Patent Description:
Some wheel assemblies for vehicles include a retaining ring intended to help retain a tire on the wheel assembly. For example, wheel assemblies for mounting particularly large tires may include a retaining ring to assist with retaining the tire on the wheel assembly. However, it has been found that at least some such retaining rings may be difficult to remove. In addition, some such retaining rings may be relatively large, heavy, and cumbersome for an individual to handle, for example, during removal from the wheel assembly or installation onto the wheel assembly. The wheel assemblies, lock-rings, handles, and/or related methods described herein may be directed to addressing one or more of these possible drawbacks. <CIT> relates to a locking configuration for a wheel rim flange retaining ring. <CIT> relates to a locking ring assembly for a wheel rim assembly.

According to a first aspect, there is provided a lock-ring system according to claim <NUM>. The lock ring system includes a lock-ring section configured to at least partially define an annular lock-ring and define a curved longitudinal axis extending along a length of the lock-ring section between a first ring section end and a second ring section end. The lock-ring section defines a ring cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the ring cross-section includes a ring outer surface and a ring inner surface opposite the ring outer surface. One of the ring inner surface or the ring outer surface may define a ring recess configured to at least partially receive a coupler plate. The ring cross-section also defines a first ring side wall and a second ring side wall opposite the first ring side wall. The lock-ring section includes a ring aperture defined adjacent the first ring section end and extending between one of: (<NUM>) the first ring side wall and the second ring side wall, or (<NUM>) the ring outer surface and the ring inner surface. The lock-ring section also includes a ring aperture defined adjacent the second ring section end and extending between one of: (<NUM>) the first ring side wall and the second ring side wall, or (<NUM>) the ring outer surface and the ring inner surface.

The lock-ring system further includes a coupler plate configured to couple the first ring section end to one of the second ring section end or a ring section end of a second lock-ring section. The coupler plate includes a plate outer surface, a plate inner surface opposite the plate outer surface, a first plate side wall, and a second plate side wall opposite the first plate side wall. The coupler plate defines a coupler slot extending between one of: (<NUM>) the first plate side wall and the second plate side wall, or (<NUM>) the plate outer surface and the plate inner surface. The coupler plate is configured to be received in the ring recess of the lock-ring section.

According to a further aspect, there is provided a lock-ring section according to claim <NUM>. The lock-ring section is configured to at least partially form an annular lock-ring. The lock-ring section defines a curved longitudinal axis extending along a length of the lock-ring section between a first ring section end and a second ring section end. The lock-ring section further defines a ring cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ring cross-section includes a ring outer surface and a ring inner surface opposite the ring outer surface. One of the ring inner surface or the ring outer surface may define a ring recess configured to at least partially receive a coupler plate. The ring cross-section further includes a first ring side wall and a second ring side wall opposite the first ring side wall. The lock-ring section includes a ring aperture defined adjacent the first ring section end and extending between one of: (<NUM>) the first ring side wall and the second ring side wall, or (<NUM>) the ring outer surface and the ring inner surface. The lock-ring section further includes a ring aperture defined adjacent the second ring section end and extending between one of: (<NUM>) the first ring side wall and the second ring side wall, or (<NUM>) the ring outer surface and the ring inner surface.

Also disclosed herein is a coupler plate that may be configured to couple a first ring section end of a lock-ring section to one of a second ring section end of the lock-ring section or a ring section end of a second lock-ring section. The coupler plate may include a plate outer surface, a plate inner surface opposite the plate inner surface, a first plate side wall, and a second plate side wall opposite the first plate side wall. The coupler plate may define a coupler slot extending between one of: (<NUM>) the first plate side wall and the second plate side wall, or (<NUM>) the plate outer surface and the plate inner surface. The coupler plate may be configured to be received in at least one of a first ring recess of the first ring end section or a second ring recess of the one of the second ring section of the lock-ring section or the ring end section of a second lock-ring section.

According to still another aspect, there is provided a method for separating opposing lock-ring ends from one another according to claim <NUM>. The method includes loosening a first fastener coupling a first end of a coupler plate to a first opposing lock-ring end, sliding the first end of the coupler plate relative to the first opposing lock-ring end, thereby causing separation of the first opposing lock-ring end from a second opposing lock-ring end, and engaging a handle including a handle body with the coupler plate, such that the coupler plate maintains the separation of the first opposing lock-ring end from the second opposing lock-ring end.

In the figures, the same reference numbers in different figures indicate similar or identical items.

The present invention is generally directed to lock-rings for wheel assemblies, handles engageable with lock-rings, and related methods. As noted previously herein, it has been found that at least some retaining rings for assisting with retaining a tire on a wheel assembly may be difficult to remove. In addition, some such retaining rings may be relatively large, heavy, and cumbersome for an individual to handle, for example, during removal from the wheel assembly or installation onto the wheel assembly.

In some examples described herein, the lock-ring may include ring section ends configured to be coupled to one another via a coupler plate. The lock-ring and/or coupler plate may be configured, such that one or more fasteners coupling the lock-ring plate and the opposing ring section ends to one another are relatively more protected from damage and/or dirt relative to other configurations. The lock-ring and/or coupler plate may provide a relatively lower profile that may be relatively less prone to catch other portions of the wheel assembly and/or tire relative to other configurations.

In some examples described herein, the lock-ring, coupler plate, and/or handle may facilitate servicing and/or removal of the lock-ring by a single person and/or improved ease of servicing and/or removal by more than one person. The lock-ring and/or coupler plates may reduce and/or eliminate the necessity of separating the coupler plate from the lock-ring when removing the lock-ring from a wheel assembly. In particular, the handle may provide an ability to maintain separation of two opposing ring section ends of a lock-ring. In addition, the coupler plate and/or the handle may provide a place to retain one or more fasteners used to couple opposing ring section ends, for example, to prevent unintentional misplacement of the fasteners while a lock-ring is loosened from around a rim and/or separated from a wheel assembly. The handle may provide relatively safe handling of the lock-ring during loosening and/or separation from the wheel assembly.

