Rotor drive key assembly

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "Rotor Drive Key Assembly." In some examples, a rotor drive key assembly configured to be positioned on a vehicle wheel includes an insert and a rotor drive key. The insert is configured to cooperate with a wheel boss of the vehicle wheel and mechanically connect the rotor drive key with the wheel boss. The rotor drive key is configured to cooperate with the insert such that the insert limits movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel boss in at least a radial direction of the vehicle wheel. In some examples, the rotor drive key includes a tab having a tab aperture configured to receive a fastener extending in an axial direction of the vehicle 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 brake assemblies. For example, such a multi-disc brake assembly may include multiple rotors engaged with a wheel and multiple stators interleaved with the rotors. The rotors and wheel are configured to rotate about an axis, while the stators remain stationary. To slow the rotational motion of the rotating wheel, the brake 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 rotor drive key assembly includes a rotor drive key configured to be positioned above a wheel boss defined by a wheel and an insert. The insert is configured to engage with the wheel boss and mechanically connect the rotor drive key to the wheel boss. In some examples, the insert is configured to engage with the wheel boss such that the wheel boss restricts movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in at least a radial direction of the wheel. The insert may be configured to engage with the wheel boss when the insert is translated over the wheel boss in a tangential direction of the wheel. The rotor drive key is configured to engage with the insert such that the insert (when engaging with the wheel boss) restricts movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel boss in at least a radial direction of the wheel. The rotor drive key may be configured to engage with the insert when the rotor drive key is translated over the insert in an axial direction of the wheel.

[0004] In some examples, the rotor drive key defines a substantially U-shaped cross-section configured to at least partially surround the insert and wheel boss when the insert engages with the wheel boss and the rotor drive key engages with the insert. The rotor drive key may be configured such that when the rotor drive key is subjected to force in the tangential direction of the wheel, the U-shaped cross-section causes the rotor drive key to engage the wheel boss, thereby limiting relative movement of the rotor drive key. The rotor drive key may be configured such that the insert engages portions of the U-shaped cross-section to limit movement of the insert in the tangential direction of the wheel. In examples, the insert is configured to translate over the wheel boss in the tangential direction of the wheel to engage with the wheel boss, and when the rotor drive key engages with the insert, the U-shaped cross-section is configured to prevent tangential movement of the insert, such that the insert is substantially captured within the assembly by the rotor drive key and the wheel boss.

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

[0006] Option 1: An assembly comprising: an insert configured to engage with a wheel boss of a wheel; and a rotor drive key configured to engage with the insert, wherein the insert is configured to mechanically connect the rotor drive key to the wheel boss, and wherein when the insert mechanically connects the rotor drive key to the wheel boss, the insert is located between the rotor drive key and the wheel boss.

[0007] Option 2: The component according to Option 1, wherein the insert defines at least one of the following: a recess configured to receive a protrusion defined by a wheel boss, or a protrusion configured to be inserted into a recess defined by a wheel boss to engage with a wheel boss.

[0008] Option 3: The component according to Option 2 or 3, wherein the rotor drive key defines at least one of the following: a recess configured to receive a protrusion defined by the insert, or a protrusion configured to be inserted into the recess defined by the insert to engage with the insert.

[0009] Option 4: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 3, wherein the insert is configured to translate over the wheel boss in a substantially tangential direction of the wheel to engage with the wheel boss.

[0010] Option 5: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 4, wherein the insert is configured to restrict the movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in the substantially radial direction of the wheel when the insert engages with the wheel boss.

[0011] Option 6: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 5, wherein the insert is configured to restrict the movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in the substantially lateral direction of the wheel when the insert engages with the wheel boss.

[0012] Option 7: The assembly according to any one of Options 1 to 6, wherein the rotor drive key is configured to translate over the insert in the substantially axial direction of the wheel to engage with the insert.

[0013] Option 8: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 7, wherein the insert is configured to restrict the movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel boss in the substantially radial direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key engages with the insert and the insert engages with the wheel boss.

[0014] Option 9: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 8, wherein the rotor drive key is configured to restrict the movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in the substantially tangential direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key engages with the insert and the insert engages with the wheel boss.

[0015] Option 10: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 9, wherein the rotor drive key is configured to receive a fastener in the substantially axial direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key engages with the insert and the insert engages with the wheel boss.

[0016] Option 11: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 10, wherein the fastener is configured to engage a portion of the wheel, including the wheel boss, when the rotor drive key receives the fastener in the substantially axial direction of the wheel and when the rotor drive key engages with the insert and the insert engages with the wheel boss.

[0017] Option 12: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 11, wherein: the insert is configured to restrict the movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in the axial direction and in the radial direction of the wheel when the insert engages with the wheel boss; and the rotor drive key is configured to restrict the movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in the tangential direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key engages with the insert and the insert engages with the wheel boss.

[0018] Option 13: The component according to any one of Options 1 to 12, wherein: the insert is configured to apply a reaction force to the rotor drive key in the substantially radial direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key engages with the insert and the insert engages with the wheel boss; and the insert is configured to apply a portion of the reaction force to the wheel boss when the insert engages with the wheel boss.

[0019] Option 14: An assembly comprising: a wheel boss extending in a substantially radial direction of the wheel and defining a boss protrusion projecting in a substantially axial direction of the wheel; an insert defining an insert recess configured to receive the boss protrusion, wherein the insert defines an insert protrusion projecting in a substantially tangential direction of the wheel; and a rotor drive key defining a key recess configured to receive the insert protrusion.

[0020] Option 15: The component according to Option 14, wherein the insert is configured to receive the boss protrusion when the insert is translated on the wheel boss in a substantially tangential direction of the wheel.

[0021] Option 16: The component according to Option 15, wherein the key recess is configured to receive the insert protrusion when the insert recess receives the boss protrusion and the rotor drives the key to translate over the insert in the substantially axial direction of the wheel.

[0022] Option 17: The component according to Option 15 or 16 further includes a fastener, wherein the rotor drive key is configured to receive the fastener in the substantially axial direction of the wheel, and the fastener is configured to engage the wheel boss and restrict movement of the rotor drive key in the substantially axial direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key receives the fastener.

[0023] Option 18: A method comprising: engaging an insert with a wheel boss of a wheel, wherein the wheel boss extends in a substantially radial direction of the wheel; and mechanically connecting a rotor drive key and the wheel boss, wherein mechanically connecting the rotor drive key and the wheel boss comprises engaging the rotor drive key with the insert, and wherein the insert is located between the rotor drive key and the wheel boss when the insert mechanically connects the rotor drive key to the wheel boss.

[0024] Option 19: The method according to Option 18 further includes, when the rotor drive key engages with the insert, causing the fastener to extend through the rotor drive key and enter the wheel boss in the substantially axial direction of the wheel.

[0025] Option 20: The method according to Option 18 or 19, wherein engaging the insert with the wheel boss includes translating the insert above the wheel boss in a substantially tangential direction of the wheel, and wherein engaging the rotor drive key with the insert includes translating the rotor drive key above the insert in a substantially axial direction of the wheel.

[0026] This article also describes exemplary techniques for attaching rotor drive keys to the internal surface of a wheel.

[0027] 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

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary wheel that includes multiple rotor drive keys on the inner surface of the wheel.

[0029] Figure 2 It includes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary wheel and brake assembly.

[0030] Figure 3 It is a plan view of an exemplary assembly including a rotor drive key and an insert on the inner surface of the wheel, having a selected cross section.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of an exemplary rotor drive key and an exemplary insert on the inner surface of the wheel.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an exemplary insert.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of an exemplary rotor drive key.

[0034] Figure 7A This is a plan view of a section of an exemplary insert and an exemplary wheel boss.

[0035] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A Another plan view of the section of the exemplary insert and the exemplary wheel boss.

[0036] Figure 8A It is a plan view of a section of an exemplary rotor drive key, an exemplary insert, and an exemplary wheel boss, having a selected cross section.

[0037] Figure 8B It has Figure 8B Another plan view of a selected section of the rotor drive key, insert, and wheel boss section.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a section of an exemplary rotor drive key and a removable tab.

[0039] Figure 10A It is a plan view with a selected section of a segment having a prominent exemplary rotor drive key, an exemplary insert, and an exemplary wheel boss.

[0040] Figure 10B It has Figure 10A A plan view of a selected section of a segment having a prominent exemplary rotor drive key, an exemplary insert, and an exemplary wheel boss.

