Vehicle Chassis, Running Gear Or Headlamp Patents (Class 33/288)
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Patent number: 5469628Abstract: An apparatus for measuring on the site of an accident the three-dimensional deformation of a damaged vehicle comprises a reference frame and a distance measuring device. The reference frame comprises a first straight frame portion installed in front of the vehicle parallel to the transversal axis thereof, a second elongated straight frame portion installed on the side of the vehicle parallel to this vehicle's longitudinal axis, and a third elongated straight frame portion installed at the rear of the vehicle parallel to the transversal axis. When the deformation is situated in front of the damaged vehicle, the first frame portion defines a first axis of a three-dimensional coordinate system, the second axis of this coordinate system being located in a vertical plane in which the first elongated frame portion is lying.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1995Date of Patent: November 28, 1995Assignee: Francois ChartrandInventor: Francois Chartrand
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Patent number: 5467255Abstract: The indicating device is adapted to be installed on a platform on a headlamp frame with a slip fit and, once installed, is automatically locked into place. The indicating device includes a bubble level having a vial which is molded integrally with a base adapted to be assembled with a spring metal retaining bracket with a slip fit. The retaining bracket includes cantilevered legs with free end portions which resiliently engage the upper side of the base to enable an adjusting screw to tilt the vial upwardly and downwardly to various positions relative to horizontal.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1994Date of Patent: November 14, 1995Assignee: Elco Industries, Inc.Inventor: Ronald S. Denley
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Patent number: 5450909Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the degree of grade ( slope ) upon which an earth moving machine is operating wherein a movable sighting device is mounted on the machine in such manner that the forces of gravity cause the device to move such that an operator looking at external reference objects may control and confirm the angle of grade ( slope ) of the earth being worked upon.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1993Date of Patent: September 19, 1995Inventor: Robert Stevenson
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Patent number: 5442549Abstract: A diagnostic vehicle alignment system includes an electronic controller for guiding a user through a series of diagnostic steps to determine probable causes for particular vehicle symptoms. Vehicle wheel alignment measuring instruments determine the alignment of at least one wheel of the vehicle. An input device is manually operable by a user for providing symptom identification and answers to diagnostic questions. A digital memory stores a set of possible causes for each selectable symptom and also stores diagnostic questions and an identification of diagnostic procedures. The stored diagnostic questions and procedures are preselected to eliminate possible causes of the selected symptom from consideration. A display is provided for displaying diagnostic questions and procedures to the user.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1993Date of Patent: August 15, 1995Assignee: Hunter Engineering CompanyInventor: Timothy A. Larson
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Patent number: 5438487Abstract: A light device for vehicles has a housing mountable on a vehicle part and a light adjustably received in the housing. The housing is provided with a region which is curved in an adjustment direction of the light and the light abuts against the region. At least one mounting element extends through the housing and fixes the light so that when the mounting element is released, the light is displaceable inside the housing along the curved region, and a control element is arranged outside of the housing and follows an adjusting movement of the light. The control element is provided with indicating means for indicating an orientation of an optical axis of the light.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1993Date of Patent: August 1, 1995Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Heinrich Schmid, Margret S. Von Ohr
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Patent number: 5426500Abstract: In the method for measuring the illuminance of a vehicle lamp according to the present invention, an image of the light emitted from a headlamp and projected onto a screen is picked up for every pixel, by an imaging device, to detect a gradient of each pixel; an illuminance of the light incident upon illuminance sensors disposed in predetermined positions correspondingly to the screen is detected by each of the illuminance sensors; a function or correlation diagram showing the relationship between the illuminances and gradients is generated based on the gradients corresponding to as many illuminances thus obtained as the illuminance sensors; and the function or correlation diagram is used to detect the illuminance at a position on the screen, the position corresponding to the desired pixel.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1994Date of Patent: June 20, 1995Assignee: Chuo Electronic Measurement Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kanji Ohana
