Movable Rim Disc Wheel Structure for Brake Cooling and Aerodynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle wheel designs face issues such as limited airflow, complex constructions, and inadequate brake cooling due to fixed positions of covering elements and ventilation surfaces, which hinder aerodynamics and cooling efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A wheel component with a rim disc that can be dynamically displaced between open and closed states relative to the wheel hub, equipped with an aero ring to enhance airflow and connected to the rim base or spokes, allowing for adjustable airflow based on vehicle parameters like speed and brake usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If covering elements are exclusively displaced by centrifugal force, then the structure is simple, but the covering elements cannot be displaced into an individual position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the rim disc movable relative to the wheel hub, allowing it to transition between open and closed states. This dynamic configuration enables the rim disc to be positioned individually rather than being fixed, resolving the contradiction between simple centrifugal displacement and individual position control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If panels are displaced either into extended position or retracted position, then the mechanism is simple, but the ventilation surface cannot be dynamically adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The rim disc is designed to be dynamically adjustable between open and closed states, enabling continuous ventilation surface adjustment rather than fixed panel positions. This dynamic approach provides adaptability for different cooling requirements while maintaining a relatively simple structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wheel segments are used to change contour, then the structure is elaborate, but the ventilation surface remains constant and not suitable for brake cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rim disc as a separate, movable component from the fixed wheel structure. This extracted rim disc can be independently positioned to optimize brake cooling by creating appropriate ventilation surfaces, while the remaining wheel structure maintains its integrity. This resolves the contradiction by providing cooling adaptability without requiring complex wheel segment kinematics.
4Adaptability or versatility
If flaps are moved into position covering or releasing spokes, then aerodynamics can be adjusted, but the construction becomes complex and elaborate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the aerodynamic adjustment function into the rim disc's opening/closing action. The same rim disc movement that controls brake cooling also adjusts aerodynamics by exposing or covering the spokes, eliminating the need for separate flap mechanisms and reducing overall structural complexity.
5Adaptability or versatility
If the rim disc is in closed state, then aerodynamics are improved, but airflow for brake cooling is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rim disc is designed to be dynamically adjustable between open and closed states, enabling continuous ventilation surface adjustment rather than fixed panel positions. This dynamic approach provides adaptability for different cooling requirements while maintaining a relatively simple structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel component for a motor vehicle includes a rim base, a wheel hub, a rim disc, and an aero ring. The aero ring rests on the rim base in a circumferential direction and forms a circular ring starting from the rim base radially in a direction of the wheel hub. The rim disc is displaceable in a direction of an axis of rotation of the wheel component relative to the wheel hub between an open state and a closed state. The rim disc rests with an outer end face against an inner front surface of the aero ring in a sealing manner in the closed state of the rim disc. There is larger flow cross-section through the wheel component with the rim disc in the open state than in the closed state.