Automated removal and replacement of vehicle wheels and tires
US10773550B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 12, 2020 |
| Grant date | Sep 15, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 12, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB66F7/26
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Systems, methods and apparatus for automated vehicle wheel removal and replacement are provided. One system includes a computer system with applications for scheduling the replacement of tires for the vehicle. An electronically controlled lift device and robotic apparatus is configured for interaction with the computer system. The lift device mechanically adjusts arms for placement on lift points of vehicles. The robotic apparatus detects positioning of lug nut configuration for a wheel, removes lug nuts, and then removes the wheel from the wheel hub with gripping arms. The wheel and tire are then handed off to a separate tire changing machine. When a new tire is replaced the robotic apparatus then mounts the wheel to the original wheel hub, and then secures the lug nuts to the lug nut bolts.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.