vehicle tires

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle tire with a tread having oblique grooves (2), short grooves (3) running between successive oblique grooves (2) 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2 ), at least one row of profile blocks (5', 6') located within the ground contact area, with first and second profile blocks (5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G ), whereby every first and every second profile block (5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G ) is provided with transverse incisions (9), wherein the incisions (9) - in each case with respect to the circumferential direction - in each first profile block (5 K , 6 K ) run in the same direction inclined to the block edges (5b, 6b) and in every second profile block (5 G , 6 G ) run in opposite directions to the block edges (5b, 6b). The short grooves (3 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2) are spaced from the tire equatorial plane (line AA) in such a way that the first tread blocks (5 K , 6 K ) a first length projected in the axial direction (C 5K , c 6K ) and the second profile blocks (5 G , 6 G ) one compared to the first length (C 5K , c 6K ) larger, projected in the axial direction second length (C 5G , C 6G ).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a vehicle tire with a tread having circumferentially successive oblique grooves which are inclined in the same direction relative to one another, each of which is designed to the tread depth and runs at least over the majority of its extent in the same tread half, and short grooves running between successive oblique grooves, wherein the oblique grooves and the short grooves provide the tread with at least one row of tread blocks located completely within the ground contact area, with first and second tread blocks separated from one another by the oblique grooves and with block edges on the oblique grooves, wherein each first and each second tread block is provided with transverse incisions which, in plan view, run in particular parallel to one another, having a width of 0.40 mm to 2.00 mm and a maximum depth of 40% to 100% of the tread depth,wherein the cuts - each with respect to the circumferential direction - run in the same direction inclined to the block edges in each first profile block and in the opposite direction inclined to the block edges in each second profile block.

[0002] Such a vehicle tire is known, for example, from EP 3 045 326 A1. This vehicle tire has a tread with a semi-central row of tread blocks with first and second tread blocks separated from one another by oblique grooves. Short grooves run between the oblique grooves, inclined in the circumferential direction in the same direction as the oblique grooves, and together with the oblique grooves delimit the first and second tread blocks. The first and second tread blocks are each provided with transverse cuts running parallel to one another in plan view, with a width of 0.40 mm to 0.60 mm, wherein the cuts in each first tread block run parallel to the block edges and are therefore inclined in the same direction to them in the circumferential direction, and wherein the cuts in each second tread block run at an angle of 50° to 70° to the oblique grooves and are inclined in the opposite direction to the block edges.The vehicle tire exhibits good handling characteristics on snow under loads acting in different directions, especially when cornering.

[0003] Due to the differently inclined cuts in the circumferential direction, the probability is increased that the different bending behavior of the profile blocks, or more precisely their block segments, associated with the cuts will cause uneven wear.

[0004] The invention is therefore based on the object of noticeably reducing the risk of an uneven wear pattern occurring in a vehicle tire of the type mentioned at the beginning.

[0005] The stated object is achieved according to the invention in that the short grooves are spaced from the tire equatorial plane in such a way that within the or each tread block row, the first tread blocks, in which the cuts run in the same direction inclined to the block edges, have a first length projected in the axial direction and the second tread blocks, in which the cuts run in the opposite direction inclined to the block edges, have a second length projected in the axial direction which is larger than the first length.

[0006] According to the invention, the block length is matched to the relative inclination of the sipes to the block edges. In "longer" tread blocks, the sipes run in the opposite direction to the block edges, while in "shorter" tread blocks, the sipes run in the same direction to the block edges. This ensures that the circumferential stiffness of the tread blocks, which are segmented in various ways by the sipes, is equalized within the tread block row, significantly smoothing the wear pattern of the tread block row compared to conventional tires.

[0007] According to a preferred embodiment, the second length of the second tread blocks is 102% to 140%, in particular up to 130%, preferably up to 125%, of an arithmetically averaged first length, which results from the first lengths of those first tread blocks that are closest to the respective second tread block in one circumferential direction and in the other circumferential direction. This further contributes to uniforming the wear pattern.

[0008] Preferably, within the or each row of tread blocks, one of the first tread blocks alternates with one of the second tread blocks in the circumferential direction. This allows the bending behavior of the tread blocks to be further aligned across the circumferential extent of the row of tread blocks, ensuring a particularly uniform wear pattern.

