Aerodynamic wheel casing and wheel

Abstract

A wheel casing includes: a central portion including a planar surface; a first arcuate portion surrounding the central portion and including a first arcuate surface having a first radius of curvature; and a second arcuate portion surrounding the first arcuate portion and including a second arcuate surface having a second radius of curvature. The second radius of curvature is different from the first radius of curvature. The planar surface, the first arcuate surface, and the second arcuate surface form a continuous and uninterrupted outer surface from a center of the wheel casing to an outermost peripheral edge of the wheel casing.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This disclosure claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 387,402, filed on December 14, 2022. Background Art

[0003] Wheel covers are used on large truck vehicles to reduce possible adverse aerodynamic effects. Aerodynamic wheel covers can be used to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel economy. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a wheel cover particularly includes: a central portion, which includes a planar surface; a first arched portion, which surrounds the central portion and includes a first arched surface having a first radius of curvature; a second arched portion, which surrounds the first arched portion and includes a second arched surface, which has a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature; and wherein the planar surface, the first arched surface and the second arched surface form a continuous and uninterrupted outer surface from the center of the wheel cover to the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover.

[0005] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of the foregoing wheel cover, a ratio of the first radius of curvature to the second radius of curvature is in a range of 1 to 2.

[0006] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel covers, the ratio is 1.5 or less.

[0007] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel covers, the center of the wheel cover defines a reference line, and wherein the planar surface extends perpendicular to the reference line.

[0008] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel covers, the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are measured from a position offset from the reference line.

[0009] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel covers, the central portion includes a first percentage of surface area, the first arched portion includes a second percentage of surface area, and the second arched portion includes a third percentage of surface area, and wherein the first percentage of surface area is greater than the second percentage of surface area, and wherein the first percentage of surface area is greater than the third percentage of surface area.

[0010] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel covers, the third percentage of surface area is greater than the second percentage of surface area.

[0011] A wheel assembly according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, inter alia: a wheel having a rim configured to support a tire; and a wheel cover positioned to cover a lateral outward-facing surface of the wheel, wherein the wheel cover includes: a central portion including a planar surface; a first arcuate portion surrounding the central portion and including a first arcuate surface having a first radius of curvature; a second arcuate portion surrounding the first arcuate portion and including a second arcuate surface having a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature; and wherein the planar surface, the first arcuate surface, and the second arcuate surface form a continuous and uninterrupted outer surface from the center of the wheel cover to the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover.

[0012] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of the foregoing wheel assembly, an outermost peripheral edge of the wheel guard is substantially equal to a diameter of the rim.

[0013] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel assemblies, the continuous and uninterrupted outer surface of the wheel cover completely covers the lateral outward facing surface of the wheel.

[0014] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel assemblies, the central portion and at least the first arcuate portion extend laterally outward from an outer edge of the tire.

[0015] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel assemblies, the rim includes a bracket surrounding a wheel tower area, and wherein the central portion and at least the first arcuate portion extend laterally inwardly from the bracket.

[0016] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel assemblies, the rim comprises a lateral outermost surface of the wheel.

[0017] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel assemblies, the lateral outwardly facing surface of the wheel comprises an outwardly facing curved surface extending outwardly from the rim, and wherein the outwardly facing curved surface has a radius of curvature that matches the second radius of curvature.

[0018] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel assemblies, an outer edge of the second arcuate portion is received proximate an outermost edge of the outwardly facing curved surface such that the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover blends into the outwardly facing curved surface.

[0019] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel assemblies, the outwardly facing curved surface has an arcuate length greater than an arcuate length of the second arcuate portion.

[0020] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing wheel assemblies, an aerodynamic surface jointly established by the continuous and uninterrupted outer surface of the wheel guard and the outwardly facing curved surface of the wheel extends across an entire area within the circumference of the rim of the wheel.

[0021] In another non-limiting embodiment of any one of the aforementioned wheel assemblies, the wheel cover includes one or more of the following: a ratio of the first radius of curvature to the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1 to 2; the center of the wheel cover defines a reference line, and wherein the planar surface extends perpendicular to the reference line, and wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are measured from a position offset from the reference line; the central portion includes a first percentage of the surface area, the first arched portion includes a second percentage of the surface area, and the second arched portion includes a third percentage of the surface area, and wherein the first percentage of the surface area is greater than the second percentage of the surface area, and wherein the first percentage of the surface area is greater than the third percentage of the surface area, and wherein the third percentage of the surface area is greater than the second percentage of the surface area.