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Patent number: 5423127Abstract: A motor vehicle headlamp has a device for generating a headlamp beam, together with a cover glass. A series of projecting elements is provided in the vicinity of the cover glass for location of a beam adjusting apparatus. At least one of these projecting elements is constituted by a portion of a movable member which is displaceable between a first or retracted position and a second position, in which this portion of the movable member occupies a predetermined locating position with respect to the cover glass.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1993Date of Patent: June 13, 1995Assignee: Valeo VisionInventor: Antoine Deslandres
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Patent number: 5414937Abstract: The indicating device includes a bubble level formed by a transparent plastic vial filled with liquid having a gas bubble therein, the bubble coacting with an underlying scale to indicate the degree of tilt of the vial from horizontal. To enhance the visibility of the bubble and enable more accurate readings, portions of the vial are darkened with a strip of black material adapted to be secured to the vial by pressure-sensitive adhesive. A cap for closing the vial is darkened by molding the cap from black-tinted plastic.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 1994Date of Patent: May 16, 1995Assignee: Elco Industries, Inc.Inventor: Ronald S. Denley
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Patent number: 5408391Abstract: The indicating device is adapted to be inserted into a housing on a headlamp frame with a slip fit and, once inserted, is automatically locked into place. The indicating device includes a bubble level having a vial which is molded integrally with a base adapted to be assembled with a spring metal retaining bracket with a slip fit. The retaining bracket coacts with the base to hold the indicating device in the housing and coacts with an adjusting screw to enable the vial to be tilted upwardly and downwardly to various positions relative to horizontal.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1993Date of Patent: April 18, 1995Assignee: Elco Industries, Inc.Inventor: Ronald S. Denley
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Patent number: 5390421Abstract: An elongated alignment bar mounting a level, a datum line pin and a vertical alignment pin has first and second internal conduits therein which slidably conduct independently adjustable flexible suspension chains from respective suspension points through either end of the upper surface of the bar and out respective openings in the middle of the undersurface of the bar. A chain lock secures the chains and provides a fine adjustment feature. A set of gauges features different colored alignment pins and an optional light mounting bracket to enhance alignment operations.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 1993Date of Patent: February 21, 1995Inventor: John T. Richardson
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Patent number: 5392111Abstract: An optical axis of a headlight is measured by disposing a lattice member in front of the headlight. The lattice member has a plurality of longitudinally elongated lattice holes which are arranged in a form of a matrix. An illuminated area and an illuminance of light beams to be transmitted through the lattice member are measured at each of illuminating regions which are divided into a form of a matrix by the lattice holes. The position of a light source of the headlight is located from an illuminating region of maximum illuminated area and a position of an optical axis of the headlight is located from an illuminating region of maximum illuminance. The optical axis is adjusted depending on the located position of the light source and the position of the optical axis such that the inclination angle of the optical axis coincides with a set inclination angle. An illuminance distribution pattern is used to judge the type of headlight during adjustment of the optical axis of the headlight.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1993Date of Patent: February 21, 1995Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Nagatoshi Murata, Watanabe Shinichi, Manabu Tuchida
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Patent number: 5368260Abstract: System for monitoring the angle-of-attack of the wheelsets of a railway vehicle moving along a track section. The apparatus includes a rangefinder to repeatedly measure at known intervals the instanteous distance between a reference point and successive registering points on a face plate surface of a wheel of a passing wheelset. A detector generates a signal representative of the velocity of the wheel passing along the reference point. A computer receives the output signals generated by the velocity sensor and of the rangefinder to compute the angle-of-attack of each wheelset.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1993Date of Patent: November 29, 1994Assignee: Canadian Pacific LimitedInventors: Grigory Izbinsky, Denis D'Aoust
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Patent number: 5367778Abstract: A device for engaging a vehicle chassis has mounted thereon a pair of tandem axles to be aligned perpendicular to frame rails of the chassis and parallel to one another, the device creating the alignments and having first and second spaced apart pairs of laterally spaced towers for engaging the ends of both tandem axles in a manner to maintain them parallel to one another, structure for supporting a rear end of the chassis in fixed position; and structure for moving the front end of the chassis to a predetermined position relative to the towers and being laser directed to position the chassis perpendicular to at least one of the axles.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1993Date of Patent: November 29, 1994Assignee: Navistar International Transportation Corp.Inventor: Douglas J. O'Hara
