Segmented Wheel Lock-Ring Assembly for Easier Tire Retention Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retaining rings for wheel assemblies, particularly those for large tires, are difficult to remove and can be cumbersome and heavy, posing handling challenges.
Innovation Solution
A lock-ring system with a coupler plate that allows for easier separation and handling of lock-ring ends, using a handle to maintain separation and protect fasteners, reducing the need for manual disassembly and minimizing exposure to damage or dirt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a retaining ring is made large and heavy to retain large tires, then the retaining strength is improved, but the ease of handling and removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock-ring is divided into multiple sections (first lock-ring section, second lock-ring section, etc.) that can be separated from each other. Each section can be handled independently, reducing the weight and size that a single person must manage at any one time, while the sections work together to provide the necessary retaining strength for large tires.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupler plate is introduced as an intermediary component to connect the lock-ring sections. The coupler plate includes a coupler slot that receives a fastener, allowing the sections to be joined securely. This intermediary mechanism enables easy assembly and disassembly of the lock-ring sections, improving ease of handling and removal while maintaining the structural integrity needed for retaining strength.
2Reliability
If a retaining ring is designed to be difficult to remove, then the reliability of tire retention is improved, but the ease of removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock-ring system transitions from a static, permanently fixed structure to a dynamic, reversible assembly. The lock-ring sections can be securely joined during normal operation to provide reliable tire retention, but can be easily separated when removal is needed. The coupler plate with its fastener system allows the connection to be tightened for reliability during use and loosened for easy removal.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the lock-ring into separable sections connected by coupler plates, the system achieves both reliability during operation (when sections are securely joined) and ease of removal (when sections can be separated). The segmentation allows the lock-ring to function as a unified, reliable retaining structure during use, while enabling simple disassembly for maintenance or replacement.
3Ease of manufacture
If fasteners are exposed during lock-ring assembly, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the risk of misplacement and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler slot is defined within the coupler plate structure, creating a nested arrangement where the fastener is received within the confines of the coupler plate. This nesting protects the fastener from external damage and prevents misplacement by providing a dedicated receptacle. The fastener fits into the coupler slot, which is itself part of the coupler plate assembly, creating a hierarchical protective structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler plate acts as an intermediary that shields and protects the fastener. Rather than exposing the fastener directly to the external environment where it could be damaged or misplaced, the coupler plate provides a protective housing with a defined coupler slot. This intermediary structure maintains ease of assembly by providing clear alignment features while simultaneously reducing the risk of harmful factors affecting the fastener.
Data Source
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AI summary
A lock-ring system may include one or more lock-ring sections configured to at least partially define an annular lock-ring and one or more coupler plates configured to couple a first ring section end of a first lock-ring section to either a second ring section end of the first lock-ring section or to a ring section end of a second lock-ring section. The one or more coupler plates may be configured to be received in ring recesses of the one or more lock-ring sections. The one or more coupler plates may be coupled to the one or more ring section ends by fasteners and may be configured to slide relative to the ring recesses when the fasteners are loosened, so that a lock-ring formed by the one or more lock-ring sections may be mounted on, or removed from, a wheel assembly. A handle may be used to assist with maintaining separation of the lock-ring sections during handling and to assist with handling the lock-ring during removal and installation of the lock-ring on a wheel assembly.