<FIG> is a schematic exploded perspective view showing an example tire <NUM> and wheel assembly <NUM> for a machine <NUM> with the tire <NUM> mounted on the wheel assembly <NUM>, which, in turn, may be mounted to the machine <NUM>, for example, to a chassis of the machine <NUM>. The tire <NUM>, the wheel assembly <NUM>, and/or the machine <NUM> may be intended exclusively for off-road use, for both off-road and on-road use, and/or exclusively for on-road use. For example, the machine <NUM> may include any type of ground-borne machine or vehicle configured to travel across terrain, such as, for example, a construction machine, a mining machine, a truck, an agricultural vehicle, an automobile, an on-highway truck, an off-highway truck, and/or any other machine known to a person skilled in the art. The tire <NUM> may be a pneumatic tire, a non-pneumatic tire, and/or a tire at least partially filled with one or more materials other than fluid or gas.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the example tire <NUM> and wheel assembly <NUM> may define an inner side <NUM> configured to be adjacent a chassis of the machine <NUM> and/or another tire and wheel assembly located inboard relative to the tire <NUM> and wheel assembly <NUM>, for example, in a dual-tire/dual-wheel arrangement, and an outer side <NUM> configured to face outwardly relative to the machine <NUM> and/or another tire and wheel assembly located outboard relative to tire <NUM> and wheel assembly <NUM>. In the example shown, the wheel assembly <NUM> includes a rim base <NUM> about which an inner circumference of the tire <NUM> may be mounted. The example wheel assembly <NUM> also includes an inner side ring <NUM> and an outer side ring <NUM> provided on opposite sides of the wheel assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic quarter section view of the example tire <NUM> and the example wheel assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, and <FIG> is a schematic partial section view of the tire <NUM> and wheel assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, when the tire <NUM> is mounted on the wheel assembly <NUM>, an inner side wall <NUM> and opposing outer side wall <NUM> of the tire <NUM> are retained on the rim base <NUM> between the inner side ring <NUM> and the outer side ring <NUM>. In some examples, the tire <NUM> may be a pneumatic tire, and when air and/or another fluid or gas is supplied to the tire <NUM>, pressure inside the tire <NUM> causes the inner side wall <NUM> and outer side wall <NUM> to press against the inner side ring <NUM> and the outer side ring <NUM>, respectively.

In the example shown, the inner side of the rim base includes an annular bead flange <NUM> configured to retain the inner side ring <NUM>, such that the inner side ring <NUM> is retained between the bead flange <NUM> and the inner side wall <NUM> of the tire <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the example wheel assembly <NUM> also includes a bead seat band <NUM> configured to retain the outer side ring <NUM> against the outer side wall <NUM> of the tire <NUM>, and a lock ring <NUM> configured to secure the bead seat band <NUM> in position on the rim base <NUM>, such that the outer side ring <NUM> resists outward movement of the outer side wall <NUM> of the tire <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the wheel assembly <NUM> may also include an O-ring seal <NUM> received in complimentary annular grooves <NUM> in opposing faces of the bead seat band <NUM> and the lock-ring <NUM>.

During mounting of the example tire <NUM> on the example wheel assembly <NUM>, in some examples, the lock-ring <NUM>, the bead seat band <NUM>, and the inner side ring <NUM> are separated from the rim base <NUM>. The inner side ring <NUM> is slid onto the outer side of the wheel assembly <NUM>, across the rim base <NUM>, and toward the bead flange <NUM> until the inner side ring <NUM> abuts the bead flange <NUM>. Thereafter, in some examples, the tire <NUM> may be slid onto the outer side <NUM> of the wheel assembly <NUM>, such that the inner circumference of the tire <NUM> is mounted around the rim base <NUM> and such that the inner side wall <NUM> approaches and/or abuts the inner side ring <NUM>. Without pressure in the tire, for example, when the tire <NUM> is a pneumatic tire, the outer side wall <NUM> may be pressed toward the inner side wall <NUM>. Thereafter, the outer side ring <NUM> may be placed around the rim base <NUM>, and the bead seat band <NUM> may be inserted into the inner circumference of the outer side ring <NUM>, between the outer side ring <NUM> and the rim base <NUM>. The outer side of the rim base <NUM> may define an annular rim base groove <NUM> configured to receive a complimentary protrusion <NUM> of the lock-ring <NUM>, which, as described herein, may be configured to facilitate positioning of the lock-ring <NUM>, such that the protrusion <NUM> is received in the rim base groove <NUM>, thereby preventing the tire <NUM> from being able to slide off the rim base <NUM> toward the outer side of the wheel assembly <NUM> without first separating the lock-ring <NUM> from the rim base <NUM>.

For example, <FIG> is a schematic detailed section view of a portion of the example tire <NUM> and wheel assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG> showing a detailed section view of an example lock-ring section <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in some examples, the rim base groove <NUM> includes a radial groove portion <NUM>, and the protrusion <NUM> includes a corresponding radial protrusion portion <NUM>. The radial groove portion <NUM> and the radial protrusion portion <NUM> provide a contact surface between the rim base groove <NUM> and the protrusion <NUM> of the lock-ring <NUM>.