[0041] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary technique for attaching a rotor drive key to the inner surface of a wheel. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This disclosure describes articles, systems, and techniques related to rotor drive keys in a vehicle's wheel braking system, as well as assemblies for attaching rotor drive keys to vehicle wheels. In some examples, the rotor drive key assembly includes a rotor drive key and an insert configured to mechanically attach the rotor drive key to a wheel boss. The rotor drive key assembly 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 assembly is configured to be 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 manufacturing tolerances), and the rotor drive key assembly may extend in a substantially axial direction of the wheel (e.g., axial or substantially axial within manufacturing tolerances) when positioned over the wheel boss.

[0043] In some examples, the insert is configured to mate with the wheel boss, and the rotor drive key is configured to mate with the insert. When the insert mates with the wheel boss and the rotor drive key mates with the insert, the insert is positioned between the rotor drive key and the wheel boss. The insert serves to mechanically connect the rotor drive key and the wheel boss such that when the rotor drive key is subjected to force in at least the radial direction of the wheel, the insert transmits a portion of the force to the wheel boss. The wheel boss serves to apply a counteracting force on the insert, and the insert serves to apply a counteracting force on the rotor drive key to limit the movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel boss.

[0044] An insert can be configured to engage with a wheel boss when it translates tangentially over the wheel boss. The insert is configured such that, when engaged with the wheel boss, a force applied to the insert in the radial direction of the wheel is transmitted to the wheel boss, and the wheel boss exerts a counteracting force on the insert to limit the relative movement of the insert (e.g., movement relative to the wheel boss). Alternatively, the insert can be configured such that, when engaged with the wheel boss, the force acting on the insert in the axial direction of the wheel is transmitted to the wheel boss, causing the wheel boss to exert a counteracting axial force on the insert. Therefore, the engagement between the insert and the wheel boss results in the insert transmitting forces to the wheel boss in both the axial and radial directions of the wheel. The counteracting force exerted by the wheel boss limits the relative movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in both the axial and radial directions of the wheel.

[0045] The rotor drive key can be configured to engage with the insert when it translates over the insert in the axial direction of the wheel. The rotor drive key is configured such that, when engaged with the insert, a force applied to the rotor drive key in at least the radial direction of the wheel is transmitted to the insert. When the insert engages with the wheel boss, the transmission of the radial force by the rotor drive key causes the insert to exert a reverse reaction force to limit the movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel boss in the radial direction of the wheel. Therefore, the engagement between the rotor drive key and the insert (when the insert engages with the wheel boss) results in the rotor drive key transmitting a force to the insert in the radial direction of the wheel. The reverse reaction force exerted by the insert limits the relative movement of the rotor drive key relative to the insert in at least the radial direction of the wheel.

[0046] The rotor drive key can have any suitable configuration, according to the examples described herein, that enables it to mate with an insert. In some examples, the rotor drive key includes a key base section, a first key side, and a second key side, wherein the first and second key sides extend from the key base section to define a substantially U-shaped cross-section such that, when the rotor drive key mates with the insert, it can at least partially surround a wheel boss. The first and / or second key sides can be configured to engage one side of the wheel boss (e.g., a side extending along the axial direction of the wheel) when the rotor drive key is subjected to force in the tangential direction of the wheel. The first and / or second key sides can transmit tangential forces to the wheel boss such that the wheel boss exerts a counteracting force on the first and / or second key sides to limit movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel boss in the tangential direction of the wheel. The rotor drive key can be configured to at least partially surround the insert such that the rotor drive key captures the insert to resist movement relative to the wheel boss in the tangential direction of the wheel.

[0047] The engagement between the insert and the wheel boss can be established using any suitable structure. For example, in some examples, the insert defines an insert recess configured to receive a wheel boss protrusion and / or an insert protrusion configured to insert into the recess defined by the wheel boss. In some examples, the boss protrusion may taper outward in a direction toward the central axis of rotation of the wheel, and the insert has a corresponding inner surface defining the insert recess. In some examples, in addition to or instead of the insert recess, the axially extending protrusion defined by the insert may be configured to insert into the boss recess when the insert is translated tangentially over the wheel boss, wherein the protrusion of the insert is configured such that a force applied to the insert in the radial direction of the wheel is transmitted to the wheel boss.

[0048] The engagement between the rotor drive key and the insert can be established using any suitable structure. For example, in some examples, the rotor drive key defines a key recess configured to receive an insert protrusion defined by the insert and / or a key protrusion configured to insert into a recess defined by the insert. In some examples, the key recess is configured to extend inward in the tangential direction of the wheel to receive an insert protrusion extending outward in the tangential direction of the wheel. In some examples, in addition to or instead of the key recess, the tangentially extending protrusion defined by the rotor drive key may be configured to insert into a recess defined by the insert when the rotor drive key is translated axially over the insert. The protrusion of the rotor drive key may be configured such that forces on the rotor drive key in the radial direction of the wheel are transmitted to the insert.

[0049] In some examples, the rotor drive key also includes a tab configured to resist relative movement of the rotor drive key in the axial direction of the wheel when it engages with the insert. The tab may define a tab support surface configured to engage a portion of the wheel (e.g., a wheel boss) when the rotor drive key engages with the insert. The tab may be configured to establish and / or maintain a mechanical connection between the rotor drive key and the wheel (e.g., a wheel boss) such that axial reaction forces from the wheel are transmitted to the rotor drive key and substantially fix the rotor drive against movement in the axial direction of the wheel.

[0050] In some examples, the tab is configured to receive a fastener in a substantially axial direction of the wheel. The fastener may be configured to extend through the tab (e.g., through a tab bore) into a portion of the wheel (e.g., a wheel boss). The fastener may engage the wheel boss (e.g., via a threaded engagement) to substantially hold the tab of the rotor drive key in a specific position relative to the wheel. For example, the fastener may substantially maintain contact between the tab and a portion of the wheel, and / or maintain contact between the tab and one or more materials (e.g., compression washers) between the tab and said portion of the wheel.

[0051] When the insert mates with the wheel boss, the rotor drive key mates with the insert, and the fastener extends axially through the rotor drive key and into a portion of the wheel (e.g., the wheel boss), the rotor drive key can be substantially anchored to resist relative movement in the axial, tangential, and radial directions of the wheel. As used herein, relative movement of the rotor drive key refers to the movement of the rotor drive key relative to the wheel (e.g., the wheel boss) when the rotor drive key mates with the insert and the insert mates with the wheel boss. Relative movement of the insert refers to the movement of the insert relative to the wheel (e.g., the wheel boss) when the insert mates with the wheel boss. Thus, in some examples, when the wheel, rotor drive key, and insert together undergo movement (e.g., radial, tangential, and / or axial) measured with reference to a point removed from the wheel and rotor drive key, the rotor drive key and / or insert can undergo relatively zero movement in the radial, tangential, and / or axial directions.

[0052] The exemplary rotor drive key assembly described herein is configured to be secured against the inner surface of the wheel using an insert that mates with a wheel boss, a rotor drive key that mates with the insert, and a tab configured in some examples to encounter a portion of the wheel. For example, the insert may be configured to transmit at least radial force on the rotor drive key to the wheel boss. As another example, in an example where the rotor drive key defines a first side and a second side of the key, thereby defining a U-shaped cross-section, the rotor drive key is configured such that the first side and / or the second side of the key transmit tangential force on the rotor drive key to the wheel boss. The tab is configured to transmit axial force on the rotor drive key to the wheel boss. This radial, tangential, and axial support of the rotor drive key assembly allows for the elimination of one or more bolts oriented radially along the wheel axis or perpendicular to the length of the rotor drive key from the assembly.

[0053] Compared to the substantially axially extending fasteners described herein, bolts oriented radially along the wheel axis or otherwise perpendicular to the rotor drive key may be more difficult to install; for example, special right-angle tools may be required. Furthermore, bolts oriented radially along the 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. Additionally, there may not be sufficient radial clearance in the wheel assembly for the use of nuts or other retaining mechanisms with bolts extending radially. Loosening of the bolts can result in the rotor drive key not being secured to the wheel, which can reduce the service life of the rotor drive key and / or the wheel, and interrupt the operation of the wheel's braking components, increase maintenance costs, and lead to premature replacement of the rotor drive key, etc.

[0054] Figure 1This is a perspective view illustrating 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, for example, 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 support 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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 1 As 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] A plurality of rotor drive keys 12 extending substantially in an axial direction allow 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.

[0059] 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, part 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 rotor drive key in the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 may correspond to a corresponding slot defined by the plurality of rotors of the braking assembly.

