tire

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a tire having a first area and a second area provided on an outer surface of the tire, the first area having a concavo-convex surface formed by convex portions arranged throughout the entire area, the second area having a concavo-convex surface formed by a plurality of ridges arranged in parallel throughout the entire area, and the second area being arranged adjacent to the first area, wherein a minimum spacing distance between tops of the convex portions in the first area is shorter than a minimum spacing distance between tops of two adjacent ridges in the second area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tire. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, tires have been provided with characters, symbols, graphics, patterns, etc. on their outer surfaces in a manner that allows for identification from the outside. Patent Document 1 describes this type of tire. The tire described in Patent Document 1 has asymmetrical narrow stripes in a first portion (the portion surrounding the characters) and a second portion (the portion containing the characters).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-522294 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The tire of Patent Document 1 is provided with asymmetric narrow strips in the first and second portions for creating optical contrast between the first and second portions at various viewing angles and lighting angles, thereby making text easier to read.

[0008] However, the tire of Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of making a specific area such as a portion with text stand out more.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a tire capable of improving visibility of a specific area on the outer surface of the tire.

[0010] Solutions for solving problems

[0011] The tire according to the first aspect of the present disclosure includes, on the outer surface of the tire: a first area including a concave-convex surface formed by convex portions arranged over the entire area of the first area; and a second area including a concave-convex surface formed by a plurality of ridges arranged in parallel over the entire area of the second area, the second area being configured to be adjacent to the first area, wherein the minimum spacing distance between the tops of the convex portions in the first area is shorter than the minimum spacing distance between the tops of two adjacent ridges in the second area.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a tire capable of improving visibility of a specific area on the outer surface of the tire. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] In the attached figure:

[0015] Figure 1is a cross-sectional view taken along a cross section parallel to the tire width direction when the tire as an embodiment of the present disclosure is in a reference state;

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a side view of the tire shown;

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 an enlarged view of a portion of;

[0018] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 an enlarged view of the vicinity of a portion of the letter "D" in FIG. 1 and a further enlarged view of the portion;

[0019] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of section II-II;

[0020] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of section III-III;

[0021] Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of section II;

[0022] Figure 8 It shows Figure 4 Figures showing variations of the first and second regions shown;

[0023] Figure 9 It shows Figure 4 A diagram showing another variation of the second region shown; and

[0024] Figure 10 is a diagram showing the following structure: Figure 9 In the illustrated second region, ridges having a higher protrusion height than the ridges in each segmented region are provided at boundaries of the plurality of segmented regions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following describes embodiments of the tire according to the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein common components, parts, and directions are marked with the same reference numerals.

[0026] The tire according to the present disclosure includes both pneumatic tires and non-pneumatic tires. In the present embodiment, a pneumatic tire is described as an example of the tire according to the present disclosure.

[0027] Unless otherwise specified, the dimensions, length relationships, positional relationships, etc. of each element are measured under the assumption that the pneumatic tire is mounted on an applicable rim, inflated to a specified internal pressure, and is unloaded.

[0028] "Applicable rim" refers to the standard rim specified in the following standards according to the tire size ("Design rim" in the yearbook of the Tire and Rim Association (TRA) and "Measurement rim" in the standard manual of the European Tire and Rim Technical Organization (ETRTO). The standards are determined based on the effective industrial standards in the region where the tire is produced or used. Examples of these standards include the yearbook of the TRA in the United States, the standard manual of the ETRTO in Europe, and the JATMA yearbook of the Japan Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA) in Japan. In addition to the current sizes, "applicable rim" also includes sizes that may be included in the above-mentioned industrial standards in the future. Examples of sizes that may be specified in the future in the above-mentioned industrial standards include the sizes specified under FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS in the 2013 edition of ETRTO. In the case of sizes not listed in the above-mentioned industrial standards, "applicable rim" refers to a rim with a width corresponding to the bead width of the pneumatic tire.

[0029] "Specified internal pressure" refers to the air pressure (maximum air pressure) corresponding to the maximum load capacity of a single wheel of the applicable size / ply level specified in the aforementioned JATMA Yearbook, etc. In the case of sizes not specified in the aforementioned industrial standards, "specified internal pressure" refers to the air pressure (maximum air pressure) corresponding to the maximum load capacity specified for each vehicle on which the tire is mounted. The "maximum load" described below refers to the maximum tire load capacity specified in the aforementioned standards (such as JATMA) for the applicable tire size, or in the case of sizes not specified in the aforementioned industrial standards, "maximum load" refers to the load corresponding to the maximum load capacity specified for each vehicle on which the tire is mounted.

