WO2011132186A1 - Jack for lifting wheels of motor vehicles to axle height - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus and method for mounting or dismounting a wheel onto or from the axle of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a lever mechanism and a force actuator. The lever mechanism supports the wheel in an upright position in proximity to the axle. The force actuator propels a first lever end toward a second lever end, such that the lever mechanism stably holds and lifts the wheel off the ground into a desired position with respect to the axle, and propels the first lever end away from the second lever end, such that the lever mechanism stably holds and lowers the wheel away from the axle. Rollers on the lever mechanism contact and securely support the wheel, and permit wheel rotation. A locomotive mechanism of the apparatus enables displacement of the apparatus forward, backward or laterally with respect to the axle. The apparatus may be adjustable to accommodate different wheel sizes.

Description

JACK FOR LIFTING WHEELS OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO AXLE HEIGHT

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSED TECHNIQUE

The disclosed technique relates to the handling of a vehicle wheel assembly with a pneumatic tire, in general, and to an apparatus and method for mounting, dismounting and supporting a wheel, in particular.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSED TECHNIQUE

Mounting a spare wheel with an inflated tire onto a vehicle when replacing a flat tire can be very frustrating. In one scenario, the perforations in the metal disk of the wheel have to be aligned and then engaged with the studs protruding from the wheel axle on the vehicle. In a second and more complicated scenario, the perforations in the wheel have to be aligned with the threaded bores on the axle, and then bolts have to be inserted and secured into the threaded bores. One is thus required to lift the wheel to the correct height, appropriately position the perforations in the wheel with respect to the hub, and then screw the bolts into the threaded bores, all of which must be performed manually, which is especially demanding when implemented entirely by a single person. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSED TECHNIQUE

In accordance with one aspect of the disclosed technique, there is thus provided an apparatus for mounting or dismounting a wheel onto or from the axle of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a lever mechanism and a force actuator. The lever mechanism is operative for supporting the wheel in an upright position in proximity to the axle. The force actuator is operative to propel the lever mechanism to stably hold and reposition the wheel with respect to the axle, to enable the mounting of the wheel onto the axle or the dismounting of the wheel from the axle. The lever mechanism may include at least a first lever and a second lever, where a first end of the first lever is pivotally coupled with one side of a frame portion of the apparatus, and a first end of the second lever is pivotally coupled with the other side of the frame portion. The second end of the first lever and the second end of the second lever support the wheel in an upright position. The force actuator is coupled with the first lever and with the second lever. The force actuator propels the second end of the first lever toward the second end of the second lever, so that the lever mechanism stably holds and lifts the wheel into a desired position with respect to the axle. The force actuator further propels the second end of the first lever away from the second end of the second lever, so that the lever mechanism stably holds and lowers the wheel away from the axle. The first lever and the second lever follow an arc trajectory when moving toward or away from each other. The lever mechanism may include at least one roller, in contact with and securely supporting the wheel, and permitting rotation of the wheel thereon. A first roller may be disposed on the second end of the first lever, and a second roller may be disposed on the second end of the second lever. The first roller may be substantially aligned with the second roller while securely supporting the wheel. The roller may include a narrow inner portion between thicker outer portions, for providing stable and secure support of the wheel. The apparatus may include a locomotive mechanism coupled with the frame portion, for moving the apparatus forward, backward or laterally with respect to the axle. The apparatus may further include a traction tread, onto which the apparatus is positioned to provide a stable surface for the displacement of the apparatus via the locomotive mechanism. The force actuator may be coupled with the lever mechanism via a pulley mechanism. The apparatus may be collapsible to a smaller size. The apparatus may be adjustable to accommodate different sizes of the wheel, such as by extending or retracting the frame portion, extending or retracting at least one lever of the lever mechanism, coupling at least one bracket between the lever mechanism and the frame portion at a selective position, and extending or retracting the bracket.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosed technique, there is thus provided a method for mounting or dismounting a wheel onto the axle of a vehicle. The method includes the procedures of supporting the wheel in an upright position in proximity to the axle with a lever mechanism, and propelling the lever mechanism to stably hold and reposition the wheel with respect to the axle, to enable the mounting of the wheel onto the axle or the dismounting of the wheel from the axle. The procedure of supporting the wheel may include positioning the wheel in an upright position in proximity to the axle, aligning at least a first lever and a second lever around the wheel along the ground, and supporting the wheel in an upright position with an end of the first lever and an end of the second lever. The procedure of propelling the lever mechanism may include propelling the end of the first lever toward the end of the second lever, such that the lever mechanism stably holds and lifts the wheel off the ground and into a desired position with respect to the axle, enabling the mounting of the wheel onto the axle. The procedure of propelling the lever mechanism may include propelling the end of the first lever away from the end of the second lever, such that the lever mechanism stably holds and lowers the wheel away from the axle. The method may further include the procedure of rotating the wheel into a desired rotational position for mounting onto the axle, while the wheel is lifted. The method may further include the procedure of moving the apparatus forward, backward or laterally with respect to the axle, by moving a frame portion supporting the lever mechanism in the desired direction. The method may further include the procedure of positioning the apparatus onto a traction tread, to provide a stable surface for the displacement of the apparatus with respect to the axle. The method may further include the procedure of adjusting the apparatus to accommodate different sizes of the wheel, such as by extending or retracting a frame portion coupled with the lever mechanism, extending or retracting at least one lever of the lever mechanism, coupling at least one bracket between the lever mechanism and the frame portion at a selective position, and extending or retracting the bracket.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosed technique will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in which:

