Wheel ring comprising a wheel nut indicator

Abstract

Position indicator (1) for indicating a rotation of a wheel nut comprising a rim cover (2) provided with nut mounting positions and arrangeable in a covering position on a wheel rim, wherein the rim cover comprises an anchoring element provided at at least one of the nut mounting positions for anchoring the rim cover to the wheel rim upon arrangement of the rim cover in the covering position; a nut piece (4) comprising a nut engagement surface to, upon pressing the piece on a wheel nut, engage with the wheel nut to rotatably fix the nut piece with respect to the nut; and a visual marker (5) for indicating loosening of the wheel nut, wherein the visual marker (5) comprises a rim cover marker portion (51) arranged on the rim cover and a distinct nut marker (52) portion that is arranged on the nut piece, wherein the rim cover marker portion and the nut marker portion are movable with respect to each other upon movement of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover, between: an initial state, in which the hub marker portion and the nut marker portion are aligned with each other and in which a tightened position of the wheel nut is indicated, and a warning state, in which the hub marker portion and the nut marker portion are unaligned such that loosening of the wheel nut is indicated.

Description

[0001] Title: Wheel ring comprising a wheel nut indicator

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a position indicator for indicating rotation of a wheel nut with respect to a wheel hub, a wheel hub comprising a bolt, a wheel nut and a position indicator and a vehicle comprising the wheel hub. The present invention further relates to a method for providing position indication of a wheel nut.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] Loose wheel nuts are the most common cause of wheels on vehicles coming loose. Stud bolts may lengthen and / or the nut may for example loosen due to vibrations, centrifugal forces and / or temperature variations exerted on the wheel. For improving road safety, road safety bodies recommend wheel nut indicators to be arranged on the wheel nuts. Known wheel nut indicators usually comprise a pointed tag of fluorescent bright plastic which is fixed to the lug nuts of the wheels of a vehicle.

[0006] The wheel nut indicator rotates with the wheel nut, such that when the nut becomes loose, the point of the tag is rotated. Due to the appearance, a rotated wheel nut indicator may be detected easier than a rotation of the nut itself. Furthermore, the wheel nut indicators may be applied to the wheel nuts nut in a predetermined direction, for example with groups of two indicators pointing at each other. This way, when two consecutive wheel nut indicators are no longer pointing at each other, a loosened wheel nut may be detected upon a relatively small movement thereof.

[0007] However, the existing wheel nut indicators are made to stand out a lot. As a result, they are not appreciated aesthetically and are therefore not always used. Furthermore, fitting a wheel nut indicator makes may make it impossible to cover the wheel nut and / or corresponding bolt with a cover cap to protect it from external influences, such as dirt and / or moisture.

[0008] For example, GB2502988A discloses a conventional nut cover having a pointed recess that is always visible. The nut cover can be fitted over a wheel nut, with the pointed recess on the end of the nut cover being positioned in an easily rememberable position, e.g. pointing to the centre of the wheel, such that rotation of the nut can be easily observed.

[0009] Furthermore, as the wheel nuts are tightened to a specific torque, they may have an angular positional difference with respect to each other. As a result, the indicators cannot always be aligned in the predetermined directions. Thus, the pointers are already placed with a slight misalignment in relation to a predetermined direction (for example, causing two consecutive pointers not to not point at each other precisely). This misalignment further worsens the aesthetic appearance, and because it the misalignment is already present when the pointers are installed, misalignment increases difficulty if detection of a slight rotation of the wheel nut.

[0010] Known indicators are often attached by pressing the indicator on a nut, whereby the indicator is fixed to the nut by clamping around and / or friction with the nut.

[0011] As an example, US2013087091A1 discloses a nut cap having a nut rotation indicator that is attached by pressing the indicator on all wheel nuts. Attachment is performed due to friction between the nut caps and the nuts. In order to increase security of the fit, a molding material, such as a silicon or epoxy can be inserted into the nut cap.

[0012] As another example, US7415888B2 discloses a safety device comprising a planar ring provided with position indicator caps, each comprising a cylindrical wall having splines on the inside for retention on a wheel nut by a push fit.

[0013] It has been found that the indicator may sometimes come loose from the nut.

[0014] Particularly when relatively large indicators are used, for example on trucks and buses, and / or when multiple indicators are used, which e.g. may be coupled to each other, this may lead to unsafe situations. Further, existing indicators may be prone to tampering or theft as the indicators may be removed relatively easily, e.g. by pulling the indicator from the wheel. Further, known indicators can be prone to contamination, causing the visibility of the indicator to be diminished.

[0015] Object of the invention

[0016] It is therefore an object of the invention to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks, or at least to provide an alternative position indicator for indicating rotation of a wheel nut with respect to a wheel hub, that can be fixed more safely, that provides protection of the wheel bolt and nut against external influences, that is easier to mount, that is less prone to theft, and / or that does not require alignment to an external reference and / or that does not suffer from misalignment of multiple wheel nut indicators with respect to each other.

[0017] Description of the invention

[0018] According to an aspect, the invention provides a position indicator according to claim 1. The position indicator is suitable for indicating a rotation of a wheel nut with respect to a wheel rim fixed with wheel bolts and comprises a rim cover provided with nut mounting positions that is arrangeable in a covering position on a wheel rim. The rim cover comprises an anchoring element provided at at least one of the nut mounting positions for anchoring the rim cover to the wheel rim upon arrangement of the rim cover in the covering position. The position indicator further comprises a nut piece comprising a nut engagement surface to, upon pressing the piece on a wheel nut, engage with the wheel nut to rotatably fix the nut piece with respect to the nut, and a visual marker for indicating loosening of the wheel nut. The visual marker comprises a rim cover marker portion arranged on the rim cover and a distinct nut marker portion that is arranged on the nut piece, wherein the rim cover marker portion and the nut marker portion are movable with respect to each other upon movement of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover, between an initial state and a warning state.

[0019] In the initial state, the hub marker portion and the nut marker portion are aligned with each other and a tightened position of the wheel nut is indicated, and in the warning state, the hub marker portion and the nut marker portion are unaligned such that loosening of the wheel nut is indicated.

