Lug nut with open frame design

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a lug nut with an open frame design. A lug nut of a wheel assembly of a vehicle may include a base portion including a receiving aperture disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of a hub of the wheel assembly; and a fixed lug wrench interface, wherein the fixed lug wrench interface is arranged at a second end opposite to the base part. The fixed lug wrench interface may include: a central portion centered along a vertical axis of the lug nut; and a plurality of posts, the plurality of posts surrounding the central portion. First outer edges of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end may define at least vertices of a first hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts may be spaced apart from the central portion at the second end. The first outer edges of the plurality of posts may be separated by a gap between each individual post of the plurality of posts.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The example embodiments generally relate to wheel assembly components, and more specifically, to lug nuts for improving wheel safety. Background Technology

[0002] Wheel assemblies are often targeted for theft among vehicle components. Therefore, anti-theft mechanisms and safety lug nuts that improve vehicle performance are desirable.

[0003] Typically, lug nuts can be easily removed using common socket wrenches and lug nut removal devices. Therefore, lug nut designs that integrate a structure that limits removal using readily available and commercially available products will improve wheel safety. Furthermore, aerodynamically improved lug nut designs will enhance vehicle performance and meet consumer expectations. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A lug nut for a vehicle wheel assembly can be provided. The lug nut may include: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel assembly hub; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite the base portion. The fixing lug wrench interface may include: a central portion centered along the vertical axis of the lug nut; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion. A first outer edge of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end may define at least the vertices of a first hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts may be operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and may be spaced apart from the central portion at the second end. The first outer edges of the plurality of posts may be separated by gaps between each individual post of the plurality of posts.

[0005] In an example embodiment, a set of lug nuts for a vehicle wheel assembly may be provided. The set of lug nuts may include a first set of lug nuts and a safety lug nut. Each of the first set of lug nuts and the safety lug nut may further include: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel assembly hub; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite the base portion. The fixing lug wrench interface may include: a central portion centered along the vertical axis of each of the lug nuts; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion. A first outer edge of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end may define at least the vertices of a first hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts may be operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and may be spaced apart from the central portion at the second end. The first outer edge of the plurality of posts of the safety lug nut can be separated by a gap between each individual post of the plurality of posts.

[0006] In another example embodiment, a lug nut for a vehicle wheel assembly can be provided. The lug nut may include: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel assembly hub; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite the base portion. The fixing lug wrench interface may include: a central portion centered along the vertical axis of the lug nut; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion. A first outer edge of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end may define at least the vertices of a first hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts may be operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and may be spaced apart from the central portion at the second end. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Having thus generally described the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in the drawings: Figure 1 A block diagram depicts a wheel assembly of a vehicle according to an example embodiment; Figure 2 A perspective view of the lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 3 A top view of the lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is depicted; Figure 4A bottom view of the lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 5 A side view of the lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is depicted; Figure 6 A perspective view of a safety lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 7 A top view of a safety lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is depicted; Figure 8 A side view of the safety lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 9 A perspective view depicting the key attachment of the safety lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 10 A top view of the key attachment of the safety lug nut of the wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 11 A bottom view depicts the key attachment of the safety lug nut of the wheel assembly according to an example embodiment; Figure 12 A side view of the key attachment of the safety lug nut of the wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 13 A perspective view depicting the key attachment and safety lug nut of a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 14 A top view of the key attachment and safety lug nut of the wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 15 A side view of the key attachment and safety lug nut of the wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is depicted; and Figure 16 A block diagram depicts a manufacturing system for a lug nut according to an example embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0008] Some exemplary embodiments will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, example embodiments. In fact, the examples described and depicted herein should not be construed as limiting the scope, applicability, or configuration of this disclosure. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable requirements. The same reference numerals always refer to the same elements. Furthermore, as used herein, the term “or” will be interpreted as a logical operator that produces a true result whenever one or more of its operands are true. As used herein, an operable connection should be understood to involve direct or indirect connections, in either case of which the connection enables functional interconnection of components operably linked to each other.

