Centre-Lock Wheel Removal Tool With Threaded Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing locking pins from centre-lock wheels, such as slide hammers, are unsatisfactory due to their size, weight, noise, and requirement for significant physical exertion, making them impractical for roadside repairs and vehicle toolkits.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight extraction apparatus with a threaded section, engagement element, and bearing surface is used to steadily withdraw the locking pin by rotating it, avoiding shock loads and allowing easy integration into vehicle toolkits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a slide hammer is used to remove the locking pin, then the locking pin can be removed, but the tool is physically large, heavy, noisy and requires significant physical exertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the slide hammer's linear impact mechanism with a threaded rotational extraction mechanism. The extraction tool engages with the locking pin via threads and uses rotational motion to steadily withdraw the pin, eliminating the need for shock loads and significant physical force.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the removal mechanism from high-force impact (slide hammer) to low-force rotational extraction (threaded tool). By using a fine-pitch thread, the tool converts small rotational inputs into controlled linear extraction forces, dramatically reducing the physical exertion and tool weight required.
2Reliability
If a slide hammer is used to remove the locking pin, then the locking pin can be removed, but it applies a shock load which is inherently undesirable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the shock-loaded impact mechanism of a slide hammer with a controlled threaded extraction system. The fine-pitch thread provides gradual, steady extraction forces that avoid shock loads while reliably removing the locking pin without damaging surrounding components.
3Adaptability or versatility
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
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the bulky slide hammer mechanism with a compact threaded extraction tool that can be easily stored in vehicle toolkits. The tool's small size and simple construction enable portability while maintaining effective locking pin removal capability.
4Reliability
If an externally-inserted locking pin is used to prevent relative rotation, then the wheel can be securely retained, but the pin is tightly fitted and may become even more tightly engaged due to small movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the friction-based or snap-fit retention mechanisms with a threaded engagement system. The extraction tool's threads engage with the locking pin's internal threads, providing a positive mechanical connection that can steadily extract the pin even when tightly fitted, without relying on friction or impact forces.
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
Enables controlled and efficient removal of locking pins, reducing the risk of damage and inconvenience, and facilitating roadside repairs with a compact and lightweight tool.
Implementation Method 1
fitting an extraction apparatus having a first end with an externally threaded section, threadingly engaged with a corresponding internal thread of the locking element
Implementation Method 2
a bearing surface, located radially outside the externally threaded section and axially displaced from the externally threaded section, contacting the wheel nut
Data Source
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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.