Vehicle with adjustable wheels and a system implemented in a vehicle

Abstract

Vehicle (110), comprising: a plurality of adjustable wheels (120), wherein each adjustable wheel (120) is configured such that when actuated, a rolling radius of the adjustable wheel (120) is changed; characterized by the fact that The vehicle (110) further comprises a plurality of fenders (130) integrated into a body of the vehicle (110) in an area of ​​the plurality of adjustable wheels (120), each of the plurality of fenders (130) comprising a plurality of fender segments (132) arranged side by side along an arc of the corresponding fender (130), each of the fender segments (132) being configured to move radially inward away from the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) based on a change in the roll radius of the corresponding adjustable wheel (120), such that a predefined distance is maintained between an end of the fender segments (132) and an outer circumference of the corresponding adjustable wheel (120).

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of motor vehicles. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a vehicle with variable ground clearance and a system implemented in the vehicle for providing the required ground clearance.

[0002] Vehicles are typically designed for operation under specific terrain conditions. Sedans, for example, are designed for use on paved roads and therefore have lower ground clearance, as they are not expected to travel on rough terrain. SUVs, on the other hand, are designed for use on rough terrain and therefore have higher ground clearance.

[0003] However, SUVs and sedans, for example, don't always have to drive on the intended terrain. An SUV might spend most of its time on level roads, and its high center of gravity can hinder its optimal performance; a sedan, on the other hand, might occasionally have to navigate rough terrain, which, due to its low ground clearance, can lead to underbody damage. Therefore, it would be advantageous, at least for some applications, if a vehicle's ground clearance could be adjusted depending on the terrain it has to traverse.

[0004] One factor that directly affects a vehicle's ground clearance is the diameter of its wheels. However, it's practically impossible to replace wheels with larger or smaller diameters depending on current needs. A wheel whose rolling radius can be changed as required can overcome the aforementioned limitations.

[0005] A vehicle whose body is designed for smaller wheels cannot accommodate wheels with a larger rolling radius due to the risk of collisions between the wheels and the body. Conversely, a vehicle whose body is designed for larger wheels will lose its aesthetic appeal if the wheels are reduced in size, due to the increased clearance between the body and the wheels.

[0006] Patent document CN 1 12 277 525 A discloses a wheel for motor vehicles comprising a wheel axle, a left spoke, and a right spoke. A reducing device is arranged between the left and right spokes. The reducing device is equipped with at least one right and at least one left reducing mechanism, and at least one pneumatic-hydraulic twin-shaft cylinder is installed in each of the left and right reducing mechanisms. The upper end of a piston rod of each pneumatic-hydraulic twin-shaft cylinder is provided with an arc-shaped rim module. The rim modules comprise the left rim modules and the right rim modules, which, after each pneumatic-hydraulic twin-shaft cylinder has retracted to adjust the wheel diameter, are combined to form a left and a right circular rim.

[0007] Patent document KR 10 1 380 217 B1 discloses a wheel for a vehicle to which various types of tires can be mounted. The wheel has an inner diameter section that is attached to an axle by fastening screws. It further includes spoke elements arranged radially from the inner diameter section at equal intervals to support the wheel, and an outer diameter section connected to the end sections of the spoke elements, on which a bead section of the tire sits. The outer diameter section of the wheel has extended outer diameter sections that connect the spoke elements to the adjacent spoke element. The spoke element consists of two variable spoke elements that are extended or retracted radially from the inner diameter section.

[0008] Patent document US 6,749,205 B2 discloses a vehicle configured such that a frame of the vehicle can be raised and lowered relative to the ground for loading. The vehicle includes at least two ground wheels for supporting the frame, each having a mounting assembly that carries a wheel axle for supporting a wheel hub, such that the wheel axle is offset from a pivot axis of the mounting assembly. Therefore, when the mounting assembly is rotated about the pivot axis, the wheel axle is raised or lowered relative to the vehicle frame, resulting in a change in the height of the frame above the ground.

[0009] While the cited counter-arguments reveal different arrangements for changing the rolling radius of a wheel, it is possible to provide an improved wheel whose rolling radius can be changed to alter the vehicle's ground clearance. Furthermore, there is an engineering need for an arrangement that maintains the vehicle's aesthetics when the wheel size is changed.

