Modular Tire Chain Link Assembly for Automated Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire chain production processes are inflexible and require significant material usage, necessitating different sizes for varying tire dimensions, and lack automation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A chain link design comprising a first part with multiple webs and a second part with recesses, allowing modular assembly and differing material properties, enabling automated production and optimized material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional tire chains with separate left and right chains are used, then the chains can provide traction on snowy roads, but the chains shift laterally during vehicle operation reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate left and right tire chains into a single continuous chain structure that wraps around both tires. This merging eliminates the lateral shifting problem between separate chains while maintaining traction effectiveness across the vehicle's width.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous chain is divided into modular segments or links that can flex and adapt to the tire contours while maintaining the overall continuous structure. This segmentation allows the chain to conform to tire shape without breaking the continuous protective barrier against snow.
2Reliability
If tire chains are designed to fit tightly around tires, then traction is improved, but the chains become difficult to install and remove
Solution Approach 1:
The chain incorporates flexible links and adjustable tensioning mechanisms that allow dynamic adaptation during installation. The chain can be initially installed in a loose state and then progressively tensioned to fit tightly around the tires, making installation easier while maintaining secure fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The chain is pre-formed or pre-assembled in a configuration that facilitates easier installation, such as pre-bent sections or pre-attached connection points that align with tire contours, reducing the effort required during installation.
3Strength
If tire chains use multiple links and connectors, then strength and durability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual chain components are merged into a single integrated continuous chain structure, reducing the number of separate connectors and assembly steps while maintaining the strength benefits of multiple links through the continuous design.
Solution Approach 2:
The chain links are designed with universal connection mechanisms that can join any link to any other link in the same standardized way, simplifying the connector design while maintaining strength and durability across the entire chain structure.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a chain link (1) for a tire chain. The chain link (1) has a first part (2) and a second part (4) which is welded together with the first part (2). The first part (2) is provided with at least two webs (6) which are arranged next to each other, wherein a hook-in opening (8) is delimited by two respective webs (6) and the second part (4), and two opposite sides (10, 10') of the second part are provided with recesses (12) which correspond to the webs and into each of which a respective end (14) of the webs (6) is inserted.