearing against the tyre tread for a plurality of rotary positions of the wheel on the basis of the determined outer contour, a displacement of the determined outer contour caused by the virtual loading element and a predetermined spring rate associated to the tyre tread; and determining non-uniformities of the loaded wheel using the simulation results. 1. A method for determining non-uniformities of a loaded wheel comprising a rim and a tyre mounted to the rim , the method comprising the steps of:determining an outer contour of at least a portion of the unloaded wheel, the portion comprising at least a tread of the tyre,simulating loading of the wheel with a virtual loading element bearing against the tyre tread for a plurality of rotary positions of the wheel on the basis of the determined outer contour of the unloaded wheel, a displacement of the determined outer contour caused by the virtual loading element, and a predetermined spring rate associated to the tyre tread, anddetermining non-uniformities of the loaded wheel using the simulation results.2. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the step of simulating comprises simulative loading the wheel with a predetermined force exerted by the virtual loading element, andwherein the step of determining non-uniformities comprises determining radial runout of the loaded wheel.3. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the step of simulating comprises simulative loading the wheel with a predetermined distance between the virtual loading element and a rotation axis of the wheel, andwherein the step of determining non-uniformities comprises determining radial force variation of the loaded wheel.4. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the step of determining non ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING AND IMPROVING RUNNING CHARACTERISTICS OF A PNEUMATIC TYRE OR A VEHICLE WHEEL

A method for determining or improving running characteristics of a vehicle wheel (tyre/rim assembly), comprising supporting the wheel axis of the vehicle wheel with at least a single degree of freedom of vibration perpendicular to the wheel axis. In the interior of the tyre at least one amount of a compensating substance which initiates in its flowing state a compensating effect on the rotating vehicle wheel can be disposed, and the vehicle wheel can be rotated while the compensating substance is brought into the flowing state such that the compensating substance is distributed inside the tyre during the rotation of the vehicle wheel to improve the running characteristics of the vehicle wheel, wherein the running speed of the rotating vehicle wheel is kept in a range different to the natural frequency of the rotating vehicle wheel and its suspension or supporting means. 115-. (canceled)16. A method for improving running characteristics of a pneumatic tyre or a vehicle wheel (tyre/rim assembly) , comprising:supporting respectively the tyre or the vehicle wheel in its rotation axis with at least a single degree of freedom of vibration perpendicular to the wheel axis,disposing in the interior of the tyre at least one amount of a compensating substance which initiates in its flowing state a compensating effect on the rotating vehicle wheel, androtating the vehicle wheel while the compensating substance is brought into the flowing state such that the compensating substance is distributed inside the tyre during the rotation of the vehicle wheel to improve the running characteristics of the vehicle wheel,wherein the tyre or the vehicle wheel is rotated in a loaded condition with a load acting on the periphery of the rotating tyre or of the rotating vehicle wheel, and.wherein, in the loaded condition, a load roller is pressed against the outer peripheral tyre surface and the roller axis of the load roller is kept in a stationary position.17. The method according to claim 16 ...

METHOD FOR MOUNTING A TYRE ON A RIM OR DEMOUNTING A TYRE FROM A RIM AND APPARATUS THEREFORE

The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting a tyre from a rim. The method includes the steps of rotating the wheel (tyre/rim assembly) by an electric motor about an axis, checking the current consumption of the electric motor during the mounting and demounting operation, and continuously and automatically adjusting a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor during the mounting/demounting operation. The apparatus for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting a tyre from a rim comprises an electric motor for rotating the wheel (rim/tyre assembly) about an axis, a sensing device for sensing the motor current and transmitting corresponding signals to a control device and an adjustment controller for continuously and automatically adjusting a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor during the mounting/demounting operation. 1. A method for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting a tyre from a rim , comprising:rotating a wheel, including an assembly of the tyre and the rim, by an electric motor about an axis,checking a current consumption of the electric motor during the mounting or demounting operation, andcontinuously and automatically adjusting a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor during the mounting or demounting operation.2. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising:providing different specific combinations of torque and speed of the electric motor, which may be selected for controlling the mounting or demounting operation.3. The method according to claim 2 , further comprising:selecting the specific combinations of torque and speed of the electric motor by adjusting the frequency and/or the amplitude of the motor current and/or the voltage.4. The method according to claim 3 , further comprising:providing predetermined values of the frequency and/or the amplitude of the motor current and/or the voltage, which correspond to specific ...

METHOD FOR MOUNTING A TYRE ON A RIM OR DEMOUNTING A TYRE FROM A RIM AND APPARATUS THEREFORE

The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting a tyre from a rim. The method includes the steps of rotating the wheel (tyre/rim assembly) by an electric motor about an axis, checking the current consumption of the electric motor during the mounting and demounting operation, and continuously and automatically adjusting a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor during the mounting/demounting operation. The apparatus for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting a tyre from a rim comprises an electric motor for rotating the wheel (rim/tyre assembly) about an axis, a sensing device for sensing the motor current and transmitting corresponding signals to a control device and an adjustment controller for continuously and automatically adjusting a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor during the mounting/demounting operation. 1. A method for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting the tyre from the rim , comprising:rotating a wheel, including an assembly of the tyre and the rim, by an electric motor about an axis,selecting, depending on a target to be achieved during a mounting or demounting operation, a set of plural operation modes of the electric motor from a plurality of sets of plural operation modes of the electric motor for the target to be achieved, each operation mode corresponding to a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor,wherein when operating according to the selected set of operation modes, a first combination of torque and speed of the electric motor is used during a first time period of the mounting or demounting operation, and a second combination of torque and speed of the electric motor is used during a second time period of the mounting or demounting operation,the method further comprising:determining a current consumption of the electric motor during the mounting or demounting operation, andcontinuously and automatically adjusting ...

