Central Expander Wheel Lock for Universal Wheel Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel lock systems are not universally compatible with various car makes and models, making them vulnerable to unauthorized removal, as they require substantial adjustments and are easily removable by experienced thieves.
Innovation Solution
A universal comprehensive locking system for car wheels featuring a main module with a centre bolt, expander, and locking mechanism that adjusts axially to securely engage with the wheel and surrounding structure, using a blocking means to cover nuts or bolts and prevent access, and a locking mechanism that secures the centre bolt in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wheel lock system is designed to be universally compatible with various car makes and models, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need to accommodate different wheel sizes and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The expander is designed as a dynamic component that can radially expand and contract to adapt to different wheel bore sizes. When the center bolt is rotated axially, it drives the expander to expand radially outward to engage with the wheel bore, providing a secure fit for various wheel configurations without requiring multiple specialized devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the radial dimension parameter of the expander through axial movement of the center bolt. By rotating the center bolt along its axis, the expander's radial expansion is controlled, allowing the same device to accommodate different wheel bore diameters and configurations
2Ease of manufacture
If a wheel lock system uses a simple design with fewer parts, then ease of manufacture is improved, but reliability decreases due to insufficient security against experienced thieves
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel lock system is divided into distinct functional segments: the center bolt for axial adjustment, the expander for radial engagement, and the locking mechanism for securing. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with simple processes while collectively providing robust security that resists removal by experienced thieves
3Adaptability or versatility
If a wheel lock system requires substantial adjustments to fit different wheels, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to the time and effort required for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The expander is pre-configured with a radial expansion capability that is activated simply by rotating the center bolt axially. This preliminary design allows the system to adapt to different wheel configurations through a single rotational action rather than requiring multiple adjustment steps, substantially improving ease of operation while maintaining universal compatibility
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 prevents unauthorized removal of car wheels by providing a secure fit for most wheel types without the need for extensive adjustments, enhancing security and compatibility across different vehicle models.
Implementation Method 1
The axial movement of the centre bolt causes the expander, which is adapted to be operably connected to the centre bolt, to expand at least in a radial direction of the wheel to engage with the wheel and thereby secure the module to the wheel
Data Source
AI summary
A main module adapted to be attached to a wheel of a vehicle is disclosed, comprising a centre bolt, an expander and a locking mechanism. The main module is configured to be fitted with a blocking means configured to cover nuts or bolts of the wheel. The centre bolt is adapted to be connected to the main module by means of a threading such that the axial position of the centre bolt, as seen along the axis of rotation of the wheel, can be adjusted by rotating the centre bolt relative the main module, and such that the expander expands in a radial direction of the wheel as the axial position of the centre bolt is adjusted. The expander is thereby allowed to engage with the wheel to secure the module to said wheel.