During removal of the tire <NUM> from the wheel assembly <NUM>, pressure is released from the tire <NUM> (e.g., if it is a pneumatic tire), and the lock-ring <NUM> may be separated from the rim base <NUM>, for example, as described herein, facilitating removal of the bead seat band <NUM> and the outer side ring <NUM> from the rim base <NUM>. Thereafter, the tire <NUM> may slide outward across the width of the rim base <NUM> and be separated from the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, if the tire <NUM> and wheel assembly <NUM> are outboard relative to an inboard tire and wheel assembly, the inner side ring <NUM> may be removed from the rim base <NUM> by sliding it outward toward the outer side of the rim base <NUM> and separating it from the rim base <NUM>. Thereafter, in some examples, the tire of the inboard tire and wheel assembly may be separated from the inboard wheel assembly by removing the associated lock-ring, bead seat band, and outer side ring from the inboard rim base, so that the inboard tire can slide off the inboard rim base, across the outboard rim base <NUM> and be separated from the outboard wheel assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic side view of an example lock-ring system <NUM> including two example lock-ring sections <NUM> and two example coupler plates <NUM> coupling the two lock-ring sections <NUM> to one another and including a detailed perspective partial section view of one of the two example coupler plates <NUM>. Other numbers of lock-ring sections <NUM> and coupler plates <NUM> are contemplated including, for example, one lock-ring section <NUM> and one coupler plate <NUM> coupling opposing ring section ends <NUM> to one another, and more than two lock-ring sections <NUM> and more than two coupler plates <NUM> coupling multiple opposing ring section ends <NUM> to one another to form a single lock-ring <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the example lock-ring <NUM> shown includes an example lock-ring system <NUM>. The example lock-ring system <NUM> shown includes two lock-ring sections <NUM>. One or more of the lock-ring sections <NUM> may be configured to at least partially define an annular lock-ring <NUM> and a curved longitudinal axis R extending along a length of the lock-ring section <NUM> between a first ring section end 48a and a second ring section end 48b. In some examples, one or more of the lock-ring sections <NUM> may define a ring cross-section <NUM> perpendicular to the longitudinal axis R. The ring cross-section <NUM> may include a ring outer surface <NUM> and a ring inner surface <NUM> opposite the ring outer surface <NUM>. The ring inner surface <NUM> or the ring outer surface <NUM> may define a ring recess <NUM> configured to at least partially receive the coupler plate <NUM>. In some examples, the ring cross-section <NUM> may also define a first ring side wall <NUM> and a second ring side wall <NUM> opposite the first ring side wall <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the example ring inner surface <NUM> defines the protrusion <NUM> configured to engage the rim base groove <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>). For example, the protrusion <NUM> may extend substantially continuously and/or intermittently along the length of a respective lock-ring section <NUM>. In some examples, the ring recess <NUM> may be defined between the first ring side wall <NUM> and the second ring side wall <NUM>. In some examples, the ring recess <NUM> may be at least partially defined by the ring inner surface <NUM>. In some examples, the ring recess <NUM> may be substantially enclosed, for example, such that at least a portion of the length of the lock-ring section <NUM> is substantially tubular.

In <FIG>, a portion of the first ring end section 48a (i.e., the first ring side wall <NUM>) has been omitted in order to show the interior of the example ring recess <NUM> of the first ring end section 48a. In some examples, one or more of the lock-ring sections <NUM> may include a ring aperture defined adjacent the first ring section end 48a and extending either between the first ring side wall <NUM> and the second ring side wall <NUM>, or between the ring outer surface <NUM> and the ring inner surface <NUM>. One or more of the lock-ring sections <NUM> may also include a ring aperture defined adjacent the second ring section end 48b and extending between either the first ring side wall <NUM> and the second ring side wall <NUM> or between the ring outer surface <NUM> and the ring inner surface <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, in some examples, the lock-ring system <NUM> may also include one or more coupler plates <NUM> (e.g., two coupler plates <NUM>) configured to couple the first ring section end 48a to the second ring section end 48b or a ring section end <NUM> of a second lock-ring section <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, one or more of the coupler plates <NUM> may include a plate outer surface <NUM>, a plate inner surface <NUM> opposite the plate outer surface <NUM>, a first plate side wall <NUM>, and a second plate side wall <NUM> opposite the first plate side wall <NUM>. In some examples, the one or more coupler plates <NUM> may define a coupler slot <NUM> extending either between the first plate side wall <NUM> and the second plate side wall <NUM>, or between the plate outer surface <NUM> and the plate inner surface <NUM>.

For example, as shown in <FIG>, the coupler plate <NUM> may define a curved coupler longitudinal axis C extending along a length of the coupler plate <NUM> between a first coupler end <NUM> and a second coupler end <NUM>. In the example shown, the coupler slot <NUM> extends along the coupler longitudinal axis C. In some examples, the coupler longitudinal axis C has a coupler radius of curvature substantially corresponding to a ring radius of curvature of the curved longitudinal axis R of the lock-ring section(s) <NUM>. In some examples, for example as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the coupler plate <NUM> may define a first coupler slot 74a and a second coupler slot 74b extending either between the first plate side wall <NUM> and the second plate side wall <NUM>, or between the plate outer surface <NUM> and the plate inner surface <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the first coupler slot 74a and the second coupler slot 74b extend between the first plate side wall <NUM> and the second plate side wall <NUM>. In some examples, the coupler plate <NUM> may be configured to be received in the ring recess <NUM> of one or more lock-ring sections <NUM> such that coupler plate <NUM> is essentially encapsulated within the one or more lock-ring sections <NUM> and protected from potential damage by or to the external working environment.

