Hunter adds 'touchless' version of Quick Check inspection system

BRIDGETON, Mo. — Hunter Engineering Co. has developed a "touchless" version of its Quick Check vehicle inspection system that provides alignment and other readings in a matter of seconds with no human interaction necessary.

The revised system, called Quick Check Drive, uses four cameras and 16 laser sensors that scan a vehicle's wheels as the vehicle drives past them, measuring camber and total toe in seconds while providing "unmatched" accuracy and repeatability on every vehicle it inspects.

The system replaces the drive-over optical scanner, allowing the process to be sped up to scanning a vehicle every three to five seconds, making it possible for a shop with the system to check every car that visits, Hunter said.

As such, the Quick Check Drive is not able to provide a tire tread analysis, the company said.

However, Hunter said the new system can be used in conjunction with the Quick Tread tread-depth analysis system, which could be installed separately in the same lane. The new system is designed work optimally in businesses that have drive-through check-in/inspection lanes.

In launching Quick Check Drive, Hunter notes that its research shows nearly 60 percent of vehicles on the road are in need of alignment, which the Bridgeton-based company said is the most profitable service in dealerships and service facilities.

In addition to providing toe and camber readings, Quick Check Drive incorporates a vehicle identification system that captures front and rear license plates on each vehicle and provides a license plate-to-VIN conversion as well as OEM alignment specifications for most vehicles.

Hunter also offers an optional body damage camera, which captures 40 or more images per vehicle without a time penalty, protecting service providers against questionable damage claims.

Quick Check Drive sells at a premium over Quick Check, but Hunter declined to provide specifics.