Wheel cover device for a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a wheel cover device for a vehicle comprising a mounting bracket configured to be mounted to a wheel. The device comprises a first fastening element provided on the mounting bracket, the first fastening element having a first thread. The device comprises a cover panel for covering the wheel, the cover panel having a through hole. The device further has a button movably retained on the mounting bracket and the first fastening element, the button comprising at least one pin. A spring is supported on the mounting bracket and the button. The device further comprises a second fastening element having a second thread, at least one socket and at least one ramp.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a wheel cover device for vehicles, particularly commercial vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] US9327550B2 discloses a wheel cover system including a support assembly configured to be coupled to a wheel. The wheel cover system also includes a disc assembly having an internal portion. The wheel cover system further includes a push-and-hold mechanism coupled to the support assembly and compatible with the internal portion of the disc assembly.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a wheel cover device that allows at least one wheel of a vehicle to be covered in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0004] This objective is achieved by a wheel cover device having the claimed features and a wheel cover device having the claimed features. The patent claims also point to advantageous embodiments with advantageous developments of the invention. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A first aspect of the invention relates to a wheel cover assembly for a vehicle (e.g., a commercial vehicle). The wheel cover assembly includes a mounting bracket configured to be mounted to a wheel of the vehicle. For example, the mounting bracket may be mounted to the wheel hub. The wheel cover assembly also includes a first fastening element disposed on the mounting bracket. For example, the mounting bracket and the first fastening element are separately manufactured components that can be connected to each other. The first fastening element has a first thread configured as an external thread. The wheel cover assembly also includes a cover panel for covering the wheel in the axial direction of the wheel. For example, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle and therefore the wheel cover assembly, the wheel is at least partially, particularly at least primarily or completely, covered outwardly in the axial direction of the wheel by the cover panel, which is particularly removably attached to the wheel, particularly to the wheel hub, in the fully assembled state of the vehicle and the wheel cover assembly. The cover panel has a through-hole. Furthermore, the wheel cover assembly includes a button movably held on the mounting bracket and the first fastening element. This means that the button can move relative to the mounting bracket and the first fastening element, particularly by translational movement. For example, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the button can be translated in the axial direction of the wheel relative to the mounting bracket and the first fastening element. The button includes at least one pin.

[0006] Furthermore, the wheel well assembly includes a spring, which is supported at least indirectly, and particularly directly, on the mounting bracket and the button. For example, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the spring supports the button and the first fastening element in the axial direction of the wheel. Relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the axial direction of the wheel coincides with the direction of movement in which the button can translate relative to the first fastening element. Furthermore, the spring supports both the button and the first fastening element in the direction of movement. Therefore, for example, by moving the button in a first direction extending parallel to the direction of movement, the spring is tensioned, and in particular compressed. By tensioning the spring, the spring provides a spring force acting on the button in a second direction, opposite to the first direction and extending parallel to the direction of movement. For example, the button can be moved in the second direction by the spring force.

[0007] The second fastening element has a second thread, which may be configured as an internal thread. Preferably, the threads correspond to each other, such that the threads, and therefore the fastening elements, can be tightened together by rotating the fastening elements relative to each other and / or about an axis of rotation. Preferably, the axis of rotation coincides with the direction of movement. Furthermore, the second fastening element includes at least one socket and at least one bevel. Preferably, the socket and bevel are arranged on the back side of the second fastening element, wherein, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the back side faces the wheel in the axial direction of the wheel. Furthermore, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the back side faces the first fastening element and the mounting bracket. In order to secure the cover panel to the first fastening element and thus to the mounting bracket and the wheel, the second fastening element is configured to be inserted into a through hole and subsequently rotated relative to the cover panel, the button, and the first fastening element, particularly about the axis of rotation. In other words, in order to secure or attach the cover panel to the first fastening element and thus to the mounting bracket and the wheel, the second fastening element is inserted into the through hole, particularly in such a way that the second fastening element passes through the through hole. Subsequently, the second fastening element rotates relative to the cover panel, the first fastening element, and the button as it passes through the through hole. By rotating the second fastening element relative to the cover panel, the button, and the first fastening element as it passes through the through hole, the fastening elements can be screwed together by threads. In this way, the cover panel is secured to the first fastening element and the mounting bracket by the second fastening element.

[0008] In other words, the second fastening element is configured to interact with the cover panel in such a way that when the fastening elements are screwed together, the cover panel is attached or secured to the first fastening element and thus to the mounting bracket. In this respect, for example, the second fastening element has a collar that can be supported on the cover panel towards the wheel in the axial direction of the wheel, such that the second fastening element can secure the cover panel to the first fastening element via the collar. Furthermore, by screwing the fastening elements together via the threads, the pin slides along the ramp and into the socket. Because, for example, the ramp gradually rises over its extension in the circumferential direction of the second fastening element, particularly from the back side or from the surface of the back side, when the fastening elements are screwed together (i.e., when the pin slides along the gradually rising ramp), the pin, and therefore the button, moves in the first direction. In this respect, the ramp gradually rises along the axial direction of the wheel, particularly along the direction of movement or in the first direction. Therefore, the spring is tensioned. By further rotating the second fastening element relative to the cover panel, the first fastening element, and the button, the pin moves from the ramp into the socket after sliding along the gradually rising ramp. Therefore, the spring can be partially relaxed, allowing the button and thus the pin to move in a second direction by the spring (i.e., spring force). Thus, the pin moves into the socket by the spring or spring force. When the pin is in the socket, preferably, the spring remains tensioned, such that the pin is tensioned into the socket by the spring or spring force.

