Tractor wheel

Abstract

A tractor wheel 10 is provided. The tractor wheel comprises a circular body 12 having a circumferential rim 14 defining an outer radial surface configured to mount a tyre 102 thereto. The body comprises: a plurality of mounting apertures 16 for receiving fasteners to couple the tractor wheel to a wheel hub of a tractor; and a pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B adjacent but spaced apart from each other. The shackle apertures are located radially outboard of the mounting apertures.

Description

FIELD The present disclosure relates to a tractor wheel, a tractor wheel assembly, a handling apparatus including a tractor wheel, an assembly including a tractor wheel and a handling apparatus, and a kit of parts including a handling apparatus. BACKGROUND Tractor wheels are typically large and heavy in comparison to wheels for smaller vehicles. Therefore, handling of tractor wheels prior to fitting to a tractor presents numerous challenges. It is known to pass a strap through one or more apertures in a wheel centre of a tractor wheel, so that the strap can be used by a machine or vehicle (e.g. a forklift or telehandler) in order to move the tractor wheel. However, such a strap can then be difficult to extract when the wheel is laid down or against a wall. The present disclosure seeks to overcome, or at least mitigate, one or more problems of the prior art. SUMMARY An aspect of the disclosure provides a tractor wheel comprising a circular body having a circumferential rim defining an outer radial surface configured to mount a tyre thereto. The body comprises: a plurality of mounting apertures for receiving fasteners to couple the tractor wheel to a wheel hub of a tractor; and a pair of adjacent shackle apertures arranged to define a spacing therebetween, said shackle apertures configured to receive a connector therethrough. The shackle apertures are located radially outward of the mounting apertures. Having such a pair of shackle apertures allows a shackle (e.g., a D-shackle) to be coupled and de-coupled to the wheel by passing a first part of the shackle (e.g., a U-shaped portion of the shackle) through one of the shackle apertures, and a second part of the shackle (e.g., a pin or bolt) through the other of the shackle apertures. A strap or other handling aid can then be coupled to the shackle. Such an arrangement makes it easier to couple / decouple a strap or other handling aid to the wheel from one side of the wheel, which may be particularly useful when the wheel is resting on the ground or against a wall. It will be understood that a tractor wheel will be fitted to a tractor in a vertical orientation (i.e., with an axis of rotation of the tractor wheel arranged horizontally). A tractor wheel may also be stored in this vertical configuration for space-saving purposes. It will also be understood that having the shackle apertures located radially outboard of the mounting apertures facilitates a handling orientation which is closer to vertical than if a shackle was simply passed through one or more of the mounting apertures, which are comparatively closer to a centre of the wheel. Therefore, use of the shackle apertures may reduce the amount of pivoting of the tractor wheel required for fitting or storage. It should be noted that the shackle apertures are independent of the mounting apertures. In other words, the shackle apertures are provided solely for the purposes of handling the tractor wheel, and are not located so as to be used for mounting the tractor wheel to a wheel hub of a tractor. Optionally, the pair of shackle apertures are spaced apart from each other by a distance in the range of 1 to 50 mm, optionally 3 to 30 mm, optionally 6 to 20 mm, optionally 10 to 15 mm. Such a spacing distance allows common types of shackles to be inserted through the shackle apertures to couple to the body of the wheel. Optionally, the shackle apertures are positioned closer to the rim than to the mounting apertures. This may further facilitate a more vertical handling configuration. Optionally, wherein the shackle apertures are located proximal to the rim. This may further facilitate a more vertical handling configuration. Optionally, the pair of shackle apertures are provided at a radial distance from the rim, wherein the radial distance is less than 60 cm, optionally less than 40 cm, optionally less than 30 cm, optionally less than 20 cm, optionally less than 10 cm. This may further facilitate a more vertical handling configuration. Optionally, the radial distance may be greater than 0.5 cm, optionally greater than 1 cm, optionally greater than 2 cm. For example, the radial distance may be in any of the following ranges: 0.5 cm to 10, 20, 30, 40 or 60 cm; 1 cm to 10, 20, 30, 40 or 60 cm; 2 cm to 10, 20, 30, 40 or 60 cm. Optionally, the rim defines a rim diameter in the range of 1 to 1.6 m, optionally in the range of 1.2 to 1.4 m. Such a rim diameter may be suitable for fitting known tractor tyres to. Optionally, the mounting apertures are arranged in a ring having a mounting diameter in the range of 25 to 40 cm, optionally in the range of 30 to 35 cm. Such a mounting aperture arrangement may be suitable for fitting to known tractor wheel hubs. Optionally, the pair of shackle apertures comprises a first shackle aperture and a second shackle aperture, wherein the first shackle aperture is of different size and / or shape to the second shackle aperture. Optionally, wherein the first shackle aperture is wider than the second shackle aperture. It will be understood that a larger shackle aperture facilitates insertion of a shackle (e.g., a D shackle), but a smaller shackle aperture reduces the amount of movement of the shackle within the aperture, which provides a more secure arrangement and reduces rattling. Therefore, such an arrangement of first and second shackle apertures allows a first part of a shackle (e.g., a U-shaped portion of the shackle) to be easily passed through the first shackle