[0010] Patent document DE 10 2022 110 234 A1 discloses a wheel arch cover for the wheel arch of a vehicle. This cover comprises several trim elements that are adjustable between a covered position and a stowed position. The trim elements are designed as louvers arranged concentrically around a main axis and are coupled to an adjustment mechanism. This adjustment mechanism allows the louvers to be moved synchronously between the covered position and the stowed position, similar to a central locking mechanism. The adjustment mechanism and the trim elements are, at least in the stowed position, housed in a casing that partially surrounds the main axis.

[0011] Furthermore, patent document FR 420 307 A discloses a flexible metal wheel, intended in particular for motor vehicles. This wheel comprises a metal hub to which steel spokes are attached. Each spoke essentially consists of two interlocking tubes that are telescopically displaceable relative to one another. Coil springs are arranged inside the spokes to limit the displacement. An arc-shaped metal segment is attached to the outer ends of each spoke and is coupled at its ends to the adjacent segments, so that the entirety of the segments forms a closed circle, which constitutes the wheel's running surface.

[0012] Furthermore, US patent 2018 / 0154687A1 discloses an adjustable wheel comprising a central hub and several radial segments attached to the hub at their proximal end and extending radially from it. Each radial segment is equipped with a linear actuator designed to change the length of the respective segment. A running shoe is attached to the distal end of each segment for support on the road surface. A locking mechanism is also provided to block the linear movement of the actuator when necessary. An associated control system includes a distance sensor that detects the distance to a road surface in the vehicle's path, and a computer that evaluates the distance information. Based on this, a target length for the segments is determined to maintain the wheel hub at a constant level, and corresponding control signals are sent to the linear actuators of the segments.

[0013] A general objective of the present disclosure is to provide an efficient, intelligent and reliable solution to eliminate the aforementioned problems and to improve the experience of the occupants seated in the vehicle.

[0014] One purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an improved wheel whose size changes to meet different ground clearance requirements.

[0015] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a wheel that has a smooth outer circumference in both the reduced diameter and increased diameter states to ensure a smooth ride.

[0016] Another purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an arrangement that preserves the aesthetics of the vehicle even when the wheel size is changed.

[0017] One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a system implemented in a vehicle that changes the rolling radius of the vehicle's wheels without affecting the aesthetics of the vehicle.

[0018] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to the field of motor vehicles. In particular, the present disclosure provides a vehicle capable of changing its ground clearance depending on the terrain to be traversed, while maintaining a distance between the wheels and the corresponding fender. The present disclosure further relates to a system implemented in the vehicle for providing the required ground clearance without compromising the vehicle's aesthetics.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the proposed vehicle comprises a plurality of adjustable wheels and a plurality of fenders. Each adjustable wheel is configured such that its rolling radius is changed when actuated. The plurality of fenders is integrated into a body of the vehicle within a region of the plurality of adjustable wheels, and each fender comprises a plurality of fender segments arranged side by side on the body of the vehicle along an arc of the respective fender.Each fender segment is configured to move radially inwards and away from the corresponding adjustable wheel within the vehicle body, and outwards towards the corresponding adjustable wheel, depending on the change in the roll radius of the corresponding adjustable wheel, so that a predefined distance is maintained between one end of the fender segments and an outer circumference of the corresponding adjustable wheel.

[0020] In one aspect, each of the adjustable wheels can include a plurality of spokes, each spoke having an inner spoke extending radially outward from a hub of the adjustable wheel and an outer spoke configured telescopically with the inner spoke for movement between a retracted and an extended position. The wheel further includes a plurality of rim segments coupled to a free end of the outer spokes. Each of the rim segments can have a tapered cross-section and be configured such that a thicker end of each rim segment is positioned beneath a thinner end of the adjacent rim segment. During movement of the outer spokes between the retracted and extended positions, the thicker and thinner ends of the adjacent rim segments experience a relative sliding motion.The retracted position of the outer spokes corresponds to a reduced rolling radius of the adjustable wheel, and the extended position of the outer spokes corresponds to an increased rolling radius of the adjustable wheel.

[0021] In one aspect, each of the multitude of adjustable wheels and each of the multitude of adjustable fenders can each comprise a multitude of first actuators and a multitude of second actuators, wherein the first actuators can be configured with the inner spokes to move the corresponding outer spokes between the retracted position and the extended position; and the second actuators can be functionally coupled with the multitude of fender segments to move the fender segments radially inward within the body of the vehicle into an inner position away from the corresponding adjustable wheel and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel into an outer position.