[0060] like Figure 1 As 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 detached from the well 20 and mechanically attached to it.

[0061] As discussed in further detail below, one or more of the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 are configured to be mechanically coupled to the wheel boss via an insert positioned between the rotor drive key and the wheel boss. The insert is configured to engage with the wheel boss such that the wheel boss restricts relative movement of the insert in the radial direction of the wheel 10 (e.g., from axis A toward the inner surface 14 and / or from the inner surface 14 toward axis A). The rotor drive key of the plurality of rotor drive keys 12 is configured to engage with the insert such that the insert, when engaged with the wheel boss, restricts relative movement of the rotor drive key 12 in the radial direction of the wheel 10. When the rotor drive key extends in the axial direction of the wheel 10, the rotor drive key may partially surround the insert to substantially restrict relative movement of the insert in the tangential direction of the wheel 10.

[0062] Figure 2This 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.

[0063] 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 extension 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 or mounted on a wheel and brake assembly 30. 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.

[0064] 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 type of vehicle.

[0065] 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 parts of the vehicle to connect wheels and brake assembly 30 to the vehicle.

[0066] During vehicle operation, braking may be required periodically, such as during the landing and taxiing of an aircraft. The wheel and brake assembly 30 is configured to provide braking functionality to the vehicle via the actuator assembly 40 and the 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.

[0067] The rotor brake disc 50 is slidably engaged (e.g., a sliding fit) with the rotor drive key 12 for co-rotation with the wellbore 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] Figure 3 An exemplary rotor drive key assembly 70 including an insert 74 and a rotor drive key 75 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, and 73, which are aligned with each other in a direction parallel to axis A. Wheel bosses 71-73 project from the inner surface 14 in the generally radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. Although Figure 3Three wheel bosses 71-73 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.

[0070] exist Figure 3 In the middle, line A1 is parallel to the axis of rotation A of wheel 10. 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 3 An exemplary perspective view of the wheel 10 and component 70. Figure 5 A perspective view of an exemplary insert 74 is shown. Figure 6 A perspective view of an exemplary rotor drive key 75 is shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 Including for reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The lines A1, R1, and T1 of the wheel 10 are provided; however, this orientation of the insert 74 and / or the rotor drive key 75 is not required. The insert 74 and / or the rotor drive key 75 may have any orientation relative to the wheel when not mounted on the wheel 10.

[0071] Although the configuration of the rotor drive key 75 and insert 74 may be discussed and shown primarily with respect to wheel boss 72 in some of the following discussions and figures, it should be understood that the rotor drive key 75 and insert 74 may have substantially similar relationships with any of the other wheel bosses of the wheel 10 (such as wheel boss 71, wheel boss 73 and / or other wheel bosses that may exist on the wheel 10).

[0072] Insert 74 is configured to mechanically connect wheel boss 72 and rotor drive key 75. As discussed in further detail below, insert 74 is configured to engage with wheel boss 72 such that the relative movement of insert 74 is restricted at least in the radial direction R1 of wheel 10, and in some examples, in the axial direction A1 of wheel 10. Rotor drive key 75 is configured to engage with insert 74 such that when insert 74 engages with wheel boss 72, the relative movement of rotor drive key 75 is restricted at least in the radial direction R1. Insert 74 can thus be used to mechanically connect wheel boss 72 and rotor drive key 75, thereby making rotor drive key 75 (relative to wheel boss 72) substantially stable in at least the radial direction R1 of wheel 10 during, for example, operation of wheel and brake assembly 30.

[0073] The insert 74 is configured to engage with the wheel boss 72, the engagement being configured such that the insert 74 resists movement relative to the wheel boss 72 in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. The insert 74 and the wheel boss 72 are configured such that when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and is subjected to force in a direction parallel to the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10, the wheel boss 72 exerts a reaction force on the insert 74 in the opposite direction. For example, when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and the insert 74 is in the direction r-( Figures 3 to 4 When the insert 74 is subjected to force, the wheel boss 72 applies a reaction force in the direction r+. When the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and is subjected to force in the direction r+, the wheel boss 72 applies a reaction force in the direction r-. During, for example, operation of the wheel and brake assembly 30, the reverse reaction force of the wheel boss 72 serves to limit the relative movement of the insert 74 in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10.

[0074] In some examples, the insert 74 is configured to pass through the wheel 10 in the tangential direction T1 (e.g., in the directions t- and / or t+). Figures 3 to 4 The insert 74 is translated above the wheel boss 72 to engage with the wheel boss 72. Configuring the insert 74 to establish an engaging connection with the wheel boss 72 by translating it above the wheel boss 72 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10 facilitates relatively easy assembly and disassembly of the assembly 70.

[0075] Figure 7A and Figure 7B An exemplary insert 74 is shown that mates with a section of the wheel boss 72. (See reference...) Figures 3 to 6 To provide lines A1, R1, and T1. For example... Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, in some examples, the insert 74 defines an insert recess 76 configured to receive a protrusion 82 (“protrusion 82”) defined by the wheel boss 72, for example, to engage the insert 74 with the wheel boss 72. The protrusion 82 may be defined by the outer contour of the wheel boss 72 (e.g., a contour defined in a plane including a vector parallel to the axial direction A1 and / or including a vector parallel to the radial direction R1). The insert 74 defines the insert recess 76 such that when the insert recess 76 receives the protrusion 82 and the insert 74 is subjected to force in a direction parallel to the radial direction R1, the wheel boss 72 exerts a counterforce on the insert 74 to limit the relative movement of the insert 74 in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. The insert recess 76 may be configured to receive the protrusion 82 when the insert 74 translates over the wheel boss 72 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10.

[0076] The wheel boss 72 can be configured to have an outwardly tapering portion defining the boss protrusion 82. This outward tapering portion can cause the width of the wheel boss 72, substantially parallel to the axial direction A1, to gradually increase as the wheel boss 72 extends radially away from the inner surface 14 of the wheel 10. For example, as... Figure 7B As shown, the wheel boss 72 defines a first width W1 and extends radially R1 away from the inner surface 14 of the wheel 10 to define a second width W2. The first width W1 and the second width W2 are measured along axis A1 from the axial boss side 79 to the axial boss side 81. The axial boss side 79 faces substantially the axial direction a-, while the axial boss side 81 faces substantially the opposite direction to the axial boss side 79 (e.g., the axial direction a+). The wheel boss 72 tapers in the radial direction r+ such that the second width W2 is greater than the first width W1. In some examples, the insert 74 may be configured to substantially conform to and / or complement the outwardly tapered portion of the wheel boss 72 when the insert 74 mates with the wheel boss 72.

[0077] When the insert 74 mates with the wheel boss 72, the insert recess 76 has an inner contour that is substantially conformal to and / or complementary to the outer contour of the boss protrusion 82. For example, the insert recess 76 may be configured such that the insert 74 can substantially form a dovetail shape with the boss protrusion 82, for example, such that the insert recess 76 substantially surfaces with the boss protrusion 82 at at least some portions of the boss protrusion 82. The inner contour may include straight segments, curved segments, and / or curved segments, and may be defined in a plane including a vector parallel to the axial direction A1 and / or including a vector parallel to the radial direction R1. In one example, the inner contour of the insert recess 76 conforms to and / or complements the outer contour of the wheel boss 72 such that: when the insert 74 mates with the wheel boss 72, the vector v1 perpendicular to and originating from a first portion of the inner contour ( Figure 7B ) and the vector v2 perpendicular to and originating from the second part of the inner contour ( Figure 7B The vector v1 intersects the outer contour of the boss protrusion 82, and the vector v1 has a component parallel to the radial direction R1 and opposite to the component of the vector v2 (e.g., v1 has a component in the direction r-, while v2 has a component in the direction r+). In some examples, the insert recess 76 may be defined by a concave surface configured to be complementary to the convex surface of the wheel boss 72.

[0078] The inner surface of the insert 74 defining the insert recess 76 may be configured to engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) the boss protrusion 82 when the insert recess 76 receives it. In some examples, the insert recess 76 is configured to provide an engineered fit with the boss protrusion 82, such as a sliding fit, a position fit, a transition fit, or an interference fit. In some examples, the insert 74 is configured to receive a retaining mechanism, such as a bolt or screw configured to extend through the insert 74 and into the wheel boss 72, when the insert recess 76 has received the boss protrusion 82, to facilitate further securing the insert 74 to the wheel boss 72. However, in other examples, no additional retaining mechanism is used to secure the insert 74 to the wheel boss 72.

