Wheel locking device

Abstract

A device for locking a wheel of a vehicle. The device comprises a main module, which is suitable for being attached to the wheel and is configured to cover a nut or bolt used to attach the wheel to the vehicle. The device also comprises an insertion structure, which comprises an upper part and a lower part, wherein the upper part is rotatably engaged to the lower part via an axial joint. The device also comprises a central bolt and a locking structure, wherein the central bolt is suitable for passing through the main module and being connected to the lower part of the insertion structure by means of a threaded connection, and the locking mechanism is suitable for being arranged in a locked state and an open state, in which the locking mechanism prevents the central bolt from rotating relative to the main module, and in which the locking mechanism allows the central bolt to rotate relative to the main module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present inventive concept relates to techniques for preventing unauthorized removal of vehicle wheels. More particularly, the present inventive concept relates to disclosing a universal integrated locking system for automotive wheels. Background Art

[0002] Unauthorized removal of automotive parts, especially alloy wheels, is a recurring problem throughout the world. Custom wheels and tire rims are examples of items that are frequently stolen due to their high value. Therefore, there is a great need for devices and techniques for protecting wheels from unauthorized removal.

[0003] Attempts have been made to provide such protection. For example, U.S. Patent Nos. 8,739,585 and 8,943,865 disclose anti-theft devices for automobile wheels. These devices can be relatively easily removed by an experienced thief and therefore do not provide a truly reliable wheel lock. U.S. Patent No. 9,689,180, issued to the inventor of the present application, provides a device for providing a secure wheel lock. However, in view of the wide variety of automobile makes and models around the world, there is a need for an improved wheel lock system that fits most automobile wheels without requiring significant adjustments. Summary of the invention

[0004] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide a technology that solves at least some of the above problems. This object and other objects that will become apparent hereinafter are achieved by a device for locking the wheels of a vehicle according to the present invention. In addition, preferred embodiments are provided below.

[0005] Therefore, according to a first aspect of the inventive concept, a device for locking a wheel of a vehicle is provided. The device comprises a main module, which is adapted to be attached to the wheel and is configured to cover a nut or bolt for attaching the wheel to the vehicle. The device also comprises an insertion structure, which comprises an upper part or a lower part, wherein the upper part is rotatably engaged to the lower part by an axial joint. When the upper part rotates around the axial joint, the insertion structure can also be converted from an open position to a closed position, wherein the insertion structure in the open position is adapted to be inserted into the wheel in a coaxial manner with the rotation axis of the wheel, and wherein the insertion structure in the closed position is adapted to: when the insertion structure is converted to the closed position after being inserted into the wheel, the insertion structure is fixed in the wheel. The device also comprises a central bolt and a locking mechanism, which is adapted to be connected to the lower part of the insertion structure by means of a threaded connection through the main module, and the locking mechanism is adapted to be arranged in a locked state and an open state, in which the locking structure prevents the central bolt from rotating relative to the main module, and in which the locking mechanism allows the central bolt to rotate relative to the main module.

[0006] The main module may include a protective element or blocking device adapted to restrict, limit or block access to the bolt heads and / or lug nuts, thereby discouraging or at least making it more difficult for unauthorized persons to loosen the bolts / lug nuts and remove the wheel. The protective element may form an integral part of the main module or be attached to the main module as a separate component and may preferably be arranged in a configuration corresponding to the position of the bolts / nuts of the wheel.

[0007] The insertion structure is arranged to secure the device to the wheel, which can be achieved by inserting the insertion structure into the wheel hub when in an open position to further secure the insertion structure firmly in the wheel hub by converting the insertion structure to a closed position. The insertion structure in the closed position exerts a force on the inner wall of the wheel hub, thereby preventing the insertion structure from being released from the wheel, even when subjected to large forces in the axial direction of the wheel. The term "hub" refers herein to the cylindrical hollow central portion of a vehicle wheel that is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the wheel. The term "inner wall of the hub" refers herein to one or more inner surfaces of the hub. In addition, the insertion structure can have, but is not limited to, an annular shape or a circular shape, thereby allowing the insertion structure to be more suitable for the wheel hub of the vehicle.