Figure 1a is a schematic illustration of a lever mechanism, permitting the lifting and positioning of a wheel of a vehicle, where the wheel is in a lowered position, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technique;

Figure 1 b is a schematic illustration of the lever mechanism of Figure 1a, where the wheel is in a raised position;

Figure 2 is a front view schematic illustration of a portion of a wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus, constructed and operative in accordance an embodiment of the disclosed technique;

Figure 3 is a perspective view schematic illustration of the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus of Figure 2;

Figure 4 is a detailed front view schematic illustration of the force actuator of the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus of Figure 2, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technique;

Figure 5 is a perspective view schematic illustration of the force actuator of Figure 4; Figure 6 is a front view schematic illustration of a wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus, constructed and operative in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosed technique;

Figure 7 is a detailed front view schematic illustration of the force actuator of the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus of Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a front view schematic illustration of a wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus, constructed and operative in accordance with a further embodiment of the disclosed technique;

Figure 9 is a front view schematic illustration of the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus of Figure 8 being applied to a wheel;

Figure 10A is a perspective view schematic illustration of a traction tread for use in conjunction with the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus of the disclosed technique; and

Figure 10B is a top view schematic illustration of the traction tread of Figure 10A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The disclosed technique provides a novel apparatus and method for facilitating the process of mounting or dismounting a wheel assembly when replacing a pneumatic tire on a vehicle. The term "wheel" is used herein to indicate a bolt-detachable wheel-assembly of a vehicle having a wheel made of pressed metal with a wheel disk at the center of a rim supporting a pneumatic tire.

Reference is now made to Figures 1a and 1 b. Figure 1a is a schematic illustration of a lever mechanism, generally referenced 100, permitting the lifting and positioning of a wheel, referenced 1 , of a vehicle (not shown), where the wheel is in a lowered position, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technique. Figure 1 b is a schematic illustration of the lever mechanism of Figure 1a, where the wheel is in a raised position. Wheel 1 , with a circumference 3, is supported on contact points C and C, which are the free ends of levers 5 and 5' of mechanism 100, pivotally retained at point A. The levers 5 and 5' form an angle a with the ground G, designated as the horizontal axis x. Lever mechanism 100 is symmetrical with respect to the vertical axis z.

When wheel 1 rests on contact points C and C of mechanism 100 and on ground G (Figure 1a), then the center 0 of wheel 1 is at height H, which also equals the radius R of wheel 1. The wheel center 0 will rise to a new height above the x-axis, when the angle a is increased. Mechanism 100 operates as a four-bar mechanism to lift the wheel center 0 along the vertical z when the angle a equally and simultaneously increase to the angle a1. Figure 1 b shows angle α1 , which is greater than angle a, where the center 0 has risen to the height H1. The wheel center 0 has been forced to rise under the lifting action of levers 5 and 5' and due to the fact that the contact points (respectively referenced C1 and C'1 in Figure 1b) are compelled to follow the trajectory of the circumference 3. It is noted that contact points C1 and C'1 (Figure 1 b) are closer together than are contact points C and C (Figure a).

