Tire and method for manufacturing tire

Abstract

The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a tire that does not generate a large step difference even when an electronic component is implanted inside the tire, thereby eliminating uniformity degradation. The tire (1) comprises: a bead core (21), a bead outer rubber (22) extending to the tire radially outer side of the bead core (21), a carcass cord (23) extending from the bead core (21) to the other bead core (21) and folded back around the bead core (21), and an RFID tag (40) as an electronic component. The manufacturing method comprises: a covering step of covering the electronic component (40) with a covering rubber (43), a recessed portion forming step of forming a recessed portion (22D) in the bead outer rubber (22) having a shape corresponding to the shape of the covering rubber (43), and a placement step of placing the covering rubber (43) covering at least a portion of the electronic component (40) in the recessed portion (22D) of the bead outer rubber (22).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a tire implanted with electronic components and a method for manufacturing the tire. Background Art

[0002] In the past, tires with electronic components such as RFID embedded in rubber structures have been known, which can manage the manufacture and use history of tires by communicating with a reader as an external device through the RFID tag embedded in the tire.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-265750 Summary of the invention

[0006] On the other hand, when the RFID tag is implanted inside the tire, a step difference is generated due to the RFID tag, and thus the uniformity may be deteriorated.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a tire and a tire manufacturing process that can eliminate degradation of uniformity without causing a large step difference even when an electronic component is implanted inside a tire.

[0008] (1) A method for manufacturing a tire (e.g., tire 1, tire 2) of the present invention is a method for manufacturing a tire comprising: a bead core (e.g., bead core 21), a bead outer rubber extending outward in the tire radial direction of the bead core (e.g., bead outer rubber 22), a carcass ply (e.g., carcass ply 23) extending from the bead core toward the other bead core and folded back around the bead core, and an electronic component (e.g., an RFID tag 40), the method comprising: utilizing a covered A covering process of covering at least a portion of the electronic component with rubber (for example, the covering rubber 43, the protective component 430, the covering rubber sheets 431, 432, the annular rubber sheet 47), a recess forming process of forming a recess (for example, the recess 22D, the annular fitting recess 22E) in the tire bead outer guard having a shape corresponding to the shape of the covering rubber, and a configuration process of configuring the covering rubber covering at least a portion of the electronic component in the recess of the tire bead outer guard.

[0009] (2) In the tire manufacturing method of (1), the tire also includes: a rubber sheet (for example, rubber sheet 37) for covering the folded end (for example, folded end 25A) of the folded carcass cord, and the tire manufacturing method may also include: a step of covering the covering rubber arranged in the recessed portion of the tire bead outer guard rubber with the rubber sheet.

[0010] (3) In the tire manufacturing method of (1) or (2), the tire manufacturing method may further include, before the arranging step, a step of bending a recessed portion formed in the bead guard.

[0011] (4) In the tire manufacturing method of (1) or (2), the tire manufacturing method may further include, after the arranging step, a step of bending a recessed portion formed in the bead guard.

[0012] (5) The tire of the present invention comprises: a bead core, a bead outer guard extending radially outward of the bead core, a carcass ply extending from the bead core to the other bead core and folded back around the bead core, and an electronic component, the tire having: a covering rubber covering at least a portion of the electronic component, and a rubber sheet covering the folded back end of the folded back carcass ply, a recess being formed in the bead outer guard, the covering rubber covering at least a portion of the electronic component being arranged in the recess of the bead outer guard, and the covering rubber arranged in the recess of the bead outer guard being covered by the rubber sheet.

[0013] Effects of the Invention

[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a tire and a tire manufacturing process that can prevent a large step difference from occurring even when an electronic component is embedded in the tire and eliminate degradation of uniformity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a half cross section in the tire width direction of a tire according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the simulation results of the distribution of strain energy in a plane when a heavy load is applied to a tire.

[0018] Figure 4A It is a diagram showing an RFID tag covered with a coating rubber in a tire according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4B Yes means Figure 4A Diagram of the b-b section.

[0020] Figure 4C Yes means Figure 4A Diagram of the c-c section.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of the RFID tag in the tire according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Fig. 6A It is a diagram showing a manufacturing process of a bead filler of a tire according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 6B It is a diagram showing a manufacturing process of a bead filler of a tire according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 6C It is a diagram showing a manufacturing process of a bead filler of a tire according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing a state where an RFID tag and a rubber sheet are attached to a bead outer rubber in a tire according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Fig. 8A It is a diagram showing an RFID tag covered with a covering rubber in a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 8B Yes means Fig. 8A Diagram of the b-b section.

[0028] Figure 8C Yes means Fig. 8A Diagram of the c-c section.

[0029] Fig. 9 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of an RFID tag in a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Fig.10 This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of an RFID tag in a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Fig.11 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Fig.12 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Fig.13This is a diagram showing a cross section before an RFID tag in which a spring antenna is not filled with rubber is sandwiched between the covering rubber sheets.

[0034] Fig.14 This is a diagram showing a cross section after an RFID tag in which a spring antenna is not filled with rubber is sandwiched between covering rubber sheets.

[0035] Fig.15 This is a diagram showing a cross section after an RFID tag in which a spring antenna is not filled with rubber in advance is sandwiched between covering rubber sheets.

[0036] Fig.16 It is a diagram showing an RFID tag in a tire according to a third embodiment of the present invention before the spring antenna is filled with rubber.

[0037] Fig.17 This is a diagram showing an RFID tag in a tire according to a third embodiment of the present invention after a spring antenna is filled with rubber.

[0038] Fig.18 It is a diagram showing an RFID tag before being sandwiched by a covering rubber sheet in a tire according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Fig.19 It is a diagram showing an RFID tag sandwiched by a covering rubber sheet in a tire according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Fig. 20 It is a diagram showing a half cross section in the tire width direction of a tire according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig.21 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a tire according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Fig. 22 It is a diagram showing a rubber sheet integrally provided with an RFID tag of a tire according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig.23 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of an RFID tag in a tire according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Fig.24 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of the RFID tag in a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Fig.25 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of the RFID tag in a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] <First embodiment>

[0047] Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0048] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a half cross section of a tire 1 according to the present embodiment in the tire width direction. The basic structure of the tire is that the cross section in the tire width direction is bilaterally symmetrical, and the cross section shown here is a cross section of the right half. In the figure, symbol S1 is the tire equatorial plane. The tire equatorial plane S1 is a plane that is orthogonal to the tire rotation axis and is located at the center of the tire width direction.

[0049] Here, the tire width direction is the direction parallel to the tire rotation axis. Figure 1 The left-right direction of the paper in a cross-sectional view. Figure 1 In the figure, the tire width direction X is shown.

[0050] The inner side in the tire width direction refers to the direction approaching the tire equatorial plane S1. Figure 1 The outer side in the tire width direction refers to the direction away from the tire equatorial plane S1. Figure 1 The middle is the right side of the paper.

[0051] In addition, the tire radial direction is the direction perpendicular to the tire rotation axis. Figure 1 The up and down direction on paper. Figure 1 In the figure, the tire radial direction Y is shown.

[0052] The outer side in the tire radial direction refers to the direction away from the tire rotation axis. Figure 1 The inner side of the tire radial direction is the direction close to the tire rotation axis. Figure 1 The middle is the lower side of the paper.

[0053] Figure 2 , 5 The same is true for 9-12, 20-21, and 23-25.

[0054] The tire 1 is a tire for trucks or buses, for example, and includes a pair of bead portions 11 provided on both sides in the tire width direction, a tread portion 12 forming a contact surface with a road surface, and a pair of sidewall portions 13 extending between the pair of bead portions 11 and the tread portion 12 .

[0055] The bead portion 11 includes: a ring-shaped bead core 21 formed by winding a rubber-coated metal bead wire multiple times, and a bead outer rubber 22 with a tapered front end extending toward the outer side of the bead core 21 in the tire radial direction. The bead outer rubber 22 is composed of a first bead outer rubber 221 that covers the outer periphery of the bead core 21, and a second bead outer rubber 222 that is arranged on the outer side of the first bead outer rubber 221 in the tire radial direction. The second bead outer rubber 222 is composed of a rubber having a higher modulus than the inner liner 29 and the sidewall rubber 30 described later. Moreover, the first bead outer rubber 221 is composed of a rubber having a higher modulus than the second bead outer rubber 222. In addition, the first bead outer rubber 221 may be in a form that does not cover the outer periphery of the bead core 21 as long as at least a part of it is arranged on the outer side of the bead core 21 in the tire radial direction. In addition, the bead outer rubber 22 may also be formed of a single rubber. That is, it is not necessary to separate the bead outer rubber 221 and the second bead outer rubber 222 .

[0056] The bead core 21 is a member that can play the role of fixing the tire filled with air to a wheel rim (not shown). The bead outer rubber 22 is a member provided to increase the rigidity of the bead portion surrounding the bead portion and to ensure high maneuverability and stability.

[0057] The tire 1 has a carcass ply 23 that forms a tire skeleton. The carcass ply 23 extends from one bead core to the other bead core. That is, the carcass ply 23 is implanted between a pair of bead cores 21 in the tire 1 in a manner that passes through a pair of sidewalls 13 and a tread portion 12.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the carcass ply 23 extends from the bead core on one side toward the bead core on the other side, and includes: a ply main body 24 extending between the tread portion 12 and the bead portion 11, and a ply folded portion 25 folded around the bead core 21. Here, the folded end 25A of the ply folded portion 25 is located closer to the tire radial inner side than the tire radial outer side end 22A of the bead outer rubber 22.

[0059] The carcass ply 23 is composed of a plurality of carcass cords extending in the tire width direction. The plurality of carcass cords are arranged in a row in the tire circumferential direction.

