Rotor drive key assembly

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "Rotor Drive Key Assembly." An assembly is disclosed that, in some examples, includes a rotor drive key configured to be positioned over a wheel boss defined by a wheel. A drive key body defines a slot configured to receive the wheel boss. An inner surface of the drive key body is configured to establish conformal contact with an outer contour of the wheel boss and resist relative movement of the rotor drive key in a radial direction of the wheel. The rotor drive key includes a tab having a tab aperture configured to receive a fastener extending in an axial direction of the wheel and engaging the wheel boss.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to wheel braking systems for vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicles such as aircraft may use wheel braking systems that include multi-disc braking assemblies. For example, such a multi-disc braking assembly may include multiple rotors engaged with a wheel and multiple stators interleaved with the rotors. The rotors and wheels are configured to rotate about an axis, while the stators remain stationary. To slow the rotational motion of the rotating wheel, the braking assembly may displace a piston against a pressure plate to compress the rotating rotor engaged with the wheel against the stationary stator, thereby generating a torque that slows the rotational motion of the wheel. In some examples, the rotor may engage with the wheel via a rotor drive key located on the inner surface of the wheel. In some such examples, the rotor may define a slot configured to receive the rotor drive key. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some examples, the component includes a rotor drive key configured to be positioned above a wheel boss defined by a wheel. The rotor drive key includes a drive key body defining a slot configured to receive the wheel boss. An inner surface of the drive key body defining the slot is configured to engage with the wheel boss dovetail and establish conformal contact with the outer contour of the wheel boss to help limit movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel boss. In some examples, the drive key body defines a substantially U-shaped cross-section configured to at least partially surround the wheel boss when the rotor drive key engages with the wheel boss dovetail, such that the rotor drive key is substantially fixed to prevent movement in the tangential direction of the wheel. The inner surface of the drive key body is configured to slide above the outer contour of the wheel boss in the axial direction of the wheel boss and resist relative movement of the rotor drive key in the radial direction of the wheel.

[0004] The conformal contact between the drive key body and the wheel boss can be established by the inner surface of the drive key body using any suitable structure. For example, in some examples, the inner surface defines a recess configured to receive a wheel boss protrusion and / or a protrusion configured to insert into the wheel boss recess.

[0005] In some examples, the rotor drive key includes a tab that defines a tab hole configured to receive a fastener extending in the axial direction of the wheel. The fastener may engage a wheel boss to restrict movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel in the axial direction of the wheel (e.g., prevent or substantially prevent movement).

[0006] This article also describes an exemplary method for attaching a rotor drive key to the inner surface of a wheel.

[0007] Details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objects, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, as well as from the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary wheel that includes multiple rotor drive keys on the inner surface of the wheel.

[0009] Figure 2 It includes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary wheel and braking assembly.

[0010] Figure 3 It is a plan view of an exemplary component including a rotor drive key on the inner surface of a wheel, having a selected cross section.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of an exemplary rotor drive key and fastener on the inner surface of a wheel.

[0012] Figure 5 It is a plan view with a cross-section of the rotor-driven key, including the key protrusion.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of an exemplary rotor drive key.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of an exemplary rotor drive key that includes removable tabs.

[0015] Figure 8 It is a plan view with a cross-section of the rotor-driven key, including the key recess.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary technique for attaching a rotor drive key to the inner surface of a wheel. Detailed Implementation

[0017] This disclosure describes articles, systems, and techniques related to rotor drive keys in vehicle wheel braking systems, as well as components for attaching rotor drive keys to vehicle wheels. The rotor drive key described herein is configured to attach to an inner surface of the wheel. The inner surface of the wheel defines at least one wheel boss, and the rotor drive key is configured to be positioned over the wheel boss. When positioned over the wheel boss, the wheel boss may extend in a substantially radial direction of the wheel (e.g., radial or substantially radial within the range allowed by manufacturing tolerances), and the rotor drive key may extend in a substantially axial direction of the wheel (e.g., axial or substantially axial within the range allowed by manufacturing tolerances).

[0018] The rotor drive key includes a drive key body defining a groove (“drive keyway”) configured to receive one or more wheel bosses of a wheel. The groove is defined at least partially by an inner surface of the drive key body, and the inner surface is configured to conform to a portion of the outer contour of the wheel boss when the groove receives the wheel boss. In some examples, the drive keyway may be defined by a key base section, a first key side, and a second key side of the drive key body, wherein the first key side and the second key side extend from the key base section, and the second key side is separated from the first key side at least by the key base section. The rotor drive key is configured to slide axially over one or more wheel bosses and substantially engage with a protrusion, recess, or a dovetail of a protrusion and recess of at least one of the one or more wheel bosses to substantially fix the rotor drive key to prevent relative movement in the radial direction of the wheel.

[0019] As used herein, “relative movement” of the rotor drive key means the movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel when the rotor drive key is positioned on the wheel. Therefore, the rotor drive key may experience substantially zero relative movement in the radial, tangential, and / or axial directions as the wheel and rotor drive key together undergo movement (e.g., radial, tangential, and / or axial movement) measured with reference to a point removed from the wheel and rotor drive key.

[0020] In some examples, the drive keyway of the rotor drive key may have a substantially U-shaped cross-section configured to at least partially surround one or more wheel bosses when the rotor drive key engages with at least one wheel boss dovetail, in order to limit (e.g., substantially prevent or prevent) relative movement of the rotor drive key in the tangential direction of the wheel. To limit (e.g., substantially prevent or prevent) relative movement of the rotor drive key in the axial direction of the wheel, a fastener may be positioned to extend axially through the rotor drive key and into the wheel boss. The fastener engages the wheel boss (e.g., by threaded engagement) to substantially hold the rotor drive key against the wheel boss during operation.

[0021] A rotor drive key is configured to be positioned over one or more wheel bosses extending radially from the inner surface of the wheel. The drive key body defining the drive keyway includes an inner surface configured to conform (e.g., complement) to the one or more wheel bosses as the rotor drive key extends in the axial direction of the wheel. The inner surface of the drive key body is configured to conform to the structure of the wheel bosses when the rotor drive key translates (e.g., slidably translates) over the one or more wheel bosses in the axial direction of the wheel, so as to substantially fix the rotor drive key to prevent relative movement in the radial direction of the wheel. The inner surface of the drive key body may be configured to conform to the outer contour of the wheel boss surface, which is substantially tangential to the wheel. For example, the outer contour may define a wheel boss protrusion, and the inner surface of the drive key body may define a recess configured to receive the wheel boss protrusion when the rotor drive key slides over the wheel boss in the axial direction of the wheel. The recess can be configured to substantially conform to the protrusion (e.g., complement the protrusion) in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the wheel (e.g., substantially parallel to the radial and tangential directions of the wheel).

[0022] For example, in addition to or instead of a recess, the inner surface of the drive key body may define a protrusion configured to insert into a wheel boss recess when the rotor drive key slides over a wheel boss. The outer contour of the wheel boss may define the wheel boss recess. The protrusion may be configured to substantially conform to the wheel boss recess in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axial direction (e.g., complementary to the wheel boss recess). In any of these examples, the drive key body defines a conforming structure along the drive keyway, configured such that when the conforming structure conforms to a corresponding structure defined by the wheel boss, the force acting on the drive key body in the radial direction of the wheel causes the wheel boss to exert an opposing reaction force on the drive key body, thereby substantially fixing the drive key body to prevent relative movement in the radial direction of the wheel. In the example, the drive key body is configured such that a force acting on the drive key body in the tangential direction of the wheel causes the wheel boss to exert an opposite reaction force on the drive key body, thereby substantially fixing the drive key body to prevent relative movement in the radial direction of the wheel.

[0023] In some examples, the inner surface defining the drive keyway and conformal structure of the drive key body is defined by a first inner surface of a first side (“key first side”) of the drive key body, wherein the conformal structure is configured to conform to a first side (“boss first side”) of the wheel boss. A second side (“key second side”) of the drive key body may include a second inner surface facing the first inner surface of the key first side. The second inner surface is configured to face the second side (“boss second side”) of the wheel boss when the rotor drive key extends axially over the wheel. The boss second side is displaced from the boss first side in the tangential direction of the wheel (e.g., on the side of the wheel boss opposite the boss first side). The key second side may include a second conformal structure configured to substantially conform to a second boss structure of the boss second side. Thus, the second conformal structure of the drive key body may help to substantially fix the rotor drive key to prevent movement in the radial direction of the wheel. A key base section may extend between the key first side and the key second side such that the key base section, the key first side, and the key second side define the drive keyway.

