Replaceable Discrete Traction Elements for Aircraft Cargo Tires
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tires used in powered cargo loading systems for aircraft require significant time and effort for replacement due to the need to remove and replace the entire tire, including the hub and traction material, when wear or damage occurs.
Innovation Solution
The tire features discrete traction elements that can be independently coupled to and removed from the hub without removing the entire tire, allowing for individual replacement and reducing the effort and time required for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire tire (hub and traction material) is removed and replaced when wear or damage occurs, then the traction performance is restored, but the maintenance time and effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The tire is divided into separate components: a reusable hub and replaceable traction elements. The traction elements are further segmented into discrete units that can be individually removed and replaced. This segmentation allows only the worn traction elements to be replaced rather than the entire tire assembly, significantly reducing maintenance time while restoring traction performance.
2Reliability
If the entire tire (hub and traction material) is removed and replaced when wear or damage occurs, then the traction performance is restored, but the maintenance effort and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tire system is segmented into a permanent hub and modular traction elements. This segmentation simplifies the repair process by allowing technicians to replace only the worn traction elements rather than handling the entire tire assembly, reducing maintenance effort and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The traction elements are extracted as separate, independently replaceable components from the hub. This extraction allows for simplified replacement procedures where only the necessary traction elements are removed and replaced, eliminating the need to handle and reinstall the entire tire assembly.
3Loss of time
If discrete traction elements are used that can be independently replaced, then the maintenance time and effort are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While segmentation creates modular components, the hub is designed with a standardized interface system that simplifies the assembly process. The segmentation allows for quick identification and replacement of specific traction elements without requiring complex disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple types of traction elements through a standardized interface. This universality reduces overall system complexity by allowing the same hub to work with different traction element configurations, simplifying inventory and replacement procedures.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
A tire may comprise a hub and a plurality of discrete traction elements coupled to the hub. Each of the traction elements may comprise a backing plate and an elastomeric material bonded to the backing plate. Circumferentially adjacent traction elements may axially overlap.