aperture, and a second part of the shackle (e.g., a pin or bolt) to be passed through the second shackle aperture with a relatively tighter fit to provide a secure arrangement which reduces rattling. Optionally, a first shackle aperture of the pair of shackle apertures comprises a width in the range of 10 to 60 mm, optionally 20 to 50 mm, optionally 30 to 40 mm. Such a shackle aperture width facilitates insertion of common U-shaped shackle portions, whilst still being small enough to have a negligible effect on the structural integrity of the tractor wheel. Optionally, a second shackle aperture of the pair of shackle apertures comprises a width in the range of 5 to 40 mm, optionally 10 to 30 mm, optionally 15 to 25 mm. Such a shackle aperture width provides a relatively tight fit with common shackle pins or bolts, which provides a secure arrangement. Optionally, at least one of the shackle apertures is configured to have a mechanical close fit between said shackle aperture and a portion of a shackle. Such an arrangement provides a secure coupling of the shackle. Optionally, each shackle aperture is a circular aperture. The shackle apertures being circular facilitates receiving of known shackle components (e.g., U-shaped portions and pins / bolts). In addition, circular apertures may be easily machined in the wheel (e.g., by using a drill). Optionally, wherein each shackle aperture comprises a centre, and wherein the centres of the shackle apertures are located at a common radial distance from a centre of the wheel. Optionally, the tractor wheel comprises first and second pairs of shackle apertures, the second pair of shackle apertures being spaced apart from the first pair of shackle apertures. Having first and second pairs of shackle apertures allows two shackles to be coupled to the tractor wheel. This may facilitate easier handling (e.g., by passing a strap through both shackles). In addition, this arrangement may inhibit rotation of the tractor wheel when both pairs of shackle apertures are engaged by a handling apparatus (e.g., via shackles coupled between the handling apparatus and the shackle apertures). Optionally, wherein the first and second pairs of shackle apertures are spaced apart circumferentially at a common radial distance from a centre of the tractor wheel. Optionally, the first pair of shackle apertures is located on an opposite side of the wheel to the second pair of shackle apertures. The first and second pairs of shackle apertures being located on opposite sides of the wheel facilitates stable handling when a handling apparatus engages both pairs of shackle apertures (e.g. via shackles located in the respective pairs of shackle apertures). Optionally, the body of the wheel comprises a diameter, wherein each of the first pair of shackle apertures is located on an opposing side of the diameter to the other, and wherein each of the second pair of shackle apertures is located on an opposing side of the diameter to the other. Put another way, the first pair of shackle apertures are spaced apart by a first connecting region of the body and the second pair of shackle apertures are spaced apart by a second connecting region of the body, wherein a diameter of the body of the wheel intersects both of the first and second connecting regions. A further aspect of the teachings provides a tractor wheel assembly comprising a tractor wheel as disclosed herein and a tyre fitted to the rim of the tractor wheel. Such a tractor wheel assembly benefits from the advantages of the tractor wheel outlined above. A further aspect of the teachings provides a handling apparatus for a tractor wheel. The handling apparatus comprises: a base configured to receive a tractor wheel thereon; an upright arm extending from the base; and a transverse arm connected to the upright arm. The transverse arm comprises a mounting arrangement comprising a connector configured and arranged to releasably couple to a pair of spaced apart shackle apertures of a tractor wheel, in use. Such a handling apparatus can be used to handle a tractor wheel, which reduces the need for heavy lifting or non-specialised handling tools. Optionally, the connector comprises a shackle configured to extend through a pair of spaced apart shackle apertures of a tractor wheel, in use. Such a connector provides a simple means of engaging a pair of spaced apart apertures of a tractor wheel. Optionally, the transverse arm is substantially parallel to, and spaced apart from, the base. In other words, the transverse arm is elevated relative to the base, which allows the connector to connect to a tractor wheel at a point above a base of the tractor wheel, which facilitates more secure handling. Optionally, the base comprises a pair of spaced apart support members. Spaced apart support members provide a simple means of supporting an edge of a tractor wheel or tyre (i.e., with each support member engaging a different point on a circumference of the wheel / tyre). Optionally, each support member comprises a roller configured and arranged to receive a tractor wheel thereon for enabling said tractor wheel to be rotated. The support members being rollers allow rotation of the tractor wheel, which facilitates alignment of any shackle apertures of the tractor wheel with the connector(s) of the mounting arrangement. Optionally, the base comprises a plurality of wheels for moving the handling apparatus along a ground surface. Having one or more wheels facilitates movement of the handling apparatus and any tractor wheel coupled thereto. In other words, the handling apparatus is in the form of a trolley. Optionally, the mounting arrangement comprises first and second spaced apart connectors configured and arranged for coupling to first and second pairs of spaced apart shackle apertures of a tractor wheel, respectively. Such an arrangement facilitates a more secure coupling to the tractor wheel, since having multiple connections to the transverse arm will resist rotation of the tractor