Laser tire code reader targets zero defects

Alsdorf, Germany -  Every change of a tire mould or its mould inserts requires a complete inspection of the sidewall to assure the completeness and accuracy of the moulded-in information – a labour-intensive process that is error-prone and can lead to costly recalls, notes 4JET Technologies, which is set to unveil a technology to overcome these issues.

The Alsdorf-based company T-Sort laser-based sensor system can automatically recognise information on tires: capturing over 1 million distance measurements moulded on the tire sidewall

The data is converted into an image and processed by a powerful algorithm that can, in seconds, identify problems such as slight deformations or oily surfaces. Even intricate and small font sizes can be read.

The technology allows to automate the inspection process and also enables to increase its frequency, said 4JET, which will launch the system at  this year’s Tire Expo 2015

Another challenge tackled by T-Sort is automated recognition of DOT codes that detail the origin and are used for sorting tires in tire/wheel and wheel/vehicle assembly operations.

Combination systems including a laser-marking option for serial codes, QR codes or other information are available, according to 4JET.

Versions for PCR and TBR tires are available, the German laser systems company added.