Locking Hub Ring Assembly for Compact Vehicle Theft Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for trailers and vehicles are vulnerable to theft due to exposed locks that can be cut or compromised, and they are not effective for preventing unauthorized movement of motorized vehicles, with complex and costly actuating mechanisms increasing system size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A secure locking hub system that locks a wheel hub in a rotationally fixed position using a manually positionable locking ring with splines that mate with the hub and axle, combined with a hub cap and lock to prevent unauthorized unlocking, allowing the system to be easily switched between locked and unlocked configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an actuator and cam mechanism are used to lock the hub, then the locking function is achieved, but the system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the complex actuator and cam mechanism from the locking system. Instead, it uses a simple locking ring with splines that can be manually positioned between the hub and axle to prevent rotation, achieving the locking function with minimal components.
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than using a complex mechanism to actively engage locking components, the invention inverts the approach by using a simple locking ring that passively prevents rotation when positioned between the hub and axle. The locking action is achieved by the absence of rotational movement rather than active engagement of complex mechanisms.
2Reliability
If an actuator mechanism is used to lock the hub, then the locking function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the expensive actuator and cam components from the design, replacing them with a simple locking ring made of basic materials. This extraction of complex components directly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the essential locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured from basic materials. Rather than using expensive, complex actuating mechanisms, the invention employs a straightforward locking ring that achieves the same functional result at lower cost.
3Device complexity
If a locking ring is used to lock the hub, then the system size is reduced, but the security against unauthorized unlocking decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring is nested within the hub assembly, positioned between the hub and axle. The hub cap then covers and protects the locking ring from external access. This nesting arrangement maintains the compact size while adding layers of security against unauthorized unlocking attempts.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub cap serves as an intermediary protective element that covers the locking ring and prevents direct access to it. This intermediary component maintains the simple, compact design while adding a security layer that prevents thieves from easily accessing or manipulating the locking mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A secure 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 manually inserted and removed by a user to switch the system 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. The system additionally has a security lock that prevents any unauthorized individual from removing the locking ring, thereby preventing theft of the vehicle.