Brake Hub Adapter for Incompatible Disc Assembly Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brake systems face compatibility issues between hubs and brake disc assemblies, requiring the removal and replacement of hubs to accommodate different types of friction rings, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
An adapter system that includes a body with hub and brake disc coupling features, allowing incompatible wheel hubs and brake disc assemblies to be indirectly coupled, enabling the use of different brake discs with existing hubs without the need for hub replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the existing hub is removed and replaced with a new hub to accommodate different friction rings, then compatibility with new brake disc assemblies is improved, but device complexity and maintenance time increase
Solution Approach 1:
An adapter is introduced as an intermediary component between the existing wheel hub and the new brake disc assembly. The adapter includes a hub coupling feature that interfaces with the existing hub and a brake disc coupling feature that interfaces with the new brake disc assembly, enabling compatibility without modifying the original hub
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves multiple functions: it couples the existing hub with incompatible brake disc assemblies, eliminates the need for hub replacement, and enables the use of different types of friction rings. This multi-functional component resolves the compatibility issue while maintaining system simplicity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the existing hub is removed and replaced to use different friction rings, then versatility of brake disc selection is improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter acts as a mediator that allows operators to install different types of brake disc assemblies without the time-consuming process of removing and replacing the entire hub assembly. The adapter can remain installed while only the brake disc assemblies are changed
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is pre-installed on the existing hub, preparing the system in advance to accept different types of brake disc assemblies. This preliminary action eliminates the need for repeated hub removal and installation during maintenance operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If the existing hub is replaced with a new hub to accommodate different brake disc assemblies, then compatibility is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing expensive new hubs to accommodate different brake disc assemblies, the adapter serves as a lower-cost intermediary component. The adapter can be manufactured in different configurations to match various hub and brake disc combinations without requiring costly hub replacements
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as a cost-effective, potentially disposable component that eliminates the need for expensive hub replacements. Even if the adapter has a limited service life, its lower manufacturing cost compared to hubs provides economic benefits
Data Source
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AI summary
An adapter (112) of a brake system includes a body that extends around a portion of an axle of a vehicle system. The body may include an interior portion (164) that is positioned between a center passage of the body and an exterior portion (166) of the body in a radial direction away from the center passage. A hub coupling feature (138) is positioned on the interior portion (164) of the body and may be coupled with a portion of a wheel hub (110) of the vehicle system. A brake disc coupling feature (136) is positioned on the exterior portion (166) of the body and may be coupled with a portion of a brake disc assembly (102). The wheel hub (110) and the brake disc assembly (102) are incompatible such that the wheel hub (110) is prohibited from being directly coupled with the brake disc assembly (102).