Tapered Insert Wheel Height Adjustment Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic flux leakage above ground tank floor inspection devices face challenges in adjusting wheel height due to varying tank floor conditions, leading to complex and costly solutions such as screw-based adjustments or multiple wheel sets, which are prone to damage and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A wheel height adjustment assembly using a tapered insert and mounting bracket system, where the tapered insert acts as an eccentric cam to adjust wheel height and resist mechanical forces, with features like an o-ring groove to prevent debris and ensure alignment, allowing for secure and adaptable positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If screw-based adjustment method is used to set wheel height, then wheel height can be adjusted, but the assembly becomes complex and prone to damage from operator errors
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: a body portion with an opening, an insert member that fits into the opening, and a retaining member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the overall assembly process and reducing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a screw thread that requires rotational adjustment, the invention inverts the approach by using an insert member with a tapered outer peripheral surface that, when rotated, causes radial expansion to engage with the body portion. This inversion transforms a complex threading mechanism into a simpler expansion-based locking system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different sized wheels are used to adjust wheel height, then wheel height can be changed for different conditions, but the cost increases and multiple wheel sets must be carried
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel height adjustment mechanism uses a dynamic insert member that can be rotated to different positions within the body portion. This rotational movement allows the wheel height to be dynamically adjusted to various positions, replacing the need for multiple static wheel sets with a single adjustable wheel assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert member's radial expansion parameter is changed through rotation, which alters the effective wheel height. By changing the expansion parameter of the insert member, the wheel height can be adjusted to accommodate different tank floor conditions without requiring physical replacement of wheels.
3Ease of operation
If screw-based adjustment is used, then wheel height can be set, but debris can damage the screw threads and operator errors can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The insert member functions as a flexible expansion element that can deform radially when rotated. This flexibility allows it to engage smoothly with the body portion without sharp threads that are susceptible to debris damage, while the rotational motion provides intuitive feedback to the operator for easy and reliable adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert member is designed as a simple, robust component that can be easily replaced if damaged, unlike complex screw mechanisms. The design prioritizes simplicity and resistance to operator errors, making the adjustment mechanism more reliable and easier to maintain.
4Force
If the scanner crashes against the tank floor due to magnetic field strength, then the magnetic inspection can proceed, but the front wheels must absorb the crash force without changing wheel height
Solution Approach 1:
The insert member features a tapered outer peripheral surface that, when expanded, creates a curved engagement surface within the body portion. This curved geometry distributes impact forces more evenly and provides a self-centering effect that maintains wheel height stability during the magnetic scanner's crash against the tank floor.
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable insert member acts as a cushioning mechanism that can absorb impact forces. When the wheel assembly experiences crash forces during magnetic inspection, the insert member's expanded state provides a cushioning effect that protects against sudden height changes while maintaining the adjusted position.
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
This solution enables easy and secure adjustment of wheel height, resisting mechanical forces and accommodating varying conditions without the need for multiple wheel sets, thus enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs and damage risks.
Implementation Method 1
the tapered insert acts as an eccentric cam to adjust wheel height and resist mechanical forces
Implementation Method 2
the tapered insert acts as an eccentric cam to adjust wheel height and resist mechanical forces
Implementation Method 3
with features like an o-ring groove to prevent debris and ensure alignment
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a wheel height adjustment assembly. The wheel height adjustment assembly includes a mounting bracket, a tapered insert, a drawbar and a wheel connected together. The mounting bracket has a first end, a second end and a sidewall. A tapered opening is formed in the sidewall of the mounting bracket for receiving the tapered insert. The tapered insert has a first end, a second end a body portion positioned between the first end and the second end. The first end and the second end are provided with threaded openings. The openings are offset from one another.