Wheel Hub Centering Device Radial Web Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel hubs face challenges in achieving a balance between lightweight construction and sufficient strength while maintaining easy assembly and stiffness, particularly in the automotive field for passenger cars.
Innovation Solution
The centering device is formed from separated connecting pieces with recesses in the circumferential direction, allowing for optimal weight savings and strength optimization by using connecting pieces that are radially oriented with respect to the fastening holes, and recesses that contribute to force dissipation and material reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the centering device is formed as a continuous cylindrical body, then the structural strength and stiffness are improved, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The centering device is divided into multiple connecting pieces (typically 3-5 segments) separated by recesses, transforming a continuous cylindrical structure into a segmented one. This segmentation reduces material usage and weight while maintaining the essential centering function, as the segments collectively form the centering surface without requiring complete continuity
2Weight of moving object
If the centering device is formed from separated connecting pieces, then the weight is reduced, but the structural stiffness may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting pieces are strategically positioned and dimensioned to provide localized stiffness where needed for centering functionality, while allowing weight reduction in non-critical areas. The recesses between segments are designed with specific geometries that maintain structural integrity without compromising overall stiffness
3Weight of moving object
If material is removed to create recesses, then the weight savings are achieved, but the strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Material is selectively removed to create recesses between connecting pieces, extracting only the non-essential material while preserving the structural framework. The recesses are positioned and sized to remove maximum weight while maintaining the strength required for the centering device to perform its function
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel hub (1) having a radially extending wheel flange (17) which has fastening holes (3), having a cylindrical projection which extends from the wheel flange (17) axially on the vehicle side and which serves for at least partially receiving a rolling bearing, and having a centering device which is mounted axially on the wheel side. A high rigidity of the wheel hub (1) and/or of the wheel bearing unit is realized with little material usage. One possibility arises by the centering device of a wheel hub being regarded as the product of the compromise between rigidity and possible material removal. In this regard, a particular arrangement of the webs that form the centering device is provided which leads to a particularly advantageous solution, specifically by virtue of the webs (7) being oriented in the same radial direction (A, B) as the fastening holes (3) of the wheel flange (17).