Balancing Weight U-Shaped Spring Rim Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional balancing weights face issues such as high force requirements for installation, risk of rim damage, limited applicability due to precise geometry, and potential overstressing of the retaining spring during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A balancing weight with a U-shaped retaining spring, where one spring leg is fixed to the weight body and the other is used to attach it to the rim flange, featuring a set-back profile to accommodate the rim flange without overstressing the spring, allowing for easy installation and adaptability to various rim shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the balancing weight is struck on the rim with a hammer for installation, then the balancing weight can be securely attached to the rim, but the rim may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining spring acts as an intermediary element between the balancing weight and the rim flange. Instead of directly striking the balancing weight on the rim, the spring leg is inserted into the rim flange groove and then the balancing weight is tapped, which forces the spring leg into the groove. This intermediary mechanism distributes the installation force and secures the attachment without directly damaging the rim.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the balancing weight geometry is precisely adapted to the rim, then the tight fit is improved, but the space for spring leg introduction is reduced and spring overstressing risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The balancing weight geometry is segmented into two distinct zones: a first area with precise rim-adapted geometry for ensuring tight fit and stability, and a second area with a set-back profile that creates clearance for spring leg introduction. This segmentation allows the weight to maintain both tight fit characteristics and assembly ease by separating the functional requirements into different spatial zones.
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 solution enables easy and secure attachment of the balancing weight to vehicle wheels with reduced risk of rim damage and increased applicability across different rim shapes, ensuring a firm hold with minimal effort and stress on the retaining spring.
Implementation Method 1
the second, free spring leg is provided for fastening the balancing weight to the rim flange
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The balancing weight (1) comprises a weight body (2) and U-shaped spring bracket (4,5) which has a locking spring (3). One spring bracket is mounted at the weight body, where a partial area of the weight body of the balancing weight is arranged between the two spring brackets. The spring bracket comprises a released profile (7), where the weight body is made of plastic material or a metal, particularly zinc, lead or steel.