[0020] In contrast with the prior art, the position indicator is integrated into a rim cover, that can be fixed to the wheel hub via an anchoring element upon arrangement of the rim cover in the covering position. Therewith, the position indicator is anchored and the chances of unexpected loosening of the rim cover are reduced.

[0021] Further, the detection of a loose wheel nut is dependent on the state change of the indicator caused by relative movement between the nut piece and the rim cover. Upon arranging the rim cover on the wheel hub in the covering position, the rim cover is rotatably fixed with respect to the wheel hub u As such, detection of a loose wheel nut can be performed without requirement of an external reference, that is, a reference external from the rim cover and / or the nut. As such, alignment of the indicator may be performed with respect to the rim cover only, and no time-consuming alignment of the indicator with respect to an external reference, such as the ground or another wheel nut indicator, may be necessary. This may allow for faster application of the position indicator.

[0022] Additionally, as the nut marker portion and the hub marker portion are movable between two states, the appearance of the wheel nut indicator may be different in both states. For example, the wheel nut indicator may be relatively inconspicuous in the initial state, e.g. look like a regular wheel nut cap, and the wheel nut indicator may stand out in the warning state. As a result, the position indicator may be appreciated aesthetically in the initial state and still provide a reliable warning in the warning state.

[0023] Further, as alignment of the indicator with respect to other indicators is no longer required for detection of rotation of the wheel nut, misalignment between multiple indicators does no longer have a negative effect on detection of slight rotations of the nut.

[0024] Finally, the position indicator according to the present invention may be provided with an improved aesthetic appearance which will be beneficial for adaptation and usage by vehicle owners.

[0025] The position indicator may comprise various shapes, sizes and configurations. For example, the position indicator may be sized to be provided on a circular rim and configured to couple with a wheel of a car, truck, tractor or bus. The rim cover may have a partially circular shape, for example a ring-shape, e.g. a ring sized and configured to couple with a wheel rim of a vehicle.

[0026] The rim cover may comprise a relatively a stiff material, for example a metal or a polymer. Advantageously, the rim cover comprises a relatively corrosion resistant material. The rim cover may be configured to extend between two or more bolts when arranged in the covering position, for example to extend along all wheel bolts.

[0027] The position indicator may comprise multiple nut pieces, such that each of the nut mounting positions may be provided with a nut piece. The nut mounting positions are spaced with respect to each other to be aligned with respective wheel bolts of a wheel rim in the covering position, The nut mounting positions may comprise a recess for accommodating a bolt and / or a nut.

[0028] The anchoring element may be provided near and / or at the nut mounting positions, such that upon arrangement of the rim cover in the covering position on the wheel hub, a nut can be provided on a wheel bolt at the at least one of the nut mounting positions to clamp the anchoring element between the nut and the wheel hub and thereby anchor the position indicator to the rim.

[0029] In an embodiment, the nut piece is separable from the rim cover. All or some of the nut pieces may be separable from the rim cover, for example the nut pieces that are arranged at the nut mounting positions at or nearby the anchoring element. A releasable connection between the rim cover and the nut piece may reduce the chances of the nut coming loose. The nut piece and the rim cover may be configured to connect when pressing the nut piece on the nut, when the rim cover is in the covering position. This may allow for convenient installation. The position indicator may comprise a connection element, such as a retainer, or snap fit element.

[0030] In an embodiment, the nut piece is configured to, upon pressing the nut piece on a wheel nut, cover the anchoring element. In an embodiment, the position indicator further comprises a cap piece that is arrangeable over the nut piece and configured to engage with the nut piece and / or the rim cover. The cap piece may be configured to, upon arranging the cap piece over the nut piece, cover the anchoring element.

[0031] By having the cap piece and / or the nut piece covering the anchoring element, several advantages may be achieved. First, visibility of the anchoring element may be blocked by the nut piece, such that aesthetics are further improved. Access to the anchoring element may be blocked by the nut piece .This way, removal of the nut piece is required before being able to access the nut and / or the anchor piece for removal of the position indicator, and the risk of tampering and / or theft is reduced, especially when special tools are required for removal of the cap piece and / or the nut piece.

[0032] In an embodiment, the nut piece and the cap piece are configured to be pre-assembled to each other, for example pre-assembled before connecting the nut piece and / or the cap piece to the rim cover. Therewith, assembly is made relatively easy as the nut piece and the cap piece may be provided over the wheel nut and attached to the rim cover as a single assembly, e.g. using a single push movement. Additionally, the nut piece and the cap piece may be removable as a single assembly. Therewith, removal of the nut piece and / or the cap piece from the rim cover may be made easier.

[0033] The nut piece and / or the cap piece may be provided with a sloped sliding surface configured to cooperate with the cap piece or the nut piece, respectively, to provide a rotation movement to the nut piece about the longitudinal axis of the hollow interior, e.g. when the nut piece is pressed against a nut. This way, when the nut piece is not aligned with the nut, the sliding surface may be configured to rotate the nut piece upon the application of a pushing force to the cap piece, until the nut piece is aligned with the nut and can be pushed further over the nut.

[0034] According to an embodiment, the nut piece is provided with a snap fit connection for connecting the nut piece to the rim cover. Additionally and / or alternatively, a cap piece may be provided over the nut piece, wherein the cap piece is provided with a snap fit connection. This way, the nut piece and the cap piece may be configured to be pre-assembled to each other, before connecting the nut piece and / or the cap piece to the rim cover.

[0035] Alternatively, other connections may be used, such as a bayonet connection, magnetic connection or a connection via retractable pins.

[0036] Alignment elements may be provided for aligning the nut piece and / or the cap piece with respect to the rim cover. This way, alignment of the visual indicator portions in the initial state may be ensured.

[0037] The anchoring element may be configured to anchor the rim cover such that rotation with respect to the wheel and / or wheel hub is prevented. The anchoring element may fix the rim cover with respect to the hub by means of a shape lock, force lock, e.g. friction, magnetic lock, glue, or another type of lock, and for example comprise a bolt opening or recess for being clamped by a nut provided on a bolt that protrudes through the bolt opening or recess in the covering position. Additionally or alternatively, the rim cover may comprise a friction surface and / or snap fingers to snap around the screw thread of the bolt.

[0038] For example, the rim cover may comprise a clamp, magnet, or glue surface, e.g. as a sticker, for interlocking with a bolt and the nut piece may interlock with the nut by means of induced friction force.