[0008] Other advantages of the insertion structure are that it allows the device to be mounted on a wheel of a vehicle without having to remove the wheel from the vehicle for mounting, thereby increasing the usability of the device for the user. Furthermore, by having the upper portion joined to the lower portion by an axial joint, the insertion structure also reduces the number of components required to secure the device to the wheel of the vehicle to only the insertion structure, which in turn reduces the complexity of the device.

[0009] The central bolt included in the device can be threaded directly in the material of the central bolt, and engaged to the insertion structure via a corresponding thread directly machined in the material of the lower part of the insertion structure. The corresponding thread can be oriented so that the central bolt moves along the rotation axis of the wheel when rotating. The rotation can be achieved, for example, by means of a key or wrench equipped with the central bolt or by means of manpower. When the main module is installed and fixed, for example, by screwing the central bolt as described above, the locking mechanism can enter its locked state to prevent unauthorized individuals from removing the locking device and approaching the nut / bolt of the wheel. The locking mechanism can be configured to prevent the central bolt from turning or rotating in the main module. This can be achieved in a variety of ways, some of which will be discussed in further detail in conjunction with the detailed description of the accompanying drawings. In one example, the locking mechanism can include a locking bolt that can be fixed to the central bolt and the main module to prevent the rotational movement between the central bolt and the main module. The locking bolt of the locking mechanism can, for example, have a flat side engaged with the corresponding surface in the central bolt and the main module to prevent the locking bolt from rotating. In the locked state, the locking mechanism can be axially fixed to, for example, a wheel by means of a washer configured to engage with the back side of the main module or by engaging corresponding recesses and projections between the locking bolt and the central bolt. To bring the locking mechanism into the open state, the washer or the corresponding recess and projection can be rotated so that the washer or the corresponding recess and projection can be released from engagement with the main module or the central bolt, and the locking bolt can be removed from the central bolt.

[0010] In some examples, the locking mechanism may be a key operated lock, such as, for example, an Assa Desmo+ cam lock or an Abloy cam lock.

[0011] According to an embodiment, the upper part of the insertion structure may include a lower surface, and the lower part of the insertion structure may include an upper surface, so that the lower surface abuts against the upper surface when the insertion structure is in the closed position. An advantage of this embodiment is that the abutment of the lower surface on the upper surface acts as a limiter for the maximum rotation of the upper part relative to the lower part around the axial joint when the insertion structure is converted to the closed position. The above-mentioned limiter provided by the abutment of the lower surface on the upper surface allows both the upper part and the lower part to be in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the wheel of the vehicle when the insertion structure is in the closed position.

[0012] According to an embodiment, when the insertion structure is in the open position, the upper portion of the insertion structure can form an angle with the lower portion of the insertion structure. The angle formed between the upper portion and the lower portion can be directly proportional to the rotation of the upper portion relative to the lower portion around the axial joint. The advantage of this embodiment is that this embodiment allows the insertion structure to achieve a reduced circumferential or peripheral size, thereby allowing and facilitating the coaxial insertion of the insertion structure into the wheel hub of the vehicle. For some types of wheels, the reduced circumferential or peripheral size can be less than the size of the wheel hub opening. Other advantages of this embodiment are that the reduction of the circumferential or peripheral size of the insertion structure is also proportional to the angle formed between the upper portion and the lower portion, thereby improving the adaptability of the insertion structure to a wider range of sizes, models and sizes of wheels that can be inserted and fixed by the device of the present invention. It should also be understood that when in the closed position, the angle formed by the upper portion of the insertion structure and the lower portion of the insertion structure can be about or equal to 0°, and when in the open position, the angle can be about or equal to 145°, most preferably about or equal to 90°. Therefore, the angles described herein may range from 0° to 145°, most preferably from 0° to 90°.

[0013] Thus, in the closed position, the upper portion may be arranged in a first plane and the lower portion may be arranged in a second plane parallel to the first plane. When transitioning from the closed position to the open position about the axial joint, the angle formed between the upper and lower portions of the insertion structure may be the angle between the first plane and the second plane.

[0014] Therefore, the rotation axis of the axial joint can be arranged in the second plane or in a plane parallel to the second plane.As an example, the axial joint can include a hinge with a hinge pin, and the hinge pin can be arranged in the second plane or in a plane parallel to the second plane.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the upper part and the lower part of the insert structure may respectively comprise a first through hole and a second through hole, and the first through hole and the second through hole may be adapted to receive the central bolt. Thus, the upper part comprises the first through hole and the lower part comprises the second through hole.