Reference is now made to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is a front view schematic illustration of a portion of a wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus, referenced 101 , constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technique. Figure 3 is a perspective view schematic illustration of the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus of Figure 2. For the sake of orientation, a set of orthogonal coordinates is provided, with a z-axis perpendicular to the ground G and an origin O at the intersection of the z-axis and the ground G. Ground G is coplanar with the x-y plane, with the x-axis being disposed in the plane of Figure 2. Since apparatus 101 is substantially symmetrical about the z-axis, reference numerals for elements on the negative side of the x-axis (i.e., to the left of the z-axis) are provided as the same reference numeral tagged (') as the corresponding element on the positive side of the x-axis. For example, lever 5' on the negative x- axis is disposed in symmetry about the z-axis with lever 5. Apparatus 101 includes a frame 12, a lifting mechanism 13, and a force actuator 15. Lifting mechanism 13 includes a pair of front levers 5 and 5', a pair of back levers 6 and 6', a pair of tire supports 17 and 17', and a driving device 19. Frame 12 includes a front frame section 11 and side frame sections 23 and 23'. One end 211 of front frame section 11 adjoins side frame section 23 in a perpendicular manner, while the other end 211' of front frame section 11 adjoins side frame section 23' in a perpendicular manner. Frame 12 is thus symmetric about the y-axis and the z-axis, and forms a U-shape. First front lever 5 is pivotally coupled to frame 12 at a front base-pivot A, located at end 211 of front frame section 11. First back lever 6 is pivotally coupled to frame 12 at a back base-pivot

B, located at end 212 of side frame section 23. Correspondingly, second front lever 5' is pivotally coupled to frame 12 at a front base-pivot A', located at end 211 ' of front frame section 11 , while second back lever 6' (not shown) is pivotally coupled to frame 12 at a back base-pivot B' (not shown), located at end 212' (not shown) of side frame section 23'. Tire support 17 is rotatably coupled between one end of levers 5 and 6 about contact-pivots C, on one side of frame 12, while tire support 17' is rotatably coupled between one end of levers 5' and 6' about contact-pivots

C, on the other side of frame 12. Tire supports 17 and 17' may thus describe an arc of a circle when pivoted about the respective base-pivots A, B, A' and B'. Force actuator 15 is pivotally coupled to first and second front mid-pivot points P and P', disposed on each one of levers 5 and 5', respectively. Driving device 19 is coupled to force actuator 15.

Apparatus 101 is in engagement with a wheel 1 , which is resting on ground G. As described above, wheel 1 will lift when force actuator 15 propels tire supports 17 and 17' toward each other. According to an embodiment of the disclosed technique, each tire support 17 and 17' is configured as a roller, providing free rotation and low friction with the circumference 3 of wheel 1 , which corresponds to the sole or thread of the tire. Roller 17 (and correspondingly roller 17') is hollow, and features a narrow inner waist portion 17M between thicker outer portions 171 and 172, to securely retain and stabilize wheel 1 in the vertical position. It is appreciated that rollers 17 and 17' may be embodied in an alternative size, shape or configuration. It is noted that rollers 17 and 17' accommodate wheel 1 in a stable and secure retention, even when apparatus 101 is in motion along ground G.

It is appreciated that levers 5 and 6 (and correspondingly levers 5' and 6') may alternatively be embodied by a single lever (i.e., rather than a pair of levers). It is noted that front lever 5 includes a pivot point P, disposed between retained end base-pivot A and free end contact-pivot C, while lever 6 does not. A bracket 31 is pivotally coupled at an outward end 33 thereof to pivot point P. The opposite end 35 of bracket 31 , which is bent, is operative with force actuator 15, as will be further explained herein below. When bracket 31 is shifted along the x-axis (i.e., parallel to ground G), lever 5 pivots about base-pivot A, causing roller 17 to follow the trajectory of an arc centered at base-pivot A. A corresponding bracket 31 ' is mounted on a pivot point P' of back lever 5', symmetrically to bracket 31 about the z-axis. Similarly, roller 17' follows the trajectory of an arc centered at base-pivot A' when bracket 31 ' is shifted along the x-axis, causing lever 5' to pivot about base-pivot A'. It is noted that bracket 31 ' is longer than bracket 31.

