Segmented Wheel Assembly for Compact Storage and Field Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle wheels, rims, and tires as whole circles lead to storage inefficiencies due to wasted space and require entire replacement even for localized damage, which is costly and inconvenient for transportation and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The development of segmented wheels comprising individually replaceable rim and tire segments, with adjustable spoke configurations and interlocking mechanisms, allowing for selective replacement of damaged parts and reconfiguration for different terrains, reducing storage space and maintenance costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional whole wheels are used, then structural integrity and simplicity are maintained, but storage space efficiency deteriorates due to wasted circular center areas and diamond-shaped gaps between adjacent wheels
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel is divided into multiple replaceable segments including rim segments, tire segments, and spoke assemblies. Each segment can be independently stored, transported, and replaced, dramatically reducing the storage volume required compared to storing complete wheel assemblies. The segments can be nested or stacked in compact configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
Wheel segments are designed to nest within each other when not in use. For example, rim segments can be stored inside tire segments, and spoke assemblies can be stored within the rim structure, creating a compact storage configuration that minimizes the volume occupied by spare parts.
2Reliability
If entire wheels are replaced due to localized damage, then structural reliability is maintained, but maintenance cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel is segmented into modular components (rim segments, tire segments, spoke assemblies) that can be independently inspected and replaced. When damage occurs, only the specific damaged segment needs to be removed and replaced, rather than replacing the entire wheel assembly. This reduces maintenance time and preserves undamaged portions of the wheel.
Solution Approach 2:
Damaged wheel segments are removed and discarded, while the remaining undamaged segments are retained and reused. The replaced segments can be recovered, refurbished, or recycled, reducing material waste and maintenance costs compared to replacing entire wheels.
3Reliability
If entire wheels are replaced due to localized damage, then structural reliability is maintained, but material waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the wheel into replaceable segments, only the damaged portion needs to be replaced rather than the entire wheel. This significantly reduces material waste as the undamaged segments continue to be used. The replaced segments can be recycled or refurbished for future use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables selective discarding of only the damaged segment while recovering and retaining all undamaged segments. This approach minimizes material waste and supports sustainable practices by reducing the frequency of manufacturing new wheel components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fixed spoke configurations are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different terrains deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spoke configuration is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. Different spoke assemblies with varying numbers, arrangements, and mechanical compliances can be installed depending on the terrain requirements. For example, vehicles can be equipped with different spoke configurations for snowy, muddy, or dry conditions, allowing the wheel to adapt to varying operational environments.
5Ease of operation
If full-sized bicycle wheels are transported, then wheel functionality is maintained, but storage and transportation convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bicycle wheel is divided into separable segments (rim, tire, spokes, hub) that can be disassembled and stored in a compact configuration. When not in use, the segments can be nested within each other or stored in a compact case, dramatically reducing the volume required for storage or transportation compared to a complete assembled wheel.
Data Source
AI summary
Segmented wheels offer advantages in storage space of closely packed segments as compared to whole wheels. Individually damaged or worn segments may be replaced in the field with little or no need for jacks or cranes to support the rest of the vehicle, and entire wheels may be replaced or reconfigured from one tread type to another by swapping out segments not in contact with the ground and then driving the vehicle a distance which is a fraction of the circumference of its wheels to expose the remaining segments for retrofit. Segments may be freely supported by rigid or compliant spokes or may be bound together by straps or designed to interlock with adjacent segments. Embodiments of the invention may be made in any size range including applications for bicycles, agricultural machinery, cars, trucks and mining machinery and vehicles.