[0039] In an embodiment, the anchoring element comprises a clamping surface arranged to be clamped between a wheel nut and the wheel hub, e.g. via the wheel rim, such that the nut piece can be provided on a wheel nut after anchoring the position indicator by screwing the wheel nut on a respective wheel bolt.

[0040] The nut piece may be provided with a pushing surface configured to, when pressing the nut piece on the nut and when the rim cover has prior been arranged around the bolt on which the nut is arranged, push the rim cover further against the wheel hub to fix the rim cover on the wheel hub.

[0041] The anchoring element may be configured to engage with the wheel sufficiently such that rotation of the rim cover with respect to the hub is avoided. The anchoring element may have a shape substantially corresponding to a wheel bolt, for example having inner dimensions that are substantially equal to and / or larger than the outer dimensions of the wheel bolt. The anchoring element may be provided with a microscopically and / or macroscopically structured surface to improve friction with the wheel hub.

[0042] The nut piece may be configured to engage with the wheel nut such that rotation of the nut with respect to the nut piece is avoided, for example by means of a shape lock. Additionally or alternatively, the nut piece may clamp the nut or engage therewith in another way. The nut engagement surface may be provided with an inner contour that substantially corresponds to the outer contour of a wheel nut, for example having inner dimensions that are substantially equal to the outer dimensions of the wheel nut. The inner dimensions may be slightly smaller than the outer dimensions of the wheel nut, and / or the inner dimensions may vary, e.g. be tapered, to, upon pressing the nut piece on the nut, induce a relatively large friction force with the nut and to interlock with the nut by means of the friction force.

[0043] The nut piece may be configured to engage with the rim cover to avoid movement of the nut piece along a longitudinal axis of the respective bolt. The nut engagement surface may be rotationally symmetric, such that the position indicator may be arranged on a wheel nut relatively easy, for example without aligning the visual marker in a specific direction. This way, the indicator may be arranged in multiple rotational positions with respect to the wheel nut, in contrast with prior art.

[0044] The nut engagement surface may have indents corresponding to one more wheel nut sizes, such that the position indicator may be provided on wheel nuts with respective nut sizes. The nut engagement surface may for example have an inner contour corresponding to one or more wheel nut sizes.

[0045] The indicator may be arranged on a wheel nut in the initial state. As the visual marker may move between the initial state and the warning state, loosening of the wheel nut may be apparent by the state change of the visual marker caused by relative rotation between the nut piece and the rim cover.

[0046] In an embodiment, the nut piece comprises a first open end, a second end and a wall section that extends between the first open end and the second end and that delimits a hollow interior, wherein the wall section is provided with the nut engagement surface in the hollow interior, wherein the rim cover is configured to engage the first open end of the nut piece. The first open end may be releasably connectable to the rim cover.

[0047] In the prior art, fitting a wheel nut indicator would make it impossible to cover the wheel nut and / or corresponding bolt with a cover cap to protect it from external influences, such as dirt and / or moisture, while also anchoring the rim cover to the wheel hub. By having the hollow interior, the bolt and the nut may be provided therein to be protected from externa influences.

[0048] In an embodiment, the nut piece is rotatable with respect to the rim cover around a rotation axis. The rotation axis may be a longitudinal axis of the hollow interior. The rotation axis may be defined a longitudinal axis of the respective bolt at the nut mounting position when the rim cover is in the covering position.

[0049] In embodiments having a transmission mechanism, the transmission mechanism may be configured to transmit relative movement between the nut piece and the rim cover around the rotation axis to the visual marker.

[0050] In an embodiment, the anchoring element is integral with the rim cover. The anchoring element may be co-moulded with the rim cover. This way, an even more stable anchoring to the wheel hub may be achieved.

[0051] In an embodiment, the rim cover defines a longitudinal plane, and the anchoring element comprises a first section that extends away from the plane, for example transverse thereto, and a second section that extends substantially parallel to the plane. The nut mounting positions may each comprise a bolt recesses, e.g. wherein the bolt recess is arranged in the second section It has been found that this arrangement allows for a compact anchoring element having stable anchoring.

[0052] According to an embodiment, multiple anchoring elements are provided at the bolt mounting positions. Some and / or all of the bolt mounting positions may be provided with an anchoring element.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the anchoring element comprises a more durable material than the rim cover.

[0054] The rim cover and / or the nut piece may for example comprise a first material, e.g. a polymer, wherein anchoring element comprises a second material, e.g. wherein the second material has a higher compressive strength than the first material. The second material may for example be a metal. It has been found that this way, a relatively high clamping force between the nut piece and the rim cover may be provided, while allowing economic production of the position indicator.

[0055] In an embodiment, the indicator further comprises a limitation mechanism functionally arranged between the rim cover and the nut piece, and configured to limit movement of the respective nut piece with respect to the rim cover. It has been found that this way, not only indication may be provided, such that appropriate action can be taken, whereas also further rotation of the wheel nut is prevented. The limitation mechanism may comprise a protrusion on the hub cover, e.g. on the cap piece, and a counter protrusion on the nut piece, that block further movement.

[0056] The limitation mechanism may be configured to limit further movement of the nut piece when movement exceeds a threshold value, for example when the visual marker has moved into the warning state. The position of the protrusion and / or the counter protrusion with respect to the visual marker may be predetermined. Additionally, at least one of the protrusions may be formed as a snap fit connection, such that upon touching of the respective protrusion and counter protrusion the nut piece is locked and cannot rotate any further. As such, further loosening of the nut may be prevented.

[0057] The limitation mechanism may be configured to limit movement in a single direction, and / or in two directions and may for example comprise a blocking pin, a flexible vane and / or a ratchet mechanism, or a combination thereof to limit movement in one and / or in two directions. In an embodiment, the indicator comprises a cap piece that is arrangeable over the nut piece and configured to engage with the rim cover. The cap piece may be separable from and releasably connectable to the rim cover as described for the nut piece.

[0058] In contrast with the nut piece, the cap piece may be connectable to the rim cover such that no movement between the cap piece and the rim cover is possible. The cap piece may limit chances of the nut pieces moving away from the nut and thereby provide additional safety.

[0059] The rim cover and the cap piece may be connectable such that no rotation of the cap piece with respect to the rim cover is possible upon connection, for example, by comprising a complementary shape to avoid rotation of the cap piece.