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Patent number: 5359499Abstract: The reflector of the headlamp is pivotally supported within a housing for vertical tilting about a horizontal axis and for horizontal pivoting about a vertical axis. A bubble level is carried by the reflector and may be adjusted relative thereto to a level position after the reflector has been tilted about the horizontal axis to establish proper vertical aiming of the headlamp beam. A horizontal indicator is located at the same inspection position as the bubble level and may be adjusted to a zero setting after the reflector has been pivoted about the vertical axis to establish proper horizontal aiming of the beam. Part of a mounting platform for the bubble level also serves as part of an indicating scale for the horizontal indicator.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1993Date of Patent: October 25, 1994Assignee: Elco Industries, Inc.Inventor: Ronald S. Denley
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Patent number: 5343628Abstract: A vehicle measuring device used in repairing damaged vehicle bodies includes a cross bar secured to opposing sides of the vehicle, and a tram bar having a first end adapted to be pivotally secured to the center point of the cross bar. The second end of the tram bar includes a probe for contacting various symmetrically-disposed points on either side of the vehicle body. The cross bar is supported by standards bolted to the cowl of the vehicle, the height of each standard being adjustable. The length of the tram bar is also adjustable for reaching different points on the vehicle body. Levels are provided on the cross bar and tram bar to ensure that they are horizontal. Pivot pins are also provided at each standard directly above the cowl bolts for allowing the tram bar to be pivoted therefrom. Misalignment of the vehicle body is detected by swinging the tram bar to probe points on the vehicle body that are normally equidistant from the longitudinal axis of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1992Date of Patent: September 6, 1994Inventor: Arthur E. Ham
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Patent number: 5343372Abstract: A vehicular headlamp assembly with a tilt measuring device of small height, which is difficult to damage, requires a decreased number of parts, and is easy to assemble. The tilt measuring device is interposed between a protruding portion of a horizontal aiming screw protruding rearward of a reference member and the reference member. The tilt measuring device includes a fixed holder fixed to the reference member and covering the protruding portion of the horizontal aiming screw protruding rearward of the reference member, an elongated groove being formed in said fixed holder extending parallel to the horizontal aiming screw. A slidable nut member is received in the fixed holder in such a manner as to be longitudinally slidable relative to the fixed holder. The nut member threadedly engages the protruding portion of the horizontal aiming screw. A portion of the nut member is exposed through the elongated groove of the fixed holder.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1993Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Katutada Shirai, Hideharu Mochizuki, Hironori Tsukamoto
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Patent number: 5341575Abstract: The coordinates of a plurality of datum check points for a vehicle chassis is obtained relative to X, Y and Z coordinates relative to a given horizontal datum plane and/or a vertical datum plane and used primarily to prepare specification drawings for vehicle chassis to be used by body and frame alignment operators to correct collision damage.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1992Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Inventor: Finis L. Chisum
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Patent number: 5335420Abstract: An automatic wheel alignment system for aligning the wheels of an automotive vehicle includes head units adapted for coupling to the wheels of the automotive vehicle and a hand held module. The wheel units provide angle information related to the alignment of the wheels of the automotive vehicle. The hand held module is coupled to the wheel alignment units and provides information to an operator through a liquid crystal display. The hand held module includes a controller and memory means. A keypad input is provided for receiving an input from the operator. The liquid crystal display includes an liquid crystal display matrix for forming an image. A contrast control means is coupled to the liquid crystal display and provides a contrast signal to the liquid crystal display.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1993Date of Patent: August 9, 1994Assignee: SPX CorporationInventors: Michael J. Kling, III, Michael P. Alusick, Gary R. Kercheck, Jeff C. Krueger, Duane M. Schmitz, James L. Visser
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Patent number: 5327655Abstract: A method and apparatus for aligning a vehicle having a frame, and a plurality of wheel hubs, and a suspension system operatively connecting the wheel hubs to the frame is provided. The method and apparatus provide sensors for sensing angular relationships between the wheel hubs and the frame in multiple suspension positions, and a computer connected to the sensors for calculating camber, castor and toe based upon the sensed angular relationship and for displaying whether camber, caster and toe are within preset ranges.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1992Date of Patent: July 12, 1994Assignee: Chrysler CorporationInventors: David M. Buchesky, John Gray, Dara M. Tomczak, Larry Rathgeb
