Universal Temporary Wheel for Multi-Standard Lug Bolt Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for repairing vehicle wheels are inefficient, as they require vehicles to remain immobile on jacks or stands, occupying space and risking damage, and stockpiling various temporary wheels with different lug bolt patterns is impractical, especially for vehicles in long-term storage.
Innovation Solution
A universal temporary wheel with a versatile aperture pattern that can accommodate different lug bolt configurations, allowing vehicles to be moved during repairs and stored safely, reducing the need for multiple temporary wheels and minimizing storage damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a vehicle is repaired using traditional methods with jacks or stands, then the vehicle can be lifted and the wheel can be removed, but the vehicle remains immobile and occupies a repair bay, reducing productivity and increasing risk of damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a temporary wheel designed for short-term use during repair operations. This disposable-like component allows the vehicle to be moved temporarily during the repair process, eliminating the need for prolonged immobilization on jacks or stands. The temporary wheel serves its purpose quickly and can be replaced or removed after the repair is complete, thereby improving productivity without requiring long-term vehicle immobilization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple temporary wheels with different lug bolt patterns are stocked to accommodate various vehicles, then compatibility with different wheel hubs is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal temporary wheel with a mounting structure that can accommodate multiple lug bolt patterns. Instead of maintaining separate temporary wheels for each pattern, this single multi-functional wheel can be adapted to fit different vehicle types by changing the mounting plate or using a universal mounting mechanism. This eliminates the need for complex inventory management while maintaining broad compatibility across various vehicle platforms.
Solution Approach 2:
The temporary wheel system is divided into separable components, including the wheel rim, tire, and interchangeable mounting plates. This segmentation allows the core wheel assembly to remain constant while only the mounting interface needs to be changed to accommodate different lug bolt patterns. This modular approach simplifies inventory requirements compared to stocking complete different wheels for each pattern.
3Reliability
If vehicles are stored with their original wheels during long-term storage, then the wheels remain in use and can be damaged from improper storage conditions, but removing and storing wheels separately increases handling complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the temporary wheel as a protective measure during storage periods. By installing a temporary wheel on the vehicle during long-term storage, the original wheel can be removed and stored in a controlled environment, protecting it from damage caused by improper storage conditions such as moisture, corrosion, or physical impact. The temporary wheel serves as a placeholder that allows the vehicle to be stored without its valuable original wheel exposed to harsh conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal temporary wheel is provided that has a universal aperture pattern that is adapted to mate with different configurations of lug bolt patterns to enable the wheel to be used with various wheel hub configurations having various lug bolt patterns. The universal temporary wheel can be installed while a damaged wheel is being repaired to allow an automobile or other vehicle to be moved. Because the universal temporary wheel has a universal aperture pattern, the wheel can be used with a variety of wheel hub configurations and lug bolt patterns, thereby eliminating the need to stock a variety of temporary wheels having various aperture patterns.