Device for improving off-road capability of wheeled vehicle

Abstract

The utility model provides a device for improving the off-road ability of a wheeled vehicle, which comprises a pedaling device extending along the radial direction of a wheel, the pedaling device can rotate along with a tire, the pedaling device always faces the ground, and the pedaling device is contacted with the ground when in a low position in the rotating process. A dynamic supporting point is formed in a wheel rotating period, and counter-acting force is generated, so that the wheel is helped to be lifted. The device depends on natural rotation of the wheels to trigger the pedaling action, so that the wheels are helped to lift or cross obstacles to overcome road sections where the vehicle is stopped due to slipping and obstacle trapping of the driving wheels, the design can enhance the cross-country ability of a traditional wheeled vehicle, and the device is particularly suitable for uneven terrains, slipping positions or scenes needing to climb, and has wide application prospects. And the cross-country ability of the wheeled vehicle on viscous, loose, damaged, unpaved and other road surfaces which are difficult to pass through is improved. The device is simple to use and easy to install, does not need other special tools, and can be easily operated by people without technical or professional knowledge.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of wheeled vehicle technology, and in particular to a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles, applicable to off-road vehicles, rescue robots, lunar rovers and other mobile platforms that need to adapt to complex terrain. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional wheeled vehicles are prone to getting stuck or being unable to cross obstacles in unstructured terrain (such as gravel, steps, and mud), and there are problems such as slipping and obstacles. At least one problem needs to be overcome, or both.

[0003] In existing technologies, tracks, leg-type mechanisms, or variable diameter wheels can improve obstacle crossing ability, but they also have problems such as complex structure, high energy consumption, and limited speed.

[0004] Numerous inventions exist to eliminate vehicle skidding, such as snow chains mounted on wheels, and other known devices including studs or anti-skid sleeves (called anti-skid bumps). These devices are made of various materials, including iron and rubber. All of these devices and their methods of use share a common drawback: they cannot be installed when the vehicle is parked on a slope, on a wet and uneven road, in a pothole, or in rainy weather—precisely the scenarios where anti-skid devices are most needed. Installing these devices requires using a jack to lift the vehicle above the road surface, which is often difficult to achieve on uneven surfaces such as ditches and slopes.

[0005] Against this background, the present invention proposes a new technical solution. Utility Model Content

[0006] This utility model aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this utility model proposes a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles. Through a biomimetic push-off action, a dynamic support point is formed within the wheel's rotation cycle, achieving efficient obstacle crossing with a simple mechanical structure. The technical solution adopted is as follows:

[0007] A device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles includes a ground-stepping device extending radially along the wheel. The ground-stepping device rotates with the tire and is always facing the ground. When the ground-stepping device is in a low position during rotation, it contacts the ground, forming a dynamic support point and generating a reaction force during the wheel's rotation cycle, thereby helping to lift the wheel.

[0008] The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a radial link, the proximal end of which is fixedly connected to a wheel, and the distal end of which is fixedly connected to a ground-stepping device.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles includes a foothold support plate.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles has a gripping and anti-slip structure at the bottom of the foot support plate.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles has an elastic buffer structure at the bottom of the foot support plate.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles has a radial connecting rod whose proximal end is fixed to the vehicle wheel hub.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles has a connecting hole at the proximal end of the radial connecting rod, and the connecting hole is fixed to the vehicle wheel hub by fasteners.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles is provided between the radial link and the ground-stepping device. One end of the inclined reinforcing member is connected to the proximal end of the radial link, and the other end is connected to the edge of the ground-stepping device. The inclined reinforcing member, the radial link, and the ground-stepping device form a triangular support structure.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles, the length of the radial link is telescopic to adjust its radial connection length.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles, wherein the inclined reinforcement, radial link and ground-stepping device are metal, wood or polymer structures.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0018] This device relies on the natural rotation of the wheels to trigger a push-off action. As the wheels rotate, they contact the ground and generate a reaction force, helping to lift the wheels or overcome obstacles. This overcomes road sections where the vehicle stops due to drive wheel slippage or getting stuck. This design enhances the off-road capabilities of traditional wheeled vehicles, especially suitable for uneven terrain, slippery areas, or scenarios requiring climbing. It improves the off-road performance of wheeled vehicles on sticky, loose, damaged, unpaved, and other difficult-to-traverse surfaces. The device is simple to use and easy to install, requiring no special tools; even those without technical or professional knowledge can operate it easily. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a tire in the prior art;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the device in some embodiments of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the device mounted on a tire in some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the device mounted on a tire in some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the device mounted on a tire in some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 3 .

