KR20230152110A - farm irrigation wheel - Google Patents

Abstract

A wheel having a circular ring is provided. The circular ring has an axis of rotation and an outer surface. A plurality of lugs are mounted side by side on the outer surface of the circular ring. Each lug of the plurality of lugs includes a center rib, a first leg and a second leg, each leg extending laterally and in opposite directions from the center rib, and a lug plate configured to connect the first leg to the center rib. . The outermost point of each central rib may form a circular pattern coaxial with the axis of rotation. The wheel may have a rim nested within the circular ring, the rim having a plurality of alternating scallop projections, the rim increasing the load capacity of the wheel while providing adequate clearance for tools during lug installation and removal. It can be configured as follows.

Description

farm irrigation wheel

The present invention relates generally to utility wheels, and more particularly to wheels used in agricultural applications, such as wheels used with crop irrigation equipment.

Currently, central pivot irrigation is a form of overhead sprinkler irrigation that uses a machine with pipe segments arranged in linear arms, the sprinklers may be supported by trusses mounted on wheeled units, and these units may be supported by trusses mounted on wheeled units. It is placed along an arm installed at various points along the line. In one version, the arm is driven in a circular pattern, and water is supplied from a pivot point in the center of the circle. To use a central pivot, the terrain it rotates around must be fairly flat; It can move even on undulating surfaces. The length of the arm can generally be between 1200 and 1600 feet forming a circle radius. These systems may be hydraulically driven, hydraulically driven, or electric motor driven. The outermost wheel sets the speed of rotation, making a complete circle, for example once every three days. The inner wheel is automatically controlled to keep the arm relatively linear during movement. Sprinkler size increases incrementally with the distance from the pivot point to the outer circumference of the circle. Crops can be planted in a straight line or in a circle depending on the movement of the irrigation system.

Additionally, center pivot irrigation generally uses less water and requires less labor than furrow irrigation. This reduces labor costs, reduces the amount needed to till the soil, and helps reduce water runoff and soil erosion. Additionally, reducing tillage allows more organic matter and crop residue to break down into the soil, reducing soil compaction. Inflatable tires are widely used in center pivot irrigation equipment because they perform well in soft soils and mud due to their compliance, which causes flattening as they roll against the surface. During the flattening process, the tire's footprint (contact surface) increases, reducing contact pressure, and as contact pressure decreases, the tendency to sink into the ground decreases.

Additionally, current center pivot irrigation wheels lack the strength and durability of the wheels due to the pneumatic tires commonly used. Additionally, current center pivot irrigation wheels do not support traction once the wheel is already in the ruts. Pneumatic tires in irrigation applications also require air pressure maintenance due to air loss and commonly have problems with warping.

Accordingly, there is a need to solve the above-mentioned problems by providing a device for improving the traction force of crop irrigation equipment.

The aspects or problems and related solutions presented herein may be those that are currently being pursued or may be pursued, and are not necessarily approaches that have been previously envisioned or pursued. Accordingly, unless otherwise specified, it should not be assumed that any of the approaches presented in this section constitute prior art simply because they exist in this section of the application.

This summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form some concepts that are explained in more detail in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential aspects of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, this Summary is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of claimed subject matter.

In one aspect, a wheel is provided, the wheel comprising: a circular ring having an outer surface and an axis of rotation; and a plurality of lugs mounted in parallel positions on the outer surface of the circular ring, each lug comprising: a central rib, a first leg and a second leg, each leg extending laterally from the central rib and in opposite directions from each other. , and a lug plate configured to connect the first leg to the central rib, wherein the plurality of lugs form a circular pattern coaxial with the axis of rotation. Therefore, the advantage is that lugs with protruding lug plates provide improved traction so that the wheel can better grip the running surface. Another advantage is that lug plates provide structural support to the lug, increasing its strength. Another advantage is that each lug is provided with an overmolded rubber layer to increase lug strength and durability, improve lug grip, and/or protect the internally sealed lug structure. Another advantage is that the modular implementation of the lugs allows them to be easily maintained, repaired or replaced as needed without replacing the entire wheel. Another advantage is that the disclosed wheel can utilize a rim with scalloped protrusions, which can facilitate manipulation of the lugs and provide the wheel with improved load-carrying capabilities.

In another aspect, a wheel is provided, the wheel comprising: a plurality of lugs mounted in parallel positions to form a circular ring, each lug having: a central rib, a first leg and a second leg, each leg having a central rib; extending laterally and in opposite directions from the ribs, and comprising a lug plate configured to connect the first leg to the central rib. Again, the advantage of having lugs with raised lug plates is that the wheel has better traction, giving it a better grip on the running surface. Another advantage is that lug plates provide structural support to the lug, increasing its strength. Another advantage is that each lug is provided with an overmolded rubber layer to increase lug strength and durability, improve lug grip, and/or protect the internally sealed lug structure. Another advantage is that the modular implementation of the lugs allows them to be easily maintained, repaired or replaced as needed without replacing the entire wheel. Another advantage is that the disclosed wheel can utilize a rim with scalloped protrusions, which can facilitate manipulating the lugs and provide the wheel with improved load bearing capacity.

In another aspect, a lug for use in a wheel is provided, the lug having: a central rib; a first leg and a second leg, each leg extending laterally from the central rib and in opposite directions; and a lug plate configured to connect the first leg to the central rib. Again, the advantage is that the lugs with protruding lug plates have improved traction so that the attached wheel can better grip the driving surface. Another advantage is that the lug plate provides structural support for the lug, increasing the strength of the lug while also improving traction between the lug and the running surface. Another advantage is that the lugs can be provided with an overmolded rubber layer that can increase lug strength and durability, improve lug grip, and/or protect the internally sealed lug structure.

The above aspects or embodiments and advantages, as well as other aspects or embodiments and advantages, will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings.

For illustrative purposes and not to limit the invention, aspects, embodiments or examples of the invention are shown in the drawings of the accompanying drawings, wherein the aspects, embodiments or examples of the invention are as follows: :
1A illustrates a central pivot irrigation system used in agriculture according to an aspect.
1B shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a wheel used in a central pivot irrigation system according to aspects.
Figure 2 shows a further perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel according to an aspect.
Figure 3 shows a vertical cross-section of a portion of a farm irrigation wheel according to an aspect.
Figure 4 shows a front elevation view of a farm irrigation wheel according to an aspect.
Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a lug of a farm irrigation wheel according to an aspect.
Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel according to an embodiment.
Figure 7a shows a perspective view of a lug according to an embodiment.
Figure 7b shows a perspective view of a lug according to an embodiment.
7C-7F show side views of a lug according to an embodiment.
Figure 7g shows a perspective view of a lug according to an embodiment.
7H shows a translucent perspective view of a lug according to an embodiment.
Figure 8 shows a perspective perspective view of a wheel hub for farm irrigation according to an embodiment.
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel without lugs attached, according to an embodiment.
Figure 10A shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel during a von Mises stress simulation according to an embodiment.
Figure 10B shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel during a von Mises stress simulation according to an embodiment.
Figure 10C shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel during vibration simulation according to an embodiment.
Figure 11A shows a perspective view of a lug according to an embodiment.
11B shows a cross-sectional side view of a lug according to an embodiment.
12A shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel attached to a central pivot irrigation system, according to an embodiment.
FIG. 12B shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel attached to a central pivot irrigation system, according to an embodiment.
Figures 13a to 13e show perspective views of a scallop farm irrigation wheel according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A description of various aspects, embodiments, and/or embodiments in which the present invention may be practiced follows. Reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, the information contained in which is a part of this detailed description. The aspects, embodiments and/or examples described herein are presented for illustrative purposes and not for limiting purposes. It should be understood that structural and/or logical modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

For clarity of the drawings and specification, it should be understood that some or all details of some structural elements or steps known to those skilled in the art are not shown or described unless necessary for the skilled person to understand the invention.

