Adjustable Weighted Wheel Assembly for RC Rock Crawlers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel assemblies for RC rock crawling vehicles require time-consuming and complex processes to attach and adjust weights, making it difficult to maintain stability on uneven terrain.
Innovation Solution
A wheel assembly with removable weights that utilize sockets and fasteners, such as screws, O-rings, or spring-loaded clips, to securely attach weights to the wheel rim, allowing for easy adjustment and addition of weights without disassembling the tire, and an adjustable central insert to fine-tune the wheel-to-wheel distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If weights are attached to the outer periphery of the wheel rim using traditional methods (tape), then the vehicle stability is improved, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly is segmented into modular components: the wheel rim with integrated sockets, removable weights, and fasteners. This segmentation allows weights to be independently attached and adjusted without affecting the entire wheel assembly, enabling quick weight changes by simply removing and reattaching individual weights through the socket interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Sockets and fasteners serve as intermediary components between the wheel rim and weights. The sockets provide standardized attachment points on the wheel rim, while fasteners secure the weights within the sockets. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for direct adhesion methods like tape, enabling tool-free or quick-fastener attachment and adjustment of weights.
2Ease of manufacture
If weights are crudely attached to the rim with tape, then the attachment process is simple, but the weights are difficult to adjust or remove
Solution Approach 1:
The weight attachment system transitions from a static, permanent adhesion (tape) to a dynamic, adjustable connection using removable fasteners. The fasteners can be quickly engaged and disengaged, allowing the weight configuration to be dynamically changed based on different operating conditions, terrain requirements, or performance needs without complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket and fastener system serves multiple functions: it provides secure weight attachment, enables quick weight removal and reattachment, allows weight position adjustment, and facilitates weight configuration changes. This universal interface design replaces the single-function tape attachment, providing both simplicity and adaptability simultaneously.
3Reliability
If the tire and foam tire supports are removed to add weights, then the weights can be properly attached, but the process becomes involved and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The sockets are pre-integrated into the wheel rim structure during manufacturing, positioned at optimal locations for weight attachment. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for drilling, tapping, or modifying the wheel rim in the field, and allows weights to be directly attached to the pre-positioned sockets without removing the tire or foam supports, simplifying the entire attachment process.
4Reliability
If traditional weight attachment methods are used, then the weights are securely attached, but changing the number or types of weights requires complete removal and re-taping
Solution Approach 1:
The weight system is segmented into independent, interchangeable components that can be individually adjusted. Each weight can be removed and replaced separately through its own socket, allowing rapid reconfiguration of the weight system by simply changing individual weights rather than removing and reattaching the entire weight set, significantly improving productivity in weight configuration changes.
Data Source
AI summary
The application discloses a wheel assembly comprising a wheel comprising a main body, a substantially cylindrical wall, a front hub face comprising a central portion connecting a hub to an outer rim, wherein the front hub face comprises a socket for receiving a removable weight, wherein the socket or the weight is configured with a stop for preventing the weight from dislodging from the socket; a back face comprising a back central portion connecting the hub to the back outer rim; and the wheel assembly comprising at least one fastener for securing the weigh in the socket on the main body of the wheel.