[0022] In one aspect, the first and second actuators can be double-acting hydraulic cylinders to allow movement of the outer spokes from the retracted position to the extended position and vice versa. Similarly, the double-acting cylinder of the second actuators can allow movement of the fender segments from the outer position to the inner position and vice versa.

[0023] In one aspect, the vehicle can include one or more sensors and a control unit. The one or more sensors monitor a section of road in front of the vehicle and generate a set of corresponding signals.The control system is functionally coupled to the one or more sensors, the multitude of adjustable wheels, and the multitude of fenders, with the control system being configured to: detect, based on the set of signals from the one or more sensors, whether the vehicle requires increased ground clearance to cope with the route ahead; and trigger a set of first signals based on the detection, the triggered set of first signals controlling the multitude of first actuators and the multitude of second actuators to move the outer spokes and fender segments to achieve increased ground clearance and to maintain the predefined distance between the outer circumference of the adjustable wheels and the corresponding fenders.

[0024] According to another aspect, the present disclosure provides a system implemented in a vehicle for providing a required ground clearance, wherein the system comprises a plurality of adjustable wheels, one or more sensors, and a controller. Each adjustable wheel comprises: a plurality of spokes, each spoke comprising an inner spoke extending radially outward from a hub of the adjustable wheel, and an outer spoke configured telescopically with the inner spoke for movement between a retracted position and an extended position; and a plurality of rim segments coupled to a free end of the outer spokes. Each rim segment has a tapered cross-section and is configured such that a thicker end of each rim segment is positioned beneath a thinner end of the adjacent rim segment.During movement of the outer spokes between the retracted and extended positions, the thicker and thinner ends of the adjacent rim segments experience a relative sliding motion. The retracted position of the outer spokes corresponds to a reduced rolling radius of the adjustable wheel, and the extended position of the outer spokes corresponds to an increased rolling radius. One or more sensors monitor a section of road in front of the vehicle and generate a set of corresponding signals.The control system is functionally coupled to the one or more sensors, the multitude of adjustable wheels, and the multitude of fenders, and is configured to: detect, based on the set of signals from the one or more sensors, whether the vehicle requires increased ground clearance to traverse the road ahead; and trigger a set of initial signals based on this detection. The triggered set of initial signals is configured to actuate the multitude of adjustable wheels, moving the inner spokes of the multitude of adjustable wheels into the extended position to increase the rolling radius of each adjustable wheel and, accordingly, raise the vehicle's ground clearance.

[0025] In one aspect, the system can include a multitude of fenders integrated into the vehicle body in the area of ​​the multitude of adjustable wheels. Each of the multitude of fenders includes a multitude of fender segments arranged side by side along an arc of the respective fender. Each fender segment is configured to move radially inward away from the corresponding adjustable wheel and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel. The control system is functionally coupled to the multitude of fender segments of each of the adjustable wheels, such that when the adjustable wheels are actuated, the fender segments move radially inward away from the corresponding adjustable wheel to increase the roll radius, thereby maintaining a predefined distance between one end of the fender segments and the outer circumference of the corresponding adjustable wheels.

[0026] In one aspect, each of the multitude of adjustable wheels and each of the multitude of fenders can include a multitude of first actuators and a multitude of second actuators. The first actuators are configured with the inner spokes to move the corresponding outer spokes between the retracted and extended positions; and the second actuators are functionally coupled with the multitude of fender segments to move the fender segments radially inward into an inner position away from the corresponding adjustable wheel, and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel into an outer position.

[0027] In one aspect, the first actuators and the second actuators can be double-acting hydraulic cylinders to allow movement of the outer spokes from the retracted position to the extended position and from the extended position to the retracted position, and to allow movement of the fender segments from the outer position to the inner position and from the outer position to the inner position.

[0028] In one aspect, the control system can be configured so that, based on the set of signals from one or more sensors, it detects that the vehicle does not require higher ground clearance to manage the distance ahead, it triggers a second set of signals to actuate the first and second actuators to move the inner spokes of the adjustable wheels into the retracted position to reduce the roll radius of each of the adjustable wheels, and to move the rim segments into the inner position to maintain the predefined distance between the outer circumference of the adjustable wheels and the corresponding fenders.

[0029] Various tasks, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become clearer from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments together with the accompanying drawing figures, in which the same reference numerals denote the same components.

