Wheel Hub Proximity Sensor for Wheel Loss Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for preventing wheel loss from vehicles, such as nut locking systems and nut movement indication systems, are ineffective in detecting wheel detachment during vehicle motion and can be easily detached, leading to potential accidents.
Innovation Solution
A device mounted on the wheel rim that detects proximity to the wheel hub and sends an alarm signal to the driver if the wheel starts to detach, using a detector and transmitter system, allowing for identification of the specific wheel at risk and alerting the driver to take corrective action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nut locking systems or nut movement indication systems are used, then wheel security is improved, but the ability to detect wheel detachment during vehicle motion is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical nut locking systems and visual indication systems with an electronic detection system comprising a detector and transmitter. The detector monitors wheel-hub proximity and the transmitter sends alarm signals to the driver's cabin, enabling real-time detection of wheel detachment during vehicle motion without relying on mechanical locking mechanisms or visual inspections.
2Loss of information
If visual inspection systems are used to detect loose wheel nuts, then indication capability is improved, but the system cannot be observed within the vehicle cabin
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication system consisting of a transmitter mounted on the wheel and a receiver in the driver's cabin. The transmitter detects wheel-hub proximity and transmits alarm signals wirelessly or via wiring to the cabin receiver, enabling the driver to receive real-time alerts about wheel loosening without needing to visually inspect the wheels.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple mounting systems are used for detection devices, then ease of installation is improved, but the devices can easily become detached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the curved surface of the wheel rim as a mounting substrate for the detector and transmitter. The device is positioned to abut against the wheel rim, leveraging the wheel's cylindrical geometry to maintain secure contact during rotation and vibration, while still allowing for relatively simple installation compared to more complex mounting structures.
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
Enables the driver to address wheel detachment issues before they lead to accidents by providing timely alerts during vehicle motion, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of wheel loss-related incidents.
Implementation Method 1
A detector is provided for detecting a proximity of the device to the wheel hub
Implementation Method 2
the device indirectly abuts a wheel hub of an axle to which the wheel is attached
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A device and method for detecting wheel loss from a vehicle when the vehicle is in motion. The device (1) is provided with a housing (11) configured for, in use, mounting the device to a wheel (3) such that the device (1) abuts a wheel hub (5) of an axle to which the wheel is attached. A detector (6) is provided for detecting a proximity of the device (1) to the wheel hub (5), and a transmitter (8) is provided for sending an alarm signal in the event that the detector (6) detects that the device (1) is no longer in proximity to the wheel hub (5). In this way, if the wheel starts to become detached from the wheel hub, the detector (1) detects this and can send an alarm to, for example, a receiver unit in the drivers cabin, allowing the driver to take appropriate steps.