[0030] Figure 1 A pneumatic tire 1 (hereinafter referred to as "tire 1") is shown as this embodiment. Specifically, Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the tire 1 in a reference state in which the tire 1 is mounted on the applicable rim 2, filled to a specified internal pressure, and unloaded, in a section parallel to the tire width direction A. This section is hereinafter referred to as a "tire width direction cross section." Since the tire 1 in this embodiment has a symmetrical structure with respect to the tire equatorial plane CL, Figure 1 A tire widthwise cross section is shown on only one side of the tire equatorial plane CL in the tire widthwise direction A. However, the tire may have an asymmetric configuration with respect to the tire equatorial plane CL.

[0031] <Applicable rim 2>

[0032] Figure 1The applicable rim 2 in the present embodiment shown includes a rim seat portion 2a and a rim flange portion 2b, to which the bead member 3 described below of the tire 1 is attached on the outer side in the tire radial direction B, and the rim flange portion 2b protrudes from both ends of the rim seat portion 2a in the tire width direction A toward the outer side in the tire radial direction B.

[0033] Tire 1

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the tire 1 includes a tread portion 1a and a pair of sidewall portions 1b. The sidewall portions 1b extend inward in the tire radial direction B from both ends of the tread portion 1a in the tire width direction A. The sidewall portion 1b includes a pair of sidewall portions 1b1 extending inward in the tire radial direction B from both ends of the tread portion 1a in the tire width direction A, and a pair of bead portions 1b2. The sidewall portions 1b1 extend inward in the tire radial direction B from both ends of the tread portion 1a in the tire width direction A, and the bead portions 1b2 are located at the inner ends of the sidewall portions 1b1 in the tire radial direction B. The tire 1 in this embodiment is a tubeless radial passenger car tire. Here, the "tread portion 1a" refers to the portion sandwiched between the tread ends TE on both sides in the tire width direction A. The "bead portion 1b2" refers to the portion in the tire radial direction B where the bead member 3, described below, is located. The "sidewall portion 1b1" refers to the portion between the tread portion 1a and the bead portion 1b2. The "tread end TE" refers to the outermost position of the contact patch in the tire width direction when the tire is mounted on the applicable rim, filled to the specified internal pressure, and subjected to maximum load.

[0035] The tire outer surface is composed of a surface 31 and a surface 32. Surface 31 is located on the outside of the tread portion 1a in the tire radial direction B as the outer surface of the tread portion 1a (hereinafter referred to as the "tread outer surface 31"). Surface 32 is located on the outside of the sidewall portion 1b in the tire width direction A as the outer surface of the sidewall portion 1b (hereinafter referred to as the "sidewall outer surface 32"). The sidewall outer surface 32 includes a surface 32a located on the outside of the sidewall portion 1b1 in the tire width direction A (hereinafter referred to as the "sidewall outer surface 32a") and a surface 32b located on the outside of the bead portion 1b2 in the tire width direction A (hereinafter referred to as the "bead outer surface 32b").

[0036] The tire 1 includes a bead member 3 , a carcass 4 , a belt 6 , a tread rubber 7 , a sidewall rubber 8 , and an inner liner 9 .

[0037] [Bead member 3]

[0038] The bead member 3 is embedded in the bead portion 1b2. The bead member 3 includes a bead core 3a and a rubber bead filler 3b. The rubber bead filler 3b is located outside the bead core 3a in the tire radial direction B. The bead core 3a includes a plurality of rubber-coated bead wires. For example, the bead wires may be steel cords. For example, the steel cords may be monofilament steel or twisted yarns.

[0039] [Carcass 4]

[0040] The carcass 4 extends annularly to span between the pair of bead portions 1 b 2 , more specifically, between the bead cores 3 a of the pair of bead members 3 .

[0041] The carcass 4 is composed of one or more layers (one layer in the present embodiment) of carcass plies having carcass cords arranged at an angle of, for example, 75° to 90° relative to the tire circumferential direction C (see FIG. Figure 1 The carcass ply includes a ply main body 4a positioned between the pair of bead cores 3a and a ply folded portion 4b. The ply main body 4a is connected to both ends of the ply main body 4a and is formed so as to fold around the bead core 3a from the inside in the tire width direction A to the outside. In this embodiment, a bead filler 3b, which tapers gradually from the bead core 3a toward the outside in the tire radial direction B, is arranged between the ply main body 4a and the ply folded portion 4b. For example, the carcass cord of the carcass ply may be a metal cord such as a steel cord or an organic fiber cord made of polyester, nylon, rayon, aramid, or the like. The number of carcass plies may also be two or more.

