Articulating Tire Valve Stem Tool for Perpendicular TPMS Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current valve stem removal tools struggle with the new TPMS valve design, requiring excessive force, causing damage to the valve, wheel rim, and tools due to non-perpendicular installation/removal, and are cumbersome to use.
Innovation Solution
An articulating tire valve stem tool with a body, linkage, and contact member that allows for perpendicular installation/removal, using a fulcrum point to reduce force and prevent damage, with a locking feature for secure attachment and ergonomic design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If current valve install-removal tools are used, then the valve can be installed and removed, but extensive force is required which increases the risk of damage to the valve, wheel, and tool
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates an articulating assembly with components that can rotate around one or more axes, allowing the valve to be pulled perpendicular to the wheel rim during installation and removal. This dynamic adjustment optimizes the force application angle, reducing the extensive force previously required and minimizing damage risk to the valve, wheel, and tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact member is positioned and oriented at specific angles relative to the wheel rim to optimize mechanical advantage. By changing the geometric parameters of the tool's configuration, the force required for valve installation and removal is reduced while maintaining reliability and preventing damage.
2Ease of operation
If current valve install-removal tools are used, then the valve can be installed and removed, but the tools are un-ergonomic and cumbersome due to the amount of force required
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating assembly allows the tool to adapt its configuration during operation, enabling the user to apply force more efficiently. The rotating components facilitate smooth motion and reduce the effort needed to install and remove valves, significantly improving ergonomics and reducing cumbersomeness.
3Productivity
If the valve is not pulled perpendicular to the rim hole, then installation and removal can proceed, but the force required increases dramatically
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating assembly with rotating components enables the valve to be pulled perpendicular to the wheel rim, optimizing the force application angle. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the force is applied in the most efficient direction, dramatically reducing the force required and improving installation and removal efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact member's angular position is optimized to ensure the valve is pulled perpendicular to the rim hole. By controlling this geometric parameter, the tool achieves maximum mechanical advantage, reducing the force required and improving overall productivity.
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
Reduces the force required for installation/removal, minimizes damage to the valve and wheel rim, and enhances ergonomics, providing a durable and user-friendly solution.
Implementation Method 1
acting as a fulcrum to increase mechanical advantage during the use of the articulating tire valve install-removal tool
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating tire valve install-removal tool and related methods for use. The articulating tire valve install-removal tool has a body comprising an outer perimeter, an inner recess, a threaded member, a linkage and a contact member. The articulating tire valve install-removal tool components are connected to each other and secured within the body so one or more components can rotate around one or more axes. Together these components facilitate in the valve being installed and removed perpendicular or generally perpendicular to the valve hole on the wheel.