| 4JET Technologies, Trade Shows, Laser Tire Marking 4JET launches innovations at TIRE Expo
New T-Sort system allows reading DOT codes and Erstreifenkontrolle – On the way to zero-defect production
4JET Technologies GmbH will launch a new solution for the automated recognition of information molded on tire sidewalls on this year’s TIRE Expo. A laser based sensor process captures over 1 million distance measurements on the tire sidewall.
The data is converted into an image that is then processed by a powerful algorithm to look for specific alphanumeric or graphic content. In a matter of seconds it is possible to capture information even from slightly deformed or oily surfaces. Even intricate and small font sizes can be read.
The system addresses two tasks in tire manufacturing and logistics:
First Tire Check
After every change of a tire mold or its mold inserts (“slugs”) a complete inspection of the sidewall is required to assure the completeness and accuracy of the information. Today this manual process is labor intensive and error prone. Shipping mismarked tires can eventually lead to an expensive recall. The use of T-Sort allows to automate the inspection process and also enables to increase its frequency.
Logistics und Traceability
Another challenge tackled by T-Sort is automated recognition of DOT codes. These mandatory codes detailing a tires origin and type are used for sorting tires in tire/wheel and wheel/vehicle assembly operations. Also in this application T-Sort provides advantages through automation.
Systems
The T-Sort hardware is based on a rugged platform that is proven in dozens of tire laser engraving installations. Combination systems including a laser marking option for serial codes, QR codes or other information are available. Short image capturing and processing times and the very compact line footprint allow integration into existing material flow systems. Versions for PCR and TBR tires are available.
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