Launch KWA-300 User manual

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner
i
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TECH. CO., LTD. (LAUNCH for short) in China and
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Copyright Information
Copyright © 2010 by LAUNCH TECH. CO., LTD. All
rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
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contained herein is designedonly for the use of this unit.
LAUNCH is not responsible for any use of this
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purchaser of this unit or third parties for damages,
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operating and maintenance instructions.
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General Notice
Other product names used herein are for identification
purposes only and may be trademarks of their
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in those marks.

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner
ii
Precautions
zPlease read the User’s Manual and the Installation
and Parts Manual carefully before operating
KWA-300 3D.
zOnly the qualified technician can operate the
WheelAligner.
zThe operator must have knowledge of computer
application and basic theory of wheel alignment.
zThe power voltage of KWA-300 3D is
AC220V±10% 50±1Hz /AC110V±10% 60±1Hz（It
can be customized according to the requirements
of customer）. The 3-terminal socket must be used,
and the earth terminal must be well grounded. If
the power voltage is not stable, please purchase
and useAC voltage stabilizer.
zBefore installing 3D wheel aligner, the lift should be
installed at first according to the requirements.
Regularly check the lift for fastening and leveling,
ensuring the test accuracy and personnel safety;
Take away the roadblocks around the lift to prevent
influencing operation.
zDon’t place KWA-300 3D on a vibrated objector an
oblique surface.Avoid direct sunlight and moisture.
zTurn off the power after operation. Check all bolts
and parts after maintenance, and tighten the
slackened bolts and parts in turn for safety.
zSince computer visual technology is used in
recognizing the targets mounted on the wheels
through the camera with high resolution, it is
necessary to keep KWA-300 3D away from the
outside infrared rays (e.g. sun-lights) from directly
lighting to the targets and reflecting to the cameras.
It is also necessary to avoid blocking the light way
from the targets to the cameras for a long time
during the instrument is working.
zThe targets of KWA-300 3D wheel aligner are the
key components for testing. Do not damage their
structures when using and storing. Keep the
surface of target clean. Please use the soft cloth
dipped with an appropriate amount of the neutral
detergent or the absolute alcohol to wipe the
surface of target lightly if there are some smuts on
it.
zThe wires inside the cabinet and the camera posts
are connected compactly. Don’t move them after
first installation.
zThe precision position calibration has been
performed for the cameras after first installation,
the user can not move or wobble the camera post
during or after using it.
zWithout approval of the supplier, please do not
disassemble the main unit and camera post in
order to avoid damaging the components,
influencing the test accuracy and increasing the
costs and difficulties of maintenance and repair.
For the damage caused by unauthorized
disassembling will not be covered by the Warranty.
zThe fastening method should be selected correctly
and flexibly according to the actual conditions of
the rim, the turning force should be equal when
fastening, after fastening, please check the wheel
clamp again.
zThe force should be equal when using each knob,
please don’t fasten it too tight in order to avoid
damaging the locking mechanism or other parts.
zAfter using, please cut off all power supplytimely.
zThe cameras of KWA-300 3D wheel aligner are the
key optical components for testing. Do not impact
them when using, keep the surface of the camera
lens clean. Please use the lens paper to wipe the
surface of the camera lens lightly if there are some
smuts on it.
General Safety
Instructions
Safety equipment may not be removed and/or
disabled.
Any work on the electrical installation may only
be performed by electricians.
The wheel alignment system may not be
operated in explosion-pronesurroundings.
The operator must provide appropriate fire
protection measures at the measuring platform. In
particular, any flammable or self-combusting items (such
as cloths soaked in solvents or oil) and fluids, or foreign
items and other ignition sources, should not be stored in
the tool trolley.
Warning symbol tags used:
Legend: Pull the power plug before
opening the housing!
Obligation by the operator to be
considerate and avoid negligent acts:
The equipment was designed and constructed with
consideration to required harmonized standards, as well
as additional technical specifications. It therefore
corresponds with the current state of technology and
provides the maximum standard in safety during the
operation.
The machine safety, however, can only be implemented
during the operation, if all of the required steps have

