Browse Publications Technical Papers 2024-01-2225
2024-04-09

Fully Retractable Easy Access Spare Wheel Carrier Mechanism for Commercial Vehicles 2024-01-2225

The new idea discussed in this paper pertains to the carrier mechanism for spare wheels in heavy commercial vehicles. Typically, these vehicles are equipped with a spare wheel carrier featuring a rope mechanism for loading and unloading the spare wheel. The conventional placement of this system is on the side of the frame/chassis or within the limits of the side member. However, the tire-changing process in this system is often arduous, time-consuming, and requires significant effort. The proposed invention addresses these challenges by repositioning the spare wheel to a vertical orientation, facilitating easier access to its bolts and simplifying the removal process from the mountings. Furthermore, the innovation incorporates a three-way actuation system (Air Actuated, Electric motor-driven, or Hydraulic cylinder actuated mechanisms), thereby reducing the need for manual effort and enhancing driver comfort. The advantages of this invention over traditional carrier mechanisms include no reduction in cargo space, applicability to various truck configurations, user-friendly operation, and reduced time consumption. The linkage design is optimized to ensure an optimal distance between the wheels, propeller shaft, cargo body, and the ground plane during the loading or unloading of the tire. This novel mechanism not only streamlines the design and operation but also minimizes the effort and time required to remove a spare tire.

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