[0009] Preferably, the socket is restricted in the circumferential direction of the second fastening element, such that the socket is restricted in both the first and second rotational directions, wherein the first and second rotational directions are aligned with the circumferential direction of the second fastening element, and wherein the second rotational direction is opposite to the first rotational direction. Therefore, the second fastening element is secured to prevent rotation relative to the first fastening element, the mounting bracket, and the button in both the first and second rotational directions. Thus, the cover panel is securely held on the wheel.

[0010] To remove the cover panel from the wheel, the button is moved, particularly pushed, for example, by moving the button in a first direction relative to the cover panel and the fastening element. Specifically, the button moves in the first direction such that the pin is dislodged from the socket. Therefore, the second fastening element can rotate relative to the cover panel, the first fastening element, and the button, allowing the fastening element to be unscrewed.

[0011] This invention can help improve the fuel economy of a vehicle by improving the aerodynamic characteristics along the wheel, which may be configured, for example, as a rear wheel. Mounting brackets, fastening elements, springs, and buttons can form an attachment mechanism through which the cover panel can be easily attached to and removed from the wheel. Furthermore, the attachment mechanism can be low-cost, durable, and allow for tire maintainability. The attachment mechanism can be designed to be robust and provide auditory and tactile feedback to the person attaching the cover panel to the wheel. For example, when the second fastening element rotates relative to the cover panel, the first fastening element, and the button, causing the spring to relax and thus move the button and pin in a second direction, and as a result, the pin engages the socket and is tensioned into the socket by the spring or spring force, the person can see, feel, and / or hear this movement of the button and pin in the second direction, because, for example, a clicking sound may occur when the pin engages the socket. This clicking sound may occur, for example, due to the movement of the pin against a wall region of the second fastening element via the spring, which, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, defines the socket outwards in the second direction, particularly in the axial direction of the wheel. Furthermore, the cost of wheel arch components can be kept exceptionally low, thus keeping the overall cost of the wheel arch system exceptionally low. Additionally, the vehicle's particularly advantageous aerodynamic characteristics can be achieved through the wheel arch system, allowing for exceptionally low energy consumption, especially fuel consumption.

[0012] A second aspect of the invention relates to a wheel cover device for a vehicle (e.g., a commercial vehicle). The wheel cover device according to the second aspect of the invention includes a mounting bracket configured to be mounted to a wheel of the vehicle. For example, the mounting bracket may be mounted to the wheel hub. The wheel cover device according to the second aspect of the invention also includes a fastening element disposed on the mounting bracket. For example, the mounting bracket and the fastening element are separately manufactured components configured to be connectable to each other. The fastening element has a first thread, which may be configured as an external thread. The fastening element according to the second aspect of the invention also includes at least one bevel and at least one socket. The wheel cover device according to the second aspect of the invention also includes a cover panel for covering the wheel in the axial direction of the wheel, for example, relative to the vehicle and thus the fully assembled state of the wheel cover device. The wheel is at least partially, particularly at least primarily or completely covered by the cover panel outwardly in the axial direction of the wheel. In the fully assembled state of the vehicle and the wheel cover device, in particular, the cover panel is removably attached to the wheel, particularly to the wheel hub. The cover panel has a through-hole. Furthermore, the wheel cover device according to the second aspect includes a handle having a gripping portion for manually rotating the handle. In other words, a person can grasp the gripping part and then rotate the gripping part and thus rotate the handle, specifically about the axis of rotation. The handle also has a pin portion including at least one pin.

[0013] Additionally, the handle has a threaded portion including a second thread. For example, the second thread can be configured as an internal thread. The threaded portion is translatably movable relative to the gripping portion and the pin portion along the direction of movement. This means that the pin portion can be translated relative to the pin portion and the gripping portion to a first direction, wherein the first direction is parallel to the direction of movement. Furthermore, the threaded portion can be translated relative to the pin portion and the gripping portion to a second direction, wherein the second direction is parallel to the direction of movement and is opposite to the first direction. Furthermore, although the threaded portion is translatably movable relative to the pin portion and the gripping portion along the direction of movement, the threaded portion is rotationally fixed to both the pin portion and the gripping portion. Furthermore, the gripping portion and the pin portion are rotationally fixed to each other. Therefore, by rotating the gripping portion, the gripping portion, the pin portion, and the threaded portion rotate together. Furthermore, the handle has at least one spring element, which is preferably configured as a mechanical spring. The threaded portion is supported on the pin portion along the direction of movement such that, for example, by translating the threaded portion relative to the pin portion and the gripping portion to the first direction, the spring element is tensioned, in particular compressed. As a result, the spring element provides a spring force acting in the second direction, such that, for example, the threaded portion can be translated in the second direction relative to the pin portion and the gripping portion by the spring force.

[0014] To secure the cover panel to the fastening element and thus to the mounting bracket and wheels, the handle is configured, particularly manually, to be inserted into a through-hole and subsequently rotated relative to the cover panel and fastening element via a gripping portion. In other words, to secure or attach the cover panel to the fastening element and thus to the mounting bracket and wheels, the handle is inserted into the through-hole, particularly by passing the handle through the through-hole. Subsequently, while the handle passes through the through-hole, it is rotated relative to the cover panel and fastening element via the gripping portion. By rotating the handle relative to the cover panel and thus to the fastening element, and consequently rotating the gripping portion, pin portion, and threaded portion, while the handle passes through the through-hole, the fastening element and threaded portion can be tightened together by threads. Thus, the cover panel is secured to the fastening element and thus to the mounting bracket via the handle.