[0009] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first and second tread blocks are each divided by the incisions into block segments, each with a maximum segment width, wherein the incisions within each first and second tread block run parallel to one another in plan view, and the average maximum segment width of the middle block segments of each first tread block is 70% to 130%, in particular 75% to 120%, preferably 80% to 110%, particularly preferably 84% to 102%, of the average maximum segment width of the middle block segments of each second tread block. Such a uniform distribution of the incisions across the tread blocks of the tread block row contributes to further homogenizing the wear pattern.

[0010] In this context, it is furthermore advantageous if, in the latter preferred embodiment, the maximum segment widths of the middle block segments within each first profile block and within each second profile block are the same or vary within an interval of 0.5 mm, in particular of 0.2 mm.

[0011] Furthermore, it is advantageous in this context if, in the last-mentioned preferred embodiment, the maximum segment widths of the middle block segments are each 4.0 mm to 7.0 mm, wherein preferably edge-side block segments are provided whose maximum segment widths are also each 4.0 mm to 7.0 mm.

[0012] According to a further preferred embodiment, the incisions in the second tread blocks, viewed in plan view, extend at an angle of 2° to 18°, in particular 4° to 16°, preferably 6° to 14°, and particularly preferably 8° to 12°, to the axial direction. Such angled incisions provide block segments with even more uniform abrasion behavior, especially under forces acting in the circumferential direction, such as those that predominantly occur when driving straight ahead.

[0013] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the incisions in the first profile blocks, viewed in plan view, run parallel to the block edges. This allows the stiffnesses of the block segments within the first profile blocks to be particularly well matched to one another.

[0014] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the tread block rows include a central tread block row and a semi-central tread block row, and if two short grooves each run between the successive oblique grooves, each of which separates one of the tread blocks of the central tread block row from one of the tread blocks of the semi-central tread block row, with one of the two tread blocks separated by a short groove being one of the first tread blocks and the other being one of the second tread blocks. This measure extends the concept of "longer" and "shorter" tread blocks to another tread block row in a way that is particularly beneficial for uniform tread block row wear.

[0015] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the first and second tread blocks are each provided in the area(s) between the incisions with at least one, preferably more precisely one, microgroove, which runs particularly parallel to the incisions in plan view, with a width and depth of 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm each. The microgrooves are advantageous for snow grip on new or slightly worn tires.

[0016] Furthermore, it is provided in particular that the short grooves each have a width of 2.5 mm to 7.0 mm, in particular of up to 6.0 mm, and a maximum depth of 35% to 100%, in particular of up to 90%, preferably of up to 70%, of the tread depth.

[0017] The tread is designed in particular to be directional, with the diagonal grooves being V-shaped diagonal grooves running across the tread width.

[0018] A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the short grooves, which delimit immediately consecutive profile blocks in the circumferential direction within the or one of the profile block row(s), are formed in pairs so that, viewed in plan view, they run in alignment with one another in such a way that, for short grooves belonging to a pair, the groove center lines extended beyond the short grooves run through the other short groove of the pair.

[0019] In the latter preferred embodiment, it is advantageous if the tread is composed of circumferentially successive pitches, each with a single circumferential length. The pitches include pitches with at least two different circumferential lengths. Circumferentially successive pitches with matching circumferential lengths are provided, in which the circumferentially successive tread blocks are delimited by pairs of short grooves. This contributes to further equalizing the wear of the tread blocks.

[0020] Furthermore, it is preferred if the short grooves, viewed in plan view, run in the circumferential direction or in the same direction as the oblique grooves with respect to the circumferential direction.

[0021] Further features, advantages and details of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the drawing, which schematically shows an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 1 a simplified plan view of a circumferential section of a tread of a vehicle tire with an embodiment variant of the invention, developed into the plane, Fig. 2 an enlarged plan view of detail Z 2 the Fig. 1, Fig. 3 a section along the line III-III of the Fig. 2, Fig. 4 a section along the line IV-IV of the Fig. 2 and Fig. 5 a section along the line VV of the Fig. 2.

[0022] Vehicle tires designed according to the invention are tires for motor vehicles, in particular for multi-track motor vehicles, preferably for passenger cars (PCs), vans (transporters) or SUVs, and preferably pneumatic vehicle tires, particularly preferably pneumatic vehicle tires of radial design for rims with an integer rim diameter of 13 inches to 24 inches, in particular of 15 inches to 23 inches, wherein the tires are intended for driving under winter driving conditions.