[0060] The fabric cords are made of metal steel cords or insulating organic fiber cords such as polyester and polyamide, and are coated with rubber.

[0061] In the tread portion 12, a plurality of steel belt layers 26 are provided on the radially outer side of the carcass cord 23. The steel belt layer 26 is composed of a plurality of steel cords covered with rubber. By providing the steel belt layer 26, the rigidity of the tire can be ensured, so that the ground contact state between the tread portion 12 and the road surface is good. In the present embodiment, although four layers of steel belt layers 26 are provided, the number of stacked steel belt layers 26 is not limited thereto.

[0062] A tread rubber 28 is provided on the tire radially outer side of the steel belt layer 26. A tread pattern (not shown) is provided on the outer surface of the tread rubber 28, and the outer surface serves as a contact surface that comes into contact with the road surface.

[0063] A shoulder pad 38 is provided near the outer side of the tread portion 12 in the tire width direction and in the area between the carcass cord 23, the steel belt layer 26 and the tread rubber 28. The shoulder pad 38 extends to the outer side of the sidewall portion 13 in the tire radial direction, and an interface is formed between a portion of the shoulder pad 38 and the sidewall rubber 30 described later. That is, a portion of the shoulder pad 38 exists in the outer side of the sidewall portion 13 in the tire radial direction and on the inner side of the sidewall rubber 30 in the tire width direction.

[0064] The shoulder pad 38 is made of a rubber member having a cushioning property, and performs a cushioning function between the carcass ply 23 and the steel belt layer 26. In addition, since the shoulder pad 38 is made of a rubber having a low heat generation property, it can effectively suppress heat generation by extending to the sidewall portion 13.

[0065] An inner liner 29 is provided on the bead portion 11, the sidewall portion 13, the tread portion 12, and on the tire inner cavity side of the carcass ply 23 as a rubber layer constituting the inner wall surface of the tire 1. The inner liner 29 is made of air-permeable rubber and is used to prevent the air in the tire inner cavity from leaking to the outside.

[0066] The sidewall rubber 30 constituting the outer wall surface of the tire 1 is provided on the sidewall portion 13 and outside the carcass ply 23 in the tire width direction. The sidewall rubber 30 is the most curved part when the tire plays a cushioning role, and is usually made of soft rubber with fatigue resistance.

[0067] A chafer 31 as a reinforcing cord is provided on the tire radial inner side of the carcass cord 23 provided around the bead core 21 of the bead portion 11 so as to cover at least a portion of the carcass cord 23. The chafer 31 also extends outward in the tire width direction of the cord folded portion 25 of the carcass cord 23, and an end 31A of the chafer 31 is located at a position closer to the tire radial inner side than the folded end 25A of the carcass cord 23.

[0068] The chafer 31 is a metal reinforcement layer composed of metal steel cords and is covered with rubber.

[0069] A rim strip rubber 32 is provided on the inner side of the chafer 31 in the tire radial direction. The rim strip rubber 32 is arranged along the outer surface of the tire and connected to the sidewall rubber 30. The rim strip rubber 32 and the sidewall rubber 30 are rubber components constituting the outer surface of the tire.

[0070] Furthermore, a first liner 35 is provided on the tire radially outer side of the end portion 31A of the chafer 31 and on the tire width direction outer side of the folded portion 25 of the carcass ply 23 and the bead outer rubber 22. The first liner 35 is provided at least on the tire width direction outer side of the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23. The tire radially outer side of the first liner 35 is formed to be tapered toward the tire radially outer side.

[0071] In addition, the second liner 36 is provided so as to cover the outer side in the tire width direction of the first liner 35. More specifically, the second liner 36 is provided so as to cover the outer side in the tire width direction of a part of the chafer 31, the first liner 35, a part of the second bead outer rubber 222, and a part of the ply body 24 of the carcass ply 23.

[0072] The sidewall rubber 30 is arranged outside in the tire width direction in the tire radial direction outer side region of the second pad 36 , and the rim strip rubber 32 is arranged outside in the tire width direction in the tire radial direction inner side region of the second pad 36 .

[0073] In other words, the second liner 36 is provided between the first liner 35 and the like and the components constituting the outer surface of the tire (the rubber components constituting the outer surface in the tire width direction), namely, the rim rubber 32 and the sidewall rubber 30. That is, the second liner 36 is provided on the inner cavity side of the rim rubber 32 and the sidewall rubber 30, which are the rubber components constituting the outer surface in the tire width direction.

[0074] In addition, if Figure 1 As shown, the outer end 36A of the second pad 36 in the tire radial direction is preferably arranged in the tire sidewall portion 13 at a position closer to the tire radial direction than the part with the maximum width of the tire. Moreover, the outer end 36A of the second pad 36 in the tire radial direction is formed to be more tapered toward the outer side of the tire radial direction.

[0075] The first gasket 35 and the second gasket 36 constitute a gasket member 34 made of rubber having a modulus higher than that of the tire radial direction outer side portion (the second bead outer rubber 222) of the bead outer rubber 22.

[0076] In further detail, the second liner 36 is made of rubber having a higher modulus than the second bead outer rubber 222, and the first liner 35 is made of rubber having a higher modulus than the second liner 36. The first liner 35 and the second liner 36 have the function of relieving the sharp strain caused by the local rigidity change point at the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 and the end 31A of the bead chafer 31.

[0077] A rubber sheet 37 as a reinforcing rubber sheet is disposed between the bead filler 22 and the cushion member 34 and near the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23. The rubber sheet 37 is disposed so as to cover the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 from the inner side in the tire width direction.

[0078] The rubber sheet 37 is made of rubber having a modulus higher than that of the second bead outer rubber 222 . More preferably, the rubber sheet 37 is made of rubber having a modulus substantially equal to that of the first liner 35 .

[0079] Generally, stress concentration is likely to occur at the folded-back end 25A of the carcass ply 23. However, by providing the rubber sheet 37 as the reinforcing rubber sheet described above, stress concentration can be effectively suppressed.

[0080] In the present embodiment, the cushion member 34 is composed of the first cushion 35 and the second cushion 36, but the cushion member 34 may be composed of a single member. However, by composing the cushion member 34 with the first cushion 35 and the second cushion 36 as described above and further adopting the configuration of disposing the rubber sheet 37, stress concentration can be more effectively suppressed.

[0081] In addition, in the present embodiment, the position of the outer end 37A of the rubber sheet 37 in the radial direction of the tire is located at a position closer to the inner side of the tire radial direction than the outer end 22A of the tire radially of the tire bead outer rubber 22. However, the position of the outer end 37A of the rubber sheet 37 in the radial direction of the tire is also allowed to be substantially consistent with the position of the outer end 22A of the tire radially of the tire bead outer rubber 22.

[0082] In addition, the rubber sheet 37 is preferably: Figure 1 Although the configuration shown is such that the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 is covered from the inner side in the tire width direction, the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 may be covered from the outer side in the tire width direction. Even in this case, stress concentration can be alleviated.

[0083] In addition, considering the workability of the process of configuring the rubber sheet 37 and the ability to suppress the influence on the thickness around the bead portion 11, it is more preferable to use a rubber sheet 37. Figure 1 , 2The rubber sheet 37 having a substantially constant thickness as shown is used to cover the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 from either the inner side or the outer side in the tire width direction.

[0084] The tire 1 of the present embodiment has an RFID tag 40 embedded therein as an electronic component.

[0085] The RFID tag 40 is a passive transponder, which has an RFID chip and an antenna for communicating with an external device. The RFID tag 40 communicates wirelessly with a reader (not shown) as an external device. As the antenna, a coil-shaped spring antenna, a plate-shaped antenna, and various rod-shaped antennas can be used. For example, it can also be an antenna formed by printing a prescribed pattern on a flexible substrate. The antenna is set to an optimized antenna length according to the frequency band used, etc. The storage unit in the RFID chip stores identification information such as the manufacturing number and the part number.

[0086] Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the periphery of the implantation portion of the RFID tag 40 in the tire 1.

[0087] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown, a recess 22D is formed in the bead outer rubber 22, and the RFID tag 40 (including a state where at least a part is covered by the covering rubber 43 described later) is arranged in the recess 22D of the bead outer rubber 22. Moreover, the RFID tag 40 arranged in the recess 22D of the bead outer rubber 22 is covered by the rubber sheet 37.

[0088] In addition, if the modulus of the second liner 36 is used as a reference, the modulus of the sidewall rubber 30 is preferably 0.4 to 0.6 times the modulus of the second liner 36. In addition, the modulus of the first liner 35 is preferably 1.1 to 1.2 times the modulus of the second liner 36. In addition, the modulus of the second bead outer rubber 222 is preferably 0.7 to 0.8 times the modulus of the second liner. By setting such a modulus, the balance between the flexibility of the tire and the rigidity near the bead portion 11 can be ensured.

[0089] The modulus of the rubber sheet 37 is preferably 1.1 to 1.2 times that of the second liner 36. That is, the modulus of the rubber sheet 37 is preferably substantially equal to the modulus of the portion of the liner member 34 that covers at least the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 (the first liner 35).

[0090] Thus, the modulus of at least the portion (first cushion 35 ) of the cushion member 34 that covers the folded-back end 25A of the carcass ply 23 and the modulus of the rubber sheet 37 are both higher than the modulus of the surrounding rubber members.

[0091] In this way, by adopting a configuration in which the folded-back end 25A of the carcass ply 23 is sandwiched between rubber members having a relatively high modulus, it is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of stress concentration in this portion.

[0092] Furthermore, since the RFID tag 40 is disposed on the rubber sheet 37 which is a rubber member having a high modulus, even when the tire 1 is deformed, the deformation amount of the RFID tag 40 is small. Thus, the RFID tag 40 can be appropriately protected.

