Vehicle Wheel Hub Control Valve Assembly with Integrated Filter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing central tire inflation systems (CTIS) are bulky, heavy, and adversely affect wheel styling, making them unsuitable for aesthetically conscious vehicles like passenger cars, and require complex integration with vehicle axles.
Innovation Solution
A control valve assembly with a filter system and compliant materials for improved air flow and durability, integrated into a vehicle wheel assembly that allows for easy maintenance and secure mounting within a wheel hub, featuring a locking mechanism and grip for tool-free installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a filter is added to the control valve assembly, then the working life is extended by preventing foreign object entry, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is integrated into the control valve assembly by forming the mounting formation as an integral part of the valve body, combining two separate components (filter and control valve) into a single unified assembly that functions together as one unit
Solution Approach 2:
The filter acts as an intermediary component positioned between the compressed air supply and the control valve, capturing foreign objects before they can enter and damage the valve mechanism
2Ease of repair
If the mounting formation is made removable and replaceable, then ease of maintenance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control valve assembly is segmented into separable components, with the mounting formation designed as a distinct removable unit that can be independently detached from the valve body, allowing selective maintenance of individual components
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting formation transitions from a fixed permanent attachment to a dynamic removable connection, enabling the filter and mounting formation to be easily detached and reattached as needed for maintenance operations
3Volume of moving object
If the control valve assembly is made compact, then wheel styling is improved, but the volume available for filtering reduces
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element utilizes a thin disc-shaped structure with diagonal orientation, providing adequate filtering surface area while maintaining a compact footprint that fits within constrained wheel assembly space
Solution Approach 2:
The filter disc is oriented diagonally rather than parallel to the air flow, utilizing three-dimensional space more efficiently to maximize filtering surface area within the limited radial and axial dimensions of the compact valve assembly
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
Enhances the operational life of the control valve assembly by preventing foreign object entry, reduces maintenance complexity, and ensures secure air delivery to tires while maintaining aesthetic and structural integrity of the vehicle wheels.
Implementation Method 1
the control valve includes a filter for filtering air moving between the supply line and the transfer line
Data Source
AI summary
A control valve assembly that includes: an inlet for receiving compressed air from a supply line; an outlet for supplying compressed air to a transfer line; and a control valve for selectively placing the inlet in fluid communication with the outlet. The control valve assembly is configured to be removably disposed in a wheel hub. In addition, the control valve has a filter for filtering air moving between the supply line and the transfer line.