[0079] In some examples, the insert 74 includes an elongated insert support 78 extending from the insert base 80 and defining an insert recess 76. The insert support 78 and the insert base 80 may meet at a common boundary (e.g., an inner corner) and define an angle θ1 between the insert support 78 and the insert base 80. Figure 7B Angle θ1 may lie in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction A1 and the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10, and may be less than 90 degrees. The boss protrusion 82 may extend outward from the body 83 (“boss body 83”) of the wheel boss 72 in a substantially axial direction A1 (e.g., in direction a-) of the wheel 10, and the insert recess 76 may be configured to extend inward in a substantially similar axial direction A1 (e.g., direction a-) of the wheel 10 to receive the boss protrusion 82. An elongated insert support 78 and an insert base 80 may define the insert recess 76 to limit relative movement of the insert 74 in at least the radial direction R1. Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B For example, when the insert 74 is subjected to a force in the direction r+, the insert bracket 78 and the insert base 80 can be configured such that the wheel boss 72 exerts a reaction force on at least the insert base 80 in the direction r-. When the insert 74 is subjected to a force in the direction r-, the insert bracket 78 and the insert base 80 can be configured such that the wheel boss 72 exerts a reaction force on at least the insert bracket 78 in the direction r+.

[0080] In some examples, the insert 74 includes a second insert support 84 extending from the insert base 80. The insert support 84 may define a second insert recess 86, wherein the insert recess 86 is configured to receive a second boss protrusion 88 of the wheel boss 72 on a side of the wheel boss 72 opposite to the boss protrusion 82. Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 7A , Figure 7BThe boss protrusion 88 may extend outward from the boss body 83 in a substantially axial direction A1 (e.g., in direction a+) opposite to the direction of the boss protrusion 82, and may be configured relative to the wheel boss 72 in a manner similar to the configuration of the boss protrusion 82. In some examples, the outward taper of the wheel boss 72 may define the boss protrusions 82, 88. The insert bracket 84 and the insert base 80 are configured such that when the insert recess 86 receives the boss protrusion 88 and the insert 74 is subjected to force in a direction parallel to the radial direction R1, the wheel boss 72 exerts a reaction force on the insert 74 in the opposite direction. The insert bracket 84 and the insert recess 86 may be configured relative to the boss protrusion 88 and the insert base 80 in a manner similar to the configuration of the insert bracket 78 and the insert recess 76 relative to the boss protrusion 82 and the insert base 80.

[0081] The engagement of the insert 74 with the wheel boss 72 can also be used to limit the insert 74 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., directions a+ and / or a-). Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B The relative motion on the wheel boss 72. The insert 74 can be configured such that when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and is subjected to a force in a direction parallel to the axial direction A1, the wheel boss 72 exerts a reaction force on the insert 74 in the opposite direction. For example, when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and is subjected to a force in the direction a+ ( Figures 3 to 4 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B When the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and is subjected to force in the direction a-, the wheel boss 72 can apply a reaction force in the direction a+ (e.g., on the insert bracket 78). When the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the reverse reaction force of the wheel boss 72 on the insert 74 is used to limit the relative movement of the insert 74 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10.

[0082] In examples where the insert 74 includes supports 78, 84, the insert 74 may be configured such that when the insert 74 mates with the wheel boss 72 (e.g., when the insert recesses 76, 86 receive the corresponding boss protrusions 82, 88), the insert supports 78 and 84 substantially support the wheel boss 72. For example, the insert support 78 may be adjacent to a first side of the wheel boss 72, and the insert support 84 may be adjacent to a second side of the wheel boss 72 opposite to the first side. In some examples, the insert supports 78 and 84 may be attached to and separated from the insert base 80, wherein the insert base 80 defines displacement between the insert supports 78 and 84 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. For example, the insert supports 78, 84 and the insert base 80 have an integral construction (e.g., formed from a single continuous piece of material). In other examples, insert brackets 78, 84 may be physically separable from insert base 80 and may be attached to insert base 80 to form insert 74.

[0083] In some examples, insert bracket 78 and insert bracket 84 may be configured to define profiles with reflective symmetry (within manufacturing tolerances) relative to a line intersecting insert base 80 (e.g., a line substantially perpendicular to insert base 80). In other examples, insert bracket 78 and insert bracket 84 define asymmetrical profiles relative to a line intersecting insert base 80.

[0084] like Figure 3 As shown, in some examples, component 70 may include one or more additional inserts that mate with the wheel boss, such as insert 77 that mates with wheel boss 73. Figure 3 , Figure 4 Insert 77 can be configured relative to wheel boss 73 and rotor drive key 75 in the same manner as insert 74 relative to wheel boss 72 and rotor drive key 75. Rotor drive key 75 can mate with insert 77 in the same manner as described for insert 74. However, in other examples, assembly 70 may have only one insert 74 that mechanically connects rotor drive key 75 and wheel boss 72.

[0085] As described above, the insert 74 may engage with the wheel boss 72 such that the wheel boss 72 restricts the relative movement of the insert 74 in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. The insert 74 may also engage with the wheel boss 72 such that the wheel boss 72 restricts the relative movement of the insert 74 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. In some examples, the insert 74 is configured to engage with the wheel boss 72 when the insert 74 translates above the wheel boss 72 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10.

[0086] The rotor drive key 75 is configured to engage with the insert 74 ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 The rotor drive key 75 is mechanically connected to the wheel boss 72. The rotor drive key 75 is configured such that, when the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74 and the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the insert 74 restricts relative movement of the rotor drive key 75 in at least the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. The insert 74 is configured to remain between the rotor drive key 75 and the wheel boss 72 when the insert 74 mechanically connects the rotor drive key 75 and the wheel boss 72. As used herein, in some cases, "mechanically connected" may mean that, when the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74 and the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the insert 74 restricts the rotor drive key 75 in at least the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in directions r- and / or r+). Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 8A , Figure 8B The relative movement of the rotor drive key 75 and the wheel boss 72. For example, when the insert 74 mechanically connects the rotor drive key 75 and the wheel boss 72, the rotor drive key 75 is in at least the radial direction R1 (e.g., direction r+ and / or r-) of the wheel 10. Figure 3 , Figure 4 When the wheel 10 is subjected to force, the insert 74 is used to transfer at least some of the force on the rotor drive key 75 to the wheel boss 72. Similarly, when the insert 74 experiences a reaction force from the wheel boss 72 in at least the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10, the insert 74 can be used to transfer at least some of the reaction force to the rotor drive key 75.

[0087] The rotor drive key includes a first end 90 (“key first end 90”) and a second end 92 (“key second end 92”). When the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74 and the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, a force in the direction parallel to the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10 causes the insert 74 to exert a reaction force on the rotor drive key 75 in the opposite direction. For example, when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and the rotor drive key 75 in the direction r-( Figures 3 to 4 When the rotor drive key 75 is subjected to force in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10, the insert 74 applies a reaction force in the direction r+. When the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and the rotor drive key 75 is subjected to force in the direction r+, the insert 74 applies a reaction force in the direction r-. The reverse reaction force of the insert 74 is used to limit the relative movement of the rotor drive key 75 in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. In the example, the rotor drive key 75 is configured such that when the rotor drive key is subjected to force in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in the direction a+ ( Figures 3 to 4When the rotor drive key is translated above the insert 74 and the wheel boss 72, it engages with the insert 74. Constructing the rotor drive key to engage with the insert 74 by translating it above the insert 74 in the axial direction A1 facilitates relatively easy assembly and disassembly of the assembly 70.

[0088] Figure 8A and Figure 8B A cross-section of an exemplary rotor drive key 75 that mates with an exemplary insert 74 is shown. (Refer to...) Figures 3 to 7B To provide lines A1, R1, and T1. For clarity, a portion of the rotor drive key 75 is shown in cross-section.

[0089] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the rotor drive key 75 may define a key recess 94, which is configured to receive a protrusion 96 (“insertion protrusion 96”) of the insert 74. The insertion protrusion 96 may be located away from the body 97 (“insertion body 97”) of the insert 74 in the tangential direction T1 (e.g., direction t-). Figure 5 , Figure 8A , Figure 8B The insert body 97 may be part of the insert base 80 or some other component of the insert 74. The insert protrusion 96 may be defined by the outer contour of the insert 74 (e.g., a contour defined in a plane including a vector parallel to the axial direction A1 and / or including a vector parallel to the radial direction R1). The rotor drive key 75 defines a key recess 94 such that: when the key recess 94 receives the insert protrusion 96 and the rotor drive key 75 is subjected to force in a direction parallel to the radial direction R1, the key recess 94 serves to transmit at least some portion of the force to the insert 74. When the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the insert 74 applies a reverse reaction force to the rotor drive key 75, thereby limiting the relative movement of the rotor drive key 75 in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. The key recess 94 may be configured to receive the insert protrusion 96 when the rotor drive key 75 translates over the insert 74 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. For example, the key recess 94 may be configured to receive the insertion protrusion 96 when the key recess 94 is aligned with the insertion protrusion 96 at the first end 90 of the key and the rotor drives the key 75 to translate over the insertion 74 in the direction a-.