[0060] Additionally and / or alternatively, the cap piece may be configured to at least partially shield the nut piece from the environment. The cap piece may comprise a first open end, a second end and a wall section that extends between the first open end and the second end and that delimits a hollow interior, wherein the nut piece is configured to be confined in the hollow interior.

[0061] In an embodiment, the hub marker portion is provided on the cap piece. It has been found that such position is advantageous for visibility of the visual marker. The cap piece may be releasably connectable to engage the rim cover with the first open end, and be provided with the hub marker portion at the wall section and / or at the second end.

[0062] In the initial state, alignment of the hub marker portion and the nut marker portion may be such that the nut marker portion is covered by the cap piece.

[0063] In an embodiment, the nut marker portion is covered by the rim cover marker portion in the initial state, such that visibility of the nut marker portion in the warning state is limited, and the cap piece may be configured not to cover the nut marker portion in the warning state, such that the nut marker portion is visible in the warning state, or vice versa.

[0064] The rim cover marker portion may, in use, be arranged outwardly from the nut marker portion to block visibility from users in the initial state. The skilled worker will understand that users in this embodiment may be understood as any person checking the indicator when arranged on the wheel nut, for example a truck driver. The nut marker portion may e.g. be arranged on the nut piece at the second end.

[0065] In addition to a hub marker portion and a nut marker portion, multiple portions may be provided.

[0066] In embodiments having a transmission mechanism, that mechanism may be configured to move the visual marker with respect to the rim cover to change the visible portions at least partially to indicate loosening of the wheel nut.

[0067] In an embodiment, in the initial state, the rim cover marker portion is visible, and, in the warning state, the nut marker portion is at least partially visible, or vice versa.

[0068] In an embodiment, the cap piece comprises a slot, and the visual marker comprises an outer end arranged at the slot at the rim cover marker portion and / or nut marker portion, wherein movement of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover results in pushing the outer end through the slot to protrude through the cap piece in the warning state.

[0069] The slot may comprise an entrance ramp to facilitate movement of the outer end through the slot. The part of the visual marker protruding through the slot may be uncovered by the cap piece, wherein the part of the visual marker not protruding through the slot may be covered by the cap piece. As such, indication of loosening may be provided by simply having the outer end protruding through the slot as visible portion.

[0070] When the transmission mechanism is provided, it may be configured to move the visual marker through the slot.

[0071] In an embodiment, the cap piece is provided with a viewing opening for viewing the nut marker portion in the warning state. The cap piece may form a housing for the nut piece. By having a viewing opening, the nut piece cover may be enclosed in the housing while allowing a user to view the nut marker portion.

[0072] The viewing opening may form the hub cover marker portion.

[0073] In an embodiment, the rim cover marker portion and the nut marker portion are each provided with a different surface appearance, such as different colour and / or texture. The rim cover marker portion and the nut marker portion may each have a different outer appearance. This may further enable easier detection of loose wheel nuts. Further, having multiple portions may enable quick detection of degree of loosening of the wheel nut.

[0074] For example, the hub marker portion may have an outer appearance similar to the rim cover and / or nut piece, for example have a grey or black colour, and the nut marker portion has an outer appearance contrasting with the respective rim cover and / or nut piece, for example have a contrasting colour. It has been found that this way, the hub marker portion and / or the nut marker portion may be integral with the rim cover and / or nut piece respectively, for example by being formed therein.

[0075] In an embodiment, the nut piece part not provided with the nut marker portion has a surface appearance, such as colour and / or texture, that substantially corresponds to the rim cover and / or wherein the nut marker portion has an surface appearance that substantially contrasts with the rim cover.

[0076] This way, in the initial state, the indicator may have an unobtrusive outer performance, whereas, in the warning state, the contrasting surface is visible to provide a clear warning. As such, aesthetics of the indicator are improved compared to the prior art, without diminishing safety. In the initial state, the indicator may have the outer appearance of a regular wheel cover provided with nut caps.

[0077] In an embodiment, the nut piece is provided with multiple nut marker portions and / or wherein the rim cover is provided with multiple rim cover marker portions.

[0078] This way, redundancy is provided, for example when one of the marker portions would not be noticed or is difficult to notice, e.g. due to soiling or orientation of the respective marker portions.

[0079] Two hub marker portions and two nut marker portions may be provided. The hub marker portions and / or nut marker portions may be arranged in a circle. The marker portions may be shaped like circle sections. The hub marker portions and nut marker portions may be arranged alternatingly.

[0080] The hub marker portions and nut marker portions may have a corresponding surface area, such that the hub marker portion and nut marker portions may be aligned with each other, e.g. be hidden behind each other in the initial state.

[0081] In an embodiment, in the initial state, the multiple hub marker portions are aligned with the respective multiple nut marker portions and, in the warning state, the multiple hub marker portions are no longer aligned with the multiple nut marker portions.

[0082] In an embodiment, a part of the nut piece not provided with the nut marker portion is provided with a second opening and, in the initial state, the second opening is aligned with the viewing opening. This way, in the initial state, the bolt may be visible. As such, the second opening may allow to check the state of the bolt and / or to check if the rim cover is sufficiently engaged with the bolt.

[0083] In an embodiment, the viewing opening is covered with a transparent material. This way, ingress of dirt into the nut piece may be avoided. In use, the first end of the cap piece may engage the wheel cover, such that the hollow interior is closed by the wheel cover and the wall section. The viewing opening is arranged in the wall section, such that covering reduces ingress of external substances.

[0084] The opening may be fully and / or partially covered by the transparent material. Translucent may also be considered transparent. In an embodiment, the position indicator further comprises a transmission mechanism distinct from the rim cover, the nut piece and the visual marker, wherein the visual marker is movably attached to the rim cover and / or the nut piece, and the transmission mechanism is operatively connected to the nut piece and / or the rim cover, respectively, to transmit relative movement between the nut piece and the rim cover to the visual marker to move the visual marker from the initial state to the warning state to indicate loosening of the wheel nut.

