Centre-Lock Wheel Hub Extraction Tool Without Shock Loads

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for removing centre-lock wheels are inefficient and cumbersome, particularly due to the use of slide hammers which apply shock loads, are physically demanding, and not suitable for on-board vehicle use.

Innovation Solution

A extraction apparatus with a first end having an externally threaded section for engagement with the locking element, a second end with an engagement element for imparting rotational torque, and a bearing surface contacting the wheel nut, allowing for controlled removal of the locking element from the centre-lock wheel hub.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a slide hammer is used to remove the locking pin, then the locking pin can be removed, but shock loads are applied and significant physical exertion is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of locking pin removalVSAvoidshock loads

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the slide hammer mechanical system with a threaded extraction apparatus that uses rotational motion and threading engagement to gradually unscrew the locking pin from the hub, eliminating shock loads and physical exertion while maintaining effective removal capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the removal mechanism from linear冲击 force to rotational threading action, transforming the parameters of force application from high-magnitude shock to low-magnitude continuous torque, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and harmful shock loads

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a slide hammer is used to remove the locking pin, then the locking pin can be removed, but the device is physically large and requires significant physical exertion

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of locking pin removalVSAvoidweight of removal tool

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the heavy slide hammer with a lightweight threaded extraction apparatus that utilizes threading mechanics and rotational torque, significantly reducing tool weight and physical exertion requirements while maintaining effective locking pin removal capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transforms the removal mechanism from shock-based linear motion to threading-based rotational motion, changing the physical parameters from high-force impact to low-force continuous torque, thereby reducing tool weight and improving ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If a slide hammer is used to remove the locking pin, then the locking pin can be removed, but it cannot be easily transported or included onboard the vehicle

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of locking pin removalVSAvoidvolume of removal tool

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the bulky slide hammer with a compact threaded extraction apparatus that has significantly reduced volume, enabling easy transportation and onboard vehicle inclusion while maintaining effective locking pin removal through threading engagement and rotational torque

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the removal mechanism from shock-based linear motion to threading-based rotational motion, transforming the tool from a large, heavy device to a compact, lightweight apparatus that can be easily transported and stored onboard the vehicle

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 apparatus enables the controlled and efficient removal of the locking element, avoiding shock loads and physical exertion, and is compact enough for on-board use, facilitating easier wheel removal and reducing the risk of wheel loss.

Implementation Method 1

an extraction apparatus (50) having a first end with an externally threaded section, for engagement with a corresponding internal thread of the locking element

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScrew threading: Screw

Implementation Method 2

a second end provided with an engagement element for imparting rotational torque to the extraction apparatus

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorque: Torque

Data Source

PatentUS20250026148A1Centre-lock wheel removal tool

Publication Date: 2025.01.23 GORDON MURRAY AUTOMOTIVE LTD

AI summary

Method and tool (46, 50) for removal of the locking element (42) from a centre-lock wheel hub with a wheel nut threadingly engaged with the wheel hub, where the locking element engages with the wheel hub (24) and with the wheel nut (26) thereby to prevent relative rotation of the wheel hub and the wheel nut. Removal is made easier by fitting an extraction apparatus (50) having a first end with an externally threaded section, threadingly engaged with a corresponding internal thread (56) of the locking element, a second end provided with an engagement element for imparting rotational torque to the extraction apparatus, and a bearing surface (60, 62), located radially outside the externally threaded section and axially displaced from the externally threaded section, contacting the wheel nut.