wheel. Optionally, the first and second connectors are provided at or near first and second ends of the transverse arm, respectively. Optionally, the transverse arm defines a length, wherein the length of the transverse arm is adjustable. The length of the transverse arm being adjustable allows the handling apparatus to engage apertures at different radial positions (e.g., on tractor wheels of different widths). Optionally, the transverse arm comprises a plurality of transverse arm portions which can move relative to each other. Optionally, the plurality of transverse arm portions comprises a central arm portion and first and second side arm portions coupled to opposite sides of the central arm portion. Optionally, the plurality of transverse arm portions are telescopic. Optionally, the plurality of transverse arm portions each comprise a series of complementary formations (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener (e.g., a pin or bolt) in order to set a length of the transverse arm. Having a series of complementary formations (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener (e.g., a pin or bolt) provides a simple means of adjusting the length without requiring any complex tools or powered actuators. In some embodiments, the handling apparatus comprises an actuator for varying a length of the transverse arm (e.g., an electric or hydraulic linear actuator). Optionally, the upright arm defines a length, wherein the length of the upright arm is adjustable. The length of the upright arm being adjustable allows the handling apparatus to engage apertures at different heights (e.g., on tractor wheels of different heights). Optionally, the upright arm is a telescopic upright arm. Optionally, the upright arm comprises a plurality of upright arm portions which can move relative to each other. Optionally, the plurality of upright arm portions each comprise a series of complementary formations (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener (e.g., a pin or bolt) in order to set the length of the upright arm. Having a series of complementary formations (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener (e.g., a pin or bolt) provides a simple means of adjusting the length without requiring any complex tools or powered actuators. In some embodiments, the handling apparatus comprises an actuator for varying a length of the upright arm (e.g., an electric or hydraulic linear actuator). Optionally, the transverse arm is connected to the upright arm by a connecting arm. Optionally, the connecting arm is parallel to the base. In other words, the connecting arm extends in a direction perpendicular to the upright and transverse arms. In this way, the transverse arm is spaced apart from the upright arm in a direction perpendicular to the upright and transverse arms. This spacing allows the transverse arm to be positioned inside a tractor wheel (e.g., inside the rim) so that the connector can engage a pair of shackle apertures, in use. Optionally, the connecting arm is extendable. The connecting arm being extendable allows the connector of the handling apparatus to engage shackle apertures in tractor wheels of different thicknesses (e.g., with different rim depths). In alternative embodiments, the connecting arm is fixed (i.e. not extendable). In such embodiments, the connecting arm may still be arranged so that the transverse arm is spaced apart from the upright arm in a direction perpendicular to the upright and transverse arms. This spacing allows the transverse arm to be positioned inside a tractor wheel (e.g., inside the rim) in order to engage a pair of shackle apertures, in use. In alternative embodiments, the connecting arm is omitted entirely. In other words, the transverse arm may be directly connected to the upright arm. Optionally, the connecting arm is telescopic. Optionally, the connecting arm comprises a first connecting arm portion coupled to the upright arm and a second connecting arm portion coupled to the transverse arm, wherein the first and second connecting arms can move relative to each other. Optionally, the first and second connecting arm portions each comprise a series of complementary formations (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener (e.g., a pin or bolt) in order to set a length of the connecting arm. Having a series of complementary formations (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener (e.g., a pin or bolt) provides a simple means of adjusting the length without requiring any complex tools or powered actuators. In some embodiments, the handling apparatus comprises an actuator for varying a length of the connecting arm (e.g., an electric or hydraulic linear actuator). A further aspect of the teachings provides an assembly comprising a tractor wheel as disclosed herein mounted to a handling apparatus as disclosed herein, wherein the connector of the handling apparatus is engaged with the pair of spaced apart shackle apertures of the tractor wheel. Such an assembly benefits from the advantages of the tractor wheel and handling apparatus outlined above. A further aspect of the teachings provides a kit of parts comprising a handling apparatus as disclosed herein. The kit of parts further comprises a stand for storing one or more tractor wheels and / or one or more tractor wheels as disclosed herein. Such a kit of parts benefits from the advantages of the handling apparatus and tractor wheel, outlined above. Optionally, the handling apparatus comprises a first pair of support members spaced apart by a first distance and configured and arranged to receive a tractor wheel thereon, and the stand comprises a second pair of support members spaced apart by a second distance and configured to receive a tractor wheel thereon, wherein the first and second distances are different. In this way, either the first pair of support members can nest inside the second pair of support members, or vice versa, which facilitates transferring of tractor wheels between the