[0085] By having a transmission mechanism, the movement of the wheel nut with respect to the bolt may be transferred indirectly. That way, the visual marker may be configured to move between the warning state and the initial state differently, for example faster than the relative movement of the wheel nut with respect to the bolt. Alternatively, the visual marker may be configured to move between the respective states when the movement has exceeded a predetermined movement threshold. This way, detection of a loose wheel nut may be further improved.

[0086] One of the hub marker portion and the nut marker portion may be movably attached to the rim cover or the nut piece, respectively, via the transmission mechanism, such that the respective marker portion is movable with respect to the rim cover or the nut piece, respectively.

[0087] In an embodiment, the transmission mechanism is provided with a transmission ratio larger than 1:1 , such that a movement of the visual marker transmitted by the transmission mechanism is larger than a movement of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover. It has been found that a transmission ratio larger than 1 :1 may be advantageous as it allows to detect loosening of the wheel nut relatively early compared to the prior art.

[0088] The transmission ratio may be a rotation ratio, for example a rotation angle of the wheel nut with respect to a rotation angle of the visual indicator. The transmission ratio may be at least 1 :2, for example 1 :3. It has been found that these transmission ratios are advantageous as they enable relatively reliable detection of loosening, while keeping forces on the transmission mechanism relatively low.

[0089] In an embodiment, the transmission mechanism comprises a planetary gear transmission. It has been found that integrating a planetary gear transmission inside the position indicator is possible and may provide a relatively reliable indication. In a further embodiment, the transmission mechanism comprises a central gear, planet gears, and a ring gear, and wherein the rim cover, the nut piece and the indicator are each rigidly connected to an individual one of the gears. For example, the visual marker may be connected to the central gear, the rim cover to at least one planetary gear, and the nut piece to the ring gear. It has been found that this way, a compact construction may be provided that can be housed in a housing having the shape of a conventional wheel nut cap, such that the indicator may be installed using the same tools as conventional rim covers and wheel nut caps.

[0090] According to another aspect, the invention provides a position indicator assembly, comprising: a position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the nut piece and / or the cap piece is provided with a connection element that releasably connects the nut piece and / or the cap piece to the rim cover; and a removal tool configured to be arranged in a removal position on the nut piece and / or the cap piece, respectively, to unconnect the respective nut piece and / or cap piece from the rim cover.

[0091] It has been found that the removal tool may allow for easier removal of the nut piece and / or the cap piece from the rim cover, especially when the connection element comprises a snap fit connection, such that the pieces can be reused more often.

[0092] According to another aspect, the invention provides a wheel comprising a wheel rim, wheel bolts, wheel nuts, and a position indicator according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein. One or more of the bolts of the wheel hub may be provided with the an anchoring element, for example all of the bolts of the wheel hub.

[0093] According to another aspect, the invention provides a vehicle comprising the wheel hub according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0094] One or more of the wheel hubs of the vehicle may be provided with a position indicators. For example, the most important wheels, such as non-redundant axes, may be provided with the position indicator, e.g. at least two wheel hubs, such as at least four wheel hubs of the vehicle.

[0095] The wheel hub and vehicle may achieve similar advantages as for embodiments of the position indicator as described hereinabove. Further, the vehicle and the wheel hub may encompass embodiments of the position indicator as described hereinabove.

[0096] In an embodiment further comprising a wheel monitoring system, e.g. a tyre-pressure monitoring system, the wheel monitoring system is provided in between two adjacent bolt mounting positions. The rim cover may comprise a storage space for such systems.

[0097] According to another aspect, the invention provides a method for arranging a position indicator according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein on a wheel rim, comprising the steps of: - optionally, removing wheel nuts from wheel bolts of the wheel rim;

[0098] - arranging a rim cover provided with bolt mounting positions in a covering position on the wheel rim, e.g. with the bolt mounting positions aligned with respective wheel bolts of the wheel rim, providing the wheel nuts on the respective wheel bolts.

[0099] The method may be performed using any embodiment of the position indicator as disclosed herein and may thereby achieve similar advantages.

[0100] In an embodiment of the method, by providing at least one of the wheel nuts on a respective wheel bolt, an anchoring element of the position indicator is clamped between the wheel nut and the wheel hub, for example be clamped between the wheel nut and the wheel rim provided on the wheel hub.

[0101] In an embodiment, the method comprises the step of driving a vehicle on which the rim cover and nut piece are provided, and the initial position of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover is indicated during the step of driving the vehicle. Upon loosening of the wheel nut, the warning state may be indicated during driving. The position indicator may thus provide position indication not only during standstill, but also during driving the vehicle.

[0102] In an embodiment, the steps of providing he rim cover and the nut piece are performed without alignment of the visual marker with respect to an external reference, such as a marking or adjacent pointer. In contrast with the prior art, the nut piece may need to be aligned with the respective nut only and indication is provided by a state change of the indicator due to relative movement of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover.

[0103] In an embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of providing a cap piece over the nut piece. The step may comprise covering a portion of the visual marker, such as the nut marker portion, to block visibility of the respective portion from users; wherein the portion is moved with respect to the cap piece, e.g. with a transmission mechanism, to be uncovered at least partially upon loosening of the wheel nut.

[0104] Brief description of drawings

[0105] Further characteristics of the invention will be explained below, with reference to embodiments, which are displayed in the appended drawings, in which:

[0106] Figure 1A schematically depicts an embodiment of a position indicator as seen in a top perspective view; Figure 1 B schematically depicts a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 1A; Figure 2 schematically depicts a position indicator according to another embodiment of the invention, in perspective view, wherein a removal tool is provided;

[0107] Figure 3 schematically depicts a cross section of Fig. 2 along line A-A; Figure 4A schematically depicts a cross section of Fig. 2 along line B-B; Figure 4B schematically depicts the cross section of Fig. 4A in exploded view; Figure 5 schematically depicts a cross section of Fig. 2 along line C-C; Figure 6 schematically depicts an embodiment of a cap piece;

[0108] Figure 7A schematically depicts the position indicator as provided on a wheel, wherein the visual indicators are arranged in the initial state; Figure 7B schematically depicts the position indicator of Fig. 7A, wherein one of the visual indicators is arranged in the warning state; Figure 8A schematically depicts a visual indicator according to another embodiment of the invention arranged in the initial state; Figure 8B schematically depicts the visual indicator of Fig. 8A, when arranged in the warning state; Figure 9A schematically depicts a perspective view of a nut piece and visual indicator provided in a top cap according to another embodiment of the invention; and Figure 9B schematically depicts the embodiment of Fig 9A, wherein the visual indicator is arranged in the warning state.