[0030] The accompanying drawings serve to enhance understanding of the present disclosure. They are integrated into this patent specification and form part of it. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 1 shows an exemplary block diagram illustrating various components of the proposed system for providing the required ground clearance in order to explain its general operation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2A and Fig. Figure 2B shows an exemplary representation of the proposed wheel and shows the movement of various parts of the wheel during a change in the size of the wheel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary representation of the proposed fenders of the vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 shows an exemplary schematic arrangement of hydraulic actuators and a control system. Fig. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 shows an exemplary block diagram illustrating the step-by-step operation of the proposed system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] A detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, illustrated in the accompanying drawings, follows. The embodiments are described in sufficient detail to clearly convey the disclosure. However, the level of detail provided is not intended to limit the expected variations of the embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the basic concept and scope of the present disclosures as defined in the accompanying claims.

[0032] The embodiments described herein relate to the field of motor vehicles. In particular, the present disclosure provides a vehicle capable of changing its ground clearance depending on the terrain to be traversed, while maintaining a distance between the wheels and the corresponding fender. Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a system implemented in the vehicle for providing the required ground clearance without affecting the vehicle's aesthetics.

[0033] With reference to Fig. 1. The proposed system (hereinafter referred to interchangeably as System 100) can be implemented in a vehicle 110 to provide the required ground clearance.

[0034] In one embodiment, the system 100 can include one or more sensors 102 (hereinafter also referred to collectively as sensors 102 and individually as sensor 102), which can be configured at predefined positions on the vehicle 110. The sensors 102 can be configured to monitor a distance in front of the vehicle 110 and generate a set of corresponding signals. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensors 102 can include, but are not limited to, a camera, radar, lidar, proximity sensor, motion sensor, and navigation system.

[0035] In one embodiment, the system 100 can include a controller 104 that can communicate with the sensors 102. The controller 104 can receive the set of signals generated by the sensors 102 and further process the received set of signals to detect whether the vehicle 110 needs increased ground clearance to traverse the road ahead. Based on this detection, the controller 104 can further trigger a set of first signals, which can be configured to control a plurality of adjustable wheels 120 (hereinafter collectively referred to as wheels 120 and individually as wheel 120) of the vehicle 110 to increase the rolling radius of the wheels 120.

[0036] According to one embodiment, each wheel 120 can include several spokes 112-1, 112-2, ... 112-N (hereinafter collectively referred to as spokes 112 and individually as spoke 112), wherein the spokes 112 can be further subdivided into inner spokes 114-1, 114-2, ... 114-N (hereinafter collectively referred to as inner spokes 114 and individually as inner spoke 114) and outer spokes 116-1, 116-2, ... 116-N (hereinafter collectively referred to as outer spokes 116 and individually as outer spoke 116), so that each spoke 112 can include an inner spoke 114 and an outer spoke 116.

[0037] In one embodiment, the inner spokes 114 can extend radially outwards from a hub 140 of the adjustable wheel 120. In other embodiments, the outer spokes 116 can be configured telescopically with the inner spoke 114 to allow movement between a retracted and an extended position. In a preferred embodiment, the retracted position of the outer spokes 116 can correspond to a reduced rolling radius of the adjustable wheel 120, and the extended position of the outer spokes 116 can correspond to an increased rolling radius of the adjustable wheel 120.

[0038] In one embodiment, the wheel 120 can further include a plurality of rim segments 118-1, 118-2, ... 118-N (hereinafter collectively referred to as rim segments 118 and individually as rim segment 118), which can be coupled to a free end of the outer spokes 116. Each of the rim segments 118 can have a tapered cross-section and be configured such that a thicker end 124 of each of the rim segments 118 is positioned under a thinner end 122 of the adjacent rim segment 118, so that during movement of the outer spokes 116 between the retracted position and the extended position, the thicker end 124 and the thinner end 122 of the adjacent rim segments 118 undergo a relative sliding movement.

[0039] It can be seen that the tapered configuration of the rim segments arranged in the manner described above results in a comparatively smooth outer circumference of the 120 wheel without steps, which leads to a smooth ride for the vehicle.

[0040] In one embodiment, each rim segment 118 can comprise a back plate made of high-strength metal, which is connected to the free end of the corresponding outer spoke 116, and an outer polyurethane part 126, which is intended to be in contact with a rod surface.

[0041] In one embodiment as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2B, the inner spokes 114 on the wheels 120 can be configured to move into the extended position upon receiving the set of initial signals triggered by the control unit 104, in order to increase the rolling radius of each of the wheels 120 and accordingly increase the ground clearance of the vehicle 110.