[0093] In addition, when the cushion member 34 is constituted by a single component, the modulus of the cushion member 34 is preferably set to be at least higher than the modulus of the sidewall rubber 30. The modulus of the cushion member 34 is further preferably set to be higher than the modulus of the sidewall rubber 30 and the second bead outer rubber 222. In addition, the modulus of the cushion member 34 can be set to be the same as the modulus of the rubber sheet 37, or lower than the modulus of the rubber sheet 37.

[0094] The modulus refers to the 100% elongation modulus (M100) in an atmosphere at 23° C. measured in accordance with “3.7 Stress at constant elongation, S” of JIS K6251:2010.

[0095] Here, generally, when the interface between two objects is a surface extending from the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23, strain is easily generated on the surface. However, in the present embodiment, since the rubber sheet 37 is arranged in a form covering the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23, the position closer to the outer side in the tire radial direction than the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 becomes a portion that is less susceptible to strain.

[0096] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the simulation results of the distribution of strain energy in a plane when a tire is assembled on a rim and a 100% load is applied.

[0097] In such Figure 3 In the enlarged cross-sectional view shown, the strain energy is divided into five regions. Here, the region with the highest strain energy is set to level 5, the region with relatively high strain energy is set to level 4, the region with slightly lower strain energy is set to level 3, the region with further lower strain energy is set to level 2, and the region with the lowest strain energy is set to level 1. Figure 3 In the figure, the regions are separated by thick dotted lines as boundaries.

[0098] The interface between the bead outer rubber 22 and the liner member 34 and its vicinity, which is closer to the tire radial outside than the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23, is approximately a level 2-3 area with less strain energy. Therefore, this area is a preferred area for arranging the RFID tag 40.

[0099] In addition, in this embodiment (refer to Figure 2 ), compared with the simulation model, the rubber sheet 37 extends further outward in the tire radial direction, but the basic structure of configuring the rubber sheet 37 for reinforcement is the same, so the strain energy around the rubber sheet 37 is Figure 3 Same, or smaller.

[0100] In addition, in Figure 1 to Figure 3 In the tire width direction cross-sectional view shown, when the distance from the tire radial outer end 22A of the bead outer rubber 22 to the return end 25A of the carcass cord 23 is set as the reference distance R, the RFID tag 40 is preferably arranged at: from the position of the tire radial outer end 22A of the bead outer rubber 22 to the position P that is 60% of the reference distance toward the return end 25A of the carcass cord 23 (refer to Figure 3 ) to the area Q (area Q).

[0101] The strain energy of the interface between the bead outer rubber 22 and the liner member 34 and its vicinity in the region Q is approximately level 2, which is a very ideal region for arranging the RFID tag 40. Therefore, it is preferred to extend the rubber sheet 37 to this region and arrange the RFID tag 40 in this region.

[0102] In addition, if it is within the area of ​​the range Q, it is in a position that is somewhat away from the metal bead core 21 that may have an adverse effect on communication. Here, the bead core 21 is a metal component that is formed into a ring shape by stacking and winding metal bead wires, so the possibility of adversely affecting communication is particularly high.

[0103] In addition, since the rubber sheet 37 is located at a certain distance from the outer surface of the tire 1, it is difficult to be affected by external damage. In addition, the outer side in the tire width direction is protected by the liner component 34 with a higher modulus, and from this point of view, it is also difficult to be affected by external damage.

[0104] Here, at least a portion of the RFID tag 40 is covered by the covering rubber 43. In the present embodiment, the entire covering rubber 43 is covered by two covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 constituting the covering rubber 43. Here, since the covering rubber 43 (covering rubber sheets 431 and 432) of the present embodiment covers the RFID tag 40 and also has the function of protecting the RFID tag 40, the covering rubber 43 is also referred to as a protective member 430 in the present embodiment.

[0105] Next, regarding the covering rubber 43 (protective member 430), refer to Figures 4A to 4C To explain.

[0106] Figure 4A 4 is a diagram showing an RFID tag 40 that is entirely covered by covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 that constitute a protective member 430. Figure 4A In the figure, the RFID tag 40 is covered by the covering rubber sheet 431 and is hidden. Figure 4B yes Figure 4A bb cross-section diagram, Figure 4C yes Figure 4A cc cross-sectional view.

[0107] The RFID tag 40 includes an RFID chip 41 and an antenna 42 for communicating with an external device. As the antenna 42, a coil-shaped spring antenna, a plate-shaped antenna, and various rod-shaped antennas can be used. In consideration of communication performance and flexibility, a coil-shaped spring antenna is most preferred.

[0108] The protection member 430 is composed of two coated rubber sheets 431 and 432 that sandwich the RFID tag 40 for protection.

[0109] As the rubber used for the protective member 430, a rubber having a modulus at least lower than that of the rubber sheet 37 is used. For example, the modulus of the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 constituting the protective member 43 is preferably 0.5 to 0.8 times the modulus of the rubber sheet 37. However, in order to have a certain degree of strength, it is preferred to use a rubber having a modulus higher than that of the sidewall rubber 30. It is further preferred to use a rubber having a modulus substantially the same as that of the second bead outer rubber 222. Alternatively, a rubber having a modulus lower than that of the second bead outer rubber 222 may be used in order to effectively absorb the deformation.

[0110] As described above, by arranging the RFID tag 40 near the rubber sheet 37 having a high modulus, even when the tire 1 is deformed, the deformation of the peripheral portion of the RFID tag 40 can be suppressed. In addition, by covering the RFID tag 40 with the protective component 430 having a low modulus, the protective component 430 can absorb the deformation, so that the deformation of the rubber sheet 37 is not directly transmitted to the RFID tag 40.

[0111] In addition, the protective member 430 may also be formed by mixing short fiber fillers with rubber. As the short fiber fillers, for example, short insulating fibers such as organic short fibers such as aramid short fibers or cellulose short fibers, short ceramic fibers such as alumina short fibers, or short glass fibers such as inorganic short fibers may be used. By mixing such short fiber fillers with rubber, the strength of the rubber can be increased.

[0112] In addition, a vulcanized coated rubber sheet may be used as the protective member 430. The vulcanized coated rubber sheet does not undergo plastic deformation like raw rubber, and thus can appropriately protect the RFID tag 40.

[0113] In addition, an organic fiber layer made of polyester fiber, polyamide fiber, etc. may be provided as the protection member 430. The organic fiber layer may be embedded in the two covering rubber sheets 431 and 432.

[0114] Figure 5 This is a partially enlarged view showing the RFID tag 40 covered by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 constituting the covering rubber 43 (protective member 430 ) in the tire 1 and its surroundings.

[0115] The covering rubber 43 is embedded in the recess 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222 in such a manner that one side of the covering rubber sheets 431, 432 contacts the bottom surface of the recess 22D of the bead outer rubber 22 (the second bead outer rubber 222 in this embodiment). In addition, one side of the covering rubber sheets 431, 432 is covered by the rubber sheet 37.

[0116] In this way, in the case where the covering rubber 43 is embedded in the recess 22D, the covering rubber 43 constitutes: an interlocking retaining component that sets the RFID tag 40 as an electronic component as an integral whole, and the recess 22D of the second tire bead outer rubber 222 constitutes: an interlocking recess that interlocks with the interlocking retaining component.

[0117] The fitting holding member and the fitting recess are formed in corresponding shapes, and air stagnation is less likely to occur when the two are fitted together.

[0118] Next, the manufacturing process of the tire 1 will be described.

[0119] Regarding the RFID tag 40 side, a covering step of covering the RFID tag 40 with the covering rubber 43 is performed.

[0120] Regarding the bead outer rubber 22 side, the second bead outer rubber 222 constituting the bead outer rubber 22 is first formed by, for example, extrusion. Fig. 6A As shown in FIG. 1 , a rubber component is formed into a straight long strip. Figure 6B As shown, a recess forming process is also performed on the linear rubber component, i.e., the second bead outer rubber 222, in which a recess 22D having a shape corresponding to the shape of the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 is formed. In the present embodiment, the recess 22D is a recess having a substantially rectangular shape with a predetermined depth. It is preferred that the process of forming the recess 22D is performed immediately after extrusion molding when the rubber component constituting the second bead outer rubber 222 is still in a high-temperature raw rubber state. As a method of forming the recess after extrusion molding, various methods such as cutting, compression molding, and heat molding can be used. In addition, as a recess having a substantially rectangular shape, for example, an oblong recess can be used. After the recess forming process, the configuration process of configuring the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 in the recess 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222, which will be described later, is performed. In addition, regarding the covering step of covering the RFID tag 40 with the covering rubber 43 and the recessed portion forming step of forming the recessed portion 22D in the second bead outer rubber 222, either step may be performed first.

[0121] The straight-line long rubber member constituting the second tire bead outer rubber 222 is then wound, as shown in FIG. Figure 6C In further detail, the second bead outer rubber 222 is formed into a ring shape by connecting one end side and the other end side of the long rubber member at the connecting portion 222C. At this time, the recessed portion 22D formed in the second bead outer rubber 222 presents an arc shape obtained by bending a substantially rectangular shape.

[0122] Thus, in this embodiment, before the configuration step of configuring the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 in the recessed portion 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222, the step of bending the recessed portion 22D formed in the second bead outer rubber 222 is also included.

[0123] Next, a configuration step is performed in which the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 is arranged in the recess 22D of the annular second tire bead outer rubber 222. That is, the covering rubber 43 having a substantially rectangular shape with a predetermined thickness is embedded in the recess 22D having a predetermined depth and a shape obtained by bending the substantially rectangular shape. In addition, since the covering rubber 43 and the antenna 42 such as the spring antenna in the covering rubber 43 are deformable, the covering rubber 43 can be bent while being embedded in the recess 22D having a shape obtained by bending the substantially rectangular shape. In this way, by embedding the covering rubber 43 in the recess 22D while being bent, the covering rubber 43 after being embedded is difficult to fall off from the recess 22D during the manufacturing process, thereby showing good workability. In addition, since the covering rubber 43 is assembled in the recess 22D formed in advance in the rubber component, the assembly workability is thus shown.

