Patent ID: 6092295
Filing Date: 2000-07-25
Classification: B29C,B29D,G01B

Abstract:
An apparatus to measure the thickness of rubber overlaying the belt of an associated tire, the apparatus comprising first sensing means for sensing the thickness of rubber overlaying the belt of the tire, sensor holding means for holding said first sensor, positioning means for positioning said sensing means, and supporting means for supporting said first sensing means and said positioning means, the apparatus being characterized by:self-aligning means for self-aligning said first sensing means, the self-aligning means including a rod having first and second ends, said first end of said rod being fixedly connected to said supporting means; rotating attachment means fixedly attached to said sensor holding means and rotatably attached to said second end of said rod to permit free rotation of said sensor holding means about said rod; and first and second rollers fixedly connected to said sensor holding means, the first and second rollers being free-rolling.