Vehicle Wheel Spoke Connection Segmented Eyelet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spoke connections in vehicle wheels, particularly for tubeless tire applications, face challenges such as weak connections due to flexible materials, limited geometric constraints, and increased stress concentrations, which compromise the strength and durability of the spoke-rim interface.
Innovation Solution
A blind connection using an expandable multi-piece connecting element that can be installed without piercing the tire bed, allowing for a robust and geometrically flexible connection between the spoke and the rim or hub, utilizing discreet segments that can be assembled sequentially to maximize overlap and minimize hole size, thereby enhancing strength and reducing stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single-piece flexible eyelet is used for spoke connection, then the eyelet can be installed with flexure, but the material strength is reduced and the connection becomes weaker
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into multiple discrete segments that can flex independently during installation, while the collective structure maintains high strength. Each segment can deform to accommodate installation geometry constraints, yet the assembled segments form a rigid connection that resists spoke tension loads effectively.
2Device complexity
If a one-piece eyelet design is used, then the structure is simple, but the geometric constraints limit the depth of lateral overlap and engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element consists of multiple segments that can be assembled sequentially, allowing each segment to contribute to the lateral overlap and engagement depth. This segmented approach overcomes the geometric limitations of a single-piece design, enabling deeper engagement with the rim and spoke while maintaining structural integrity.
3Device complexity
If a single overlie engagement is used, then the design is simple, but a large laterally projected area is required to resist spoke tension loads
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element uses multiple segments that distribute the spoke tension loads across several engagement points rather than requiring a single large overlie area. Each segment contributes to the load resistance, allowing the connection to resist high spoke tension loads with a more compact geometry that requires less lateral area.
4Ease of operation
If the tire bed is pierced for spoke access, then the spoke connection is simplified, but the tubeless tire seal is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element acts as an intermediary that enables spoke installation without requiring direct piercing of the tire bed. The segments can be assembled sequentially through accessible openings or installed from the rim interior, mediating between the spoke attachment requirement and the tire seal integrity requirement.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle wheel, comprising a rim, a hub, a plurality of spokes extending between the rim and hub, a bracing element including a hole with a central axis, a sidewall, a longitudinally inward entrance, and at least one of an engagement surface and an engagement edge outward of the entrance, a connecting element comprising a multiplicity of discreet segments. The bracing element comprises at least a portion of one of the rim and hub. At least one segment includes a laterally projecting overhanging surface. The first segment is positioned within the hole, with the overhang surface overlying one of the engagement surface and engagement edge in an overlie engagement. The second segment is positioned within the hole to include an opening between the first and second segments. The spoke is positioned within the opening and is connected to the connecting element with the overlie engagement to support spoke tensile load.