[0042] With reference to Fig. 3. The system 100 can also include a plurality of fenders 130 integrated into a body of the vehicle 110 in the area of ​​the plurality of adjustable wheels 120. In a preferred embodiment, each fender 130 can include several fender segments 132 arranged side by side along an arc of the respective fender 130. In one embodiment, each fender segment 132 can be configured to move radially inward and away from the corresponding wheel 120 within the body of the vehicle, and outward toward the corresponding wheel 120.

[0043] In one embodiment, the control 104 can be functionally coupled to the fender segments 132 of each of the wheels 120, so that the fender segments 132 are moved radially inwards away from the corresponding wheel 120 when the wheel 120 is actuated in order to increase the rolling radius in order to maintain a predefined distance between an end of the fender segments 132 and an outer circumference of the corresponding wheel 120.

[0044] In one embodiment, each of the wheels 120 can include a plurality of first actuators 106 (hereinafter collectively referred to as first actuators 106 / actuators 106 and individually as first actuator 106 / actuator 106). In another embodiment, the fenders 130 can include a plurality of second actuators 108 (hereinafter collectively referred to as second actuators 108 / actuators 108 and individually as second actuator 108 / actuator 108).

[0045] In one embodiment, the first actuators 106 can be configured with the inner spokes 114 to move the corresponding outer spokes 116 between the retracted position and the extended position. In another embodiment, the second actuators 108 can be functionally coupled with the fender segments 132 of the fenders 130 to move the fender segments 132 radially inward into an inner position away from the corresponding adjustable wheel and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel into an outer position.

[0046] According to another embodiment, if, based on the set of signals from the one or more sensors 102, the control unit 104 detects that the vehicle 110 does not require higher ground clearance to manage the distance ahead, it can be configured to trigger a set of second signals to actuate the first actuators 106 and the second actuators 108, respectively, to move the inner spokes 114 of the adjustable wheels 120 into the retracted position to reduce the rolling radius of each of the wheels 120, and to move the rim segments 118 into the inward position to maintain the predefined distance between the outer circumference of the adjustable wheels 120 and the corresponding fenders 130 ( Fig. 2A and Fig. 3).

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the first actuators 106 and the second actuators 108 can be double-acting hydraulic cylinders, which are connected in a suitable manner, as shown in Fig. 4 shown. In one implementation, the double-acting hydraulic cylinders assigned to the first actuators 106 can enable movement of the outer spokes 116 from the retracted position to the extended position and from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0048] In one embodiment as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2B, the double-acting hydraulic cylinders assigned to the first actuators 106, upon receiving the set of first signals from the control unit 104, can release a hydraulic fluid at a predefined pressure in each of the spokes 112, which exerts a force on the outer spokes 116 and thus causes a radial outward movement of the outer spokes 116, resulting in an increase in the rolling radius of the wheels 120.

[0049] In another embodiment, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2A, after receiving the set of second signals from the control unit 104, the double-acting hydraulic cylinders can gradually draw / draw back the hydraulic fluid from inside each of the spokes 112, which removes the force exerted on the spokes 112 and thus causes a radial inward movement of the outer spokes 116 and results in a reduction of the rolling radius of the wheels 120.

[0050] In one embodiment, the double-acting hydraulic cylinders associated with the second actuators 108 can function similarly to allow movement of the fender segments 132 from the outer position to the inner position and vice versa. In one case, when the radii of the wheels 120 increase, the system 100 activates the second actuators 108, and accordingly, the fenders 132 can move to the inner position to accommodate the wheels 120 with increased rolling radii. In another case, when the radii of the wheels 120 decrease, the system 100 deactivates the second actuators 108, and accordingly, the fenders 132 can move to the outer position to accommodate the wheels 120 with decreased rolling radii.

[0051] According to one aspect, the present disclosure also discloses a vehicle 110 which includes a plurality of adjustable wheels 120. Each adjustable wheel 120 is configured such that, when actuated, a rolling radius of the adjustable wheel is changed.

[0052] In one embodiment, the vehicle 110 also includes a plurality of fenders 130 integrated into a body of the vehicle 110 in the area of ​​the adjustable wheels 120, each fender 130 being able to include a plurality of fender segments 132 arranged side by side along an arc of the respective fender 130 ( Fig. 3) Furthermore, each of the fender segments 132 can be configured to move radially inwards away from the corresponding adjustable wheel 120 and outwards towards the corresponding adjustable wheel 120 based on a change in the roll radius of the corresponding wheel 120, so that a predefined distance is maintained between an end of the fender segments 132 and an outer circumference of the corresponding wheel 120.