In the foregoing description, embodiments are described as a plurality of individual parts and methods as a plurality of individual steps, which are for illustrative purposes only. Accordingly, some additional parts or steps may be added, some parts or steps may be changed or omitted, and the order of the parts or steps may be rearranged while maintaining the meaning and understanding of the devices and methods as claimed. is taken into consideration.

In the following description, it can be assumed that elements correspondingly displayed throughout the drawings have mostly the same characteristics and the same structure and function. If there are unnoticed differences between correspondingly labeled elements, and these differences result in non-corresponding structures or functions of the elements for a particular embodiment, embodiment or aspect, then Conflicting explanations given for an aspect prevail.

Figure 1a illustrates a typical central pivot irrigation operation in progress. As described in detail herein, a utility farm wheel (“wheel”, “farm wheel”) 10 is provided for use in this type of irrigation, as best shown in FIG. 1B. As shown in Figure 2, wheel 10 may be an assembly of individual parts that may be joined together in a variety of ways. In an embodiment, the individual parts may include a ring 20, a pair of rims 30, one or two disk portions 40, and a plurality of identical lugs 50. In this embodiment shown in Figure 1B, a tensioning device 60B, which is typically a tension band (not shown) or a tension cable, may also be used and may improve the alignment of the lugs 50. The parts may be made of metal or other materials that provide suitable tensile strength, elasticity, flexibility and other properties, as known to those skilled in the mechanical arts and described herein.

Ring 20 can also be manufactured by laser cutting a flat metal strip and then rolling it to form a cylinder with the ends overlapping and welded together. Accordingly, ring 20 may have an outer surface 22, an inner surface 24 and a pair of opposing edges 26. The ring 20 may have a pattern of through holes 28 on its surface as shown in FIG. 2 . The rim 30 may be secured to the edge 26 of the ring 20, for example by welding, and the ends of the legs 42 of the disk portion 40 may be secured to the rim 30 using conventional hardware. It can be. Lug 50 may be bolted to exterior surface 22 as shown in FIG. 3 . Each lug 50 may be mounted to ring 20 by a bracket 80, possibly made of shaped sheet metal, and held in place by bolts 82 as shown in the figure. The holes 28 may be arranged in different patterns and thus the lugs 50 may be arranged in other configurations as will be described. The wheel 10 has a central rotation axis (“wheel rotation axis”, “rotation axis”) (12). As shown in FIG. 2 , when viewed radially toward the wheel 10 (see arrow R), the lug 50 has its major axis 52 centered between opposing long sides and its minor axis 54 It has a rectangular shape centered between the opposing short sides. The point where the major axis 52 and the minor axis 54 intersect is the center point 56 of the lug 50.

Lug 50 may be secured to surface 22 such that major axis 52 is parallel to wheel axis of rotation 12 (see FIG. 1B). The lugs 50 may be arranged side by side around the ring 20, with their minor axes 54 aligned linearly and centered between opposite edges 26, i.e. at the center of the ring 20; This is one mounting option. However, the lugs 50 alternate on the ring 20 in laterally offset positions relative to each other (see FIG. 5 ) to form a continuous, smoothly changing trajectory of the center point 56 as shown in FIG. 4 . It can be placed as . In an embodiment, the smoothly changing trajectory of the center points 56 may execute a sinusoidal curve with a sinusoidal amplitude and sinusoidal period. The sinusoidal amplitude can be varied by varying the magnitude of the lateral incremental position of the center point 56 of one lug 50 relative to the next lug 50 . On the other hand, the distance of a single sinusoidal cycle relative to the circumference of the wheel 10 can be varied by varying the circumferential width of the lugs 50 . The position of the lug 50 may be determined by the position of the hole 28 in the ring 20. One skilled in the art will be able to determine the location of holes 28 to create the desired sinusoidal or alternative arrangement of lugs 50.

As shown in Figure 5, each lug 50 may have an approximately V-shape pointing outward (as seen along the circumference of wheel 10). Two opposing legs 58 of the V shape radiate from a surface 22 on either side of the axis 54 on which the lug 50 is secured to the ring 20. While the wheel 10 rotates, each lug 50 contacts the surface on which the wheel 10 runs. This contact is initially made at the extreme lateral end of the lug 50 along axis 52. As the wheel rotates further, greater load is applied to the legs, reducing the divergence angle and causing greater deformation within the lugs 50. The ribs 57 extend across the outer portion of the legs 50 in the direction of the axis 52 and provide a means for the wheel 10 to exert greater traction, especially in relatively soft farm soils. At the leg ends of the lugs 50, ribs 59 are disposed at right angles to the ribs 57 to limit lateral slippage of the wheel 10.

Tension devices 60B may be manufactured from high-strength nylon® cable or stainless steel band stock and may be secured to lugs 50 on the left and right side underside surfaces of the legs by cleats 62, as shown in FIG. 1. You can. The tensioning device 60B may allow the spacing between adjacent lugs 50 to remain constant and may also allow the lugs 50 to achieve the desired stiffness, i.e., the divergence angle of the legs of the lugs 50 relative to the surface 22. It may be allowed to be pre-tensioned to a greater or lesser degree. This also allows adjacent lugs 50 to share and transfer loads between them, which is important for sharing and distributing impact loads when encountering obstacles such as rocks.

Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel 10 according to one aspect. In another embodiment, the individual parts may include a ring 20 (shown in FIG. 9), a hub 70, a plurality of spokes 71, and a plurality of identical lugs 50A. As shown, a farm irrigation wheel 10 may include a hub 70, spokes (“pins”) 71, lugs 50A, and rings 20. As described herein, the disk portion 40 shown in FIG. 2 can be divided into hub 70 and spoke (“pin”) 71 components. Additionally, having the hub 70 and spokes 71 as separate parts may allow for better durability. Additionally, maintenance may be easier if each spoke 71 is used as a separate part. For example, if the spokes 71 are damaged, a single spoke 71 can be replaced without having to replace the entire wheel 10. Again, instead of legs 58 on rim 30, farm irrigation wheel 10 may have a hub 70 with spokes 71, which would provide additional strength and more traction to the wheel. You can.

As shown in Figure 6, spokes 71 can be attached in recessed and alternating positions. The spokes 71 of the wheel 10 provide traction and can help prevent the wheel from slipping as it moves through existing ruts. Typically, wheel hubs and spokes have only the purpose of handling loads, but as described herein, spokes 71 can provide additional traction. Spokes 71 can assist traction by cutting into the ground surface (e.g. soil or soil) if necessary. For example, if wheel 10 begins to sink below the ground (i.e. 'loop' or 'trench'), wheel 10 may continue to be driven by spokes 71.

Spokes (“pins”) 71 may have concave surfaces 71C to increase strength. This can increase strength while keeping the metal very thin, and can lower costs due to the thin structure of the spokes 71. Additionally, the spokes 71 allow the wheel 10 to be well balanced by allowing the center of gravity of the wheel to be located at the center of the hub at times, which will be described in more detail below.