[0016] As an example, the upper portion may be formed with a first annular structure arranged in a first plane and surrounding the first through hole, and the lower portion may be formed with an annular structure arranged in a second plane and surrounding the second through hole.

[0017] When the insertion structure is in the closed position, the first through hole and the second through hole can be coaxial. When the insertion structure is in the closed position and firmly inserted into the wheel, the through hole can also be coaxial with the rotation axis of the wheel. In addition, the lower surface of the upper part of the insertion structure and the upper surface of the lower part of the insertion structure can respectively define the circumferential portion of the first through hole and the second through hole, so that when the insertion structure is in the closed position, the abutment of the surfaces ensures the coaxiality of the first through hole and the second through hole. Another advantage of this embodiment is that, when in the closed position, the first through hole allows the central bolt to pass through the first through hole and be fixed to the threaded portion in the material of the inner surface of the second through hole formed on the lower part of the insertion structure. In addition, the advantage of this embodiment is that the reception of the central bolt by the first through hole and the second through hole allows the upper part to be completely constrained around the axial joint relative to the lower part, so that the device is firmly fixed to the wheel of the vehicle.

[0018] According to an embodiment, when the insertion structure is in a closed position, the first through hole of the upper part and the second through hole of the lower part can be coaxial, and the diameter of the first through hole can be larger than the diameter of the second through hole. As previously mentioned, the closed position of the insertion structure allows the first through hole and the second through hole to be coaxial together and coaxial with the rotation axis of the wheel for mounting the device. An advantage of this embodiment is that the larger diameter of the first through hole allows the lower part of the insertion structure to include more material, thereby making the thread of the inner wall of the second through hole stronger and more secure, thereby making the connection with the corresponding thread of the central bolt stronger, thereby allowing to improve the fixing strength of the device to the wheel of the vehicle. Another advantage of this embodiment is that this embodiment allows sufficient material and therefore sufficient space for positioning the axial joint to deviate from the diameter of the second through hole.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the lower portion of the insertion structure may include a first protecting portion and the upper portion of the insertion structure may include a second protecting portion, such that when the insertion structure is in a closed position, the first protecting portion partially surrounds the upper portion and the second protecting portion partially surrounds the lower portion. An advantage of this embodiment is that by having the upper and lower portions engage with each other rather than overlap, this embodiment allows for a reduction in the material required to form the insertion structure, thereby reducing the weight of the insertion structure. In addition, this embodiment allows for greater resistance to axial and torsional forces applied to the insertion structure, thereby protecting the axial engagement portion from potentially destructive stresses and strains generated by the forces. A further advantage of this embodiment is that the first protecting portion and the second protecting portion also ensure that the first through hole and the second through hole are coaxial when the insertion structure is in a closed position.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the upper part of the insertion structure and the lower part of the insertion structure may include a first wedge-shaped portion and a second wedge-shaped portion, respectively. An advantage of this embodiment is that the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion represent components that allow the insertion structure to be firmly fixed in the wheel hub of the vehicle. According to another embodiment, the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion may be arranged on opposite sides of a coaxial diameter of the first through hole of the upper part of the insertion structure and the second through hole of the lower part. The first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion are positioned so that the insertion structure has a flat bottom surface when it is in the closed position.