[0124] In this way, the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 is arranged in the recessed portion 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222. Thus, even when the RFID tag 40 is set on the tire 1, no bumps (large bumps) will be generated on the outer surface of the second bead outer rubber 222, and the uniformity will be good.

[0125] In addition, in order to minimize the unevenness of the outer surface of the second bead outer rubber 222, the thickness of the covering rubber 43 with which the RFID tag 40 is integrated is preferably substantially equal to the depth of the recess 22D constituting the fitting recess. Accordingly, since there is almost no step difference on the surface of the second bead outer rubber 222, the uniformity of the tire 1 is further improved.

[0126] In addition, the second bead outer rubber 222 is in the state of raw rubber before vulcanization, and since the covering rubber 43 is also preferably in the state of raw rubber before vulcanization, it can be pasted by utilizing its adhesiveness. Alternatively, in the case of low adhesiveness, adhesives can be used for pasting.

[0127] As shown in Fig. 4, the RFID tag 40 embedded in the tire 1 has a longitudinal direction if it includes an antenna. Such an RFID tag 40 is preferably embedded in the tire 1 in such a manner that its longitudinal direction is, for example, along the circumferential direction of the tire 1. By embedding in this way, even when the tire 1 is deformed, stress is less likely to be applied to the RFID tag 40.

[0128] In addition, you can also Figure 6BAs shown, the substantially rectangular recessed portion 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222, which is also a straight rubber member, is mounted with a substantially rectangular covering rubber 43 for holding the RFID tag 40. In this case, when the second bead outer rubber 222 is subsequently wound to form a circular ring, the substantially rectangular recessed portion 22D and the substantially rectangular covering rubber 43 are deformed into a shape obtained by bending the substantially rectangular shape.

[0129] Thus, in this embodiment, after the configuration step of configuring the covering rubber 43 that has covered the RFID tag 40 in the recessed portion 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222, the step of bending the recessed portion 22D formed in the second bead outer rubber 222 is also included.

[0130] By implementing such a process, after the second bead outer rubber 222 is formed into an annular shape, the coating rubber 43 embedded in the recessed portion 22D will be difficult to fall off from the recessed portion 22D, thereby showing good workability. In addition, the operation of installing the coating rubber 43 in the recessed portion 22D becomes simpler.

[0131] In addition, the covering rubber 43 holding the RFID tag 40 may be implanted in the tire in such a manner that its length direction is in the direction of a tangent line tangent to the tire circumferential direction. In this case, after the second bead outer rubber 222 is formed into a circular ring shape, a substantially rectangular recess 22D is formed on its surface, and then the substantially rectangular covering rubber 43 holding the RFID tag 40 is mounted in the substantially rectangular recess 22D. In this case, the operation of mounting the RFID tag 40 already covered by the covering rubber 43 in the recess 22D becomes simple.

[0132] Furthermore, the covering rubber 43 holding the RFID tag 40 is implanted in the tire 1 such that its longitudinal direction is in the direction of a tangent to the tire circumferential direction. Thus, even when the tire 1 is deformed, stress is less likely to be applied to the RFID tag 40 .

[0133] In addition, the recessed portion formed in the second bead outer rubber 222 can also be formed during extrusion molding. In this case, considering the ease of forming the recessed portion during extrusion molding, a groove-shaped recessed portion extending over the entire length of the second bead outer rubber 222 in a straight strip can also be formed. When the second bead outer rubber 222 is formed into a circular ring shape, the groove-shaped recessed portion becomes a circular ring-shaped groove portion. In this case, the covering rubber that holds the RFID tag 40 can also be formed by a circular ring-shaped rubber sheet. Alternatively, when using a covering rubber 43 in a roughly rectangular shape as shown in Figure 4, other rubber components can be arranged in the recessed portion other than the portion where the covering rubber 43 is installed to bury the groove portion.

[0134] In addition, the second bead outer rubber 222 may be directly molded into a circular ring using a mold. In this case, a substantially rectangular protrusion may be provided on the inner surface of the mold to form a substantially rectangular recess 22D in the second bead outer rubber 222.

[0135] Next, after the covering rubber 43 holding the RFID tag 40 is embedded in the recess 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222, a pasting process of pasting the rubber sheet 37 to the bead outer rubber 22 and the covering rubber 43 is implemented to cover the embedded covering rubber 43.

[0136] In this way, the covering rubber 43 embedded in the recess 22D is covered by the rubber sheet 37, thereby preventing (suppressing) the movement, deformation, peeling, etc. of the covering rubber 43 and the RFID tag 40 during tire molding, thereby improving the structural stability of the tire 1 after vulcanization.

[0137] At this time, since the bead outer rubber 22 and the rubber sheet 37 are in the state of raw rubber before vulcanization, they can be pasted by utilizing their adhesiveness. Alternatively, in the case of low adhesiveness, adhesives or the like can be used for pasting.

[0138] In addition, by combining the rubber components such as the tire bead outer rubber 22, the rubber sheet 37, and the covering rubber 43 in the raw rubber state before vulcanization, the bonding operation of the rubber components is facilitated. In addition, the integrity between the rubber components after vulcanization is improved, thereby improving the structural stability of the tire 1 after vulcanization.

[0139] Figure 7 The figure shows the bead outer rubber 22 in the manufacturing process as viewed from the outside in the tire width direction, and shows a state where the rubber sheet 37 is attached to the bead outer rubber 22 after the RFID tag 40 covered by the covering rubber 43 is arranged in the recessed portion 22D. Here, since the RFID tag 40 and the covering rubber 43 are covered by the rubber sheet 37, they are shown with dotted lines.

[0140] The rubber sheet 37 is formed into a circular ring shape by connecting one end of the long sheet with the other end at the connecting portion 37C. Moreover, when the position of the connecting portion 37C of the rubber sheet 37 is set to 0° with the center of the tire bead outer rubber 22 as a reference, the RFID tag 40 is arranged between the circular bead outer rubber 22 and the circular rubber sheet 37 within the range of +90° to +270°. It is further preferred that: Figure 7 As shown, it is configured in the vicinity of the position of +180°.

[0141] In this way, by arranging the RFID tag 40 at a position that is reliably separated from the connecting portion 37C of the rubber sheet 37 , it is possible to prevent the portion that may affect the uniformity of the tire 1 from overlapping.

[0142] In addition, in this embodiment, if Figure 7 As shown, the outer periphery 37A ( Figure 2 The outer diameter of the tire radial outer end 37A) when observed in the tire width direction cross section is slightly smaller than the outer periphery 22A ( Figure 2 The outer diameter of the tire radially outer end 22A) when observing the tire width direction cross section. However, the outer diameters of the two can also be roughly the same.

[0143] In this way, the rubber components constituting the tire are assembled to form a green tire.

[0144] Thereafter, the green tire assembled with the components including the RFID tag 40 is vulcanized in a vulcanization step to manufacture the tire.

[0145] That is, after the aforementioned configuration process of configuring the covering rubber 43 that covers the RFID tag 40 in the recessed portion 22D of the second bead outer guard rubber 222, a vulcanization process is performed, and in this vulcanization process, the raw tire assembled with the tire components including the second bead outer guard rubber 222 is vulcanized.

[0146] In addition, the rubber sheet 37 is formed into a circular ring in a state after the green tire is assembled so as to cover the folded end 25A of the carcass cord 23 over the entire circumference. Accordingly, the concentration of stress can be suppressed over the entire circumference. As a result, the stress borne by the RFID tag 40 will also be reduced.

[0147] Furthermore, as a modified example of the manufacturing process of the tire 1 , the following manufacturing process may be adopted.

[0148] For example, the RFID tag 40 covered with the covering rubber 43 is attached to the rubber sheet 37 side, and then the covering rubber 43 is embedded in the recess 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222. In addition, the rubber sheet 37 can also be attached to the second bead outer rubber 222.

[0149] As described above, as long as the coated rubber 43 is formed by two coated rubber sheets 431 and 432, the RFID tag 40 including the coated rubber 43 can be formed thinly, and therefore, it is very suitable for implantation in the tire 1. In addition, when the RFID tag 40 is assembled to the components of the tire 1 before vulcanization, the RFID tag 40 covered by the coated rubber sheet can be assembled very easily.

[0150] For example, the RFID tag 40 covered by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 can be appropriately attached to the recessed portion 22D of the second bead outer rubber 222 before vulcanization by utilizing the adhesiveness of the raw rubber. In addition, since the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 are also raw rubber before vulcanization, the adhesiveness of the covering rubber sheets themselves can also be utilized to facilitate attachment.

[0151] However, the covering rubber 43 is not limited to the form composed of two covering rubber sheets, and various forms can be adopted.

[0152] For example, the thickness of the two rubber sheets of the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 may be changed. The rubber sheet on the side that is strongly pressed during vulcanization or use may be formed thicker than the other rubber sheet, so that the side that is subjected to a large pressing force (stress) can be reliably and firmly protected.

[0153] In addition, for example, a configuration in which a covering rubber sheet is wound around the entire circumference of the RFID tag 40, or a configuration in which a covering rubber 43 in the form of a potting agent with high viscosity is attached to the entire circumference of the RFID tag 40. In addition, a configuration in which the RFID tag 40 is injection molded using rubber may also be used. Even with such a configuration, the RFID tag 40 can be appropriately protected.