The wheel 10 is 'compliant' and can flex and flex to absorb heavy loads. Additionally, both spokes 71 and lugs 50A may be compliant to allow appropriate flex to handle larger loads in wheel 10. Additionally, the outer surface of the wheel can help reduce groove formation and maintenance of traction on soft ground.

Lug 50A may also be horizontal and have a lug plate that protrudes higher than lug 50 shown in Figure 5, where lug 50A provides additional traction to wheel 10. Additionally, spokes 71 may provide traction to wheel 10 when the wheel sinks into the soil. The sinusoidal shape of the ring 20 may further aid traction as it pushes the soil towards the center to provide more traction to the wheel 10. The geometry of the spokes 71 may, for example, in the case of a swimmer, allow the spokes 71 to serve to grip the dirt to dig the dirt out of the hole, similar to an arm while swimming. Additionally, the spokes 71 can serve as paddles to help dig the wheel 10 out of the dirt or ruts. Additionally, when the wheel 10 is sunk in soft soil, the spokes 71 act similarly to a swimmer's arms and hands, moving alternately forward and forward in an arm or paddle-like motion.

For example, a pair of spokes 71 cuts the ground evenly and pushes the wheel up when needed (e.g. while stuck in ruts). Current wheels generally do not have the central traction element provided by spokes 71. Moreover, the intersection and curvature of each spoke 71 can only contribute to traction when the wheel 10 is submerged in soft soil.

As shown, each spoke 71 may have a narrow end 71B and a wider end 71A, and each wider end 71A may be mounted on a sinusoidal peak 78 on ring 20. there is. Varying the width of each spoke 71 can eliminate or reduce resonance forces. Each spoke 71 is configured to be attached to the hub 70 by the narrow end 71B of the spoke to help reduce resonance forces reaching the hub 70 as vibrations travel through the wheel 10. do. Reducing the resonance force reaching the hub 70 may help prevent deterioration of the wheel 10.

Additionally, the spokes 71 can act as shock absorbers, absorbing vibrations, stresses and loads of the wheel, which increases the strength of the wheel 10 by adding a compliant aspect to the design. The concave portion of the spoke 71 can geometrically increase strength, which will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 10C. The irregularities of the spokes 71 can be manufactured through metal forming. In another example, irregularities in the spokes 71 may be created during installation of the spokes 71 into the ring 20.

The wheels may be manufactured from low-grade carbon steel for cost purposes, but the preferred material may be spring steel. Spring steel may be preferred to control and increase the elasticity and compliance of wheel 10 and lug 50A. The geometry of the spokes 71 may allow the spokes 71 to bend, and when the spokes 71 are bent to a certain point the spokes 71 may interfere with each other. For example, under large loads, immediately adjacent spokes 71 may support the central flexed spoke 71. Two adjacent spokes 71 may provide resistance to the spokes 71 between them. In a stationary state, the spokes 71 may not be in contact with no load applied.

It should be noted that as the spokes 71 move toward the hub 70, the space between the spokes 71 narrows, and they almost touch before the load is applied.

Figure 7a shows a perspective view of a lug according to an aspect. Figure 7b shows an internal perspective view of a lug according to an aspect. Additionally, like the lug shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the lug 50A may have metal built into the lug 50A. Additionally, liquid rubber can be overmolded onto metal for additional strength and durability. The metal interior may allow the lugs 50A to bend or twist, which may be necessary in typical harsh agricultural environments. For example, lugs 50A may be made of spring steel and may have an additional rubber overmold. Each lug 50A may be mounted on the ring 20 with a bolt. The holes 28 shown in FIG. 9 may be arranged in different patterns and may allow the lugs 50A to be arranged in other configurations as will be described. The lug 50A may have a flat portion with a bolt hole 93, which allows the lug 50A to be easily secured to the ring 20.

The lug plate 91 extends across the outer portion of the leg 50 in the direction of the central rib 92 and provides a means for the wheel 10 to develop greater traction, especially in relatively soft farm soils. . At the leg end of the lug 50A, a lug plate 91 is disposed at a right angle to the center rib 92 to limit lateral slippage of the wheel 10. It should be understood that lug 50A may be constructed in other ways, such as having a metal internal frame with an overmolded rubber coating, for example.

Lugs 50A may have lug plates 91 to further aid traction while wheel 10 is in use. The central peak (“center rib”) 92 of the lug plate 91 and lug 50A may enable the wheel 10 to have adequate traction in soft agricultural soil. Additionally, the direction of the lugs 50A may be more helpful for traction in agricultural fields. One or more bolt holes 93 may be provided in each lug to allow the lug 50A to be secured to the ring 20 using bolts. As shown, each of the plurality of lugs 50A may have a center rib 92 and opposite legs 95 forming a W shape, where the alignment of the outermost point of each center rib 92 is the axis of rotation. A sinusoidal curve pattern coaxial with (12) can be formed. Additionally, the lug plate 91 may connect the lug leg 95 to the lug center rib 92 and may also be connected to the flat portion 97 of the leg 95 at the same time. As described herein, lug plate 91 may provide additional traction to wheel 10 while providing additional structural support. As another example, lug 50A may have lug plates 91 on either side of the central rib to provide additional traction and support as shown in FIGS. 7C, 7F, and 7G.

Additionally, the lugs 50A may be arranged in an alternating pattern, as shown in FIG. 6 . The lug 50A may be oriented so that the lug plate 91 is located on one side, and the next adjacent lug 50A may be oriented so that the lug plate 91 is located on the opposite side. For example, as shown in Figure 6, lugs 50B and 50C exhibit an alternating pattern of lug 50A orientation along ring 20. Each of the plurality of spokes 71 may be concave and arranged in an alternating pattern. The alternating pattern is such that, as shown, the upper ends 71A of each of the plurality of spokes 71 are alternately attached to the first outer edge 20A or the second outer edge 20B of the circular ring 20, The lower ends 71B of each of the plurality of spokes may be alternately attached to the first surface 75 or the second surface 74 of the hub.

7C-7F show side views of a lug according to one embodiment. As another example, lug 50A may have lug plates 91 on both sides of the lug, as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7F. Additionally, as shown, the lug plate 91 may not be attached to the flat portion 97. Additionally, lug plate 91 may have cutouts 98, for example, to maintain the structural integrity of lug 50A while lowering cost. Additionally, these cutouts 98 located within each lug plate 91 allow mud and debris to escape and not become trapped in the lug 50A. As shown in FIGS. 7E and 7F , lug 50A may have a solid structure disposed within central rib 92, and thus a solid central rib 92 may be present. For example, lug 50A may have a rigid center rib 92 to provide additional strength. Additionally, as shown, the bolt holes 93 and bolts 94 may be located in the center of the lug 50A instead of being located in the flat portion.

Figure 7g shows a perspective view of a lug according to one embodiment. As shown, lug 50A may have a rigid central rib 92. For example, lugs 50A may be made of spring steel, and the interior 99 of central rib 92 may be a rubber material. If spring steel is used as a material for the outside of the lug 50A and in contact with the ground, the durability of the lug 50A and the wheel 10 can be improved. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7G, the lug plate 91 may have a triangular cross-section, where the widest portion of the lug plate 91 is where the lug plate meets the flat portion 97. As shown in Figure 7g, the triangular cross-section of the lug 50A can allow the lug plate 91 to be stronger. The wide bottom of the lug plate 91 can help prevent the lug plate from breaking during use. As described herein, lug plate 91 can improve traction between wheel 10 and the ground. Additionally, the highest point of lug 50A may be a solid central rib 92, which may be helpful when wheel 10 is able to traverse a hard surface.

