Adjustable Wheel Changing Device for Motorcycle Solo Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current motorcycle tire-changing methods require two mechanics to align and secure the new wheel, leading to inefficiency and potential damage due to awkward handling, and are not easily adaptable for solo operation or different wheel sizes.
Innovation Solution
A portable, adjustable wheel-changing device with a rolling carriage and foldable swingarms that automatically aligns and secures the new wheel, allowing for solo operation and accommodating various wheel sizes through adjustable platforms and a lift mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If two mechanics manually align and secure the new wheel, then the wheel can be installed, but the process is inefficient and may cause damage due to awkward handling
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables a single mechanic to independently perform wheel alignment and installation without requiring assistance from a second mechanic. The self-aligning mechanism with adjustable platforms and clamps allows the wheel to be automatically positioned and secured, eliminating the need for manual coordination between multiple operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel installation process is divided into distinct functional components: the rolling carriage for transport, adjustable platforms for positioning, clamps for securing, and a lift mechanism for height adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, improving overall productivity while reducing operational complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-structure wheel tool is used, then alignment precision can be maintained, but the device cannot accommodate different wheel sizes and is difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs dynamic, adjustable components including platforms that can be moved and repositioned, clamps with adjustable positioning, and a lift mechanism that adjusts height. These dynamic elements allow the device to adapt to various wheel sizes and configurations while maintaining alignment precision, resolving the contradiction between versatility and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rolling carriage design with adjustable platforms and clamps creates a universal device that can accommodate different wheel sizes, types, and vehicle configurations. The same basic structure serves multiple functions: transport, positioning, alignment, and securing, thereby reducing overall device complexity while increasing adaptability.
3Reliability
If the wheel is manually held and aligned by mechanics, then no additional equipment is needed, but the process slows down replacement and may damage the wheel or axle
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary alignment and positioning actions before the actual wheel installation. The adjustable platforms and clamps pre-position the wheel in the correct orientation, and the lift mechanism pre-adjusts the height, eliminating the need for manual holding and alignment during installation. This preliminary preparation ensures safe installation while reducing the time required for the actual replacement process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quick, efficient, and safe tire changes with reduced manpower, ensuring proper alignment and stabilization of the wheel, and can be easily transported and stored.
Implementation Method 1
a rolling carriage that can be easily rolled around any environment
Implementation Method 2
a jack mechanism that raises or lowers the carriage assembly to a desired height
Implementation Method 3
first and second swingarms, each having a knuckle joint
Data Source
AI summary
A device is provided for changing a wheel of a vehicle comprising a carriage assembly including two platform elements running longitudinally with one another and substantially parallel. First and second swingarms are connected to respective platform elements. The swingarms are rotatably positionable at a desired height above the carriage. A lift mechanism selectively raises or lowers the carriage during use. A tow bar allows the carriage to be pushed or pulled on wheels mounted to the carriage. A method of the invention includes mounting the wheel on the platform elements, raising free ends of the swingarms to a desired height so a knock out bar may be placed through a hub of the wheel, operating the lift mechanism to raise the wheel to a desired height, and aligning the wheel with the vehicle so the wheel may be secured to the vehicle.