Reference is now made to Figures 4 and 5. Figure 4 is a detailed front view schematic illustration of the force actuator of the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus (101 ) of Figure 2, constructed and operative in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technique. Figure 5 is a perspective view schematic illustration of the force actuator of Figure 4. Force actuator 15 is mounted asymmetrically with respect to the x-axis (i.e., closer to levers 5 and 6 than to levers 5' and 6'), but may alternatively be disposed substantially centered, or closer to the other side of apparatus 101. Force actuator 15 is operable to move rollers 17 and 17' towards and away from each other, by respectively, pulling together and pushing away brackets 31 and 31 '. Force actuator 15 operates by means of an opposite-direction screw-thread mechanism, as commonly found in scissor-jacks for lifting cars. One half of a threaded rod 41 is covered with a right-hand screw-thread 43, and the other half of threaded rod 41 is covered with a left-hand screw-thread 43'. Bent end 35 of bracket 31 and bent end 35' of bracket 31 ' each fixedly retain a threaded nut, referenced 47 and 47' respectively, which are accommodated to fit the right hand screw-thread 43 and the left-hand screw-thread 43' of the threaded rod 41 , respectively. Centering disk 49 separates between right-hand screw-thread 43 and left-hand screw-thread 43'. Centering disk 49 is coupled perpendicularly to the middle of threaded rod 41. Centering disk 49 is prevented from shifting along the x-axis but is rotatable inside slot 51 , which is cut vertically into the vertical portion 53 of position bracket 55. The horizontal portion 57 of position bracket 55 is fixedly coupled with front frame section 11.

A first end of threaded rod 41 terminates at a straight rod 61 , extending horizontally outward from front frame section 11. In Figure 4, rod 61 is shown attached to right-hand screw-thread 43. A handle 63 is coupled perpendicular to rod 61. When handle 63 is rotated in one direction (e.g., clockwise), threaded rod 41 urges threaded nuts 47 and 47' together, thereby drawing rollers 17 and 17' toward each other. Correspondingly, when handle 63 is rotated in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise), rollers 17 and 17' are drawn away from each other. Handle 63 is an exemplary means for enabling the application of rotational motion, however alternative mechanisms, such as a knob or an attachment to a rotation imparting tool, may also be used. Force-actuator 15 is not necessarily operated manually, but rather, rotation may be generated by an automated mechanism, such as an electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic motor. Other force actuator mechanisms such as ratchet drives, and gear mechanisms, such as gear-and-track devices, may also be used.

It is noted that the pitch of screw-threads 43 and 43' on threaded rod 41 is selectable as desired. A fine-pitch screw-thread will permit a very precise height adjustment of wheel 1 as it is being supported by rollers 17 and 17' in a safe and stable manner, for precise alignment of the apertures in wheel 1 with respect to the studs or threaded bores in the hub.

It is appreciated that lifting mechanism 13 has a first mechanical advantage provided by the pitch of the screw-threads of threaded rod 41 , and a second mechanical advantage provided by the location of pivot point P relative to base-pivot A and contact-pivot C on lever 5.

In practical usage, after a wheel with a flat tire is dismounted, a replacement wheel 1 is rolled towards the vehicle axle onto which the wheel is to be mounted and is rested on the ground G substantially vertically. Apparatus 101 is then engaged such that rollers 17 and 17' are positioned at opposite sides of replacement wheel 1. Driving device 19 is rotated, engaging rollers 17 and 17' to first come into contact with the circumference 3 of wheel 1 , and then to start lifting wheel 1 , which is safely and stably held in place by the force applied to wheel 1 by the two rollers 17 and 17'. Once the desired height is reached, wheel 1 is adjustably rotated on rollers 17 and 17' and the perforations therein are controllably aligned with the studs or disposed with the threaded bores on the axle. Next, apparatus 101 is positioned to engage wheel 1 onto the studs, and further, to screw the locking nuts thereon. Alternatively, the bolts are engaged in the threaded bores via the perforations, and locked. Once the wheel hub is coupled to the vehicle axle, rollers 17 and 17' can be disengaged from wheel 1 , and then apparatus 101 can be stowed away.

Apparatus 101 is further operable to lower wheel 1 , such as for enabling wheel 1 to be dismounted from the axle. Accordingly, apparatus 101 is lifted to the appropriate height, rollers 17 and 17' are brought into contact with circumference 3 of wheel 1 , and wheel 1 is loosened from the axle and gradually lowered to the ground G.

