Vehicle Wheel Rim Holding Device with Elastic Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding devices for vehicle wheel rims on balancing machines face issues with inaccurate coupling due to constructional tolerances, require additional frictional coupling elements that increase complexity and maintenance, and have limited radial movement and locking mechanism reproducibility.
Innovation Solution
A holding device with a base plate, rotatably mounted retaining elements, a synchronization element, and a locking element, featuring form-fitting coupling with elastic coupling portions to eliminate the need for frictional coupling, allowing for precise positioning and adjustable locking positions, thereby reducing maintenance and increasing adaptability across different rim sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If frictional coupling elements (e.g., rubber O-ring) are added to support form-fitting coupling between sun wheel and planetary wheels, then coupling accuracy is improved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the frictional coupling element (O-ring) from the system while maintaining coupling accuracy through improved form-fitting coupling design. The extraction of this unnecessary component simplifies the device structure and reduces maintenance needs while preserving the essential coupling function through precise gear tooth engagement.
2Reliability
If frictional coupling elements are added to ensure accurate coupling, then coupling reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to increased construction complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the frictional coupling element, thereby simplifying manufacturing processes and reducing construction complexity. The coupling reliability is maintained through precise form-fitting gear engagement without requiring additional components that would complicate assembly and manufacturing.
3Manufacturing precision
If frictional coupling elements are used, then coupling accuracy is improved, but maintenance requirements and costs increase due to wear and replacement needs
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the frictional coupling element (O-ring) that is subject to wear, the patent eliminates the need for periodic maintenance and replacement of this component. The form-fitting coupling between gear teeth provides sustained accuracy without the degradation issues associated with frictional elements.
4Volume of moving object
If planetary wheels are made smaller to reduce device size, then device compactness is improved, but radial movement range of retaining elements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable support plate that can shift radially, allowing the retaining elements to achieve greater radial movement range without increasing the overall device volume. This dynamic adjustment mechanism enables the system to adapt its radial span while maintaining a compact form factor through controlled movement of the support structure.
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
The solution provides a more convenient, cost-effective, and efficient holding device with reduced maintenance needs, ensuring accurate coupling and precise positioning of the retaining elements, thus improving the balancing operation's accuracy and adaptability to various rim sizes.
Implementation Method 1
Any one of the synchronization element or at least one of the plurality of retaining elements comprises an elastic coupling portion, wherein the elastic coupling portion biases the corresponding coupling portions of the synchronization element and at least one of the plurality of retaining elements towards each other for ensuring the form-fitting coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A holding device for a rim of a vehicle wheel, comprising a base plate, a plurality of retaining elements, a synchronization element, and a locking element for locking a rotational position of at least one of the plurality of retaining elements or the synchronization element. The plurality of retaining elements and the synchronization element comprise corresponding coupling portions for form-fitting coupling of the rotational movement of the plurality of retaining elements and the synchronization element. Any one of the synchronization element or at least one of the plurality of retaining elements comprises an elastic coupling portion, biasing the corresponding coupling portions of the synchronization element and the retaining elements towards each other for ensuring the form-fitting coupling of the synchronization element and the plurality of retaining elements.