Wheel Quick Coupling With Rotational Locking for Fast Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional vehicle-to-wheel couplings are complex and hinder efficient exchange and disengagement of wheels, often requiring intricate drive trains that complicate the connection between vehicle wheels and frames.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system comprising a coupling and a coupling receiver that allows for easy interfacing and locking mechanisms, enabling quick and efficient attachment and detachment of wheels to a vehicle frame through translational motions, with optional electrical interconnects for power and signal transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional drive trains are used to connect vehicle wheels and frames, then power transmission is achieved, but device complexity increases and wheel exchange efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly is segmented into a modular unit comprising the wheel, hub, and coupling mechanism that can be independently attached and detached from the vehicle frame. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex drive trains while enabling rapid wheel exchange through simple coupling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection between wheel and frame, enables rapid attachment/detachment, and eliminates the need for separate drive train components. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining wheel exchange efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used, then structural connection is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult engagement and disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism includes pre-positioned coupling ears and corresponding receivers that are prepared in advance for quick engagement. The alignment features and guide surfaces are pre-configured to automatically guide the coupling components into proper position during attachment, eliminating time-consuming manual alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates movable locking components that can quickly transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic capability allows rapid engagement and disengagement of wheels without requiring complex manual operations or specialized tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rigid fixed connections are used between wheel and frame, then rotational stability is achieved, but adaptability deteriorates for quick wheel changes
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic system that can rapidly switch between connected and disconnected states. The movable locking components enable the connection to be securely established when engaged while allowing quick release when needed, providing both stability during operation and adaptability for wheel changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism includes self-aligning features and guide surfaces that automatically position the coupling components correctly during engagement. This self-service capability ensures proper alignment and stable connection without requiring complex external alignment procedures or specialized installation tools.
Data Source
AI summary
Mechanisms are disclosed for releasably attaching a wheel to a vehicle in a position where the wheel supports a weight of the vehicle. An illustrative quick connect system is described to include a wheel, a vehicle frame, and a coupling system that releasably attaches the wheel to the vehicle frame. The coupling system, when in a coupled state, may substantially prevent or oppose rotation between a wheel core and the vehicle frame.