[0022] A method according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, inter alia: supporting a tire on a rim of a wheel; forming a wheel cover to include: a central portion, the central portion including a planar surface; a first arched portion, the first arched portion surrounding the central portion and including a first arched surface having a first radius of curvature; a second arched portion, the second arched portion surrounding the first arched portion and including a second arched surface, the second arched surface having a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature; and wherein the planar surface, the first arched surface and the second arched surface form a continuous and uninterrupted outer surface from the center of the wheel cover to the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover; and mounting the wheel cover to the wheel to provide a continuous and uninterrupted aerodynamic surface from the wheel cover to the wheel.

[0023] In another non-limiting embodiment of the aforementioned method, the method includes: forming the rim as the lateral outermost surface of the wheel, and covering the entire area within the circumference of the rim of the wheel with the wheel cover to provide the continuous and uninterrupted aerodynamic surface; or forming the lateral outward-facing surface of the wheel to include an outward-facing curved surface extending outward from the rim, wherein the outward-facing curved surface has a radius of curvature matching the second radius of curvature, and positioning the outer edge of the second arcuate portion to be adjacent to the outermost edge of the outward-facing curved surface, so that the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover blends into the outward-facing curved surface to provide the continuous and uninterrupted aerodynamic surface.

[0024] The various features and advantages of at least one disclosed exemplary embodiment will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description.The drawings that accompany the detailed description can be briefly described as follows. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerodynamic wheel cover designed in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Front view of the wheel arch shown in .

[0027] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 in FIG.

[0028] Figure 4 is similar to Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the wheel cover is shown on the wheel.

[0029] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of another example embodiment in which the outer portion of the wheel establishes an aerodynamic surface.

[0030] Figure 6 is shown with Figure 5 Also shown is a cross-sectional view of the wheel configuration compared to a known wheel configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Aerodynamic wheel covers having features similar to those of the disclosed embodiment can be used to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel economy. The disclosed examples are particularly suitable for large truck vehicles and are therefore described for discussion purposes. The aerodynamic properties of the disclosed example embodiments and other embodiments similar to the example embodiments may be beneficial when used in other types of vehicles.

[0032] Figures 1 to 4 An example of an aerodynamic wheel cover 20 is shown, and Figures 5 to 6 Another example of an aerodynamic wheel cover 120 is shown. The outer surface 22, 122 of the wheel cover 20, 120 is smooth, continuous and uninterrupted. In some embodiments, the only interruption in the outer surface 22, 122 is an opening for tire valve access. The outer surface 22 includes a central portion 24, a first arcuate portion 26 surrounding the central portion 24, and a second arcuate portion 28 surrounding the first arcuate portion 26.

[0033] The center portion 24 of the outer surface 22 is flat or planar. The center portion 24 of the outer surface is oriented perpendicular to a reference line 30 extending through the center of the wheel guard 20, which corresponds to the axis of the corresponding wheel when the wheel guard 20 is located on the wheel. The first arcuate portion 26 is curved and has a first radius of curvature indicated at 32. The second arcuate portion 28 has a second, different radius of curvature indicated at 34. The radius of curvature is measured based on a position offset from the reference line 30 and the center portion 24 of the outer surface 22.

[0034] The ratio of the first radius of curvature to the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1 to 2. In some embodiments, the ratio is about 1.5. In the example embodiment shown, the first radius of curvature is 7.5 inches, the second radius of curvature is 5.3 inches, and the ratio of the first radius of curvature to the second radius of curvature is about 1.4.

[0035] The dimensions of the example embodiment include an outer diameter of approximately 23 inches. In this example embodiment, the center portion 24 has a diameter of approximately 12 inches and occupies approximately 45% of the surface area of ​​the outer surface 22. The center portion diameter may be within a range that allows the center portion 24 to overlap a majority of the area occupied by the wheel dog tower of the wheel to which the cover 20 will be mounted. For example, the center portion 24 may have a diameter within a range of 11 to 16 inches. The diameter of the center portion 24 is at least large enough to extend over the wheel dog tower without extending radially outward so far that the inclination of the arcuate portions 26 and 28 becomes so steep that the aerodynamic performance of the cover 20 is compromised.

