Wheel Hub Retainer for Pre-Assembly Component Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of wheel hub systems is complicated by the need for manual alignment and holding of components before bolt insertion, as existing solutions like retaining diaphragms or springs only assist after the bolt is inserted, requiring additional steps and operators.
Innovation Solution
A hub assembly with a through-hole and circumferential groove configuration, utilizing a retainer such as a circlip to hold the joint component in proper alignment with the hub assembly's teeth before bolt insertion, ensuring teeth engagement and secure assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a bolt is used to secure the hub assembly and joint component, then the components are securely held together, but the components cannot be properly aligned before bolt insertion without additional operators or devices
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is installed on the projection before the hub assembly and joint component are joined together. This preliminary action holds the components in proper alignment before the bolt is inserted, eliminating the need for additional operators or devices during assembly. The retainer performs the alignment function in advance, before the final securing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer acts as an intermediary component between the projection and the hub assembly. It provides a mechanical means to maintain proper alignment and positioning of the teeth during assembly, mediating the connection process without requiring external operators or additional alignment devices.
2Ease of operation
If retaining diaphragms or springs are used to assist alignment, then components are urged toward each other, but alignment assistance is only provided after bolt insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is installed and performs the alignment function before the bolt is inserted, unlike retaining diaphragms or springs that only assist after bolt insertion. This preliminary alignment action eliminates the need for additional assembly steps and operators, reducing overall assembly time.
3Manufacturing precision
If components are held together manually during assembly, then proper tooth alignment is achieved, but additional operators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer provides a self-service alignment mechanism that is integrated into the assembly itself. Once installed on the projection, it automatically maintains proper tooth alignment without requiring external operators to hold the components together. The assembly structure itself provides the alignment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer serves as a mechanical intermediary that replaces the need for manual holding by operators. It provides continuous, reliable alignment assistance throughout the assembly process, ensuring precise tooth alignment without human intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel hub system is disclosed. The wheel hub system has a hub assembly, a joint component, and a threaded bolt. The hub assembly has a hub having a though-hole, a circumferential groove formed in the through-hole, and a first support surface having a first plurality of teeth. The hub assembly also has a bearing unit positioned on the hub. The joint component is secured to the hub assembly and has a projection positioned in the through-hole and having a threaded bore and a retainer positioned in the circumferential groove. The joint component also has a second support surface having a second plurality of teeth operatively engaging the first plurality of teeth. The retainer positions the hub assembly and the joint component relative to each other during assembly. The threaded bolt is positioned in the threaded bore and secures the hub assembly in the position.