METHOD OF DETERMINING ROTARY ANGLE RELATED DATA OF A VEHICLE WHEEL

A method and an apparatus for determining rotary angle related measurement data of a body mounted rotatable about an axis of rotation, the body being a vehicle wheel or a part of a vehicle wheel, in particular a tyre or a rim, the method comprising the steps of obtaining measurement data comprising a plurality of measurement data elements of the rotating body together with respective measuring times, determining at least one rotational speed or revolution period of the body for at least one point in time, and associating the obtained measurement data elements to respective rotary angles of the body based on the respective measuring times and the at least one rotational speed or revolution period of the body. 1. A method of determining rotary angle related measurement data of a body mounted rotatable about an axis of rotation , the body being a vehicle wheel or a part of a vehicle wheel , in particular a tyre or a rim , the method comprising the steps of:obtaining measurement data comprising a plurality of measurement data elements of the rotating body together with respective measuring times,determining at least one rotational speed or revolution period of the body for at least one point in time,associating the obtained measurement data elements to respective rotary angles of the body based on the respective measuring times and the at least one rotational speed or revolution period of the body.2. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the measurement data comprise at least two measurement data element sequences of two simultaneously measuring sensor devices.3. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the respective rotary angles are relative rotary angles of the measurement data elements in relation to each other.4. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the respective rotary angles are absolute rotary angles of the measurement data elements in relation to a rotary reference angle.5. The method according to claim 4 , further comprisingdetermining the rotary ...

MICROWAVE MAGNETRON WITH CONSTANT ANODIC IMPEDANCE AND SYSTEMS USING THE SAME

A microwave magnetron includes a cathode for emitting electrons, a filament for receiving a filament current to heat the cathode to enable to cathode to emit the electrons, and an anode to which anodic power can be applied to affect a flow of the electrons. An anodic power input receives the anodic power to be applied to the anode, the anodic power being characterized by an anodic current, an anodic voltage, and an anodic impedance, the anodic impedance being a quotient of the anodic voltage and the anodic current. An electromagnet power input receives electromagnet power and applies the electromagnet power to an electromagnet to control an intensity of a magnetic field, the electromagnet power being characterized by an electromagnet current. A controller adjusts at least one of the parameters of the magnetron to affect the flow of electrons while maintaining the anodic impedance constant. 1. A microwave magnetron , comprising:a cathode for emitting electrons;a filament for receiving a filament current to heat the cathode to enable to cathode to emit the electrons;an anode to which anodic power can be applied to affect a flow of the electrons;an anodic power input for receiving the anodic power to be applied to the anode, the anodic power being characterized by an anodic current, an anodic voltage, and an anodic impedance, the anodic impedance being a quotient of the anodic voltage and the anodic current;an electromagnet for providing a magnetic field in which the electrons flow;an electromagnet power input for receiving electromagnet power and applying the electromagnet power to the electromagnet for controlling an intensity of the magnetic field, the electromagnet power being characterized by an electromagnet current; anda controller for controlling parameters of the microwave magnetron, the controller adjusting at least one of the parameters of the magnetron to affect the flow of electrons while maintaining the anodic impedance constant.2. The microwave magnetron ...

DETERMINATION OF BEHAVIOR OF LOADED WHEELS BY LOAD SIMULATION

The invention relates to a method for contactless determining a behavior of a loaded tyre or wheel, comprising the steps of determining a contour of at least a portion of the tyre or wheel; simulating loading of the tyre or wheel with a virtual loading element bearing against the tyre for at least one rotary position of the wheel on the basis of the determined contour, a displacement of the determined contour caused by the virtual loading element and at least one parameter associated to the tyre or wheel or to a part of the tyre; and determining the behavior of the loaded wheel using the simulation results. 1. A method for determining a behavior of a loaded tyre or wheel comprising a rim and a tyre mounted to the rim , the method comprising the steps of:determining a contour of at least a portion of the tyre or wheel,simulating loading of the tyre or wheel with at least one virtual loading element bearing against the tyre for at least one rotary position of the tyre or wheel on the basis of the determined contour, a displacement of the determined contour caused by the virtual loading element, and at least one parameter associated to the tyre or wheel or to a portion of the tyre, anddetermining the behavior of the loaded tyre or wheel using the simulation results.2. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the behavior comprises at least one of a force exerted between the tyre and the virtual loading element, a force exerted between the tyre and the rim, a force exerted by the rim or wheel on a rotary axis of the wheel, a deformation or displacement of the tyre or of a portion of the tyre, a deformation of the rim, a variation of one of said forces or deformations or displacements with respect to a plurality of load simulations relating to a plurality of rotary positions of the tyre or wheel.3. The method according to claim 2 ,wherein said force or deformation or displacement is determined in at least one of a radial direction, a lateral direction, and a ...

AUTOMOTIVE SHOP SERVICE APPARATUS HAVING A MEANS FOR DETERMINING THE ROLLING RESISTANCE COEFFICIENT OF A TYRE

A vehicle wheel service apparatus, in particular a wheel balancer or a tyre changer, comprising a load means for applying a predetermined load onto a peripheral surface of a wheel/tyre assembly, a sensor device arranged to determine forces acting between the peripheral surface of the wheel/tyre assembly and the load means, wherein the forces comprise at least a first force acting in a radial direction of the wheel/tyre assembly and a second force acting in a circumferential direction of the wheel/tyre assembly, and an evaluation device arranged to determine a rolling resistance coefficient of the tyre on the basis of the first and second forces. 1. A vehicle wheel service apparatus , in particular a wheel balancer or a tyre changer , comprising:a mounting device arranged to rotatably receive a wheel/tyre assembly comprising a tyre and a wheel rim,a load means for applying a predetermined load onto a peripheral surface of the wheel/tyre assembly,{'b': '14', 'first driving means arranged to move the mounting device and the load means relative to each other so that the peripheral surface of the wheel/tyre assembly () comes into contact with the load means,'}a control device arranged to control the movement of the mounting device and the load means relative to each other, and arranged to control the predetermined load applied by the load means,second driving means arranged to drive the mounting device and/or the load means for rotating the wheel/tyre assembly at least while it is in contact with the load means,a sensor device arranged to determine forces acting between the peripheral surface of the wheel/tyre assembly and the load means, wherein the forces comprise at least a first force (Fz) acting in a radial direction of the wheel/tyre assembly and a second force (Fx) acting in a circumferential direction of the wheel/tyre assembly, andan evaluation device arranged to determine a rolling resistance coefficient of the tyre on the basis of the first and second forces ( ...