[0021] According to an embodiment, the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion can determine an outer diameter of the insertion structure, wherein the outer diameter can be reduced when the insertion structure is converted to the open position. An advantage of this embodiment is that the rotation of the upper part of the insertion structure about the axis joint of the insertion structure relative to the lower part of the insertion structure thus allows the first wedge-shaped portion to rotate in a similar manner, thereby reducing the outer diameter. Reducing the outer diameter also allows the insertion structure to reach a size that makes it possible and uncomplicated to insert into the hub. It should be understood that when the insertion structure is in the closed position, the outer diameter determined by the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion reaches a maximum value, and when the insertion structure is in the open position, the outer diameter reaches a minimum value, and the angle formed between the upper part and the lower part reaches a maximum value.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion may be configured to fix the insertion structure by engaging with the wheel of the vehicle when the insertion structure is in the closed position. As described above, when the insertion structure is inserted into the wheel and converted to the closed position, the outer diameter of the insertion structure determined by the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion reaches the maximum value of the outer diameter, thereby allowing the outer diameter to be larger than the size of the hub entrance for the insertion structure to be inserted. Therefore, an advantage of this embodiment is that this embodiment allows the surfaces of the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion to exert a force on the inner wall of the hub, so that the device is firmly fixed in the wheel of the vehicle and increases the resistance to the force applied in the axial direction of the wheel. In other words, the force applied by the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion on the inner wall of the hub prevents the device from being released from the wheel due to a pulling force or a pushing force applied to the device.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion can be configured to release the wheel of the vehicle when the insertion structure is in the open position. As described in the aforementioned embodiment, the outer diameter of the insertion structure determined by the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion can be reduced by converting the insertion structure to the open position, thereby allowing the outer diameter to reach a smaller and appropriate size to allow the insertion structure to be released from the wheel of the vehicle. Another advantage of this embodiment is that the rotation of the upper part of the insertion structure relative to the lower part about the axial joint allows at least one of the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion to stop applying force to the inner wall of the wheel hub, so that the insertion structure is released from the wheel of the vehicle and can be withdrawn.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the locking mechanism may include a locking projection, an insertion bushing, and a removable locking bolt, the locking projection being formed in the central bolt, the insertion bushing having a third through hole and being adapted to be non-rotatable relative to the main module, the removable locking bolt being adapted to be inserted into the main module via the third through hole and the locking projection. The locking projection and the third through hole may also be configured to align with each other, and the locking bolt may be adapted to prevent the central bolt from rotating relative to the locking structure. The insertion bushing may include a recess and a projection configured to engage with the corresponding recess and projection of the main module. The device also includes a locking cap, which is adapted to be non-rotatable relative to the main module. The locking cap may include a fourth through hole and a recess and a projection, the fourth through hole being adapted to receive the locking bolt, the recess and projection of the locking cap being configured to engage with the corresponding recess and projection of the insertion bushing. This embodiment allows the central bolt to reduce the undesirable rotational movement that may cause the device to be released from the wheel of the vehicle.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the removable locking bolt may include a key hole and may be operated by turning a key in the lock, and wherein the removable locking bolt may be configured to be inserted via the front side of the device and to be fixed in the axial direction by engaging with the locking projection of the central bolt. An advantage of this embodiment is that it allows the user to simply use the device without requiring any tools or assembly equipment other than a specified key. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention. Reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a device for locking a wheel of a vehicle according to an embodiment, the device comprising all components,

[0028] Figure 2ashows a perspective view of an insertion structure in an open position according to an embodiment,

[0029] Figure 2b shows a perspective view of an insertion structure in a closed position according to an embodiment,

[0030] Figure 3a showing a side view of an insertion structure in both an open position and a closed position according to an embodiment,

[0031] Figure 3b shows a top view of an insertion structure in both an open position and a closed position according to an embodiment,

[0032] Figure 4a shows an insertion structure in an open position inserted in a wheel hub according to an embodiment,

[0033] Figure 4b shows an insert structure in a closed position securely secured in a wheel hub according to an embodiment,

[0034] Figure 5 shows a sectional view of a wheel of a vehicle equipped with components of a device according to an embodiment,