As explained in more detail with respect to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, some examples of the coupler plate <NUM> may also include first coupler aperture <NUM> and a second coupler aperture <NUM>, each configured to receive a fastener <NUM>. For example, first and second coupler apertures <NUM> and <NUM> may each include a first portion passing through the plate outer surface <NUM> and a second portion passing through the plate inner surface <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>. In some examples, the second portions of the first and second coupler apertures <NUM> and <NUM> may be internally threaded to engage with threads on the fasteners <NUM>. This example configuration may provide a location for retaining two of the fasteners <NUM>, once removed from the second ring apertures <NUM> of the ring section ends <NUM>, for example, when the ring section ends <NUM> are separated from one another to remove the lock-ring <NUM> from the rim base <NUM>. With the fasteners <NUM> in the first and second coupler apertures <NUM> and <NUM>, the fasteners <NUM> may serve to maintain a spacing between the ring section ends 48a and 48b sufficient to provide clearance for removal of the lock-ring <NUM> from the rim base <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the coupler plate <NUM> may have a length dimension sufficient for the opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b to be separated from one another, for example, with the fasteners <NUM> remaining in the respective first ring apertures <NUM> (and not the respective second ring apertures <NUM>), such that the lock-ring <NUM> may be removed from the rim base <NUM>. For example, the ring section ends 48a and 48b may be separated enough that the protrusions <NUM> of the lock-ring sections <NUM> clear the rim base groove <NUM> of the rim base <NUM>. In addition, in some examples, the coupler slots 74a and 74b may be dimensioned and positioned in the coupler plate <NUM> to provide the sufficient amount of separation between the first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b while two fasteners <NUM> remain in the respective first ring apertures <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in some examples, the lock-ring <NUM> may include two lock-ring sections <NUM> coupled to one another by two coupler plates <NUM>. In such examples, the fasteners <NUM> in the respective second ring apertures <NUM> may be removed, and the fasteners <NUM> in the first ring apertures <NUM> may be loosened to permit the respective first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b to slide outward relative to the coupler plate <NUM> as the fasteners <NUM> in the first ring apertures <NUM> slide down the respective coupler slots 74a and 74b, thereby separating the first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b from one another (see, e.g., <FIG>, <FIG>). The fasteners <NUM> received in the second ring apertures <NUM> may be placed in the first and second coupler apertures <NUM> and <NUM>, for example, as explained above, so that the separation between the first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b is maintained during handling of the lock-ring <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, the example coupler plate <NUM> may be configured to have a length extending from the first coupler end <NUM> to the second coupler end <NUM> so that the opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b are capable of being separated from one another an amount sufficient to remove the lock-ring <NUM> from the rim base <NUM>, for example, without removing the coupler plate <NUM> from the ring recesses <NUM> of the opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b. For example, the coupler plate <NUM> may have a length corresponding to a portion of the circumference of the lock-ring <NUM>, which may be expressed as, for example, a radial angle CL having a vertex at the center of the lock-ring <NUM>. For example, for a lock-ring <NUM> for a wheel assembly <NUM> having a <NUM>-inch diameter, the angle CL may be about <NUM> degrees, although other angles are contemplated and may depend on, for example, the diameter of the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, the angle CL may range from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, or from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees.

<FIG> are a schematic partial side view and a partial side section view of an example ring section end <NUM>. In the example shown, the ring section end <NUM> includes a first ring aperture <NUM> and a second ring aperture <NUM> extending between the first ring side wall <NUM> and the second ring side wall <NUM>. In some examples, the first ring aperture <NUM> may include a first aperture section <NUM> extending through either the first ring side wall <NUM> or the ring outer surface <NUM> (e.g., through the first ring side wall <NUM>, as shown). In some examples, the first ring aperture <NUM> may also include a second aperture section <NUM> extending into either the second ring side wall <NUM> or the ring inner surface <NUM> (e.g., through the second ring side wall <NUM>, as shown). In some examples, the first aperture section <NUM> defines a first hole <NUM> configured to receive a head portion <NUM> of a fastener <NUM> (e.g., a cap portion of a cap screw, see, e.g., <FIG>, or a rolled pin <NUM>, see, e.g., <FIG>), and the second aperture section <NUM> defines a second hole <NUM> defining an internal thread configured to engage threads of the fastener <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, 6A, and 6B and described above, some examples of the ring section ends <NUM> may include two or more ring apertures, for example, each having at least similar aperture sections.

As shown in <FIG>, a coupler plate <NUM> may be received in respective ring recesses <NUM> of opposing ring section ends <NUM>. The fasteners <NUM> may pass through the first aperture sections <NUM> of the ring section ends <NUM>, through the coupler slots <NUM>, and into the second apertures sections <NUM>, and, if threaded, tightened to secure the ring section ends <NUM> and the coupler plate <NUM> to one another. Opposing end faces of the opposing ring section ends <NUM> would be closely adjacent one another, for example, such that a resulting lock-ring <NUM> is secured tightly around the rim base <NUM> with the protrusion <NUM> of the lock-ring <NUM> received in the annular rim base groove <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>).

<FIG> is a schematic partial perspective view of an example lock-ring <NUM> engaged with an example rim base <NUM>, showing from the exterior an example coupler plate <NUM> coupling an example first ring section end 48a and an example second ring section end 48b to one another using four example fasteners <NUM>. As shown, in some examples, the head portions <NUM> of the fasteners <NUM> may be received in the respective holes <NUM>, such that the head portions <NUM> do not protrude relative to the first plate side wall <NUM> such that fasteners <NUM> are protected from potential damage from the external working environment. This example configuration may prevent the area of the lock-ring <NUM> in the vicinity of the coupler plate <NUM> from unintentionally catching on the tire <NUM>, other portions of the wheel assembly <NUM>, and/or on clothing, hands, or gloves of a person handling the lock-ring <NUM>.