[0154] Here, Figure 8A to Figure 8C This shows a modified example of the covering rubber 43 of the present embodiment. Fig. 9 , Fig.10 This is a partially enlarged view showing an RFID tag 40 in a tire 1 , only one surface of which is covered with a covering rubber 43 according to a modified example, and its surroundings.

[0155] like Figure 8A to Figure 8C As shown in the figure, the coating rubber 43 of the modified example is provided only on one side of the RFID tag 40. That is, the coating rubber sheet 431 constituting the coating rubber 43 is provided so as to cover only one side of the RFID tag 40. When the coating rubber 43 is provided only on one side of the RFID tag 40, the overall thickness can be made thinner. As long as the coating rubber sheet constituting the coating rubber 43 covers at least a part of the RFID tag 40, the effects of improving the workability in the manufacturing process and relieving stress can be obtained.

[0156] Moreover, if Figure 8A to Figure 8C As shown, when only one side of the RFID tag 40 is covered with the covering rubber 43 (covering rubber sheet 431), for example, Fig. 9 As shown, the RFID tag 40 is positioned on the outer surface side of the tire bead outer rubber 22 (the rubber sheet 37 and the liner component 34 side) to achieve excellent communication performance. Fig.10 As shown, by arranging the RFID tag 40 on the inner side of the tire bead outer rubber 22 (on the side of the carcass ply 23 ), excellent protection performance and durability performance can also be exerted.

[0157] As described above, the process of pre-forming the recessed portion 22D in the second bead outer rubber 222 constituting the rubber member of the tire 1 and arranging the covering rubber 43 for holding the RFID tag 40 in the recessed portion 22D is adopted, thereby improving the assembly workability of the RFID tag 40 in the manufacturing process of the tire 1. In addition, the uniformity is improved.

[0158] In addition, even if the configuration in which the covering rubber 43 for holding the electronic components such as the RFID tag 40 is arranged in the recessed portion formed on the rubber member before vulcanization is applied to a portion other than the above-mentioned portion, the same effect can be obtained. That is, even if the recessed portion is formed in the rubber member before vulcanization constituting the tire 1 other than the second bead outer rubber 222, and the covering rubber 43 for holding the electronic components such as the RFID tag 40 is arranged in the recessed portion, the same effect as the above-mentioned can be obtained, such as good workability or improved uniformity.

[0159] For example, Fig.11 As shown, even in the following form, that is, a recess 36D having a shape corresponding to the shape of the covering rubber 43 for holding electronic components such as the RFID tag 40 is formed in the rubber component constituting the tire 1, that is, the second liner 36, and the covering rubber 43 for holding the electronic components is arranged in the recess 36D, the same effect as described above can be obtained, such as good workability or improved uniformity.

[0160] Here, the second liner 36 is also a rubber member formed into a toroidal shape by winding a long rubber member before vulcanization. That is, it is a rubber member formed into a toroidal shape during vulcanization or completion. Accordingly, the process of forming the recessed portion 36D or the process of arranging the covering rubber 43 in the recessed portion 36D can be the same process as the process of forming the recessed portion 22D in the second bead outer rubber 222 or the process of arranging the covering rubber 43 in the recessed portion 22D.

[0161] In addition, the rubber member forming the recessed portion for arranging the covering rubber 43 may be another member such as the first gasket 35. Even in this case, the same effects as described above can be obtained, such as good workability and improved uniformity.

[0162] In addition, it is preferred that the pre-vulcanized covering rubber 43 disposed in the recessed portion is covered by other pre-vulcanized rubber components and then vulcanized together with the surrounding rubber components. For example, the pre-vulcanized covering rubber 43 disposed in the recessed portion 36D of the pre-vulcanized second gasket 36 is covered by the pre-vulcanized first gasket 35 and then vulcanized together with the second gasket and the first gasket. Accordingly, the integrity between the rubber components after vulcanization is improved, and the structural stability of the vulcanized tire 1 is also improved.

[0163] In addition, a step of covering the covering rubber 43 disposed in the recessed portion 36D with a rubber sheet (not shown) before vulcanization may be provided.

[0164] Alternatively, the RFID tag 40 may be replaced and the Fig.11 The electronic component held by the rubber coating 43 of either of the two rubber coatings 43 shown is replaced with another electronic component. In addition, for example, the recess 36D may be formed only in the second gasket 36, and the rubber coating 43 holding the electronic component such as the RFID tag 40 may be arranged only in the recess 36D.

[0165] In addition, in the present embodiment, although the RFID tag 40 is implanted in the tire as an electronic component, the electronic component implanted in the tire is not limited to the RFID tag. For example, various electronic components such as sensors for wireless communication may also be used. When electronic components are implanted in the tire, the impact on uniformity needs to be considered. In addition, since electronic components are used to process electrical information such as the sending and receiving of electrical signals, their performance may be reduced if there are metal parts near them. In addition, if excessive stress is applied to the electronic components, they may be damaged. Accordingly, the effect of the present invention can be obtained even when various electronic components are implanted in the tire. For example, the electronic components may also be piezoelectric elements or strain sensors.

[0166] According to the tire 1 of this embodiment, the following effects are produced.

[0167] (1) The manufacturing method of the tire 1 involved in the present embodiment is a method for manufacturing the following tire 1, that is, the tire 1 comprises: a bead core 21, a bead outer rubber 22 extending to the outer side of the bead core 21 in the tire radial direction, a carcass ply 23 extending from the bead core 21 to the other bead core 21 and folded back around the bead core 21, and an RFID tag 40 as an electronic component, the manufacturing method of the tire 1 includes: a covering step of covering at least a portion of the RFID tag 40 with a covering rubber 43, a recess forming step of forming a recess 22D in the bead outer rubber 22 having a shape corresponding to the shape of the covering rubber 43, and a configuration step of arranging the covering rubber 43 covering at least a portion of the RFID tag 40 in the recess 22D of the bead outer rubber 22.

[0168] According to this, even when the RFID tag 40 is provided on the tire 1 , a large step difference is not generated on the surface of the bead outer rubber 22 , and thus the uniformity is excellent.

[0169] (2) In the manufacturing method of the tire 1 involved in this embodiment, the tire 1 also has a rubber sheet 37 that covers the folded end 25A of the folded carcass cord 23, and the manufacturing method also includes: using the rubber sheet 37 to cover the covering rubber 43 arranged in the recessed portion 22D of the tire bead outer rubber 22.

[0170] This can prevent (suppress) movement, deformation, peeling, etc. of the coating rubber 43 and the RFID tag 40 during tire molding, and improve the structural stability of the tire 1 after vulcanization.

[0171] (3) The method for manufacturing the tire 1 according to the present embodiment may further include, before the arranging step, a step of bending the recessed portion 22D formed in the bead filler 22 .

[0172] This makes it difficult for the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 to fall off from the recessed portion 22D during the manufacturing process, thereby improving workability.

[0173] (4) The method for manufacturing the tire 1 according to the present embodiment may further include, after the arranging step, a step of bending the recessed portion 22D formed in the bead filler 22 .

[0174] This makes it difficult for the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 to fall off from the recessed portion 22D during the manufacturing process, thereby improving workability.

[0175] (5) The tire 1 involved in this embodiment comprises: a bead core 21, a bead outer rubber 22 extending toward the outer side of the bead core 21 in the tire radial direction, a carcass ply 23 extending from the bead core 21 toward the other bead core 21 and folded back around the bead core 21, and an RFID tag 40 as an electronic component. The tire 1 has: a covering rubber 43 covering at least a portion of the RFID tag 40, and a rubber sheet 37 covering the folded back end 25A of the folded back carcass ply 23, a recess 22D is formed in the bead outer rubber 22, the covering rubber 43 covering at least a portion of the RFID tag 40 is arranged in the recess 22D of the bead outer rubber 22, and the covering rubber 43 arranged in the recess 22D of the bead outer rubber is covered by the rubber sheet 37.

[0176] Therefore, even when the RFID tag 40 is provided on the tire 1, a large step difference will not be generated on the surface of the bead outer rubber 22, so that the uniformity is good. In addition, since it is covered by the rubber sheet 37, the movement, deformation, and peeling of the covering rubber 43 and the RFID tag 40 can be prevented (suppressed) during tire molding, so that the structural stability of the tire 1 after vulcanization is also improved.

[0177] (6) In the tire 1 according to the present embodiment, the thickness of the coating rubber 43 is substantially equal to the depth of the recessed portion 22D of the bead filler 22 .

[0178] Accordingly, there is almost no step difference on the surface of the bead outer rubber 22, and the uniformity is further improved.

[0179] (7) The coating rubber 43 of the tire 1 according to the present embodiment is composed of the first coating rubber sheet 431 and the second coating rubber sheet 432 between which the RFID tag 40 is sandwiched.

[0180] According to this, the RFID tag 40 can be reliably protected.

[0181] (8) The rubber coating 43 of the tire 1 according to the present embodiment is composed of one rubber coating sheet 431 , and covers either the tire width direction outer side of the RFID tag 40 or the tire width direction inner side of the RFID tag 40 .

[0182] According to this, the coating rubber 43 can be made thinner while protecting the RFID tag 40 .

[0183] (9) The modulus of the coating rubber 43 of the tire 1 according to the present embodiment is lower than the modulus of the rubber sheet 37 .

[0184] By arranging the RFID tag 40 near the rubber sheet 37 having a high modulus, even when the tire 1 is deformed, the deformation of the peripheral portion of the RFID tag 40 can be suppressed. In addition, the RFID tag 40 is covered with the covering rubber 43 having a low modulus, so that the covering rubber 43 can absorb the deformation, and the deformation of the rubber sheet 37 is not directly transmitted to the RFID tag 40.