LIFTING APPARATUS FOR VEHICLE WHEELS

A lifting apparatus for a vehicle wheel comprising a wheel support which is selectively movable in order to lift or lower a vehicle wheel which is positioned thereon. An actuator group is connected to the wheel support in order to actuate the lifting and lowering thereof. A control unit is operationally connected to the actuator group in order to control the actuation. A lifting sensor member is provided to detect the height of the wheel support. At least one actuation instruction brings about the actuation of the actuator group in order to lift the wheel support from a lowered rest position to a predetermined lifting position, which is detected by the lifting sensor member. 1. A lifting apparatus for a vehicle wheel comprising a wheel support which is selectively movable in order to lift or lower a vehicle wheel which is positioned thereon , an actuator group which is connected to the wheel support in order to actuate the lifting and lowering thereof , a control unit which is operationally connected to the actuator group in order to control the actuation of the actuator group , a lifting sensor member being provided to detect the height of the wheel support , at least one actuation instruction of the control unit bringing about the actuation of the actuator group in order to lift the wheel support from a lowered rest position to a predetermined lifting position , which is detected by the lifting sensor member.2. A lifting apparatus for a vehicle wheel according to claim 1 , wherein the actuator group comprises a motor which is connected to articulated quadrilateral type articulation means which are actuated by an actuator.3. A lifting apparatus for a vehicle wheel according to claim 2 , wherein the lifting sensor member is mounted on the quadrilateral type articulation means.4. A lifting apparatus for a vehicle wheel according to claim 1 , comprising at least one manual control member which is operationally connected to the control unit in order to selectively ...

Method for mounting and demounting a tyre to and from a wheel rim

The invention relates to a method for mounting/demounting a tyre (T) on a rim (R). The method comprises the steps of: determining an initial reference position for the mounting/demounting device (U, U), said initial reference position being proximal to an edge (E) of the wheel rim (R); linking the position of the mounting/demounting device (U, U) with the initial reference position; adjusting the position of the mounting/demounting device (U, U) with respect to either the first or the second direction; continuously detecting the position of the mounting/demounting device (U, U) with respect to said either first or second direction; and continuously and automatically adjusting the position of the mounting/demounting device (U, U), with respect to the other one of said either first or second direction, at least in dependence of the initial reference position. 112. A method for mounting a tyre (T) on a rim (R) of a vehicle wheel (W) and/or for demounting a tyre (T) from a rim (R) of a vehicle wheel (W) , in which a mounting/demounting device (U , U) is supported by a post of a tyre mounting/demounting machine (M) and is movable at least in a first direction , which is substantially parallel with respect to a rotational axis (A) of the vehicle wheel (W) , and in a second direction , which is substantially perpendicular with respect to said rotational axis (A) of the vehicle wheel (W) , comprising the steps of:{'b': 1', '2, 'determining an initial reference position for the mounting/demounting device (U, U), said initial reference position being proximal to an edge (E) of the wheel rim (R);'}{'b': 1', '2, 'linking the position of the mounting/demounting device (U, U) with the initial reference position;'}{'b': 1', '2, 'adjusting the position of the mounting/demounting device (U, U) with respect to either the first or the second direction;'}{'b': 1', '2, 'continuously detecting the position of the mounting/demounting device (U, U) with respect to said either first or ...

METHOD FOR MOUNTING A TYRE ON A RIM OR DEMOUNTING A TYRE FROM A RIM AND APPARATUS THEREFORE

The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting a tyre from a rim. The method includes the steps of rotating the wheel (tyre/rim assembly) by an electric motor about an axis, checking the current consumption of the electric motor during the mounting and demounting operation, and continuously and automatically adjusting a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor during the mounting/demounting operation. The apparatus for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting a tyre from a rim comprises an electric motor for rotating the wheel (rim/tyre assembly) about an axis, a sensing device for sensing the motor current and transmitting corresponding signals to a control device and an adjustment controller for continuously and automatically adjusting a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor during the mounting/demounting operation. 1. A method for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting the tyre from the rim , comprising:rotating a wheel, including an assembly of the tyre and the rim, by an electric motor about an axis,determining a speed of the electric motor during a mounting or demounting operation, andcontinuously and automatically adjusting a specific combination of torque and speed of the electric motor during the mounting or demounting operation based at least in part on the determined speed.2. The method according to claim 1 ,providing different specific combinations of torque and speed of the electric motor, which may be selected for controlling the mounting or demounting operation.3. The method according to claim 2 , further comprising:selecting the specific combinations of torque and speed of the electric motor by adjusting a frequency and/or an amplitude of a motor current and/or a motor voltage.4. The method according to claim 3 , further comprising:providing predetermined values of a frequency and/or an amplitude of a motor current and/or a motor voltage, which ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF POWER GENERATION WITH PHASE LINKED SOLID-STATE GENERATOR MODULES

A method of generating power with a power generation system. Solid state generators generate a plurality of outputs. The outputs of the solid state generator modules are combined from a plurality of channels, in a combiner, using a phase optimization technique to generate an in phase combined output power. 1. A method of generating power with a power generation system comprising:generating a plurality of outputs with a plurality of solid state generator modules; andcombining, in a combiner, the outputs of the solid state generator modules from a plurality of channels using a phase optimization technique to generate an in phase combined output power.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the phase optimization technique includes:determining a phase shift for at least one of the channels; andphase shifting the at least one channel.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of channels comprises three channels and the phase optimization technique includes:turning on the channels;determining a first channel, a second channel, and a third channel;phase shifting the second channel based on a sum of the first channel and the third channel to create an optimized second channel; andphase shifting the third channel based on a sum of the first channel and the optimized second channel.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising at least one additional channel claim 3 , wherein the phase optimization technique includes claim 3 , for each additional channel claim 3 , phase shifting said additional channel to create an optimized additional channel based on a sum of all other channels claim 3 , including any optimized channels.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the steps of phase shifting the second channel claim 3 , phase shifting the third channel claim 3 , and phase shifting additional channels are repeated a plurality of times.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the phase optimization technique includes determining a phase shift for at least one of the channels using an ...