[0109] Throughout the figures, the same reference numerals are used to refer to corresponding components or to components that have a corresponding function.

[0110] Detailed description of drawings

[0111] Figure 1A schematically depicts a position indicator 1 for indicating a rotation of a wheel nut with respect to a wheel rim 96 fixed to a wheel hub 97 via wheel bolts. The position indicator comprises a rim cover 2 provided with nut mounting positions 20. The rim cover 2 is arrangeable in a covering position on a wheel rim 96, wherein the nut mounting positions 20 are spaced with respect to each other to be aligned with respective wheel bolts of the wheel.

[0112] The rim cover 2 comprises an anchoring element 3 provided at at least one of the nut mounting positions 20 for anchoring the rim cover 2 to the wheel hub 97 upon arrangement of the rim cover 2 in the covering position.

[0113] The position indicator 1 is sized to be provided on a circular rim 96, and configured to couple with a wheel of a car, truck, tractor or bus. The rim cover 2 has a partially circular shape, in particular a ring-shape, i.e. a ring sized and configured to couple with a wheel rim of a vehicle. The rim cover 2 comprises a relatively a stiff material in particular a metal or a polymer. The rim cover 2 is configured to extend between two or more bolts when arranged in the covering position, in particular along all wheel bolts of the wheel.

[0114] The position indicator 1 comprises a nut piece 4 comprising a nut engagement surface 49 to, upon pressing the nut piece 4 on a wheel nut, engage with the wheel nut to rotatably fix the nut piece with respect to the nut; and a visual marker 5 for indicating loosening of the wheel nut, comprising a rim cover marker portion 51 arranged on the rim cover 2 and a distinct nut marker portion 52 that is arranged on the nut piece 4, wherein the rim cover marker portion 51 and the nut marker portion 4 are movable with respect to each other upon movement of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover, between an initial state, in which the hub marker portion 51 and the nut marker portion 52 are aligned with each other and in which a tightened position of the wheel nut is indicated, and a warning state, in which the hub marker portion 51 and the nut marker portion 52 are unaligned such that loosening of the wheel nut is indicated.

[0115] The position indicator 1 comprises multiple nut pieces 4, such that each of the nut mounting positions 20 is provided with a nut piece. The nut mounting positions are spaced with respect to each other to be aligned with respective wheel bolts of a wheel rim in the covering position, and comprise a recess for accommodating a bolt and / or a nut.

[0116] The anchoring elements 3 are each provided near and / or at the respective nut mounting positions 20, such that upon arrangement of the rim cover 2 in the covering position on the wheel hub, a nut can be provided on a wheel bolt at the at least one of the nut mounting positions to clamp the anchoring element 3 with the surface 32 between the nut and the wheel hub and thereby anchor the position indicator to the rim.

[0117] Multiple nut pieces 4 separable from the rim cover 2, in this embodiment all nut pieces, including those that are arranged at the nut mounting positions 20 at or nearby the anchoring elements 3. A cap piece 6 is may be provided over each nut piece 4, wherein the cap piece is provided with a snap fit connection via protruding ring 60 and snap fit connection element 21. Other connections may be used, such as a bayonet connection, magnetic connection or a connection via retractable pins. Additionally, a second snap fit connection may be provided on the cap piece 6 and / or on the nut piece 4 to connect the cap piece and the nut piece to each other. This way, the nut piece and the cap piece may be configured to be pre-assembled to each other, in particular pre-assembled before connecting the nut piece and / or the cap piece to the rim cover. Also, the nut piece and the cap piece would then be removable as a single assembly.

[0118] The nut piece 4 is configured to, upon pressing the nut piece on a wheel nut, cover the anchoring element and the cap piece is configured to, upon arranging the cap piece over the anchoring element.

[0119] The nut piece 4 and / or the cap piece 6 may be provided with a sloped sliding surface configured to cooperate with the cap piece 6 or the nut piece 4, respectively, to provide a rotation movement to the nut piece about the longitudinal axis R of the hollow interior when the nut piece is pressed on a nut. This way, when the nut piece 4 is not aligned with the nut, the sliding surface is configured to rotate the nut piece 4 about the longitudinal axis R upon the application of a pushing force to the cap piece 6, until the nut piece 4 is aligned with the nut and can be pushed further over the nut. Alignment elements 61 may be provided for aligning the nut piece and / or the cap piece 6 with respect to the rim cover 2.

[0120] The anchoring element 3 is configured to anchor the rim cover, when the respective bolt recesses 33 are arranged over respective bolts, such that rotation thereof with respect to the wheel and / or wheel hub is prevented. Further, the anchoring element 3 comprises a clamping surface arranged to be clamped between a wheel nut and the wheel hub and is therewith configured to anchor upon provision of a wheel nut, such that the clamping surface 32 is clamped between the wheel nut and the wheel rim and / or the wheel hub. Additionally or alternatively, the rim cover may comprise a friction surface, snap fingers to snap around the screw thread of the bolt and / or other anchoring elements.

[0121] The anchoring element is configured to engage with the wheel sufficiently such that rotation of the rim cover with respect to the hub is avoided. The anchoring element 3 has a shape comprising a recess 33 that substantially corresponds to a wheel bolt, in particular that has inner dimensions that are substantially equal to and / or larger than the outer dimensions of the wheel bolt. T

[0122] The nut pieces 4 are each configured to engage with the wheel nut such that rotation of the nut with respect to the nut piece is avoided, for example by means of a shape lock. Additionally or alternatively, the nut piece may clamp the nut or engage therewith in another way. The nut engagement surface 40 is provided with an inner contour that substantially corresponds to the outer contour of a wheel nut, and in particular has inner dimensions that are substantially equal to the outer dimensions of the wheel nut. The inner dimensions may be slightly smaller than the outer dimensions of the wheel nut, and / or the inner dimensions may vary, e.g. be tapered, to, upon pressing the nut piece on the nut, induce a relatively large friction force with the nut and to interlock with the nut by means of the friction force.

