Patent ID: 8276641
Filing Date: 2012-10-02
Classification: B60C

Abstract:
1. Tire-changing machine for fitting and removing vehicle wheels, comprising: a) a base frame for supporting gripping and rotating means for a wheel of a vehicle with a rim and a tire to be fitted/removed; b) an operating head operatively associated with said base frame and having at least a fitting/removal tool; c) operating means for positioning said operating head in a work configuration in which said tool is arranged in contact with said tire substantially near the flange of said rim; d) non-contact detection means for detecting without contact the flange of the rim; e) said non-contact detection means being operatively associated with at least one processing and control unit suitable for the control/aid of said operating means; f) said non-contact detection means including an identification system of the structural light type; g) at least a pattern generator for projecting at least one three dimensional image toward said wheel; and h) at least one detection device for detecting the light generated by reflection by the intersection of said three dimensional image with said wheel.