Abstract: A tire testing apparatus and method for measuring the local stiffness of a tire. The apparatus includes a force producing mechanism, a force measuring device, a force transmitting member, and a measuring device. The force transmitting member applies a force to a tire surface and the measuring device measures the distance of the displacement of the tire surface caused by the force. A tire testing method comprising mounting a tire on a tire testing apparatus to measure a local stiffness of the tire. The method further comprises inflating the tire, applying a force to a local area of the tire, monitoring the force, measuring a distance corresponding to the local deflection, and calculating a local stiffness.

Abstract: A tire testing apparatus and method for measuring the local stiffness of a tire. The apparatus includes a force producing mechanism, a force measuring device, a force transmitting member, and a measuring device. The force transmitting member applies a force to a tire surface and the measuring device measures the distance of the displacement of the tire surface caused by the force. A tire testing method comprising mounting a tire on a tire testing apparatus to measure a local stiffness of the tire. The method further comprises inflating the tire, applying a force to a local area of the tire, monitoring the force, measuring a distance corresponding to the local deflection, and calculating a local stiffness.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for circumferentially measuring tread wear on a tire. A laser probe sequentially scans each of the ribs of a tire, obtaining data respecting the tread depth at various points therealong. This data is employed for each rib to determine heel-to-toe irregular wear of the lugs thereof and to also determine a total wear index indicative of the degree of wear of the lugs. The method and apparatus is also adapted to laterally scan the tire sidewall to obtain data therefrom for the ascertaining of anomalies therein.