Abstract: An apparatus and related method for detecting splice gaps and splice overlaps includes a processor having a memory and a plurality of logic tables, wherein the processor is connected to an input/output terminal, a probe, an encoder and a motor which rotates a tire about an axis of rotation. The processor performs several different comparisons upon collected measurement data to reliably ascertain if a sudden change in tire uniformity has occurred. These tests involve comparison of successive data points with one another to determine whether an unacceptable rate of change in the tire uniformity has occurred. If an unacceptable rate of change has occurred, the processor provides such an indication to the input/output terminal.

Abstract: A method is provided for correcting excessive lateral force variations in a pneumatic tire. The method includes the steps of indexing the tire tread into a series of circumferential increments; and obtaining a series of lateral force measurements corresponding to this series of circumferential increments. The maximum value max(1) of the lateral force measurements in a first direction and the maximum value max(2) of the lateral force measurements in a second opposite direction are then determined. This determination is followed by a comparison of each of the lateral force measurements with the max(2) value to determine if it exceeds an acceptable deviation and an independent comparison of each of the lateral force measurements with the max(1) value to determine if it exceeds the acceptable deviation. The acceptable deviation may be a preset constant value.