[0090] When the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74, the key recess 94 may define an inner profile that is substantially conformable to and / or complementary to the protruding outer profile of the insert protrusion 96. The key recess 94 may be substantially dovetail-shaped with the insert protrusion 96, such that the key recess 94 substantially mates with the insert protrusion 96 above at least some portions of the insert protrusion 96. The inner profile of the recess may include straight segments, curved segments, and / or curved segments, and may be defined in a plane including a vector parallel to the tangential direction T1 and / or including a vector parallel to the radial direction R1. In one example, the inner profile of the recess is conformable to and / or complementary to the protruding outer profile of the insert 74, such that: when the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74, the vector v3 ( ) perpendicular to and originating from a first portion of the inner profile of the recess Figure 8A ) and the vector v4 ( perpendicular to and originating from the second part of the concave inner contour) Figure 8A The key recess 94 intersects the outer contour of the protrusion of the insert 74, and vector v3 has a component parallel to the radial direction R1 and opposite to the component of vector v4 (e.g., v3 has a component in the direction r+, while v4 has a component in the direction r-). In some examples, the key recess 94 may be defined by a concave surface configured to be complementary to the convex surface of the insert 74 (e.g., the convex surface of the insert protrusion 96). In one example, the key recess 94 extends inward in the tangential direction T1 (e.g., inward in the direction t-) to establish a mating connection with the insert protrusion 96.

[0091] The inner surface of the key recess 94 may be configured to engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) the insert protrusion 96 when the key recess 94 receives the insert protrusion 96. In some examples, the key recess 94 is configured to provide an engineered fit with the insert protrusion 96, such as a sliding fit, a position fit, a transition fit, or an interference fit.

[0092] As discussed in further detail below, in some examples, the rotor drive key 75 may be configured to receive a retaining mechanism, such as a bolt or screw, which is configured to extend through the rotor drive key 75 and into the insert 74 and / or wheel boss 72 to further secure the insert 74 and rotor drive key 75 once the key recess 94 has received the insert protrusion 96. However, in other examples, no additional retaining mechanism is used to secure the rotor drive key 75 to the insert 74.

[0093] In the example, the rotor-driven key includes a key first side 98 that defines a key recess 94. Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8A and Figure 8BThe rotor drive key 75 may be configured such that when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72 and the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74, the first side 98 of the key substantially faces the insert 74 and the wheel boss 72. The key recess 94 may extend over the length of the first side 98 between the first end 90 and the second end 92 of the key, and may substantially originate at the first end 90 before extending toward the second end 92. The inner contour of the key recess 94 may be substantially uniform over its extension along the first side 98 of the key, to allow the rotor drive key 75 to receive the insert protrusion 96 in the key recess 94 when the rotor drive key 75 translates over the insert 74 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in direction a-). The first side 98 of the key may define the key recess 94 such that: when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the rotor drive key 75 can be positioned on the wheel 10 (e.g., installed or removed) by aligning the key recess 94 and the insert protrusion 96, and then in the axial direction A1 (e.g., direction a- ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 8A , Figure 8B The rotor drive key 75 is translated above the insert 74.

[0094] In the example, a first key side 98 extends from the key base section 102 of the rotor-driven key 75. The rotor-driven key 75 may include a second key side 104 extending from the key base section 102 and defining a keyway 106 configured to receive the insert 74 when the rotor-driven key 75 mates with the insert 74. The first key side 98, the key base section 102, and the second key side 104 may be configured to form a generally U-shaped cross-section 108 defining the keyway 106. Figure 8A (shown as crosshairs). The keyway 106 extends over a certain length between the first end 90 and the second end 92 of the key, and may substantially begin at the first end 90 of the key, such that when the rotor drives the key 75 in the axial direction of the wheel 10 (e.g., in direction a-), Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 8A , Figure 8B When the drive keyway 106 is moved above the insert 74, it can receive the insert 74.

[0095] In some examples, the second side 104 of the key may include a second key recess 110. Figure 6 , Figure 8A The second key recess extends over a certain length of the second side 104 of the key between the first end 90 and the second end 92 of the key. The key recess 110 can be configured to receive the second insert protrusion 112 of the insert 74. Figure 5 , Figure 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 8A and Figure 8B The insert protrusion 112 may extend outward from the insert 74 in a substantially tangential direction T1 (e.g., in direction t+) opposite to the direction of the insert protrusion 96, and may be configured relative to the insert 74 in a manner similar to that of the insert protrusion 96. The second side of the key is configured such that when the key recess 110 receives the insert protrusion 112 and the rotor drive key 75 is subjected to force in a direction parallel to the radial direction R1, the rotor drive key 75 transmits at least some portion of the force to the insert 74. When the key recess 110 receives the insert protrusion 112, the rotor drive key 75 is subjected to force in a direction parallel to the radial direction R1, and the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the insert 74 exerts a reaction force on the rotor drive key 75 in the opposite direction. The second side of the key 104 and the key recess 110 may be configured relative to the insert protrusion 112 in a manner similar to that of the first side of the key 98 and the key recess 94 relative to the insert protrusion 96.

[0096] In some examples, such as Figures 8A to 8B As shown, the insert 74 defines a substantially T-shaped cross-section in a plane parallel to the radial direction R1 and / or tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10. Figure 8A A portion of insert 74 (e.g., one or both of insert supports 78, 84) may define a rod with a T-shaped cross-section, while insert protrusions 96 and 112 define a crossbar with a T-shaped cross-section. In the example, a portion of insert 74 including insert protrusions 96, 112 (e.g., insert base 80) defines a width W3. Figure 7A The width W3 is greater than the width W4 defined by the wheel boss 72, wherein the widths W3 and W4 are measured in a direction substantially parallel to the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10.

[0097] The rotor drive key 75 and the wheel boss 72 can be configured such that when the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74 and the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, some portions of the wheel boss 72 resist movement of the rotor drive key 75 in the tangential direction T1 (e.g., in directions t- and / or t+). For example, the rotor drive key 75 may at least partially surround some portions of the wheel boss 72 (e.g., with the keyway 106 ( Figure 6 This ensures that a portion of the rotor drive key 75 is substantially facing the wheel boss 72 in the tangential direction T1. For example, as... Figure 6 , Figure 8A and Figure 8BAs shown, the rotor drive key 75 may include a support surface 114 (e.g., on the first side 98 of the key) which is configured to face a portion of the wheel boss 72 when the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74 and the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72.

[0098] The support surface 114 of the rotor drive key 75 is configured to engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) the wheel boss 72 to substantially limit the rotor drive key 75 in the tangential direction T1 (e.g., direction t+). Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 8A The relative movement on the wheel boss 72. The support surface 114 is configured such that when the support surface 114 engages the wheel boss 72 (e.g., engaging the boss side 115), the wheel boss 72 engages the wheel boss 72. Figure 8A When the force applied to the rotor drive key 75 in the tangential direction t+ causes the wheel boss 72 to exert a reaction force on the bearing surface 114 in the tangential direction t, so as to hold the rotor drive key 75 in a tangential position that is substantially stationary relative to the wheel boss 72. The support surface 114 may extend over any suitable length of the rotor drive key 75 between the first end 90 and the second end 92 of the key. For example, the support surface 114 may substantially begin at the first end 90 and terminate at the second end 92 of the key. In other examples, the support surface 114 extends only along a portion of the length of the rotor drive key 75 between the first end 90 and the second end 92 of the key. In some examples, the support surface 114 includes a substantially flat surface (e.g., substantially parallel to the direction R1 and / or direction A1 of the wheel 10). In addition or alternatively, in other examples, the support surface 114 includes a surface that defines a curvature. Additionally, in some examples, the support surface 114 defines a surface that is configured to substantially conform to a portion of the wheel boss 72.

