초록 ▼

A device and methods to measure the wheel alignment, to measure the position and orientation of the wheels in relation to the chassis, to measure the chassis and body and to measure parameters of vehicles for problem diagnosis. A beam of colliminated light is directed along a latitudinal reference l

A device and methods to measure the wheel alignment, to measure the position and orientation of the wheels in relation to the chassis, to measure the chassis and body and to measure parameters of vehicles for problem diagnosis. A beam of colliminated light is directed along a latitudinal reference line. The angle and distance relationship of the wheels to this line are measured. A light beam perpendicular to the latitudinal reference light beam is directed longitudinal to the vehicle. The latitudinal light beam and the longitudinal light beams form a rectangular grid system from which the position of vehicle chassis parts can be measured. A method to calculate and compensate for the errors in the measurement system is used with gravity sensors to more accurately calculate toe, camber and tilt. These angular relations provide toe relative the chassis, camber, caster, s.a.i. and included angle. Also, offset and setback of the front and rear wheels relative to the chassis are provided. A fan of light is used to generate horizontal and vertical datum planes from which additional distance measurements locate vehicle parts. Diagnostic procedures using angular variation, maximum and minimum change of angle, the relation of the change of tilt and the change of toe angles, acceleration and frequency of angular variation of the wheel and frequency of sound during bouncing in addition to the chassis measurements detect and measure vehicle problems.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for wheel alignment of a vehicle having a chassis, said apparatus comprising:a first gauge element adapted in use to be mounted to a first reference point on the chassis of the vehicle;a second gauge element adapted in use to be mounted to a second reference

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for wheel alignment of a vehicle having a chassis, said apparatus comprising:a first gauge element adapted in use to be mounted to a first reference point on the chassis of the vehicle;a second gauge element adapted in use to be mounted to a second reference point on the chassis of the vehicle; andmeans, adapted in use to be mounted to a wheel of the vehicle, for generating a first light beam, for directing said first light beam through said first and second gauge elements, and for indicating an angle of the first light beam relative to said wheel.