[0009] Furthermore, as used herein, terms such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” when referring to the variability of a parameter should be understood as definite approximations that take into account variations in measurements that cannot be precisely measured or, as is known to those skilled in the art, are not typically measured precisely. Therefore, for example, a parameter with a given value or characteristic that is “about,” “approximately,” or “substantially” should be understood as sufficiently close to the given value or characteristic such that, from the perspective of a person of ordinary skill in the art, the performance of the object or product to which the parameter is applied is the same as that of the object or product having the exact given value or characteristic.

[0010] Some of the exemplary embodiments described herein can address the aforementioned problems. In this regard, for example, some embodiments can provide a lug nut design with additional safety features and improved performance. Some embodiments can provide a lug nut to be formed via additive manufacturing. Therefore, the integration of safety features may require less effort, less invasive construction, less time, and is therefore potentially more efficient.

[0011] Figure 1 A block diagram of a wheel assembly of a vehicle according to an example embodiment is shown. Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, vehicle 110 may include a chassis or frame 120. The chassis or frame 120 may support vehicle 110 and may form the basic structure of the vehicle. In example embodiments, the chassis and frame 120 may be formed from one or more cast or welded metal subframes, or may be a one-piece construction.

[0012] In some cases, the frame 120 may be operatively coupled to the suspension assembly 130, and the suspension assembly 130 may be operatively coupled to the wheel assembly 160. The suspension assembly 130 may include suspension dampers or other suspension elements. Depending on the vehicle 110, the suspension assembly 130 may include multiple suspension dampers. The suspension dampers can be used to absorb compressive and rebound loads along the longitudinal axis of the suspension damper. In this respect, the suspension dampers can significantly limit the oscillations and vibrations of the vehicle 110 by suppressing the articulated movement of the wheel assembly 160 so that the articulation of the wheel assembly 160 is not directly transmitted to the frame 120 of the vehicle 110. In some cases, the vehicle 110 may include multiple instances of the suspension assembly 130 and the wheel assembly 160.

[0013] The suspension assembly 130 can be operatively coupled to the wheel assembly 160 via a steering knuckle 140 of the vehicle 110. The steering knuckle 140 can also be operatively coupled to a wheel hub 150. The wheel hub 150 can be directly operatively coupled to the wheel assembly 160 to connect the wheel assembly 160 to the suspension assembly 130. The wheel hub 150 may include fasteners for operatively coupling to a rim 180 of the wheel assembly 160.

[0014] In some cases, fasteners may include lugs 190, and hubs 150 may include multiple instances of lugs 190, depending on vehicle 110 or wheel assembly 160. Fasteners may also include lug nuts 200. Lug nuts 200 may be operatively engaged with lugs 190 of hub 150 to operatively engage rim 180 to hub 150, and thus operatively engage wheel assembly 160 and vehicle 110. In an example embodiment, vehicle 110 may include multiple instances of lug nuts 200, and several instances of lug nuts 200 may correspond to several instances of lugs 190. Lug nuts 200 may be operatively engaged with lugs 190 via a threaded connection (i.e., corresponding threads of lug nuts 200 and lugs 190 engage / interface together). The operative engagement of lugs 190 and lug nuts 200 may be performed via a socket wrench or other tightening device. For example, the lug nut 200 may include a hexagonal interface that can engage with a socket wrench or other tightening device.

[0015] Figures 2 to 5 A view of a lug nut for a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown. In some cases, the lug nut 200 may include a base portion 210 and a fixed lug wrench interface 220. The base portion 210 may be located at a first end 201 of the lug nut 200, and the fixed lug wrench interface 220 may be located at a second end 202 of the lug nut 200. The base portion 210 and the fixed lug wrench interface 220 may facilitate the operable engagement of the lug nut 200 and the lug 190. For example, the base portion 210 may include threads 212 within a receiving orifice 211 for operable engagement and direct contact with the lug 190. The fixed lug wrench interface 220 allows a socket wrench or other tightening device to interface with the lug nut 200 to facilitate the operable engagement (tightening or loosening) of the lug nut 200 and the lug 190.

[0016] The fixed lug wrench interface 220 may include a central portion 230 and a plurality of posts 240. In an example embodiment, the plurality of posts 240 may surround and / or be disposed around the central portion 230. In some cases, the plurality of posts 240 may be evenly spaced around the central portion 230. The plurality of posts 240 may extend substantially perpendicular to the plane containing the opening of the receiving orifice 211, or may extend substantially perpendicularly from a portion of the base portion 210 to which the plurality of posts 240 are operably coupled. The central portion 230 itself may be centered along the vertical axis 231 of the lug nut 200. Therefore, the plurality of posts 240 may be centered around the vertical axis 231. The vertical axis 231 may be the central longitudinal axis of the lug nut 200.