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Patent number: 5315763Abstract: A method of aiming a headlight for a vehicle includes removing a bulb from a headlight, installing an aiming device in the headlight in place of the bulb, and connecting the aiming device to a source of power to produce a laser beam. The method also includes locating the laser beam on an aiming screen placed in front of the vehicle and adjusting the position of the headlight, if necessary, to locate the laser beam at a predetermined position on the aiming screen.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1993Date of Patent: May 31, 1994Assignee: Chrysler CorporationInventor: Philip A. Wing
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Patent number: 5313711Abstract: An automatic wheel alignment system for aligning the wheels of an automotive vehicle includes head units adapted for coupling to the wheels of the automotive vehicle and a hand held module. The wheel units provide angle information related to the alignment of the wheels of the automotive vehicle. The hand held module is coupled to the wheel alignment units and provides information to an operator through a liquid crystal display. The hand held module includes a controller and memory means. A keypad input is provided for receiving an input from the operator. The liquid crystal display includes an liquid crystal display matrix for forming an image. A contrast control means is coupled to the liquid crystal display and provides a contrast signal to the liquid crystal display.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1993Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: Bear Automotive Service Equipment CompanyInventors: Michael J. Kling, III, Michael P. Alusick, Gary R. Kercheck, Jeff C. Krueger, Duane M. Schmitz, James L. Visser
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Patent number: 5291661Abstract: A peephole for a built-in lighting fixture type aiming device. A frame portion projected on an edge portion of an opening portion is formed on the side thereof with an engaging groove, a frame type hook plate is placed in contact with the peripheral edge of a window glass by a spring member and engaged by a hook with the engaging groove provided in the frame portion, and a seal gasket is held by the frame portion and the window glass with the aid of elasticity of the frame type hook plate to provide an airtight construction. The window glass is mounted by the frame type hook plate avoiding the need for a threaded mounting.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1992Date of Patent: March 8, 1994Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasuaki Kaizumi, Shinichi Kojima
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Patent number: 5283956Abstract: A device for indicating the aim, at least in bearing, of the optical axis of the reflector of a motor vehicle headlight relative to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, wherein the device comprises apparatus for establishing a reference direction and suitable for being mounted on a fixed portion of the vehicle to define a reference direction that is well determined relative to the longitudinal axis apparatus. Apparatus is also included for establishing the direction of the optical axis of the reflector and is fixed relative to the reflector and distinct from a surface of the reflector for generating its beam. Finally, an indicator is provided for establishing the position of the optical axis direction relative to the reference direction. Indications thus given by the device enable the reflector to be adjusted after is has been mounted on the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1991Date of Patent: February 8, 1994Assignee: Valeo VisionInventors: Patrice Collot, Charles Wassen, Ghislaine Pinson, Hector Fratty, Jean-Marie Brel, Guy Dorleans, Norbert Brun
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Patent number: 5274433Abstract: A device and method to align the wheels of motor vehicles. A beam of collimated light from a low power visible laser is split into two generally parallel beams by a partially transmitting mirror and a series of plane front surface mirrors positioned in front and along side the vehicle being serviced. The two beams are reflected from a set of plane mirrors attached to the rims of the wheels to be aligned. The vertical and horizontal angles of each of the wheel-mounted mirrors are set by calibrated lead-screws to cancel the angular displacement of the wheels expected when the wheels are properly aligned. The reflected beams are imaged through a large aperture beam combiner on a common viewing screen. Correct toe-in and camber settings are indicated when the laser beams reflected from the wheel-mounted mirrors overlap at the center of the viewing screen.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1992Date of Patent: December 28, 1993Assignee: MiradcoInventors: John M. J. Madey, Julius M. J. Madey
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Patent number: 5268731Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheel alignment measuring apparatus which measures the toe-in length or angle and camber angle of each tire (17) of a car.The wheel alignment measuring apparatus can be used to measure the distances to various points on the surface of the tire (17) by means of the light of a predetermined wavelength emitted from the light-emitting means (4) and to determine the toe-in angle or length and camber angle of the tire (17) based on the measured distances. In other words, such measurement can be done without any contact with the tire (17) under inspection, thus it is possible to prevent any trouble which would occur when such measurement is done in contact with the tire, such as error caused by the oscillation or the like of the tire (17).Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1992Date of Patent: December 7, 1993Assignee: Chuo Electronic Measurement Co., Ltd.Inventors: Motoaki Fuchiwaki, Toshiyuki Kaya