[0023] Fig. Figure 1 shows a plan view of a vehicle tire tread. The tire equatorial plane is indicated by a line AA, and the lateral edges of the tread's ground contact patch are indicated by two lines L. The ground contact patch corresponds to the statically determined footprint (determined with a tire mounted on a standard rim, loaded at 70% of the maximum load capacity, internal pressure at 85% of the standard pressure, according to ETRTO standards) and has a width B in the axial direction.

[0024] The tread is noise-optimised according to a method of pitch length variation and is composed of circumferentially successive pitches (similarly designed profile sections), whereby in the embodiment shown in the circumferential section pitch S 1 , S 2 each with a circumferential length cs and pitches L 1 , L 2 each with a circumference length c Lwhich is greater than the circumferential length cs. The tread has a directional tread pattern and is to be mounted on a vehicle in such a way that it has the rolling direction indicated by the arrow R when driving forward. When the tire rolls when driving forward, the treads S 1 , S 2 , L 1 , L 2 the ground contact area in the order S 1 - S 2 -L 1 -L 2 .

[0025] The tread is provided with a central circumferential groove 1 running in the area of ​​the tire equatorial plane (line AA) and with oblique grooves 2 running in a V-shape relative to one another in plan view across the tread width, wherein the rolling direction of the tire when driving forward (arrow R) is such that the oblique grooves 2 first enter the ground contact area with their ends on the inside of the tread.

[0026] The oblique grooves 2 form the main (drainage) grooves of the tread and are radially aligned to the respective intended profile depth T P ( Fig. 3) from usually 6.5 mm to 10.0 mm.

[0027] The central circumferential groove 1 runs, viewed in plan view, in a zigzag shape, has a groove center line m following its course in the middle UR (shown in sections), furthermore has a groove perpendicular to the groove center line m on the tread periphery UR determined, in particular constant width B UR (cf. Fig. 4) from 2.0 mm to 5.5 mm, in particular of at least 2.5 mm, and a maximum depth T determined in the radial direction UR ( Fig. 4, depth at the deepest point) from 70% to 100% of the tread depth T P ( Fig. 3), in particular of a maximum of 1.5 mm reduced profile depth T P ( Fig. 3). The central circumferential groove 1 is composed, viewed in plan view, of groove sections 1a passing through the tire equatorial plane (line AA), which are straight and, relative to the groove center line m UR to the circumferential direction at an angle α of 10° to 55°, in particular of 15° to 45°, with immediately successive groove sections 1a - corresponding to the zigzag shape - being inclined in opposite directions to one another with respect to the circumferential direction. At the mutual connecting area of ​​the groove sections 1a, the central circumferential groove 1 has a groove bend with an outer bend side 1' and an inner bend side 1".

[0028] The oblique grooves 2 run, viewed in plan view, parallel to each other in each tread half, open into the central circumferential groove 1 at the outer bend sides 1', so that the oblique grooves 2 running in one tread half are offset in the circumferential direction from the oblique grooves 2 running in the other tread half, each have, viewed in plan view, a groove center line m that follows their course centrally. SR and one at the tread periphery and perpendicular to the groove centerline m SR determined width B SR ( Fig. 3, compare position of line III-III in Fig. 2) from 2.5 mm to 9.0 mm, and furthermore run - based on a the ends of the respective groove center line m SR connecting straight auxiliary line h 1 - to the circumferential direction at an angle β of 60° to 80°. The width B SRincreases continuously towards the outside of the tread in the example. "Perpendicular to the groove center line m SR" means in the case of a curved oblique groove 2 perpendicular to a locally at the respective point of the groove center line m SR applied tangent. Each oblique groove 2, also viewed in plan view, consists of a straight groove section 2a on the inside of the tread and a slightly curved groove section 2b on the outside of the tread, which is inclined more strongly to the circumferential direction than the groove section 2a on the inside of the tread. The groove section 2a on the inside of the tread has a groove center line m SR relative length c projected in the axial direction a of 20% to 40%, in particular of 25% to 30%, of the width B of the ground contact area. A groove center line m between the corresponding groove center line SR and the groove center line m URthe central circumferential groove 1 determined intersection point S ( Fig. 2) has a distance as determined in the axial direction ( Fig. 2) of at least 1.0 mm from the tire equatorial plane (line AA).