[0015] In this respect, for example, the handle can have a collar that is supported on the cover panel in the axial direction of the wheel, such that the handle can secure the cover panel to the fastening element via the collar. Furthermore, by tightening the fastening element and the threaded portion together, and thus by rotating the handle relative to the cover panel and relative to the fastening element, the pin of the pin portion slides along the ramp, causing the pin portion and the gripping portion to translate relative to the threaded portion away from the fastening element in the direction of movement. Since the threaded portion already interacts with the fastening element through the thread, thus limiting or preventing the threaded portion from translating together with the gripping portion and the pin portion, the gripping portion and the pin portion translate relative to the threaded portion in the direction of movement by sliding the pin along the ramp. The handle can be rotated relative to the fastening element, and subsequently the gripping portion and the pin portion can translate relative to the threaded portion away from the fastening element in the direction of movement by sliding the pin along the ramp until the pin reaches the socket of the fastening element. In other words, the pin can slide along the ramp or can be slid along the ramp as soon as it reaches the socket. When the pin reaches the socket, the spring element, which has been tensioned by the translational movement of the gripping and pin portions relative to the threaded portion in the direction of movement, relaxes at least partially, thereby moving the pin portion into the socket while simultaneously translating the pin portion and gripping portion relative to the threaded portion in the direction of movement. In other words, when the pin reaches the socket, the at least partially tensioned, particularly compressed, spring element relaxes, causing the gripping and pin portions to translate relative to the threaded portion and relative to the fastening element in the direction of movement by the relaxed spring element, particularly by the spring force. Thus, the pin portion translates relative to the threaded portion and relative to the fastening element in the direction of movement, causing the pin to translate into the socket. As a result, the pin interacts with the fastening element, thereby preventing or limiting any further rotation of the handle relative to the cover panel and the fastening element. Therefore, the cover panel is tightly secured or attached to the fastening element and thus tightly secured or attached to the wheel.

[0016] To remove the panel from the fastener and thus from the wheel, the gripping portion, and therefore the pin portion, is pulled and thus translates relative to the threaded portion and the fastener in the direction of movement. As a result, the pin in the pin portion is raised above the socket (i.e., the pin is removed from the socket), allowing the handle to rotate or turn, thereby loosening the threads, and therefore the threaded portion and the fastener. In other words, after the pin is removed from the socket, the handle can be manually rotated or turned to loosen it from the fastener.

[0017] Other advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings. Features and combinations of features previously mentioned in the description, as well as features and combinations of features mentioned and / or shown individually in the following description of the drawings, can be used not only in the combinations indicated, but also in any other combination or individually without departing from the scope of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective front view of the wheel cover device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective front view of the cover assembly of the wheel cover device, which includes a cover panel and a second fastening element.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic three-dimensional rear view of the cover component.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic three-dimensional rear view of the second fastening element.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic three-dimensional front view of the mounting bracket, first fastening element, and button of the wheel cover assembly.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view of the first fastening element and the button.

[0024] Figure 7 It is part of a schematic stereoscopic rear view of the cover component.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a schematic perspective front view of the wheel cover device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective rear view of the wheel cover device according to the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a schematic perspective view of the cover panel of the wheel cover device according to the second embodiment.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a schematic perspective front view of the handle of the wheel cover device according to the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 12 This is a schematic perspective rear view of the handle of the wheel cover device according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 13 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the handle of the wheel cover device according to the second embodiment.

[0031] Figure 14 This is a schematic perspective front view of the mounting bracket and fastening elements of the wheel cover device according to the second embodiment.

[0032] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view of the fastening element of the wheel cover device according to the second embodiment.

[0033] In the figures, the same elements or elements with the same function are indicated by the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Figure 1 A schematic three-dimensional front view shows a wheel cover device 10 for vehicles, particularly for commercial vehicles (e.g., trucks). Figures 1 to 7 This shows a first embodiment of the wheel cover device. The wheel cover device 10 includes a mounting bracket 12 ( Figure 5 It can be installed on the vehicle's wheel 14 ( Figure 5 Specifically, the mounting bracket 12 can be mounted to the hub 16 of the wheel 14. For example, the wheel 14 can be the rear wheel of the vehicle. The mounting bracket 12 can be mounted to the hub 16 such that, for example, when the vehicle moves forward, the wheel 14 and the mounting bracket 12 can rotate together with respect to the frame and / or body about an axis of rotation.

[0035] The wheel cover assembly 10 includes a first fastening element 18 disposed on a mounting bracket 12. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first fastening element 18 and the mounting bracket 12 are constructed as separately manufactured components, wherein the first fastening element 18 is attached to the mounting bracket 12. The first fastening element 18 includes a first thread 20 (…). Figure 6 In the embodiment shown in the figure, the first thread 20 is configured as an external thread.