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner
iii
been taken. The operator of the machine has the
obligation to plan these actions and check their
compliance.
The operator must specificallyverify that:
zThe machine is only used according to
specifications.
zThe machine is only operated in perfect
operational condition and that the safety
equipment is routinely inspected as to their
operational condition.
zThe necessary personal safety equipment for
operating, maintenance and repair personnel is
available and being worn.
zThe operating instructions are always in a legible
condition and are completely available at the
machine location.
zThe machine is only operated, maintained and
repaired by qualified and authorized personnel.
zThis personnel is instructed routinely in all
pertaining questions of work safety and
environmental protection, and knows the operating
instructions, especially the safety instructions
contained therein.
zAll safety and warning labels attached to the
machine are not removed and are legible.
Concrete safety
instructions and applied
symbols
Concrete safety instructions are provided in the following
operating instructions which will point out any
unavoidable remaining risks during the machine
operation. These remaining risks contain hazards for:
Persons
Product and machine
The environment
Symbols used in the operating instructions should draw
attention to the safety signs!
This symbol points out that specifically
personal injury risks may be anticipated (Mortal
danger, risk of injuries).
This symbol signifies that especially hazards
for the machine, material and the environment may
be encountered.
The most important objective of the safety signs exists in
the prevention of personal injuries.
If the warning triangle with the wording “danger” is on a
safety notice, hazards for the machine, material and the
environment are not excluded.
If the warning triangle with the wording “caution” is on a
safety reference, personal injuries are not anticipated.
The applied symbol cannot replace the text of the safety
reference. The text must therefore always be completely
read!
Basic safety measures during normal
operations:
The machine may only be operated by trained and
authorized personnel who know the operating
instructions and are capable of working with them!
Prior to switching the machine on, check and verify that:
Only authorized personnel are located within the
working range of the machine.
No one can be injured when the machine is activated!
Check the machine for visible damages prior to use and
verify that it is only operated in perfect condition! Report
any problems immediately to the supervisor!
Prior to each operating start, check and verify that all
safety equipment operates perfectly!
Basic safety measures during service
and maintenance:
Adhere to the inspection and maintenance intervals
specified in the operating instructions!
Block access to the work area of the machine to
unauthorized personnel prior to performing maintenance
or repairs! Attach or set up a warning sign that points out
maintenance or repair work!
Pull the power plug prior to any maintenance or
repair work or switch off the main switch for the power
supply and secure with a lock, if the power supply is
installed.
The key to this lock must be in the hands of the person
that is completing the maintenance or repair work! Only
use perfect load suspension and lifting equipment when
replacing heavy machine parts!
Properly dispose of environmentally
hazardous lubricants, coolants or cleaning agents!

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner
iv
Working on the electrical equipment:
Repairs on electrical equipment of the
machine may only be performed by trained electricians!
Electrical equipment must be routinely inspected!
Re-attach any loose connections!
Immediately replace damaged lines/cables!
Always keep housings of electrical equipment closed!
Access is only permitted for authorized personnel with
key/tools!
Never spray the housing of electrical equipment with a
hose when cleaning!
Observe environmental regulations:
The legal regulations for waste prevention and
proper recycling/disposal must be adhered to for all
operations on and with the machine.
Especially during installation, repair and maintenance
operations, water-polluting materials, such as:
Lubricants and oils - hydraulic oils - coolants.
Solvent-containing cleaning liquids may not pollute the
ground or reach the sewage system!!
These materials must be stored, transported, collected
and disposed of in suitable containers!

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner
v
Table of Contents
Introduction...............................................................1-1
Definition...................................................................1-1
When Is WheelAlignment Required.........................1-1
Main VehicleAlignment Parameter...........................1-1
Toe-in and Toe-out..................................................1-1
Steering axle inclination..........................................1-1
Caster.....................................................................1-2
Toe-out onTurns.....................................................1-2
Thrust angle............................................................1-2
Wheelbase Difference.............................................1-3
Track width Difference............................................1-3
Left (right) lateral offset angle....................................3
Axle offset angle.....................................................1-3
Delay angle.............................................................1-3
Included angle ........................................................1-3
Functions and Features............................................1-3
Specification..............................................................1-4
Requirements on Surroundings................................1-4
Working Principle......................................................1-4
Structures..................................................................2-1
Overall Structures.....................................................2-1
Main Unit...................................................................2-1
Cameras and posts...................................................2-1
Wheel Clamps and Targets.......................................2-2
Communication Cables.............................................2-2
Turntable andTransition Bridge................................2-2
Steering Wheel Holder..............................................2-2
Brake Pedal Depressor.............................................2-3
Basic Operation Procedures....................................3-1
Get Vehicle Information.............................................3-1
WheelAlignment Checking.......................................3-1
Adjustment................................................................3-1
Test-drive..................................................................3-1
Operation Instructions.............................................4-1
Preparation...............................................................4-1
Program Operation...................................................4-1
Standard Measurement..........................................4-1
Select Vehicle Model............................................4-1
Rolling Run-out Compensation.............................4-4
Caster Swing........................................................4-4
Rear axle measurement.......................................4-6
Front axle measurement.......................................4-7
Print Report ..........................................................4-9
Quick Measurement..............................................4-10
Additional Measurement.......................................4-10
System Management............................................4-11
User information.................................................4-11
Client management:............................................4-11
OEM Specs ........................................................4-12
Frequent Model...................................................4-13
System Setting....................................................4-13
Report setting.....................................................4-13
Select Language.................................................4-14
Data Backup and Restore...................................4-14
Log Review.........................................................4-14
Target Monitoring................................................4-15
Camera Calibration.............................................4-15
Print.......................................................................4-16
Help.......................................................................4-16
Exit........................................................................4-16
FrequentlyAsked Questions (FAQ).........................5-1
Industrial Computer CannotStart Up, WithoutAny
Prompts.....................................................................5-1
Computer Cannot Enter Windows XP.......................5-1
Mouse and Keyboard does notRespond..................5-1
Printer does not Respond.........................................5-1
KWA-300 3D Program Does Not Run.......................5-1
Why the blocking tip box does not appear when you
turn the steering wheel and block the rear target?....5-1
When you turn the steering wheel, the tip box appears
in case of the light path has been blocked, how to
handle it? ..................................................................5-1
Why does it have obvious difference between left and
right minimum turning radius after alignment?..........5-1
Maintenance..............................................................6-1
Computer..................................................................6-1
Wheel Clamp and Target...........................................6-1
Printer .......................................................................6-1
Posts and Signal Cables...........................................6-1
Turntables.................................................................6-1