handling apparatus and the stand. Optionally, the pair of support members which are spaced apart by the greater distance have a greater height than the other pair of support members. In this way, the two pairs of support members can engage the same tractor wheel simultaneously, by engaging different points on the circumference of the tractor wheel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following figures in which: Figure 1 is a side view of a tractor wheel according to an embodiment; Figure 2 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the tractor wheel of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a cross section of the wheel of Figure 1 taken along line A-A according to an embodiment; Figure 4 s a cross section of the wheel of Figure 1 taken along line A-A according to an embodiment; Figure 5 is a perspective view of an assembly including the tractor wheel of Figure 1 mounted to a handling apparatus according to an embodiment; and Figure 6 is a perspective view of a handling and storage system including the assembly of Figure 5 and a stand for the tractor wheel of Figure 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring firstly to Figures 1 and 2, a tractor wheel assembly is indicated at 100. The tractor wheel assembly 100 has a tractor wheel 10. The tyre 102 fitted to the rim 14 has a tyre diameter D8. In some embodiments, the tyre diameter D8 is in the range of 1 to 3m, optionally 1.5 to 2.5 m, optionally 1.75 to 2.25 m. For example, in the embodiment of Figure 1, the tyre diameter D8 is approximately 1.95 m. The tractor wheel 10 has a circular body 12 having a circumferential rim 14 defining an outer radial surface configured to which a tyre 102 is mounted. The body 12 has a plurality of mounting apertures 16 for receiving fasteners to couple the tractor wheel 10 to a wheel hub of a tractor (not shown). In this embodiment, the plurality of mounting apertures 16 are provided in a ring surrounding a central aperture 18 in the body 12. The body 12 of the tractor wheel 10 may be of any suitable material. For example, the body 12 may be of metallic material, (e.g., steel, aluminium or suitable alloy materials). The body 12 also has a pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B which are adjacent but spaced apart from each other. As will be described in more detail below, the illustrated embodiment includes two such pairs 20, 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B. In some embodiments, however, only a single pair of shackle apertures may be provided. The shackle apertures 20A, 20B are configured to receive a connector therethrough, Having such a pair 20 of shackle apertures 20B, 20B allows a connector to extend through said apertures 20A, 20B to be coupled and de-coupled to the wheel. In some embodiments, the connector may be a shackle (e.g., a D-shackle). In such embodiments, a first part of the shackle (e.g., a U-shaped portion of the shackle) may pass through one of the shackle apertures, and a second part of the shackle (e.g., a pin or bolt) through the other of the shackle apertures, for example, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. A strap or other handling aid can then be coupled to the shackle. In alternative embodiments, any suitable connector may be used, for example a clamp or hook. The shackle apertures 20A, 20B are located radially outboard of the mounting apertures 16. In other words, the shackle apertures 20A, 20B are positioned further from a centre of the wheel (e.g., from the central aperture 18) than the mounting apertures 16. This facilitates a handling orientation which is closer to vertical than if a shackle was simply passed through one or more of the mounting apertures 16, which are comparatively closer to a centre of the tractor wheel 10. This may reduce the amount of pivoting of the tractor wheel 10 required for fitting or storage. As best illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B are spaced apart from each other by a connecting region 22 of the body 12. In some embodiments, the distance DI between the shackle apertures 20A, 20B (i.e., a length of the connecting region 22) is in the range of 1 to 50 mm, optionally 3 to 30 mm, optionally 6 to 20 mm, optionally 10 to 15 mm. For example, in the embodiment of Figure 3 the distance DI is approximately 12 mm. Such a spacing distance DI allows common types of shackles to be inserted through the shackle apertures 20A, 20B to couple to the body 12 of the tractor wheel 10. For example, in the embodiment of Figure 3 a shackle 2 is shown coupled to the body 12. The shackle 2 has a U-shaped portion 4 and a fastener 6 (e.g., a pin or bolt). The two sides of the U-shaped portion 4 are received in the shackle apertures 20A, 20B, with the connecting region 22 of the body 12 being received therebetween. Figure 4 shows an alternative configuration in which a similar shackle 2 is coupled to the body 12 with the U-shaped portion 4 received in the first shackle aperture 20A and the fastener 6 received in the second shackle aperture 20B. Referring again to Figures 1 and 2, it can be seen that the shackle apertures 20A, 20B are positioned closer to the rim 14 than to the mounting apertures 16. In particular, the shackle apertures 20A, 20B are located proximal to the rim 14. The pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B is provided at a radial distance D2 from the rim 14. In some embodiments, the radial distance D2 is less than 60 cm, optionally less than 40 cm, optionally less than 30 cm, optionally less than 20 cm, optionally less than 10 cm. In some embodiments, the radial distance D2 may be greater than 0.5 cm, optionally greater than 1 cm, optionally greater than 2 cm. For example, the radial distance D2 may be in any of the following ranges: 0.5 cm to 10, 20, 30, 40 or 60 cm; 1 cm to 10, 20, 30, 40 or 60 cm; 2 cm to 10, 20, 30, 40 or 60 cm. In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the radial distance D2 is approximately 14 cm. The pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B is provided at a second radial distance D3 from a centre of the tractor wheel 10. In some embodiments, the second radial distance D3 is greater than 75 cm, optionally greater than 95 cm, optionally greater than 105 cm, optionally greater than 115 cm, optionally greater than 125 cm. In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the second radial distance D3 is approximately 120 cm. The central aperture 18 defines a central diameter D4. In some embodiments, the central diameter D4 is in the range of 15 to 40 cm, optionally 20 to 35 cm, optionally 25 to 30 cm. In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the central diameter D4 is approximately 28 cm. It will be understood that the pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B are provided at a third radial distance from an edge of the central aperture 18, and that the third radial distance corresponds to the second radial distance D3 minus half of the central diameter D4. For example, in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the third radial distance is approximately 106 cm. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting apertures 16 are arranged in a ring having a mounting diameter in the range of 17.5 to 50 cm, optionally 25 to 40 cm, optionally 30 to 35 cm. For example, in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the mounting diameter is approximately 33.5 cm. It will be noted that the mounting diameter is slightly larger than the central diameter D4. Therefore, in embodiments where the central diameter D4 varies, the mounting diameter of the mounting apertures 16 will vary accordingly. The rim 14 defines a rim diameter D5. In some embodiments, the rim diameter D5 is in the range of 0.5 to 2 m, optionally 1 to 1.6 m, optionally 1.2 to 1.4 m. For example, in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the rim diameter D5 is approximately 1.35 m. As best illustrated in Figure 1, each of the first pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B is located on an opposing side of a rim diameter D5 to the other 20A, 20B. Similarly, each of the second pair 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B is located on an opposing side of the rim diameter D5 to the other 20A, 20B. Put another way, the first pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B are spaced apart by a first connecting region of the body 12 and the second pair 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B are spaced apart by a second connecting region of the body 12, wherein the rim diameter D5 intersects both of the first and second connecting regions. As best illustrated in Figures 2 to 4, the first shackle aperture 20A is of different size and / or shape to the second shackle aperture 20B. In particular, the first shackle aperture 20A is wider than the second shackle aperture 20B. Such an arrangement allows a first part of a shackle 2 (e.g., a U-shaped portion 4 of the shackle 2) to be easily passed through the first shackle aperture 20A, and a second part of the shackle 2 (e.g., a pin or bolt 6) to be passed through the second shackle aperture 20B with a relatively tighter fit to provide a secure arrangement which reduces rattling (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 4). In alternative embodiments, the first and second shackle apertures 20A, 20B are of the same size and / or shape. In some embodiments, the first shackle aperture 20A has a width D6 in the range of 10 to 60 mm, optionally 20 to 50 mm, optionally 30 to 40 mm. For example, in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3 the width D6 is approximately 35 mm, and in the embodiment of Figure 4 the width D6 is approximately 42 mm. In some embodiments, the second shackle aperture 20B has a width D7 in the range of 5 to 40 mm, optionally 10 to 30 mm, optionally 15 to 25 mm. For example, in the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3 the width D7 is approximately 20 mm, and in the embodiment of Figure 4 the width D7 is approximately 12 mm. In the embodiment of Figure 4, the second shackle aperture 20B is configured to have a mechanical close fit between the second shackle aperture 20B and a portion 6 of a shackle 2. In alternative embodiments, both shackle apertures 20A, 20B may be configured to have a mechanical close fit (e.g., with left and right sides of the U-shaped portion 4 of the shackle 2). In the illustrated embodiments, each shackle aperture 20A, 20B is a circular aperture. This shape may be beneficial for receiving shackles of circular cross-section, and can be easily machined in the body 12 of the tractor wheel 10 (e.g., by using a drill). In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, each shackle aperture 20A, 20B has a centre, and the centres of the shackle apertures are located at a common radial distance from a centre of the tractor wheel 10. It will be understood that this common radial distance may correspond to the second radial distance D3 described above. In the illustrated embodiment, the second shackle aperture 20B is located in front of the first shackle aperture 20A in a clockwise direction. In alternative embodiments, the first shackle aperture 20A is located in front of the second shackle aperture 20B in the clockwise direction. As mentioned briefly above, the tractor wheel 10 has first and second pairs 20, 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B, the second pair 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B being spaced apart from the first pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B. In the illustrated embodiment, the second pair 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B is of the same configuration as the first pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B. In alternative embodiments, the second pair 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B may be of a different configuration (e.g., having different sizes and / or shapes and / or distances between