[0099] The rotor drive key 75 (e.g., drive keyway 106) can be configured to surround the wheel boss 72, such that the support surface 116 defined by the second side 104 of the key ( Figure 6 , Figure 8A The side 117 (“boss side 117”) of the wheel boss 72, which is substantially opposite to the boss side 115, is positioned to resist relative movement of the rotor drive key 75 in the second tangential direction T1 (e.g., direction t+) of the wheel 10. For example, the support surface 116 may be configured to engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) the boss side 117. Figure 8A , Figure 8B ), to essentially limit the rotor drive key 75 in the tangential direction t- ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 8A , Figure 8BThe relative motion on the wheel boss 72 and insert 74. The boss side 117 can be configured relative to the wheel boss 72 and insert 74 in a similar manner to the configuration of the boss side 115 relative to the wheel boss 72 and insert 74.

[0100] When the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74 and the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the rotor drive key 75 can be used to substantially restrict the relative movement of the insert 74 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10. The rotor drive key 75 can be configured such that, for example, the support surface 114 and the key recess 110 are substantially rigid bodies, and the force T1 applied to the key recess 110, at least in the tangential direction, is transmitted to the support surface 114 through the rotor drive key 75. For example, the rotor drive key 75 can be configured such that the force F1 ( ) applied by the insert protrusion 112 to the key recess 110 in the direction t+ Figure 8A The force F1 is at least partially transmitted to the support surface 114, thereby causing the support surface 114 to apply a force F2 on the boss side 115. When the support surface 114 engages the boss side 115, the boss side 115 applies a reverse reaction force F3 on the support surface 114. The reverse reaction force F3 tends to limit the relative movement of the rotor drive key 75 in response to the force F1, thereby allowing the recess 110 to resist the relative movement of the insert 74 in the direction t+.

[0101] The support surface 116 and the key recess 94 can be configured such that the force relative to F1 applied to the key recess 94 by the insert protrusion 96 is at least partially transmitted to the support surface 116, and the boss side 117 applies a counterforce to allow the recess 94 to resist relative movement of the insert 74 in the direction t-. Similarly, the surfaces of the insert support 78, the insert base 80, and / or the insert support 84 can engage the support surface 116 in response to a force such as F1, resulting in the boss side 115 applying a counterforce on the support surface 114 and resisting relative movement of the insert 74 in the direction t+. The surfaces of the insert support 78, the insert base 80, and / or the insert support 84 can engage the support surface 116 in response to a force opposite to F1, resulting in the boss side 117 applying a counterforce on the support surface 116 to resist relative movement of the insert 74 in the direction t-. Accordingly, the rotor drive key 75 can be configured such that when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, it essentially captures the insert 74 to resist relative movement in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10.

[0102] Therefore, in general, in some examples, the rotor drive key assembly 70 may be configured to engage and / or engage with the wheel boss 72 in a manner that substantially restricts the movement of the insert 74 and the rotor drive key 75 relative to the wheel 10 when the rotor drive key assembly 70 is positioned on the wheel 10. The insert 74 may be configured to engage with the wheel boss 72 in a manner that restricts the relative movement of the insert 74 in the radial direction R1 and the axial direction A1. The insert 74 may be configured to engage with the wheel boss 72 when the insert 74 translates above the wheel boss 72 in the tangential direction of the wheel 10. The rotor drive key 75 may be configured to engage with the insert 74 to substantially capture the insert 74 against relative movement in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10, such that the insert 74 is substantially fixed against relative movement in the radial direction R1, the axial direction A1, and the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10.

[0103] When the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74 in a manner that restricts relative movement of the rotor drive key 75 in the radial direction R1, and can be configured to at least partially surround and engage the wheel boss 72 in a manner that restricts relative movement of the rotor drive key 75 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10. Therefore, when the insert 74 engages with the wheel boss 72, the engagement of the rotor drive key 75 with the insert 74 serves to substantially fix the rotor drive key 75 against relative movement in at least the radial direction R1 and the tangential direction T1.

[0104] In some examples, an additional attachment mechanism may be used to limit the movement of the rotor drive key 75 relative to the wheel 10 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. For example, the rotor drive key 75 may include a tab 118 ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 The tab is configured to engage directly or indirectly with the wheel boss of the wheel 10. The tab 118 extends from portions of the rotor drive key 75 (e.g., key base section 102, key first side 98, and / or key second side 104) and is configured to support the rotor drive key 75 against substantially relative movement in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 when the rotor drive key 75 engages with the insert 74. The tab 118 includes a tab support surface 120 configured to substantially face a portion of the wheel boss 71 and resist rotor drive key 75 in the axial direction A1 (e.g., direction a+( Figure 3 , Figure 4The tab 118 can be located at any point between the first end 90 and the second end 92 of the key, or at any point including both the first end 90 and the second end 92. In the example, the tab 118 is located at or near the second end 92 of the key, and the rotor drive key 75 is configured to be positioned (e.g., mounted) above the wheel boss 72, with the first end 90 of the key as the leading edge, unaffected by the tab 118. Fastener 122 ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 An insert can be inserted through both the tab 118 and the wheel boss (e.g., wheel boss 71) to restrict the movement of the tab 118 relative to the wheel 10, for example, to fix the tab 118 in a position that is substantially stationary relative to the wheel 10.

[0105] Although the configuration of tab 118 is discussed and shown primarily with respect to wheel boss 71 in some of the following discussions and figures, it should be understood that tab 118 may have a substantially similar relationship with any of the other wheel bosses of wheel 10 (such as wheel boss 72, wheel boss 73 and / or other wheel bosses that may be present on wheel 10).

[0106] The tab support surface 120 is configured to substantially face a portion of the wheel boss 71 and resist the rotor drive key 75 relative to the wheel boss 71 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 rotor drive key 75 causes the wheel boss 71 to exert a reaction force on the lapel support surface 120 in the axial direction a+, so as to hold the rotor drive key 75 in an axial position that is substantially stationary relative to the wheel boss 71. In some examples, the lapel support surface 120 is a substantially flat surface (e.g., substantially parallel to the radial direction R1 and / or the tangential direction T1). In addition or alternatively, in other examples, the lapel support surface 120 includes a surface that defines a curvature. Additionally, in some examples, the lapel support surface 120 defines a surface that is configured to substantially conform to a portion of the wheel boss 71.

[0107] As discussed, tab 118 can be secured in a substantially stationary position relative to wheel boss 71 by fastener 122 (e.g., functionally stationary, but with minor relative movement). Tab 118 defines tab hole 124 ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6The tab hole 124 is configured to receive a fastener 122 extending in a substantially axial direction A1 of the wheel 10. The tab hole 124 extends through the tab 118 and includes an opening defined by the tab support surface 120. The tab hole 124 is configured to engage the tab 118 with the fastener 122 when the fastener 122 extends through the tab hole 124 and enters the wheel boss 71. For example, the tab hole 124 may be configured such that when the shank of the fastener 122 extends through the tab hole 124 and engages with the wheel boss 71 (e.g., threaded engagement), the fastener head 126 of the fastener 122 (… Figure 3 , Figure 4 The fastener 122 is used to compress a portion of the tab 118 (e.g., the periphery of the tab hole 124). When the fastener 122 engages the wheel boss 71, the tab hole 124 substantially holds a portion of the tab 118 (e.g., the portion of the tab 118 surrounding the tab hole 124) between the fastener head 126 and the wheel boss 71, so as to keep the tab 118 and the rotor drive key 75 substantially stationary relative to the wheel boss 71.

[0108] Fastener 122 can engage wheel boss 71 in a manner that substantially secures fastener 122 against relative movement in at least the axial direction A1 of wheel 10. Fastener 122 can be engaged via, for example, wheel boss 71 ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 The boss hole 128, defined by the wheel boss 71, extends into the wheel boss 71. In some examples, the fastener 122 includes a bolt thread 130 configured to thread-engage with a boss thread 132 defined by the wheel boss 71 within the boss hole 128 to hold the fastener 122 in a substantially stationary position relative to the wheel boss 71. The bolt thread 130 may be an external thread, and the boss thread 132 may be an internal thread. In some examples, the fastener 122 may extend through the boss hole 128 and thread-engage with a nut or other fastening device configured to hold the fastener 122 substantially stationary relative to the wheel boss 71.