[0036] The wheel cover assembly 10 also includes a cover panel 22, which may be made of, for example, a plastic material. Alternatively or additionally, the cover panel 22 may be formed as a single component. The cover panel 22 is configured to cover the wheel 14 in the axial direction. For example, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the cover panel 22 is fixed to the first fastening element 18 and thus to the mounting bracket 12 and the wheel 14, such that, for example, when the vehicle moves forward, the wheel 14 and the cover panel 22 can rotate together about the axis of rotation. Furthermore, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the wheel 14 is at least partially, particularly at least primarily, or completely covered outward in the axial direction of the wheel 14. The axial direction of the wheel 14 coincides with the lateral direction of the vehicle. Furthermore, the axial direction of the wheel 14 coincides with the axis of rotation. The cover panel 22 has a central through-hole 24.

[0037] The wheel cover assembly 10 also includes a button 26, which is movably held on the mounting bracket 12 and the first fastening element 18 such that, in the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the button 26 can be translated relative to the first fastening element 18 and the mounting bracket 12 along a direction of movement coinciding with the axial direction of the wheel 14. This means that the button 26 can move in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the first and second directions extend parallel to the direction of movement. Relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the first direction points inward in the axial direction of the wheel 14 or in the lateral direction of the vehicle, while the second direction points outward in the axial direction of the wheel 14 or in the lateral direction of the vehicle. Furthermore, the button 26 includes a pin 28 and an operating area 30, which pass through a through-hole 24 when the cover panel 22 is secured to the wheel 14.

[0038] The wheel cover assembly 10 also includes a spring, not visible in the figure. Preferably, the spring is a mechanical spring. The spring is supported on the mounting bracket 12 and the button 26 along the direction of movement. Thus, by moving the button 26 relative to the mounting bracket 12 and the fastening element 18 in the first direction, the spring is tensioned, and in particular compressed. As a result, the spring provides a spring force acting on the button 26 in the second direction. Thus, for example, the button 26, and therefore the pin 28, can be moved relative to the mounting bracket 12 and the fastening element 18 in the second direction by the spring force.

[0039] In addition, the wheel cover assembly 10 includes a second fastening element 32, which is preferably manufactured separately from the cover panel 22 and the first fastening element 18. Figure 4 The second fastening element 32 is shown to include a second central through-hole 34, a second thread 36, a socket 38, and a bevel 40. The socket 38 and the bevel 40 are arranged on the back surface 42 of the second fastening element 32. With respect to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the back surface 42 faces the wheel 14 in the axial direction and thus faces the mounting bracket 12 and the first fastening element 18. In the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the cover panel 22 is secured to the wheel 14 by the mounting bracket 12, the fastening element 18, the button 26, and the second fastening element 32. Preferably, the second thread 36 is configured as an internal thread. In an embodiment, the second thread 36 may be configured as a multi-start thread to more easily accommodate the first thread 20.

[0040] As will be discussed in more detail below, in order to secure the cover panel 22 to the first fastening element 18 and thus to the mounting bracket 12 and the wheel 14, a second fastening element 32 is inserted into the through hole 24, such that the fastening element 32 passes through the through hole 24. Subsequently, the fastening element 32 is rotated relative to the cover panel 22, the fastening element 18, the button 26, and the mounting bracket 12, such that the fastening elements 32 and 18 are tightened together by threads 20 and 36. Thus, the fastening element 32 moves in the first direction and therefore towards the mounting bracket 12 and the wheel 14. Furthermore, the fastening element 32 has a collar 44 that supports the cover panel 22 in the first direction, such that by moving the fastening element 32 in the first direction while it passes through the through hole 24, the cover panel 22 also moves in the first direction. In other words, by tightening fastening elements 18 and 32 together via threads 20 and 36, cover panel 22 is fastened by fastening element 32 against fastening element 18 in a first direction via its collar 44, thereby fixing cover panel 22 to fastening element 18 and thus to wheel 14.

[0041] When the fastening element 32 is rotated relative to the fastening element 18 and the button 26, particularly about the axis of rotation, the pin 28 slides along the corresponding ramp 40. The corresponding ramp 40 gradually rises in its extension, starting from the back surface 42 or the surface 46 of the back surface 42 and continuing along the circumferential direction of the fastening element 32, wherein the ramp 40 gradually rises in the first direction. This means that the height of the ramp 40 increases relative to the height extending from the surface 46 in the first direction.

[0042] The corresponding ramp 40 rises until it reaches the socket 38. This means that the corresponding ramp 40 ends at the corresponding socket 38. Furthermore, the ramp 40 gradually rises along its extension in the circumferential direction of the fastening element 32, which extends about the axis of rotation. In the circumferential direction of the fastening element 32, the corresponding socket 38 is limited at both ends by walls 48 and 50 of the fastening element 32. This means that the corresponding socket 38 is limited by wall 48 in the first rotational direction. Furthermore, the corresponding socket 38 is limited by wall 50 in the second rotational direction. The first and second rotational directions extend in the circumferential direction of the fastening element 32 and therefore about the axis of rotation. Furthermore, the second rotational direction is opposite to the first rotational direction. Therefore, by sliding the corresponding pin 28 along the corresponding ramp 40, the pin 28, and thus the button 26, translates relative to the fastening elements 18 and 32 in the first direction. Thus, the spring is tensioned. By further rotating the fastening element 32, the corresponding pin 28 moves to overlap with the corresponding socket 38. Therefore, the spring can be partially relaxed, allowing the corresponding pin 28 to move into the corresponding socket 38 by the spring or spring force, causing the corresponding pin 28 to engage the corresponding socket 38. This means that by tightening the fastening elements 18 and 32 together via threads 20 and 36, the pin 28 slides along and into the socket 38 from the ramp 40. Therefore, the spring is tensioned in such a way that it moves the pin 28 into the socket 38, while remaining tensioned when the pin 28 is positioned in the socket 38 (i.e., when the pin 28 engages the socket 38). Thus, the pin 28 is tensioned into the socket 38 by the spring.