It is noted that apparatus 101 is configured to match a particular size of wheel 1. In order to accommodate a larger range of sizes for wheel 1 , the length of bracket 31' (or 31 ) or of front frame section 11 may be adjusted accordingly. To this end, bracket 31 ' (and/or 31 ) and front frame section 11 may be implemented as telescopic or length-adjustable assemblies that can be retracted and extended as required. Alternatively, the length of lever 5 or lever 5' may be extendable and retractable. Further alternatively, the position at which bracket 31 or 31' is coupled to its respective lever at one end, or the position at which bracket 31 or 31 ' is coupled to frame section 11 at the other end, may be adjusted. Apparatus 101 may be collapsible to a small size, providing portability and reduced storage space.

Apparatus 101 may alternatively be configured such that only one pair of levers are pivotable about front frame section 11 at the base-pivot. For example, levers 5 and 6 may be pivotable about front frame section 11 at base-pivot A, while levers 5' and 6' are fixed with respect to front frame section 11 (i.e., base-pivot A' is eliminated).

Reference is now made to Figure 6, which is a front view schematic illustration of a wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus, referenced 201 , constructed and operative in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosed technique. The components of apparatus 201 are generally analogous to those of apparatus 101 (Figures 2, 3, 4 and 5). Rollers 17 and 17' are supported by two pairs of levers (only front levers 5 and 5' shown). The other end of lever 5 is coupled to front frame section 11 at base-pivot A, while the other end of lever 5' is coupled to front frame section 11 at base-pivot A'. Apparatus 201 includes a pair of bars 71 and 71 ' disposed parallel to front frame section 11. An exterior end 73 of bar 71 is pivotally coupled to a pivot point P on front lever 5 (similar to bracket 31 of apparatus 101 ), while an interior end 75 of bar 71 is pivotally coupled at a force-pivot 77 to an extension lever 79. Extension lever 79 includes a first portion configured as a first gear segment 81 , and a second portion that extends out and away from segment 81 into a first tongue 83. Gear segment 81 is pivotally coupled to front frame section 11 at a segment pivot 85 disposed below force-pivot 77. Tongue 83 includes an upper-pivot 87 retaining a nut element 91.

Correspondingly, exterior end 73' of bar 71 ' is pivotally coupled to pivot point P' on front lever 5', while interior end 75' of bar 71 ' is pivotally coupled at force-pivot 77' to extension lever 79'. Extension lever 79' includes gear segment 81 ' and second tongue 83'. Gear segment 81 ' is pivotally coupled to front frame section 11 at segment pivot 85' disposed below force-pivot 77'. Tongue 83' includes upper-pivot 87' retaining nut element 91 '.

When teeth 93 of gear segment 81 engage the teeth 93' of gear segment 81 ', the resultant force applied about upper-pivots 87 and 87' induces movement of rollers 17 and 17', respectively, following an arc trajectory.

Force actuator 215 of apparatus 201 includes actuation rod 111 having a first portion covered by single-direction screw-thread 3 and a second portion represented by cylindrical rod 115. A handle 63 for enabling the application of rotational motion is disposed at one end 117 of cylindrical rod 115. Handle 63, or an alternative mechanism for imparting rotational motion, may be coupled at either end of rod 115, or alternatively there may be a separate handle 63 on each end thereof.

Reference is now made to Figure 7, which is a detailed front view schematic illustration of the force actuator (215) of the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus (201 ) of Figure 6. Nut element 91 is pivotally retained between front tongue 83 and back tongue 84, which are aligned in parallel, and engages screw-thread 113. Bushings 123 and 123' are pivotally retained between front tongue 83' and back tongue 84'. Cylindrical rod 115 is longitudinally retained between bushing 123 and bushing 123' by a pair of retention elements 125 and 125', such as collars or pins, which prevent the shifting of cylindrical rod 115 relative to bushing 123 and 123'. During operation, force actuator 15 draws first pair of tongues 83 and 84 toward or away from second pair of tongues 83' and 84', depending on the direction of the rotational motion imparted by handle 63.

It is appreciated that force actuator 215 of apparatus 201 utilizes the following mechanical features: the pitch of screw-thread 113, the leverage gained by the disposition of force pivot 77 relative to segment pivot 85 and to upper pivot 87, and the leverage gained by the disposition of pivot point P relative to base-pivot A and to contact-pivot C.