[0036] The first arcuate portion 26 occupies approximately 20% of the surface area of ​​the outer surface 22. The second arcuate portion 28 occupies approximately 35% of the surface area of ​​the outer surface 22.

[0037] Figure 4 The wheel guard 20 is shown positioned on the wheel 40. The outer diameter of the wheel guard 20 (e.g., 23 inches) is approximately equal to the diameter of the rim 42 of the wheel. Thus, the outer surface 22 of the wheel guard 20 establishes the entire laterally outwardly facing surface within the space occupied by the wheel 40.

[0038] The contour of the outer surface 22 provides aerodynamic advantages compared to previous wheel covers. The configuration of the outer surface 22 creates airflow near the tire 44, thereby reducing drag or wind resistance. The favorable airflow dynamics help reduce fuel consumption.

[0039] The center portion 24 and at least the first arcuate portion 26 are located beyond the lateral outer edges of the tire 44 supported on the wheel 40. The lateral position of the center portion 24 is sufficiently far enough relative to the wheel 40 to fit over a wheel dog tower (not shown). In the example embodiment, the overall width W (e.g., Figure 3The length of the bracket 46 surrounding the area occupied by the wheel dog tower is about 1.5 inches.

[0040] Figure 5 Another example embodiment of a wheel cover 120 is shown. In this example, the wheel cover 120 is included as a single piece; however, the wheel cover 120 may also be composed of multiple pieces. Figure 5 , in this example, the wheel cover 120 is located on the wheel 50 having an outwardly facing curved surface 52 having the same radius of curvature as the second arcuate portion 128, which is the same second radius of curvature as the second arcuate portion 28 of the wheel cover 20 described above. In this embodiment, the outer edge of the second arcuate portion 128 is received adjacent to the outwardly facing curved surface 52, so that the curved surface 52 establishes a portion of the aerodynamic surface that reduces wind resistance or drag. In other words, the second arcuate portion 128 and the curved portion 52 of the wheel cover 120 are equivalent to the second arcuate portion of the wheel cover 20 described above.

[0041] In this example embodiment, the curved surface 52 has an arcuate length that is greater than the arcuate length of the second arcuate portion 128 on the cover 120. The curved surface 52 extends from the rim 54 of the wheel 50 to an interface with the outer edge of the cover 120. The arcuate length of the curved surface is sufficient to occupy at least the space between the rim 54 and a plane containing the front mounting surface 56 of the wheel 50. In the example embodiment shown, the curved surface 52 extends further radially inward beyond the minimum required arcuate length.

[0042] The aerodynamic surface jointly established by the outer surface 122 of the wheel guard 120 and the curved surface 52 of the wheel 50 extends across the entire area within the circumference of the rim 54 of the wheel 50 .

[0043] Figure 6 A dashed line is included at 60 showing a section of a known wheel configuration. Comparing wheel 50 to this known wheel, it can be seen that curved surface 52 extends laterally further outward than the corresponding section shown in dashed line at 60. The aerodynamic features of wheel cover 120 and wheel 50 significantly reduce drag. Furthermore, the design of wheel 50 allows for aerodynamic benefits of fuel savings that are not compromised by increased wheel mass.

[0044] The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. Variations and modifications to the disclosed examples may become apparent to those skilled in the art that do not necessarily depart from the essence of the invention. The scope of legal protection afforded this invention can only be determined by studying the following claims.

Claims

1. A wheel cover, which comprises: a central portion, the central portion including a planar surface; a first arcuate portion, the first arcuate portion surrounding the central portion and including a first arcuate surface having a first radius of curvature; a second arcuate portion, the second arcuate portion surrounding the first arcuate portion and including a second arcuate surface having a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature; and wherein the planar surface, the first arcuate surface, and the second arcuate surface form a continuous and unbroken outer surface from the center of the wheel cover to the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover.

2. The wheel cover according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the first radius of curvature to the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1 to 2.

3. The wheel cover according to claim 2, wherein the ratio is 1.5 or less.

4. The wheel cover according to claim 1, wherein the center of the wheel cover defines a reference line, and wherein the planar surface extends perpendicular to the reference line.

5. The wheel cover according to claim 4, wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are measured from a position offset from the reference line.