[0029] In each tread half, between circumferentially adjacent oblique grooves 2, there is a short groove 3 on the inside of the tread, which is closer to the tire equatorial plane (line AA). 1 (Pitch S 1 , L 1 ) or 3 2 (Pitch S 2 , L 2 ) and a short groove 4 on the outside of the tread, closer to the lateral edge of the ground contact patch (line L) 1 (Pitch S 1 , L 1 ) or 4 2 (Pitch S 2 , L 2 ), with a short groove 3 alternating in the circumferential direction 1 , 4 1 on a short groove 3 2 , 4 2 follows.

[0030] The following explanations about the short grooves 3 1, 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2 Unless otherwise stated, all views are from above. Fig. 2 have the short grooves 3 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2 each with a groove center line following its course centrally m R (only with short groove 3 1 shown), one on the tread periphery perpendicular to the groove center line m R determined, in particular constant width b R ( Fig. 5: Shown for short groove 4 1 ) from 2.5 mm to 7.0 mm, in particular up to 6.0 mm, and in the radial direction a maximum depth t R ( Fig. 5: Shown for short groove 4 1 ) of 35% to 100%, in particular up to 90%, and preferably up to 70% of the tread depth T P ( Fig. 3), whereby the short grooves 3 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2 - relative to the groove center lines m R- run straight and at an angle γ of 5° to 20°, in particular of up to 15°, preferably of up to 12°, to the circumferential direction, are inclined in the same direction as the oblique grooves 2 with respect to the circumferential direction and - each with respect to a groove center line m R lying point P - to the tire equatorial plane (line AA) in the axial direction a distance a 31 (Short groove 3 1 ), a 32 (Short groove 3 2 ), a 41 (Short groove 4 1 ), a 42 (Short groove 4 2 ). The distance a 32 is greater than the distance a 31 , where between the distances a 31 , a 32 a difference Δa 3 The distance a 42 is greater than the distance a 41 , where between the distances a 41 , a 42 a difference Δa 4 which is smaller than the difference Δa 3Alternatively, the distances a 41 , a 42 match, so that the difference Δa 4 0, so no difference Δa 4 The differences Δa 3 , Δa 4 are each adjusted to the angle γ in such a way that the two short grooves 3 1 , 3 2 and the two short grooves 4 1 , 4 2 , which are within consecutive pitches S 1 , S 2 , L 1 , L 2 the same circumferential length cs or c L are located (cf. Fig. 1), are formed in pairs, so that the two short grooves 3 1 , 3 2 or the two short grooves 4 1 , 4 2 , viewed from above, are aligned with each other in such a way that the short grooves 3 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2 , extended groove center lines m R through the other short groove 3 1 , 32 , 4 1 , 4 2 of the pair. In the example shown, from the groove base (not numbered) which is flat U-shaped in cross section, each short groove 3 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2 a radially extending incision 12 (cf. Fig. 5) which has a width of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm and extends in the radial direction up to the level of the profile depth T P ( Fig. 3) is sufficient.

[0031] How Fig. 1 further shows, the described profiling divides the tread into two central tread block rows 5', two semi-central tread block rows 6' and two shoulder-side tread block rows 7'. Each pitch S 1 , S 2 , L 1 , L 2comprises a profile section which runs in a V-shape across the tread width and is delimited by a total of four oblique grooves 2 - two oblique grooves 2 which run consecutively in the circumferential direction and run in one half of the tread and two oblique grooves 2 which run consecutively in the circumferential direction and run in the other half of the tread.

[0032] The shoulder-side profile block rows 7' have shoulder-side profile blocks 7 separated in the circumferential direction by the oblique grooves 2, which are separated on the inside of the tread by the respective short groove 4 on the outside of the tread 1 or 4 2 are limited. The shoulder-side profile blocks 7 are shown in simplified form and can be provided with incisions and / or microgrooves in a manner known per se.

[0033] The central profile block rows 5' each have central profile blocks 5 separated by the oblique grooves 2 in the circumferential direction and formed along the central circumferential groove 1 K , 5 G and the semi-central profile block rows 6' each have semi-central profile blocks 6 separated in the circumferential direction by the oblique grooves 2 K , 6 G on.