<FIG> is a schematic partial perspective of the exterior of the example coupler plate <NUM> and first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b shown in <FIG>, with the first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b separated from one another. <FIG> are schematic partial perspective views of another example lock-ring <NUM>, showing two of four example fasteners <NUM> separated from the coupler plate <NUM> and ring section ends 48a and 48b (<FIG>), and with the first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b separated from one another and being held in place using the two removed fasteners <NUM> and the coupler plate <NUM>. For example, to loosen the lock-ring <NUM> and separate it from the rim base <NUM>, the fasteners <NUM> may be loosened, so that the coupler plate <NUM> is able to slide within one or more of the ring recesses <NUM> of the first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b. The two fasteners <NUM> located farthest from remote ends <NUM> of the first and second ring section ends 48a and 48b may be removed from the second ring apertures <NUM>, so that a separation <NUM> between the remote ends <NUM> may be increased to an amount sufficient to permit the lock-ring <NUM> to be slid off the rim base <NUM> and be separated therefrom.

In some examples, the two removed fasteners <NUM> may be used to maintain the separation <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>. For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the coupler plate <NUM> may include a first coupler aperture <NUM> extending perpendicular to the first coupler slot 74a and configured to receive a first one of the fasteners <NUM>. The first coupler aperture <NUM> may extend either between the first plate side wall <NUM> and the second plate side wall <NUM>, or between the plate outer surface <NUM> and the plate inner surface <NUM>. In addition, some examples of the coupler plate <NUM> may also include a second coupler aperture <NUM> extending perpendicular to the second coupler slot 74b and configured to receive a second one of the fasteners <NUM>. The second coupler aperture <NUM> may extend either between the first plate side wall <NUM> and the second plate side wall <NUM>, or between the plate outer surface <NUM> and the plate inner surface <NUM>.

In the example shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, the first and second coupler apertures <NUM> and <NUM> extend between the plate outer surface <NUM> and the plate inner surface <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, as explained above, the two removed fasteners <NUM> may be used to maintain the separation <NUM> between the remote ends <NUM> of the lock-ring sections <NUM> at an amount sufficient to permit the lock-ring <NUM> to slide off the rim base <NUM> and be separated therefrom.

Referring again to <FIG>, the distance between the first coupler aperture <NUM> and the second coupler aperture <NUM> may be configured such that when the respective fasteners <NUM> are received in the first and second coupler apertures <NUM> and <NUM>, the distance between the respective fasteners <NUM> is sufficient for the opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b of the lock-ring <NUM> to be separated from one another an amount sufficient to remove the lock-ring <NUM> from the rim base <NUM>, for example, without removing the coupler plate <NUM> from the ring recesses <NUM>. For example, the distance between the first and second coupler apertures correspond to a portion of the circumference of the lock-ring <NUM>, which may be expressed as, for example, a radial angle CA having a vertex at the center of the lock-ring <NUM>. For example, for a lock-ring <NUM> for a wheel assembly <NUM> having a <NUM>-inch diameter, the angle CA may be about <NUM> degrees, although other angles are contemplated and may depend on, for example, the diameter of the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, the angle CA may range from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, or from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees.

As shown in <FIG>, in some examples, the plate inner surface <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM> may include a beveled end <NUM> at one or more of the first and second coupler ends <NUM> and <NUM> of some examples of the coupler plate <NUM>. The beveled end(s) <NUM> may provide clearance for the coupler plate <NUM> to be received in the ring recesses <NUM> of opposing ring section ends <NUM>, and/or to allow the opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b to be separated from one another as described herein without separating the coupler plate <NUM> from the ring recesses <NUM>. For example, the beveled ends <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM> may have an angle CB measured relative to an end face <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM> parallel to a radial line extending through the center of the lock-ring <NUM>. For example, for a lock-ring <NUM> for a wheel assembly <NUM> having a <NUM>-inch diameter, the angle CB may be about <NUM> degrees, although other angles are contemplated and may depend on, for example, the diameter of the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, the angle CB may range from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, or from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees.

In some examples, for example, as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, the ring inner surface <NUM> of one or more of the ring section ends 48a or 48b may include a beveled end <NUM>. In some examples, this may provide clearance for the lock-ring sections <NUM> to slide relative to the rim base <NUM> while still being held together by the coupler plate <NUM>, for example, as shown <FIG>. For example, the beveled ends <NUM> of the ring section ends <NUM> may have an angle RB measured relative to a respective face corresponding to the remote end <NUM> of the ring section end <NUM> that is parallel to a radial line extending through the center of the lock-ring <NUM>. For example, for a lock-ring <NUM> for a wheel assembly <NUM> having a <NUM>-inch diameter, the angle RB may be about <NUM> degrees, although other angles are contemplated and may depend on, for example, the diameter of the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, the angle RB may range from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, or from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees. In some examples, as shown in <FIG>, the leading edge of the beveled end <NUM> may begin a distance D from the ring outer surface <NUM>, such that clearance is provided for the lock-ring sections <NUM> to slide relative to the rim base <NUM> while still held together by the coupler plate <NUM>. In other examples, the distance D may extend farther to increase the contact area between protrusion <NUM> of the lock-ring <NUM> and rim base groove <NUM>. For example, for a lock-ring <NUM> for a wheel assembly <NUM> having a <NUM>-inch diameter, the distance D may be about <NUM> millimeters (mm), although other dimensions are contemplated and may depend on, for example, the diameter of the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, the distance D may range from about <NUM> to about <NUM>, from about <NUM> to about <NUM>, or from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

In some examples, the beveled end <NUM> may be configured, such that at least a portion of the radial protrusion portion <NUM> of the protrusion <NUM> maintains a contact surface with the radial groove portion <NUM> of the rim base groove <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG>) substantially the entire circumference of the lock-ring <NUM>, for example, even where the beveled end <NUM> is provided at each of the ring section ends 48a and 48b.

