초록 ▼

A system is disclosed for detecting potential defects as evidenced by surface irregularities in the sidewalls of a tire to be tested. A test is performed on a “uniformity machine”programmed to run standard tire tests. The system preferably utilizes a pair of oppositely disposed non-contact probes, m

A system is disclosed for detecting potential defects as evidenced by surface irregularities in the sidewalls of a tire to be tested. A test is performed on a “uniformity machine”programmed to run standard tire tests. The system preferably utilizes a pair of oppositely disposed non-contact probes, means for distinguishing between ‘noise’and a desired signal, means for analyzing and identifying the signal, means for determining whether the identified signal falls within a preselected range, and means for identifying a tire having acceptable or unacceptable bumps and/or depressions. A tire is deemed acceptable when it qualifies within preselected limits for bumps and/or depressions, and unacceptable if it does not so qualify.

대표청구항 ▼

An apparatus for automatically inspecting a pneumatic tire for broken cords and ply separation evidenced by superficial bumps/depressions in sidewalls of said tire, comprising in combination: a tire testing machine for rotatably retaining said tire in an inspecting position; rotational driving means

An apparatus for automatically inspecting a pneumatic tire for broken cords and ply separation evidenced by superficial bumps/depressions in sidewalls of said tire, comprising in combination: a tire testing machine for rotatably retaining said tire in an inspecting position; rotational driving means for rotatingly driving said tire at a preselected speed; at least one non-contact capacitance probe for sensing bumps/depressions in said sidewalls\s surface and transmitting signals corresponding to said bumps/depressions sensed, said probe being disposed in spaced apart sensing relationship with said sidewall; electric control circuit means connected to said probe for producing a disqualifying signal including (a) amplifier means for amplifying signals from said probe within a preselected range, (b) filter means effective to produce a band pass of about 2 Hz to about 50 Hz, so as to diminish extraneous ‘noise,’ (c) scalar means adapted to provide a usable wave form, (d) analog to digital converter means responsive to said signals in digital form, (e) computer means responsive to said signals in digital form, including (i) means for taking a running average including means for indicating the width and amplitude of a bump/depression which is unacceptable, and means for adjusting the amplitude and frequency of the bump/depression limits to detect bumps/depressions sufficient to cause said tire to be deemed unacceptable; (ii) means to produce a disqualifying signal, and, classifying means for distinguishing a disqualified tire from qualified tires.