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Patent number: 5251013Abstract: Apparatus and methods for determining the deformation of a vehicle body comprising coded targets including coded reflective surfaces positioned in predetermined locations relative to the vehicle body for indicating deformation of the body by determining the spatial position of the targets, a laser generating unit positioned for sweeping a laser beam across the reflective surfaces of the targets, a receiver for receiving the reflected beam, and computer-based, electronic equipment and logic responsive to the receiver for indicating the spatial position of the target means relative to a predetermined normal position with respect to the vehicle body. Apparatus also for determining two and three dimensional spatial coordinates of objects from each other and from a base, utilizing the foregoing components. Additional apparatus comprising portions of the foregoing.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 1990Date of Patent: October 5, 1993Inventors: Glen C. Danielson, Thomas M. Westhoff
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Patent number: 5243766Abstract: A vehicle wheel alignment measurement system includes four infra-red emitter-detector units fixed by clamps to the vehicle wheels. Each unit includes a beacon and a rotatable detector coaxial with the beacon and driven by a motor. Angular rotation of the detector is sensed and signals from the four units are analyzed by a signal processing computer to give absolute position and relative angular measurements of the four wheels.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1992Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Assignee: V. L. Churchill Ltd.Inventors: Christopher M. Marley, David Pink
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Patent number: 5245555Abstract: A system for measuring coordinates of a vector in x,y,z Cartesian space includes a flexible non-elastic string spirally mounted upon a selectably positively and negatively rotatably tensioned drum, the drum having an axle of rotation and being positively rotatable as a function of positive increments of length of the string. Mounted co-integrally with the drum axle is a translational measurement encoder for converting rotation of the drum axle into a signal output corresponding to positive increments of extension of length of the string. Further provided is an assembly for defining an origin of the vector to be measured, the assembly including an origin member having an aperture therein for slidable accommodation of the string.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1990Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Inventors: Jose I. Vilches, Hector Vilches
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Patent number: 5220399Abstract: A wheel alignment system is disclosed which measures the angles between the planes of the wheels on the same side, at the front and diagonally opposite on a four wheel vehicle. The measurements are processed to provide wheel toe, relative wheel plane orientation, front wheel offset and front and rear wheel setback relative to the vehicle frame to assist in damage assessment.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1991Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Inventors: Donald J. Christian, James L. Dale, Jr., Steven W. Rogers
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Patent number: 5208646Abstract: The disclosure herein relates to an alignment system and method which provides improved accuracy measurement of vehicle wheel alignment characteristics, guidance for an operator through known yet obscure adjustment procedures, an interface between system alignment sensors and the system controller which provides efficient handling of system generated data and system inputs and outputs, and live measurements and display of all alignment quantities so that interdependent changes between adjustable alignment quantities are observable.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1991Date of Patent: May 4, 1993Assignee: FMC CorporationInventors: Steven W. Rogers, James L. Dale, Jr., Hanford D. Monroe, Carl W. Pruitt, Sherman Paul
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Patent number: 5207002Abstract: A method and system for use in the checking and/or correction of alignment of a vehicle frame, body and various parts thereof which utilize an energy beam generator to direct one or more beams, such as a laser beam, at multiple targets which may be mounted on the vehicle frame, body or specific parts thereof, to establish a horizontal reference centerline and a vertical reference datum line from and/or to which alignment measurements may be made. Such method and system are enhanced by the use of either a unidirectional or sweeping beam to establish a centerline and a sweeping beam to establish a datum line. The beam generating means and targets preferably are located within the confines of a vehicle frame or body with the centerline defining beam and target being centered between undamaged portions of the same vehicle parts from which or to which measurements are to be made.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1992Date of Patent: May 4, 1993Inventor: Steven V. Humblet
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Patent number: 5206720Abstract: A system and technique for monitoring the positions of the lateral edges of tire components during a tire building operation. Fluorescent lamps are positioned on opposite sides of the tire building drum to orthogonally impinge light onto the vertical cut edges of the tire components. The cut ply cords exposed at these vertical edges reflect the light to a camera having a portion of the tire building drum and the ply laminate within its field of view. The camera is controlled to obtain pairs of data windows, one on each side of the belt laminate, at fixed and spaced intervals along the circumference of the laminate. A mosaic is then generated from these data windows to illustrate the amount of walking, snaking, or centering of the tire building components during the manufacturing process.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1991Date of Patent: April 27, 1993Assignee: Bridgestone CorporationInventors: John D. Clothiaux, Sheldon Smilo