[0034] How Fig. 2 shows, the central profile blocks 5 K each from a smaller distance a 31 to the tire equatorial plane (line AA) having short groove 3 1 and the central profile blocks 5 G each from a the greater distance a 32 to the tire equatorial plane (line AA) having short groove 3 2 limited so that in the circumferential direction a central profile block 5 K on a central profile block 5 G follows. The semi-central profile blocks 6 Gare each paired with one of the central profile blocks 5 K formed, whereby the profile blocks belonging to the same pair 6 G , 5 K through the respective short groove 3 1 separated from each other. The semi-central profile blocks 6 K are each paired with one of the central profile blocks 5 G formed, whereby the profile blocks belonging to the same pair 6 K , 5 G through the respective short groove 3 2 are separated from each other. In the circumferential direction, therefore, a semi-central profile block 6 follows alternately K on a semi-central profile block 6 G .

[0035] The profile blocks 5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G each have an outer block surface 5a located in the tread periphery (central profile blocks 5 K , 5 G ), 6a (semi-central profile blocks 6 K , 6 G), block edges 5b (central profile blocks 5) formed along the adjacent oblique grooves 2, which also delimit the block outer surface 5a, 6a and therefore run in the tread periphery. K , 5 G ), 6b (semi-central profile blocks 6 K , 6 G ) and a maximum block width b determined in plan view perpendicular to and between the block edges 5b, 6b B (Width at the widest point, only for profile block 5 K shown). The central profile blocks 5 K , 5 G also each have a short groove 3 on the inside of the tread 1 , 3 2 lying block edge 5c and two adjacent block edges 5d lying on the central circumferential groove 1. The semi-central profile blocks 6 K , 6 G also have on the short grooves 3 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2lying block edges 6c. The block edges 5b, 5c, 5d, 6b, 6c are each straight when viewed from above.

[0036] The central profile blocks 5 K , 5 G have an acute-angled block corner area in plan view on the one adjacent oblique groove 2 and the semi-central profile blocks 6 K , 6 G have two diagonally opposite, acute-angled block corner areas on the adjacent oblique grooves 2, wherein the acute-angled block corner areas are each chamfered with a triangular corner chamfer 8 with a chamfer edge 8a on the block outer surface 5a, 6a. The profile blocks 5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G furthermore have - determined at the level of their block outer surface 5a, 6a - a length c projected in the axial direction 5K (central profile block 5 K ), c 5G (central profile block 5 G ), c 6K(semi-central profile block 6 K ), c 6G (semi-central profile block 6 G ), whereby the corner chamfer(s) 8 are taken into account when determining the lengths c 5K , c 5G , c 6K , c 6G are included, so that the lengths c 5K , c 5G , c 6K , c 6G including the corner chamfers 8 projected in the radial direction into the level of the block outer surface 5a, 6a.

[0037] Due to the distances a 31 , a 32 , a 41 , a 42 the short grooves 3 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2 and the differences Δa 3 , Δa 4 is the length c 5G of the central profile block 5 G greater than the length c 5K of the central profile block 5 K and the length c 6G of the semi-central profile block 6 G is greater than the length c 6K of the semi-central profile block 6 K. The profile blocks 5 G , 6 G are also referred to below as longer (semi)central profile blocks 5 G , 6 G and the profile blocks 5 K , 6 K are also referred to below as shorter (semi)central profile blocks 5 K , 6 K designated.

[0038] The length c 5G a longer central profile block 5 G is 102% to 140%, in particular up to 130%, preferably up to 125%, of the arithmetically averaged length, which is calculated from the two lengths c 5K the two shorter, central profile blocks 5 adjacent in the circumferential direction K The length c 6G a longer, semi-central tread block 6 G is 102% to 140%, in particular up to 130%, preferably up to 125%, of the arithmetically averaged length, which is calculated from the two lengths c 6K the two shorter, semi-central profile blocks 6 adjacent in the circumferential direction Kis determined.

