Tire changing machine with force detection and control methods

摘要

Tire changing machines including force and position sensors facilitating automated detection of wheel rim and tire features by a controller. Dimensional and location information for features of interest may be detected and recorded for use by the controller to perform tire change procedures. Positioning error and malfunctioning machine components, including feedback sensors, may also be detected in an automated manner.

主权项

1. A tire changer machine for changing a tire on a wheel rim, comprising:
a drive assembly configured to rotate a wheel rim and associated tire about a rotational axis; at least one component configured to engage one of the tire and wheel rim in a tire change procedure; and a control system comprising:
at least one actuator configured to move said at least one component;a first sensor configured to provide a first signal indicative of an amount of force applied to the tire or wheel rim by said at least one component;a second sensor configured to provide a second signal indicative of the position of said at least one component; anda controller configured to:
operate said at least one actuator to move said at least one component toward a first portion of one of the tire and wheel rim;monitor said first sensor to detect a contact force when said at least one component contacts the first portion of at least one of the tire and wheel rim;monitor said second sensor to detect a first position of said at least one component where the contact with the first portion was made; andrecord the first position.