[0025] Explanation of key component symbols:

[0026] 10. Wheel; 11. Wheel hub; 20. Foot pedal; 30. Radial link; 31. Fastener; 40. Inclined reinforcement. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout.

[0028] The orientation shown in the accompanying drawings should not be construed as limiting the specific protection scope of this utility model, but is only for reference and understanding of preferred embodiments. The product components shown in the drawings can be changed in position, increased in number, or simplified in structure.

[0029] The “connection” described in the specification and the “connection” relationship between the components shown in the accompanying drawings can be understood as a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or a connection that forms an integral unit; it can be a direct connection or a connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the connection relationship according to the specific circumstances and can derive different implementation methods such as screwing, riveting, welding, snap-fitting, or embedding to suitably replace the connection.

[0030] The directional terms such as up, down, left, right, top, and bottom mentioned in the instruction manual and the directions shown in the attached drawings indicate that the components can directly contact each other or contact each other through other features; for example, "up" can mean directly above or diagonally above, or it simply means above other objects; other directions can be understood by analogy.

[0031] The materials used to manufacture solid-shaped parts as shown in the specification and drawings may be metallic, non-metallic, or other synthetic materials. The machining processes used for solid-shaped parts may include stamping, forging, wire cutting, laser cutting, casting, injection molding, CNC milling, 3D printing, machining, etc. Those skilled in the art may adapt or combine the above materials and manufacturing processes according to different processing conditions, costs, and precision requirements.

[0032] This utility model provides a device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles, such as... Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5, the wheel 10 includes a foot-feeding device 20 extending radially along the wheel 10. The foot-feeding device 20 can rotate with the tire and always faces the ground. When the foot-feeding device 20 is in a low position during rotation, it contacts the ground and forms a dynamic support point and generates a reaction force during the rotation cycle of the wheel 10, thereby helping the wheel 10 to lift.

[0033] During installation, the device must be fixed to at least one wheel 10 of the vehicle (either the front or rear wheel depending on the specific situation of getting stuck). When the vehicle is traveling on a flat road, the device rotates freely with the wheel 10. When encountering a difficult road surface, the device contacts the ground at a low position and generates an upward thrust by using friction or rigid support. When the ground-pushing device 20 contacts the ground, it is equivalent to temporarily increasing the effective radius of the wheel 10, raising the vehicle's center of gravity, making it easier to overcome obstacles or slippery areas (such as steps, stones, water, oil stains, or soft ground (mud, swamp, sand)). This device relies on the natural rotation of wheel 10 to trigger a push-off action. During wheel 10 rotation, it contacts the ground and generates a reaction force, thus helping wheel 10 to lift or overcome obstacles. This design enhances the off-road capabilities of traditional wheeled vehicles, especially suitable for uneven terrain, slippery areas, or scenarios requiring climbing. It aims to provide a short-term equipment for automobiles to overcome road sections where vehicles stall due to drive wheel slippage or getting stuck. This technical solution can improve the off-road capabilities of wheeled vehicles on sticky, loose, damaged, unpaved, and other difficult-to-pass surfaces. It is also suitable for mobile platforms such as rescue robots and lunar rovers that need to adapt to complex terrain, and is applicable to various terrains. In this invention, the device can be installed without the use of special tools (such as jacks) and can be installed on any road surface and under any road conditions. It is simple to use and easy to install; even people without technical or professional knowledge can easily operate it to help vehicles get out of trouble and continue driving.

[0034] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 , 3As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the device includes a radial connecting rod 30, which is the fixed core component of the device. It has a long strip structure. The near end of the radial connecting rod 30 is fixedly connected to the wheel 10, and its far end is fixedly connected to the pedaling device 20, ensuring that the pedaling device 20 and the radial connecting rod 30 are stably connected as a whole.

[0035] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 , 3 As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the stepping device 20 includes a stepping support plate. This component provides direct support for the wheel 10 when the vehicle passes through complex terrain. It adopts a planar or near-planar structure. When the device is in a low position, the stepping support plate contacts the ground, forming an additional support surface that allows the wheel 10 to be lifted and cross obstacles.

[0036] In some embodiments of this utility model, a gripping and anti-slip structure is provided at the bottom of the foot support plate, such as anti-slip patterns or pawls, to enhance the gripping and anti-slip capability of the foot support plate.

