Positive-Lock Wheel Clamp Adapter for Runout-Free Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle wheel alignment systems face inefficiencies due to imperfect mechanical mounting processes of alignment clamps, leading to human error, unnecessary 'Runout' measurements, and increased time requirements, especially in Heavy Duty Vehicles with multiple axles.
Innovation Solution
A CNC-machined clamp adapter that engages onto the threaded studs of the axle's hub without removing the wheel, providing a positive mechanical lock and eliminating the need for 'Runout' measurements by using interchangeable retractable mechanisms, internal clamping apparatus, or magnetic attachments for secure mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional gripping devices or grabbers are used to mount the wheel clamp onto the wheel, then the mounting process can be performed, but mechanical imperfections and play/deflection occur leading to inaccurate measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a positive-lock clamp as an intermediary mounting device that securely attaches to the wheel rim and firmly holds the alignment head. This clamp eliminates mechanical play and deflection between the alignment head and the wheel, providing a stable connection that ensures accurate alignment measurements without requiring complex runout compensation procedures.
2Measurement precision
If conventional mounting methods with multiple measurements and runout calculations are used, then alignment measurements can be obtained, but the process becomes very time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The positive-lock clamp is designed to be pre-mounted onto the wheel rim in a single secure operation. This preliminary secure mounting eliminates the need for subsequent runout detection and calculation procedures, allowing alignment measurements to be taken immediately after a single mounting action, thereby dramatically reducing the overall time required for wheel alignment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-integral adapters are used to attach to the rim or tire, then mounting can be achieved, but the mechanical process is imperfect and requires additional equipment for HD vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The positive-lock clamp is designed with a universal mounting mechanism that can securely attach to various wheel rim types and configurations. The clamp incorporates adjustable features and multiple attachment points that allow it to work with different wheel sizes and designs, eliminating the need for vehicle-specific or rim-type-specific adapters, and removing the requirement for additional equipment in heavy-duty vehicle applications.
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 accurate and efficient wheel alignment measurements by eliminating mechanical imperfections and the need for lengthy 'Runout' processes, allowing for quick and precise mounting on various wheel sizes and types, significantly reducing measurement time in heavy-duty applications.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic attachments for secure mounting
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel clamp attaches to a vehicle wheel for performing a wheel alignment on the vehicle. The wheel clamp has a mechanism to mount on the studs of the wheel and to securely mount on the flat surface of the rim. The wheel clamp may have a retractable mechanism that while mounted on the wheel's stud, can slide along the length of the stud without the need to turn it using the threads of the stud. Different methods may be used to attach to the stud, such as by means of treading a device, using a contraction mechanism or magnetic attraction. The wheel clamp has a crossbar and mechanism for supporting a measuring sensor, head or target and can be accommodated to different sizes, shapes and patterns of wheels and studs in the automotive industry.