[0185] (10) The tire 1 according to the present embodiment includes the liner member 34 disposed on the tire width direction outer side of the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 , and the rubber sheet 37 and the RFID tag 40 disposed between the bead outer rubber 22 and the liner member 34 .

[0186] According to this, the RFID tag 40 can be protected more firmly.

[0187] (11) The tire 1 according to the present embodiment is configured such that the modulus of at least the portion of the cushion member 34 covering the folded-back end 25A of the carcass ply 23 and the modulus of the rubber sheet 37 are both higher than the modulus of the surrounding rubber members.

[0188] This makes it possible to more firmly protect the RFID tag 40 provided around the rubber sheet 37 .

[0189] (12) The manufacturing method of the tire 1 involved in this embodiment includes: a covering step of covering at least a portion of the RFID tag 40 as an electronic component with a covering rubber 43, a recess forming step of forming a recess (for example, recess 22D, recess 36D) in a shape corresponding to the shape of the covering rubber in a rubber component constituting the tire 1 (for example, the second bead outer rubber 222, the second liner 36), and a configuration step of configuring the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 in the recess of the rubber component.

[0190] According to this, even when the tire 1 is provided with the RFID tag 40 as an electronic component, a large step difference is not generated on the surface of the rubber member constituting the tire 1, and the uniformity is excellent.

[0191] (13) The method for manufacturing the tire 1 according to the present embodiment further includes a step of covering the covering rubber arranged in the recessed portion of the rubber member constituting the tire 1 with a rubber sheet.

[0192] This can prevent (suppress) movement, deformation, peeling, etc. of the coating rubber 43 and the RFID tag 40 during tire molding, and improve the structural stability of the tire 1 after vulcanization.

[0193] (14) The method for manufacturing the tire 1 according to the present embodiment further includes a step of bending the recessed portion formed in the rubber member before the step of arranging the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 in the recessed portion of the rubber member.

[0194] This makes it difficult for the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 to fall off from the recessed portion 22D during the manufacturing process, thereby improving workability.

[0195] (15) The method for manufacturing the tire 1 according to the present embodiment further includes the step of bending the recessed portion formed in the rubber member after the step of arranging the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 in the recessed portion of the rubber member.

[0196] This makes it difficult for the covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 to fall off from the recessed portion 22D during the manufacturing process, thereby improving workability.

[0197] (16) The tire 1 involved in this embodiment is configured as follows: a recessed portion is formed in a rubber member constituting the tire 1, and a covering rubber 43 covering the RFID tag 40 is arranged in the recessed portion of the rubber member, and the covering rubber 43 arranged in the recessed portion of the rubber member is covered by a rubber sheet 37.

[0198] Thus, even when the RFID tag 40 is provided on the tire 1, no large step difference is generated on the surface of the rubber member constituting the tire 1, and the uniformity is good. In addition, since it is covered by the rubber sheet 37, the movement, deformation, and peeling of the covering rubber 43 and the RFID tag 40 can be prevented (suppressed) during tire molding, etc., thereby improving the structural stability of the tire 1 after vulcanization.

[0199] <Second embodiment>

[0200] Next, refer to Fig.12 , a tire according to a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0201] In the present embodiment, the rubber sheet 37 is formed of multiple layers.

[0202] Specifically, the rubber sheet 37 includes an inner surface layer 371 facing the RFID tag 40 covered by the covering rubber 43 (protective member 430), and an outer layer 372 located farther from the RFID tag 40 than the inner surface layer 371. The modulus of the inner surface layer 371 is lower than that of the outer layer 372.

[0203] In this way, the modulus of the rubber member is set so that the closer it is to the RFID tag 40 , the lower the modulus is, so that the RFID tag 40 can be appropriately protected.

[0204] That is, due to the presence of the outer layer 372 having a higher modulus, even when the tire 1 is deformed, the deformation of the peripheral portion of the RFID tag 40 can be suppressed. In addition, due to the presence of the inner surface layer 371 having a lower modulus, the difference between the deformation of the RFID tag 40 and the deformation of the outer layer 372 can be absorbed.

[0205] The modulus of the outer layer 372 is preferably 1.1 to 1.2 times that of the second liner 36. In other words, the modulus of the outer layer 372 is preferably substantially equal to the modulus of the portion of the liner member 34 that covers at least the folded end 25A of the carcass ply 23 (the first liner 35).

[0206] In addition, the modulus of the inner surface layer 371 is preferably substantially equal to that of the second bead outer rubber 222. Alternatively, in consideration of effectively absorbing the difference in deformation, a rubber having a modulus lower than that of the second bead outer rubber 222 may be used.

[0207] In addition, the rubber sheet 37 only needs to include two layers having at least the functions of the inner surface layer and the outer layer described above, and may be formed of three or more layers, for example.

[0208] According to the tire according to the present embodiment, in addition to the above-mentioned (1) to (16), the following effects can be produced.

[0209] (17) The rubber sheet 37 includes: an inner surface layer 371 facing the coating rubber 43 that covers at least a portion of the RFID tag 40, and an outer layer 372 that is closer to the outside than the inner surface layer, and the modulus of the inner surface layer 371 is lower than the modulus of the outer layer 372.

[0210] According to this, the presence of the outer layer 372 having a higher modulus can suppress the deformation of the peripheral portion of the RFID tag 40 even when the tire 1 is deformed. In addition, the presence of the inner surface layer 371 having a lower modulus can absorb the difference between the deformation of the RFID tag 40 and the deformation of the outer layer 372. According to this, the RFID tag 40 can be appropriately protected.

[0211] <Third embodiment>

[0212] Next, refer to Figures 13 to 19 , a tire according to a third embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the first and second embodiments, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0213] This embodiment is a particularly preferred embodiment when the antenna of the RFID tag 40 is a coil-shaped spring antenna.

[0214] The RFID tag 40 of this embodiment can use a coil-shaped spring antenna 421 having high communication performance and flexibility as an antenna. The spring antenna 421 is set to an optimal antenna length according to the frequency band used and the like.

[0215] In this embodiment, before the RFID tag 40 is sandwiched between the two rubber sheets 431 and 432 constituting the rubber coating 43 (protective member 430), rubber is placed in the spring antenna 421. It is more preferable to fill the spring antenna with rubber so that as little air as possible is left. Figures 13 to 19 , to explain the process and the reasons for adopting the process.

[0216] First, as a reference example, use Figure 13 to Figure 15 , to illustrate the state of the periphery of the RFID tag 40 when the spring antenna 421 is not filled with rubber. Fig.13 1 and 2 are diagrams showing cross sections of the spring antenna 421 and the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 before the RFID tag 40 is sandwiched between the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 . Fig.14 1 and 2 are diagrams showing cross sections of the spring antenna 421 and the rubber coating sheets 431 and 432 after the RFID tag 40 is sandwiched between the rubber coating sheets 431 and 432 .

[0217] like Fig.14 As shown, in this reference example, since the spring antenna 421 is not filled with rubber in advance, air 45 may remain in the spring antenna 421 to a certain extent after being sandwiched by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432. In this way, if air remains, the integrity of the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 and the spring antenna 421 is not sufficient, and when the tire is deformed, the spring antenna 421 may not follow the movement of the rubber, resulting in damage to the RFID tag 40 having the spring antenna 421.

[0218] In addition, here, raw rubber before vulcanization is used as the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432. Fig.14 As shown, by pressing the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 from both sides, the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 are sunk into the spring antenna to some extent. However, it takes a very long time and effort to sunk the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 until the spring antenna is completely filled.

[0219] Furthermore, even if it takes time for the covering rubber sheet to sink into the spring antenna and fill it up, Fig.15 As shown, the distance L between the outer periphery of the spring antenna 421 and the outer surface of the covering rubber sheets 431, 432 becomes very short. In addition, it is difficult to keep the distance L stable, and there is a possibility that a thinner portion will be generated locally. As a result, the protection of the RFID tag 40 by the covering rubber sheets 431, 432 will become insufficient, and the covering rubber sheets 431, 432 may be damaged during vulcanization.

[0220] Therefore, in this embodiment, if Figures 16 to 19 As shown, before the RFID tag 40 is sandwiched by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432, rubber is arranged in the spring antenna 421. It is more preferable to fill the spring antenna with rubber in a manner that leaves as little air as possible. Figures 16 to 19 The figure shown on the right side in the middle is a cross-sectional view showing the spring antenna 421 and its surroundings.

[0221] Fig.16 This is a diagram showing a state before the spring antenna 421 is filled with the rubber 46 . Fig.17 This is a diagram showing a state after the spring antenna 421 is filled with the rubber 46 .

[0222] The rubber 46 is embedded so that its outer diameter is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the outer peripheral surface of the spring antenna 421. Furthermore, it is preferable that, when the rubber 46 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the spring antenna 421, the protruding portion can be wiped off. That is, it is preferable that the outer peripheral surface of the rubber 46 is formed to be substantially flush with the outer peripheral surface of the spring antenna 421.

[0223] Alternatively, the rubber 46 may be filled into the spring antenna 421 and the outer periphery of the spring antenna 421 may be thinly wrapped with the rubber 46. On the other hand, if the spring antenna 421 is thickly wrapped with the rubber 46, the flexibility of the spring antenna 421 is impaired, and the width dimension formed by sandwiching the RFID tag 40 between the coated rubber sheets 431 and 432 becomes larger, which is not preferred.

[0224] Alternatively, the rubber 46 may be embedded so that its outer diameter is substantially the same as the diameter of the inner peripheral surface of the spring antenna 421. The outer peripheral portion of the rubber 46 is preferably located within the range from the inner peripheral surface to the outer peripheral surface of the spring antenna 421.