6. The wheel cover according to claim 1, wherein the central portion includes a first percentage of the surface area, the first arcuate portion includes a second percentage of the surface area, and the second arcuate portion includes a third percentage of the surface area, and wherein the first percentage of the surface area is greater than the second percentage of the surface area, and wherein the first percentage of the surface area is greater than the third percentage of the surface area.

7. The wheel cover according to claim 6, wherein the third percentage of the surface area is greater than the second percentage of the surface area.

8. A wheel assembly, which comprises: a wheel having a rim configured to support a tire; and a wheel cover positioned to cover the laterally outward-facing surface of the wheel, wherein the wheel cover includes: a central portion, the central portion including a planar surface; a first arcuate portion, the first arcuate portion surrounding the central portion and including a first arcuate surface having a first radius of curvature; a second arcuate portion, the second arcuate portion surrounding the first arcuate portion and including a second arcuate surface having a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature; and wherein the planar surface, the first arcuate surface, and the second arcuate surface form a continuous and unbroken outer surface from the center of the wheel cover to the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover.

9. The wheel assembly according to claim 8, wherein the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover is substantially equal to the diameter of the rim.

10. The wheel assembly according to claim 8, wherein the continuous and unbroken outer surface of the wheel cover completely covers the laterally outward-facing surface of the wheel.

11. The wheel assembly according to claim 8, wherein the central portion and at least the first arcuate portion extend laterally outward from the outer edge of the tire.

12. The wheel assembly according to claim 8, wherein the rim includes a bracket surrounding the pawl tower region, and wherein the central portion and at least the first arcuate portion extend laterally inwardly from the bracket.

13. The wheel assembly according to claim 8, wherein the rim includes the outermost lateral surface of the wheel.

14. The wheel assembly according to claim 8, wherein the laterally outward-facing surface of the wheel includes an outward-facing curved surface extending outwardly from the rim, and wherein the outward-facing curved surface has a radius of curvature matching the second radius of curvature.

15. The wheel assembly according to claim 14, wherein the outer edge of the second arcuate portion is received adjacent the outermost edge of the outward-facing curved surface such that the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover blends into the outward-facing curved surface.

16. The wheel assembly according to claim 14, wherein the outward-facing curved surface has an arcuate length greater than the arcuate length of the second arcuate portion.

17. The wheel assembly according to claim 14, wherein the aerodynamic surface jointly established by the continuous and unbroken outer surface of the wheel cover and the outward-facing curved surface of the wheel extends across the entire region within the circumference of the rim of the wheel.

18. The wheel assembly according to claim 8, wherein the wheel cover includes one or more of the following: The ratio of the first radius of curvature to the second radius of curvature is in the range of 1 to 2; The center of the wheel cover defines a reference line, and wherein the planar surface extends perpendicular to the reference line, and wherein the first radius of curvature and the second radius of curvature are measured from a position offset from the reference line; The central portion includes a first percentage of the surface area, the first arcuate portion includes a second percentage of the surface area, and the second arcuate portion includes a third percentage of the surface area, and wherein the first percentage of the surface area is greater than the second percentage of the surface area, and wherein the first percentage of the surface area is greater than the third percentage of the surface area, and wherein the third percentage of the surface area is greater than the second percentage of the surface area.

19. A method, which comprises: Supporting a tire on the rim of a wheel; Forming a wheel cover to include: A central portion including a planar surface; A first arcuate portion surrounding the central portion and including a first arcuate surface having a first radius of curvature; A second arcuate portion surrounding the first arcuate portion and including a second arcuate surface having a second radius of curvature different from the first radius of curvature; and wherein the planar surface, the first arcuate surface, and the second arcuate surface form a continuous and unbroken outer surface from the center of the wheel cover to the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover; and Mounting the wheel cover to the wheel to provide a continuous and unbroken aerodynamic surface from the wheel cover to the wheel.

20. The method according to claim 19, which comprises: Form the edge as the outermost lateral surface of the wheel, and cover the entire area within the circumference of the edge of the wheel with the wheel cover to provide the continuous and uninterrupted aerodynamic surface; or Form the laterally outward-facing surface of the wheel to include an outward-facing curved surface extending outward from the edge, wherein the outward-facing curved surface has a radius of curvature matching the second radius of curvature, and position the outer edge of the second arcuate portion adjacent to the outermost edge of the outward-facing curved surface such that the outermost peripheral edge of the wheel cover blends into the outward-facing curved surface to provide the continuous and uninterrupted aerodynamic surface.

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