Optical spot scanning of the condition of a tyre of a vehicle wheel (with wheel balancing machine)

Method and apparatus for determining geometrical dimensions of a vehicle wheel

A method and an apparatus of determining geometrical dimensions of a motor vehicle wheel (rim/tyre assembly) 1 by contact-less sensing, wherein the wheel is fixed on wheel receiving means 8 of a tyre changer, that at least one planar light beam 3 is emitted on to the wheel or at least a part of the wheel, wherein the light beam reflected at the impingement area is detected, and wherein the directions of the emitted and reflected light beams are evaluated for determining the shape and/or position of the respective impingement area 4 on the wheel 1.

Procedure and apparatus for optical scanning of a vehicle wheel

Wheel diagnosis system

Apparatus for determining the condition of a tire tread of a vehicle wheel

A method and apparatus for determining the condition of a tire tread of a vehicle wheel including a rim and a tire configured to perform the steps of: (1) emitting an electromagnetic radiation towards the tread of the tire, (2) receiving a reflected electromagnetic radiation from said tread of the tire in response to the emitted radiation, (3) processing the reflected radiation to obtain height data including respective heights of a plurality of points located on the tread of the tire, (4) repeating the steps (1) to (3) in successive time intervals within which the vehicle wheel has driven a predetermined distance, and storing the respective height data, particularly average values of the height data, each in dependence of the driven distance, and (5) deriving from the succession of the stored height data a residual mileage of the tire.

A process for calibrating a sensor

A process for calibrating a sensor for measuring an angle of inclination of a motor vehicle wheel, comprising a transducer which converts a unit of measurement of an angular displacement into a different quantity, constituted in the example by an electrical signal, which represents an indication of the measured angle, comprising: reading a plurality of known measurements relating to known and different angular displacements x j ; reading and storing a plurality of ordered pairs (x j , f j ), where x j = known measurement of angular displacement and f j = corresponding measurement of a transduced quantity obtained from a reading; calculation of a plurality of low-degree interpolating polynomials which are lower than the plurality of ordered pairs (x j , f j ), each of which results from a determined number of the ordered pairs of contiguous ordered pairs (x j , f j ). A calculation of a measurement of an angular displacement not coinciding with any of known measurements for angular displacements X j is performed with at least one polynomial interpolation using at least one of the interpolating polynomials, which is selected so that a measurement f read at the sensor for measurement x of the angular displacement (to be measured) is comprised within a field described by measurements f j belonging to contiguous ordered pairs (x j , f j ).

Determination of behavior of loaded wheels by load simulation

The invention relates to a method for contactless determining a behavior of a loaded tire or wheel, comprising the steps of determining a contour of at least a portion of the tire or wheel; simulating loading of the tire or wheel with a virtual loading element bearing against the tire for at least one rotary position of the wheel on the basis of the determined contour, a displacement of the determined contour caused by the virtual loading element and at least one parameter associated to the tire or wheel or to a part of the tire; and determining the behavior of the loaded wheel using the simulation results.

Improved procedure and device for mounting or dismounting tires on tires

Procedimiento para montar un neumático sobre una llanta o desmontar un neumático de una llanta, en el que una rueda o más bien un conjunto de neumático/llanta o únicamente la llanta es girada por un motor eléctrico (12), preferentemente de un tipo asíncrono, alrededor de un eje (A), y en el que la corriente de alimentación del motor eléctrico (12) es controlada variando la frecuencia y/o la amplitud y/o la tensión de alimentación de dicho motor (12), caracterizado por que se prevé que se lleve a cabo una monitorización continua de la velocidad de rotación de dicho motor eléctrico (12) y que la corriente de alimentación sea automáticamente variada con el fin de impartir al motor eléctrico (12) una combinación óptima de par/velocidad sobre la base de las condiciones de funcionamiento de montaje/desmontaje, permitiendo dicha variación de la corriente que el motor funcione en condiciones en las que su velocidad de rotación sea maximizada con el par requerido durante todo su periodo de funcionamiento. Procedure for mounting a tire on a tire or removing a tire from a tire, in which a wheel or rather a tire / tire assembly or only the tire is rotated by an electric motor (12), preferably of an asynchronous type, around an axis (A), and in which the supply current of the electric motor (12) is controlled by varying the frequency and / or the amplitude and / or the supply voltage of said motor (12), characterized in that provides that a continuous monitoring of the rotation speed of said electric motor (12) is carried out and that the supply current is automatically varied in order to impart to the electric motor (12) an optimum torque / speed combination on the base of the conditions of operation of assembly / disassembly, allowing said variation of the current that the motor works in conditions in which its rotation speed is maximized with the required torque during t All its period of operation.

Lifting apparatus for vehicle wheels

A lifting apparatus for a vehicle wheel comprising a wheel support (12) which is selectively movable in order to lift or lower a vehicle wheel which is positioned thereon. An actuator group (40) is connected to the wheel support (12) in order to actuate the lifting and lowering thereof. A control unit is operationally connected to the actuator group (40) in order to control the actuation. A lifting sensor member (50) is provided to detect the height of the wheel support (12). At least one actuation instruction brings about the actuation of the actuator group (40) in order to lift the wheel support (12) from a lowered rest position to a predetermined lifting position, which is detected by the lifting sensor member (50).