[0017] In some cases, multiple posts 240 may include or define the outer edge 241 of the lug nut. The outer edge 241 of the lug nut may be located at a second end 202 of the lug nut 200. The outer edge 241 of the lug nut may at least define the vertices 242 of a common hexagonal pattern 243. The common hexagonal pattern 243 may have a common diameter 244 of a common or standard hexagonal size. The common diameter 244 may correspond to a common hexagonal size, which is a typical imperial or metric sleeve size of a typical lug nut. A typical imperial sleeve size may correspond to a common fractional measurement in inches. For example, these typical imperial lug nut sizes may include, but are not limited to, 11 / 16 inch, 3 / 4 inch, 13 / 16 inch, 7 / 8 inch, and other fractional variations of half an inch, quarter an inch, eighth an inch, sixteenth an inch, thirty-two inches, and sixty-four inches. In some cases, a typical metric sleeve size may correspond to a common rounded or whole millimeter measurement. For example, these typical metric lug nut sizes may include, but are not limited to, 17 mm, 19 mm, 21 mm, 22 mm, 23 mm and other rounded or integer millimeter variations.

[0018] The outer edges 241 of the lug nuts of the plurality of posts 240 can define more than the vertices 242 of the common hexagonal pattern 243, and can continue to define the remainder of the common hexagonal pattern 243 in a continuous manner. In this respect, the plurality of posts 240 and their outer edges 241 of the lug nuts can be fully connected to define the complete common hexagonal pattern 243. In response to torque transmission from a lug nut removal tool (e.g., a socket wrench) during the tightening or loosening process of the lug nut 200, the connection of the plurality of posts 240 can improve torque limits and the performance of the lug nut 200. In this respect, the vertices 242 of the posts 240 can be reinforced by buttresses 270 extending between the posts 240 and the central portion 230 and by portions of the outer edges 241 of the lug nuts that interconnect adjacent posts 240.

[0019] The multiple posts 240 can be further separated from the central portion 230. This separation of the multiple posts 240 from the central portion 230 improves the aerodynamic performance of the lug nut 200, and thus improves the aerodynamic performance of the wheel assembly 160 and the vehicle 110 itself. The structure of the lug nut 200 due to the multiple posts 240 and its relationship to the central portion 230 allows airflow to pass through / travel through various parts of the lug nut 200, improving the aerodynamic performance of both the lug nut 200 and the vehicle 110. This increased aerodynamics can lead to improved vehicle performance. Furthermore, the overall structure of the multiple posts 240 and the lug nut 200 can reduce the weight of the lug nut 200. This weight reduction also improves vehicle performance. In the example embodiment, in addition to the space present from the outer edge 241 of the lug nut of the multiple posts 240 to the central portion 230, the multiple posts 240 can create a space between the top portion of the multiple posts 240 and the central portion 230 to maximize aerodynamic performance.

[0020] In some cases, if multiple lug nuts are available to assist in operably connecting the wheel assembly 160 to the vehicle 110, the vehicle 110 may include a variety of different types and forms of lug nuts. Figures 6 to 8 A view of a safety lug nut for a wheel assembly according to an example embodiment is shown. For example, wheel assembly 160 may include a collection of lug nuts. The collection of lug nuts may include multiple instances of lug nuts 200 and instances of safety lug nuts 600 (e.g., Figures 6 to 8 (The alternative lug nut design shown). The safety lug nut 600 may share a generally similar structure with the lug nut 200, including a base portion 610 and a fixed lug wrench interface 620. The fixed lug wrench interface 620 of the safety lug nut 600 may also include a central portion 630 and a plurality of posts 640. The base portion 610 of the safety lug nut 600 may closely or even directly map the base portion 210 of the lug nut 200, including a receiving orifice 211 and threads 212. The fixed lug wrench interface 620 of the safety lug nut 600 may also generally map the fixed lug wrench interface 220 of the lug nut 200.