[0024] In some examples, the rotor drive key also includes a tab extending from the drive key body and configured to resist relative movement of the rotor drive key in the axial direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key is positioned on one or more wheel bosses. The tab may be physically separable from the drive key body and can be attached to the drive key body. In other examples, the tab and drive key body may have an integral construction (e.g., formed from a single continuous piece of material). The tab may define a tab support surface configured to engage a boss support surface of the wheel boss when the rotor drive key is positioned over the wheel boss. For example, the boss support surface may be located between the first and second boss sides described above. In some examples, the tab may be configured to establish and / or maintain a mechanical connection with at least a key base segment, a first key side, and a second key side of the rotor drive key, such that axial reaction forces from the boss support surface to the tab support surface and / or from the wheel boss to the fastener are at least partially transmitted to other portions of the rotor drive key and substantially fix the rotor drive to prevent movement in the axial direction of the wheel.

[0025] A tab defines a tab bore configured to receive a fastener in the substantially axial direction of the wheel. The fastener may be a threaded bolt. The fastener is configured to extend through the tab bore and into the tab support surface. The fastener may engage a wheel boss (e.g., by threaded engagement) to substantially hold the tab support surface of the rotor drive key in a specific position relative to the boss support surface of the wheel boss. For example, the fastener may substantially maintain contact between the tab support surface and the boss support surface, and / or maintain contact between the tab support surface and one or more materials (e.g., compression washers) between the tab support surface and the boss support surface.

[0026] When the fastener extends axially through the rotor drive key and into the wheel boss, the rotor drive key can be substantially anchored to prevent relative movement in the axial, tangential, and radial directions of the wheel because the inner surface of the drive key body engages with the dovetail of the wheel boss. This allows for the removal of one or more bolts oriented along the radial wheel axis or perpendicular to the length of the rotor drive key from the assembly. Bolts oriented along the radial wheel axis or otherwise perpendicular to the rotor drive key may be more difficult to install compared to the substantially axially extending fasteners described herein; for example, special right-angle tools may be required to install the bolts. Furthermore, bolts oriented along the radial wheel axis or otherwise perpendicular to the rotor drive key are more likely to become unattached to the inner surface of the wheel compared to the conformal rotor drive key and axially oriented fasteners described herein. For example, thermal cycling, vibration, etc., can cause the bolts to loosen or even detach completely from the rotor drive key and wheel assembly. In addition, there may not be sufficient radial clearance in the wheel assembly for the use of a nut or other retaining mechanism with bolts extending in the radial direction. Loose bolts can cause the rotor drive key to be unsecured to the wheel, which can reduce the service life of the rotor drive key and / or the wheel, interrupt the operation of the wheel's braking components, increase maintenance costs, and lead to premature replacement of the rotor drive key.

[0027] Furthermore, the use of fasteners extending in the axial direction of the wheel allows for more options for anti-rotation features, such as keys, pins, and other fixing and / or locking mechanisms. The use of such fixing and / or locking mechanisms may be limited to radially oriented bolts, which typically must be recessed within the housing of the rotor drive key.

[0028] The exemplary rotor drive key described herein is configured to be secured against the inner surface of a wheel using an inner surface (defining a drive keyway), the inner surface of which engages with one or more wheel bosses extending radially from the inner surface of the wheel via a dovetail. The inner surface is configured to conform to the wheel bosses in a manner that substantially secures the rotor drive key to prevent relative movement in at least the radial direction of the wheel. When the inner surface engages with the wheel boss dovetail, the drive keyway may partially surround the wheel bosses to substantially secure the rotor drive key to prevent relative movement in at least the tangential direction of the wheel. Fasteners may extend through the rotor drive key and into the wheel bosses to substantially secure the rotor drive key to prevent relative movement in at least the axial direction of the wheel. Thus, compared to other rotor drive key assemblies that include fasteners extending radially in the wheel, radial, tangential, and axial support can be provided in a manner that makes it less likely for the fasteners to loosen during operation of the wheel or braking system (e.g., due to thermal cycling, vibration, or other operating conditions). Furthermore, the first inner surface and / or the second inner surface are configured such that the rotor drive key can translate axially over the wheel boss while substantially conforming to one side of the wheel boss in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction (e.g., parallel to the radial and tangential directions of the wheel), thereby potentially allowing for easy assembly and / or disassembly.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an exemplary wheel 10, which includes a plurality of rotor drive keys 12 on its inner surface 14. In some examples, wheel 10 is part of an aircraft vehicle. In other examples, wheel 10 may be part of any other vehicle, such as any marine vessel, land vehicle, or other vehicle. Wheel 10 may include a rim 16 defining an outer surface 18 and an inner surface 14. Rim 16 may include a manhole 20, a wheel hub 21, and a wheel overhang flange 22. In some examples, inner surface 14 may include the inner diameter of the manhole 20 of wheel 10. For example, in some cases, inner surface 14 may be referred to as the inner diameter surface of wheel 10.

[0030] In some examples, a tire (not shown) may be mounted on the outer surface 18 of the rim 16. For example, the wheel 10 may include an inner bead seat 24B and an outer bead seat 24A, which are configured to hold the tire on the outer surface 18 of the rim 16.

[0031] The wheel 10 is configured to engage with one or more rotors of the braking assembly. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image) Joining. For example, as... Figure 1As shown in the example, a plurality of rotor drive keys 12 are positioned along the inner surface 14, and each of the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 can be configured to engage with one or more rotors of a brake disc stacked in a braking assembly. This will be relative to... Figure 2 An exemplary braking assembly is described in more detail.

[0032] In some examples, each of the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 is substantially axially positioned on the wheel 10 (e.g., parallel to...). Figure 1 The axis label "A" extends in the direction of the axis (which may be the axis of rotation of wheel 10). For example, the length of each rotor drive key 12 in the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may extend in a substantially axial direction (e.g., axial or nearly axial within the range allowed by manufacturing tolerances) of axis A. In some such examples, the corresponding length of each rotor drive key 12 may extend from (or near) the first edge 26 of wheel 10 to (or near) the second edge 28 of wheel 10. In this way, in some examples, the length of the rotor drive key 12 in the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may be the same as or substantially similar to (e.g., within 10%) the width of wheel 10 from the first edge 26 to the second edge 28. In other examples, the length of the rotor drive key 12 may be less than the width of wheel 10.

[0033] A plurality of rotor drive keys 12 extending substantially in an axial direction enable the wheel 10 to slide onto the braking assembly. For example, the plurality of rotors of the braking assembly may include drive slots configured to receive the plurality of rotor drive keys 12, allowing the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 to slide into corresponding drive slots of the plurality of rotors. In other examples, one or more of the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may be oriented in different directions and / or may engage with one or more rotors in different ways.

[0034] The plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may include any suitable number of rotor drive keys. The number of drive keys may be vehicle-specific and may depend on, for example, load, component size, material properties, etc. In some examples, the number of rotor drive keys included in the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may correspond to the number of drive slots defined by the plurality of rotors of the braking assembly, which are configured to receive the plurality of rotor drive keys 12. For example, each of the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may correspond to a corresponding slot defined by the plurality of rotors of the braking assembly.

[0035] like Figure 1As illustrated in the examples, in some examples, a plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may be mounted around the inner surface 14 of the wheel 10 at substantially equal circumferential distances. In other examples, one or more of the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may be mounted at different circumferential distances from adjacent rotor drive keys compared to at least one other rotor drive key. Here and elsewhere, circumferential distance refers to the length of an arc (e.g., on the inner surface 14 of the wheel 10, where the arc lies in a plane perpendicular to the substantially axial direction of the wheel 10 in this particular example). The rotor drive keys 12 may be integrally formed with the well 20, or may be separate from the well 20 and mechanically attached to it.

