Patent ID: 7702126
Filing Date: 2010-04-20
Classification: B66F

Abstract:
1. A method for determining a surface orientation of a runway of a vehicle lift having a pair of runways, using a machine vision vehicle wheel alignment system configured to acquire position and orientation data associated with at least one optical target disposed in a field of view, comprising: establishing a reference plane for the pair of runways; disposing an optical target in at least one predetermined relationship to an upper surface of the runway of the vehicle lift; acquiring at least one image of said optical target; determining a position and orientation of said optical target from said at least one acquired image; utilizing said established reference plane, said at least one predetermined relationship, and said determined position and orientation of said optical target, to identify an initial orientation of said upper surface of the runway relative to said established reference plane; and wherein said initial orientation is a measurement of a deformation of said upper surface of the runway at the location of said optical target by twisting or flexing relative to said established reference plane.