[0225] As described above, in the process of configuring rubber in the spring antenna 421, since the rubber is not piled up around the RFID chip 41 but only filled in the spring antenna 421, in the subsequent process, even if the RFID tag 40 is sandwiched by the coated rubber sheets 431 and 432, the RFID tag 40 sandwiched by the coated rubber sheets 431 and 432 can be compactly constructed.

[0226] Here, in order to ensure the flexibility of the spring antenna 421, a flexible rubber may be used as the rubber 46. However, in consideration of workability, etc., it is preferable to use a rubber having a higher modulus than the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 as the rubber 46.

[0227] In addition, unvulcanized rubber is preferably used as the rubber 46 disposed in the spring antenna 421. By making the rubber 46 and the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 unvulcanized rubber and vulcanizing them at the same time, the integrity of the rubber 46, the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432, and the spring antenna 421 can be improved. In addition, the rubber 46 and the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 are more preferably the same type of rubber.

[0228] If the flexibility of the spring antenna 421 is important, a rubber having a modulus lower than that of the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 may be used as the rubber 46. Alternatively, rubber having substantially the same modulus or rubber of the same material may be used.

[0229] In addition, vulcanized rubber may be used as the rubber 46 disposed in the spring antenna 421. In addition, rubber-based adhesives, rubber-based fillers, etc. may also be used. In consideration of ensuring flexibility and leaving as little air as possible in the spring antenna 421, various rubber-based materials may be used.

[0230] As the operation of disposing the rubber 46, various methods can be adopted, and for example, the rubber can be injected into the spring antenna 421 using a syringe. In this case, the syringe can be used to fill the set appropriate amount of rubber 46. In addition, after a large amount of rubber 46 is filled, the portion protruding from the outer periphery of the spring antenna 421 can be wiped off.

[0231] Fig.18 4 is a diagram showing a state before the RFID tag 40 filled with rubber 46 in the spring antenna 421 is sandwiched by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432. Fig.19 This is a diagram showing a state after being sandwiched by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 .

[0232] like Fig.19As shown, according to this embodiment, since the rubber 46 is pre-filled in the spring antenna 421, there is no air stagnation between the coated rubber sheets 431 and 432. Therefore, there is no need to worry about the problem of air stagnation, and the process of sandwiching the RFID tag 40 using the coated rubber sheets 431 and 432 becomes simple.

[0233] In addition, by configuring the rubber 46 in the spring antenna 421, the integrity of the spring antenna 421, the rubber 46, and the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 is improved, and when the tire deforms, the spring antenna 421 will follow the movement of the rubber. Accordingly, the durability of the RFID tag 40 having the spring antenna 421 can also be improved.

[0234] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the distance L between the outer periphery of the spring antenna 421 and the outer surface of the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 is stable. That is, as the distance L, it is possible to ensure a distance approximately close to the thickness of the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432. Accordingly, the RFID tag 40 is sufficiently protected by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432.

[0235] In the present embodiment, the RFID tag 40 sandwiched by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 is arranged on the bead filler 22 and the like, and then the green tire is vulcanized.

[0236] According to the tire according to the present embodiment, in addition to the above-mentioned (1) to (17), the following effects can be produced.

[0237] (18) In the present embodiment, there are: a process of configuring rubber 46 in a spring antenna 421 of an RFID tag 40 which is an electronic component having a communication function, a process of clamping the RFID tag 40 having a spring antenna 421 configured with rubber 46 using covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 constituting the covering rubber 43, and a process of configuring the RFID tag 40 clamped by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 in the recessed portion 22D of the tire outer rubber 22.

[0238] Thus, the air 45 does not remain in the spring antenna 421. In addition, there is no need to worry about the problem of air stagnation, and thus the process of sandwiching the RFID tag 40 with the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 becomes simple.

[0239] In addition, the distance L between the outer periphery of the spring antenna 421 and the outer surfaces of the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 is stable, so the RFID tag 40 is sufficiently protected by the covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 .

[0240] <Fourth embodiment>

[0241] Next, refer to Figures 20 to 25 , a tire according to a fourth embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0242] The tire 2 of this embodiment is suitable for use as a tire for a passenger car, for example. Fig. 20 As shown, the tire 1 according to the first embodiment has a portion whose configuration is different from that of the tire 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0243] Even in a tire with such a different structure, as long as the form described in the first embodiment is adopted, that is, a recess is formed in the rubber part constituting the tire before vulcanization, and a covering rubber 43 for holding electronic components such as an RFID tag 40 is arranged in the recess, the same effect as the first embodiment can be obtained, such as good operability or improved uniformity.

[0244] For example, since it can be imagined that the tire 2 of this embodiment is mainly used for passenger cars with a small load, it does not include the padding component 34 (the first pad 35, the second pad 36), the rubber sheet 37, and the shoulder pad 38. In addition, the bead outer rubber 22 is not divided into the first bead outer rubber 221 and the second bead outer rubber 222 but is integrated. In addition, the bead cover 31 is composed of rubber kneaded with fibers or rubber with a high modulus. In addition, the cushioning rubber 32 is arranged on the outside of the cord folding portion 25 and the bead cover 31 in the tire width direction. The tread portion 12 includes: a crown cord 27 as a belt layer reinforcement layer arranged on the tire radial outside of the belt layer 26. The crown cord 27 is formed by covering an insulating organic fiber layer such as polyamide fiber with rubber. By providing the crown cord 27, it is possible to achieve: improvement of durability and reduction of road noise during driving.

[0245] As described above, the tire 2 of the present embodiment has a portion having a structure different from that of the tire 1 of the first embodiment.

[0246] The RFID tag 40 of this embodiment is covered by the same protective member 430 as the first embodiment. Fig. 22 As shown, the ring-shaped rubber sheet 47 is covered with the ring-shaped rubber sheet 47 as a fitting and holding member, and is integrally mounted at a predetermined position of the ring-shaped rubber sheet 47.

[0247] In this case, the protective member 430 and the annular rubber sheet 47 of the present embodiment constitute the covering rubber 43 that covers at least a portion of the RFID tag 40 .

[0248] The RFID tag 40 need not necessarily be implanted in the tire 2 in a state covered by the protective member 430. That is, the protective member 430 may not be provided, and only the RFID chip 41 and the antenna 42 may be provided integrally on the annular rubber sheet (fitting holding member) 47.

[0249] In this case, the annular rubber sheet 47 of the present embodiment constitutes the covering rubber 43 that covers at least a portion of the RFID tag 40 .

[0250] In addition, the RFID tag 40 (including the state protected by the protective member 430) may be completely covered by the annular rubber sheet 47 or may be covered with a portion exposed. In the case of being completely covered, for example, the annular rubber sheet 47 may be formed by two rubber sheets, and the RFID tag 40 may be installed by sandwiching it between the two annular rubber sheets.

[0251] The annular rubber sheet 47 is preferably made of, for example, the same rubber material as that of the protection member 430 .

[0252] Furthermore, in the tire 2 of the present embodiment, as Fig. 20 as well as Fig.21 As shown, on the outer surface (surface, one side) of the rubber bead outer guard 22 which is formed in a manner that the cross-section is roughly triangular with a tapered front end, toward the outside in the tire width direction (the outer surface side of the tire), there is formed an annular interlocking recess 22E which is recessed from the outer surface toward the inner surface (the back side, the other side), and a circular annular rubber sheet 47 in which the RFID tag 40 is integrated is embedded in the interlocking recess 22E, and is arranged concentrically with the tire 2, so that the RFID tag 40 is implanted inside the tire 2.

[0253] The annular fitting recess 22E is formed corresponding to the shape of the annular rubber sheet 47, and is formed so that when the annular rubber sheet 47 is fitted into the fitting recess 22E, no bumps (large bumps) will be generated on the outer surface of the tire bead outer rubber 22 due to the annular rubber sheet 47.

[0254] Furthermore, in the tire 2 of the present embodiment, Fig. 20 , Fig.21 , Fig.23 As shown, an annular rubber sheet 48 serving as a covering and retaining member is installed on the outer surface of the bead outer rubber 22 so as to cover the fitting recess 22E of the bead outer rubber 22 and further the annular rubber sheet 47 fitted in the fitting recess 22E.

[0255] The annular rubber sheet 48 is preferably formed as thin as possible within a range in which the annular rubber sheet 47 (RFID tag 40) can be kept embedded in the fitting recess 22E. In addition, the annular rubber sheet 48 is preferably formed so as to be able to be attached to the outer surface of the bead outer rubber 22 by utilizing the adhesiveness of the raw rubber of the bead outer rubber 22 or by imparting adhesiveness to one side. In addition, it is preferably a rubber material that can be fused with the bead outer rubber 22 by heating or pressurizing the raw tire in the manufacturing process of the tire 2 described later.

[0256] Here, in the present embodiment, although the rubber sheet 47 of the interlocking retaining component is formed into a circular ring shape, and the interlocking recess 22E of the tire bead outer rubber 22 interlocked therewith is formed into a circular ring shape, the rubber sheet 47 is not necessarily circular ring-shaped, and correspondingly, the interlocking recess 22E may not be circular ring-shaped. That is, as long as the rubber sheet 47 with the RFID tag 40 as an integral part is installed so as to be embedded in the interlocking recess 22E in a manner that does not produce bumps (large bumps) on the tire bead outer rubber 22, there is no need to limit the shape of the rubber sheet 47 of the interlocking retaining component and the interlocking recess 22E. For example, as shown in the first embodiment, the shape of the rubber sheet 47 of the interlocking retaining component and the interlocking recess 22E may also be roughly rectangular.

[0257] Even if the rubber sheet 48 of the covering and retaining component is mounted on the outer surface of the tire bead outer rubber 22, it does not need to be formed into a circular ring shape as long as it can cover and retain the rubber sheet 47 (RFID tag 40) when it is embedded in the fitting recess 22E.