As shown in <FIG>, some examples of the ring section end <NUM> may include a beveled edge <NUM> at a radially inward facing surface <NUM> of the ring recess <NUM> adjacent the remote end <NUM> of the ring section end <NUM>. In some examples, this may facilitate angular movement of the coupler plate <NUM> with respect to the respective ring recesses <NUM> of the opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b, for example, during assembly of the coupler plate <NUM> to the ring section ends 48a and 48b, and/or during separation of the ring section ends 48a and 48b from one another, for example, as explained herein. For example, the beveled edge <NUM> may have an angle RR measured relative to a respective face corresponding to the remote end <NUM> of the ring section end <NUM> that is parallel to a radial line extending through the center of the lock-ring <NUM>. For example, for a lock-ring <NUM> for a wheel assembly <NUM> having a <NUM>-inch diameter, the angle RR may be about <NUM> degrees, although other angles are contemplated and may depend on, for example, the diameter of the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, the angle RR may range from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees, or from about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees.

In some examples, for example, as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, the coupler plate <NUM> also includes a web <NUM> between the first coupler slot 74a and the second coupler slot 74b, for example, separating the first and second coupler slots 74a and 74b from one another.

<FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> show an example sequence of views depicting an example method for separating opposing ring section ends <NUM> from one another and an example handle <NUM> for assisting with the separation. As shown in <FIG>, the example handle <NUM> includes a handle body <NUM> extending between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. The example handle <NUM> also includes a first engagement fixture <NUM> adjacent the first end <NUM> and a second engagement fixture <NUM> adjacent the second end <NUM>. The first and second engagement fixtures <NUM> and <NUM> may be configured to engage at least a portion of a coupler plate <NUM> and/or opposing ring section ends <NUM> of the lock-ring <NUM>. The example handle <NUM> also includes a grip portion <NUM> coupled to the handle body <NUM> and configured to facilitate holding the handle <NUM>. In some examples, the grip portion <NUM> may have a surface configured to enhance a person's grip on the handle <NUM>. In some examples, the handle <NUM> may include more than one grip portion <NUM>, such as, for example, two or three grip portions <NUM> as discussed below with respect to <FIG> and <FIG>. Some such examples may improve the ease of handling the lock-ring <NUM> and/or lock-ring sections <NUM>.

In the example shown, in at least some examples, at least one of the first engagement fixture <NUM> or the second engagement fixture <NUM> may include a slot <NUM> configured to engage a coupler plate <NUM> configured to couple opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b to one another. For example, as shown in <FIG>, each of the first engagement fixture <NUM> and the second engagement fixture <NUM> include a slot 116a and 116b, respectively. For example, the slots 116a and 116b may be configured to engage the first and second coupler slots 74a and 74b, respectively, of the coupler plate <NUM>. In some examples, for example as shown, the first engagement fixture <NUM> includes a first slot 116a defining a first open end 118a facing a first direction, and the second engagement fixture <NUM> includes a second slot 116b defining a second open end 118b facing a second direction. In the example shown, the first direction and the second direction are opposite one another. In some examples, the first and second directions may be substantially the same or oblique with respect to one another.

As shown in <FIG>, for some examples of the handle <NUM>, the first end <NUM> may define a first stop portion <NUM>, and the second end <NUM> may define a second stop portion <NUM>. The first stop portion <NUM> and the second stop portion <NUM> may be configured to substantially maintain spacing or the separation <NUM> between the opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b, once the handle <NUM> is engaged with the coupler plate <NUM> and/or the opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b, for example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, some examples of the handle <NUM> may include a pin <NUM> coupled to the handle body <NUM> and configured to engage a hole <NUM> in the plate outer surface <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM>. For example, the pin <NUM> may be located on a side of the handle body <NUM> configured to abut the plate outer surface <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM>. As described herein, the pin <NUM> and hole <NUM> may assist with engaging the first and second engagement fixtures <NUM> and <NUM> of the handle <NUM> with the coupler plate <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the handle body <NUM> defines a handle body axis H and the grip portion <NUM> defines a grip axis G. In some examples of the handle <NUM>, the handle body axis H and the grip axis G are substantially parallel with respect to one another, for example, as shown in <FIG>. In some examples, the handle body axis H and the grip axis G are substantially orthogonal with respect to one another, for example, as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. In some examples, the handle body axis H and the grip axis G are oblique with respect to one another. The relative orientations of the handle body axis H and the grip axis G may be selected in order to provide ease of handling the lock-ring <NUM> and/or lock-ring sections <NUM>, for example, during servicing of the wheel assembly <NUM>. For examples including more than one grip portion <NUM>, one or more of the respective the grip axes G may be any combination of substantially orthogonal, substantially parallel, and oblique with respect to the handle body axis H. The relative orientations may be selected to enhance ease of handling the lock-ring <NUM> and/or the lock-ring sections <NUM>.

As noted above, <FIG> show an example sequence of views depicting an example method for separating opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b from one another and an example handle <NUM> for assisting with the separation. For example, the method may include loosening a first fastener <NUM> coupling the first coupler end <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM> to a first opposing ring section end 48a, and sliding the first coupler end <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM> relative to the first opposing ring section end 48a, thereby causing separation of the first opposing ring section end 48a from the second opposing ring section end 48b.

In some examples, two or more fasteners <NUM> coupling the coupler plate <NUM> to the first opposing ring section end 48a may be loosened, depending on the number of fasteners <NUM> securing the coupler plate <NUM> to the first opposing ring section end 48a. In some examples, the method may also include loosening a second fastener <NUM> coupling the second coupler end <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM> to the second opposing ring section end 48b. Thereafter, the method may include sliding the second coupler end <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM> relative to the second opposing ring section end 48b, thereby increasing the separation <NUM> of the first opposing ring section end 48a from the second opposing ring section end 48b. In some examples, two or more fasteners <NUM> coupling the coupler plate <NUM> to the second opposing ring section end 48b may be loosened, depending on the number of fasteners <NUM> securing the coupler plate <NUM> to the second opposing ring section end 48b.