Method for tuning a vehicle wheel

Improved method and device for fitting or removing tyres on rims

A method for fitting a tyre onto a rim or removing a tyre from a rim envisages that a wheel or rather a tyre/rim assembly or the rim only is rotated by an electric motor (12), preferably of an asynchronous type, about an axis (A), the supply current of the electric motor (12) being controlled by varying the frequency and/or amplitude and/or supply voltage of said motor (12). It is envisaged that the supply current is automatically varied in order to impart to the electric motor (12) an optimum torque/speed combination based on the fitting/removal operating conditions. A device in which the above-mentioned method is implemented is also claimed.

Method for mounting a tyre on a rim or demounting a tyre from a rim and apparatus therefore

Method and apparatus for determining geometrical dimensions of a wheel

Method and apparatus for determining geometrical dimensions of a wheel, especially a vehicle wheel, or of at least a part of the wheel, comprising the steps of pivoting at least one sensing device for scanning the wheel surface or a part of the wheel surface about a pivot axis in plane perpendicular to the wheel axis and determining the geometrical dimensions of the scanned wheel surface in dependence from the angular position of the at least one sensing device, wherein the angular position is determined from measured accelerations of the sensing device in two predetermined directions during the pivotal movement of the sensing device.

Method and apparatus for determining geometrical data of a motor vehicle wheel mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation

A method and an apparatus for determining geometrical data of a motor vehicle wheel 2 mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation 1 , in which in at least two planes 19, 20 which are perpendicular to the axis of rotation 1 , the distances of a plurality of measurement points on a respective periphery of the corresponding part of the wheel (wheel rim 9 ) from a reference location 5 and the rotary angle positions of the respective measurement points are measured and the position of the motor vehicle wheel 2 with respect to the axis of rotation 1 is determined from the measurement values.

Method for detecting the eccentricity of a tire for vehicle wheels within processes of maintenance of said wheels and apparatus for the maintenance of wheels of vehicles

The present invention is relative to an apparatus (1) for the maintenance of wheels (4) of vehicles, like a balancer or a device for mounting/dismounting tires, and to a method for detecting the eccentricity of a tire (2) for vehicle wheels within processes of maintenance of the wheels (4) themselves. The apparatus (1) comprises a support (6) mounted on a base (5) and adapted to receive and support a rim (3) of a wheel (4) of a vehicle. The apparatus (1) comprises a device (10) for detecting the eccentricity of a tire (2) of the wheel (4) mounted on the support (6). Such device (10) comprises a source (12) emitting a beam of planar laser light (13), configured to illuminate a linear portion (17) of a tread (2A) of the tire (2), and an optical detector (14) The optical system (14) is configured to capture a light beam (18) reflected by the tread (2A) and focus it on a point (19) of an optical sensor (16). The optical sensor (16) is configured to emit a signal indicative of an average value of a radial distance of the linear portion (17) from the main axis (A), said average value being calculated along the extension of such linear portion (17). A control unit (9) is operatively connected to the optical detector (14) and is configured to process a plurality of average values corresponding to different linear portions (17) of the tread (2A) and obtained during the rotation of the tire (2), and detect the eccentricity of said tire (2).

Method for mounting and demounting a tyre to and from a wheel rim

The invention relates to a method for mounting/demounting a tyre (T) on a rim (R). The method comprises the steps of: determining an initial reference position for the mounting/demounting device (U1, U2), said initial reference position being proximal to an edge (E) of the wheel rim (R); linking the position of the mounting/demounting device (U1, U2) with the initial reference position; adjusting the position of the mounting/demounting device (U1, U2) with respect to either the first or the second direction; continuously detecting the position of the mounting/demounting device (U1, U2) with respect to said either first or second direction; and continuously and automatically adjusting the position of the mounting/demounting device (U1, U2), with respect to the other one of said either first or second direction, at least in dependence of the initial reference position.

Determination of the behavior of loaded wheels through load simulation

Un procedimiento para determinar el comportamiento de un neumático o rueda cargado que comprende una llanta y un neumático montado en la llanta, el procedimiento que comprende las etapas de: determinar un contorno de, al menos, una parte del neumático o rueda, simular la carga del neumático o rueda con, al menos, un elemento de carga virtual que se sostiene contra el neumático en, al menos, una posición giratoria del neumático o rueda sobre la base del contorno determinado, un desplazamiento del contorno determinado provocado por el elemento de carga virtual; y, al menos, un parámetro asociado al neumático o rueda o a una parte del neumático, y determinar el comportamiento de la llanta o rueda cargada usando los resultados de la simulación. A method for determining the behavior of a loaded tire or wheel comprising a tire and a tire mounted on the tire, the procedure comprising the steps of: determining an outline of at least one part of the tire or wheel, simulating the load of the tire or wheel with at least one virtual load element that is held against the tire in at least one rotating position of the tire or wheel on the basis of the determined contour, a determined contour displacement caused by the load element virtual; and at least one parameter associated with the tire or wheel or a part of the tire, and determine the behavior of the loaded tire or wheel using the simulation results.

Automotive shop service apparatus having means for determining the rolling resistance coefficient of a tyre

A vehicle wheel service apparatus, in particular a wheel balancer or a tyre changer, comprising a load means (26, 126) for applying a predetermined load onto a peripheral surface of a wheel/tyre assembly (14), a sensor device (30) arranged to determine forces acting between the peripheral surface of the wheel/tyre assembly (14) and the load means (26, 126), wherein the forces comprise at least a first force acting in a radial direction of the wheel/tyre assembly (14) and a second force acting in a circumferential direction of the wheel/tyre assembly (14), and an evaluation device arranged to determine a rolling resistance coefficient of the tyre (10) on the basis of the first and second forces.