[0109] In some examples, fastener 122 is configured to substantially retain tab support surface 120 in contact with wheel boss 71, and / or retain tab support surface 120 in contact with one or more materials (e.g., compression washers) between tab support surface 120 and wheel boss 71. Fastener 122 may be configured such that when fastener 122 (e.g., by threading onto wheel boss 71, or extending through boss hole 128 and engaging a nut) is fastened to wheel boss 71, a portion of tab 118 (e.g., the portion of tab 118 surrounding tab hole 124) is substantially retained between fastener head 126 and wheel boss 71. For example, fastener 122 may be having a flange 134 ( Figure 3 , Figure 4 The flange bolt is configured such that when the fastener 122 is fastened to the wheel boss 71, the tab 118 is substantially captured between the head of the fastener 122 and the wheel boss 71.

[0110] In some examples, the rotor drive key assembly 70 may include a locking mechanism (not shown) configured to rotatably lock the fastener 122 in place. In these examples, the fastener 122 may not be threaded. The locking mechanism may include any suitable construction, such as, but not limited to, one or more of the following: a locking plate, a retainer clamp, a locking washer, a Nord locking washer, a nylon insert, a retainer pin, a castle locking device, an adhesive, a safety wire, a safety cable, a retainer clamp, etc. Figure 4 A heat shield 136 that can be deployed on the inner surface 14 of the wheel 10 is also depicted.

[0111] In some examples, the key base section and the tabs of the rotor-driven key have an integral (or monolithic) construction and cannot be separated from each other without adversely affecting the structural integrity of the key base section and / or the tabs. In other examples, the key base section and the tabs are separable components of the rotor-driven key. For example, Figure 9 An example including a portion of a rotor-driven key 168 is shown, which includes a key base section 170, a first key side 172, a second key side 174, a second key end 176, and a removable tab 178. The removable tab 178 is physically separate from the key base section 170 and configured to be mechanically connected to the key base section 170. The removable tab 178 defines a tab support surface 180 and a tab hole 182. The rotor-driven key 168, key base section 170, first key side 172, second key side 174, second key end 176, removable tab 178, tab support surface 180, and tab hole 182 can be constructed individually and in relation to the other components of the rotor-driven key 168 in the same manner as discussed for the key base section 102, first key side 98, second key side 104, and second key end 92 relative to the other components of the rotor-driven key 75.

[0112] A removable tab 178 is configured to insert into a support recess 184 defined by a key base section 170. The support recess 184 may be located within the key base section 170 at any point between the second body end 176 and the first body end (not shown) of the rotor drive key 168, or at any point including both the second body end 176 and the first body end of the rotor drive key 168. In one example, the support recess 184 is substantially located at the second body end 176. The tab 178 may include a tab protrusion 186 configured to insert into the support recess 184. The tab protrusion 186 may be configured to provide an engineered fit within the support recess 184, such as a sliding fit, position fit, transition fit, or interference fit. When the tab protrusion 186 is inserted into the support recess 184, the removable tab 178, tab support surface 180, and tab hole 182 can be constructed individually and in relation to the other components of the rotor drive key 168 in the same manner as discussed for the tab 118, tab support surface 120, and tab hole 124 relative to the other components of the rotor drive key 75.

[0113] The use of the removable tab 178 allows the removable tab 178 and the key base section 170, the first key side 172, and / or the second key side 174 to be constructed from different materials, and enhances manufacturability. For example, the key base section 170, the first key side 172, and / or the second key side 174 may define substantially similar cross-sections (e.g., perpendicular to the axial direction A1) between the second body end 176 and the first body end of the rotor-driven key 168, allowing the key base section 170, the first key side 172, and / or the second key side 174 to be formed at least partially by extrusion or drawing (e.g., by 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.

[0114] The insert configured to connect the rotor drive key to the wheel boss can have any suitable construction that allows the insert to mate with the wheel boss. For example, such as Figure 10A and Figure 10BAs shown, in addition to or besides the insert recess 76, the insert 138 may also include an insert lateral protrusion 140. In some examples, the insert lateral protrusion 140 may extend from the insert support 142, which may extend from the insert base 143. The insert lateral protrusion 140 may be configured to insert into the boss lateral recess 144 to engage the insert 138 with the wheel boss 145 and restrict relative movement of the insert 138 in at least the radial direction R1. The outer surface of the insert 138 defining the insert lateral protrusion 140 may be configured to engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) the inner surface of the boss lateral recess 144 when the insert lateral protrusion 140 is inserted into the boss lateral recess 144. In some examples, the insert lateral protrusion 140 is configured to provide an engineered fit with the boss lateral recess 144, such as a sliding fit, a position fit, a transition fit, or an interference fit. The insert 138 defines the insert lateral protrusion 140 such that: when the insert lateral protrusion 140 is inserted into the boss lateral recess 144 and the insert 138 is subjected to force in a direction parallel to the radial direction R1, the wheel boss 145 applies a reverse reaction force to the insert 138 to limit the relative movement of the insert 138 in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. The insert lateral protrusion 140 may be configured to insert into the boss lateral recess 144 when the insert 138 translates above the wheel boss 72 in the tangential direction T1 of the wheel 10.

[0115] When the insert 138 mates with the vehicle boss 145, the lateral protrusion 140 of the insert may have an outer contour that is substantially conformal to and / or complementary to the inner contour of the lateral recess 144 of the boss. The outer contour of the lateral protrusion 140 of the insert may include straight segments, curved segments, and / or curved segments, and may be defined in a plane parallel to the axial direction A1 and / or parallel to the radial direction R1. The lateral protrusion 140 of the insert may be defined by a convex surface configured to complement the concave surface of the wheel boss 145. In one example, the outer contour of the insert lateral protrusion 140 is conformable to and / or complementary to the inner contour of the boss lateral recess 144, such that when the insert 138 engages with the wheel boss 145, a vector v5 perpendicular to and originating from a first portion of the outer contour and a vector v6 perpendicular to and originating from a second portion of the outer contour intersect the inner contour of the boss lateral recess 144, and vector v5 has a component parallel to the radial direction R1 that is opposite to the component of vector v6 (e.g., v5 has a component in the direction r-, while v6 has a component in the direction r+).

[0116] The rotor drive key described herein can have any suitable construction that allows the rotor drive key to mate with the insert. In some examples, such as Figure 10A and Figure 10BAs shown, instead of or in addition to the key recess 94, the rotor drive key 146 may include a key protrusion 148. In some examples, the key protrusion 148 may extend from a first key side 150, which may extend from a key base segment 151. The key protrusion 148 may be configured to insert into an insert-side recess 152 defined by the insert 138 when the rotor drive key 146 engages with the insert 138 and the insert 138 engages with the wheel boss 145, thereby limiting relative movement of the rotor drive key 146 in at least the radial direction R1. The outer surface of the rotor drive key 146 defining the key protrusion 148 may be configured to engage (e.g., contact and / or friction engagement) the inner surface of the insert-side recess 152 when the key protrusion 148 is inserted into the insert-side recess 152. In some examples, the key protrusion 148 is configured to provide an engineered fit with the insert lateral recess 152, such as a sliding fit, position fit, transition fit, or interference fit. The rotor drive key 146 defines the key protrusion 148 such that, when the key protrusion 148 is inserted into the insert lateral recess 152 and the insert 138 engages with the wheel boss 145, when the rotor drive key 146 is subjected to force in a direction parallel to the radial direction R1, the insert 138 applies a reverse reaction force to the rotor drive key 146 to limit relative movement of the rotor drive key 146 in the radial direction R1 of the wheel 10. The key protrusion 148 may be configured to insert into the insert lateral recess 152 when the rotor drive key 146 translates above the insert 138 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10.

[0117] The key protrusion 148 may have an outer contour that is substantially conformal to and / or complementary to the inner contour of the lateral recess 152 of the insert. The outer contour of the key protrusion 148 may include straight segments, curved segments, and / or curved segments, and may be defined in a plane parallel to the radial direction R1 and / or parallel to the tangential direction T1. For example, the key protrusion 148 may be defined by a convex surface configured to complement the concave surface of the insert 138. In one example, the outer contour of the key protrusion 148 is conformable to and / or complementary to the inner contour of the insert lateral recess 152, such that when the rotor drives the key 146 to engage with the insert 138, a vector v7 perpendicular to and originating from a first portion of the outer contour of the key protrusion 148 and a vector v8 perpendicular to and originating from a second portion of the outer contour of the key protrusion 148 intersect the inner contour of the insert lateral recess 152, and the vector v7 has a component parallel to the radial direction R1 that is opposite to the component of the vector v8 (e.g., v7 has a component in the direction r-, while v8 has a component in the direction r+).

