Self-Adjusting Wheel Tie-Down for Variable Tire Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel tie-down systems are not adaptable to different sized tires, often requiring manual manipulation of strap lengths and can be incompatible with various tire sizes, leading to potential movement and instability during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A self-adjusting wheel tie-down system featuring first and second loops, a tread engaging strap with a length adjusting mechanism, and sidewall engaging straps that automatically adjust to secure tires of varying sizes by shortening the tread strap length, which raises the first ring and increases the path length between loops, allowing the sidewall straps to engage the tire sidewalls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If fixed length side straps are used to prevent lateral movement, then lateral stability is improved, but adaptability to different tire sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The side straps are made adjustable in length, transforming from fixed to dynamic configuration. This allows the straps to adapt to different tire widths while maintaining lateral stability through proper tensioning on various tire sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The length parameter of the side straps is made variable through adjustment mechanisms. By changing the strap length parameter, the system can accommodate different tire dimensions while maintaining the stabilizing function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual manipulation of strap lengths is required to fit different tires, then adaptability to different tire sizes is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tie-down system performs self-adjustment through the mechanical interaction between the tread strap and rings. When the tread strap is tightened, it automatically adjusts the side strap lengths through the ring mechanism, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and making the system easy to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The side straps are pre-configured to pass through the rings, creating a mechanical linkage that automatically performs the adjustment function. This preliminary arrangement enables the system to self-adjust without requiring user intervention for length manipulation.
3Length of stationary object
If the tread strap length is shortened to raise the first ring, then the path length from the second loop to the first ring increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The side straps are positioned through the rings, creating a nested configuration where the straps pass through the ring structures. This nesting arrangement allows the mechanical linkage to function with simple geometric relationships, avoiding complex adjustment mechanisms while achieving the desired path length increase.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-adjusting tie down for securing a tire on a wheel to a platform having first and second loops attached thereto includes a first ring and a second ring spaced from the first ring. A tread engaging strap is configured to engage the tread surface of the tire, the tread strap being attached to the first ring proximate a first end and positioned through the second ring, where the tread engaging strap includes a length adjusting mechanism attached to a second end and a first securing mechanism configured to engage the first loop attached to the platform. The tie down includes first and second sidewall engaging straps configured to engage the left and right sidewalls of the tire, each of the first and second sidewall engaging straps attached to the second ring proximate a first and positioned through the first ring, each of the first and second sidewall engaging straps comprising a second securing mechanism configured to engage the second loop attached to the platform.