BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to tire inflation systems and more particularly to a wheel hub assembly utilized in a tire inflation system.

Tire inflation systems for vehicles provide a vehicle the versatility of adjusting tire pressures while the vehicle is stationary or in motion. For example, the tire pressure of one or more wheel assemblies in fluid communication with a tire inflation system may be decreased to increase tire traction, or increased to reduce rolling resistance and increase the vehicle's fuel efficiency and tire life-span. Furthermore, tire inflation systems increase a vehicle's maneuverability over differing terrains, and increase a vehicle's mobility through varying environmental conditions. Additionally, tire inflation systems reduce maintenance requirements.

Tire inflation systems communicate pressurized fluid to a wheel assembly. Conventional tire inflation systems are limited by their package size. In view of the above, there remains a need for a tire inflation system operable in a decreased package size.

SUMMARY

The presently disclosed subject matter describes a wheel hub assembly having a non-rotating outer bearing flange and an inner bearing flange disposed at least partially concentrically within the outer bearing flange. The wheel hub assembly also includes at least one rolling element disposed radially between the outer bearing flange and the inner bearing flange. A port is disposed in the outer bearing flange, and a first conduit is disposed through the outer bearing flange in fluid communication with the fluid port. A second conduit is disposed through the inner bearing flange, wherein the second conduit is in fluid communication with the first conduit. Further, a rotating spindle is disposed at least partially through the inner bearing flange, and the spindle is coupled for rotation with the inner bearing flange.