[0021] In some cases, the multiple posts 640 may include a safety lug nut outer edge 641. The safety lug nut outer edge 641 may be located at a second end 602 of the safety lug nut 600. The safety lug nut outer edge 641 may at least define the vertices 642 of a safety hexagonal pattern 643. The safety hexagonal pattern 643 may differ from the common hexagonal pattern 243. The safety hexagonal pattern 643 may have a safety diameter 644 between common hexagonal sizes. In example embodiments, the safety diameter 644 may correspond to approximately 5% larger than the typical imperial or metric lug nut hexagonal size described above. For example, in example embodiments using common / typical metric hexagonal sizes for lug nuts, the safety hexagonal pattern 643 may have safety diameters 644 of 17.85 mm, 19.95 mm, 22.05 mm, 23.1 mm, and 24.15 mm, respectively, compared to common hexagonal sizes of 17 mm, 19 mm, 21 mm, 22 mm, and 23 mm. Compared to the lug nut 200 defined by the common hexagonal pattern 243, the safety lug nut 600 defined by the safety hexagonal pattern 643 may require different removal methods for the safety lug nut 600 and the lug nut 200, and thus improve the safety of the wheel assembly 160. For example, a common socket wrench with a common hexagonal socket size may be slightly too large or too small to generate sufficient torque on the safety lug nut 600 to loosen it, while a common socket wrench may be able to generate sufficient torque on the lug nut 200 to properly loosen it.

[0022] In some cases, the unusual size of the safety lug nut 600 may not be the only safety feature present. Another safety feature may be present in the structure of the plurality of posts 640 of the safety lug nut 600, and specifically in the structure of the outer edge 641 of the safety lug nut. The outer edge 641 of the safety lug nut of the plurality of posts 640 is separated by a gap 645 between each individual post of the plurality of posts 640 of the safety lug nut 600. The gap 645 of the outer edge 641 of the safety lug nut 600 can contrast with the continuous edge structure of the outer edge 241 of the lug nut 200. Even with the gap 645 included, the outer edge 641 of the safety lug nut can still define a safety hexagonal pattern 643.

[0023] Compared to the lug nut 200, the gap in the outer edge 641 of the safety lug nut of the safety lug nut 600 can reduce the torque limit of the safety lug nut 600. The lack of connection between the plurality of posts 640 of the safety lug nut 600 via the outer edge 641 can reduce the torque limit of the safety lug nut 600 in response to torque transmission from typical lug nut removal tools (e.g., socket wrenches, toothed tools embedded in the lug nut surface) during the tightening or loosening process of the lug nut 200. In response to torque transmission from non-corresponding lug nut removal tools, the plurality of posts 640 of the safety lug nut 600 can be separated and prevent further tampering with the safety lug nut 600 because the plurality of posts 640 can be reinforced only by the buttress 270 extending between the plurality of posts 640 and the central portion 630, rather than by the fully connected outer edge 641 of the safety lug nut.

[0024] Therefore, to facilitate successful torque transmission to the safety lug 600 to allow for tightening and loosening of the safety lug 600, a key accessory 900 can be used. Figures 9 to 12 A separate view of the key attachments was depicted, and Figures 13 to 15 A view is shown of a safety lug nut and a key accessory interfacing with each other. The key accessory 900 may include a first end 901 for engaging with a fixed lug wrench interface 620 of the safety lug nut 600 and a second end 902 for engaging with a typical lug nut removal tool. The first end 901 of the key accessory 900 may include a protrusion 910. In some cases, the number of instances of the protrusion 910 may correspond to the number of gaps 645 present in the safety lug nut 600. The protrusion 910 may engage / interface with the fixed lug wrench interface 620 at the gaps 645. In this respect, the protrusion 910 may fill the gaps 645 between the plurality of posts 640 of the safety lug nut 600 to increase the torque limit of the safety lug nut 600. In some cases, where the protrusion 910 of the key accessory 900 fills the gaps 645, and where a reinforcing buttress 670 is present, the safety lug nut 600 may have a higher torque limit than the lug nut 200.