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner Introduction
1-1
Introduction
Thank you for using KWA-300 3D wheel aligner
manufactured by LAUNCH TECH CO., LTD.
Definition
KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner is a precision measurement
instrument designed to measure the wheel alignment
parameters and compare them with the specifications
provided by vehicle manufacturer. It also gives
instructions to the user for performing corresponding
adjustments so as to get the best steering performance
and reduce tire wear.
When Is Wheel Alignment
Required
zThe driver must firmly hold the steering wheel to
maintain a straight-ahead driving.
zAbnormal wear of tires occurred, such as single
side wear, concave-convexity wear and
featheriness wear.
zToo heavy or too light steering, or shaking at
high-speed driving.
zWhen the tire(s), steering joint or shock absorber
are replaced.
zWhen the vehicle is impacted.
zAfter the vehicle has run for the first 3000km or
10000km.
Main Vehicle Alignment
Parameter
The wheel alignment mainly consists of camber, caster,
toe-in, steering axle inclination, toe-out on turns,
wheelbase difference, track width difference, etc. They
are designed mainly to improve the steering
performance and driving stability of the vehicle, and
reduce tire wear.
Toe-in and Toe-out
The toe setting is the amount by which the front or rear
wheels point inwards or outwards at the front of the
wheel in relation to each other(see Fig.1.1).
When the wheels point inwards they are said to toe-in,
toe-in figures are given a positive value. Conversely
when the wheels point outwards they are said to be
toe-out and the figures are shown as a negative value.
Fig.1.1
The purpose of correct toe is to ensure that the wheels
run parallel when the vehicle is driving. An incorrect toe
setting may affect the stability and controllability of the
vehicle.
Camber
Camber is the leaning of the wheel inwards or outwards
from the vertical.
If the road wheel leans outwards from the vertical, it is
said to have positive camber and when leaning inwards
from the vertical - negative camber, looking from the
front or rear of the vehicle. See Fig.1.2.
Fig.1.2
Camber is measured in degrees.
Steering axle inclination
Steering axle inclination (SAI) is the angle of inclination
of the king pin towards the centre-line of the vehicle from
the vertical (see Fig.1.3).

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner Introduction
1-2
Fig.1.3
Correct steering axle inclination can equalize the loads
applied on bearings so that the life of bearings can be
prolonged and the controllability of steering is improved.
Without the inclination, the controllability of the steering
may be affected; further more, the vehicle weight and
the ground counterforce may cause significant stress in
the axle and finally damage the axle.
Correct inclination of king pin is also helpful for the
vehicle to restore its straight-ahead position after
steering.
Steering axle inclination is determined when the vehicle
suspension is designed. It is not service adjustable.
Caster
Caster is the tilting of the kingpin either forwards or
backwards from vertical, as viewed from side of the
vehicle. See Fig.1.4
Fig.1.4
When the king pin is tilted backwards from the vertical,
caster is positive. When the king pin is tilted forwards,
caster is negative.
Caster angle influences the directional stability of the
steering. To increase the tendency of the steering to
self-centre, the steering will normally be designed with
positive caster.
Toe-out on Turns
Toe-out on turns is defined as the difference of the
steering angle between the two front wheels when
turning left or right by 20°as shown in Figure 1.5. The
inner wheel will turn more degrees than the outer wheel
when the vehicle is steered, the difference is usually
about 2°. This angle is designed to reduce steering
resistance.
Fig.1.5
Note: This angle can be tested when a turntable is
equipped for KWA-300 3D.
Thrust angle
The trust angle is defined according to the driven mode
of vehicle.
zRear wheel driven: the thrust angle equals half of
the toe-in difference between the two rear wheels.
As shown in Fig.1.6.
zFront wheel driven: the thrust angle equals half of
the toe-in difference between the two front wheels.
zFour-wheel driven: the thrust angle equals half of
the toe-in difference between the two front wheels
plus half of the toe-in difference between the two
rear wheels.
The trust angle is defined as positive when the trust line
is towards left, and negative when the line is towards
right.
If the thrust angle is not zero, the vehicle will have the
side-moving trend. In this case, adjust the front toe-in of
the drive wheels first, and then adjust the toe-inof driven
wheels.

