Non-Pneumatic Wheel Assembly for Replaceable Spokes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-pneumatic wheel constructions are not amenable to substituting different spokes or hubs, and lack the ability to incorporate reinforcements, shapes, and features, due to integral construction methods.
Innovation Solution
A method of constructing non-pneumatic wheels where spokes are secured around the hub with mechanical connections, allowing for easy replacement and incorporation of various materials and features, including a bonding layer and annular band that can be cured with pressure and heat, and retainer mechanisms for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If spokes are integrally molded with the hub, then structural strength is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel is divided into separable components: the hub, multiple spokes, and the outer band. Spokes can be individually removed from the hub using retention features, allowing replacement without destroying the entire wheel structure. This segmentation maintains structural integrity during use while enabling easy repair of damaged spokes.
2Ease of manufacture
If spokes are integrally molded with the hub, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By separating spokes from the hub through retention features, the design allows different spoke configurations, materials, or designs to be substituted by simply detaching and attaching new spokes. This maintains manufacturing simplicity while dramatically improving adaptability for different applications or repairs.
3Ease of repair
If spokes are attached with retention features, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retention features are integrated into the basic spoke-hub connection structure, adding minimal complexity. Each spoke has retention features at its inner end that engage with the hub, providing a simple mechanical attachment system that enables easy repair without requiring complex fastening mechanisms.
4Ease of repair
If outer band is separably attached to spokes, then ease of repair is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The outer band is separably attached to the outer ends of the spokes through retention features, allowing the band to be removed and replaced independently. This segmentation enables easy repair of the outer band while maintaining adequate manufacturing precision through standardized retention feature geometries that guide proper alignment during assembly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the replacement of individual spokes and hubs, facilitates the use of various materials and reinforcements, and allows for precise construction of tire components, improving durability and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
The bonding layer outer surface is attached by curing the bonding layer to the outer annular band by the application of pressure and heat.
Implementation Method 2
The bonding layer outer surface is attached by curing the bonding layer to the outer annular band by the application of pressure and heat.
Implementation Method 3
The bonding layer outer surface is attached by curing the bonding layer to the outer annular band by the application of pressure and heat.
Implementation Method 4
expanding the at least one spoke support radially outward so that the outer surface of the bonding layer contacts, and attaches with, the inner surface of the outer annular band
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3A
Figure 3B~3E
AI summary
A method of constructing a non-pneumatic wheel by securing a plurality of spokes around the outer circumference of a hub, positioning at least one spoke support at the radially outer end of each spoke such that the at least one spoke support holds the radially outer end of each spoke in a radially outward annular orientation, placing an outer annular band concentrically over the radially outer ends of the spokes, bonding the spokes to the outer annular band, contracting the at least one spoke support radially inward; and separating the at least one spoke supports from the non-pneumatic wheel.