[0035] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a wheel of a vehicle on which a locking mechanism according to an embodiment is installed is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Figure 1 An exploded view of a device 200 for locking a wheel of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, the device 200 comprising an insertion structure 201 shown in a closed position, a main module 202, an insertion bushing 203, a central bolt 204, a locking cap 205, a removable locking bolt 206 and a protective cover 207. The device 200 according to the present invention is arranged to be initially mounted on a wheel of a vehicle by inserting the insertion structure 201 into the wheel hub of the wheel protected by the device 200. The insertion structure 201 can be inserted into the wheel hub in an open position to be further securely fixed in the wheel hub by switching to a closed position. Further details about the insertion structure 201 will be described in subsequent figures. Figure 1 Also shown is a main module 202 having a plurality of protective elements 210 adapted to constrain, limit or block bolt heads and / or lug nuts approaching a wheel of a vehicle protected by the device 200. The protective elements 210 are Figure 1200 is shown as an integral part of the main module 202 and forms a structure corresponding to the position of the bolts / nuts on the wheel. The main module 202 also includes an opening 211 located in the center of the main module 202, which allows components to pass through the main module 202 and engage with the insertion structure 201, thereby fixing the device 200 to the wheel of the vehicle. Figure 1 The main module 202 shown in FIG. 2 also includes a recessed structure 212 located on a circumferential portion of the opening 211 of the main module 202, which is arranged to be engaged by a corresponding outwardly directed protruding structure 213 included on a circumferential portion of the insert bushing 203. Figure 1 The insert bushing 203 shown in FIG. 1 further comprises a third through hole 214 as described in the previous embodiment and a recessed structure 215 on the circumferential portion of the third through hole 214. The insert bushing 203 is intended to engage with the main module 202 in the opening 211 of the main module 202 and in turn receive the central bolt 204. Figure 1 The central bolt 204 shown in the figure includes a cylindrical body with a hollow central portion and a bottom threaded portion 216 formed directly in the material of the outer wall of the lower portion of the central bolt 204. It should be noted that the central bolt is not limited to having a hollow central portion and may also include a through hole. The central bolt 204 also includes a locking protrusion ( Figure 1 (not shown), the locking protrusion is suitable for engaging with the locking mechanism and fixing the locking mechanism. Figure 1 Also shown is a locking cap 205 comprising a fourth through hole 218 adapted to receive a removable locking bolt 206 and comprising an outward protrusion structure 219 arranged to engage with a corresponding recess structure 215 of the insert bushing 203 . Figure 1 The removable locking bolt 206 or locking member shown in the figure may include a locking recess (not shown) and may be adapted to be inserted into the central bolt 204 and adapted to engage with the locking protrusion of the central bolt 204 when the key is rotated in the key hole 208 of the removable locking bolt 206. Finally, Figure 1 A protective cover 207 is shown, which is suitable for being attached to the main module 202, for example by a snap-on function, and is suitable for covering the above-mentioned components to further protect the device 200. More specifically, the protective cover 207 is suitable for protecting the keyhole 208 and the removable locking bolt 206. Figure 1The device 200 shown in the exploded view of can be mounted on the wheel of the vehicle by first inserting the insert structure 201 in the wheel hub. The mounting is further performed by engaging the insert bushing 203 in the main module 202 via the corresponding recess structure 212 and the protrusion structure 213. Then, the central bolt 204 can be inserted through the third through hole 214 and the opening 211 of the main module 202 and cannot rotate relative to the corresponding threaded part 217 of the insert structure 201 by means of the bottom threaded part 216 of the central bolt 204. Then, the removable locking bolt 206 can be inserted into the central bolt 204 via the fourth through hole 218 of the locking cap 205, which in turn can be fixed to the insert bushing 203 by the engagement of the corresponding recess structure 215 and the protrusion structure 219. Figure 1 All components of the device 200 shown in the figure are aligned with the axis of rotation of the wheel when mounted on the wheel of the vehicle, so that all openings and through holes are coaxial. Therefore, the device 200 is fixed to the wheel of the vehicle by means of the threaded portions 216, 217, which fix the central bolt 204 to the insertion structure 201, which in turn fixes the device 200 and the components of the device 200 to the wheel. After turning the key in the keyhole 208, when the removable locking bolt 206 engages with the locking recess of the central bolt 204, the central bolt is constrained to any rotational movement that would release the central bolt from the insertion structure 201. Disassembly of the device 200 can be completed by removing the removable locking bolt 206 and rotating the central bolt 204 out of the insertion structure 201 to release the main module 202 and other components from the wheel of the vehicle.