[0036] As discussed in further detail below, one or more of the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 define drive keyways configured such that, when the rotor drive keys extend in a direction substantially parallel to axis A (e.g., substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of wheel 10), the respective rotor drive key can be slidably translated over one or more wheel bosses of wheel 10 and engage with said one or more wheel bosses via a dovetail engagement. The dovetail engagement between the rotor drive key 12 and the wheel bosses substantially immobilizes the rotor drive key 12 relative to wheel 10 in the radial direction of wheel 10 (e.g., from axis A toward inner surface 14 and / or from inner surface 14 toward axis A). The rotor drive key 12 defines drive keyways configured at least partially around the wheel bosses of wheel 10 to substantially immobilize the rotor drive key 12 to prevent movement relative to wheel 10 in the tangential direction of wheel 10 (e.g., perpendicular to axis A and perpendicular to the radial direction). The rotor drive key 12 includes a tab configured to act on the surface of the wheel boss to resist relative movement of the rotor drive key 12 in the axial direction of the wheel 10 (e.g., a direction parallel to axis A). In some examples, a fastener may be axially positioned through the rotor drive key 12 and engaged with the wheel boss to substantially maintain the position of the rotor drive key 12 relative to the wheel 10 during operation of the wheel 10.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary wheel and brake assembly 30, including an exemplary wheel 10 and a brake assembly 32. The wheel and brake assembly 30 is shown and described to provide context for the exemplary rotor drive key and the assembly described herein, including the rotor drive key and fasteners. However, in other examples, the rotor drive key, fasteners, and other wheel assembly structures described herein can be used with any suitable wheel and brake assembly.

[0038] The wheel 10 includes multiple rotor drive keys 12, an inner surface 14, a rim 16, an outer surface 18, a manhole 20, a wheel hub 21, a wheel overhang support flange 22, an outer bead seat 24A, and an inner bead seat 24B. The wheel 10 can be configured to be rotatably supported on a fixed axle 34. The wheel 10 can then apply movement to a vehicle including a wheel and brake assembly 30 or mounted on the wheel and brake assembly. Figure 2 In the example shown, the manhole 20 and the wheel extension bracket flange 22 are mechanically connected by lug bolts 36 and lug nuts 38. In other examples, other connection techniques may be used.

[0039] Brake assembly 32 includes actuator assembly 40 and brake stack 42. Actuator assembly 40 includes actuator housing 44, actuator housing bolts 46, and plunger 47. Brake stack 42 includes staggered rotor brake discs 50 and stator brake discs 52. Rotor brake discs 50 are configured to move relative to stator brake discs 52, for example, rotatably about axis A and axially along axis A relative to stator brake discs 52. Rotor brake discs 50 engage (e.g., interlock) with wheel 10 (and specifically well 20) via rotor drive key 12. Stator brake discs 52 are mounted to torque tube 54 via key teeth 56. Wheel and brake assembly 30 can support any kind of private, commercial, or military aircraft or other types of vehicles.

[0040] The wheel and brake assembly 30 can be mounted to the vehicle via torque tube 54 and axle 34. Figure 2 In the example, torque tube 54 is attached to shaft 34 by multiple bolts 58. Torque tube 54 supports actuator assembly 40 and stator brake disc 52. Shaft 34 may be mounted on struts of landing gear (not shown) or other suitable components of the vehicle to connect wheels and brake assembly 30 to the vehicle.

[0041] During vehicle operation, braking may be required periodically, such as during aircraft landing and taxiing. The wheel and brake assembly 30 is configured to provide braking functionality to the vehicle via the actuator assembly 40 and brake stack 42. The actuator assembly 40 includes an actuator housing 44 and a plunger 47. The actuator assembly 40 may include one or more of different types of actuators, such as, for example, electromechanical actuators, hydraulic actuators, pneumatic actuators, etc. During operation, the plunger 47 may extend away from the actuator housing 44 to axially compress the brake stack 42 against a compression region 60 for braking. The brake stack 42 includes staggered rotor brake discs 50 and stator brake discs 52.

[0042] The rotor brake disc 50 is slidably engaged with the rotor drive key 12 to rotate together with the well 20 and the rotor drive key 12. The stator brake disc 52 is mounted to the torque tube 54 via key teeth 56. Figure 2 In one example, the brake stack 42 includes four rotors and five stators. However, in other examples, the brake stack 42 may include a different number of rotors and / or stators. The rotor brake disc 50 and the stator brake disc 52 provide relative friction surfaces for braking the aircraft. In some examples, the wheel and brake assembly 30 may include a thermal barrier layer between the rotor brake disc 50 and the well 20 to, for example, limit heat transfer between the brake stack 42 and the wheel 10.

[0043] In some examples, the key teeth 56 may be circumferentially spaced around the outer portion of the torque tube 54. The stator brake disc 52 may include a plurality of radially inwardly disposed lugs along the inner diameter of the brake disc, which are configured to engage with the key teeth 56. Similarly, the rotor brake disc 50 may include a plurality of radially inwardly disposed drive slots along the outer periphery of the rotor brake disc (e.g., the outer diameter in the case of a disc with a circular cross-section). These drive slots may be configured to engage with the rotor drive key 12. In this way, the rotor brake disc 50 will rotate with the movement of the wheel 10, while the stator brake disc 52 remains stationary, allowing the friction surfaces of adjacent stator brake discs 52 and rotor brake discs 50 to engage with each other, thereby slowing down the rotation of the wheel 10.

[0044] Figure 3 An exemplary component 70 is shown, and a cross-section of an exemplary wheel 10 defining an outer surface 18 and an inner surface 14 is depicted, the cross-section being parallel to... Figure 1 The axial direction A is cut off. The inner surface 14 defines wheel bosses 71, 72, 73, and 74, which are aligned with each other in a direction parallel to axis A. Wheel bosses 71-74 project from the inner surface 14 in the generally radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. Although Figure 3 Four wheel bosses 71-74 are shown, but in other examples, wheel 10 may include any suitable number of wheel bosses aligned with each other in a direction parallel to axis A.

[0045] exist Figure 3 In the middle, line A1 and the axis of rotation A of wheel 10 are... Figure 1 and Figure 2 Lines A1 and R1 coincide and indicate the axial direction of wheel 10. Line R1 is perpendicular to and intersects line A1, and indicates the radial direction of wheel 10. Line T1 is perpendicular to both line A1 and line R1 and indicates the tangential direction of wheel 10 (line T1 is perpendicular to...). Figure 3 (The page in the middle). Figure 4 It is shown relative to lines A1, R1, and T1. Figure 3An exemplary perspective view of the wheel 10 and component 70. Figure 5 A cross-section of the wheel 10 and assembly 70, shown relative to lines A1, R1, and T1, is depicted, passing through the wheel boss 71 and perpendicular to line A1 (line A1 is perpendicular to...). Figure 5 (The page in the middle).

[0046] Component 70 includes a rotor drive key 76, which includes a drive key body 78 and a tab 80. The drive key body 78 is configured to be positioned over one or more wheel bosses 71-74. The drive key body 78 defines a drive keyway 82, which is configured to receive at least a portion of one or more wheel bosses 71-74 in such a manner as to support the rotor drive key 76 in at least a radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. The drive keyway 82 is located along a portion of the drive key body 78 between a first end 84 (“first body end 84”) and a second end 86 (“second body end 86”) of the drive key body 78. The drive key body 78 and / or the tab 80 are further configured to support the rotor drive key 76 in an axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. The drive keyway 82 is located along the central longitudinal axis L of the drive key body 78. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 (Extended). When the drive key body 78 receives one or more wheel bosses 71-74 in the drive keyway 82, the central longitudinal axis L of the drive key body 78 may be substantially parallel to the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10.

[0047] Although the configuration of the rotor drive key 76 is discussed and shown primarily with respect to wheel boss 71 in the following discussion and figures, it should be understood that the rotor drive key 76 may have a substantially similar relationship with any of the other wheel bosses of the wheel 10, such as wheel boss 72, wheel boss 73 and / or wheel boss 74.

[0048] The drive key body 78 includes an inner surface 88 defining a drive keyway 82. The drive key body 78 is configured to translate over the wheel boss 71 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 to position the rotor drive key 76 over the wheel boss 71 and introduce the wheel boss 71 into the drive keyway 82. In some examples, the drive key body 78 is configured to initially receive the wheel boss 71 within the drive keyway 82 at a first body end 84 and translate along the axial direction A1 of the wheel (e.g., along direction a+) until the tab 80 encounters the wheel boss 71.