[0053] According to one embodiment, each of the adjustable wheels 120 includes a plurality of spokes 112, each spoke 112 further comprising an inner spoke 114 extending radially outward from a hub 140 of the adjustable wheel 120, and an outer spoke 116 configured telescopically with the inner spoke 114 for movement between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0054] In one embodiment, a plurality of rim segments 118 can be coupled to a free end of the outer spokes 116, each of the rim segments 118 having a tapered cross-section and being configured such that a thicker end 124 of each rim segment 118 is positioned under a thinner end 122 of the adjacent rim segment 118. During movement of the outer spokes 116 between the retracted position and the extended position, the thicker end 124 and the thinner end 122 of the adjacent rim segments 118 undergo a relative sliding movement.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the retracted position of the outer spokes 116 corresponds to a reduced rolling radius of the adjustable wheel 120 ( Fig. 2A) and the extended position of the outer spokes 116 an increased rolling radius of the adjustable wheel 120 ( Fig. 2B).

[0056] In another embodiment, each of the adjustable wheels 120 and fenders 130 includes a plurality of first actuators 106 and a plurality of second actuators 108. The first actuators 106 can be configured with the inner spokes 114 to move the corresponding outer spokes 116 between the retracted position and the extended position. The second actuators 108 can be functionally coupled with the plurality of fender segments 132 to move the fender segments 132 radially inward to an inner position away from the corresponding adjustable wheel 120 and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel 120 to an outer position.

[0057] In one embodiment, the first actuators 106 and the second actuators 108 can be double-acting hydraulic cylinders mounted on axles 142 between the wheels 120-1 and 120-2 ( Fig. 4) can be positioned to allow movement of the outer spokes 116 from the retracted position to the extended position and from the extended position to the retracted position, and to allow movement of the fender segments 132 from the outer position to the inner position and from the outer position to the inner position.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the vehicle 110 can also include one or more sensors 102 and a control unit 104, which is functionally coupled to the sensors 102, the adjustable wheels 120, and the fenders 130. The sensors 102 can monitor a distance in front of the vehicle 110 and generate a set of corresponding signals.

[0059] In one embodiment, the control is configured to detect, based on the set of signals from the sensors 102, whether the vehicle 110 requires higher ground clearance to manage the distance ahead; and, based on the detection, triggers a set of first signals, wherein the triggered set of first signals controls the plurality of first actuators 106 and the plurality of second actuators 108 to move the outer spokes 116 and the fender segments 132 to achieve higher ground clearance and to maintain the predefined distance between the outer circumference of the adjustable wheels 120 and the corresponding fenders 130.

[0060] With reference to Fig.Flowchart 500 illustrates the step-by-step operation of the proposed system 100. In one instance, at 502, a (sedan) vehicle driving on the road first detects a route (hereinafter also referred to as terrain) using a navigation system such as GPS at 504. Then, at 506, it is determined whether the detected terrain is a highway.

[0061] If the detected terrain is not a highway, the sensor (GPS) sends a signal at 508 to the control unit 104. The control unit 104 then sends the first set of signals at 510 to the hydraulic actuators 106 and 108, as well as to the fenders 130. At 512, the fenders 130 are activated to accommodate larger wheels 120 (hereinafter also referred to as tires). At 514, hydraulic actuators are activated and open, and correspondingly, rim segments 118 (hereinafter also referred to as tire segments 118) slide over each other to transform the wheels 120 into larger wheels with increased radii at 516. Therefore, the vehicle 110 is raised due to the increased ground clearance, and the tire diameter increases to allow for better maneuverability at 518.

[0062] At 520, the terrain is detected again, and at 522, it is determined whether the detected terrain is a highway. If not, the vehicle continues at 110 km / h, and at 524, with larger wheels, at 120 km / h (this is referred to here as the SUV configuration).

[0063] However, if at 522 the detected terrain is identified as a highway, the sensors 102 at 526 send corresponding signals to the control unit 104. The control unit 104 then sends a second set of signals at 528 to the hydraulic actuators 106 and 108, as well as to the fenders 130. At 530, the fenders 130 are activated and open to accommodate smaller wheels 120. At 532, the hydraulic actuators are also activated and begin to close / retract, and the rim segments 118 slide over each other to transform the wheels 120 at 534 into smaller wheels with reduced radii. Therefore, at 536, the ground clearance of the vehicle 110 decreases, and the tire diameter becomes smaller to provide better comfort. This configuration (hereinafter referred to as the "sedan configuration") continues at 538.