Apparatus for determining the condition of a tire tread of a vehicle wheel

Process for reading fractions of intervals between contiguous photo-sensitive elements in a linear optical sensor

In a process for reading fractions of an interval between contiguous photo-sensitive elements in a linear optical sensor, of a type used in a goniometer, an angle measured is an angle formed with a reference axis of the goniometer, perpendicular to the linear optical sensor, by a light beam which is trained on the optical sensor by an optical device. The process comprises: a reading of a current image constituted by an order totality of intensities of incident radiations read on contiguous photosensitive elements; processing of data taken from the current image by means of a process which converges towards a result defining, with respect to an origin determined by an intersection of the reference axis with an axis of the sensor, a distance d of a point of incidence on the sensor of an ideal optical axis of the light beam.

Method for mounting a tyre on a rim to form a motor vehicle wheel and for demounting a tyre from a rim and apparatus therefore

The invention concerns a method for mounting a tyre on a rim to form a motor vehicle wheel and for demounting a tyre from a rim with at least one fitting or removal tool, wherein images of the wheel (14) or the rim (12) are created by a vision system (21) and corresponding signals are sent to a computer (18; 28), wherein commands to move the at least one fitting or removal tool (16) are sent to the at least one fitting or removal tool (16) by the computer (18; 30), wherein the signals of the vision system (21) and the commands sent to the at least one fitting or removal tool (16) are correlated to define the position of the at least one fitting or removal tool relative to the rim contour and wherein the movement of the at least one fitting or removal tool (16) is guided in dependence on the performed correlation without contacting the rim surface. Furthermore, the invention concerns an apparatus for mounting a tyre on a rim to form a motor vehicle wheel and for demounting a tyre from a rim.

Optical spot scanning of the condition of a tyre of a vehicle wheel (with wheel balancing machine)

The method involves emitting a light beam onto a surface of a pneumatic tire (10). A receiver (12) produces position signals based on an impingement point of a reflected beam. Rotary angle signals representing rotational angle of a wheel are supplied to an evaluation device. Dimensions and positions of the pneumatic tire or its constituent parts are determined based on the positional signals and the rotary angle signals. An independent claim is also included for an apparatus for optically scanning a pneumatic tire of a vehicle wheel.

Method and apparatus for determining geometrical data of a motor vehicle wheel mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation

A method and an apparatus for determining geometrical data of a motor vehicle wheel 2 mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation 1, in which in at least two planes 19, 20 which are perpendicular to the axis of rotation 1, the distances of a plurality of measurement points on a respective periphery of the corresponding part of the wheel (wheel rim 9) from a reference location 5 and the rotary angle positions of the respective measurement points are measured and the position of the motor vehicle wheel 2 with respect to the axis of rotation 1 is determined from the measurement values.

Method and apparatus for balancing a motor vehicle wheel

Method and apparatus for balancing a motor vehicle wheel

A method and apparatus for balancing a motor vehicle wheel, in which after an unbalance measuring operation, at least one balancing weight is attached to at least one balancing plane in a given angular position of the rim of the motor vehicle wheel. The rim surface is scanned to determine its contour features. The contour features are compared to reference contour features of stored rim surfaces, to determine matching rim types and at least one balancing plane associated with the best match.

Determination of non-uniformities of loaded wheels by load simulation

The invention relates to a method for contactless determining non-uniformities of a loaded wheel, comprising the steps of determining outer contour of at least a portion of the unloaded wheel; simulating loading of the wheel with a virtual loading element bearing against the tire tread for a plurality of rotary positions of the wheel on the basis of the determined outer contour, a displacement of the determined outer contour caused by the virtual loading element and a predetermined spring rate associated to the tire tread; and determining non-uniformities of the loaded wheel using the simulation results.

Method of optically scanning the tread surface of a pneumatic tyre of a vehicle wheel

A method of and an apparatus for optically scanning the tread surface of a pneumatic tire 10 which for forming a vehicle wheel 1 is mounted on a disc wheel 5 , wherein measurement data are obtained along a plurality of peripheral lines by light beam scanning, said data corresponding to the spacings of the impingement points of the light beams on the tread surface from a reference position, wherein associated first or higher harmonics for quality classification of the rotational truth of the vehicle wheel are formed in a computer-aided evaluation apparatus 9 from the measurement data along the respective peripheral lines.

Method for mounting A tyre on a rim or demounting A tyre from a rim and apparatus therefore

The invention relates to a method for controlling a current fed to an electric motor during an operation to mount a tire on a rim of a wheel including the tire and the rim, or to demount the tire from the rim. The wheel is rotated by an electric motor about an axis, and the motor current fed to the electric motor is controlled dependent on the rotational speed and torque required for the mounting and/or demounting operation. The motor current is automatically changed to cause the electric motor to apply a high torque peak to rotate the wheel, when the motor current is measured to be greater than a preset limit at a low rotational speed during a preset time. Furthermore, the invention relates to an apparatus for mounting a tire on a rim or demounting the tire from the rim.

Scanner system for garage equipment for motor vehicle garages

The present invention concerns a scanner system for scanning the surface of an object, especially a vehicle wheel, the system comprises a mobile scanner including at least one sensor adapted to sense at least one position on the surface of the object and a reference system to which the sensor is sensitively adapted to provide at least one sensor signal corresponding the at least one sensed position on the surface with respect to the reference system, wherein the reference system is designed to provide a magnetic field having at least one orientation and the sensor is a magnetic sensor to be positioned within said magnetic field in proximity of or on the surface to be scanned.

PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR OPTICAL EXPLORATION OF A VEHICLE WHEEL.

Procedimiento de exploración óptica de una rueda de vehículo dispuesta con el eje fijo mediante uno o varios rayos de luz, en el que un respectivo rayo de luz es enviado desde al menos un sitio determinado a la superficie de la rueda de vehículo y un respectivamente correspondiente rayo reflejado por la superficie irradiada de la rueda de vehículo es recibido en al menos un sitio determinado, pudiendo ser a partir de las direcciones del rayo respectivamente emitido y del correspondiente rayo reflejado y recibido determinadas con la ayuda de un ordenador medidas y posiciones de componentes de la rueda de vehículo, comprendiendo los componentes una llanta (4) y una rueda de disco (5); caracterizado por el hecho de que se exploran al menos dos puntos superficiales mutuamente enfrentados en el lado interior de la rueda y en el lado exterior de la rueda y a partir de los datos de posición de estos puntos explorados se determina con ayuda de un ordenador el espesor del material de la rueda en la zona de la rueda de disco (5).