[0043] like Figure 1 , 3 As shown in Figure 7, the cover panel 22 and the second fastening element 32 form a cover assembly comprising two parts. The first part of the components is the cover panel 22, and the second part is the fastening element 32. The fastening element 32 can function as a handle or can be used as a handle, and the cover panel 22 can be mounted to and removed from the wheel 14 as needed via the handle. When the handle (fastening element 32) passes through the through hole 24 of the cover panel 22, the handle rotates freely within the cover panel 22. The cover panel 22 includes connecting elements, such as clips 52 ( Figure 7The second fastening element 32 is held in the through hole 24 and on the cover panel 22 in the direction of movement and thus in the axial direction of the wheel 14 by the connecting element. Furthermore, the clamp 52 allows the second fastening element 32 to rotate freely relative to the cover panel 22 while the fastening element 32 passes through the through hole 24 of the cover panel 22. In other words, the cover panel 22 and the fastening element 32 are held together in the direction of movement by the clamp 52, while the clamp 52 allows the fastening element 32 to rotate freely within the cover panel 22. Additionally, the cover panel 22 has a first locking element 54. The first fastening element 18 has a second locking element 56. For example, the corresponding locking element 54 is a protrusion, while the corresponding locking element 56 is, for example, a socket. The locking elements 54 and 56 are configured to interact with each other, thereby restricting the rotation of the cover panel 22 relative to the fastening element 18. In other words, the locking element 54 can interlock with the locking element 56, thereby interlocking with the fastening element 18 mounted on the wheel. Furthermore, when the cover panel 22 is attached or secured to the wheel 14, locking elements 54 and 56 provide alignment assistance. Relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the respective locking elements 54 and 56 have corresponding extensions along the direction of movement and thus along the axis of rotation and the lateral direction of the vehicle. The extensions of locking elements 54 and 56 prevent threads 20 and 36 from engaging until locking element 54 is in the proper position relative to locking element 56. For example, in this proper position, locking element 54 overlaps with locking element 56 or vice versa, allowing locking element 54 to move relative to fastening element 18 in a first direction, thereby moving locking element 54 into locking element 56. As a result, threads 20 and 36 can be tightened together or engaged with each other. Additionally, for example, locking elements 54 and / or 56 are angled at their respective bases or ends to aid in rotating the cover panel 22 to the proper position. When the handle is threaded onto the fastening element 18 and thus onto the wheel 14, the locking element 54 of the cover panel 22 interacts or interlocks with the corresponding locking element 56 of the fastening element 18, which is mounted on the mounting bracket 12 and thus onto the wheel 14. Preferably, the fastening element 18 is fixed to prevent rotation relative to the mounting bracket 12, which in turn is fixed to prevent rotation relative to the wheel 14. Thus, when the locking element 54 engages the corresponding locking element 56, the cover panel 22 is supported on the fastening element 18 in its circumferential direction, i.e., about the axis of rotation, and the cover panel 22 is restricted to rotating about the axis of rotation relative to the fastening element 18, the mounting bracket 12, and the wheel 14.

[0044] For example, the fastening element 18 is or can be used as a threaded receiver with threads 20 to receive a handle. The button 26 may be at least partially located within the threaded receiver. Preferably, the button 26, particularly the operating area 30, penetrates the fastening element 18. The button 26 can be translated along the direction of movement, i.e., translated relative to the fastening element 18 in a first and a second direction. However, preferably, the button 26 is fixed to prevent rotation about a rotational axis relative to the fastening element 18. Therefore, preferably, when the fastening element 32 rotates relative to the cover panel 22 and relative to the fastening element 18 about a rotational axis, the button 26 does not rotate about a rotational axis relative to the fastening element 18, such that the fastening element 32, particularly its ramp 40 and socket 38, can rotate about a rotational axis relative to the button 26. Thus, the pin 28 can slide along the ramp 40 and slide from the ramp 40 into the socket 38.

[0045] The operating area 30 is the central portion. Relative to this central portion, pin 28 is the outer pin of button 26. To restrict the rotation of button 26 relative to fastening element 18 about a rotation axis, fastening element 18 has corresponding elements, such as wall 58, on which button 26 is supported in the circumferential direction of fastening element 18, or can be supported in the circumferential direction of fastening element 18, i.e., supported about a rotation axis in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction.

[0046] like Figure 4 As shown, relative to the direction of movement of wheel 14 and therefore relative to the axial direction, the ramp 40 begins at a first height level and ends at a second height level, wherein the ramp 40 ends at the corresponding socket 38, and wherein the second height level is higher than the first height level. This means, for example, relative to the fully assembled state of the vehicle, the corresponding ramp 40 rises from surface 46 and therefore toward wheel 14 in the first direction. Furthermore, for example, the corresponding socket 38 is defined by a corresponding wall region 60 of the second fastening element 32, wherein the corresponding socket 38 is defined by the corresponding wall region 60 in the second direction. Relative to the direction of movement of wheel 14 and therefore relative to the axial direction, the corresponding wall region 60 is arranged at the first height level, or at a third height level below the second height level and above the first height level. Therefore, when pin 28 is arranged in socket 38, the spring is tensioned. Furthermore, fastening element 32 cannot rotate relative to cover panel 22, fastening element 18, and button 26 about the axis of rotation because socket 38 is restricted or constrained at both ends by walls 48 and 50 in the first and second rotational directions. Therefore, the corresponding pins 28 arranged in the corresponding sockets 38 are overlapped by walls 48 and 50 on both sides and thus in the first and second rotational directions. Therefore, when the pins 28 are arranged in the sockets 38, the fastening element 32 cannot rotate about the rotation axis relative to the button 26, the fastening element 18 and the cover panel 22.