Reference is now made to Figure 8, which is a front view schematic illustration of a wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus, referenced 301 , constructed and operative in accordance with a further embodiment of the disclosed technique. Apparatus 301 is analogous to apparatus 101 with the exceptions that the force actuator 315 of apparatus 301 is embodied by a hydraulic pump, pulley mechanisms 304, 304', 302 and 302' are employed, and apparatus 301 is adjustable in size. Hydraulic pumps are generally known in the art, as used for example with hydraulic jacks and similar devices. Rollers 317 and 317', levers 305 and 305', front frame section 311 , pivot-points P and P', and contact-points C and C of apparatus 301 are analogous to rollers 17 and 17', levers 5 and 5', front frame section 11 , pivot-points P and P', and contact-points C and C of apparatus 101 , respectively.

Rollers 317 and 317' are supported by two pairs of levers (only front levers 305 and 305' shown). The other ends of levers 305 and 305' are respectively coupled to front frame section extensions 312 and 312' at respective pivot-points P and P'. Front frame section 311 is extendable in length, in order to adapt to different sized wheels, by removing pins 322 and 322' which extend outwards from front frame section extensions 312 and 312', and reinserting pins 322 and 322' into bores that align along front frame section 311 and front frame section extensions 312 and 312'.

Force actuator 315 is coupled with rollers 317 and 317' via a pair of pulley mechanisms, in a symmetrical manner. One end of a chain 302 is coupled to a piston 308, and the other end of chain 302 is coupled to roller 317 via a bracket 320 at contact-point C. Chain 302 forms a pulley mechanism by being threaded under a pulley wheel 304. Correspondingly, one end of chain 302' is coupled to piston 308, and the other end of chain 302' is coupled to roller 317' via bracket 320' at contact-point C, where chain 302' is threaded under pulley wheel 304'. Chains 302 and 302' may alternatively be embodied by other suitable forms of linkage elements, such as cables, wires, ropes, and the like. It is noted that in order to adapt apparatus 301 to larger sized wheels, bracket 320 can be adjusted to couple to roller 317 at connection slots 318 or 319 that are located at different positions. Front frame section 31 is fitted with caster wheels 331 , 332 and 332' to facilitate the positioning of wheel 309 with respect to the vehicle axle, by enabling the lateral movement of front frame section 311 toward the desired direction. Caster wheels 331 , 332 and 332' may also allow for the movement of front frame section 311 in a forward or backward direction with respect to the vehicle axle. Caster wheels 331 , 332 and 332' may alternatively be embodied by an alternative locomotive mechanism, such as a conveyor system, for enabling movement of wheel 309 (i.e., forward, backward, or to the side, with respect to the axle) as wheel 309 is being held and supported by rollers 317 and 3 7' and levers 305 and 305'). Such a locomotive mechanism is especially useful for large wheels, such as those of trucks.

Reference is now made to Figure 9, which is a front view schematic illustration of the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus (301 ) of Figure 8 being applied to a wheel, referenced 309. In order to mount wheel 309 onto an axle, apparatus 301 is positioned such that force actuator 315 is disposed in front of wheel 309. Wheel 309 is then mechanically lifted by engaging the hydraulic pump of force actuator 315, thereby lifting piston 308. In turn, the lifting of piston 308 pulls on chains 302 and 302', causing levers 305 and 305' to pivot about their respective pivot points P and P', and causing rollers 317 and 317' to move towards each other, while rising slightly upwards. Rollers 317 and 317' in turn apply a lifting force onto the base of wheel 309. In this manner, wheel 309 is gradually lifted to the desired height in order to enable the mounting of wheel 309 onto the vehicle axle. Wheel 309 is then mechanically rotated in order to align the perforations 340 in the metal disk of wheel 309 with the studs protruding from the axle, or alternatively to align the perforations 340 in wheel 309 with the threaded bores on the axle and then insert and secure bolts into the threaded bores (depending on the wheel and axle types). A wrench 336 (or an alternative suitable tool) is used to rotate roller 317, which in turn rotates wheel 309 by frictional force. Roller 317 facilitates the rotational motion of wheel 309 by rotating in response to the rotation of wheel 309. Wheel 309 may alternatively be rotated by actively rotating both rollers 317 and 317', or by manually applying a rotational force directly to wheel 309.