For example, this is because the solid central rib 92 has a hard outer surface while having additional inner rubber support. Additionally, the solid central rib 92, which is the highest point of the lug 50, may allow only the upper surface of the central rib 92 to contact the ground on a solid surface.

Figure 7h shows a translucent perspective view of the lug 50A according to one embodiment. As shown, lug 50 may have a metal internal frame 100. The metal internal frame 100 may include wires made of spring steel and may have a layer of rubber overmolded for maximum fit. Additionally, as shown, the bolt holes 93 and bolts 94 may be located in the center of the lug 50A instead of being located in the flat portion. Again, lug plate 91 allows for improved traction on wheel 10. For example, as shown, the metal internal frame 100 may be a plurality of wire components to create a lug shape. Additionally, the highest point of the lug 50A may be the central rib 92, which may assist the wheel 10 when traversing a hard surface, for example on a road before soft farmland.

Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a wheel hub (“hub”) for farm irrigation according to an embodiment. As shown, hub 70 has a narrow end (“second side”) 74 and a wider end (“first side”) 75. Hub 70 may enable attachment of a farm irrigation wheel 10 to a central pivot irrigation system, as shown in FIG. 1A , where hub 70 may also have an alternating pattern of spokes 71 securely attached thereto. make it possible As described herein, spokes 71 allow wheel 10 to have traction even if wheel 10 is somewhat submerged in the landscape.

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the farm irrigation wheel 10 without the lug 50 attached, according to one side. A plurality of lugs (not shown) may be mounted in parallel positions to form a circular ring, with each lug having legs extending laterally and forming a W shape. Alignment of the outermost points of each central rib 92 may form a sinusoidal pattern coaxial with the axis of rotation 12. This alignment of the lugs 50 may be the result of the through holes 28 disposed in the outer surface 22 of the ring 20 also being arranged in a sinusoidal pattern coaxial with the axis of rotation 12. The lug may have outer ribs aligned with the axis of rotation 12 and additional outer ribs perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The lugs may be mutually offset around the circular ring in a sinusoidal pattern to further aid traction and wear.

The ring 20 may have a pattern of through holes 28 on its surface, as shown in FIG. 2 . Spokes 70 may be secured to ring 20 using support parts 76, 77 and conventional hardware (e.g., bolts). Additionally, as shown in Figure 9, the spoke 70 can be attached to both the hub 70 and the ring 20 by a combination of bolts 78 and supports 76 and 77. For example, as shown, spokes 70 can be placed on support pieces 77 and bolts can pass through the holes in all three components to secure spokes 71 to hub 70. Additionally, the support pieces 76 and 77 may be positioned flat on each surface along the curvature of the hub 70 and the ring 20, respectively, to enable a more secure connection. As described herein, lug 50 may have a flat portion with bolt holes 93, which allow lug 50 to be easily secured to ring 20. Additionally, by making the spokes 71 removable, fatigue of the wheel can be reduced. Additionally, the modular aspect of the wheel 10 may facilitate maintenance while reducing transportation costs.

Additionally, each spoke may be attached to the peak 78 of the sinusoid of the ring 20. It should be noted that when the spokes are connected to the sinusoidal ring, they are attached to the peaks 78 as opposed to the valleys 79 of each sinusoidal edge of the ring 20. It should be noted that the alternating mounting of the spokes 71 contributes to improving traction on soil while maintaining the relatively light weight structure of the wheel. For example, the spoke 71 is mounted with the upper portion 71A attached to the first side 20A of the ring 20 and the lower portion 71B attached to the second side 74 of the hub 70. It can be. Additionally, for example, the adjacent spokes 71 have their upper portions 71A attached to the second side 20B of the ring 20 and their lower portions 71B attached to the first side 75 of the hub 70. It can be installed as is. This alternating pattern may continue throughout the mounting of spokes 71. Additionally, the spokes 71 may be mounted with the concave surface facing outward, as shown in FIG. 9 . This alternating spoke direction ensures that the weight is always distributed evenly and the center of gravity is perfectly balanced. It should be noted that the fact that the spokes 71 are made of steel plates provides the advantage of reducing the weight of the wheel 10 and reducing manufacturing costs. In another example, wheel 10 may be manufactured from 1020 steel.

Additionally, each spoke 71 attached to the peak 78 of the sinusoidal edge of the ring 20 can maintain balance even while the wheel 10 rotates strongly or sharply. For example, during a sharp turn, the peak 78 can support more weight, so the spokes 71 and hub 70 can compensate for the force. In addition, because each spoke 71 is attached to the peak 78 across the center, the weight is evenly distributed and the wheel 10 can be better balanced. For example, while the wheel 10 is moving, the sinusoidal shape of the ring 20 moving from left to right places stress on the spokes 71 because they are attached to the peaks 78.

10A and 10B show a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel during a von Mises stress simulation according to an embodiment. For example, in simulation tests, the 3D of wheel 10 without lugs 50A was evaluated for strength under various conditions. In the von Mises stress test simulation, the yield strength of wheel 10 without lug 50A was 3.500e+08 N/m<A>2. Therefore, the wheel 10 can withstand normal loads and is not deformed in any way. In addition, this farm irrigation wheel (10) has better yield strength due to alternating spokes (71) while being more durable and providing traction. Tests have shown that each wheel can withstand more than 20,000 pounds of force before failure, with a maximum load of 6,000 pounds per wheel (12,000 pounds per tower). Additionally, as shown in Figure 10a, the darkest gray portion of the gradient, corresponding to the lowest stress point in the wheel, is found in the outermost portion of wheel 10. This shows that the ring 20 and hub 70 receive the least amount of stress. The lightest portion of the wheel's gradient is found at the hub 70-spoke 71 connection, meaning that this connection experiences the most stress of any wheel element. However, as explained herein, the stress experienced by the connection was still insignificant even under large loads. As shown in Figure 10b, the lightest portion of the gradient found in the wheel is on the outer portion of the wheel 10 during greater loading. This shows that the ring 20 may experience some stress under heavy load, while the hub 70 is relatively stress-free.

Figure 10C shows a perspective view of a farm irrigation wheel 10 during a vibration simulation according to an embodiment. Additionally, it should be noted that the wheel 10 may further ensure that the hub 70 does not experience a large amount of vibration from the system. Analytical testing showed that the vibrations stayed near the outer portion of the wheel and did not penetrate into the hub 70 of the wheel 10. As shown in Figure 10c, the vibration stays in the outer portion of the wheel 10 and does not reach the hub 70. The wheel 10 is specially designed so that vibration does not reach the hub 70 of the wheel 10. Generally, the hub 70 is where the drive train and gearbox are located, and is the main component that breaks down first in the pivot machine. Additionally, pneumatic wheels typically accelerate drivetrain failure. The alternating positions and shapes of the spokes help prevent vibrations from resonating into the central hub 70. Computer simulation tests of the same spoke shape without concavities showed that the strength of the spokes without concavities was 10 times lower. Additionally, the spokes 71 with concave surfaces 71C can increase the strength by about 10 times.