[0025] In an example embodiment, the key attachment 900 may engage with the surface of the central portion 630 of the safety lug nut 600. The safety lug nut 600 may include an inward groove 650 disposed on the central portion 630. The inward groove 650 may correspond to a gap 645 and may interface with and / or engage with a protrusion 910 of the key attachment 900. In some cases, the depth of the inward groove 650 may be different values. Different values ​​of the depth of the inward groove may result in a specific type of key attachment 900 corresponding only to a specific instance of the safety lug nut 600 being able to allow the safety lug nut 600 to be tightened and loosened. For example, the safety lug nut 600 may be included in a set of lug nuts along with multiple instances of lug nuts 200. In this set of lug nuts, a specific type of key attachment 900 corresponding to a specific type of safety lug nut 600 may be included. For example, the size of the protrusion 910 of a specific type of key attachment 900 corresponds to the correct value of the depth of the inward groove 650 of the specific type of safety lug nut 600. In this respect, the general-purpose key accessory 900 cannot properly engage and / or interface with each type of safety lug nut 600, thus improving the safety of the wheel assembly 160.

[0026] The second end 902 of the key attachment 900 can directly engage with a lug nut removal tool and properly transmit the torque provided by the lug nut removal tool to the safety lug nut 600. The second end 902 of the key attachment 900 may include a key attachment outer edge 941. The key attachment outer edge 941 may define a common hexagonal pattern 943. The key attachment common hexagonal pattern 943 may map to and / or be identical to the common hexagonal pattern 243 of the lug nut 200, and therefore may have a diameter 944 of the common hexagonal size. In this respect, the key attachment 900 can transform the safety lug nut 600 from being unremovable by a typical lug nut removal tool to being removable by the same typical lug nut removal tool as the lug nut 200. For example, a technician may only need the key attachment 900 and a common socket wrench to remove a collection of lug nuts, including multiple instances of the safety lug nut 600 and the lug nut 200. However, without the key accessory 900, only the instance of the lug nut 200, and not the safety lug nut 600, can be removed with a common socket wrench.

[0027] The safety lug nut 600 can be described as being in a locked state in response to the lack of a key accessory 900 of the correct type for engagement and / or interfacing with the safety lug nut 600. In some cases, for the safety lug nut to be changed from a locked state to an unlocked state, where torque transmission may occur between the key accessory 900 and the retaining lug wrench interface 620 of the safety lug nut 600, the key accessory 900 may need to properly engage / interface with the inward recess 650 and the gap 645 of the retaining lug wrench interface 620. In an example embodiment, the key accessory 900 may also need to directly interface with a surface of the central portion 630 other than the inward recess 650 (such as the top surface 660 of the central portion 630 of the safety lug nut 600).

[0028] Figure 16 An additive manufacturing process for a lug nut is described. In some cases, lug nut 200 and safety lug nut 600 can be formed via additive manufacturing process 1600. Additive manufacturing process 1600 can begin by forming a base portion 1601 of lug nut 200 or safety lug nut 600. Base portion 1601 can be formed to include cavity 1602. Base portion 1601 can be formed via milling machine 1610, and the base portion can be a metallic material, such as titanium or another robust metal or alloy. Base portion 1601 can be several different materials having the durability required for the torque forces and environmental forces experienced by the lug nut. In some cases, base portion 1601 can also be printed via a 3D printer or another type of printer having cavity 1602. In an example embodiment, base portion 1601 can be printed via a 3D printer or another type of printer, and cavity 1602 can be milled after initial printing.

[0029] After the base portion 1601 with cavity 1602 is formed, sensor 1603 can be inserted into cavity 1602 via sensor insertion process 1620. Sensor insertion process 1620 can be performed by a machine or a technician, depending on the desired type of sensor 1603 and the overall additive manufacturing process 1600. Sensor 1603 can be a variety of different types of sensors, including but not limited to RFID sensors, GPS sensors, torque sensors, or force sensors. Sensor 1603 can be used to collect and transmit important vehicle data, or for position detection of vehicle 110 or wheel assembly 160. After sensor insertion process 1620, printer 1630 can form the remaining lug nut portion. Printer 1630 can be a 3D printer or another type of printer. The remaining lug nut portion can also be formed from a metallic material (such as alloy, stainless steel, or other metals). The material used for the lug nut portion, as well as the general lug nut structure, can form a lightweight lug nut to improve vehicle performance. Additionally, additive manufacturing processes or other manufacturing processes can remove additional (unnecessary) material from the lug nut portion to further reduce its weight. The additive manufacturing process 1600 can be controlled via additive manufacturing controller 1640, and the additive manufacturing process 1600 can be moved between the machine and the steps using conveyor system 1650.