[0047] To secure or attach the cover panel 22 to the wheel 14, the handle is threaded onto a threaded receiver. After the handle is partially threaded onto the threaded receiver, the bevel 40 engages with the pin 28, and the button 26 is pressed down, i.e., as the handle continues to rotate, the button 26 moves in the first direction. As the pin 28 passes the socket 38, a spring pushes the button 26 and thus pushes the pin 28 into the socket 38. This prevents any further rotation of the handle and may result in an audible clicking sound, also known as a "click". Preferably, the socket 38 is designed such that the threads 20 and 36 are fully engaged at the point where the pin 28 engages with the corresponding socket 38. To achieve the point where the threads 20 and 36 are fully engaged, the handle should rotate at least one full revolution when it is threaded. To remove the cover panel 22 from the wheel 14, a person can press the operating area 30 and thus the center of the button 26, thereby moving the button 26 along the direction of movement and in the first direction and thus moving the pin 28. As a result, the pin 28 is removed from the socket 38, specifically pushed out of the socket 38. With button 26 pressed, the handle (fastening element 32) can be turned to loosen threads 20 and 36, thus releasing fastening element 32 from the thread receiver. Subsequently, the cover panel 22 and fastening element 32 can move away from fastening element 18 and therefore away from button 26 and wheel 14.

[0048] In order for the button 26 to be pressed or depressed while the cover panel 22 is secured to the wheel 14, at least the operating area 30 of the button 26 passes through the through holes 24 and 34. Therefore, the cover panel 22 can be installed onto and removed from the wheel 14 in a particularly easy manner.

[0049] Figures 8 to 15 This illustrates a second embodiment of the wheel cover device 10. In this second embodiment, the wheel cover device 10 includes a mounting bracket 12 that is mounted to the wheel 14. Figure 14 Specifically, the mounting bracket 12 is mounted to the wheel hub 16. In other words, the mounting bracket 12 is configured to be mounted to the wheel 14, and more particularly to the wheel hub 16 of the wheel 14. The wheel cover assembly 10 includes a fastening element 18 disposed on the mounting bracket 12. Figure 14 As shown, the fastening element 18 has a first thread 20 configured as an external thread. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the fastening element 18 has inclined surfaces 62 spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Additionally, corresponding sockets 64 of the fastening element 18 are assigned to corresponding inclined surfaces 62. In other words, each inclined surface 62 is provided with a socket 64 of the fastening element 18.

[0050] like Figures 8 to 10As shown, the wheel cover device 10 also includes a cover panel 22 having a through hole 24, which is preferably configured as a central through hole in the cover panel 22. According to the second embodiment, the cover panel 22 is configured to cover the wheel 14 in the axial direction of the wheel 14.

[0051] In the second embodiment, the wheel cover device 10 includes, as shown below: Figures 11 to 14 The handle 66 is shown. The handle 66 has a gripping portion 68 via which it can be operated, particularly rotated and translated. This means the handle 66 can be manually operated, particularly manually rotated via the gripping portion 68. The handle 66 also includes a pin portion 70, with each socket 64 having a pin 72. The handle 66 also includes a threaded portion 74 having a second thread 76, which, in a second embodiment, is configured as an internal thread corresponding to the first thread 20. In an embodiment, the second thread 76 may be configured as a multi-start thread to more easily accommodate the first thread 20. This means the threads 20 and 76 can be threaded together. In the second embodiment, the gripping portion 68, the pin portion 70, and the threaded portion 74 are configured as separately manufactured components forming an assembly. The threaded portion 74 can be... Figure 13The direction of movement indicated by arrow 78 is a translational movement relative to the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70. This means that the threaded portion 74 can be translated relative to the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 to the first direction indicated by arrow 80, which is parallel to the direction of movement. Furthermore, particularly after the threaded portion 74 has been translated relative to the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 to the first direction, the threaded portion 74 can be translated relative to the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 to the second direction indicated by arrow 82, which is parallel to the direction of movement. Moreover, the gripping portion 68, the pin portion 70, and the threaded portion 74 are rotatably fixed to each other, such that the threaded portion 74 is rotatably fixed to the pin portion 70 and the gripping portion 68. Therefore, by rotating the gripping portion 68, particularly relative to the cover panel 22 and the fastening element 18, the gripping portion 68, the pin portion 70, and the threaded portion 74 rotate together, particularly relative to the cover panel 22 and relative to the fastening element 18. In the second embodiment, the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 are constructed as separately manufactured components, wherein the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 are interconnected by at least one screw 84, specifically such that the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 can not be translated relative to each other. In other words, the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 are connected to each other to prevent translational movement of the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 relative to each other. Additionally, the handle 66 includes a spring element 86, which can be constructed as a mechanical spring. The spring element 86 can be part of the assembly. In the second embodiment, the threaded portion 74 is supported on the pin portion 70 along the direction of movement, particularly in a first direction. Therefore, by translating the threaded portion 74 relative to the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 in the first direction, the spring element 86 is tensioned, particularly compressed. In other words, by translating the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 relative to the threaded portion 74 in a second direction, the spring element 86 is tensioned, particularly compressed. By tensioning, in particular compressing, the spring element 86 provides spring force. By this spring force (i.e., when the spring element 86 is allowed to relax), the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 can be translated relative to the threaded portion 74 in a first direction.