[0049] The inner surface 88 of the drive key body 78 is configured to conform to (e.g., dovetail engagement, and / or establish conformal contact with) a portion of the wheel boss 71 when the drive key body 78 receives the wheel boss 71 in the drive keyway 82, so as to substantially resist and limit movement of the drive key body 78 in at least the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. For example, the inner surface 88 may include at least one conformal structure (e.g., Figure 5 The first inner surface 90 shown is configured to conform to the boss feature of the wheel boss 71 (e.g., Figure 5 The wheel boss 71 shown has a boss protrusion 92 that is conformable and / or complementary. The boss feature may be defined by the outer contour of the wheel boss 71 (e.g., a contour defined in a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis L). In some examples, the conformable structure of the inner surface 88 may include a recess, a protrusion, or a recess and a protrusion configured to conform to the boss feature when the drive key body 78 receives the wheel boss 71.

[0050] At least a portion of the conformal structure of the inner surface 88 includes a surface having a surface normal (e.g., a unit vector perpendicular to the surface) having a directional component substantially parallel to the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10 when the drive key body 78 receives the wheel boss 71, such that when the surface contacts the wheel boss 71, the surface resists relative movement of the rotor drive key 76 in at least the radial direction R1. The conformal structure of the inner surface 88 conforms to the boss feature of the wheel boss 71, such that when the drive key body 78 is in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., r- and / or r+), the surface resists relative movement of the rotor drive key 76 in at least the radial direction R1. Figures 3-5 When the wheel is subjected to force, the wheel boss 71 applies an opposite reaction force to the drive key body 78 to keep the drive key body 78 in a radial position that is substantially stationary relative to the wheel 10.

[0051] The conformal structure of the inner surface 88 of the drive key body 78 can be configured to at least partially correspond in shape to a portion of the wheel boss 71. For example, the conformal structure of the inner surface 88 can be a recess defined by the inner surface 88 (e.g., drive key recess 94). Figure 5 The recessed portion is substantially the same in shape as the protruding boss 92. Figure 5The inner surface 88 is a portion of the outer contour of the wheel boss 71. In some examples, the conformal structure of the inner surface 88 may be a protrusion defined by the inner surface 88, the shape of which substantially corresponds to a portion of the recess of the wheel boss 71, or vice versa, or a combination thereof. The conformal structure of the inner surface 88 may be complementary to the surface of the wheel boss 71. For example, the conformal structure of the inner surface 88 may be a concave surface configured to complement the convex surface of the wheel boss 71. Alternatively, the conformal structure of the inner surface 88 may be a convex surface configured to complement the concave surface of the wheel boss 71. The drive key body 78 may be configured to substantially dovetail engage with a portion of the wheel boss 71 such that the inner surface 88 of the drive key body 78 substantially conforms to the wheel boss 71 over a portion of the length of the drive key body 78 (e.g., over some displacement in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10).

[0052] The inner surface 88 of the drive key body 78 is configured to engage with the wheel boss 71 in a dovetail manner by conforming to some portions of the wheel boss 71 when the drive key body 78 translates over the wheel boss 71 in the axial direction A1. For example, the inner surface 88 may define a recess configured to receive a protruding structure of the wheel boss 71, and / or the inner surface 88 may define a protrusion configured to insert into the recess defined by the wheel boss 71. The inner surface 88 is configured such that when the drive key body 78 engages (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) the wheel boss 71 and the drive key body 78 is subjected to force in the radial direction R1 (e.g., r- and / or r+) of the wheel 10, the wheel boss 71 exerts a counteracting force on the drive key body 74 to hold the drive key body 74 in a substantially stationary radial position relative to the wheel 10.

[0053] The drive key body 78 can be configured to resist relative movement of the drive key body 78 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10 when the drive keyway 82 receives the wheel boss 71. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the first key side 96 of the drive key body 78 can substantially face the wheel boss 71 and resist the drive key body 78 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in the direction t-( Figures 3-5 The first side 96 of the key is configured such that when the drive key body 78 is subjected to force in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in the direction t-), the wheel boss 71 applies an opposite reaction force to the drive key body 78 to limit the movement of the drive key body 48 relative to the wheel 10 in the tangential direction T1 (e.g., to keep the drive key body 78 in a substantially stationary tangential position relative to the wheel 10).

[0054] The key base section 98 of the drive key body 78 substantially surrounds the wheel boss 71 and extends from the first key side 96 to the second key side 102. The second key side 102 substantially faces the side of the wheel boss 71, which is opposite to the side facing the first key side 96. The second key side 102 is configured such that when the drive key body 78 is in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in the direction t+( Figures 3-5 When subjected to force, the wheel boss 71 applies an opposite reaction force to the drive key body 78 to limit the movement of the drive key body 78 relative to the wheel 10 in the tangential direction T1 (e.g., to keep the drive key body 78 in a substantially stationary tangential position relative to the wheel 10).

[0055] The first key side 96, the second key side 102, and the key base section 98 may define a drive keyway 82, and the inner surface 88 may include the surface of one or more of the first key side 96, the second key side 102, and the key base section 98. Thus, the inner surface 88 may be configured to hold the drive key body 78 in a substantially stationary tangential position relative to the wheel 10.

[0056] 80-inch convex plate Figure 3 and Figure 4 Extending from the drive key body 78, the tab 80 is configured to support the rotor drive key 76 when the drive keyway 82 receives the wheel boss 71, preventing substantially relative movement in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. The tab 80 includes a tab support surface 106 configured to substantially face a portion of the wheel boss 71 and resist the drive key body 78 in the axial direction A1 (e.g., direction a+( Figure 3 and Figure 4 Movement in the axial direction A1 (e.g., direction a+( Figure 3 and Figure 4 The force acting on the drive key body 78 causes the wheel boss 71 to exert a counterforce on the tab support surface 106, so as to limit the movement of the drive key body 78 relative to the wheel 10 in the axial direction A1 (e.g., to keep the drive key body 78 in a substantially stationary axial position).

[0057] A tab 80 defines a tab hole 110 configured to receive a fastener 108 in the axial direction A1 when the rotor drive key 76 is positioned above the wheel boss 71. When the rotor drive key 76 is positioned above the wheel boss 71 and the fastener 108 extends through the tab hole 110, the tab 80 is configured to engage the wheel boss 71 to substantially prevent relative movement of the drive key body 78 in the axial direction A1 (e.g., in directions a- and / or a+). In some examples, the fastener 108 includes a bolt thread 126 configured to thread-engage with a boss thread 128 defined by the wheel boss 71. In some examples, the fastener 80 is configured to extend through the boss hole 124 and engage a nut (not shown) or other device on the side of the wheel boss 71 opposite the fastener head 122. Thus, the tab 80 can be configured to hold the drive key body 78 in a substantially stationary axial position relative to the wheel 10.

[0058] When the rotor drive key 76 is positioned on the wheel 10, the rotor drive key 76 can be constructed in a manner that substantially fixes the rotor drive key 76 in the radial R1, tangential T1, and axial A1 directions of the wheel 10. The drive key body 78 can be configured such that the rotor drive key 76 can translate axially in the A1 direction above the wheel boss 71 while substantially conforming to the wheel boss 71, thereby potentially allowing for easy assembly and / or disassembly. Radial, tangential, and axial support can be provided in a manner that eliminates the need for bolts, screws, and / or other separate mechanical components extending substantially in the radial direction of the wheel 10.

[0059] Figure 6 A perspective view of an exemplary rotor-driven key 76 is shown, which includes a key body 78, a tab 80, a keyway 82, a first body end 84, a second body end 86, a first key side 96, a key base section 98, a second key side 102, a tab support surface 106, and a tab hole 110. The first key side 96, the second key side 102, and the key base section 98 define the keyway 82. A central longitudinal axis L extends through the keyway 82 between the first key side 96, the second key side 102, and the key base section 98. Figure 6 Including for reference Figures 3-5 The wheels 10 have lines A1, R1, and T1; however, this orientation of the rotor drive key 76 is not required. When the rotor drive key 76 is not mounted on the wheel, the rotor drive key 76 may have any orientation relative to the wheel.