[0258] On the other hand, when manufacturing the tire 2 of the present embodiment constructed as described above (in the tire manufacturing method of the present embodiment), there are: a step of forming an engaging recess 22E corresponding to the shape of the rubber sheet 47 of the engaging retaining component with which the RFID tag (electronic component) 40 is integrated in the bead outer rubber 22 (engaging recess forming step), a step of embedding the rubber sheet 47 of the engaging retaining component with which the RFID tag (electronic component) 40 is integrated into the engaging recess 22E of the bead outer rubber 22 for installation (electronic component installation step), a step of attaching the rubber sheet 48 of the covering retaining component to the bead outer rubber 22 for installation and covering and retaining the rubber sheet 47 embedded in the engaging recess 22E and thus the RFID tag 40 (covering retaining component installation step), and a step of molding and vulcanizing the raw tire with the RFID tag 40 installed (molding step, vulcanization step).

[0259] In the process of forming the fitting recess 22E in the tire bead outer rubber 22, it is not necessary to limit the means and techniques for forming the fitting recess 22E, as long as appropriate means are used. As means and techniques for forming the fitting recess 22E, for example, the fitting recess 22E is formed while the tire bead outer rubber 22 is extruded, or the fitting recess 22E is formed by cutting, compression molding, heat molding, etc. on the processed tire bead outer rubber 22.

[0260] Moreover, in the tire 2 (and the manufacturing method of the tire 2) of the present embodiment, when the tire is manufactured, the rubber sheet 47 of the interlocking retaining component on which the RFID tag 40 is installed is embedded in the interlocking recess 22E formed in the tire bead outer rubber 22. Through the above-mentioned simple operation, the RFID tag 40 can be easily assembled to the tire bead outer rubber 22.

[0261] In addition, the annular engaging recess 22E of the bead outer guard 22 is formed by the size of the rubber sheet 47 into which the RFID tag 40 is integrated. Even if the RFID tag 40 is installed on the outer surface side of the bead outer guard 22 by embedding the rubber sheet 47 into the engaging recess 22E, no unevenness will be generated on the outer surface of the bead outer guard 22, thereby maintaining and ensuring the circumferential uniformity of the thickness of the bead outer guard 22.

[0262] According to this, according to the tire 2 (and the method for manufacturing the tire 2 ) of the present embodiment, a large step difference is not generated due to the RFID tag 40 , and degradation of uniformity can be eliminated.

[0263] Furthermore, since the RFID tag 40 is provided on the tire bead outer rubber 22 and is embedded in the form of being wrapped in the carcass ply 23, the RFID tag 40 is protected by the carcass ply 23 during tire manufacturing and use after tire manufacturing, thereby suppressing vibration or deformation force acting on the RFID tag 40. Accordingly, the durability of the RFID tag (electronic component) 40 can be improved, and its communication performance (performance) can be better maintained and ensured.

[0264] Furthermore, in the tire 2 (and the method for manufacturing the tire 2 ) of the present embodiment, the RFID tag 40 is provided integrally with the rubber sheet 47 of the fitting holding member.

[0265] Furthermore, the RFID tag 40 is covered with a protective member 430 .

[0266] Furthermore, the RFID tag 40 fitted in the fitting recess 22E and mounted is covered by the rubber sheet 48 covering the holding member.

[0267] By means of such various structures and combinations of structures, it is possible to effectively suppress vibration or deformation force acting on the RFID tag 40 during tire manufacturing, use of the tire after manufacturing, etc. Accordingly, it is possible to further improve the durability of the RFID tag (electronic component) 40, and to optimally maintain and ensure its communication performance (performance).

[0268] In addition, the RFID tag 40 installed by being engaged in the engaging recess 22E is covered with a rubber sheet 48 of the covering retaining component. This can prevent (suppress) the movement, deformation, and peeling of the rubber sheet 47 and the RFID tag 40 during tire molding, thereby improving the structural stability of the tire 2 after vulcanization.

[0269] In addition, in using FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The thickness of the two covering rubber sheets 431 and 432 shown in FIG. 4 is changed, or FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C When the RFID tag 40 is covered with a covering rubber sheet 431, for example, Fig.24 As shown, the RFID tag 40 is positioned on the outer surface side of the tire bead outer rubber 22 (on the side of the tire body ply 23, which can exert excellent communication performance. Fig.25 As shown, the RFID tag 40 is positioned on the inner side of the bead outer rubber 22 (on the side of the carcass ply 23 ), which can provide excellent protection performance and durability.

[0270] According to the tire according to the present embodiment, in addition to the above-mentioned (1) to (18), the following effects can be produced.

[0271] (19) The manufacturing method of the tire 2 of the present embodiment is a method for manufacturing the following tire 2, that is, the tire 2 comprises: a bead core 21 arranged at the inner end portion in the tire radial direction, a bead outer rubber 22 extending to the outer side of the bead core 21 in the tire radial direction, a carcass ply 23 extending from the outer side in the tire radial direction to the inner side in the tire radial direction and having a ply folding portion 25 that is folded back in a manner to enclose the bead core 21 and the bead outer rubber 22 and extends to the outer side in the tire radial direction, and an RFID tag 40 implanted in the interior of the tire 2 as an electronic component. The manufacturing method of the tire 1 includes: a step of forming a fitting recess 22E on the surface of the bead outer rubber 22, and a step of embedding the RFID tag 40 as an electronic component into the fitting recess 22E for installation.

[0272] Accordingly, even when the tire 2 is provided with the RFID tag 40 , a large step difference is not generated on the surface of the bead outer rubber 22 , and the uniformity is good.

[0273] (20) The method for manufacturing the tire 2 of the present embodiment includes the step of attaching a covering holding member that covers and holds the fitting holding member to the surface of the bead outer rubber 22 after the fitting holding member is attached to the fitting recess 22E.

[0274] This can prevent (suppress) movement, deformation, peeling, etc. of the coating rubber 43 and the RFID tag 40 during tire molding, and improve the structural stability of the tire 2 after vulcanization.

[0275] (21) The tire 2 of the present embodiment comprises: a bead core 21 arranged at the inner end portion in the radial direction of the tire, a bead outer guard 22 extending from the bead core 21 to the outer side in the radial direction of the tire, a carcass ply 23 extending from the outer side in the radial direction of the tire to the inner side in the radial direction of the tire and having a ply folding portion 25 which is folded back in a manner to innerwrap the bead core 21 and the bead outer guard 22 and extends to the outer side in the radial direction of the tire, and an RFID tag 40 as an electronic component implanted in the interior of the tire 2. The RFID tag 40 as an electronic component is provided as an integrated engaging retaining component and is embedded in an engaging recess 22E formed on the surface of the bead outer guard 22, and the RFID tag 40 as an electronic component is implanted.

[0276] Accordingly, even when the tire 2 is provided with the RFID tag 40 , a large step difference is not generated on the surface of the bead outer rubber 22 , and the uniformity is good.

[0277] (22) The tire 2 of the present embodiment is configured such that the covering holding member 48 for covering and holding the fitting holding member fitted into the fitting recess 22E is provided on the surface of the bead outer rubber 22 .

[0278] This can prevent (suppress) movement, deformation, peeling, etc. of the coating rubber 43 and the RFID tag 40 during tire molding, and improve the structural stability of the tire 2 after vulcanization.

[0279] Furthermore, the tire of the present invention can be applied to various tires such as passenger cars, light trucks, trucks, and buses.

[0280] In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and modifications and improvements made within the scope that can achieve the purpose of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

[0281] Description of Reference Numerals

[0282] 1, 2…tire; 11…bead portion; 12…tread portion; 13…sidewall portion; 21…bead core; 22…bead outer rubber; 22D…recess; 221…first bead outer rubber; 222…second bead outer rubber; 222C…joining portion; 23…carcass cord; 24…cord body; 25…cord folding portion; 25A…folding end; 26…steel belt layer; 28…tread rubber; 29…inner liner; 30…sidewall rubber; 31…chafer; 3 2…pad rubber; 34…cushion member; 35…first cushion; 36…second cushion; 36D…recess; 37…rubber sheet; 371…inner surface layer; 372…outer layer; 37C…connecting portion; 40…RFID tag; 41…RFID chip; 42…antenna; 421…spring antenna; 43…coated rubber; 430…protective member; 431, 432…coated rubber sheet; 46…rubber; 47…rubber sheet; 48…rubber sheet.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a tire, comprising: a bead core, a bead outer rubber extending outwardly of the bead core in the tire radial direction, a carcass cord extending from the bead core to the other bead core and folded back around the bead core, and an electronic component, wherein: The tire manufacturing method includes: a covering step of covering at least a portion of the electronic component with a covering rubber, a recessed portion forming step of forming a recessed portion having a shape corresponding to the shape of the covering rubber in the tire bead outer rubber, and a placement step of placing the covering rubber covering at least a portion of the electronic component in the recessed portion of the tire bead outer rubber. In the recess forming step, the recess is formed in the tire bead outer rubber by at least one of cutting, compression forming, and heat forming. The depth of the recessed portion is equal to the thickness of the covering rubber covering the electronic component.

2. The method for manufacturing a tire according to claim 1, characterized in that: The tire further comprises: a rubber sheet covering the folded-back end of the folded-back carcass ply; The tire manufacturing method further includes a step of covering the covering rubber disposed in the recessed portion of the bead filler with the rubber sheet.

3. The method for manufacturing a tire according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The tire manufacturing method may further include, before the arranging step, a step of bending a recessed portion formed in the bead guard.

4. The method for manufacturing a tire according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: After the arrangement step, the tire manufacturing method further includes: a step of bending the recessed portion formed in the bead guard.

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