[0064] Therefore, the proposed vehicle 110 and the proposed system 100 can improve the experience of the occupants sitting in the vehicle 110 by changing the size of the wheels 120 of the vehicle 110 depending on the terrain on which it is driving.

[0065] When driving on uneven terrain, the size of the wheels increases to 120, thereby effectively absorbing shocks caused by the uneven terrain, thus extending the vehicle's lifespan and providing greater safety to the occupants.

[0066] Furthermore, when driving on a level road, the system 100 reduces the size of the wheels 120, which contributes to a reduction in the rolling resistance of the wheels 120 and thus leads to improved energy efficiency and lower fuel consumption.

[0067] While various embodiments of the invention are described above, other and further embodiments of the invention can be conceived without deviating from its fundamental scope. The scope of the invention is defined by the following claims. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples. These are listed here to enable a person skilled in the art to manufacture and use the invention in combination with information and knowledge available to such a person.

[0068] The present disclosure provides an efficient, intelligent and reliable system and vehicle for improving the experience of vehicle occupants.

[0069] The present invention relates to an improved wheel whose size adapts to different ground clearance requirements.

[0070] The present invention provides a wheel which has a smooth outer circumference in both a reduced diameter state and an increased diameter state to ensure a smooth ride.

[0071] The present invention provides an arrangement that helps to maintain the aesthetics of the vehicle when the wheel size is changed.

[0072] The present invention provides a system implemented in a vehicle that changes the rolling radius of the vehicle's wheels without affecting the vehicle's aesthetics.