[0030] Both the lug nut 200 and the safety lug nut 600 can be customized to highlight features of the vehicle 110 or other vehicle components (e.g., wheel assemblies). For example, the top surface 660 of the center portion 630 can have an etched or printed logo or design to highlight the model of the vehicle 110. Additional customization options may include Easter eggs, designs, patterns, logos, or other aesthetic features related to the vehicle 110 to highlight the lug nut.

[0031] Therefore, a lug nut for a vehicle wheel assembly can be provided. The lug nut may include: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel assembly hub; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite the base portion. The fixing lug wrench interface may include: a central portion centered along the vertical axis of the lug nut; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion. A first outer edge of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end may at least define the vertices of a first hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts may be operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and may be spaced apart from the central portion at the second end. The first outer edges of the plurality of posts may be separated by gaps between each individual post of the plurality of posts.

[0032] Lug nuts of vehicle wheel assemblies in some embodiments may include additional features, modifications, extensions, etc., to achieve further objectives or improve the performance of the lug nuts. These additional features, modifications, extensions, etc., can be added in any combination of each other. The following is a list of various additional features, modifications, and extensions, which can be added individually or in any combination of each other. For example, a first hexagonal pattern may have a diameter between common hexagonal sizes. In some cases, a key attachment may engage a fixed lug wrench interface on the surface of the gap and the central portion. In an example embodiment, a second outer edge of the key attachment may define a second hexagonal pattern having a diameter corresponding to a common hexagonal size. In some cases, the central portion may include an inward groove corresponding to the gap of a plurality of posts, and the end of the key attachment may also interface with the inward groove. In an example embodiment, in response to the key attachment interfacing with the inward groove, the gap, and the surface of the central portion, torque transmission may occur between the key attachment and the fixed lug wrench interface when the lug nut transitions between a locked and unlocked state. In some cases, the depth of the inward groove can be different values, and depending on the depth of the inward groove, different types of key attachments may be required. In an example embodiment, the lug nut can be formed via additive manufacturing. In some cases, the base portion can initially be formed with a cavity, and in response to forming the base portion, a sensor can be inserted into the cavity. In an example embodiment, in response to inserting the sensor into the cavity, a retaining lug wrench interface can be formed to close the sensor. In some cases, the sensor can be an RFID sensor or a torque sensor. In an example embodiment, airflow can travel at least between the columns.

[0033] Therefore, a set of lug nuts for a wheel assembly of a vehicle according to an example embodiment can be provided. The set of lug nuts may include a first set of lug nuts and a safety lug nut. Each of the first set of lug nuts and the safety lug nut may further include: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel assembly hub; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite the base portion. The fixing lug wrench interface may include: a central portion centered along the vertical axis of each of the lug nuts; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion. A first outer edge of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end may at least define a vertex of a first hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts may be operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and may be spaced apart from the central portion at the second end. The first outer edge of the plurality of posts of the safety lug nut can be separated by a gap between each individual post of the plurality of posts.

[0034] Therefore, a lug nut for a vehicle wheel assembly can be provided. The lug nut may include: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel assembly hub; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite the base portion. The fixing lug wrench interface may include: a central portion centered along the vertical axis of the lug nut; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion. A first outer edge of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end may at least define a vertex of a first hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts may be operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and may be spaced apart from the central portion at the second end.

[0035] Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will conceive of many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein, benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, while exemplary embodiments have been described in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions in the foregoing description and associated drawings, it should be understood that alternative embodiments may provide different combinations of elements and / or functions without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, combinations of elements and / or functions different from those explicitly described above are also contemplated, for example, as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Where advantages, benefits, or solutions to problems are described herein, it should be understood that such advantages, benefits, and / or solutions may apply to some exemplary embodiments but not necessarily to all exemplary embodiments. Therefore, any advantages, benefits, or solutions described herein should not be considered critical, essential, or necessary for all embodiments or the embodiments claimed herein. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

[0036] According to the present invention, a lug nut for a wheel assembly of a vehicle is provided, comprising: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of a hub of the wheel assembly; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite to the base portion; the fixing lug wrench interface comprising: a central portion centered along a vertical axis of the lug nut; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion, wherein a first outer edge of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end defines at least a vertex of a first hexagonal pattern, wherein the plurality of posts are operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and spaced apart from the central portion at the second end, and wherein the first outer edge of the plurality of posts is separated by a gap between each individual post of the plurality of posts.