The apparatus of the disclosed technique is generally applicable to allow the mounting or dismounting of various sized wheels of different types of vehicles, such as: automobiles, motorcycles, vans, trucks, buses, four-wheel drive (4x4) vehicles, jeeps, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), off- road vehicles, and the like. The components of the apparatus of the disclosed technique may be made from any suitable material, such as metal (e.g., iron, steel, aluminum, magnesium, titanium, a metal alloy), plastic, composite materials, and the like. The vehicle requiring a wheel replacement could potentially be situated on unstable terrain, such as sand, mud, gravel, and the like. In such a scenario, the apparatus of the disclosed technique can be positioned onto a separate high-traction surface, such as a traction tread, to facilitate the displacement of the apparatus (i.e., forward, backward and lateral movement relative to the vehicle axle) while mounting or dismounting the wheel. Reference is now made to Figures 10A and 10B. Figure 10A is a perspective view schematic illustration of a traction tread, generally referenced 340, for use in conjunction with the wheel mounting and dismounting apparatus of the disclosed technique. Figure 10B is a top view schematic illustration of the traction tread 340 of Figure 10A. If the vehicle is situated on a substantially unstable surface, the user positions traction tread 340 adjacent to the appropriate wheel axle of the vehicle, and then places apparatus 101 , 201 or 301 onto traction tread 340. The user may then proceed to mount a replacement wheel onto the wheel axle using the apparatus of the disclosed technique as outlined hereinabove. Traction tread 340 provides apparatus 101 , 201 or 301 with a stable surface to enable its displacement (i.e., via caster wheels 331 , 332 and 332' or an alternative locomotive mechanism) and the accurate positioning of apparatus 101 , 201 or 301 relative to the wheel axle as required during the wheel mounting or dismounting. Traction tread 340 is preferably substantially slip resistant, ensuring effective and precise movement of caster wheels 331 , 332 and 332' in the desired direction. Traction tread 340 may be configured in a grid pattern, forming a grating (as depicted in Figures 10A and 10B), in order to minimize weight and manufacturing material. Traction tread 340 may alternatively be designed in a different configuration (e.g., perforated, solid), and may be fabricated from any suitable materials.

In accordance with the disclosed technique, a method for mounting or dismounting a wheel onto or from the axle of a vehicle includes supporting the wheel in an upright position in proximity to the axle with a lever mechanism, and propelling the lever mechanism to stably hold and reposition the wheel with respect to the axle, to enable the mounting of the wheel onto the axle or the dismounting of the wheel from the axle. Supporting the wheel an upright position in proximity to the axle with a lever mechanism may include positioning the wheel in an upright position in proximity to the axle, aligning at least a first lever and a second lever of the lever mechanism around the wheel along the ground, and supporting the wheel in an upright position with an end of the first lever and an end of the second lever. Propelling the lever mechanism to stably hold and reposition the wheel with respect to the axle may include propelling the end of the first lever toward the end of the second lever, such that the first lever and the second lever stably holds and lifts the wheel off the ground and into a desired position with respect to the axle, enabling the mounting of the wheel onto the axle. Propelling the lever mechanism to stably hold and reposition the wheel with respect to the axle may further include propelling the end of the first lever away from the end of the second lever, such that the first lever and the second lever stably holds and lowers the wheel away from the axle.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the technique is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove.

Claims

1. An apparatus for mounting or dismounting a wheel onto or from the axle of a vehicle, said apparatus comprising:

a lever mechanism operative for supporting said wheel in an upright position, in proximity to said axle; and

a force actuator coupled with said lever mechanism, said force actuator operative for propelling said lever mechanism to stably hold and reposition said wheel with respect to said axle, to enable the mounting of said wheel onto said axle or the dismounting of said wheel from said axle.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:

a frame portion resting on the ground;

wherein said lever mechanism comprises a plurality of levers comprising at least a first lever and a second lever, wherein a first end of said first lever is pivotally coupled with one side of said frame portion, wherein a first end of said second lever is pivotally coupled with the other side of said frame portion, wherein a second end of said first lever and a second end of said second lever are operative for supporting said wheel in an upright position; and

wherein said force actuator is coupled with said first lever and with said second lever, said force actuator propelling said second end of said first lever toward said second end of said second lever, such that said lever mechanism stably holds and lifts said wheel into a desired position with respect to said axle.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said force actuator further propels said second end of said first lever away from said second end of said second lever, such that said lever mechanism stably holds and lowers said wheel away from said axle.