[0052] like Figure 12 As shown, the pin portion 70 and the threaded portion 74 include an interlocking feature 88, which connects the pin portion 70 and the threaded portion 74 to each other in a rotationally fixed manner. Furthermore, the gripping portion 68 and the threaded portion 74 include a further interlocking feature 90, which connects the gripping portion 68 and the threaded portion 74 to each other in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0053] The fastening element 18 is also called a threaded receiver because, as will be explained in more detail below, the handle 66 is connected to the fastening element 18 via threads 20 and 76 to attach the cover panel 22 to the fastening element 18, and thus to the mounting bracket 12 and the wheel 14. To secure the cover panel 22 to the fastening element 18 and therefore to the mounting bracket 12 and the wheel 14, the handle 66 is inserted into the through hole 24 such that the handle 66, particularly the threaded portion 74 and the pin portion 70, penetrates or passes through the through hole 24. As the handle 66 passes through the through hole 24, the gripping portion 68, and therefore the pin portion 70 and the threaded portion 74, rotate relative to the cover panel 22 and relative to the fastening element 18, such that the threaded portion 74 and the fastening element 18 are tightened together via threads 20 and 76. As the handle 66 rotates relative to the cover panel 22 and relative to the fastening element 18 to tighten the threaded portion 74 and the fastening element 18 together via threads 20 and 76, the pin 72 slides along the ramp 62. Therefore, because the threaded portion 74 is prevented from translating together with the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 by the interaction of threads 20 and 76, the pin portion 70 and the gripping portion 68 translate relative to the threaded portion 74 to the second direction by sliding the pin 72 along the inclined plane 62. As the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 translate relative to the threaded portion 74 to the second direction, the spring element 86 is compressed (i.e., tensioned). The handle 66 rotates relative to the cover panel 22 and relative to the fastening element 18, thus the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 translate relative to the threaded portion 74 away from the fastening element in the direction of movement to the second direction until the pin 72 reaches the corresponding socket 64. This means that by rotating the handle 66 relative to the cover panel 22 and relative to the fastening element 18, the pin 72 slides along the inclined plane 62 and subsequently moves from the inclined plane 62 to the socket 64 (i.e., the pin 72 moves from the inclined plane 62 and overlaps with the socket 64). As the movable pin 72 overlaps with the socket 64, the spring element 86 relaxes, causing the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 to translate relative to the threaded portion 74 in a first direction. This causes the pin 72 to translate along the direction of movement into the socket 64, specifically into the first direction. As a result, at least further rotation of the handle 66 relative to the fastening element 18 is limited or prevented.

[0054] In the second embodiment, the wheel cover device 10 includes two components. The first component is a cover panel 22, and the second component is a handle 66. The handle 66, passing through a through-hole 24, can rotate freely within the cover panel 22. Figure 10 and 13As shown, the cover panel 22 and handle 66 each include corresponding clamping features 92 and 94, which hold the handle 66 and cover panel 22 together and allow the handle 66 to rotate freely while passing through the through hole 24. Furthermore, the cover panel 22 includes an interlocking feature 96 that can interlock with a corresponding interlocking feature 98 of the fastening element 18. Figure 10 As the fastening element 18 is mounted to the mounting bracket 12, the fastening element 18, and therefore the interlocking feature 98, the bevel 62, the socket 64, and the thread 20 are provided on the mounting bracket 12. The cover panel 22 is aligned as it is attached to the wheel 14 by interlocking the interlocking feature 96 with the interlocking feature 98. In other words, as the cover panel 22 is attached to the wheel 14, the interlocking features 96 and 98 provide alignment. With the threaded portion 74 and the fastening element 18 threaded together, the thread 76 can engage with the corresponding thread 20. With the handle 66 threaded onto the fastening element 18 and therefore threaded onto the wheel 14, the interlocking feature 96 interlocks with the corresponding interlocking feature 98 of the fastening element 18, thereby supporting and restricting the rotation of the cover panel 22 relative to the fastening element 18 and therefore relative to the mounting bracket 12.

[0055] The handle 66 itself is the component, including a gripping portion 68, a pin portion 70, and a threaded portion 74, as well as, for example, a spring element 86. The threaded portion 74 is a threaded core, wherein the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 are fastened to the spring element 86 and the threaded core. The threaded core translates freely within the handle 66 (within the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70) in the direction of the spring element 86. For example, an interlocking feature 90 is arranged at the top of the handle 66, while an interlocking feature 88 is arranged at the bottom of the handle 66.

[0056] For example, mounting bracket 12 and fastening element 18 (threaded receiver) form an assembly for mounting to a wheel. Fastening element 18 has threads 20 to receive handle 66. Fastening element 18 also has an interlocking feature 98, which can interlock with a corresponding interlocking feature 96 of cover panel 22. Fastening element 18 also includes a socket 64, also referred to as a pin socket.