each other and / or distances to other elements of the tractor wheel 10). In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second pairs 20, 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B are spaced apart circumferentially at a common radial distance from a centre of the tractor wheel 10. It will be understood that this common radial distance corresponds to the second radial distance D3 described above. In other embodiments, the second pair 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B is provided at a different radial distance from a centre of the tractor wheel 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B is located on an opposite side of the tractor wheel 10 to the second pair 20' of shackle apertures 20A, 20B (i.e., approximately 180 degrees apart about a circumference of the tractor wheel 10). Referring now to Figure 5, a handling apparatus for the tractor wheel assembly 100 of Figure 1 is indicated at 200. The handling apparatus 200 has a base 202 configured to receive the tractor wheel assembly 100 thereon. The handling apparatus 200 also has an upright arm 204 extending from the base 202, and a transverse arm 206 connected to the upright arm 204. The transverse arm 206 has a mounting arrangement 208 including a connector 210 configured and arranged to releasably couple to the pair 20 of spaced apart shackle apertures 20A, 20B of the tractor wheel 10. As will be described in more detail below, the mounting arrangement 208 of the illustrated embodiment includes two such connectors 210, 210'. In this embodiment, the connector 210 includes a shackle 2A configured to extend through the pair 20 of spaced apart shackle apertures 20A, 20B of the tractor wheel 10 (e.g., in a similar way to the arrangement illustrated in Figures 3 or 4). The connector 210 also includes a second shackle 2B configured to connect the first shackle 2A to transverse arm 206. In alternative embodiments, the shackle 2A is connected directly to the transverse arm 206. In the illustrated embodiment, the transverse arm 206 is substantially parallel to, and spaced apart from, the base 202. In other words, the transverse arm 206 is elevated relative to the base 202, which allows the connector 210 to connect to the pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B when the tractor wheel 10 is oriented so that the pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B are not located at the bottom of the tractor wheel 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 202 has a pair of spaced apart support members 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the support members 212 are rollers configured and arranged to receive the tractor wheel assembly 100 thereon for enabling said tractor wheel assembly 100 to be rotated. This facilitates alignment of the pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B with the connector(s) 210, 210'. It will be understood that the support members 212 may take the majority of the load applied by the weight of the tractor wheel assembly 100, with the mounting arrangement 208 being used to ensure that the tractor wheel assembly 100 does not fall off the support members 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 202 also has a plurality of wheels 214 (in particular, four wheels 214) for moving the handling apparatus 200 along a ground surface. In other words, the handling apparatus 200 is in the form of a trolley. This allows the tractor wheel assembly 100 to be transported with the handling apparatus 200. As mentioned above, the mounting arrangement 208 has first and second spaced apart connectors 210, 210' configured and arranged for coupling to the first and second pairs 20, 20' of spaced apart shackle apertures 20A, 20B of the tractor wheel 10, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second connectors 210, 210' are provided at first and second ends of the transverse arm 206, respectively. The transverse arm 206 defines a length LI. In the illustrated embodiment, the length LI is adjustable. This allows the handling apparatus 200 to engage shackle apertures at different radial positions (e.g., on tractor wheels 10 of different diameters). In the illustrated embodiment, the transverse arm 206 has a plurality of transverse arm portions 206A, 206B, 206C which can move relative to each other. In particular, the plurality of transverse arm portions 206A, 206B, 206C include a central arm portion 206A and first and second side arm portions 206B, 206C coupled to opposite sides of the central arm portion 206A. In the illustrated embodiment, each transverse arm portion 206A, 206B, 206C is a flat plate-like member. In other embodiments, the transverse arm portions 206A, 206B, 206C are telescopic (e.g., tubes nestable inside one another). In the illustrated embodiment, the transverse arm portions 206A, 206B, 206C each have a series of complementary formations 216 (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener 218 (e.g., a pin or bolt) in order to set the length LI of the transverse arm 206. In other embodiments, the handling apparatus 200 has an actuator for varying the length LI of the transverse arm 206 (e.g., an electric or hydraulic linear actuator). In alternative embodiments, the length LI of the transverse arm 206 is fixed. For example, the transverse arm 206 may be formed as a single member. The upright arm 204 defines a length L2. In the illustrated embodiment, the length L2 is adjustable. This allows the handling apparatus 200 to engage shackle apertures at different heights (e.g., on tractor wheels 10 of different diameters). In the illustrated embodiment, the upright arm 204 has a plurality of upright arm portions 204A, 204B which can move relative to each other. In particular, there is a first upright arm portion 204A and a second upright arm portion 204B, although three or more upright arm portions may be provided in other embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the upright arm 204 is telescopic. In other words, the