[0039] The central profile blocks 5 K , 5 G and the semi-central profile blocks 6 K , 6 G are each provided with traversing incisions 9, which have a constant width of 0.40 mm to 2.00 mm, in particular of 0.50 mm to 1.60 mm, preferably of up to 0.80 mm, and in the radial direction a maximum depth (depth at the deepest point) of 40% to 100%, in particular of 50% to 90%, of the profile depth T P ( Fig. 3) and the profile blocks 5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G in block segments 10 K (shorter (semi)central profile blocks 5 K , 6 K ), 10 G (longer (semi)central profile blocks 5 G , 6 G , only for profile block 6 Greferred to), whereby the incisions 9 in the embodiment, viewed in plan view, run in sections harmoniously wave-shaped and whereby the edge-side incisions 9 closest to the corner bevel 8 in the central profile block 5 G flat V-shaped. To the block segments 10 K , 10 G include middle block segments 10 located between two incisions 9 K , 10 G and block segments 10 adjacent to a single cut 9 K , 10 G . The incisions 9 each have a center line m which is straight in plan view and runs along the outer surface 5a, 6a of the block and is aligned in its main direction of extension. E , whereby the cuts 9 within each (semi)central profile block 5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G , viewed in plan view and with respect to the cutting center lines m E, parallel to each other. In the sectionally wavy incisions 9, the incision center line m E with the shaft centerline. The shaft centerline is the line relative to which the amplitude of the wave is determined. In the case of the shallow V-shaped, edge-side incisions 9, the incision centerline bisects m E a maximum deflection A determined perpendicular to it. The maximum deflection A is perpendicular between two straight lines and parallel to the cutting center lines m E running auxiliary lines h 2 (only one is designated) is determined, where the auxiliary lines h 2 - taking into account their parallel alignment to the cutting center lines m E - through the furthest apart points of a center line m on the outer surface 5a of the block, which follows the course of the incision in plan view EV get lost.

[0040] The longer (semi)central tread blocks 5 G , 6 G formed incisions 9, viewed in plan view and related to the incision center lines m E , parallel to each other, inclined in the circumferential direction in opposite directions to the block edges 5b and 6b, respectively, and to the axial direction at an angle δ of 2° to 18°, in particular of 4° to 16°, preferably of 6° to 14°, particularly preferably of 8° to 12°. The block segments 10 G each have a level of the block outer surface 5a, 6a, on the cutting center line(s) m E relative maximum segment width b GS (width at the widest point), whereby the number of incisions 9 is chosen such that the maximum segment width b GS 4.0 mm to 7.0 mm. For edge-side block segments 10 G refers to the maximum segment width b GS- depending on the design - on the respective block edge 5b, 5c, 5d, 6b, 6c or the chamfer edge 8a. The incisions 9 are within each profile block 5 G , 6 G furthermore, evenly distributed in such a way that at least the maximum segment widths b GS the middle block segments 10 G (Block segments 10 G between two cuts 9) within the same profile block 5 G , 6 G match or vary within an interval of 0.5 mm, especially 0.2 mm. Within each profile block 5 G , 6 G the middle block segments have 10 G furthermore has an arithmetically averaged maximum segment width, which is calculated from the corresponding maximum segment widths b GS is calculated.

[0041] The shorter (semi)central tread blocks 5 K , 6 Kformed incisions 9, viewed in plan view and related to the incision center lines m E , parallel to the block edges 5b and 6b respectively. The incisions 9 in the shorter (semi-)central profile blocks 5 K , 6 K run, viewed in plan view and related to the cutting center line m E , thus inclined in the opposite direction to the circumferential direction to the cuts 9 in the longer (semi)central profile blocks 5 G , 6 G . The block segments 10 K each have a level of the block outer surface 5a, 6a, on the cutting center line(s) m E relative maximum segment width b KS (width at the widest point), whereby the number of incisions 9 is chosen such that the maximum segment width b KS 4.0 mm to 7.0 mm and wherein the incisions 9 are so evenly distributed over the maximum block width b Bare distributed so that the maximum segment widths b KS within the same profile block 5 K , 6 K match or vary within an interval of 0.5 mm, especially 0.2 mm. For edge-side block segments 10 K refers to the maximum segment width b KS on the respective block edge 5b, 6b. How Fig. 1 shows, are located in the profile blocks 5 K , 6 K In the example, two notches 9 (pitch S 1 , S 2 ) or three notches 9 (pitch L 1 , L 2 ). Within each profile block 5 K , 6 K the middle block segments have 10 K (Block segments 10 K between two incisions 9) also has an arithmetically averaged maximum segment width, which is calculated from the corresponding maximum segment width b KSis calculated, where the arithmetically averaged maximum segment width of the middle block segments is 10 K 70% to 130%, in particular 75% to 120%, preferably 80% to 110%, particularly preferably 84% to 102%, of the aforementioned arithmetically averaged maximum segment width of the middle block segments 10 G the longer (semi)central tread blocks 5 G , 6 G amounts.

[0042] In the embodiment shown, the middle block segments 10 located between two incisions 9 are G the longer (semi)central tread blocks 5 G , 6 G each provided with a microgroove 11. Furthermore, the block segments 10 K the shorter (semi)central tread blocks 5 K , 6 K each provided with a microgroove 11. The microgrooves 11, viewed in plan view, run straight and parallel to the incision center lines m Eand have a width and depth of 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm each.