Claims

[1] Vehicle (110), comprising: a plurality of adjustable wheels (120), wherein each adjustable wheel (120) is configured such that when actuated, a rolling radius of the adjustable wheel (120) is changed; characterized by , that The vehicle (110) further comprises a plurality of fenders (130) integrated into a body of the vehicle (110) in an area of ​​the plurality of adjustable wheels (120), each of the plurality of fenders (130) comprising a plurality of fender segments (132) arranged side by side along an arc of the corresponding fender (130), each of the fender segments (132) being configured to move radially inward away from the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) based on a change in the roll radius of the corresponding adjustable wheel (120), such that a predefined distance is maintained between an end of the fender segments (132) and an outer circumference of the corresponding adjustable wheel (120). [2] Vehicle (110) according to claim 1, wherein each of the adjustable wheels (120) comprises: a plurality of spokes (112), each spoke (112) comprising an inner spoke (114) extending radially outward from a hub (140) of the adjustable wheel (120) and an outer spoke (116) configured telescopically with the inner spoke (114) for movement between a retracted position and an extended position; a plurality of rim segments (118) coupled to a free end of the outer spokes (116); wherein each of the rim segments (118) has a tapered cross-section and is configured such that a thicker end (124) of each of the rim segments (118) is positioned under a thinner end (122) of the adjacent rim segment (118), and wherein during a movement of the outer spokes (116) between the retracted position and the extended position, the thicker end (124) and the thinner end (122) of the adjacent rim segments (118) undergo a relative sliding movement; and wherein the retracted position of the outer spokes (116) corresponds to a reduced rolling radius of the adjustable wheel (120) and the extended position of the outer spokes (116) corresponds to an increased rolling radius of the adjustable wheel (120). [3] Vehicle (110) according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of adjustable wheels (120) and each of the plurality of fenders (130) comprises a plurality of first actuators (106) and a plurality of second actuators (108), wherein the first actuators (106) are configured with the inner spokes (114) to move the corresponding outer spokes (116) between the retracted position and the extended position; and the second actuators (108) are functionally coupled with the plurality of fender segments (132) to move the fender segments (132) radially inward into an inner position away from the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) into an outer position. [4] Vehicle (110) according to claim 3, wherein the first actuators (106) and the second actuators (108) are double-acting hydraulic cylinders to enable movement of the outer spokes (116) from the retracted position to the extended position and from the extended position to the retracted position, and to enable movement of the fender segments (132) from the outer position to the inner position and from the outer position to the inner position. [5] Vehicle (110) according to claim 4, wherein the vehicle (110) comprises: one or more sensors (102) for monitoring a section in front of the vehicle (110) and for generating a set of corresponding signals; and a control unit (104) that is functionally coupled with the one or more sensors (102), the plurality of adaptable wheels (120) and the plurality of fenders (130), wherein the control unit (104) is configured to: Detect, based on the set of signals from the one or more sensors (102), whether the vehicle (110) needs higher ground clearance to manage the distance ahead; and Triggering a set of first signals based on the detection, wherein the triggered set of first signals drives the plurality of first actuators (106) and the plurality of second actuators (108) to move the outer spokes (116) and the fender segments (132) to achieve higher ground clearance and maintain the predefined distance between the outer circumference of the adjustable wheels (120) and the corresponding fenders (130). [6] System (100) implemented in a vehicle (110) to provide a required ground clearance, the system (100) comprising: a variety of customizable wheels (120), each customizable wheel (120) comprising: a plurality of spokes (112), each spoke (112) comprising an inner spoke (114) extending radially outward from a hub (140) of the adjustable wheel (120) and an outer spoke (116) configured telescopically with the inner spoke (114) for movement between a retracted position and an extended position; a plurality of rim segments (118) coupled to a free end of the outer spokes (116); one or more sensors (102) for monitoring a section in front of the vehicle (110) and for generating a set of corresponding signals; a controller (104) that is functionally coupled with one or more sensors (102), characterized by , that Each of the rim segments (118) has a tapered cross-section and is configured such that a thicker end (124) of each of the rim segments (118) is positioned under a thinner end (122) of the adjacent rim segment (118), and wherein, during a movement of the outer spokes (116) between the retracted position and the extended position, the thicker end (124) and the thinner end (122) of the adjacent rim segments (118) undergo a relative sliding movement; and wherein the retracted position of the outer spokes (116) corresponds to a reduced rolling radius of the adjustable wheel (120) and the extended position of the outer spokes (116) corresponds to an increased rolling radius of the adjustable wheel (120); and the control unit (104), which is furthermore functionally coupled with the plurality of adaptable wheels (120) and the plurality of fenders (130), wherein the control unit (104) is configured to: Detect, based on the set of signals from one or more sensors, whether the vehicle (110) needs higher ground clearance to cope with the distance ahead; and Triggering a set of first signals based on the detection, wherein the triggered set of first signals is configured to drive the plurality of adjustable wheels (120) to move the inner spokes (114) of the plurality of adjustable wheels (120) into the extended position to increase the roll radius of each of the adjustable wheels (120) and accordingly increase the ground clearance of the vehicle (110). [7] System (100) according to claim 6, wherein the system (100) comprises a plurality of fenders (130) integrated into a body of the vehicle (110) in the area of ​​the plurality of adjustable wheels (120), each of the plurality of fenders (130) comprising a plurality of fender segments (132) arranged side by side along an arc of the corresponding fender (130), each fender segment (132) being configured to move radially inwards away from the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) and outwards towards the corresponding adjustable wheel (120);and wherein the control (104) is functionally coupled to the plurality of fender segments (132) of each of the adjustable wheels (120) such that the fender segments (132) are moved radially inwards away from the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) when the adjustable wheels (120) are actuated to increase the roll radius in order to maintain a predefined distance between an end of the fender segments (132) and an outer circumference of the corresponding adjustable wheels (120). [8] System (100) according to claim 7, wherein each of the plurality of adjustable wheels (120) and each of the plurality of fenders (130) comprises a plurality of first actuators (106) and a plurality of second actuators (108), wherein the first actuators (106) are configured with the inner spokes (114) to move the corresponding outer spokes (116) between the retracted position and the extended position; and the second actuators (108) are functionally coupled with the plurality of fender segments (132) to move the fender segments (132) radially inward into an inner position away from the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) and outward toward the corresponding adjustable wheel (120) into an outer position. [9] System (100) according to claim 8, wherein the first actuators (106) and the second actuators (108) are double-acting hydraulic cylinders to enable movement of the outer spokes (116) from the retracted position to the extended position and from the extended position to the retracted position, and to enable movement of the fender segments (132) from the outer position to the inner position and from the outer position to the inner position. [10] System (100) according to claim 9, wherein the controller (104) is configured such that, when it is detected, based on the set of signals from the one or more sensors (102), that the vehicle (110) does not require higher ground clearance to manage the distance ahead, it triggers a set of second signals to actuate the first actuators (106) and the second actuators (108) to move the outer spokes (116) of the adjustable wheels (120) into the retracted position to reduce the rolling radius of each of the adjustable wheels (120), and to move the rim segments (118) into the inner position to maintain the predefined distance between the outer circumference of the adjustable wheels (120) and the corresponding fenders (130).

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