[0037] Figure 2a and Figure 2b A perspective view of an insertion structure 300 in an open position and an insertion structure 310 in a closed position is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2a The insert structure 300 shown in FIG. 1 is shown in an open position and comprises an upper portion 303 and a lower portion 301 connected by an axial joint 302 (in Figure 2a is obscured by the structure of the upper portion 303, but in Figure 5 and Figure 6 302 are rotatably joined together, the axial joint 302 being positioned offset from the second through hole 309 and allowing the upper part 303 to rotate freely relative to the lower part 301 around the axis of the axial joint 302. Figure 2a The upper portion 303 of the insert structure 300 shown in FIG. 3 further includes a first through hole 308 and a lower surface 305 represented by a bottom circumferential surface of the first through hole 308 . Figure 2aAlso shown is a second through hole 309 included in the lower portion 301 and an upper surface 304 represented by a top circumferential surface of the second through hole 309. The lower portion 301 and the upper portion 303 include a first protecting portion 321 and a second protecting portion 320, respectively, which are arranged to partially surround the upper portion 303 and the lower portion 301, respectively. Figure 2a Also shown is a first wedge 307 included on the upper portion 303 of the insertion structure 300 and a second wedge 306 included on the lower portion 301 of the insertion structure 300. The first wedge 307 and the second wedge 306 form an integral part of the upper portion 303 and the lower portion 301 of the insertion structure 300 and are positioned opposite each other around the diameter of the through holes 308, 309. Figure 2a The insertion structure 300 in the open position shown in FIG. 3 also shows that when the upper portion 303 rotates relative to the lower portion 301 about the rotation axis of the axial joint 302, the upper portion 303 forms an angle with the lower portion 301. Figure 2b , showing the insertion structure 310 in a closed position. Figure 2b The upper portion 312 is shown engaged with the lower portion 311 such that a lower surface of the upper portion 312 abuts against an upper surface 314 of the lower portion 311 of the insert structure 310 , thereby limiting rotation of the upper portion 312 toward the lower portion 311 . Figure 2b The function of the first and second protection parts to accommodate the upper and lower parts 312 and 311 is also shown to prevent the axial force and the torsional force from damaging the insertion structure 310. The insertion structure 310 also includes a threaded portion 318 in the material of the inner wall of the second through hole of the lower part 311, which is arranged to correspond to the bottom threaded portion of the central bolt (at Figure 1 ) so that the central bolt can be securely fixed to the insertion structure 310. Figure 2b Also shown is the larger diameter of the first through-hole relative to the second through-hole and thus the larger upper surface 314 of the lower portion 311 . Figure 2b The insertion structure 310 shown in FIG. 3 further includes a first wedge-shaped portion 317 and a second wedge-shaped portion 316 , the ends of which determine the outer diameter of the insertion structure 310 . Figure 2b The insert structure 310 shown in a closed position shows that the first through hole of the upper portion 312 is positioned coaxially with the second through hole of the lower portion 311.

[0038] Figure 3a and Figure 3b A side view and a top view of an insertion structure in both an open position and a closed position are shown according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3a , showing an insertion structure 400 in an open position and an insertion structure 410 in a closed position. The open insertion structure 400 shows an angle 401 formed by the upper portion 404 and the lower portion 405 when the upper portion 404 rotates relative to the lower portion 405 about the axial joint. When the insertion structure 400 is in the open position, the angle 401 can reach a maximum of 145° when the upper portion 404 is fully rotated. When the insertion structure is converted to the open position, the rotation of the upper portion 404 relative to the lower portion 405 can be limited by the contact or abutment of the first rotation limiting surface of the upper portion 404 with the second rotation limiting surface (not shown) of the lower portion 405 of the insertion structure 400. Figure 3a Also shown is the reduced outer diameter 402 of the open insertion structure 400, which is determined by the ends of the first wedge 403 and the second wedge 406. Figure 3a 4 shows the coaxiality of the first through hole of the upper part 403 and the second through hole of the lower part 405 about the axis 411. When installed in the wheel of the vehicle, the coaxial axis 411 can represent the rotation axis of the wheel. In addition, the closed insert structure 410 shows that the upper part 404 has not rotated relative to the lower part 405 about the axial joint, so that there is no angle (0°) formed between the lower surface of the upper part 404 and the upper surface of the lower part 405. Figure 3a Also shown is the maximum outer diameter 412 achieved by the insertion structure 410 in the closed position. Figure 3a , the reduced outer diameter 402 is shown as being smaller than the maximum outer diameter 412. Figure 3b , showing Figure 3a 400 and the corresponding top view of the closed insert structure 410 shown in FIG. Figure 3b The size difference between the reduced outer diameter 402 and the maximum outer diameter 412 can be further observed in FIG. The coaxiality of the first through hole and the second through hole and the difference between the diameter of the first through hole 413 and the diameter of the second through hole 414 are Figure 3b This is even more evident in the top view of the closed insertion structure presented in .