[0043] The invention is not limited to the described embodiment.

[0044] The microgrooves 11 are optional. The short grooves 3 1 , 3 2 , 4 1 , 4 2can, viewed in plan view, also run in the circumferential direction at an angle opposite to the oblique grooves 2 or in the circumferential direction. The tread has oblique grooves in at least one half of the tread and does not have to be designed in a directional manner. Between oblique grooves adjacent in the circumferential direction there is at least one short groove. The oblique grooves can, viewed in plan view, for example, also run straight or in sections or continuously curved (arched), whereby in the case of block edges that are curved as a result of the oblique grooves the maximum block widths are determined perpendicularly between tangents that run parallel to one another and are applied to the block edges. At least one row of tread blocks with corresponding incisions is provided.Within this row of profile blocks, consecutive profile blocks can be provided, with the cuts inclined in the same direction with respect to the circumferential direction. The corner chamfers on the profile blocks are optional. List of reference symbols 1 central circumferential groove 1a Groove section 1' outside bend 1 inside fold 2 oblique grooves 2a inside tread groove section 2b groove section on the outside of the tread 3 1 , 3 2 short groove on the inside of the tread 4 1 , 4 2 short groove on the outside of the tread 5 G , 5 K central profile block 5a Block outer surface 5b Block edge 5c, 5d block edge 5' central tread block row 6 G , 6 K semi-centered tread block 6a Block outer surface 6b Block edge 6c block edge 6' semi-center tread block row 7 shoulder-side profile block 7' shoulder-side tread block row 8 corner bevel 8a bevel edge 9 incision 10 K , 10 G block segment 11 microgroove 12 incision A maximum deflection AA line (tyre equatorial plane) a 31 , a 32 , a 41 , a 42 , a S Distance B, b R , B SR , B UR Width b B maximum block width b GS , b KS maximum segment width c a projected length c S , c L Circumference length c 5K , c 5G , c 6K , c 6G projected length h 1 , h 2 auxiliary line L line (lateral edge of the ground contact area) L 1 , L 2 Pitch m E Incision centerline m EV Centerline m R , m SR , m UR Groove centerline P point R arrow (rolling direction) S intersection point S 1 , S 2 Pitch T P Tread depth t R , T UR maximum depth Z 2 detail α, β, γ, δ angles Δa 3 , Δa 4 difference QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3 045 326 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Vehicle tyres with a tread with circumferentially successive oblique grooves (2) which are inclined in the same direction to one another and which are each provided with a tread depth (T P ) and extend at least over the majority of their extent in the same tread half, and short grooves (31, 32, 41, 42) extending between successive oblique grooves (2), wherein the oblique grooves (2) and the short grooves (31, 32, 41, 42) provide the tread with at least one row of tread blocks (5', 6') located completely within the ground contact area, with first and second tread blocks (5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G ) with block edges (5b, 6b) on the oblique grooves (2), whereby each first and each second profile block (5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G) with, in plan view, particularly parallel, traversing cuts (9) with a width of 0.40 mm to 2.00 mm and a maximum depth of 40% to 100% of the profile depth (T P ), wherein the incisions (9) - each with respect to the circumferential direction - in each first profile block (5 K , 6 K ) are inclined in the same direction to the block edges (5b, 6b) and in every second profile block (5 G , 6 G ) run in opposite directions to the block edges (5b, 6b), characterized by that the short grooves (31, 32, 41, 42) are spaced from the tire equatorial plane (line AA) in such a way that within the or each row of tread blocks (5', 6') the first tread blocks (5 K , 6 K ), in which the incisions (9) run in the same direction inclined to the block edges (5b, 6b), a first length projected in the axial direction (C 5K , c 6K ) and the second profile blocks (5 G , 6G ), in which the cuts (9) run in opposite directions to the block edges (5b, 6b), a length (C 5K , c 6K ) larger, projected in the axial direction second length (c 5G , c 6G ). [2] Vehicle tyre according to claim 1, characterized by that the second length (c 5G , c 6G ), which the second profile blocks (5 G , 6 G ) is 102% to 140%, in particular up to 130%, preferably up to 125%, of an arithmetically averaged first length, which is derived from the first lengths (C 5K , c 6K ) of those first tread blocks (5 K , 6 K ) which corresponds to the respective second profile block (5 G , 6 G ) in one circumferential direction and in the other circumferential direction. [3] Vehicle tyre according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat within the or each row