Wheel Cap With Metal Spring Members for Tool-Free Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel caps that partly cover wheels require bolts or other fastening components for installation, making the process cumbersome and potentially damaging to the wheel.
Innovation Solution
A cap with metal spring members that allow elastic deformation for easy installation, eliminating the need for bolts by using engaging portions spaced apart in the circumferential and radial directions, and featuring U-shaped spring members with resin covers to prevent rust and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bolts or fastening components are used to install the cap, then the cap can be securely fixed on the wheel, but the installation process becomes cumbersome and may damage the wheel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes bolts and fastening components from the installation system, replacing them with elastic engaging portions that directly attach the cap to the wheel. This extraction of harmful fastening elements eliminates the need for tools and complex installation procedures while maintaining secure fixation through elastic engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging portions are designed to automatically engage with the wheel structure through elastic deformation, eliminating the need for external fastening operations. The elastic portions self-adjust to secure the cap in place without requiring manual intervention with tools, making the installation self-service and tool-free.
2Reliability
If bolts are used for installation, then secure fixation is achieved, but the wheel may be damaged during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts bolts and fastening components that cause wheel damage during installation. The elastic engaging portions are designed to attach to the wheel without penetrating or mechanically stressing the wheel structure, thereby eliminating the harmful effects associated with traditional fastening methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic material of the engaging portions provides inherent cushioning during installation, absorbing impact forces and preventing damage to the wheel. The elastic deformation capability allows the engaging portions to gently engage with the wheel structure without causing stress concentrations or physical damage.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If multiple engaging portions are spaced apart in radial direction, then force distribution improves and lifespan extends, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the engagement system into multiple discrete engaging portions spaced apart in the radial direction. Each engaging portion independently handles a portion of the radial force, distributing the load and reducing stress on any single point. This segmentation extends the lifespan of the engaging portions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging portions are strategically positioned at specific locations around the cap's inner circumference, with at least two portions spaced apart in the radial direction. This local distribution of engagement points optimizes force bearing capacity at critical locations without requiring complex structural modifications throughout the entire cap.
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
Facilitates effortless installation and positioning of the cap on the wheel, reduces the force applied to the engaging portions, thereby extending their lifespan and preventing wheel damage, while maintaining durability and preventing oxidation.
Implementation Method 1
Elastic deformation of the spring member facilitates installation of the cap on the wheel
Data Source
AI summary
A cap has a plurality of engaging portions elastically engageable with a wheel for holding a tire. The cap is configured to partly cover the wheel. Each of the plurality of engaging portions has a spring member formed of metal.