[0123] The nut pieces 4 are free to have rotational movement to rotate with the nut, whereby movement from the nut is limited by the cap piece 6. Additionally or alternatively, the nut pieces 4 may be configured to engage with the rim via a connection element.

[0124] The nut engagement surface 40 may have indents corresponding to one more wheel nut sizes, e.g. have an inner contour corresponding to one or more wheel nut sizes.

[0125] In use, the nut pieces 4 are arranged on a wheel nut such that the indicators 5 are each in the initial state. As the visual marker may move between the initial state and the warning state, loosening of the wheel nut may be apparent by the state change of the visual marker caused by relative rotation between the nut piece and the rim cover, as seen in Figs 7A, 7B.

[0126] The nut pieces each comprise a first open end 43, a second end 44 and a wall section that extends between the first open end 43 and the second end 44 and that delimits a hollow interior, wherein the wall section is provided with the nut engagement surface 40 in the hollow interior. The rim cover 2 is configured to engage the first open end 43 of the nut piece 4 via abutment surface 22. The first open end may be releasably connectable to the rim cover. Each nut piece 4 is rotatable with respect to the rim cover 2 around a rotation axis R, in particular the rotation axis is the longitudinal axis of the hollow interior and is defined by a longitudinal axis of the respective bolt at the nut mounting position 20.

[0127] The anchoring element 3 is integral with the rim cover 2, in particular the anchoring element is co-moulded with the rim cover 2. The rim cover defines a longitudinal plane L, and the anchoring element 3 comprises a first section 31 that extends away from the plane, in particular transverse thereto, and a second section 32 that extends substantially parallel to the plane, in particular parallel. The nut mounting positions 20 each comprise a bolt recess 33 and each bolt recess 33 is arranged in the respective second section 32.

[0128] The rim cover 2 and the nut piece 4 comprise a first material, in particular a polymer, and the second section of the anchoring element 3 is made of a second material, in particular a metal, having a higher compressive strength than the first material.

[0129] The indicator 1 further comprises a limitation mechanism formed by protrusion 41 on the cap piece 6 and a counter protrusion on the nut piece 4 functionally arranged between the rim cover and the nut piece, and configured to limit movement of the respective nut piece with respect to the rim cover 2 when movement exceeds a threshold value, in particular when the visual marker has moved into the warning state. The position of the protrusion 41 and / or the counter protrusion with respect to the visual marker has been predetermined to achieve this. Additionally, the protrusion 41 and / or the counter protrusion may be formed as a snap fit connection, such that upon touching of the respective protrusion and counter protrusion the nut piece 4 is locked with respect to the rim cover 2 and cannot rotate any further. As such, further loosening of the nut 4 may be prevented.

[0130] The position indicator comprises a cap piece 6 that is arrangeable over the nut piece 4 and is configured to engage with the rim cover 2. The cap piece 6 is separable from and releasably connectable to the rim cover 2 via a snap fit connection formed by ridge 60 on the cap piece and snap finger 21 on the rim cover 2. The rim cover marker portion 52 is provided on the cap piece 6. The cap piece is provided with ridges 62 and the rim cover 2 is shaped to interlock with the ridges, such may be connectable to the rim cover such that no movement between the cap piece 6 and the rim cover 2 is possible. The cap piece may limit chances of the nut pieces moving away from the nut and thereby provide additional safety.

[0131] The cap piece 6 may be configured to at least partially shield the nut piece 4 from the environment. The cap piece 6 may comprise a first open end 63, a second end 64 and a wall section that extends between the first open end and the second end and that delimits a hollow interior, wherein the nut piece 4 is configured to be confined in the hollow interior of the cap piece 6. The hub marker portion 51 is provided on the cap piece 6. It has been found that such position is advantageous for visibility of the visual marker. The cap piece 6 is releasably connectable to engage the rim cover 2 with the first open end 63, and is provided with the hub marker portion at the second end 64, but may additionally and / or alternatively be provided with the hub marker portion 51 at another location, such as at the wall section as depicted in Figs. 9A and 9B. The cap piece 61 comprises an alignment mark 61, such that upon arranging on the hub cover 2, in the initial state, alignment of the hub marker portion 51 and the nut marker portion 52 is such that the nut marker portion 52 is covered by the cap piece 6, such that visibility of the nut marker portion 52 in the warning state is limited and the cap piece 6 may be configured not to cover the nut marker portion 52 in the warning state as depicted in nut mounting position 20’ in Fig. 1A., wherein the nut marker portion 51 is visible in the warning state.

[0132] In some embodiments, the position indicator may comprise a transmission mechanism arranged between the visual indicator and the nut piece and / or the hub cover, respectively. The visual marker is then movably attached to the rim cover and / or the nut piece, and the transmission mechanism is operatively connected to the nut piece and / or the rim cover, respectively, to transmit relative movement between the nut piece and the rim cover to the visual marker to move the visual marker from the initial state to the warning state to indicate loosening of the wheel nut.

[0133] Turning to Fig. 5, a position indicator assembly is depicted, comprising a connection element 21, 60 that releasably connects the cap piece 6 to the rim cover (2); and a removal tool 7. In Fig. 5, the removal tool 7 is arranged in a removal position on the connection element 21 to unconnect the respective cap piece from the rim cover by pushing the snap finger 21 of the hub cover 2 away from the ridge 60 of the cap piece. The dimensions of the tool 7 may be such that the cap piece 7 is held within the tool 7 by friction, and / or additional holding means may be provided, such as a glue, magnet and / or a structured surface.

[0134] The cap piece 6 is provided with a viewing opening 65 for viewing the nut marker portion 51 in the warning state. The viewing opening 65 may be covered with a transparent material. The viewing opening 65 may form the hub cover marking portion as depicted in Figs 8A-9B. In addition or alternative to an opening, the cap piece 6 may comprise a slot, and the visual marker comprises an outer end arranged at the slot at the rim cover marker portion 51 and / or nut marker portion 52, wherein movement of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover results in pushing the outer end of the respective portion through the slot to protrude through the cap piece in the warning state. The slot may comprise an entrance ramp to facilitate movement of the outer end through the slot. The part of the visual marker protruding through the slot may be uncovered by the cap piece, wherein the part of the visual marker not protruding through the slot may be covered by the cap piece. As such, indication of loosening may be provided by simply having the outer end protruding through the slot as visible portion.