[0039] Figure 4a An insertion structure in an open position inserted in a wheel hub is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention. The insertion structure 500 is shown in an open position, well inserted in the wheel hub 508 and aligned with the rotation axis of the wheel, so that the second through hole of the lower part 504 of the insertion structure 500 can be coaxial with the rotation axis of the wheel. Figure 4aThe first wedge 501 is also shown abutting against the inner wall surface 503 of the hub 508, while the second wedge 502 is shown without contact as the upper portion 505 rotates about the axial joint 509 toward the closed position. Figure 4a 508 as having an outer diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the hub 508, which may, for example, require that the insert structure 500 be inserted into the hub 508 at an angle and then aligned with the axis of rotation of the wheel. Figure 4a The insertion structure 500 shown in the open position may be released from the hub 508 if maintained in the open position. Figure 4a Also shown are a first rotation limiting surface 507 of the upper portion 505 and a second rotation limiting surface 506 of the lower portion 504 that limit the maximum rotation of the upper portion 505 relative to the lower portion 504 when abutted together. Figure 4b The insert structure 510 is shown in a closed position securely secured in a hub 518 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4b 5. As shown in the figure, it is aligned with the rotation axis of the wheel, so that the first through hole of the upper part and the second through hole of the lower part of the insertion structure 510 can be coaxial together and coaxial with the rotation axis of the wheel. Figure 4b Also shown is the maximum outer diameter 511 reached by the insertion structure 510 in the closed position, which is significantly larger than the diameter 512 of the wheel hub 518 to allow the first wedge portion 514 and the second wedge portion 515 to contact the inner wall 513 of the wheel hub 518 and apply force to the inner wall 513 of the wheel hub 518, thereby firmly fixing the insertion structure 510 in the wheel hub 518 and generating resistance to the force applied to the insertion structure 510 in the axial direction of the wheel of the vehicle. Figure 4b Also shown is the abutment of the lower surface 516 of the upper portion of the insert structure 510 with the upper surface 517 of the lower portion of the insert structure 510 .

[0040] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a wheel of a vehicle is shown with components of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention installed. Figure 5 520 is shown in a closed position and securely secured in the hub 520 such that the first and second wedge-shaped portions of the insert structure 522 exert a force on the inner wall of the hub 520 . Figure 5 Also shown is a central bolt 524 which passes through the first and second through holes of the insert structure 522 and is engaged to the lower portion of the insert structure 522 by corresponding threaded portions. The central bolt 524 is also shown inserted through the third through hole of the insert bushing 523, which in turn is inserted through the third through hole of the insert bushing 523. Figure 1The corresponding recessed and projecting structures described in the drawings are firmly engaged with the main module 521. Thus, the central bolt 524 firmly attaches the main module 521 and the insert bushing 523 to the insert structure 522, thereby enabling the protective element to limit or block the bolt head and / or lug nut approaching the wheel of the vehicle. Figure 5 Also shown is a locking cap 526 which is also secured to the Figure 1 The central bolt 524 is securely fixed to the insert bushing 523 by the engagement of the corresponding recessed structure and protruding structure described in the specification, and is superimposed on the central bolt 524 to constrain or limit access to the central bolt 524 and limit the rotation of the central bolt 524, which rotation may cause the central bolt 524 to be released from the insert structure 522. Figure 5 Also shown is a locking projection 525 located on the inner wall of the hollow central portion of the central bolt 524, which is arranged to engage with a component of a locking mechanism (not shown).

[0041] Figure 6 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a wheel of a vehicle in which a locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed. Figure 5 Description, Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 5 The insertion structure 670 of the description of the following homologous parts as well as the central bolt 640, the insertion bushing 660, the main module 600, the protective element 650 and the locking cap 680, the insertion structure 670 is in a closed position and is firmly fixed in the hub 630, so that the first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion of the insertion structure 670 exert force on the inner wall of the hub 630. Figure 6 Also shown is a removable locking bolt 610 including a key hole (not shown) which is inserted into the central bolt 640 through a fourth through hole of the locking cap 680 . Figure 6 The detachable locking bolt 610 shown in the figure also includes a locking recess 620, which allows the detachable locking bolt 610 to be inserted into the hollow central portion of the central bolt 640 when the locking mechanism is in the open position. Therefore, when the detachable locking bolt 610 is rotated, that is, when the locking mechanism is switched to the locked state, the locking recess 620 engages with the locking protrusion 690 of the central bolt 640 to restrict the components of the device of the present invention from approaching or rotating, thereby firmly locking the device to the wheel of the vehicle.