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Patent number: 5182864Abstract: A car frame measuring apparatus is disclosed, which has a three-dimensional measurement assembly comprising a pair of x-axis units, a y-axis unit mounted for longitudinal movement on the x-axis units and having a center piece provided at the center, a pair of z-axis unit bases mounted for transversal movement on the y-axis unit, z-axis unit holders each mounted on each z-axis unit base and provided with a z-axis unit capable of being extended by a spring, and a center piece having each end coupled by a chain to each z-axis unit. The opposite side z-axis units can be made to be at an equal distance from the center of the y-axis unit by aligning the last mentioned center piece and the center piece on the y-axis unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1991Date of Patent: February 2, 1993Inventor: Ryuzo Yamashita
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Patent number: 5177558Abstract: A wheel alignment apparatus (10) for measuring the toe angles of the wheels (42) of a vehicle such that the wheels (42) may be properly aligned, including vehicles whose rear axle (20) and front axle (22) are of unequal lengths. The wheel alignment apparatus (10) of the present invention includes at least one light beam source (14) for emitting a beam of light (24) toward a photosensor (12). The light beam (24) produces currents at each end of the photosensor (12), the currents then being measured and processed by a signal processor (16) to determine the impinging angle of the light beam (24). Each of the light beam sources (14) and the photosensors (12) are attached to the respective wheels (42) with connecting apparatuses, or heads (18). The photosensor (12) is a lateral photocell for receiving at least a portion of the emitted light beam (24) on a continuous active area (30). The signal processor (16) includes an Analog-to-Digital (A-D) converter (94) for data analysis and storage.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1991Date of Patent: January 5, 1993Inventor: Jerry M. Hill
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Patent number: 5168632Abstract: An automobile wheel alignment method and apparatus are provided for duplicating the pre-determined readings for the parameters of camber, caster, and toe, and allowing for the precise adjustment of such parameters at a location remote from the conventional alignment machine. First, second, and third indicators are provided, along with a gauge element, for duplicating the readings for camber, caster, and toe. Also provided are a housing for containing the indicators, and mounting means for removably securing the housing to a hub assembly after the wheel has been removed.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1992Date of Patent: December 8, 1992Inventor: Charles H. Rimlinger, Jr.
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Patent number: 5140503Abstract: A headlamp aiming and leveling apparatus includes a level member having a housing and an indicating device for indicating the condition of the housing relative to a level condition and located within the housing, at least a portion of the housing being transparent to permit viewing of the indicating device therewithin. An adjustment member is operatively coupled to the housing for adjusting the position thereof, and thereby adjusting the indication given by the indicating device. A retaining clip mounts the level member to a headlamp. The retaining clip includes a locking portion for engaging the housing, a retaining portion for retaining the retaining clip in assembled relation with the headlamp, and a cooperating adjustment portion for cooperating with the adjustment member to achieve adjustment of the indicating device so as to indicate a level position when the associated headlamp is in a desired level condition.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1990Date of Patent: August 18, 1992Assignee: Textron Inc.Inventor: Stephen P. Lisak
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Patent number: 5138533Abstract: The device for testing angular inclination of a headlight (11) has a inclination-detecting device (14) structured as a bubble level connected with the reflector (13) of each headlight and an additional inclination-detecting device (20), which is mounted on the chassis of the motor vehicle. The inclination-detecting device (14) of the headlight indicates the deviation of the reflector (13) from horizontal. The additional inclination-detecting device (20) indicates the inclination of the motor vehicle in a vertical plane (22). To test the inclination or orientation of the reflector from a set value, the reading of the inclinaiton-detecting device (14) is compared with the reading of the additional inclination-detecting device (20). The inclination of the reflector (13) is correct, when, preferably, the inclination-detecting device (14) on the reflector indicates the same deviation from horizontal as the additional inclination-detecting device (20).Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1991Date of Patent: August 11, 1992Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Hans Daumueller