[0060] A drive keyway 82 extends over a length between a first body end 84 and a second body end 86. The drive keyway 82 may substantially originate at the first body end 84 such that it receives the wheel boss 71 when the drive key body 78 is translated over the wheel boss 71 in an axial direction (e.g., direction a+) of the wheel 10. The drive key body 78 may define the drive keyway 82 such that the rotor drive key 76 can be positioned on the wheel 10 (e.g., mounted or removed) by placing the wheel boss 71 within the drive keyway 82 at the first body end 84 and then translating the drive key body 78 over the wheel boss 71 in an axial direction A1 (e.g., direction a+). The inner surface 88 is configured to substantially conform to a portion of the wheel boss 71 when the rotor drive key 76 is positioned on the wheel 10.

[0061] An inner surface 88 extends over at least a portion of the first side 96 of the key and defines a drive key recess 94, which is configured to receive a boss protrusion 92 defined by the outer contour of the wheel boss 71, for example, when the drive key body 78 translates over the wheel boss 71 along the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. The drive key recess 94 is configured to receive the boss protrusion 92 when the boss protrusion 92 is inserted into the drive key recess 94 along the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., when the drive key body 78 translates over the wheel boss 71 along the axial direction A1). The drive key recess 94 is configured to substantially conform to the boss protrusion 92 in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., substantially parallel to the radial R1 and tangential T1 directions). The drive key recess 94 may be configured to engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) the boss protrusion 92 when the drive key recess 94 receives the boss protrusion 92. In some examples, the drive key recess 94 is configured to provide an engineered fit with the boss protrusion 92, such as a sliding fit, a position fit, a transition fit, or an interference fit.

[0062] The drive key recess 94 defines a profile in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, which is configured to allow the boss protrusion 92 to insert into the drive key recess 94 when it approaches the drive key recess 94 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. For example, the drive key recess 94 may receive the boss protrusion 92 when the drive key body 78 translates over the boss protrusion 92 in the axial direction A1 during mounting on the wheel 10. In some examples, the profile may include one or more curved segments, one or more linear segments, or both curved and linear segments. In some examples, the drive key recess 94 may have a concavity about the central longitudinal axis L such that when the drive key body 78 is subjected to force in the radial direction R1 (e.g., r+ and / or r-) of the wheel 10, the first inner surface 90 engages the boss protrusion 92. Therefore, the drive key recess 94 is configured to allow the rotor drive key to translate over the wheel boss 71 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10, while conforming to the wheel boss 71 in a manner that substantially fixes the drive key body 78 to prevent movement in the radial direction R1 (r- and / or r+) of the wheel 10.

[0063] For example, Figure 5 and Figure 6 A first inner surface 90 of the drive key body 78 is shown, defining a drive key recess 94 having a concavity around a central longitudinal axis L. The first inner surface 90 may be configured to substantially surround a portion of a boss protrusion 92 of the wheel boss 71 to substantially resist movement of the drive key body 78 in both the r+ and r- directions, such that when the drive key recess 94 receives the boss protrusion 92, the concavity of the first inner surface 90 substantially fixes the drive key body 78 in a stationary radial position relative to the wheel 10. As shown in Illustration I1 ( Figure 5As shown, the first segment 112 of the first inner surface 90 can be configured such that the first surface normal n1 (e.g., a unit vector) extends perpendicularly from the first segment 112 toward the central longitudinal axis L. The first segment 112 has a positive concavity relative to the first surface normal n1 (e.g., curving toward the first surface normal n1), such that the inner surface 88 is substantially curved around the central longitudinal axis L. When the drive key recess 94 receives the boss protrusion 92, the positive concavity around the first surface normal n1 causes the first segment 112 to engage the boss protrusion 92 and resist relative movement of the drive key body 78 in at least a first radial direction (e.g., direction r-). Therefore, the first segment 112 of the first inner surface 90 is configured such that when a force having a component parallel to the first surface normal n1 is applied to the drive key body 78, the first inner surface 90 transmits this force to the boss protrusion 92, and the boss protrusion 92 applies a reaction force of opposite orientation on the first inner surface 90. The combined force and reaction force of the first inner surface 90 and the boss protrusion 92 substantially fix the drive key body 78 to prevent relative movement with respect to the wheel 10 in the first radial direction (e.g., direction r-).

[0064] In some examples, the first inner surface 90 includes a second segment 114 configured to resist relative movement of the drive key body 78 in a second radial direction (e.g., direction r+) opposite to the first radial direction when the drive key recess 94 receives the boss protrusion 92. The second segment 114 includes a second surface normal n2 extending from the first inner surface 90 toward the central longitudinal axis L, wherein the second segment 114 is configured to have a positive concavity relative to the second surface normal n2 (e.g., curving toward the second surface normal n2). When the drive key recess 94 receives the boss protrusion 92, the positive concavity around the second surface normal n2 causes the second segment 114 to engage the boss protrusion 92 and resist relative movement of the drive key body 78 in the second radial direction (e.g., direction r+). The second segment 114 of the first inner surface 90 is configured such that when a force having a component parallel to the normal n2 of the second surface acts on the drive key body 78, the first inner surface 90 transmits this force to the boss protrusion 92, and the boss protrusion 92 applies a reaction force of opposite orientation on the first inner surface 90. The combined force and reaction force of the first inner surface 90 and the boss protrusion 92 substantially fix the drive key body 78 to prevent relative movement with respect to the wheel 10 in the second radial direction (e.g., direction r+).

[0065] Therefore, the first inner surface 90 is configured such that when the drive key body 78 translates over the wheel boss 71 along the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10, the drive key recess 94 receives the boss protrusion 92 of the wheel boss 71. The drive key recess 94 extends over a certain length of the drive key body between the first body end 84 and the second body end 86. The drive key recess 94 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis L. When the drive key recess 94 receives the boss protrusion 92, at least the first segment 112 and / or the second segment 114 face the boss protrusion 92, such that when the drive key body 78 is subjected to force in the radial direction R1 (e.g., directions r- and / or r+) of the wheel 10, the first segment 112 and / or the second segment 114 transmit the force to the boss protrusion 92, and the boss protrusion 92 applies a reaction force of opposite orientation on the drive key body 78 to substantially fix the drive key body 78 to prevent relative movement with respect to the wheel 10 in the radial direction R1 (e.g., directions r- and / or r+).

[0066] In some examples, the second side 102 of the key includes a second inner surface 116 facing the first inner surface 90 of the key. Figure 5 , Figure 6 The second inner surface 116 may define a second conformal structure, which is configured to substantially conform to the second boss feature of the wheel boss 71. For example, as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the second inner surface 116 may define a drive key recess 118 configured to receive a boss protrusion 120 of the wheel boss 71. The boss protrusion 120 is displaced from the boss protrusion 92 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., on the side of the wheel boss 71 opposite to the boss protrusion 92). The drive key recess 118 may be configured relative to the second inner surface 116 in a configuration similar to that of the drive key recess 94 relative to the first inner surface 90, and may be configured relative to the boss protrusion 120 in a configuration similar to that of the first inner surface 90 relative to the boss protrusion 92. For example, the drive key recess 118 may be configured to receive the boss protrusion 120 when the drive key body 78 translates over the wheel boss 71 in the axial direction A1.

[0067] In some examples, the second inner surface 116 of the second side 102 of the key may include a first segment and a second segment that may be configured relative to the second inner surface 116 in a manner similar to the configuration of the first segment 112 and the second segment 114 of the drive key recess 94 defining the first inner surface 90, and may be configured relative to the boss protrusion 120 in a manner similar to the configuration of the first segment 112 and the second segment 114 relative to the boss protrusion 92. For example, a first portion of the second inner surface 116 may be configured such that when a force in a first radial direction (e.g., direction r-) is applied to the drive key body 78, the second inner surface 116 transmits that force to the boss protrusion 120, and the boss protrusion 120 applies a reaction force in the opposite direction on the second inner surface 116. The second portion of the second inner surface 116 may be configured such that when a force in the second radial direction (e.g., direction r+) acts on the drive key body 78, the second inner surface 116 transmits the force to the boss protrusion 120, and the boss protrusion 120 applies a reaction force in the opposite direction on the second inner surface 116.

