Multiple row sensing device for a tire
AssigneesCompagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin, Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.
InventorsBradley D. Schober, Frank E. Gramlin, David A. Judd
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A sensor device is provided for use in tire inspection. The sensor device is configured for removable placement along the inner surface of the tire. The sensor device includes multiple rows of sensors, which are used to provide signals that can compensate for the effect of vibrations or mechanical agitation as the sensors are passed over the inner surface of the tire. The sensor device may have a profile that allows for placement of the multiple rows of sensors in close proximity to the inner surface of the tire.
Claims20
A sensor device for tire inspection that is removably positionable along an inner surface of a tire, the tire defining radial, axial, and circumferential directions, the device comprising:
- a body comprising an outermost inspection surface configured for placement along the inner surface of the tire, the outermost inspection surface defining an aperture;
- a plurality of sensors positioned at the aperture, the plurality of sensors arranged linearly along multiple rows that are adjacent to each other;
- and
- a magnet array arranged on the body so that the outer inspection surface and sensors are located between at least a portion of the magnet array and the tire when the sensor device is positioned for tire inspection, the magnet array comprising
- a plurality of magnets having a first end and a second end, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of magnets are arranged into an arc of a circle and configured to partially surround a bead portion of the tire;
- and
- a terminal magnet having at least one end displaced along the longitudinal direction beyond one of the opposing ends of the sensors.
A sensor device for tire inspection that is removably positionable along an inner surface of a tire, the tire defining radial, axial, and circumferential directions, the device comprising:
- a body comprising an outermost inspection surface configured for placement along the inner surface of the tire, the outermost inspection surface defining an aperture;
- a plurality of sensors positioned at within the aperture, the plurality of sensors arranged linearly along multiple rows that are adjacent to each other;
- and
- a magnet array arranged on the body so that the outer inspection surface and sensors are located between at least a portion of the magnet array and the tire when the sensor device is positioned for tire inspection, the magnet array comprising
- a plurality of magnets having a first end and a second end, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of magnets are arranged into an arc of a circle and configured to partially surround a bead portion of the tire;
- a terminal magnet having at least one end displaced along the longitudinal direction beyond one of the opposing ends of the sensors;
- and
- a connecting bar comprising a ferrous metal and extending between the plurality of magnets and the terminal magnet.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.