upright arm portions 204A, 204B are tubes nestable within one another (in particular, with the second upright arm portion 204B nestable inside the first upright arm portion 204A). In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of upright arm portions 204A each have a series of complementary formations 216 (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener 218 (e.g., a pin or bolt) in order to set the length of the upright arm 204. In other embodiments only one of the upright arm portions 204A, 204B has a series of formations (e.g., apertures) 216 and the other of the upright arm portions 204A has a complementary single formation (e.g., aperture). In other embodiments, the handling apparatus 200 has an actuator for varying the length L2 of the upright arm 204 (e.g., an electric or hydraulic linear actuator). In the illustrated embodiment, the transverse arm 206 is connected to the upright arm 204 by a connecting arm 220 which is parallel to the base so that the transverse arm 206 is spaced apart from the upright arm 204 in a direction perpendicular to the upright and transverse arms 204, 206. This allows the transverse arm 206 to be positioned inside the tractor wheel 10 (e.g., inside the rim 14) so that the connector 210 can engage the pair 20 of shackle apertures 20A, 20B. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting arm 220 is extendable in a direction perpendicular to the upright and transverse arms 204, 206. This allows the connector 210 to engage shackle apertures in tractor wheels of different thicknesses (e.g., with different rim depths). In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting arm 220 has a first connecting arm portion 220A coupled to the upright arm 204 and a second connecting arm portion 220B coupled to the transverse arm 206. The first and second connecting arms 220A, 220B can move relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting arm 220 is telescopic (e.g., with the first connecting arm portion 220A nesting inside the second connecting arm portion 220B). In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second connecting arm portions 220A, 220B comprise a series of complementary formations 216 (e.g., apertures) for engagement with a fastener 218 (e.g., a pin or bolt) in order to set a length L3 of the connecting arm 220. In alternative embodiments, the handling apparatus 200 has an actuator for varying the length L3 of the connecting arm 220 (e.g., an electric or hydraulic linear actuator). In alternative embodiments, the connecting arm 220 is fixed (i.e., not extendable). In such embodiments, the connecting arm may still be arranged so that the transverse arm is spaced apart from the upright arm in a direction perpendicular to the upright and transverse arms. In alternative embodiments, the connecting arm 220 is omitted entirely. In other words, the transverse arm 206 may be directly connected to the upright arm 204. Referring now to Figure 6, the handling apparatus 200 of Figure 5 is shown in a kit of parts for a storage and handling system including a stand 300 for storing a further tractor wheel assembly 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the stand 300 has a base 302 configured to receive the further tractor wheel assembly 100 and an upright arm 304 extending from the base 302. The base 302 has a pair of spaced apart support members 312 configured and arranged to receive the tractor wheel assembly 100 thereon. In the illustrated embodiment, the support members 212 of the handling apparatus 200 are spaced apart by a first distance SI, and the support members 312 of the stand 300 are spaced apart by a second distance SI. The first and second distances SI, S2 are different. In particular, the first distance SI is greater than the second distance S2. In this way, the support members 312 of the stand 300 can nest inside the support members 212 of the handling apparatus 200, which facilitates transferring of tractor wheel assemblies 100 between the handling apparatus 200 and the stand 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the support members 212 of the handling apparatus 200 have a greater height than the support members 312 of the stand 300, which allows both pairs of support members 212, 312 to engage the same tractor wheel assembly 100 simultaneously, by engaging different points on the circumference of the tractor wheel assembly 100. This further facilitates transfer of tractor wheel assemblies 100 between the handling apparatus 200 and the stand 300. It will be understood that in order to transfer a tractor wheel assembly 100 from the handling apparatus 200 to the stand 300, the handling apparatus 200 would be driven up to the stand 300 so that the support members 312 of the stand 300 are positioned under the tractor wheel assembly 100. The tractor wheel assembly may then be lowered (e.g., by lowering the base 202 and / or support members 212 of the handling apparatus 200 via any suitable mechanism), until the tractor wheel assembly 100 is supported on the base 302 of the stand. The connectors 210, 210' may then be disconnected from the shackle apertures 20A, 20B and the handling apparatus 200 may then be moved away from the stand 300. In order to remove a tractor wheel assembly 100 from the stand 300 to the handling apparatus 200, this process may be reversed. The handling apparatus 200 and / or the stand 300 may be of any suitable material. For example, the handling apparatus 200 and / or the stand 300 may be of metallic material (e.g., steel, aluminium or suitable alloy materials). Although the invention has been described in relation to one or more embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example: It should also be noted that whilst the appended claims set out particular combinations of features described above, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the particular combinations hereafter claimed, but instead extends to encompass any combination of features herein disclosed.

