Wheel Assembly Locking Element with Concealed Tool Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel mounting assemblies for wheeled products often require manual effort for both mounting and dismounting, lacking a mechanism for easy tool-assisted disengagement that is not visually apparent.
Innovation Solution
A wheel assembly with a locking element featuring flexible portions for engaging the wheel and axle, allowing manual mounting and tool-assisted disengagement, where the tool access is concealed from view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual mounting and dismounting mechanisms are used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is segmented into distinct functional portions: a first portion that engages the wheel hub and a second portion that engages the axle groove. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall mounting mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element incorporates flexible portions that can dynamically change shape during mounting and dismounting operations. The flexible second portion can be deformed by tool application to release the axle engagement, providing an easy dismounting mechanism without complex components.
2Ease of operation
If tool-assisted disengagement mechanism is added, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element's flexible second portion is designed to self-release when subjected to tool application. The tool simply needs to apply force to deform the flexible portion, and the locking mechanism automatically releases without requiring additional components or complex actuation systems.
3Shape
If concealed tool access is implemented, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The tool access feature is nested within the locking element structure itself. The tool can be inserted through an opening in the locking element to reach the flexible second portion, allowing concealed access that maintains aesthetic appearance while preserving ease of operation.
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 easy and secure mounting of wheels to axles with the option for tool-assisted disengagement, enhancing usability and convenience in handling wheeled products.
Implementation Method 1
the element having first means in the opening engaging the wheel and detent second means for releasably engaging the axle for mounting the wheel to the axle; the second means being flexible to enable the second means to be released for engagement with the axle
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel assembly for mounting to an axle of a wheeled product includes a wheel having an opening and a locking element which is insertable in the opening to secure the wheel to the axle. The locking element has a portion engaging the wheel and a second flexible portion for releasably engaging the axle. The locking element is so constructed as to allow a tool to be inserted therethrough for releasing engagement between the wheel assembly from the axle.