Offset Press for Mining Wheel Stud Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for removing and replacing wheel studs on large mining vehicle wheels are difficult and prone to damaging the wheel, especially when studs are closely arranged, due to the use of hammers which are strenuous and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A press assembly system comprising a frame assembly, a press assembly, and a drive assembly, with various adapter components that allow for different operational modes to safely and efficiently remove or insert wheel studs from the wheel flange, minimizing damage and simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional removal tools such as hammers are used to remove wheel studs, then the removal process can be performed, but it is difficult and can result in damage to the wheel
Solution Approach 1:
A press tool serves as an intermediary device between the operator and the wheel stud. The press tool includes a press member that contacts the wheel stud and a frame assembly that distributes force across multiple contact points on the wheel flange, preventing direct impact damage while enabling stud removal
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional hammering mechanical system with a controlled pressing mechanical system. Instead of impact forces, the press tool uses gradual compressive force applied through a drive assembly, eliminating the harmful shock loads that cause wheel damage
2Productivity
If wheel studs are arranged very close to each other and to the wheel cylinder, then high capacity wheel design is achieved, but conventional removal tools become difficult to use and increase damage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The press tool is segmented into multiple independent contact points including a press member for the target stud and support members for adjacent studs. This segmentation allows each contact point to be independently positioned and adjusted to accommodate the close spacing of wheel studs while distributing the removal force appropriately
Solution Approach 2:
The press tool utilizes the radial dimension by extending support members outward to contact adjacent wheel studs, creating a stable triangular support configuration. This dimensional approach provides operational stability when studs are arranged in tight circular patterns on the wheel flange
3Productivity
If conventional hammering methods are used for wheel stud removal, then removal can be achieved, but the process is strenuous and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The press tool is designed to be self-aligning through its frame assembly that contacts multiple wheel studs simultaneously. The tool automatically positions itself relative to the wheel flange geometry, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment and reducing setup time while requiring minimal operator force
Solution Approach 2:
The press tool is designed as a universal device that can remove any wheel stud on the wheel by simply repositioning the tool. The standardized frame assembly and adjustable press member allow the same tool to service all stud positions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools and speeding up maintenance operations
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
The system mechanizes the removal and insertion of wheel studs, reducing the likelihood of wheel damage and simplifying the process, making it easier and quicker to perform maintenance in the field.
Implementation Method 1
The drive assembly is configured to displace the press assembly relative to the frame assembly such that operation of the drive assembly displaces the first stud relative to the wheel flange
Data Source
AI summary
A press for displacing a first wheel stud relative to a stud opening in a wheel flange of a wheel comprises a press assembly, a frame assembly, and a drive assembly. The frame assembly comprises a frame member and at least one adapter member. The drive assembly is configured to displace the press assembly relative to the frame assembly such that operation of the drive assembly displaces the first stud relative to the wheel flange. The adapter member is supported by the frame member and engages at least one of the wheel flange and a second wheel stud to support the press assembly in a desired orientation relative to the primary wheel stud when the drive assembly displaces the first stud relative to the stud opening.