Axle-Driven Tire Inflation Pump via Spindle Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire inflation systems lack an efficient mechanism to automatically maintain optimal tire pressure, particularly in vehicles with axle-driven configurations, where rotational motion can complicate the operation of pumps and gas supply systems.
Innovation Solution
A tire inflation system that includes a spindle, a wheel end assembly, a pump actuating member, a pump, and a conduit, where the pump is actuated by rotation about the spindle axis, generating pressurized gas which is supplied through a conduit to the tire, ensuring consistent pressure maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional tire inflation system is used in axle-driven configurations, then the pump and gas supply system can be installed, but the rotational motion complicates the operation and increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The pump actuating member is integrated with the spindle structure, merging the rotational support function with the pump actuation function. The pump actuating member extends around the spindle and is fixedly disposed on it, combining two functional elements into one integrated assembly that simplifies the overall system while enabling automatic pump operation through spindle rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spindle serves multiple functions: it supports the wheel end assembly rotation, provides structural support for the pump actuating member, and directly actuates the pump through the integrated actuating member. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the system architecture.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the pump is actuated by rotational motion, then energy consumption is reduced, but the pump must be precisely positioned relative to the rotating component
Solution Approach 1:
The pump actuating member is nested around the spindle in a concentric arrangement, with the pump positioned proximate to the hub or wheel end assembly. This nested configuration provides natural alignment through concentric geometry, reducing the need for complex positioning mechanisms while enabling efficient rotational actuation.
3Device complexity
If the pump actuating member is fixedly disposed on the spindle, then the system structure is simplified, but the pump must rotate with the hub or wheel end assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The pump operates through periodic reciprocating motion driven by the rotation of the hub or wheel end assembly. As the pump rotates with the hub, the pump actuating member converts this rotational motion into periodic reciprocating strokes, delivering pressurized gas in controlled pulses rather than continuous flow, which is suitable for tire inflation applications.
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
The system effectively maintains optimal tire pressure by utilizing the rotational motion of the axle shaft to actuate the pump, providing a reliable and efficient means of supplying pressurized gas, reducing energy consumption and parasitic losses.
Implementation Method 1
The pump actuating member may actuate the pump when the pump rotates about the axis, thereby causing the pump to output a pressurized gas
Implementation Method 2
causing the pump to output a pressurized gas
Data Source
AI summary
A tire inflation system having a spindle, a pump actuating member, and a pump. The pump actuating member may actuate the pump when the pump rotates about an axis, thereby causing the pump to output a pressurized gas.