Method and apparatus for balancing an article for rotation

Abstract

A method and apparatus of balancing an article provides a visual indication that precisely defines the location of a balance weight that can be secured thereto. A balancing machine rotates the article and is responsive to vibrations for determining the size and location of one or more balance weights that, if secured to the article, will minimize or eliminate these imbalances. The balancing machine then ceases further rotation of the article and generates a first indication of the size of the balance weight that is necessary to counterbalance the sensed imbalance in the article and a second indication when the location on the article at which the balance weight is to be secured is oriented at the top dead center position of the article. At the same time, a light emitter emits a beam of light that causes a narrow line to be illuminated along the top dead center position of the article. As a result, a clear visual indication is provided to the operator of the proper location to secure the balance weight to the article. Lastly, the balance weight is secured to the article.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.