[0068] As discussed, when the drive keyway 82 receives the wheel boss 71, the first inner surface 90 of the drive key body 78 can be used to resist the rotor drive key 76 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in the direction t-( Figure 4 , Figure 5 The relative motion between (above) and (below). For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first inner surface 90 can substantially face the wheel boss 71 in a first tangential direction T1 (e.g., direction t-) of the wheel 10. The first surface normal n1 has a directional component from the first segment 112 toward the central longitudinal axis L, such that when the drive key body 78 is subjected to force in the first tangential direction, the first segment 112 can engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) a portion of the wheel boss 71 (e.g., boss protrusion 92). In a similar manner, the second surface normal n2 has a directional component from the second segment 114 toward the central longitudinal axis L, such that when the drive key body 78 is subjected to force in the first tangential direction, the second segment 114 can engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) a portion of the wheel boss 71 (e.g., boss protrusion 92). Therefore, the first inner surface 90 can be configured to transmit force along a first tangential direction to the wheel boss 71 (e.g., via the first segment 112 and / or the second segment 114), such that the wheel boss 71 applies a reaction force in the opposite direction to the first inner surface 90. The combined force and reaction force of the first inner surface 90 and the wheel boss 71 substantially fix the drive key body 78 to prevent relative movement in the first tangential direction (e.g., direction t-).

[0069] The drive key body 78 is configured to surround the wheel boss 71 such that the second inner surface 116 of the key second side 102 substantially faces the side of the wheel boss 71 opposite to the side facing the first inner surface 90, in order to resist relative movement of the drive key body 78 in the second tangential direction T1 (e.g., direction t+) of the wheel 10. When the drive key body 78 is subjected to force in the second tangential direction, a first segment and / or a second segment of the second inner surface 116 may engage (e.g., contact and / or frictional engagement) a portion of the wheel boss 71 (e.g., boss protrusion 120). The second inner surface 116 may be configured to transmit force to the wheel boss 71 in the second tangential direction such that the wheel boss 71 applies a reaction force in the opposite direction to the second inner surface 116. The combined force and reaction force of the second inner surface 116 and the wheel boss 71 substantially fix the drive key body 78 to prevent relative movement in the second tangential direction (e.g., direction t+). As discussed, the second inner surface 116 may include a first segment and a second segment, which may be configured relative to the second inner surface 116 in a manner similar to the configuration of the first segment 112 and the second segment 114 relative to the first inner surface 90, and may be configured relative to the boss protrusion 120 in a manner similar to the configuration of the first segment 112 and the second segment 114 relative to the boss protrusion 92.

[0070] The tab 80 is configured to provide axial support to the drive key body 78 when the drive key recess 94 and / or the drive key recess 118 receives the corresponding boss protrusions 92, 120. The tab 80 may be configured to restrict axial movement of the rotor drive key 76 relative to the wheel 10 (e.g., fixing the rotor drive key 76 to the axial position on the wheel 10) when the drive key recess 94 and / or the drive key recess 118 engages with the corresponding boss protrusions 92, 120 to provide radial and / or tangential support to the rotor drive key 76. For example, the tab 80 may be used to transmit axial forces acting on the rotor drive key 76 to the wheel boss 71 to substantially eliminate movement of the rotor drive key 76 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 when the rotor drive key 76 is positioned on the wheel 10.

[0071] The tab 80 may be located within the drive keyway 82 at a position between or including the first body end 84 and the second body end 86. In the example, the tab 80 is located at or near the second body end 86, and the drive key body 78 is configured to be positioned (e.g., mounted) above the wheel boss 71, with the first body end 84 serving as the leading edge and unaffected by the tab 80.

[0072] The tab 80 is configured to allow the drive key body 78 to be positioned on the wheel 10 by axially translating the drive key body 78 at least above the wheel boss 71, such that the drive key recess 94 and / or the drive key recess 118 receive corresponding boss protrusions 92, 120 during axial translation. The tab 80 is configured to encounter the wheel boss 71 during axial translation and resist the drive key body 78 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in direction a+( Figures 3-6 Continue translating (on). Fastener 108 ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 A tab 80 can be inserted through both the tab 80 and the wheel boss 71 to restrict movement of the tab 80 relative to the wheel boss 71, for example, to fix the tab 80 in a substantially stationary position relative to the wheel boss 71. The tab 80 is configured to establish and / or maintain mechanical communication with a portion of the drive key body 78 (e.g., the key base section 98, the first key side 96, and / or the second key side 102), such that the axial reaction force from the wheel boss 71 and / or the fastener 108 to the tab support surface 106 is at least partially transmitted to other portions of the drive key body 78, and substantially fixes the rotor drive key 76 to prevent movement in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10.

[0073] The tab 80 may limit the extent to which axial translation of the rotor drive key 76 over the wheel boss 71 may occur. For example, when the rotor drive key 76 is intended to be positioned over one or more of the wheel bosses 72-74 in addition to the wheel boss 71, the tab 80 may be positioned to ensure that the drive keyway 82 has sufficient axial length to at least partially surround each of the applicable wheel bosses before the tab 80 encounters the wheel boss 71.

[0074] like Figures 3-6 As shown, the tab 80 includes a tab support surface 106, which is configured to substantially face a portion of the wheel boss 71 and resist the drive key body 78 in the axial direction A1 (e.g., direction a+). Figure 3 , Figure 4 Movement in the axial direction a+( Figure 3 , Figure 4 The force acting on the drive key body 78 causes the wheel boss 71 to exert a reaction force on the tab support surface 106 in the axial direction a-, so as to hold the drive key body 78 in a substantially stationary axial position. In some examples, the tab support surface 106 is a substantially planar surface. In addition, or alternatively, in other examples, the tab support surface 106 includes a surface defining a curvature. Additionally, in some examples, the tab support surface 106 defines a surface that is configured to substantially conform to a portion of the wheel boss 71.

[0075] As discussed, the tab 80 can be fixed in a substantially stationary position relative to the wheel boss 71. The tab 80 includes a tab hole 110 configured to receive a fastener 108 extending along a substantially axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 to secure the rotor drive key 76 relative to the wheel 10 and limit relative movement of the rotor drive key 76 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in directions a- and / or a+). The tab hole 110 is configured to engage the tab 80 with the fastener 108 when the fastener 108 extends through the tab hole 110 and enters the wheel boss 71. For example, the tab hole 110 can be configured such that when the shank of the fastener 108 extends through the tab hole 110 and engages with the wheel boss 71 (e.g., threaded engagement), the fastener head 122 of the fastener 108 is used to compress a portion of the tab 80 (e.g., around the periphery of the tab hole 110). When fastener 108 engages wheel boss 71, tab hole 110 substantially holds a portion of tab 80 (e.g., the portion of tab 80 surrounding tab hole 110) between fastener head 122 and wheel boss 71, so as to keep tab 80 and drive key body 78 substantially stationary relative to wheel boss 71. In the example, central longitudinal axis L extends from first body end 84 to second body end 86 between key first side 96, key second side 102 and key base section 98, and passes through tab hole 110. In some examples, when fastener 108 engages wheel boss 71, central longitudinal axis extends through a portion of fastener 108.

[0076] Fastener 108 can engage wheel boss 71 in a manner that substantially secures fastener 108 to prevent relative movement of wheel 10 in at least the axial direction A1. Fastener 108 can be engaged via, for example, wheel boss 71 ( Figures 3-5 The defined boss hole 124 extends into the wheel boss 71. In some examples, the fastener 108 includes a bolt thread 126 configured to threadly engage with a boss thread 128 defined by the wheel boss 71 within the boss hole 124, and to hold the fastener 108 in a substantially stationary position relative to the wheel boss 71. The bolt thread 126 may be an external thread, and the boss thread 128 may be an internal thread. In some examples, the fastener 108 may extend through the boss hole 124 and threadly engage with a nut or other fastening device configured to hold the fastener 108 substantially stationary relative to the wheel boss 71.

[0077] In some examples, fastener 108 is configured to substantially retain tab support surface 106 in contact with wheel boss 71, and / or retain tab support surface 106 in contact with one or more materials (e.g., compression washers) between tab support surface 106 and wheel boss 71. Fastener 108 may be configured to substantially retain a portion of tab 80 (e.g., the portion of tab 80 surrounding tab hole 110) substantially between fastener head 122 and wheel boss 71 when fastener 108 (e.g., by threading onto wheel boss 71, or extending through boss hole 124 and engaging a nut) is fastened to wheel boss 71. For example, fastener 108 may have a flange 123 ( Figure 3 The flange bolt is configured to substantially confine the tab 80 between the head of the fastener 108 and the wheel boss 71 when the fastener 108 is tightened to the wheel boss 71.