In some examples, the method may further include engaging the handle <NUM> with the coupler plate <NUM>, such that the handle <NUM> (e.g., the handle body <NUM>) maintains the separation <NUM> of the first opposing ring section end 48a from the second opposing ring section end 48b, for example, as shown in <FIG>. Engaging the handle <NUM> with the coupler plate <NUM> may include engaging the first end <NUM> of the handle body <NUM> with a first portion of the coupler plate <NUM> and engaging the second end <NUM> of the handle body <NUM> with a second portion of the coupler plate <NUM>. For example, the first engagement fixture <NUM> may be engaged with the first coupler slot 74a, and the second engagement fixture <NUM> may be engaged with the second coupler slot 74b. As noted above, some examples of the handle body <NUM> define a first stop portion <NUM> and a second stop portion <NUM>, and engaging the handle <NUM> with the coupler plate <NUM> may include engaging the handle <NUM>, such that the first stop portion <NUM> and the second stop portion <NUM> are configured to substantially maintain the separation <NUM> between the first opposing ring section end 48a and the second opposing ring section end 48b.

As shown in <FIG>, some examples of the method may include rotating the handle <NUM> about an axis A extending radially relative to the lock-ring <NUM> including the first opposing ring section end 48a and the second opposing ring section end 48b. As noted above, some examples of the handle <NUM> may include a pin <NUM> associated with the handle body <NUM> (e.g., on a bottom side of the handle body <NUM>), and the coupler plate <NUM> may define a hole <NUM> on the plate outer surface <NUM> of the coupler plate <NUM>. For some such examples, engaging the handle <NUM> with the coupler plate <NUM> may include engaging the pin <NUM> with the hole <NUM>, and rotating the handle <NUM> about the axis A, such that the first end <NUM> of the handle body <NUM> engages the coupler plate <NUM>, and the second end <NUM> of the handle body <NUM> engages the coupler plate <NUM>. For example, the first slot 116a of the first engagement fixture <NUM> may engage the first coupler slot 74a, and the second slot 116b of the second engagement fixture <NUM> may engage the second coupler slot 74b.

As shown in <FIG>, according to some examples, engaging the handle <NUM> with the coupler plate <NUM> may also include coupling the handle <NUM> to the coupler plate <NUM> via at least one fastener <NUM>. For example, the at least one fastener <NUM> may have include at least one fastener <NUM> previously coupling the coupler plate <NUM> and the first opposing ring section end 48a or the second opposing ring section end 48b to one another, as previously described herein.

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate further examples of detachable handle <NUM> for use in engaging with and manipulating lock-ring <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, handle <NUM> may have a handle body axis H that is oblique to, and substantially orthogonal with, grip axis G. In this arrangement, grip <NUM> provides different leverage for maneuvering lock-ring <NUM> than with a configuration having handle body axis H substantially parallel to grip axis G. Grip <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> may comprise a rubberized or similarly pliable material to improve friction and comfort with the palm of a user's hand. Separation of opposing ring section ends 48a and 48b from one another and engagement of handle <NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG> may occur in substantially the same manner for handle <NUM> as described above for <FIG>.

<FIG> depicts a side section view of the example handle <NUM> of <FIG> as engaged within the retracted lock-ring <NUM>. When engaged, the vertical portion of handle <NUM> is centered over and substantially orthogonal to lock-ring <NUM>. As a result, handle <NUM> is positioned to provide firm balance and control over the mass of lock-ring <NUM> as it may be lifted or otherwise maneuvered.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate yet another example of detachable handle <NUM> for use in engaging with and manipulating lock-ring <NUM>. In this embodiment, handle <NUM> includes a plurality of grips, depicted in <FIG> as two grips 114a and 114b. Grips 114a and 114b are substantially aligned along a common grip axis G, although they may be positioned to be oblique or substantially parallel with respect to each other. In some examples, either or both of grips 114a and 114b may be angled radially downwardly to provide improved clearance from surrounding structures.

The two grips 114a and 114b provide added leverage for a user to manipulate lock-ring <NUM> particularly in applications where the wheel has substantial diameter and mass relative to a user's size and strength, such as with a wheel assembly <NUM> having a <NUM>-inch diameter. To assist with this leverage, common grip axis G and handle body axis H may be substantially co-planar as depicted in <FIG>. In this arrangement, handle <NUM> and grips 114a and 114b are substantially centered along the mass centerline of lock-ring <NUM>, providing for stable and balanced maneuvering of lock-ring <NUM>.

A tie brace <NUM> may extend between grips 114a and 114b. Tie brace <NUM> may provide stability and strength to handle <NUM> to assist in bearing the forces imparted when a user lifts lock-ring <NUM> using both grips 114a and 114b. Tie brace <NUM> is depicted as having a rectangular cross-section, although a round, oval, or other shaped cross-section may equally suffice. Tie brace <NUM> also provides an alternative structure to grips 114a and 114b for a user to grasp and hold handle <NUM>.

Installing handle <NUM> onto lock-ring <NUM> may occur in the same manner described above in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, regarding separating opposing ring ends <NUM>. As addressed above, such as shown in <FIG>, prior to the retraction of first opposing ring section end 48a and second opposing ring section end 48b, fasteners <NUM> secure the opposing ring sections to coupler plate <NUM>. A first step in the separation process involves removing one or more fasteners <NUM>. While shown in <FIG> as cap screws, a fastener <NUM> on each end of coupler plate <NUM>, such as the fastener <NUM> passing through the first ring aperture <NUM> in first ring side wall <NUM>, may alternatively be a rolled pin or similar structure, which is depicted in <FIG> as pins <NUM>. Pins <NUM>, which are not readily removable from handle <NUM>, make it clear to a user which fasteners are to be removed in the process.