Claims

1. A tractor wheel comprising a circular body having a circumferential rim defining an outer radial surface configured to mount a tyre thereto, wherein the body comprises:a plurality of mounting apertures for receiving fasteners to couple the tractor wheel to a wheel hub of a tractor; anda pair of adjacent shackle apertures arranged to define a spacing therebetween, said shackle apertures configured to receive a connector therethrough,wherein the shackle apertures are located radially outward of the mounting apertures.

2. The tractor wheel of claim 1, wherein the pair of shackle apertures are spaced apart from each other by a distance in the range of 1 to 50 mm, optionally 3 to 30 mm, optionally 6 to 20 mm, optionally 10 to 15 mm.

3. The tractor wheel of claim 1 or 2, wherein the shackle apertures are positioned closer to the rim than to the mounting apertures; optionally, wherein the shackle apertures are located proximal to the rim.

4. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, wherein the pair of shackle apertures are provided at a radial distance from the rim, wherein the radial distance is less than 60 cm, optionally less than 40 cm, optionally less than 30 cm, optionally less than 20 cm, optionally less than 10 cm.

5. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, wherein the rim defines a rim diameter in the range of 1 to 1.6 m, optionally in the range of 1.2 to 1.4 m.

6. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, wherein the mounting apertures are arranged in a ring having a mounting diameter in the range of 25 to 40 cm, optionally in the range of 30 to 35 cm.

7. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, wherein the pair of shackle apertures comprises a first shackle aperture and a second shackle aperture, and wherein the first shackle aperture is of different size and / or shape to the second shackle aperture; optionally, wherein the first shackle aperture is wider than the second shackle aperture.

8. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, wherein a first shackle aperture of the pair of shackle apertures comprises a width in the range of 10 to 60 mm, optionally 20 to 50 mm, optionally 30 to 40 mm.

9. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, wherein a second shackle aperture of the pair of shackle apertures comprises a width in the range of 5 to 40 mm, optionally 10 to 30 mm, optionally 15 to 25 mm.

10. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the shackle apertures is configured to have a mechanical close fit between said shackle aperture and a portion of a shackle.

11. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, wherein each shackle aperture is a circular aperture; optionally, wherein each shackle aperture comprises a centre, and wherein the centres of the shackle apertures are located at a common radial distance from a centre of the wheel.

12. The tractor wheel of any preceding claim, comprising first and second pairs of shackle apertures, the second pair of shackle apertures being spaced apart from the first pair of shackle apertures; optionally, wherein the first and second pairs of shackle apertures are spaced apart circumferentially at a common radial distance from a centre of the tractor wheel.

13. The tractor wheel of claim 12, wherein the first pair of shackle apertures is located on an opposite side of the wheel to the second pair of shackle apertures.

14. A tractor wheel assembly comprising the tractor wheel of any preceding claim and a tyre fitted to the rim of the tractor wheel.

15. A handling apparatus for a tractor wheel, the handling apparatus comprising:a base configured to receive a tractor wheel thereon;an upright arm extending from the base; and a transverse arm connected to the upright arm, wherein the transverse arm comprises a mounting arrangement comprising a connector configured and arranged to releasably couple to a pair of spaced apart shackle apertures of a tractor wheel, in use.

16. The handling apparatus of claim 15, wherein the connector comprises a shackle configured to extend through a pair of spaced apart shackle apertures of a tractor wheel, in use.

17. The handling apparatus of claim 15 or 16, wherein the transverse arm is substantially parallel to, and spaced apart from, the base.

18. The handling apparatus of claim 15, 16 or 17, wherein the base comprises a pair of spaced apart support members; optionally, wherein each support member comprises a roller configured and arranged to receive a tractor wheel thereon for enabling said tractor wheel to be rotated.

19. The handling apparatus of any of claims 15 to 18, wherein the base comprises a plurality of wheels for moving the handling apparatus along a ground surface.

20. The handling apparatus of any of claims 15 to 19, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises first and second spaced apart connectors configured and arranged for coupling to first and second pairs of spaced apart shackle apertures of a tractor wheel, respectively; optionally, wherein the first and second connectors are provided at or near first and second ends of the transverse arm, respectively.

21. The handling apparatus of claim 20, wherein the transverse arm defines a length, and wherein the length of the transverse arm is adjustable.

22. The handling apparatus of any of claims 15 to 21, wherein the upright arm defines a length, wherein the length of the upright arm is adjustable.

23. The handling apparatus of any of claims 15 to 22, wherein the transverse arm is connected to the upright arm by a connecting arm; optionally, wherein the connecting arm is extendable.

24. An assembly comprising the tractor wheel of any of claims 1 to 14 mounted to the handling apparatus of any of claims 15 to 23, wherein the connector of the handling apparatus is engaged with the pair of spaced apart shackle apertures of the tractor wheel.

25. A kit of parts comprising the handling apparatus of any of claims 15 to 23, the kit of parts further comprising a stand for storing one or more tractor wheels and / or one or more tractor wheels according to any of claims 1 to 14.

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