Additionally, as shown in Figure 10c, the darkest gray portion of the gradient corresponding to the greatest vibrational strain is found in the outermost part of the wheel 10. This means that the most vibration occurs near the ring 20 of the wheel 10. The black portion of the gradient is found at hub 70, meaning that hub 70 has experienced the least amount of vibration of the wheel 10 elements.

Figures 11a and 11b respectively show a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the lug 50A according to aspects. As described above, the lug 50A for use in the wheel 10 may be composed of a center rib 92, a first leg 95A, and a second leg 95B, and each leg has a center rib 92 ) extending laterally and in opposite directions from each other, and may include a lug plate 91 configured to connect the first leg 95A to the central rib 92. The first leg 95A and the second leg 95B may form a W shape with the central rib 92 disposed in the center. In one embodiment, lug 50A may be provided with a single lug plate 91 having a rectangular cross-section configured to connect one of the lug legs 95 to the central rib 92, but which may be provided with two bolts. It can be fixed to the ring 20 using (94). The lug leg connected to the lug plate 91 may be referred to as a first leg 95A, and the other leg may be referred to as a second leg 95B. The first leg 95A and the second leg 95B of the lug 50A may each have a flat portion 97 where the bolt hole 93 is disposed. Bolts 94 may secure lug 50A to circular ring 20 by passing through respective bolt holes, such as bolt holes 93 in FIG. 7B, disposed within each of the two flat portions 97 of lug 50A. there is. Using two bolts 94 to attach the lug 50A to the ring 20 prevents rotation of the lug 50A after installation and causes the wheel to sag when compared to a configuration with a single bolt 94. It can help provide greater resistance to being dislodged. Other methods of securing lug 50A to circular ring 20 may also be implemented, which may include implementing compression fittings, magnets, or other suitable fasteners on lug 50A to secure it to ring 20. . Some alternative methods, including welding, may not require the use or presence of through holes 28 in the circular ring 20, but may increase assembly costs.

An overmolded rubber coat (“overmolded rubber layer”, “rubber coat”) 110 may be disposed on one or more surfaces of the metal inner frame 100 to further strengthen and protect the lugs 50A, or It may completely surround and surround the metal inner frame 100. The metal internal frame 100 may be a single monolithic component, such as a metal plate as in Figures 11A-11B, one or more individual wires as in Figure 7H, or any other component that can provide the necessary structural properties. It can be provided in the form The overmolded rubber coat 110 may cover only a portion of the lug, such as the bottom surface of the metal inner frame 100, as shown in FIG. 11A, or may cover the entire metal inner frame 100, as shown in FIG. 11B. It can also be covered. As described above, the overmolded rubber layer 110 may occupy the interior 99 of the central rib 92 of the lug 50A, and the bottom surface of the lug 50A is flat between the two flat portions 97. And the solid rubber body can be disposed within the central rib 92. The presence of a solid rubber body disposed within the central rib 92 can further increase the strength of the lug 50A.

Different styles of overmolded rubber layer 110 may provide different benefits depending on which portion of the metal inner frame 100 is covered. As previously described, the overmolded rubber layer occupying the interior 99 of the central rib 92 may provide a rigid body structure within the interior 99 of the central rib 92, which increases the strength of the lug 50A. and can withstand greater forces without deformation or damage. As described above, providing an overmolded rubber layer only on the bottom surface of the rug can leave the metal inner frame 100 exposed on top, which can have the advantage of providing a durable outer surface in contact with the ground. Alternatively, providing the overmolded rubber layer only on the top surface of the lug so that the overmolded rubber layer is in contact with the ground may help improve the grip of the wheel by increasing friction between the wheel and the ground. Because the metal internal frame 100 may not itself have a comparable lug plate structure, the primary purpose of the overmolded rubber layer 110 on the upper surface of the lug is to provide lug 50A with the lug plate 91 described above. It may be providing. These lug plates 91 can help provide greater traction between the attached wheels and the running surface. Finally, by completely surrounding and sealing the metal inner frame 100 within the overmolded rubber layer 110, both the benefits of increased structural strength and improved wheel grip are provided along with protection of the enclosed metal inner frame 100 from external elements. This may help increase the lifespan of the metal inner frame 100.

When implementing the overmolding rubber layer 110 on the lug 50A, the overmolding rubber layer 110 may cover the entire surface of the metal inner frame 100, and the overmolding rubber layer 110 and the metal inner frame 100 has the same length and width. In one embodiment, the overmolding rubber layer 110 disposed on the bottom surface of the metal inner frame 100 is formed so that the length and width of the two layers are the same, as shown in FIG. 11A. It can cover the entire floor surface. By implementing the overmolding rubber layer 110 having the same length and width as the metal inner frame 100 on the lug 50A, the entire surface of the frame metal inner frame 100 can be formed without significantly changing the shape of the lug 50A. It can be protected. In other embodiments where the overmolded rubber layer 110 completely surrounds the metal inner frame 100, the rubber layer 110 is slightly wider and wider than the metal inner frame 100 to completely surround the metal inner frame 100. Although it may need to be longer, this slight size difference may not have a significant impact on the overall shape of lug 50A. The lugs can be implemented on the wheel in a modular manner so that each lug can be easily maintained, repaired or replaced as needed.

In embodiments, overmolded rubber layer 110 may have the same shape as metal inner frame 100. In this embodiment, such as lug 50A of FIG. 11B, the structure of lug 50A is structural for all elements of lug 50A, including legs 95, central rib 92, and lug plate 91. This will have the advantage of improved stability. In other embodiments, the shapes of the overmolded rubber layer 110 and the metal inner frame 100 may be different. As shown in Figure 7h, the described lugs comprising legs 95, central ribs 92 and lug plates 91 may be formed by an overmolded rubber layer 110, while a metal inner frame ( 100) may be comprised of three separate metal wire structures that do not share the disclosed lug shape, as shown in FIG. 7H. This embodiment may be useful in limiting the amount of metal needed to form the lug, in applications where greatly improved lug 50A strength is not required or where a lighter lug is desirable.

In one embodiment, each lug secured to the wheel may have identical dimensions. Each lug can have a length of 15.75", a width of 3.75" and a height of 3.75". Depending on the lug dimensions, a standard farm wheel can be equipped with 30 lugs around the outer surface of the ring of the wheel. The configuration of the embodiments is cost effective while fitting within the full breadth parameters of the central pivot and lateral movement irrigation industry.

12A and 12B show perspective views of a farm irrigation wheel 10 attached to a central pivot irrigation system, according to one aspect. In one embodiment, the individual parts of the farm irrigation wheel 10 may include a circular ring 20, a rim 30 disposed within and attached to the circular ring, and a plurality of identical lugs 50A. . Wheel 10 may further include a hub 70 disposed within rim 30 configured to engage suitable agricultural equipment. Rim 30 and hub 70 may be formed from a single monolithic piece, which may help simplify the design of the wheel and improve the structural integrity of the wheel. The circular ring 20 may have a rotational axis 12 shared with the outer surface of the wheel 10 of FIG. 2, such as the outer surface 22 on which the lug 50A is mounted, and with the wheel 10 itself. You can. Unlike the sinusoidal-shaped edges of the ring 20 illustrated in FIG. 9, the pair of opposite edges 26 of the ring 20 in FIGS. 12A and 12B of the present embodiment are flat, so that the ring 20 is flat. It is cylindrical with circular edges (26).