[0037] In some embodiments of this utility model, an elastic buffer structure is provided at the bottom of the foot-step support plate. When the foot-step support plate contacts the ground or an obstacle, the rigid impact can easily generate instantaneous peak stress, leading to structural fatigue or vehicle vibration. The elastic buffer layer (such as rubber, polyurethane, or spring composite material) absorbs the impact energy through deformation, reducing the dynamic load transmitted to the tire and vehicle structure and extending the life of the components. When on unstructured terrain (such as gravel or mud), the surface hardness is uneven, and rigid contact with the ground is prone to slipping or sinking. The elastic buffer layer increases the effective contact area with the ground through local deformation, improving friction (anti-slip texture can further enhance this effect), while avoiding the destructive compaction of soft ground by hard materials. In addition, during continuous foot-stepping actions, rigid contact with the ground may cause vehicle bumps or speed fluctuations. The nonlinear deformation characteristics of the elastic material can buffer the sudden acceleration change at the moment of contact with the ground, maintaining the vehicle's driving stability.

[0038] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 , 3 As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the proximal end of the radial connecting rod 30 is fixed to the hub 11 and wheel disc of the wheel 10. Specifically, the proximal end of the radial connecting rod 30 is provided with a connecting hole, which is fixed to the hub 11 by fasteners 31 (such as bolts, studs, clamps, etc.). During installation, this device needs to be fixed to the hub 11 of at least one wheel 10, and standardized installation is performed using the original wheel hub 11 bolts of the vehicle.

[0039] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 2 , 3As shown in Figures 4 and 5, at least one inclined reinforcing member 40 is provided between the radial connecting rod 30 and the ground-pushing device 20. One end of the inclined reinforcing member 40 is connected to the near end of the radial connecting rod 30, and the other end is connected to the edge of the ground-pushing device 20. The inclined reinforcing member 40, the radial connecting rod 30 and the ground-pushing device 20 form a triangular support structure. The main function is to enhance the rigidity and stability of the structure, form anti-deformation support ribs, and prevent the device from deforming when under pressure. Depending on the strength requirements, two or more inclined reinforcing members 40 can be symmetrically configured.

[0040] Tires of different sizes have different rim heights 11. In order to achieve adaptive installation, in some embodiments of this utility model, the length of the radial link 30 is telescopic to adjust its radial connection length, so that when the tire needs to cross an obstacle, the stepping device 20 can effectively contact the ground.

[0041] In some embodiments of this utility model, such as Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the inclined reinforcing member 40, the radial connecting rod 30, and the ground-stepping device 20 are metal, wood, or polymer structures, depending on the vehicle weight and the expected road condition complexity.

[0042] Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention as defined by the claims. Therefore, the detailed description of the embodiments in this disclosure is for explanation only and not for limiting the present invention, but rather the scope of protection is defined by the content of the claims.

Claims

1. A device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles, characterized in that, It includes a foot pedal (20) extending radially along the wheel (10), the foot pedal (20) can rotate with the tire and the foot pedal (20) always faces the ground. When the foot pedal (20) is in a low position during rotation, it contacts the ground and forms a dynamic support point and generates a reaction force during the rotation cycle of the wheel (10), thereby helping the wheel (10) to lift.

2. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a radial link (30), the proximal end of which is fixedly connected to the wheel (10), and the distal end of which is fixedly connected to the pedaling device (20).

3. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The foot-stepping device (20) includes a foot-stepping support plate.

4. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 3, characterized in that, A gripping and anti-slip structure is provided at the bottom of the foot support plate.

5. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 3, characterized in that, An elastic buffer structure is provided at the bottom of the foot support plate.

6. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 2, characterized in that, The proximal end of the radial link (30) is fixed to the vehicle wheel hub (11).

7. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 6, characterized in that, The radial link (30) has a connection hole at its proximal end, which is fixed to the vehicle wheel hub (11) by a fastener (31).

8. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 2, characterized in that, At least one inclined reinforcing member (40) is provided between the radial link (30) and the foot pedal (20). One end of the inclined reinforcing member (40) is connected to the proximal end of the radial link (30), and the other end is connected to the edge of the foot pedal (20). The inclined reinforcing member (40), the radial link (30), and the foot pedal (20) form a triangular support structure.

9. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 2, characterized in that, The length of the radial link (30) is telescopic to adjust its radial connection length.

10. The device for improving the off-road capability of wheeled vehicles according to claim 8, characterized in that, The inclined reinforcing member (40), radial connecting rod (30), and ground-pushing device (20) are metal, wood, or polymer structures.

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