The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
May. 26, 2020
Filed:
Oct. 05, 2017
Ford Global Technologies, Llc, Dearborn, MI (US);
David Douglas Friske, Wolverine Lake, MI (US);
John Jeffrey Pfeiffer, Saline, MI (US);
Ford Global Technologies, LLC, Dearborn, MI (US);
Abstract
A method and system for improving the strength, functionality and wear-resistance of a composite hybrid wheel is disclosed. Each spoke may define an airfoil shape and have a secondary wing-like extension attached thereto to generate airflow past the vehicle brakes during vehicle operation. Alternatively, the spokes may be shaped in cross-section as either an I-beam or an H-beam configuration. Customer-interchangeable wheel inserts formed from a reinforced polymerized material, such as a long carbon fiber reinforced composite, are strategically attached to one or more of the spokes. The inserts are used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the wheel, increase its structural integrity and provide easy interchangeability in the event of damage. A faux bead composite lock ring also formed of a reinforced polymerized material such as a long carbon fiber reinforced composite can be attached to the wheel spokes to cover the composite rim flange.