The reverse side of the wheel 10 may not be visible in certain drawings, but it should be understood that, unless otherwise specified, it can be assumed that the reverse side has the same characteristics as the visible side. The rim 30 may be disposed within the ring 20 and secured or otherwise attached to the inner surface 24 of the ring 20 by an outer circumference 31 of the rim, such that the rim 30 is positioned within the ring 20. It can be positioned parallel to and equidistant from both opposite edges (26) of (20). A hub 70 disposed centrally on the rim 30 may be configured to attach a central pivot irrigation system, as shown in Figure 1A, with each lug 50A positioned on the outside of the ring 20 as described above. Can be bolted to the surface. A plurality of through holes 28 are disposed within the outer surface of ring 20 such that each hole is centered (equidally disposed) between opposite edges 26 of ring 20. A circular pattern may be formed around the outer surface of ring 20 parallel to edge 26. Alternatively, two circular patterns of through holes 28 may be disposed within the outer surface of ring 20, with each circular pattern of through holes 28 not only around the outer surface of ring 20. It may be placed at a fixed distance from the corresponding opposite edge 26.

As described above, the position of lug 50A may be determined by the position of through hole 28 disposed on the outer surface of ring 20. As a result of the circular pattern of through holes 28, the attached lugs 50A may also be arranged in a circular pattern around the outer surface of the ring 20, with each of the plurality of lugs forming an opposite edge 26 in a circular pattern. centered evenly between and around the circular ring. The outermost point of each central rib 92 in each lug may form a circular pattern coaxial with the axis of rotation 12 of the circular ring 20. Similarly, the plurality of lugs 50A themselves may form a circular pattern around the outer surface 22 of the ring 20, where the circular pattern is coaxial with the axis of rotation. The circularly arranged lugs 50A are also similar to the lugs 50B and 50C of Figure 6, where the first leg 95A of each lug is between the second legs 95B of the adjacent lug 50A. They may be arranged in an alternating pattern, but all of the lugs 50A may be arranged in a circle around the ring 20 as shown in FIG. 12A. Lug 50A may be configured to attach to another suitable wheel to provide the grip required for the desired application.

The wheel shown in FIGS. 12A-12B provides an example of a wheel that can be implemented with the disclosed lug 50A and is not intended to limit the range of wheels that can be implemented with the lug. Alternative wheels that may utilize the disclosed lugs include the spoke-based wheels described above as well as other spoke-based wheels that can adequately support the weight of an attached irrigation system. The disclosed lugs and their variations can be implemented in any wheel structure capable of providing the wheel functionality required for the irrigation system described above, including spokes 71 connecting the circular ring 20 to the irrigation system, rim 30 ), wheels with legs or other known wheel centers. As such, a wheel 10 for use with a farm irrigation system includes a wheel center, a circular ring 20 disposed around the wheel center and attached to the wheel center, and a plurality of lugs configured to be attached to the circular ring 20. 50A). The described wheel center may include a hub 70 or other similar structure to facilitate necessary attachment of the wheel to the equipment. Ring 20 may be described as circular based purely on its side profile, which is typically circular for the majority of wheels in many industries. The outer surface of the circular ring may be of any other shape capable of maintaining the circular profile of the ring 20 to enable proper movement of attached structures, including sinusoidal and flat edge variations discussed herein. , can be provided in various forms.

13A-13E show a perspective view of a scallop farm irrigation wheel (“scallop wheel”) 120 according to an embodiment. The scallop farm irrigation wheel 120 of FIGS. 13A to 13E may be composed of a ring 20, and the ring is cylindrical. The ring 20 of the scallop farm irrigation wheel 120, similar to the ring 20 in Figure 9, has at least one pattern arranged sinusoidally such that the through holes 28 are disposed on its outer surface 22. A “set”) of through holes 28 may be provided. Unlike the ring 20 of FIG. 9, the ring 20 of the scallop wheel 120 has a flat edge similar to the flat edge 26 of the ring 20 of FIG. 12A, as shown in FIGS. 13A-13E. 26). The scalloped palm wheel 120 may further consist of a rim 30 nested within a ring 20, the rim 30 having an outer perimeter 31 and a plurality of scalloped protrusions (“scalloped protrusions”) 121. has The term “scallop protrusions” 121 may be used to describe pocket-like, alternating protrusions disposed on the rim 30, as shown in FIGS. 13A-13E. The scallop protrusion 121 may be disposed on the outer circumference 31 of the rim. The outer perimeter 31 of the rim 30 may be configured to engage directly with the inner surface 24 of the ring 20, and the position of each scallop projection 121 facilitates the installation of wheel lugs using appropriate tools. Provide sufficient clearance around each through hole 28 of the ring 20 to allow removal. As can be seen in FIGS. 13A-13E, the scallop portion is configured to provide space around the through hole adjacent to the scallop protrusion 121 to facilitate the process of installing or removing the lug from the scallop wheel. The rim 30 with the scalloped projections 121 may be secured to the ring 20 by welding or other suitable methods, or may be monolithically integrated into the ring 20 during manufacturing to form a connection between the rim 30 and the ring 20. This can form a single integrated structure.

The scalloped protrusions 121 disposed on the rim 30 provide increased contact surface between the rim 30 and the ring 20 when compared to the previously disclosed rim 30 lacking the scalloped protrusions 121. An outer circumference 31 of the rim 30 can be created with a reciprocating lateral offset between the edges 26 of the ring 20 to provide: This increased contact surface between rim 30 and ring 20 increases the structural integrity of scallop wheel 120 and may enable it to withstand greater loads without being damaged or deformed. This reciprocating lateral offset of the outer perimeter 31 of the rim 30 may be similar to the arrangement of lugs described for FIG. 4 , where the mating surface between the outer surface 31 of the rim 30 and the ring 20 can produce an approximate sinusoidal curve with amplitude and period. The approximately sinusoidal curve of the engagement surface between the outer circumference 31 of the rim 30 and the ring 20 may be coaxial with the axis of rotation 12 of the wheel. By having through holes 28 and a rim 30 that follows approximately the same pattern (e.g., a sinusoidal pattern) as any attached lug, the rim 30 will provide sufficient support for the central portion of each attached lug. This may provide greater structural integrity of the scallop wheel 120 compared to alternative configurations where the rim 30 does not follow the same pattern as the through holes 28 and any attached lugs.

The reciprocating lateral offset of the outer perimeter 31 may vary depending on the location of nearby through holes 28 as the distance between the outer perimeter 31 and each edge 26 of the ring 20 is further detailed below. It will be explained clearly. The “lateral” direction in the context of “reciprocating lateral offset” may refer to the direction defined by the axis of rotation 12 of the wheel. A hub 70 may be disposed within and secured to the rim 30, wherein the hub 70 is configured to engage a drive train of a suitable vehicle assembly. Like the previously disclosed wheel 10, the disclosed scallop wheel 120 may be configured to rotate around the wheel rotation axis 12 to facilitate vehicle movement.