[0057] To attach the cover panel 22 to the wheel 14, the handle 66 is threaded onto the fastening element 18. After the handle 66 is partially threaded onto the fastening element 18, the pin 72 of the handle 66 engages the ramp 62 of the fastening element 18, and as the handle 66 continues to rotate, the pin portion 70 of the handle 66 is pushed away from the fastening element 18. Since the threaded core is translatably movable relative to the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 but is interlocked relative to the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70, the threaded core continues to be threaded onto the fastening element 18 while the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 are pushed out (i.e., translated relative to the threaded portion 74 and along the direction of movement away from the fastening element 18, particularly to the second direction). As the pin 72 passes through the corresponding socket 64, the spring element 86 relaxes and pushes the gripping portion 68 and the pin portion 70 relative to the fastening element 18 and relative to the threaded portion 74 in the first direction, so that the pin 72 is pushed into the socket 64. This prevents any further rotation of the handle 66 and could cause an audible click (i.e., a audible clicking sound). The socket 64 is designed such that the threads 20 and 76 are fully engaged at the point where the pin 72 engages the corresponding socket 64. At least one full rotation of the handle 66 is required for the socket 64 to be fully engaged by the pin 72.

Claims

1. A wheel cover device for a vehicle, characterized in that, The wheel cover device includes: Mounting bracket, the mounting bracket being configured to be mounted to the wheel of the vehicle; A first fastening element is disposed on the mounting bracket and has a first thread. A cover panel for covering the wheel in the axial direction of the wheel, the cover panel having through holes; A button, movably held on the mounting bracket and the first fastening element, the button including at least one pin; A spring, the spring being supported on the mounting bracket and the button; and The second fastening element has a second thread, at least one socket, and at least one bevel. In order to secure the cover panel to the first fastening element, the second fastening element is configured to be inserted into the through hole and subsequently rotated relative to the cover panel, the first fastening element, and the button to tighten the first fastening element and the second fastening element together via the first thread and the second thread, thereby causing the pin to slide along the ramp and into the socket, causing the spring to be tensioned, thereby tensioning the pin into the socket by the spring.

2. The wheel cover device according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, Relative to the axial direction of the wheel, the ramp begins at a first height level and ends at a second height level higher than the first height level, wherein the socket is restricted by a wall region of the second fastening element in the axial direction of the wheel, the wall region being arranged at the first height level or at a third height level lower than the second height level and higher than the first height level relative to the axial direction of the wheel.

3. The wheel cover device according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, At least one of the cover panel and the second fastening element includes at least one connecting element configured to hold the second fastening element in the through hole and on the cover panel in the axial direction of the wheel, while allowing the second fastening element to rotate relative to the cover panel.

4. The wheel cover device according to claim 1, characterized in that, in: The cover panel includes at least one first locking element; and The first fastening element includes at least one second locking element, wherein the first locking element and the second locking element are configured to interact with each other to restrict the rotation of the cover panel relative to the first fastening element.

5. The wheel cover device according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The second fastening element includes a second through hole, and The button is configured to be inserted into the through-hole and the second through-hole of the cover panel when the first fastening element and the second fastening element are tightened together by the first thread and the second thread.

6. A wheel cover device for a vehicle, characterized in that, The wheel cover device includes: Mounting bracket, the mounting bracket being configured to be mounted to the wheel of the vehicle; A fastening element disposed on the mounting bracket, the fastening element having a first thread, at least one bevel, and at least one socket; A cover panel for covering the wheel in the axial direction of the wheel, the cover panel having a through hole; and A handle, the handle having: A gripping portion for manually rotating the handle; The pin portion includes at least one pin; The threaded portion includes a second thread and is capable of translational movement relative to the gripping portion and the pin portion in a direction of movement. The threaded portion is connected to the pin portion and the gripping portion by rotational fixation. At least one spring element, the threaded portion being supported on the pin portion along the direction of movement via the at least one spring element, and in order to secure the cover panel to the fastening element, the handle is configured to be inserted into the through hole and subsequently rotated relative to the cover panel and the fastening element via the gripping portion to tighten the fastening element and the threaded portion together via the first thread and the second thread, thereby causing the pin to slide along the ramp, such that while the spring is tensioned, the gripping portion and the pin portion translate relative to the threaded portion away from the fastening element along the direction of movement until the pin reaches the socket, whereby the spring element is at least partially relaxed, thereby moving the pin into the socket while translating the gripping portion and the pin portion relative to the threaded portion along the direction of movement.

7. The wheel cover device according to claim 6, characterized in that, in, The gripping portion and the pin portion are formed from separately manufactured components that are interconnected.

8. The wheel cover device according to claim 6, characterized in that, in, The ramp begins at a first height level and ends at a second height level higher than the first height level relative to the axial direction of the wheel, wherein the socket is limited in the axial direction of the wheel by a wall region of the fastening element, the wall region being arranged at the first height level relative to the axial direction of the wheel, or at a third height level lower than the second height level and higher than the first height level.

9. The wheel cover device according to claim 6, characterized in that, in, The inclined surface and the first thread form a component.

10. The wheel cover device according to claim 6, characterized in that, in: The cover panel includes at least one first locking element; and The fastening element includes at least one second locking element, and the first locking element and the second locking element are configured to interact with each other to restrict the rotation of the cover panel relative to the fastening element.

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