[0037] According to an embodiment, the first hexagonal pattern has a diameter between common hexagonal sizes.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the key attachment engages the fixed lug wrench interface on the surface of the gap and the central portion.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the second outer edge of the key attachment defines a second hexagonal pattern having a diameter corresponding to a common hexagonal size.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the central portion includes an inward groove corresponding to the gap of the plurality of posts, and the end of the key attachment further interfaces with the inward groove.

[0041] According to an embodiment, in response to the key attachment interfacing with the surfaces of the inward groove, the gap, and the center portion, torque transmission occurs between the key attachment and the fixed lug wrench interface when the lug nut transitions between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the depth of the inward groove is a different value, and different types of key attachments are required depending on the depth of the inward groove.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the lug nut is formed by additive manufacturing.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the base portion initially forms a cavity, wherein in response to forming the base portion, a sensor is inserted into the cavity, and wherein in response to inserting the sensor into the cavity, a retaining lug wrench interface is formed to close the sensor.

[0045] According to an embodiment, the sensor is an RFID sensor or a torque sensor.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the airflow travels between at least the plurality of columns.

[0047] According to an embodiment, there is a space between the top portions of the plurality of columns and the central portion, and there is a space between the first outer edge of the plurality of columns and the central portion.

[0048] According to the present invention, a set of lug nuts for a wheel assembly of a vehicle is provided, comprising: a first set of lug nuts; and a safety lug nut; each of the first set of lug nuts and the safety lug nut further comprising: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of a hub of the wheel assembly; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite to the base portion; the fixing lug wrench interface comprising: a central portion centered along a vertical axis of each of the lug nuts; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion, wherein the outer edges of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end define at least a vertex of a hexagonal pattern, wherein the plurality of posts are operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and spaced apart from the central portion at the second end, and wherein the outer edges of the first set of lug nuts define at least a vertex of a second hexagonal pattern in the hexagonal pattern.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the first hexagonal pattern has a diameter between common hexagonal sizes.

[0050] According to an embodiment, a key attachment engages the fixed lug wrench interface of the safety lug nut on the surface of the gap and the central portion, and torque transmission occurs between the key attachment and the fixed lug wrench interface of the safety lug nut when the safety lug nut changes between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the outer edge of the key attachment defines a third hexagonal pattern having a diameter corresponding to the size of a common hexagon.

[0052] According to an embodiment, the central portion of the safety lug nut includes an inward groove corresponding to the gap of the plurality of posts, and the end of the key attachment further interfaces with the inward groove.

[0053] According to an embodiment, in response to the key attachment interfacing with the surfaces of the inward groove, the gap, and the center portion, torque transmission occurs between the key attachment and the fixed lug wrench interface when the safety lug nut transitions between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the depth of the inward groove is a different value, and different types of key attachments are required depending on the depth of the inward groove.

[0055] According to the present invention, a lug nut for a wheel assembly of a vehicle is provided, comprising: a base portion including a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of a hub of the wheel assembly; and a fixing lug wrench interface disposed at a second end opposite to the base portion; the fixing lug wrench interface comprising: a central portion centered along a vertical axis of the lug nut; and a plurality of posts surrounding the central portion, wherein a first outer edge of the plurality of posts disposed at the second end defines at least a vertex of a first hexagonal pattern, and wherein the plurality of posts are operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixing lug wrench interface and the base portion, and spaced apart from the central portion at the second end.

Claims

1. A lug nut for a vehicle wheel assembly, the lug nut comprising: The base portion includes a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel hub of the wheel assembly; as well as A fixed lug wrench interface is provided at the second end opposite to the base portion; The fixed lug wrench interface includes: The central portion is centered along the vertical axis of the lug nut; as well as Multiple columns surrounding the central portion The first outer edge of the plurality of pillars located at the second end at least defines the vertices of the first hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts are operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixed lug wrench interface and the base portion, and are spaced apart from the central portion at the second end. The first outer edge of the plurality of columns is separated by a gap between each individual column.

2. The lug nut of claim 1, wherein the first hexagonal pattern has a diameter between common hexagonal sizes, or The key accessory engages the fixed lug wrench interface on the surface of the gap and the central portion.

