Automatic detection of tyre DOT numbers

The identityCONTROL TID 8303.I measurement system is based on structured light projection and detects the tyre type on the conveyor belt during production.

Micro-Epsilon: All tyres produced globally must be given a tyre identification number (TIN) by the manufacturer. This type number was introduced by the US Department of Transportation (DOT), which is why it is often referred to as a DOT code or DOT number. The series of numbers is branded on the sidewall of the tyre and indicates factory location, tyre size, type, and week of manufacture. To facilitate automated tyre mounting on rims and feeding pre-assembled vehicle tyres for automotive assembly (including logging and documentation) automatic detection is a necessity. But to meet this prerequisite within the required cycle time is technically challenging.

With identityCONTROL TID 8303.I, Micro-Epsilon now offers a new system that detects DOT number and tyre type. A short stop on the conveyor belt is all that’s required. TID 8303.I is based on structured light projection. Unlike conventional systems, this new design does not require any additional electromechanical components in order to index or turn the tyre, which makes it a wear-free, user-friendly and cost-effective solution. It is very easy to teach identityCONTROL TID 8303.I new types of tyre, which are managed by a database.

In addition to tyre-related applications, Micro-Epsilon uses structured light projection for 3D surface inspection of diffuse reflecting materials, such as plastics, metals or ceramics.