[0118] The insert 138 may include a second insert-side protrusion 154 that extends from, for example, the insert bracket 156 in a direction opposite to that of the insert-side protrusion 140. The insert-side protrusion 154 may be configured to insert into a second boss-side recess 158. The rotor drive key 146 may include a second key protrusion 160 that extends from, for example, a second key side 162 in a direction opposite to that of the key protrusion 148. The key protrusion 160 may be configured to insert into a second insert-side recess 164. The insert-side recess 164 may be configured with respect to the insert 138, insert bracket 156, wheel boss 145, and boss-side recess 158 in the same manner as the insert-side protrusion 140 with respect to the insert 138, insert bracket 156, wheel boss 145, and boss-side recess 158. The key protrusion 160 can be configured in the same manner as the key protrusion 148 relative to the rotor drive key 146, the key first side 150, the wheel boss 145, and the insert side recess 152, relative to the rotor drive key 146, the key second side 162, the wheel boss 145, and the insert side recess 164. The insert 138 can be an example of the insert 74. The insert support 142, the insert base 143, and the insert support 146 can be examples of the insert support 78, the insert base 80, and the insert support 84, respectively. The rotor drive key 145 can be an example of the rotor drive key 75. The key first side 150, the key base segment 151, and the key second side 162 can be examples of the key first side 98, the key base segment 102, and the key second side 104, respectively. The wheel boss 145 can be any example of wheel bosses 71-74.

[0119] The rotor drive keys 75, 146 and / or inserts 74, 138, as well as other components described herein, may be made of any suitable material. For example, the material may be any material that has adequate strength for the intended use of the rotor drive keys 75, 146 and / or inserts 74, 138. In some examples, the material includes metals or metal alloys. For example, the material may include nickel alloys or steel alloys. As an example, the material may include stainless steel.

[0120] Inserts 74, 138, rotor drive keys 75, 146, fasteners 122, and other structures described herein can be formed using any suitable technique. In some examples, inserts 74, 138, rotor drive keys 75, 146, and / or fasteners 122 can be forged, cast, manufactured, produced by additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing), extrusion, stretching, or other suitable methods. In some examples, inserts 74, 138, rotor drive keys 75, 146, and / or fasteners 122 can be machined to define the configuration described herein. In other examples, inserts 74, 138, rotor drive keys 75, 146, and / or fasteners 122 can be formed without basic machining.

[0121] In some examples, wheel 10 may be precision machined from a near-net-shape aluminum forging and includes wheel bosses to assemble rotor drive key assembly 70 onto wheel 10 using fasteners 122 extending through, for example, wheel boss 71 and tab 118. 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.

[0122] Wheel 10 may include any number of wheel bosses and any number of rotor drive keys 75, 146 and inserts 74, 138. Wheel bosses (including wheel bosses 71-74, 145) projecting from the inner surface 14 may extend from adjacent portions of the inner surface 14 in a substantially radial direction. A wheel boss may extend radially inward than a corresponding portion of the inner surface 14 adjacent to it. 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.

[0123] Figure 11This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary technique 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. The technique includes engaging inserts 74, 138 with wheel bosses 72, 145 on the inner surface 14 of the wheel 10 (1102). In some examples, an operator may engage inserts 74, 138 with wheel bosses 72, 145 by translating inserts 74, 138 over the wheel bosses 72, 145 in the tangential direction of the wheel 10. Inserts 74, 138 may define insert recesses 76, 86 and / or insert lateral protrusions 140, 154, and wheel bosses 72, 145 may include boss protrusions 82, 88 and / or boss lateral recesses 144, 158. In these examples, the operator can engage the inserts 74, 138 with the wheel bosses 72, 145 by inserting the boss protrusions 82, 88 into the insert recesses 76, 86 and / or by inserting the insert lateral protrusions 140, 154 into the boss lateral recesses 144, 158.

[0124] After the inserts 74, 138 engage with the wheel bosses 72, 145, the technique includes engaging the rotor drive keys 75, 146 with the inserts 74, 138 (1104). For example, an operator can engage the rotor drive keys 75, 146 with the inserts 74, 138 by translating the rotor drive keys 75, 146 above the inserts 74, 138 in the axial direction of the wheel 10. The rotor drive keys 75, 146 may define key recesses 94, 110 and / or key protrusions 148, 160, and the inserts 74, 138 may define insert protrusions 96, 112 and / or insert lateral recesses 152, 164. In these examples, the operator can engage the rotor drive keys 75, 146 with the inserts 74, 138 by introducing the insert protrusions 96, 112 into the key recesses 94, 110 and / or by introducing the key protrusions 148, 160 into the insert lateral recesses 152, 164.

[0125] In some examples, the operator may slide the rotor drive keys 75, 146 over the inserts 74, 138 until the tab 118 (e.g., tab support surface 120) engages the support surface of the wheel boss 71, 145, or one or more materials between the tab 118 and the wheel boss 71, 145, such that the tab 118 acts as a stop. After the rotor drive keys 75, 146 are positioned over the inserts 74, 138 such that the corresponding tab 118 engages the support surface of the wheel boss 71, 145 or otherwise approaches the support surface of the wheel boss 71, 145, the operator may position the fastener 122 through the rotor drive keys 75, 146. For example, the operator may position the fastener 122 in the axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 through the tab hole 124 of the tab 118 and into the boss hole 128. In some examples, the operator may place a washer and / or shim between the fastener head 126 and the tab 118. The operator can engage the locking mechanism with the fastener 122 (e.g., insert a retainer through the fastener head 126, place a locking plate between the fastener head 126 and the tab 118, etc.) to secure the position of the fastener 122 relative to the rotor drive key 75.

[0126] After the fastener 122 extends through the tab 118, the operator can engage the fastener 122 and the wheel 10. For example, the operator can thread the bolt threads 130 and the tab threads 132 of the wheel bosses 71, 145. In some examples, the operator applies torque to the fastener head 126 to engage the bolt threads 130 and the tab threads 132. Twisting the fastener head 126 can compress a portion of the tab 118 (e.g., the portion surrounding the tab hole 124) between the fastener head 126 and the wheel bosses 71, 145.

[0127] Although the technical description is based on the operator's instructions Figure 11 However, in some examples, Figure 11 All or part of the technology shown can be performed automatically by a machine.

[0128] Various examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A rotor drive key assembly, comprising: An insert configured to engage with a wheel boss of a wheel; and A rotor drive key, configured to mate with the insert, wherein the insert is configured to mechanically connect the rotor drive key to the wheel boss, and wherein, when the insert mechanically connects the rotor drive key to the wheel boss, the insert is positioned between the rotor drive key and the wheel boss. The rotor drive key defines at least one of the following: a recess configured to receive a protrusion defined by the insert, or a protrusion configured to be inserted into the recess defined by the insert to engage with the insert.

2. The rotor drive key assembly of claim 1, wherein the insert defines at least one of: a recess configured to receive a protrusion defined by the wheel boss, or a protrusion configured to be inserted into the recess defined by the wheel boss to engage with the wheel boss.

3. The rotor drive key assembly of claim 1, wherein when the rotor drive key engages with the insert, a portion of the rotor drive key is configured to engage the wheel boss.

4. The rotor drive key assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the insert is configured to restrict movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in the substantially radial direction of the wheel when the insert engages with the wheel boss.

5. The rotor drive key assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the insert is configured to restrict movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in the substantially axial direction of the wheel when the insert engages with the wheel boss.

6. The rotor drive key assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rotor drive key is configured to translate over the insert in a substantially axial direction of the wheel to engage with the insert.

7. The rotor drive key assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rotor drive key is configured to restrict movement of the insert relative to the wheel boss in a substantially tangential direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key engages with the insert and the insert engages with the wheel boss.

8. The rotor drive key assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rotor drive key is configured to receive a fastener in the substantially axial direction of the wheel when the rotor drive key engages with the insert and the insert engages with the wheel boss.

9. A method for operating a rotor drive key assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: The insert engages with a wheel boss of a wheel, wherein the wheel boss extends in the substantially radial direction of the wheel. as well as Mechanically connecting the rotor drive key and the wheel boss, wherein mechanically connecting the rotor drive key and the wheel boss includes engaging the rotor drive key with the insert, and wherein when the insert mechanically connects the rotor drive key and the wheel boss, the insert is located between the rotor drive key and the wheel boss.

10. The method according to claim 9, The engagement of the insert with the wheel boss includes translating the insert above the wheel boss in a substantially tangential direction of the wheel, and Engaging the rotor drive key with the insert includes translating the rotor drive key above the insert in a substantially axial direction of the wheel.

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