Method for mounting and demounting a tyre to and from a wheel rim

Wheel balancing apparatus and method with improved hidden spokes placement for irregular wheels

Microwave magnetron with constant anodic impedance and systems using the same

Power supply apparatus

A power supply apparatus, comprising at least one circuit board having thereon at least a first single phase power factor controlled (PFC) circuit, and a second PFC corrected circuit, the first single phase PFC circuit and the second PFC corrected circuit each having at least one PFC device in communication with at least one inverter, at least one resonant (LC) circuit positioned on the at least one circuit board and in electrical communication with at least one of the first single phase PFC circuit and the second PFC corrected circuit, at least one transformer in communication with at least one of the first single phase PFC circuit and the second PFC corrected circuit via the at least one LC resonant circuit, the at least one transformer configured to generate at least one transformer output signal, and at least one capacitor in communication with the at least one transformer and configured to output at least one magnetron input signal in response to the at least one transformer output signal, and at least one power supply generating at least one three phase input voltage, the at least one circuit board in communication with the at least one power supply.

Verfahren und vorrichtung zur bestimmung der geometrischen daten eines auf einer welle drehbar montierten kraftfahrzeugrades

Verfahren zur befestigung eines reifen an einer felge zum erhalten eines fahrzeugrades und verfahren zur demontage eines reifens von einer felge sowie vorrichtung dafür

System and method of power generation with phase linked solid-state generator modules

A plasma generation system and method includes connected solid state generator modules. The solid state generators can be connected to a shared reference clock to generator an output, and/or can be combined using a phase optimization technique.

Punktweises optisches abtasten der beschaffenheit eines luftreifens eines fahrzeugrades (an radauswuchtmaschine)

Verfahren und vorrichtung zum optischen abtasten eines fahrzeugrades

Verfahren zur abstimmung eines fahrzeugrades

Metodo per distinguere dal rumore ambientale il segnale luminoso utilizzato in un sensore ottico lineare di un goniometro

Process for identifying a specific light signal used in a linear optical sensor of goniometer from among other potentially disturbing light signals

The process of the invention can be used for measuring angles characteristic of wheels of a motor vehicle, in which a light signal is produced by a light beam having a predetermined direction with respect to which an angle to be measured is measured, the angle being formed between the direction of the light beam and a reference axis of the goniometer which reference axis is perpendicular to the linear optical sensor. The linear optical sensor is constituted by a plurality of contiguous and aligned photo-sensitive elements, by means of which elements an image of the light signal can be read. The image is constituted by an ordered totality of intensities of incident radiations recorded on the photo-sensitive elements. Measurement of the angle is a direct function of a distance of the image from an origin for measurement of distances in longitudinal direction, which is defined by an intersection of the reference axis with a longitudinal axis of the sensor. The process comprises: reading of at least two images at known and different times; a comparison between the at least two images; data processing of data which emerges from the comparison by means of a converging process towards a result defining environmental disturbance, making the environmental disturbance distinguishable from the light signal and vice versa.

位相リンクされた固体発電機モジュールを用いた発電システム及び方法

【課題】複数のチャンネルからの固体発電機モジュールの出力が結合されることに関して課題がある。【解決手段】発電システムを用いた発電方法は、複数の固体発電機モジュールで複数の出力を生成すること；及び結合器において、複数のチャンネルからの前記固体発電機モジュールの出力を結合し、位相最適化技術を用いて同相の結合された出力電力を生成することを含む。【選択図】図１

System and method of power generation with phase linked solid-state generator modules

System and method of power generation with phase linked solid-state generator modules

A plasma generation system and method includes connected solid state generator modules. The solid state generators can be connected to a shared reference clock to generator an output, and/or can be combined using a phase optimization technique.

Proceso para identificar una señal luminosa en un goniometro entre otras señales luminosas potencialmente pertubadoras.

Proceso para identificar una señal luminosa usada en un sensor óptico lineal (5) de un goniómetro (3, 4), de un tipo usado para medir ángulos característicos de ruedas de un vehículo de motor, en el cual la señal luminosa (8) se produce mediante un rayo luminoso con una dirección predeterminada con respecto a la cual se mide un ángulo, el ángulo estando formado entre la dirección del rayo luminoso y un eje de referencia (9) del goniómetro el cual eje de referencia es perpendicular al sensor óptico lineal (5), el sensor óptico lineal estando constituido por una pluralidad de elementos fotosensibles (6) contiguos y alineados, por medio de los cuales elementos se puede leer una imagen de señal luminosa, la cual imagen está constituida por la totalidad de intensidades ordenadas de radiaciones incidentes registradas sobre los elementos fotosensibles (6), el ángulo siendo una función directa de una distancia de la imagen desde un origen para medir las distancias en dirección longitudinal, el cualorigen siendo definido por una intersección del eje de referencia (9) con un eje longitudinal del sensor, el proceso además comprendiendo las etapas operativas de: - lectura de al menos dos imágenes en instantes conocidos y diferentes; - comparación entre las al menos dos imágenes; - elaboración de los datos que surgen de dicha comparación; caracterizado por el hecho que la señal luminosa (8) que se origina en el rayo luminoso es intermitente a una primera frecuencia; siendo leída una pluralidad de imágenes a una segunda frecuencia; una de dichas primera frecuencia y segunda frecuencia siendo constante, y la otra siendo variable de manera aleatoria.