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Patent number: 5138542Abstract: A headlamp for a power vehicle having a chassis comprises a reflector mounted on the chassis and turnable in a horizontal direction for adjusting a direction of light bundle produced by the reflector, reference markings arranged on a chassis part for marking a predetermined position of the reflector, and markings showing a position of the reflector relative to the reference markings, the markings being provided on an upper side of the headlamp in its lateral end regions, the chassis part extending at least partially through the headlamp, and the chassis part having two openings through which the markings can be observed from a side of the headlamp respectively.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1990Date of Patent: August 11, 1992Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Hans Daumueller, Karl-Otto Dobler, Heinz Ruckwied, Friedrich Schauwecker
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Patent number: 5125164Abstract: A portable apparatus for aligning the axles of a tractor, a trailer, or other vehicle and for detecting bends, bows, twists amd other irregularities in vehicle frames, has a light source used to provide a reference plane from which measurements can be taken. Dual targets are attached to the underside of the vehicle frame and are used in conjunction with the light source to establish the reference plane. The light source is slidably arranged on a U-shaped frame and is positionable to project a light beam at the targets. The U-shaped frame is directly attached along the center axis of the wheel axle so that the horizontal bar on which a light support is arranged with be parallel to the wheel axle and thus provide an accurate measurement of missalignment. The U-shaped frame and dual targets are provided with features which allow both to be leveled easily. Rollers are provided on the leveling supports of the U-shaped frame to facilitate movement of the frame along the underlying surface as the axle is aligned.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1990Date of Patent: June 30, 1992Assignee: Axle-Tru, Inc.Inventors: Jerald C. Fournier, Joseph B. Casebere
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Patent number: 5118185Abstract: Optical transceiver apparatus for detecting angular misalignment between a pylon and fuselage of a helicopter, includes an optical transmitter secured to one of the pylon and fuselage and which transmits three spaced optical beams; an optical receiver which receives the optical beams from each optical transmitter, the optical receiver being mounted on another one of the pylon and fuselage, the optical receiver including a two linear detectors which detects angular twist between the pylon and fuselage from a null position in response to two of the optical beams, substantially irrespective of the distance between the pylon and fuselage, and a radially variable detector which detects elevation and azimuth changes of the pylon with respect to the fuselage from a null position in response to the third of the optical beams, substantially irrespective of the distance between the pylon and fuselage.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1990Date of Patent: June 2, 1992Assignee: DRS/Photronics CorporationInventor: Henry C. Courten
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Patent number: 5111585Abstract: A method of measuring and adjusting the wheel alignment of an automotive vehicle comprises bringing all of the four tires in condition for actual on-road running performance, restricting axial movement of both of the front tires alone, measuring the toe-in angles of the front and rear tires and adjusting the toe-in angle of each of the rear tires to the specification whereby the center line of an alignment adjusting apparatus is brought into alignment or parallel relation to the center line or axis of the vehicle. An apparatus is also disclosed for reducing this method to practice.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1990Date of Patent: May 12, 1992Assignees: Iyasaka Seiki Co., Ltd., Mazda Motor CorporationInventors: Tsunenori Kawashima, Morihiro Shimada, Hiroshi Fujii
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Patent number: 5078490Abstract: A system and method for checking the aim of the high and low beams of a vehicle headlamp are provided. The system comprises a vehicle position locator adapted to be centered under the vehicle, and a target screen located at a predetermined distance from the headlamp of a vehicle centered on the locator. A laser/prism subassembly is mounted to the locator for lateral and vertical movement relative to the vehicle. The prism directs the laser beam toward the headlamp when it is positioned in front of the laser. A plurality of photosensors on the target screen sense the intensity of a light beam from the headlamp, and meters on the target screen indicate comparisons of the levels of intensity of portions of the beam sensed by the individual photosensors.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1991Date of Patent: January 7, 1992Assignee: Hopkins Manufacturing CorporationInventors: William E. Oldweiler, Wesley E. Bowden, Gregory A. Yotz
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Patent number: 5068769Abstract: A horizontal sighting apparatus for head lamps, in which an index portion having an index moved by adjusting an adjusting screw is brought into engagement with the adjusting screw. A mating-index portion having a mating-index is provided on the lamp housing at a position confronting the index portion. The index portion and the mating-index portion are capable of being aligned with each other irrespective of an adjustment amount of the adjusting screw.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 1990Date of Patent: November 26, 1991Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toru Umeda, Hidetaka Kondo, Kouichi Kato