In order to more easily accommodate the installation/removal of lugs such as the lug 50A of FIG. 12A, on the scallop wheel 120 described above, the direction and position of the scallop protrusion 121 disposed on the rim 30 are relative to the rim. 30 may be configured so as not to block or impede access to each through hole 28 of each pattern or series of through holes arranged in a sinusoidal pattern on the ring 20 . This is achieved by placing a scalloped projection 121 on the rim 30 such that the mating surface between the outer circumference 31 of the rim 30 and the ring 20 is sufficiently spaced from each through hole 28 on the ring 20. This can be achieved by easily manipulating a suitable tool, such as a socket wrench or torque wrench, near the through hole 28 to install/remove bolts, screws or other similar fasteners to secure the lugs to the ring 20, rim (30) may be prevented from blocking or otherwise interfering with the use of said tool. As can be seen in FIGS. 13A-13E, the ring 20 may have two adjacent sets of sinusoidally arranged through holes 28, wherein the set of sinusoidally arranged through holes 28 is shown in FIG. 7D. It is configured to engage with a plurality of lugs, such as the lugs 50A, and each lug is configured to be attached to the ring 20 using two bolts 94. Through holes arranged in two adjacent sets of sinusoids may be arranged such that the sinusoidal pattern defined by each set is in phase with the sinusoidal pattern of the other set. That the two sets are "in phase" with each other means that, as can be seen in FIGS. 13A-13E, the maximum and minimum lateral offsets towards a particular edge 26, and therefore the maximum/minimum amplitude of each sinusoidal pattern, are two Indicates that the set occurs at the same radial angle of the wheel.

Each lug may be configured to engage a single through hole 28 in each set of through holes 28 arranged in a sinusoidal wave such that when installed, each lug is parallel to an adjacent lug, as shown in FIG. 6 . Much like the arrangement of the lugs in Figure 4, each lug is secured to a wheel. Similar to the arrangement of the lugs in Figure 4, any lugs secured to the scallop wheel 120 are disposed on the outer surface of the ring 20 in laterally offset positions relative to each other (see Figure 5) so that they are continuous and possibly continuous. can form a smoothly changing position of the center point, and the lugs can form a sinusoidal curved pattern around the ring 20 of the scallop wheel 120. As can be seen in the scallop wheel 120 of FIGS. 13A-13E, the scalloped portion 121 of the rim 30 is formed by two sets of sinusoids where the mating surfaces between the ring 20 and the rim 30 are always adjacent. It may be configured to be disposed between corresponding adjacent through holes of the arranged through holes 28 . In this embodiment, the position of the scallop portions 121 can provide sufficient clearance around each bolt (not shown) passing through each through hole 28, thus allowing installation of the lugs to the ring 20. And it can facilitate the use of tools configured to facilitate removal.

To facilitate lug installation for alternative scallop wheel configurations, it should be understood that the location and size of the scallop protrusions 121 on the rim 30 of the scallop wheel 120 may be varied. For example, an alternative scallop wheel 120 could have a single set of through holes arranged sinusoidally in ring 20, similar to the way through holes 28 are arranged in ring 20 of Figure 9. However, here the ring 20 has a flat edge 26. If a flat rim, such as the rim 30 of the wheel 10 of FIG. 12A, is utilized in a wheel having a single set of through holes 28 arranged in a sinusoidal wave, a portion of the through holes 28 may be adjacent to the rim 30. ) or the through hole may have insufficient clearance around it to allow proper utilization of tools for manipulating the lug. The scallop portions 121, similar to those shown in FIG. 13A, allow the scallop portions 121 to laterally offset the outer circumference 31 of the rim 30, so that the rim 30 has the through hole ( 28) may be optionally disposed on the rim 30 so as not to block the ring 20 such that the engagement of the ring 20 with the outer circumference 31 of the rim 30 leaves sufficient space around each through hole 28. It is for this purpose.

As described above, the outer perimeter 31 of the scallop rim 30 of FIGS. 13A-13E may have an approximately sinusoidal reciprocating lateral offset as a result of the position of the scallop protrusions 121, and thus the The approximately sinusoidal pattern of the outer perimeter 31 may need to engage the ring 20 so as not to block or otherwise impede access to the through holes. To facilitate this coupling, the approximately sinusoidal pattern of the outer perimeter 31 may in this alternative embodiment be sufficiently laterally offset and in phase with the singular sinusoidal pattern of the through holes 28 . It should be understood that the scallop rim 30 may be associated with lugs in a wheel assembly as both the scallop rim 30 and the lugs may be secured to the ring 20 of the scallop wheel 120.

The disclosed hub 70 of the scallop wheel 120 may be configured to suitably engage the drive train of a central pivot irrigation system. The hub 70 may be fixed within the inner circumference 32 of the rim 30 through welding or similar methods, or may be monolithically integrated into the rim 30. The disclosed scallop wheel 120 is compatible with two common size variants of drive units used in the industry: short shaft drive unit and long shaft drive unit variants. Because these drive train variants all have the same stud pattern, the disclosed stud through holes 72 in the hub 70 of the disclosed scallop wheel 120 are appropriately configured to couple the scallop wheel 120 to either drive train variant. can be placed. The disclosed scallop wheel 120 can be provided with a built-in lateral offset 122 between the hub 70 and the ring 20, which allows the scallop wheel 120 and the drive unit of a single-axis drive train variant (not shown) It provides a lateral gap between the scallop wheel 120 and the drive unit to prevent them from colliding during operation. The term “built-in lateral offset” refers to the lateral displacement of the hub 70 (e.g., along the wheel axis 12) compared to the central portion of the ring 20, wherein the ring 20 It should be understood that the central portion of is disposed centrally between the edges 26 of said 20. This built-in lateral offset 122 ensures proper operation of the wheel 120 by providing greater clearance between the scallop wheel 120 and the drive unit of the long axis drive train variant. The ability of the disclosed scallop wheel 120 of FIGS. 13A-13E to be utilized with either of the two drive shaft lengths (short or long) used in the industry allows the scallop wheel 120 to be used in any of the drive train variations described. One design for use across all simplifies manufacturing.

The disclosed rim 30 of the scallop wheel 120 may be configured to greatly resist deformation and damage while the scallop wheel 120 withstands heavy loads. As a result of the robust and uniform design of the rim 30 and the reciprocating lateral offset of the outer circumference 31 of the rim 30, and thus the lateral reciprocating interface between the rim 30 and the ring 20 of the scallop wheel 120. , the scallop wheel 120 may be capable of supporting a heavier load than a wheel using spokes or a flat rim to attach the wheel hub 70 to the ring 20. The reciprocating interface due to the reciprocating lateral offset of the outer circumference 31 of the scallop rim 30 provides a larger interface area between the rim 30 and the ring 20 when compared to the previously disclosed flat rim, thereby providing a scallop wheel ( 120) improves structural integrity and load-bearing capacity. Similar to the conventionally disclosed spokes 71 of FIG. 6, the disclosed scallop protrusions 121 also increase the surface area of the wheel to which the shape of each scallop protrusion is attached, thereby increasing the surface area of each scallop wheel while the wheel is partially submerged in soft soil. It can help increase engagement with the ground, thus increasing the traction of the scallop wheel with the ground when locked. For example, each scallop protrusion 121 may act like a paddle to grip the soil and help dig out the scallop wheel 120 when the scallop wheel 120 is submerged in soft or loose soil.