[0078] In some examples, the rotor drive key 76 may include a locking mechanism (not shown) configured to rotatably lock the fastener 108 in place. In some such examples, the locking mechanism may include one or more of a locking plate, retainer clamp, locking washer, Nord locking washer, nylon insert, retainer pin, castle locking device, adhesive, safety wire, safety cable, retainer clamp, etc. Figure 4 and Figure 5 A heat shield 130 that can be deployed on the inner surface 14 of the wheel 10 is also depicted.

[0079] Therefore, when the rotor drive key 76 is positioned on the wheel 10, the rotor drive key 76 can be constructed in a manner that restricts (e.g., prevents or substantially prevents) relative movement in the radial R1, tangential T1, and axial A1 directions of the wheel 10. The inner surface 88 can be configured to dovetail engage with the wheel boss 71 in a manner that substantially fixes the movement of the rotor drive key 76 in at least the radial direction R1 of the wheel (e.g., in directions r+ and / or r-). The drive keyway 82 can partially surround the wheel boss 71 to substantially fix the rotor drive key 76 to prevent movement in at least the tangential direction T1 of the wheel (e.g., in directions t+ and / or t-). The tab support surface 106 of the tab 80 can be configured to act against the wheel boss 71 to resist relative movement of the rotor drive key 76 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in direction a+). Fastener 108 extends through tab 80 and engages wheel boss 71 to keep tab support surface 106 opposite to wheel boss 71 and substantially secure rotor drive key 76 to prevent relative movement in the axial direction A1 of wheel 10 (e.g., in direction a-). Therefore, radial, tangential, and axial support can be provided in a manner that eliminates the need for bolts and / or screws extending substantially in the radial direction of wheel 10. Additionally, inner surface 88 can be configured to allow rotor drive key 76 to translate axially in the direction A1 above wheel boss 71 while substantially conforming to wheel boss 71, potentially allowing for easy assembly and / or disassembly.

[0080] In some examples, the drive key body and the tabs have an integral (or one-piece) construction and cannot be separated from each other without adversely affecting the structural integrity of the drive key body and / or the tabs. In other examples, the drive key body and the tabs are separable components of the rotor drive key. For example, Figure 7 An exemplary assembly including a rotor drive key 136 and a removable tab 158 is shown, the removable tab being physically separate from the rotor drive key 136 and configured to be mechanically connected to the rotor drive key. The rotor drive key 136 includes a drive key body 138, a first body end 140, a second body end 142, a first key side 144 defining a drive key recess 154, a key base section 146, a second key side 148 defining the drive key recess 156, a drive keyway 150, and an inner surface 152, which can be constructed individually and in relation to each other in the same manner as discussed for similarly named components for the rotor drive key 76. The removable tab 158 defines a tab support surface 160 and a tab hole 162.

[0081] A removable tab 158 is configured to insert into a recess 164 defined by a drive key body 138. The support recess 164 may be located within the drive keyway 150 between or including the first body end 140 and the second body end 142. In one example, the support recess 164 is substantially located at the second body end 142, and the drive key body 138 is configured to receive a wheel boss 71 via the first body end 140 as its front end. Figures 3-5 The tab 158 may include a tab protrusion 166 configured to insert into a support recess 164. The tab protrusion 166 may be configured to provide an engineered fit within the support recess 164, such as a sliding fit, position fit, transition fit, or interference fit. When the tab protrusion 166 is inserted into the support recess 164, the tab 158, tab support surface 160, and tab hole 162 may be constructed individually and in relation to the other components of the rotor drive key 136 in the same manner as discussed for the tab 80, tab support surface 106, and tab hole 110 relative to the other components of the rotor drive key 76.

[0082] The use of a detachable tab 158 allows the tab 158 and the drive key body 138 to be constructed from different materials and enhances the manufacturability of the drive key body 138. For example, the drive key body 138 may have substantially similar cross-sections (perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis L) between the first body end 140 and the second body end 142, thereby allowing the drive key body 138 to be at least partially formed as an extrusion or drawing. This simplifies the use of materials such as extruded composites, specific insulating materials, or other specific materials that may be more difficult to form using non-extrusion (or drawing) manufacturing methods.

[0083] As discussed, in some examples, the rotor drive key may define a protrusion that is configured to insert into a recess in the wheel boss when the rotor drive key translates over the wheel boss in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. For example, Figure 8 A cross-section of an exemplary rotor drive key 176 positioned above a wheel boss 171 is depicted, wherein the cross-section passes through the wheel boss 171 and is cut perpendicular to the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. The rotor drive key 176 includes a drive key body 178, a first key side 180, a key base segment 182, a second key side 184, an inner surface 186, a drive keyway 188, and a boss hole 190, which can be constructed individually and in relation to each other in the same manner as discussed for similarly named components of rotor drive keys 76 and 136. A central longitudinal axis L (perpendicular to the page) extends through the boss hole 190.

[0084] like Figure 8As shown, the first inner surface 192 of the drive key body 178 defines a key protrusion 194, which is configured to insert into a boss recess 196 defined by the wheel boss 171 when the drive key body 178 translates over the wheel boss 171 along the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. The key protrusion 194 may be configured to substantially conform to the boss recess 196 in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., substantially parallel to the radial R1 and tangential T1 directions). A first segment 198 of the first inner surface 192 defines a third surface normal n3 ( Figure 8 (See illustration I2), the third surface normal has a directional component parallel to the radial direction R1 (e.g., parallel to the radial direction r-) of the wheel 10. The first segment 198 has a negative concavity relative to the third surface normal n3 (e.g., it is curved away from the third surface normal n3).

[0085] The key protrusion 194 defines a profile in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, which is configured to insert into the boss recess 196. In some examples, the profile may include one or more curved segments, one or more linear segments, or both curved and linear segments. When the key protrusion 194 is inserted into the boss recess 196, the third surface normal n3 intersects the boss recess 196, such that driving the key protrusion 194 substantially prevents relative movement of the key body 178 in the radial direction R1 (e.g., in the radial direction r-). The key protrusion 194 is configured such that when the key protrusion 194 is inserted into the boss recess 196 and the key body 178 is subjected to force in the radial direction r-, the boss recess 196 applies a reaction force on the key protrusion 194 in the radial direction r+ to hold the key body 178 in a substantially stationary radial position relative to the wheel 10.

[0086] The key protrusion 194 may include defining a fourth surface normal n4 ( Figure 8 The second segment 202 (illustration I2) has a fourth surface normal having a directional component parallel to the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., parallel to the radial direction r+). The second segment 202 has a negative concavity relative to the fourth surface normal n4 (e.g., curved away from the fourth surface normal n4). When the key protrusion 194 is inserted into the boss recess 196, the fourth surface normal n4 may intersect the boss recess 196, such that when the drive key body 178 is subjected to force in the radial direction r+, the boss recess 196 applies a reaction force in the radial direction r- on the key protrusion 194. The first segment 198 and / or the second segment 202 may engage the boss recess 196 to substantially restrict the drive key body 178 to prevent movement relative to the wheel 10 in the radial direction R1.

[0087] The key protrusion 194 extends along a certain length of the drive key body 178 between a first body end (not shown) and a second body end (not shown) of the drive key body 178 (e.g., along a certain segment of the central longitudinal axis L). The key protrusion 194 may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis L.

[0088] In some examples, the second key side 184 of the drive key body 178 includes a second inner surface 204 facing the first inner surface 192 of the key first side 180. The second inner surface 204 defines a key protrusion 206 configured to substantially conform to the boss recess 208 of the wheel boss 171. For example, as... Figure 8 As shown, the second inner surface 204 may define a key protrusion 206, which is configured to insert into the boss recess 208 when the drive key body 178 translates over the wheel boss 171 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. The boss recess 208 is displaced from the boss recess 196 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., on the side of the wheel boss 171 opposite to the boss protrusion 196). The key protrusion 206 may be configured relative to the second inner surface 204 in a configuration similar to that of the key protrusion 194 relative to the first inner surface 192, and may be configured relative to the boss recess 208 in a configuration similar to that of the first inner surface 192 relative to the boss recess 196.