of profile blocks (5', 6') in the circumferential direction one of the first profile blocks (5 K , 6 K ) alternately on one of the second profile blocks (5 G , 6 G ) follows. [4] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that the first and second profile blocks (5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G ) through the incisions (9) into block segments (10 K , 10 G ) each with a maximum segment width (b GS , b KS ), wherein the cuts (9) within each first and second profile block (5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G ) are parallel to each other in plan view and the average maximum segment width of the middle block segments (10 K )of each first profile block (5 K , 6 K) 70% to 130%, in particular 75% to 120%, preferably 80% to 110%, particularly preferably 84% to 102%, of the average maximum segment width of the middle block segments (10 G ) of every second tread block (5 G , 6 G ) amounts. [5] Vehicle tyre according to claim 4, characterized by that the maximum segment widths (b GS , b KS ) of the middle block segments (10 K , 10 G ) within each first tread block (5 G , 6 G ) and within every second tread block (5 K , 6 K ) or vary within an interval of 0.5 mm, in particular 0.2 mm. [6] Vehicle tyre according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by that the maximum segment widths (b GS , b KS ) of the middle block segments (10 K , 10 G ) each 4.0 mm to 7.0 mm, preferably edge-side block segments (10 k , 10 G) are provided, the maximum segment widths (b GS , b KS ) also range from 4.0 mm to 7.0 mm each. [7] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that the cuts (9) in the second profile blocks (5 G , 6 G ), viewed in plan view, extend at an angle (δ) of 2° to 18°, in particular of 4° to 16°, preferably of 6° to 14°, particularly preferably of 8° to 12°, to the axial direction. [8] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the cuts (9) in the first profile blocks (5 K , 6 K ), viewed in plan view, run parallel to the block edges (5b, 6b). [9] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized bythat the profile block rows (5', 6') include a central profile block row (5') and a semi-central profile block row (6') and between the successive oblique grooves (2) two of the short grooves (31, 32, 41, 42) run, of which one short groove (31, 32) each comprises one of the profile blocks (5 K , 5 G ) of the central profile block row (5') of one of the profile blocks (6 K , 6 G ) of the semi-central profile block row (6'), wherein of the two profile blocks (5 K , 6 G ; 5 G , 6 K ) one of the first profile blocks (5 K , 6 K ) and the other one of the second profile blocks (5 G , 6 G ) is. [10] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by that the first and second profile blocks (5 K , 5 G , 6 K , 6 G) in the area or areas between the incisions (9) is or are provided with at least one, preferably more precisely one, microgroove (11) running in plan view in particular parallel to the incisions (9) with a width and a depth of 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm each. [11] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by that the short grooves (31, 32, 41, 42) each have a width (b R ) from 2.5 mm to 7.0 mm, in particular up to 6.0 mm, and a maximum depth (t R ) of 35% to 100%, in particular up to 90%, preferably up to 70%, of the tread depth (T P ). [12] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by that the tread is designed to be directional, the oblique grooves (2) being V-shaped oblique grooves (2) running across the tread width. [13] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized bythat the short grooves (31, 32, 41, 42) which, within the or one of the profile block row(s) (5', 6'), immediately successive profile blocks (5 K , 6 G ; 5 G , 6 K ) are formed in pairs so that, viewed in plan view, they are aligned with one another in such a way that, in each pair of short grooves (31, 32; 41, 42), the groove center lines (m R ) runs through the other short groove (31, 32, 41, 42) of the pair. [14] Vehicle tyre according to claim 13, characterized by that the tread consists of circumferentially successive pitches (S1, S2, L1, L2) each with a circumferential length (c S , c L ), wherein the pitches (S1, S2, L1, L2) are joined by pitches (S1, S2, L1, L2) with at least two different circumferential lengths (cs, c L) and wherein circumferentially successive pitches (S1, S2, L1, L2) with matching circumferential lengths (c S , c L ) are provided, in which the circumferentially successive profile blocks (5 K , 6 G ; 5 G , 6 K ) are delimited by pairs of short grooves (31, 32, 41, 42). [15] Vehicle tyre according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by that the short grooves (31, 32, 41, 42), viewed in plan view, run in the circumferential direction or with respect to the circumferential direction in the same direction as the oblique grooves (2).

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