Sewer Inspection Trolley Wheel Mount for Fast Wheel Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-change systems for trolley wheels in sewer pipe inspection and renovation are complex, labor-intensive to manufacture, require high maintenance due to dirt susceptibility, and are difficult to handle and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A trolley with a simple design featuring thru-axles and wheels connected via an elastic element, such as an O-ring or metal spring, which provides a self-locking frictional connection, allowing easy handling and maintenance, and includes locking elements for secure torque transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a complex quick-change system is used for wheel replacement, then wheel replacement speed is improved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly is segmented into modular components (wheel, axle, elastic element, locking element) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation enables rapid replacement while keeping each component simple in design, resolving the contradiction between quick replacement and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element and locking element are extracted as separate, simple components that can be easily installed and removed. This extraction allows the wheel to be quickly detached from the axle without complex mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining fast replacement capability.
2Loss of time
If a complex quick-change system is used for wheel replacement, then wheel replacement speed is improved, but ease of maintenance is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic element is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily replaced when worn or damaged. This approach prioritizes ease of maintenance over long-term durability, allowing quick replacement without complex tools or procedures, thus improving ease of repair while maintaining fast wheel replacement capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple axle-wheel connection is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but wheel security against accidental disassembly is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic element automatically generates friction force between the axle and wheel, creating a self-locking mechanism that secures the wheel without requiring complex external locking systems. This self-service approach maintains simplicity in manufacturing while ensuring reliable wheel attachment during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element is designed with a curved or ring-shaped geometry that allows it to encircle the axle and exert continuous radial pressure on the wheel. This curvature enables the elastic element to maintain constant frictional contact, securing the wheel against accidental disassembly while keeping the overall connection simple.
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 solution enables quick and easy wheel replacement, reduces maintenance needs, and ensures secure wheel attachment during use, enhancing operational efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element is provided that creates a frictional connection between the quick-release axle and the wheel, preventing the wheel from sliding off
Implementation Method 2
an elastic element extending at least partially around the quick-release axle and beyond the circumference of the quick-release axle
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A vehicle (10) for sewer pipe inspection and/or rehabilitation, comprising a vehicle chassis (20), a plurality of axles (30) arranged on the vehicle chassis (20), and at least one wheel (50) arranged on each axle (30) and having an axle mount (40), characterized in that at least one axle (30) has an elastic element (60) extending at least partially around the axle (30) and beyond the circumference of the axle (30), which causes a force transmission between the axle (30) and the wheel (50).