Power supply apparatus

A power supply apparatus, comprising at least one circuit board having thereon at least a first single phase power factor controlled (PFC) circuit, and a second PFC corrected circuit, the first single phase PFC circuit and the second PFC corrected circuit each having at least one PFC device in communication with at least one inverter, at least one resonant (LC) circuit positioned on the at least one circuit board and in electrical communication with at least one of the first single phase PFC circuit and the second PFC corrected circuit, at least one transformer in communication with at least one of the first single phase PFC circuit and the second PFC corrected circuit via the at least one LC resonant circuit, the at least one transformer configured to generate at least one transformer output signal, and at least one capacitor in communication with the at least one transformer and configured to output at least one magnetron input signal in response to the at least one transformer output signal, and at least one power supply generating at least one three phase input voltage, the at least one circuit board in communication with the at least one power supply.

Microwave magnetron with constant anodic impedance and systems using the same

A microwave magnetron includes a cathode for emitting electrons, a filament for receiving a filament current to heat the cathode to enable to cathode to emit the electrons, and an anode to which anodic power can be applied to affect a flow of the electrons. An anodic power input receives the anodic power to be applied to the anode, the anodic power being characterized by an anodic current, an anodic voltage, and an anodic impedance, the anodic impedance being a quotient of the anodic voltage and the anodic current. An electromagnet power input receives electromagnet power and applies the electromagnet power to an electromagnet to control an intensity of a magnetic field, the electromagnet power being characterized by an electromagnet current. A controller adjusts at least one of the parameters of the magnetron to affect the flow of electrons while maintaining the anodic impedance constant.

Microwave magnetron with constant anodic impedance and systems using the same

A microwave magnetron includes a cathode for emitting electrons, a filament for receiving a filament current to heat the cathode to enable to cathode to emit the electrons, and an anode to which anodic power can be applied to affect a flow of the electrons. An anodic power input receives the anodic power to be applied to the anode, the anodic power being characterized by an anodic current, an anodic voltage, and an anodic impedance, the anodic impedance being a quotient of the anodic voltage and the anodic current. An electromagnet power input receives electromagnet power and applies the electromagnet power to an electromagnet to control an intensity of a magnetic field, the electromagnet power being characterized by an electromagnet current. A controller adjusts at least one of the parameters of the magnetron to affect the flow of electrons while maintaining the anodic impedance constant.

Verfahren zur Indentifizierung eines spezifischen Lichtsignals in einem Goniometer inmitten anderer möglicherweise störender Lichtsignale

Power supply apparatus

A power supply apparatus, comprising at least one circuit board having thereon at least a first single phase power factor controlled (PEC) circuit, and a second PEC corrected circuit, the first single phase PEC circuit and the second PEC corrected circuit each having at least one PEC device in communication with at least one inverter, at least one resonant (EC) circuit positioned on the at least one circuit board and in electrical communication with at least one of the first single phase PEC circuit and the second PEC corrected circuit, at least one transformer in communication with at least one of the first single phase PEC circuit and the second PEC corrected circuit via the at least one EC resonant circuit, the at least one transformer configured to generate at least one transformer output signal, and at least one capacitor in communication with the at least one transformer and configured to output at least one magnetron input signal in response to the at least one transformer output signal, and at least one power supply generating at least one three phase input voltage, the at least one circuit board in communication with the at least one power supply.

System and method of power generation with phase linked solid-state generator modules

Method for detecting the eccentricity of a tire for vehicle wheels within processes of maintenance of said wheels and apparatus for the maintenance of wheels of vehicles

An apparatus for the maintenance of wheels of vehicles, like a balancer or a device for mounting/dismounting tires, comprises a support adapted to support a rim of a wheel of a vehicle. A device for detecting the eccentricity of a tire of the wheel is mounted on the support. Such device comprises an optical system configured to capture a light beam reflected by a tread of the tire and focus it on a point of an optical sensor. The optical sensor emits a signal indicative of an average value of a radial distance of the linear portion from the main axis. A control unit processes a plurality of average values corresponding to different linear portions of the tread and obtained during the rotation of the tire, and detects the eccentricity of said tire.

Communication system for a tyre service machine and measuring unit for being used with such communication system

The present invention relates to communication system for tyre service machine being configured for receiving tyre and/or rim of vehicle wheel rotatably about rotation axis, the communication system comprising at least one processing unit and at least one measuring unit, at least one measuring unit comprising at least one sensor component for measuring at least one property of wheel, processing component for processing data acquired by at least one sensor component and/or for processing input data received from at least one of at least one processing unit, at least one processing unit and at least one measuring unit each comprising data communication component for receiving data from and/or transmitting data to another data communication component. The data communication component of processing unit and data communication components of at least one measuring unit are arranged for communicating wirelessly with each other in accordance with at least one sensor-independent protocol.

Lifting apparatus for vehicle wheels

A lifting apparatus for a vehicle wheel comprising a wheel support which is selectively movable in order to lift or lower a vehicle wheel which is positioned thereon. An actuator group is connected to the wheel support in order to actuate the lifting and lowering thereof. A control unit is operationally connected to the actuator group in order to control the actuation. A lifting sensor member is provided to detect the height of the wheel support. At least one actuation instruction brings about the actuation of the actuator group in order to lift the wheel support from a lowered rest position to a predetermined lifting position, which is detected by the lifting sensor member.

Wheel service machine with compact sensing device

A wheel service machine and a method for servicing a wheel, such as a tire changer or a wheel balancer for a vehicle wheel, comprises a rotary mounting including a shaft to which the wheel is mounted, a frame work for carrying at least the rotary mounting, and a sensing device mounted to the frame work, for determining geometrical dimensions of the wheel, or parts of the wheel. The sensing device comprises a carrier element and a first sensing unit for sensing the wheel and a computing device for determining the geometrical dimensions of the wheel based on the data received from the sensing device, the first sensing unit being mounted on the carrier element. The wheel service machine further comprises a drive element for enabling a pivotal movement of the sensing device, wherein the drive element is a micro stepper motor.