[0089] The rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176 and fastener 108, as well as the other components described herein, can be made of any suitable material. For example, the material can be any material that has adequate strength for the intended use of the rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176, or fastener 108. In some examples, the material includes metals or metal alloys. For example, the material may include a nickel alloy or a steel alloy. As an example, the material may include stainless steel.

[0090] In some examples, rotor drive keys 76, 136, and 176 may be produced by forging, casting, manufacturing, additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing), extrusion, stretching, or using other suitable methods. In some examples, rotor drive keys 76, 136, and 176 may be machined to form rotor drive keys 76, 136, and 176, which define one or more of tab 80, tab hole 110, first key side 96, second key side 102, and key base segment 98. In other examples, rotor drive keys 76, 136, and 176 may be formed without basic machining.

[0091] In some examples, fastener 108 may be forged, cast, manufactured, additively manufactured (e.g., 3D printed), or produced using other suitable methods. In some examples, fastener 108 may be machined to obtain one or more of the following: bolt thread 126, fastener flange 123, fastener head 122, or other components of fastener 108. In other examples, fastener 108 may be formed without basic machining.

[0092] In some examples, wheel 10 may be precision machined from a near-net-shape aluminum forging and includes wheel bosses to assemble rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176 onto wheel 10 using fasteners 108 extending through, for example, wheel bosses 71, 171 and tab 80. In other examples, wheel 10 may be manufactured in a different manner. In still other examples, wheel 10 may be obtained instead of manufactured. In some examples, wheel 10 may be obtained and machined to form an internal surface 14 comprising a plurality of wheel bosses. Wheel 10 may be made of any suitable material. In some examples, wheel 10 comprises a metal or metal alloy. For example, wheel 10 may comprise aluminum, nickel alloy, steel alloy (e.g., stainless steel), titanium, carbon composite, or magnesium.

[0093] Wheel 10 may include any number of wheel bosses and any number of rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176. Wheel bosses (including wheel bosses 71-74) projecting from the inner surface 14 may extend from adjacent portions of the inner surface 14 in a substantially radial direction. Wheel bosses may extend radially inward than the corresponding portions of the inner surface 14 adjacent to them. In some examples, wheel bosses may have any suitable height in the substantially radial direction. Furthermore, multiple wheel bosses may include wheel bosses with the same or substantially the same height, or wheel bosses with different heights. Similarly, multiple wheel bosses may include wheel bosses with the same or substantially the same width, or wheel bosses with different widths. In some examples, wheel bosses may exist around the inner surface 14 of wheel 10 at substantially equal circumferential distances. In other examples, one or more of the multiple wheel bosses may exist at different circumferential distances from adjacent wheel bosses. Additionally, wheel bosses may be spaced apart from each other at any suitable distance in the axial direction of wheel 10.

[0094] Figure 9This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary technique 900 for attaching a rotor drive key to the inner surface of a wheel. While the technique is described with reference to specific exemplary rotor drive keys, fasteners, and wheel bosses described herein, it can be used with other exemplary components described herein. Technique 900 includes placing rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176 (902) with conformal features (e.g., drive key recesses 94, 118 and / or key protrusions 194, 206) around a portion of wheel bosses 71, 171 on the inner surface 14 of the wheel 10. For example, an operator can introduce one or more wheel bosses 71, 171 into drive keyways 82, 150, 188 defined by the inner surfaces 88, 152, 186 of the drive key bodies 78, 138, 178, and translate the rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176 over the wheel bosses 71, 171 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. In some examples, when the rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176 translate over the wheel bosses 71, 171, the boss protrusions 92, 120 defined by the respective wheel bosses are received in the respective drive key recesses 94, 118, and / or the key protrusions 194, 206 defined by the rotor drive keys are received in the boss recesses 196, 208 defined by the respective wheel bosses.

[0095] In some examples, the operator can slide the rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176 along the wheel bosses 71, 171 until the corresponding tabs 80, 106, 158 engage with the support surfaces of the corresponding wheel bosses 71, 171 or with one or more materials between the tabs and the wheel bosses 71, 171, such that the tabs act as stops. At the tab 158 and drive key body 138 ( Figure 7 In the example of separation, the operator can connect the tab 158 and the drive key body 138, for example, by inserting the tab protrusion 166 into the tab recess 164 of the drive key body 138.

[0096] After the rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176 are positioned above the wheel bosses 71, 171 such that the corresponding tabs 80, 106, 158 engage the support surfaces of the corresponding wheel bosses 71, 171 or otherwise approach the support surfaces, the operator can position the fastener 108 through the rotor drive keys 76, 136, 176 (904). For example, the operator can position the fastener 108 extending in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 through the tab holes 110, 162 of the tabs 80, 158 and into the boss holes 124, 190. In some examples, the user places a washer and / or shim between the fastener head 122 and the tabs 80, 158. The operator can engage a locking mechanism with the fastener 108 (e.g., inserting a retainer through the fastener head 122, placing a locking plate between the fastener head 122 and the tab 80, etc.) to secure the position of the fastener 108 relative to the rotor drive keys.

[0097] An operator can engage fastener 108 and wheel 10 (906). For example, an operator can thread the bolt threads 126 and the boss threads 128 of wheel bosses 71, 171. In some examples, the operator applies torque to fastener head 122 to engage bolt threads 126 and boss threads 128. Twisting fastener head 122 can compress a portion of tabs 80, 158 (e.g., the portion surrounding tab holes 110, 162) between fastener head 122 and wheel bosses 71, 171.

[0098] Although the technical description is based on the operator's instructions Figure 9 However, in some examples, Figure 9 All or part of the technology shown can be performed automatically by a machine.

[0099] Various examples have been described. These and other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A rotor drive key, comprising: A drive key body defines a groove configured to receive a wheel boss of a wheel and is configured to be positioned between the wheel boss and the wheel axle, wherein the groove is at least partially defined by an inner surface of the drive key body, wherein the inner surface is configured to conform to a portion of the outer contour of the wheel boss when the groove receives the wheel boss, wherein when the inner surface conforms to the portion of the outer contour, the inner surface of the drive key body is configured to restrict the movement of the drive key body toward the wheel axle in a radial direction; and A tab is configured to extend from the drive key body, wherein the tab defines a tab hole that extends through the tab in the axial direction of the wheel when the wheel boss is received in the slot.

2. The rotor drive key according to claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the drive key body is configured to restrict the movement of the drive key body in the radial direction of the wheel when the wheel boss is received in the groove.

3. The rotor drive key of claim 1, wherein the tab is configured to restrict movement of the drive key body in the axial direction of the wheel when the wheel boss is received in the slot and the tab is connected to the drive key body.

4. The rotor drive key according to claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the drive key body is configured to allow sliding translation between the drive key body and the wheel boss along the axial direction of the wheel.

5. The rotor drive key of claim 4, wherein the inner surface defines a recess, a protrusion, or a recess and a protrusion, the recess and the protrusion being configured to conform to a portion of the outer contour of the wheel boss when the groove receives the wheel boss.

6. The rotor drive key of claim 1, wherein the drive key body includes a key base segment defining a substantially U-shaped cross-section, a first key side, and a second key side, wherein the inner surface includes one or more of the first key side or the second key side.

7. The rotor drive key of claim 1 further includes a fastener configured to extend through the tab hole and into the wheel boss.

8. The rotor drive key of claim 1, wherein the tab is separable from the drive key body, wherein the tab defines a tab protrusion, and wherein the drive key body defines a support recess configured to receive the tab protrusion.

9. A method for attaching a rotor drive key to the inner surface of a wheel, comprising: A rotor drive key for positioning a groove around a wheel boss, wherein the groove is at least partially defined by an inner surface of the rotor drive key, wherein the inner surface is configured to conform to a portion of the outer contour of the wheel boss, and wherein positioning the rotor drive key around the wheel boss includes slidably translating the rotor drive key in the axial direction of the wheel to position the rotor drive key between the wheel boss and the wheel axis, and wherein when the inner surface conforms to the portion of the outer contour, the inner surface is configured to restrict movement of the rotor drive key in the radial direction toward the wheel axis; as well as The fastener extends through the rotor drive key and into the wheel boss in the axial direction of the wheel.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising contacting the outer contour of the wheel boss protruding in the tangential direction of the wheel with the inner surface of the rotor drive key having a concavity toward the wheel boss.

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