[0042] The device can be manufactured from various types of materials; however, aluminum and steel are preferred materials.

[0043] Other variations of the disclosed embodiments may be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the present disclosure and the appended claims. In the claims, the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A device for locking a wheel of a vehicle, the device comprising: a main module adapted to be attached to the wheel and configured to cover nuts or bolts used to attach the wheel to the vehicle; An insertion structure, the insertion structure comprising an upper part and a lower part, wherein the upper part is rotatably engaged to the lower part via an axial engagement portion, wherein the insertion structure is capable of switching from an open position to a closed position when the upper part rotates around the axial engagement portion; wherein the insertion structure in the open position is adapted to be inserted into the wheel in a manner coaxial with the rotation axis of the wheel, and wherein the insertion structure in the closed position is adapted to fix the insertion structure in the wheel when switching to the closed position after the insertion structure is inserted into the wheel, a central bolt adapted to pass through the main module and be connected to the lower portion of the insertion structure by a threaded connection, and A locking mechanism, the locking mechanism comprising at least a detachable locking bolt, the locking mechanism being suitable for being arranged in a locked state and an open state, wherein in the locked state, the locking mechanism prevents the central bolt from rotating relative to the main module, and in the open state, the locking mechanism allows the central bolt to rotate relative to the main module.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The upper portion includes a lower surface and the lower portion includes an upper surface such that the lower surface abuts the upper surface when the insertion structure is in the closed position.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The upper portion of the insertion structure forms an angle with the lower portion of the insertion structure when the insertion structure is in the open position.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The upper part and the lower part of the insert structure comprise a first through hole and a second through hole, respectively, and wherein the first through hole and the second through hole are adapted to receive the central bolt.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein: The first through hole of the upper portion and the second through hole of the lower portion are coaxial when the insertion structure is in the closed position, and wherein a diameter of the first through hole is greater than a diameter of the second through hole.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The lower portion includes a first protecting portion and the upper portion includes a second protecting portion, such that when the insertion structure is in the closed position, the first protecting portion partially surrounds the upper portion and the second protecting portion partially surrounds the lower portion.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The upper portion of the insert structure and the lower portion of the insert structure include a first wedge-shaped portion and a second wedge-shaped portion, respectively.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein: The first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion are arranged on opposite sides of a coaxial diameter of a first through hole of the upper portion and a second through hole of the lower portion of the insertion structure.

9. The device according to claim 7, wherein: The first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion determine an outer diameter of the insertion structure, and wherein the outer diameter decreases when the insertion structure is transformed to the open position.

10. The device according to claim 7, wherein: The first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion are configured to secure the insertion structure by engaging the wheel of the vehicle when the insertion structure is in the closed position.

11. The device according to claim 7, wherein: The first wedge-shaped portion and the second wedge-shaped portion are configured to release the wheel of the vehicle when the insertion structure is in the open position.

12. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The locking mechanism comprises: a locking projection formed in the central bolt; an insert bushing having a third through hole and adapted to be non-rotatable relative to the main module; and a detachable locking bolt adapted to be inserted into the main module via the third through hole and the locking protrusion; wherein the locking protrusion and the third through hole are configured to be aligned with each other; and The locking bolt is adapted to prevent the central bolt from rotating relative to the insertion structure.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein: The insert bushing includes a recess and a projection, the recess and the projection of the insert bushing being configured to engage with corresponding recess and projection of the primary module.

14. The device according to claim 12 further includes a locking cap, which is suitable for being unable to rotate relative to the main module, and the locking cap includes a fourth through hole and a recess and a protrusion, the fourth through hole is suitable for receiving a locking bolt, and the recess and the protrusion of the locking cap are configured to engage with the corresponding recess and protrusion of the insert bushing.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein: The removable locking bolt comprises a key hole and can be operated by turning a key in the lock, and wherein the removable locking bolt is configured to be inserted via the front side of the device and to be fixed in the axial direction by engaging with the locking projection of the central bolt.

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