[0135] In the embodiment of Fig. 1A, the rim cover marker portion 51 and the nut marker portion 52 are each provided with a different surface appearance, such as different colour and / or texture. In particular the hub marker portion has an outer appearance similar to the rim cover and / or nut piece, and the nut marker portion has an outer appearance contrasting with the respective rim cover and / or nut piece.

[0136] The nut piece 4 is provided with multiple nut marker portions 51 and the rim cover 2 is provided with multiple rim cover marker portions 52, which have a corresponding surface area, such that the hub marker portion and nut marker portions can be hidden behind each other in the initial state.

[0137] In use, wheel nuts may be removed from wheel bolts of the wheel hub upon which the rim cover 2 can be arranged in the covering position. Subsequently, nuts are provided on the bolts to clamp the anchoring elements. The nut pieces are then provided on the nuts, and cap pieces 6 are provided over the nut pieces 4 and connected with the hub cover via the snap fit connection element.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Position indicator (1) for indicating a rotation of a wheel nut with respect to a wheel rim fixed with wheel bolts, comprising: a rim cover (2) provided with nut mounting positions (20) and arrangeable in a covering position on a wheel rim, e.g. wherein the nut mounting positions are spaced with respect to each other to be aligned with respective wheel bolts of the wheel in the covering position, wherein the rim cover comprises an anchoring element (3) provided at at least one of the nut mounting positions (20) for anchoring the rim cover to the wheel hub upon arrangement of the rim cover in the covering position; a nut piece (4) comprising a nut engagement surface to, upon pressing the nut piece on a wheel nut, engage with the wheel nut to rotatably fix the nut piece with respect to the nut; and a visual marker (5) for indicating loosening of the wheel nut, wherein the visual marker (5) comprises a rim cover marker portion (51) arranged on the rim cover and a distinct nut marker portion (52) that is arranged on the nut piece, wherein the rim cover marker portion and the nut marker portion are movable with respect to each other upon movement of the nut piece with respect to the rim cover, between: an initial state, in which the hub marker portion and the nut marker portion are aligned with each other and in which a tightened position of the wheel nut is indicated, and a warning state, in which the hub marker portion and the nut marker portion are unaligned such that loosening of the wheel nut is indicated.

2. Position indicator according to claim 1, wherein the nut piece (4) is separable from the rim cover (2).

3. Position indicator according to claim 2, wherein the nut piece is configured to, upon pressing the nut piece on a wheel nut, cover the anchoring element.

4. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a cap piece (6) that is arrangeable over the nut piece (4) and configured to engage with the nut piece and / or the rim cover (2).

5. Position indicator according to the preceding claim, wherein the nut piece (4) and the cap piece (6) are configured to be pre-assembled to each other, for example pre-assembled before connecting the nut piece and / or the cap piece to the rim cover6. Position indicator according to any of the claims 4-5, wherein the cap piece (6) is configured to, upon arranging the cap piece over the nut piece, cover the anchoring element.

7. Position indicator according to any of the claims 4-6, wherein the nut piece (4) and / or the cap piece (6) is provided with a sloped sliding surface configured to cooperate with the cap piece or the nut piece, respectively, to provide a rotation movement to the nut piece about the longitudinal axis of the hollow interior when the nut piece is pressed against a nut.

8. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anchoring element (3) comprises a clamping surface (30) arranged to be clamped between a wheel nut and the wheel rim, such that the nut piece can be provided on a wheel nut after anchoring the position indicator by providing the wheel nut on a respective wheel bolt.

9. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anchoring element (3) is integral with the rim cover (2).

10. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the rim cover defines a longitudinal plane (L), and wherein the anchoring element (3) comprises a first section (31) that extends away from the plane, for example transverse thereto, and a second section (32) that extends substantially parallel to the plane.

11. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the nut mounting positions (20) each comprise a bolt recesses (33), e.g. wherein the bolt recess is arranged in the second section (32).

12. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the rim cover (2) and / or the nut piece (4) comprises a first material, e.g. a polymer, wherein anchoring element (3) comprises a second material, e.g. wherein the second material has a higher compressive strength than the first material.

13. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a limitation mechanism (41) functionally arranged between the rim cover (2) and the nut piece (4), and configured to limit movement of the respective nut piece with respect to the rim cover.

14. Position indicator according to the preceding claim, wherein the limitation mechanism is configured to limit further movement of the nut piece when the visual marker is arranged in the warning state.

15. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims wherein the rim cover marker portion (52) is provided on the cap piece.

16. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cap piece (6) is arranged to at least partially cover the nut marker portion (52) and / or the rim cover marker portion of the visual marker (5) in the initial state.

17. Position indicator according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a transmission mechanism distinct from the rim cover, the nut piece and the visual marker, wherein the visual marker is movably attached to the rim cover and / or the nut piece, and the transmission mechanism is operatively connected to the nut piece and / or the rim cover, respectively, to transmit relative movement between the nut piece and the rim cover to the visual marker to move the visual marker from the initial state to the warning state to indicate loosening of the wheel nut.

18. Position indicator assembly, comprising: a position indicator (1) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a connection element (21) that releasably connects the nut piece (4) and / or the cap piece (6) to the rim cover (2); and a removal tool (7) configured to be arranged in a removal position on the connection element to unconnect, respectively, the respective nut piece and / or cap piece from the rim cover.

19. Wheel comprising a wheel hub, wheel bolts, wheel nuts, and a position indicator according to any of the claims 1-17.

20. Wheel according to the preceding claim, further comprising a wheel monitoring system, e.g. a tyre-pressure monitoring system, wherein the wheel monitoring system is provided in between two adjacent nut mounting positions.

21. Method for arranging a position indicator according to any of the claims 1-17 on a wheel hub, comprising the steps of:- optionally, removing wheel nuts from wheel bolts of the wheel hub and / or, optionally, arranging a wheel rim on the wheel hub;- arranging a rim cover provided with nut mounting positions in a covering position on the wheel rim, e.g. with the nut mounting positions aligned with respective wheel bolts of the wheel hub; and- providing the wheel nuts on the respective wheel bolts.

22. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein by providing at least one of the wheel nuts on a respective wheel bolt, an anchoring element of the position indicator is clamped between the wheel nut and the wheel hub.

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