4. The apparatus according to claims 2 and 3, wherein said first lever and said second lever follow an arc trajectory when moving toward or away from each other.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said lever mechanism comprises at least one roller, in contact with and securely supporting said wheel, said roller permitting rotation of said wheel thereon.

6. The apparatus according to claims 2 and 5, wherein a first roller of said at least one roller is disposed on said second end of said first lever, and wherein a second roller of said at least one roller is disposed on said second end of said second lever.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said first roller is substantially aligned with said second roller while securely supporting said wheel.

8. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein said at least one roller comprises a narrow inner portion between thicker outer portions, for providing stable and secure support of said wheel.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a locomotive mechanism coupled with said frame portion, operable for moving said apparatus forward, backward or laterally with respect to said axle.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a traction tread, onto which said apparatus is positioned to provide a stable surface for the displacement of said apparatus via said locomotive mechanism.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said force actuator comprising at least one mechanism selected from the list consisting of:

a manual operating mechanism;

a handle;

a knob; a rotation imparting tool;

an automated operating mechanism;

a motor;

an electrical operating mechanism;

a pneumatic operating mechanism;

a hydraulic operating mechanism;

a single-direction screw-thread mechanism

an opposite direction screw-thread mechanism;

a ratchet drive mechanism;

a gear mechanism;

a piston;

a hydraulic pump; and

a pulley mechanism.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said force actuator is coupled with said lever mechanism via a pulley mechanism.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein said pulley mechanism comprises at least one element selected from the list consisting of: a chain;

a cable;

a wire;

a rope; and a pulley wheel.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said apparatus is collapsible to a smaller size.

15. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said apparatus is adjustable to accommodate different sizes of said wheel.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein said apparatus is adjustable by means selected from the list consisting of:

extending or retracting said frame portion;

extending or retracting at least one lever of said lever mechanism;

coupling at least one bracket between said lever mechanism and said frame portion at a selective position; and

extending or retracting said bracket.

17. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said vehicle is selected from the list consisting of:

an automobile;

a motorcycle;

a van;

a truck; a bus;

a four-wheel drive (4x4) vehicle;

a jeep;

a sport utility vehicles (SUV); and

an off-road vehicle.

18. The apparatus according to claim 1 , comprising at least one material selected from the list consisting of:

metal;

iron;

steel;

aluminum;

magnesium;

titanium;

a metal alloy;

plastic; and

a composite material.

19. A method for mounting or dismounting a wheel onto or from the axle of a vehicle, the method comprising the procedures of:

supporting said wheel in an upright position in proximity to said axle with a lever mechanism; and propelling said lever mechanism to stably hold and reposition said wheel with respect to said axle, to enable the mounting of said wheel onto said axle or the dismounting of said wheel from said axle.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein said procedure of supporting said wheel comprises the sub-procedures of:

positioning said wheel in an upright position in proximity to said axle;

aligning at least a first lever and a second lever of said lever mechanism around said wheel along the ground; and

supporting said wheel in an upright position with an end of said first lever and an end of said second lever.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein said procedure of propelling said lever mechanism comprises the sub-procedures of:

propelling said end of said first lever toward said end of said second lever, such that said lever mechanism stably holds and lifts said wheel off said ground and into a desired position with respect to said axle, enabling the mounting of said wheel onto said axle.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein said procedure of propelling said lever mechanism comprises the sub-procedures of: propelling said end of said first lever away from said end of said second lever, such that said lever mechanism stably holds and lowers said wheel away from said axle.

23. The method according to claim 19, further comprising the procedure of rotating said wheel into a desired rotational position for mounting onto said axle, while said wheel is lifted.

24. The method according to claim 19, further comprising the procedure of moving said apparatus forward, backward or laterally with respect to said axle, by moving a frame portion supporting said lever mechanism in the desired direction.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising the procedure of positioning said apparatus onto a traction tread, to provide a stable surface for the displacement of said apparatus with respect to said axle.

26. The method according to claim 19, further comprising the procedure of adjusting said apparatus to accommodate different sizes of said wheel.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein said procedure of adjusting said apparatus comprises at least one sub-procedure selected from the list consisting of:

extending or retracting a frame portion coupled with said lever mechanism;

extending or retracting at least one lever of said lever mechanism;

coupling at least one bracket between said lever mechanism and said frame portion at a selective position; and

extending or retracting said bracket.