3. The lug nut of claim 2, wherein the second outer edge of the key attachment defines a second hexagonal pattern having a diameter corresponding to a common hexagonal size.

4. The lug nut of claim 2, wherein the central portion includes an inwardly recessed groove corresponding to the gap of the plurality of posts, and The end of the key attachment also interfaces with the inward groove.

5. The lug nut of claim 4, wherein, in response to the key attachment interfacing with the surfaces of the inward groove, the gap, and the center portion, torque transmission occurs between the key attachment and the fixed lug wrench interface when the lug nut transitions between a locked state and an unlocked state.

6. The lug nut of claim 4, wherein the depth of the inward groove is a different value, and Depending on the depth of the inward groove, different types of key attachments are required.

7. The lug nut of claim 1, wherein the lug nut is formed by additive manufacturing, or The airflow travels between at least the plurality of columns.

8. The lug nut of claim 7, wherein the base portion is initially formed with a cavity. In response to the formation of the base portion, the sensor is inserted into the cavity. In response to inserting the sensor into the cavity, the fixing lug wrench interface is formed to close the sensor, and The sensor mentioned is an RFID sensor or a torque sensor.

9. The lug nut of claim 1, wherein there is a space between the top portions of the plurality of posts and downwards to the center portion, and There exists a space from the first outer edge of the plurality of pillars to the central portion.

10. A collection of lug nuts for a vehicle wheel assembly, the collection of lug nuts comprising: First set of lug nuts; as well as Safety lug nuts; Each of the first set of lug nuts and the safety lug nuts further includes: The base portion includes a receiving aperture disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel hub of the wheel assembly; and A fixed lug wrench interface is provided at a second end opposite to the base portion; the fixed lug wrench interface includes: The central portion, which is centered along the vertical axis of each of the lug nuts in the assembly; and Multiple columns surrounding the central portion The outer edges of the plurality of pillars located at the second end at least define the vertices of the hexagonal pattern. The plurality of posts are operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixed lug wrench interface and the base portion, and are spaced apart from the central portion at the second end. The first outer edge of the plurality of posts of the safety lug nut is separated by a gap between each individual post. The outer edge of the safety lug nut at least defines the vertices of the first hexagonal pattern in the hexagonal pattern, and The outer edge of the first set of lug nuts at least defines the vertices of the second hexagonal pattern in the hexagonal pattern.

11. The collection of lug nuts as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first hexagonal pattern has a diameter between common hexagonal sizes.

12. The assembly of lug nuts as claimed in claim 10, wherein the key attachment engages the fixed lug wrench interface of the safety lug nut on the surface of the gap and the central portion, and torque transmission occurs between the key attachment and the fixed lug wrench interface of the safety lug nut when the safety lug nut is transitioned between a locked state and an unlocked state.

13. The collection of lug nuts as claimed in claim 12, wherein the outer edge of the key attachment defines a third hexagonal pattern, the third hexagonal pattern having a diameter corresponding to the size of a common hexagon, or The central portion of the safety lug nut includes an inward groove corresponding to the gap between the plurality of posts, and the end of the key attachment also interfaces with the inward groove.

14. The assembly of lug nuts as claimed in claim 13, wherein in response to the key attachment interfacing with the surfaces of the inward groove, the gap, and the center portion, torque transmission occurs between the key attachment and the fixed lug wrench interface of the safety lug nut when the safety lug nut transitions between a locked and unlocked state, or The depth of the inward groove is a different value, and depending on the depth of the inward groove, different types of key attachments are required.

15. A lug nut for a wheel assembly of a vehicle, the lug nut comprising: The base portion includes a receiving orifice disposed at a first end of the lug nut and configured to receive a lug of the wheel hub of the wheel assembly; as well as A fixed lug wrench interface is provided at the second end opposite to the base portion; The fixed lug wrench interface includes: The central portion is centered along the vertical axis of the lug nut; as well as Multiple columns surrounding the central portion The first outer edge of the plurality of pillars located at the second end at least defines the vertices of the first hexagonal pattern, and The plurality of posts are operably connected to the central portion and the base portion at the intersection of the fixed lug wrench interface and the base portion, and are spaced apart from the central portion at the second end.

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