The disclosed scallop rim 30 of FIGS. 13A to 13E has a scallop protrusion 121, and thus a reciprocating outer perimeter 31, such that the interface between the scallop rim 30 and the ring 20 is provided for installation or removal. It will be appreciated that the lugs may be used within any ring 20 disclosed herein, as long as they are properly configured to provide sufficient clearance around each through hole 28 on the ring 20 to allow adequate access to the lugs. . The rim 30 and ring 20 of the disclosed scallop wheel 120 may be secured to each other using welding or other suitable attachment methods known in the art. The disclosed scallop wheel 120 and each wheel 10 described above may be manufactured as a monolithic body through manufacturing techniques such as injection molding. As with all wheels 10 disclosed herein, the disclosed parts and components of scallop wheel 120 may be made of metal or other known materials having appropriate tensile strength, elasticity, flexibility and other properties to achieve the intended purpose of the wheel. It can be manufactured with The disclosed configuration of the scalloped rim 30 shown in FIGS. 13A-13E requires a wheel with improved load bearing capacity while ensuring that the rim 30 leaves sufficient clearance around each through hole 28. , which may be desirable in applications that maintain the ability of the wheel to provide traction when partially submerged in loose soil.

The term "circular pattern" may also be used to describe the arrangement of through holes 28, and thus the lug arrangement shown in Figures 13A-13E, where the through holes 28 are ring ( Arranged in a sinusoidal fashion around the outer surface 22 of the 20), the arrangement is shown circularly from the side profile view, similar to that shown in Figures 13c to 13d, and from the front profile view, similar to that shown in Figure 13e. It should be understood that it is depicted as a sine wave. It should also be understood that the term "circular pattern" may be used to describe the type of lug arrangement (and corresponding through hole 28 arrangement) shown in the figures. 12A-12B, the lugs 50A and the corresponding through holes 28 are arranged linearly around the outer surface of the ring 20, the arrangement being circular in the side profile view and linear in the front profile view. It is described as The pattern of through holes 28 shown in Figures 9 and Figures 13a to 13e, and thus the pattern of correspondingly attached lugs, may be more specifically referred to as a “sinusoidal pattern”. Similarly, the pattern of lugs 50A shown in FIGS. 12A-12B, and thus the corresponding pattern of through holes 28 used to secure them, may be more specifically referred to as a “linear pattern.” Accordingly, both “sinusoidal patterns” and “linear patterns” described herein should be understood as different types of “circular patterns.”

It may be advantageous to specify definitions of certain words and phrases used in this patent document. “Couple” and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication between two or more elements, regardless of whether those elements are in physical contact with each other. The term “or” means and/or in an inclusive sense. The phrases “associate” and “connected to” and their derivatives include, are included within, are interconnected, accommodate, are accommodated within, are connected to or linked to, are joined to or are combined with, communicate, cooperate, interleave, juxtapose, proximity, It may mean combined with or combined with, having, having properties, or something similar.

Also, as used in this application, “plural” means two or more. A “set” of items may include one or more of such items. In the written description or claims, terms such as "comprise", "includes", "has", "have", "contains", "includes", etc. are used as open-ended, i.e., including but not limited to: It should be understood to mean that Only the transitions "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" are respectively closed or semi-closed transitions with respect to the claims.

When ordinal terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. are present in a claim to modify claim elements, they by themselves give priority, priority, or order to one claim element over another. Or, it does not imply the temporal order in which the actions of the method are performed. These terms are merely used as labels to distinguish one claim element with a particular name from another claim element with the same name (except that ordinal terms are used to distinguish claim elements). As used in this application, “and/or” means that the listed item is an alternative, but alternatives include any combination of the listed item.

Throughout this specification, the depicted aspects, embodiments or examples are to be regarded as illustrative and not limiting on the disclosed or claimed devices or procedures. Although some of the embodiments may include specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should be understood that such acts and such elements may be combined in different ways to achieve the same purpose.

Acts, elements and features discussed only in connection with one aspect, embodiment or example are not intended to be excluded from playing a similar role in another aspect, embodiment or example.

Aspects, embodiments, or examples of the invention may be described as a process, which is typically depicted using a flowchart, flowchart, schematic, or block diagram. A flowchart can depict tasks as sequential processes, but many tasks may be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Additionally, the order of tasks can be rearranged. With respect to flowcharts, it should be understood that additional and fewer steps may be performed and that the steps shown may be combined or further broken down to achieve the described methods.

When a means-plus-function limitation is stated in a claim, the means are not limited to the means disclosed in this application to perform the stated function, but rather any equivalents now known or later developed to perform the stated function. It is intended to include within its scope only one measure.

A claim limitation shall be construed as a means-plus-function limitation only if the claim cites the term “means” in connection with the recited function.

Where presented, claims relating to methods and/or processes should not be limited to performance of the steps in the order in which they are stated, as those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the order may be varied and still remain within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Although aspects, embodiments and/or examples have been illustrated and described herein, those skilled in the art can achieve the same results without departing from the scope of the invention and can use the aspects, embodiments and/or examples illustrated and described herein. You will easily find identical and/or equivalent variations that can be replaced with . Accordingly, the scope of the present application is intended to include such alternative aspects, embodiments and/or examples. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and corresponding claims. Additionally, each and every claim is incorporated herein by way of additional disclosure.

Claims (20)

As a wheel,
a circular ring having an outer surface and an axis of rotation; and a plurality of lugs mounted in parallel positions on the outer surface of the circular ring,
Each lug has: a central rib, a first leg and a second leg, each leg extending laterally and in opposite directions from the central rib, and a lug plate configured to connect the first leg to the central rib, A wheel, the lugs of which form a circular pattern coaxial with the axis of rotation. According to claim 1,
A wheel further comprising a plurality of through holes disposed in the outer surface and forming a sinusoidal pattern around the outer surface, the sinusoidal pattern being coaxial with the axis of rotation. According to claim 1,
The circular pattern is a sinusoidal pattern, wheel. According to claim 1,
A wheel, wherein the plurality of lugs are arranged in an alternating pattern such that a first leg of each lug is disposed between second legs of adjacent lugs. According to claim 1,
A wheel, wherein each lug of the plurality of lugs has an overmolded layer of rubber. According to claim 1,
A wheel further comprising a rim nested within a circular ring, the rim having a plurality of alternating scalloped protrusions on an outer perimeter of the rim. According to clause 6,
Wherein the scallop protrusions are configured to provide spacing around each through hole of a plurality of through holes disposed on the outer surface of the ring. As a wheel,
comprising a plurality of lugs mounted in parallel positions to form a circular ring,
A wheel, each lug having: a central rib, a first leg and a second leg, each leg extending laterally and in opposite directions from the central rib, and a lug plate configured to connect the first leg to the central rib. According to clause 8,
The plurality of lugs are arranged in an alternating pattern such that the first leg of each lug is disposed between the second legs of adjacent lugs. According to clause 8,
A wheel further comprising a rim associated with the plurality of lugs, the rim having a plurality of scalloped protrusions. As a lug for use in a wheel,
The lug includes: a central rib, a first leg and a second leg, each leg extending laterally and in opposite directions from the central rib, and a lug plate configured to connect the first leg to the central rib. According to claim 11,
The lug further comprising a bolt hole disposed within the flat portion of the first leg and a bolt hole disposed within the flat portion of the second leg. According to claim 11,
A lug further comprising a bolt hole disposed within the center of the lug. According to claim 11,
A lug further comprising a lug plate configured to connect the second leg to the central rib. According to claim 11,
A lug further comprising a cutout disposed within each lug plate. According to claim 11,
Each lug plate has a triangular cross-section. According to claim 11,
The first leg and the second leg form a W shape with a central rib. According to claim 11,
A rug, wherein the rug has an overmolded layer of rubber. According to claim 11,
A rug, wherein the rug is made of rubber and reinforced by a metal internal frame disposed therein. According to clause 19,
The metal inner frame is a single monolithic structure.