In some examples, with pin <NUM> serving as fastener <NUM>, a split pin joint is formed that remains in place and slidably retains the respective opposing ring section 48a or 48b to coupler plate <NUM> while providing an increased amount of retained movement between the parts. Moreover, the steps of separating first opposing ring section end 48a and second opposing ring section end 48b can proceed by loosening and removing fewer cap screws (or similar fasteners) on each end of coupler plate <NUM> than if cap screws are used for all fasteners. After fasteners <NUM> are removed from apertures <NUM> with optional pins <NUM> being kept in place, first ring section end 48a and second ring section end 48b may be slid apart from each other exposing at least a central portion of coupler plate <NUM>, as described above. Pins <NUM> will maintain at least a loose attachment between each ring section end <NUM> and coupler plate <NUM>. In other examples, cap screws or similar devices requiring tightening and loosening may be used in place of pins <NUM> to achieve a similar result, a goal being to minimize a number of detached fasteners and other parts when separating lock-ring section ends 48a and 48b and then engaging handle <NUM>.

After removing fasteners <NUM>, handle <NUM> in <FIG> may be installed onto the exposed coupler plate <NUM> in a similar manner as described above for handle <NUM> having a single grip. In particular, handle <NUM> may be angled axially and lowered radially onto coupler plate <NUM>. Then, handle <NUM> may be rotated about an axis A extending radially relative to lock-ring <NUM>. Having oppositely facing first engagement fixture <NUM> and second engagement fixture <NUM> with respective slots 116a and 116b, handle <NUM> may be rotated such that slots 116a and 116b engage with first and second coupler slots 74a and 74b, respectively, of coupler plate <NUM>. In some examples, the fasteners <NUM> removed from each opposing ring section end 48a and 48b to start the separation process may be installed radially into handle <NUM> and pass into aligned first and second coupler apertures <NUM> and <NUM>. Tightening fasteners <NUM> will secure handle <NUM> into place on coupler <NUM> and between respective ends <NUM> of lock-ring <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. By using pins <NUM> or similar connectors to maintain a slidable connection between coupler plate <NUM> and respective ring section ends 48a and 48b, and by using fasteners <NUM> from holes <NUM> to secure handle <NUM> in place, extra or detached fasteners during and after the process may be minimized or eliminated, in some examples.

The example method for separating opposing ring section ends <NUM> from one another described above may be incorporated into a method for handling a lock-ring system <NUM> including one or more lock-ring sections <NUM>. For example, the method may include separating opposing ring section ends <NUM> of the one or more lock-ring sections <NUM>, for example, according to at least some examples of the above-noted method. The method for handling a lock-ring system <NUM> may also include grasping the handle <NUM>, for example, by one or more grip portions <NUM>, and repositioning the lock-ring system <NUM> relative to a wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, the lock-ring system <NUM> may include a number of lock-ring sections <NUM> coupled to one another, and the method may also include coupling a number of handles <NUM> to the plurality of lock-ring sections <NUM>, for example, such that the number of lock-ring sections <NUM> equals the number of handles <NUM>. For example, the lock-ring system <NUM> may include two lock-ring sections <NUM> coupled to one another, and the method may include coupling each of two handles <NUM> to each of the two lock-ring sections <NUM>.

In some examples of the method, repositioning the lock-ring system <NUM> may include sliding the lock-ring system <NUM> off the wheel assembly <NUM>. For example, a person may grasp the two handles <NUM> and slide the lock-ring system <NUM> off the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples of the method, a first person may grasp a first of the two handles <NUM> and another person may grasp a second of the two handles <NUM>. This example might be useful for removing a relatively large lock-ring system <NUM> (e.g., for a <NUM>-inch through <NUM>-inch diameter (or greater) wheel assembly <NUM>). Other numbers of handles <NUM>, lock-ring sections <NUM>, and/or people are contemplated, for example, for larger diameter wheel assemblies.

The example method for separating opposing ring section ends <NUM> from one another described above may be incorporated into a method of removing a tire <NUM> from a wheel assembly <NUM>. For example, any one of the above-noted methods may be performed, followed by sliding the tire <NUM> off the wheel assembly <NUM>. In some examples, the methods for disassembling the wheel assembly <NUM> described previously herein may be incorporated into such methods for removing a tire <NUM> from a wheel assembly <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A lock-ring section (<NUM>) configured to at least partially form an annular lock-ring (<NUM>), the lock-ring section (<NUM>) defining:
a curved longitudinal axis extending along a length of the lock-ring section (<NUM>) between a first ring section end (48a) and a second ring section end (48b); and
a ring cross-section (<NUM>) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the ring cross-section comprising:
a ring outer surface (<NUM>);
a ring inner surface (<NUM>) opposite the ring outer surface;
a first ring side wall (<NUM>);
a second ring side wall (<NUM>) opposite the first ring side wall (<NUM>);
wherein the lock-ring section (<NUM>) comprises:
a ring aperture defined adjacent the first ring section end (48a) and extending between one of:
the first ring side wall (<NUM>) and the second ring side wall (<NUM>); or
the ring outer surface (<NUM>) and the ring inner surface (<NUM>);
a ring aperture defined adjacent the second ring section end (48b) and extending between one of:
the first ring side wall (<NUM>) and the second ring side wall (<NUM>); or
the ring outer surface (<NUM>) and the ring inner surface (<NUM>),
characterized in that the ring inner surface (<NUM>) is defining a ring recess (<NUM>) configured to at least partially receive a coupler plate (<NUM>).