Hein-werner Corporation

Robert L Donahue

Harold F Hamilton

A vehicle alignment system uses transverse, longitudinal and vertical bars mounted on a vehicle and equating to X, Y and Z axes for establishing the dimensions of the vehicle, which dimensions are then compared to the vehicle engineering specifications. The transverse bars are connected to the underside of the vehicle and, to enable quickness and ease of transferring the alignment system between vehicles, quick connect fittings extend between the transverse and longitudinal bars. Additional supports extend between the longitudinal bars and a base surface. The system is arranged so that transverse bars in a path of entry and exit of the vehicle can be readily removed and the vehicle removed and replaced, while maintaining the alignment system substantially set up and ready for use. The process improves the speed of use of the system by substantially alleviating the dismantling previously required.

Drive-in, drive-out vehicle alignment system

A hole gauge arrangement is used for determining the distance of a vehicle fixture hole from a datum plane established with respect to the vehicle. The hole gauge arrangement includes a set rod with a die wheel having bores corresponding to the various sizes of fixture holes and also includes a measurement rod. By reference to a table, the desired distance from the datum plane to the fixture hole is established on the set rod and the measurement rod matched to the distance of the set rod and the hole diameter. The measurement rod is then transferred to support structure mounted in the datum plane and the distance difference, if any, between the measurement rod tip and the fixture hole is noted as an indication of dislocation.

Hole gauge

An apparatus and method for determining the proper position of misaligned vehicle parts utilizes an X, Y and Z coordinate system to provide a proper point of position, or alignment, of vehicle parts which are identified in tables by such coordinates. The apparatus includes a framework which is established about the vehicle by transverse bars, datum plane bars, cross bars and a vertical standard, all with scale indicia, and forming a point of origin as on a graph. Lasers emitting planes of visible light are mounted on the datum plane bars and cross bar and project mutually perpendicular, intersecting planes of light. A laser is also mounted on the standard to project a horizontal plane of light that intersects the other two light planes and establishes a point capable of definition by X, Y and Z coordinates. The lasers are adjusted on the bars and standard to the measurements set forth in the table of coordinates and the error noted between the intersection point established by the X, Y and Z coordinates and the actual position of the misaligned part. Bending forces are applied to the frame area, or removal and replacement of parts is accomplished to correct the mispositioning or misalignment.

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McPherson, KS, United States of America

Robert L Donahue