Locking Hub Ring and Nut Retainer for Theft-Resistant Wheel Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer and vehicle locking systems are vulnerable to theft due to the use of exposed locks that can be cut or compromised, and anti-rotation mechanisms for securing wheel hubs are space-consuming or difficult to install, while existing vehicle wheel hub locking systems face reliability issues with torque-induced wear.
Innovation Solution
A secure locking hub system that includes a locking ring and nut retainer to fix the wheel hub rotationally to the axle, with a mechanical actuator and tamper-proof dial to switch between locked and unlocked configurations, ensuring the hub remains secured to the axle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a keyed lock with locking ring is used to secure the hub to the axle, then the hub can be locked in a rotationally fixed position, but torque applied to the lock causes wear and reduces reliability over time
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into two independent functional components: a locking ring that prevents rotational movement and a separate retaining device that prevents axial displacement. This segmentation isolates the torque load from the locking mechanism, eliminating torque-induced wear on the lock while maintaining secure hub fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
A retaining device acts as an intermediary component between the hub and axle, providing a separate mechanism for axial retention that does not interfere with the locking ring's rotational security function. This intermediary structure absorbs the torque loads that would otherwise wear the locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If standard threaded nuts with anti-rotation features are used to secure the hub, then the nut can be retained on the axle, but the mechanisms take up more available space than ideal
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining device combines multiple retention functions into a single integrated component that works in conjunction with the locking ring. By merging the axial retention function with the existing locking structure, the design eliminates the need for separate anti-rotation features on nuts, reducing overall space consumption while maintaining secure hub attachment.
3Reliability
If castle nuts with cotter pins are used to retain the fastener, then the nut can be secured against rotation, but the installation becomes more complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts the retention function from complex multi-component assemblies like castle nuts and cotter pins, and implements it through a simpler retaining device that integrates with the locking ring structure. This extraction simplifies the installation process while maintaining reliable fastener retention.
4Reliability
If exposed locks are used in coupler lock systems, then the trailer can be locked to the vehicle, but the locks can be cut or compromised by thieves
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using an exposed lock mechanism that protrudes outward and is vulnerable to cutting, the locking ring and retaining device are designed to be recessed or integrated into the hub structure. This inversion of the locking mechanism's exposure eliminates the vulnerability to lock cutters while maintaining the ability to securely lock the trailer to the vehicle.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking hub system for locking a wheel hub of a vehicle to an axle is provided. The system has a locking ring that may be moved between locked and unlocked configurations. When in the locked configuration, the hub is in a rotationally fixed position relative to the axle on which the hub is mounted. With the hub locked to the axle, the wheel will not rotate and the vehicle thus cannot be moved. When in the unlocked configuration, the hub can rotate freely about the axle, thereby allowing movement of the vehicle. The hub is fastened to the axle using a threaded nut. The threaded nut is retained on the axle by a nut retainer having inwardly facing tangs that are positioned within a groove around the axle.