Collapsible Wheel with Nested Sections for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible wheels do not efficiently reduce size for storage and transportation while maintaining stability and support capabilities, as they either compromise on stability or increase in size and weight when more sections are added for stability.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible wheel design featuring a hub assembly with multiple concentrically stacked wheel sections, each with spokes and rims, that can be rotated to expand or collapse, allowing for adjustable contact points with the ground, thereby enhancing stability and reducing size when collapsed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If more wheel sections are added to increase stability and support capabilities, then stability is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel is divided into multiple independent wheel sections (first wheel section, second wheel section, third wheel section, fourth wheel section) that can be stacked concentrically. Each section has its own hub section, rim, and spokes, allowing the wheel to achieve stability through multiple contact points while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel sections are arranged in a nested concentric configuration where each wheel section is positioned around the central axis at different radial distances. The first and second wheel sections are positioned at a first radial distance, while the third and fourth wheel sections are positioned at a second radial distance, creating a compact nested structure that provides multiple ground contact points without excessive size or complexity
2Volume of moving object
If wheel sections are stacked concentrically to reduce size for storage, then volume is reduced, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly includes an expansion mechanism that allows the wheel sections to dynamically transition between a collapsed nested configuration for storage and an expanded configuration for operation. The wheel sections can be rotated about the central axis to expand or collapse, enabling easy transformation between states
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel sections are pre-configured in a nested concentric arrangement that naturally collapses to a compact volume when not in use. The hub assembly and axle are designed to maintain this collapsed state by default, requiring only simple rotational action to expand for operation
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of collapsible wheels and methods of making collapsible wheels are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.