Brake Drum Hub Alignment Using a Radial Spring Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brake drum systems face challenges in correctly aligning the brake drum with the wheel end hub, leading to eccentric drum rotation and steering wheel vibrations during braking.
Innovation Solution
A brake drum system that includes a substantially circular spring element clamped between the brake drum and the wheel end hub, providing a radially directed spring force for concentric alignment, with various configurations such as open or closed rings, discrete portions, and U-shaped profiles to enhance alignment efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a bevelled ring is used to align the brake drum with the wheel end hub, then concentric alignment is achieved, but the alignment process becomes more complex and requires adequate nut tightening
Solution Approach 1:
A spring element is introduced as an intermediary component between the brake drum and the wheel end hub. This spring element automatically provides radial alignment force when clamped between the two components, eliminating the need for complex bevelled rings and manual tightening procedures while achieving accurate concentric alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element performs the alignment function automatically through its inherent elastic properties. When clamped between the brake drum and wheel end hub, the spring element self-generates the necessary radial force to maintain concentric alignment without requiring external adjustment or complex mechanical structures.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment procedures are used, then alignment can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is pre-configured with the necessary elastic properties and geometry to automatically provide alignment force. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for time-consuming manual alignment procedures during assembly, as the spring element instantly provides the required radial force when clamped between components.
3Ease of operation
If a simple clamping mechanism is used, then assembly is simplified, but alignment precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element utilizes changes in its elastic parameters (compression and expansion) to provide alignment force. When clamped between the brake drum and wheel end hub, the spring element compresses radially and then expands to push the brake drum into correct alignment, combining simple clamping with precise alignment through parameter transformation.
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
Simplifies the alignment process, ensuring proper concentric alignment of the brake drum with the wheel end hub, reducing steering wheel vibrations and improving the overall braking experience.
Implementation Method 1
a substantially circular spring element for concentrically aligning the brake drum with the wheel end hub, the spring element being adapted to be clamped between the brake drum and the wheel end hub for providing a radially directed spring force
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A brake drum system (100) for a wheel of a vehicle, comprising a brake drum (110) rotatable with the wheel, the brake drum having an inner surface (124) adapted to receive a friction-generating lining when a driver applies the brakes of the vehicle; a wheel end hub (112) adapted to be located radially between a drive axle of the vehicle and the brake drum (110); and a substantially circular spring element (102) for concentrically aligning the brake drum (110) with the wheel end hub (112), the spring element being adapted to be clamped between the brake drum and the wheel end hub for providing a radially directed spring force, wherein the spring element has an outer surface adapted to be pressed against the brake drum and an inner surface adapted to be pressed against the wheel end hub.