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner Introduction
1-3
Fig.1.6
Wheelbase Difference
Wheelbase difference is defined as the angle between
the joint line of the centre of two rear wheels and that of
the front wheels. It is positive when distance between
the centre of the right wheels is large than that of left
wheels; and negative otherwise. If the track width is
available from the vehicle specifications, then the
wheelbase difference can be also expressed by angle.
See Fig. 1.7
+
Fig. 1.7
Track width Difference
Track width difference is defined as the angle between
the joint line of the ground-contact point of left wheels
and that of the right wheels. It is positive when distance
between the centre of the rear wheels is large than that
of front wheels; and negative otherwise. If the
wheelbases are available from the vehicle specifications,
then the track width difference can be also expressed by
angle. See Fig. 1.8.
+
Fig. 1.8
Left (right) lateral offset angle
The relative offset in lateral direction between front axle
and rear axle of vehicle is axle offset. When rear wheel
axle is offset to right from the front wheel, the axle offset
is positive, otherwise is negative. The angle between the
bisector of the track width difference angle and the
thrust line is axle offset angle.
Axle offset angle
The relative offset in lateral direction between front and
rear axle of vehicle is axle offset. When LR (RR) wheel
is offset outside from LF (RF) wheel, the left (right)
lateral offset is positive, otherwise is negative. The angle
between the connecting line from the front wheel center
point to the rear wheel center point (same side) and the
thrust line is left (right) lateral offset.
Delay angle
The angle between the connecting line from the LF (LR)
wheel center point to the RF (RR) wheel center point
and the perpendicular of the longitudinal geometry
center line is called front (rear) delay angle. When the
right wheel on the front (rear) axle is behind the left
wheel, the front (rear) delay (angle) is positive,
otherwise is negative.
Included angle
The sum of the SAI (Steering axle inclination) and the
wheel camber is called included angle.
Functions and Features
zComplete test: The KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner
can be used to measure the most wheel alignment
parameters, such as front wheel toe-in, front
wheel camber, caster, steering axle inclination,
maximal steering angle, thrust angle, toe-out on
turns, rear wheel toe-in, rear wheel camber,
wheelbase difference, track width difference, etc.
zBrand new 3D computer vision measurement:

LAUNCH KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner Introduction
1-4
automatically test the aligning angles with high
performance camera.
zPositive targets: there are no electronic
components inside the targets, and no cables
between the targets and the main unit, so the
targets are easy to be fastened on the wheel
clamps.
zProvides many kinds of auto test processes and
diagram operating interfaces, very simple and
clear to operate; the whole test process can be
performed automatically, and there are some
humanity tips on the corresponding interfaces.
zComplete databank: wheel alignment data of over
20,000 vehicle models is stored in the system.
User can also add new data tothe databank.
zAutomatically record the history data, easy for
customer measurement.
zProfuse vehicle adjustment animation and HELP
information.
zProvide real-time help with helpsystem.
zProvide the function of data back-up and
restoration, and of software upgrade.
Specification
Item Resolution Test Range
Total toe-in 2′0~±20º
Camber 2′0~±20º
Caster 4′0~±25º
Steering axle inclination 4′0~±25º
Maximal rim size Depending on the size of the
wheel clamp
Notes:
1. The right of changing the design will be reserved by manufacturer;
2. The above accuracy can be confirmed only when the user follows the specified operation procedures.
Requirements on Surroundings
Item Specification
Ambient temperature 0~+50℃
Relative humidity ≤85%
Light requirement No direct strong lights irradiate the target and reflect to the camera
The height difference between the left rail and
right rail of lift <1mm (left to right); <2mm (front to back)
Working Principle
The working framework of KWA-300 3D Wheel Aligner is as shown in Fig.1.9. The whole system is composed of data
collecting system and data processing system.