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Patent number: 5058286Abstract: A measuring platform system is utilized to measure the extent of damaged or misaligned vehicle frames or bodies to expedite the repair thereof. The platform becomes the measuring datum plane from which all measurements as to the pre and post repair locus of a particular reference point on the vehicle are taken as to height above the datum plane and distance from a longitudinal centerline of the datum plane. Means are provided as a part of the platform system to raise the vehicle and move same to a position where the longitudinal vertical plane through the centerline of the vehicle intersects the centerline of the datum plane. A computer can be used as a part of the system.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1989Date of Patent: October 22, 1991Inventor: Finis L. Chisum
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Patent number: 5056233Abstract: A wheel alignment system uses head units attached to each of the four wheels of an automotive vehicle. Angle measurements are taken using light sources and light sensors. Pitch sensors measure the pitch of the head units with respect to a horizontal plane. The head units are connected to the left and right front wheels of the automotive vehicle. The pitch information is used to compensate for errors in left and right cross-toe measurements between the left and right front wheels of the automotive vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1990Date of Patent: October 15, 1991Assignee: Bear Automotive Service Equipment CompanyInventors: Dennis L. Hechel, Peter A. Puetz, Gary R. Kercheck
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Patent number: 5056916Abstract: An optical axis adjusting system comprises at least one lighting unit such as a vehicle's head lamp unit, and at least one optical instrument. The lighting unit comprises a housing having a reflector, and a lens having first and second portions which are positioned so that the first and second portions intersect, respectively, imaginery first and second straight lines that are parallel to the optical axis of the lighting unit and symmetrical with respect to the optical axis. The optical instrument has a light projecting unit for projecting a light beam such as a laser beam to the reflector through the first portion of the lens, and a light receiving unit for receiving a reflected beam reflected from the reflector and transmitted through the second portion of the lens. The lighting unit has at least one adjusting screw by which the aim of the lighting unit is adjusted so that reflected beam is correctly received by the receiving unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1990Date of Patent: October 15, 1991Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoichi Kikuchi, Miyoshi Iwamoto
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Patent number: 5054918Abstract: A structured light scanning system observes, interprets and provides structural feature size, position and movement data in automotive service equipment applications where such feature characteristics must be determined either preliminary to or ultimately for measurement of quantities affecting automotive performance, such as tire/rim assembly balance, runout and alignment or brake surface planarity and smoothness.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1990Date of Patent: October 8, 1991Assignee: FMC CorporationInventors: Elizabeth A. Downing, Steven W. Rogers, Raymond Titsworth, Donald J. Christian, Michael L. Baird
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Patent number: 5055980Abstract: An automobile headlamp wherein a level for measuring the tilt of the illumination angle of the headlamp in the up/down direction is attached to a horizontally extending portion of a socket fixture attached in a bulb insertion hole of a tiltable reflector or lamp body so as to extend toward the back of the lamp. The conventionally required level-mounting space on the upper portion of the headlamp is therefor not required, and hence the height of lamp in the up/down direction can be reduced and the headlamp made thin.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1991Date of Patent: October 8, 1991Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hideharu Mochizuki
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Patent number: 5054207Abstract: A mobile vehicle measuring device for the measuring of a vehicle, such as a race car, from certain reference points such as the bottom side of the vehicle instead of the driving surface. The apparatus comprises a level support platform with adjustable wheel plates to center the vehicle, a movable lift gauge rack to provide reference points for various measuring gauges, a vehicle loading device, a vehicle load measuring device and various preset measuring gauges cooperating with the lift gauge rack to check efficiently all pertinent measurements with which the vehicle must comply.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1989Date of Patent: October 8, 1991Assignee: Race Spec, Inc.Inventor: D. Ray Marshall
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Patent number: 5048954Abstract: A device and method to align the wheels of motor vehicles. A beam of collimated light from a low power visible laser is split into two generally parallel beams by a partially transmitting mirror and a series of plane front surface mirrors positioned in front and along side the vehicle being serviced. The two beams are reflected from a set of plane mirrors attached to the rims of the wheels to be aligned. The vertical and horizontal angles of each of the wheel-mounted mirrors are set by calibrated lead-screws to cancel the angular displacement of the wheels expected when the wheels are properly aligned. The reflected beams are imaged through a large aperture beam combiner on a common viewing screen. Correct toe-in and camber settings are indicated when the laser beams reflected from the wheel-mounted mirrors overlap at the center of the viewing screen.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1989Date of Patent: September 17, 1991Assignee: MiradcoInventors: John M. J. Madey, Julius M. J. Madey