[0042] [Belt 6]

[0043] The belt 6 includes one or more belt layers (two layers in this embodiment) arranged on the outer side of the crown portion of the carcass 4 in the tire radial direction B. Each belt layer of the belt 6 in this embodiment includes a belt cord coated with rubber. Each belt layer can be an inclined belt layer or a circumferential belt layer. The inclined belt layer is composed of a plurality of belt layers with respect to the tire circumferential direction C (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 1 ) is composed of a belt ply of belt cords arranged at an angle greater than 10° and equal to or less than 40°. In addition, the circumferential belt layer is composed of a belt layer including belt cords arranged along the tire circumferential direction C (see Figure 1 The belt 6 is composed of a belt ply of belt cords arranged at an angle of 10° or less, preferably 5° or less, relative to the tire circumferential direction C. The belt cords of each belt layer may be, for example, metal cords such as steel cords or organic fiber cords made of polyester, nylon, rayon, aramid, or the like. Although the belt 6 in the present embodiment is composed of two belt layers, the belt 6 may be a single layer or may include three or more belt layers.

[0044] [Tread rubber 7 and sidewall rubber 8]

[0045] The tread rubber 7 forms a tread outer surface 31. In this embodiment, a tread pattern is formed on the tread outer surface 31, and the tread pattern includes a plurality of treads along the tire circumferential direction C (see FIG. Figure 1The sidewall rubber 8 forms the sidewall outer surface 32 of the sidewall portion 1b. In addition, the sidewall rubber 8 is connected to the outer end of the tread rubber 7 in the tire width direction A.

[0046] [lining 9]

[0047] The inner liner 9 is formed on the inner surface of the carcass 4. For example, the inner liner 9 can be formed of a low-air-permeable butadiene rubber. Butadiene rubber refers to butyl rubber and its derivatives such as halogenated butyl rubber.

[0048] Next, other features of the tire 1 will be described.

[0049] Figure 2 : is a side view of the tire 1 in the above-mentioned reference state. Specifically, Figure 2 It is a front view of the outer side in the tire width direction A of the sidewall portion 1 b of the tire 1 in a reference state. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of a portion of the tire in FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a marking 10 including text, symbols, graphics, or patterns is formed on the sidewall outer surface 32 of the tire 1. In this embodiment, the marking 10 is formed on the sidewall outer surface 32a of the sidewall outer surface 32, but the marking 10 can be formed at another location on the tire outer surface. However, considering external visibility and durability, the marking 10 is preferably applied to the sidewall outer surface 32.

[0050] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the mark 10 includes a plurality of mark elements 11 formed at different positions in the tire circumferential direction C of the sidewall outer surface 32 of the tire outer surface.

[0051] Specifically, the mark 10 in this embodiment is a text mark consisting of only the seven letters "ABCDEFG." In other words, the mark 10 in this embodiment includes the seven letters "A" to "G" as a plurality of marking elements 11. In addition to or in place of the letters in this embodiment, the mark may include graphics, barcodes, other symbols, and / or patterns.

[0052] The letters "A" to "G" of the plurality of marking elements 11 as the markings 10 in the present embodiment are formed at different positions in the tire circumferential direction C of the sidewall outer surface 32. More specifically, the letters "A" to "G" of the plurality of marking elements 11 as the markings 10 in the present embodiment are formed at spaced positions in the tire circumferential direction C. The protrusions 50 (see Figure 4) is arranged in the entire area of the first area X1, which is the location of each marking element 11 of the mark 10 in this embodiment. In addition, a plurality of ridges 26 as a kind of convex portion (see Figure 4 ) Each marking element 11 adjacent to the marking 10 in this embodiment is arranged in parallel within the entire area of the second area X2. Figures 4 to 7 ).

[0053] In addition to the first region X1, the second region X2 in this embodiment is also adjacent to a third region X3 formed by a flat, smooth surface. Specifically, the first region X1 in this embodiment is surrounded by the second region X2. The second region X2 is then surrounded by the third region X3, which is a flat surface. In other words, the second region X2 in this embodiment is adjacent to the first region X1 on the inside and to the third region X3 on the outside. A flat surface refers to a surface without uneven surfaces. A flat surface can be flat or curved. The surface roughness of a flat surface is preferably 1 to 15 Rz (Rt).

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, on the sidewall outer surface 32 in this embodiment, across the tire center axis O (see Figure 2 ) Two marks 10 are provided at opposite positions in the tire radial direction B. In this embodiment, the separated second area X2 is arranged at the positions of the two marks 10 on the sidewall outer surface 32, but the second area X2 may be connected to form a ring. Other marks may also be formed on the sidewall outer surface 32 by embossing or printing.

[0055] Next, details of the first region X1 and the second region X2 will be described. Figure 4 The right side is as Figure 3 Part of the letter "D" of the marking element 11 in Figure 3 An enlarged view of the vicinity of the dotted rectangular box). Figure 4 The left side is Figure 4 The portion of the letter "D" in the right figure (in Figure 4 A further enlarged view of the dotted rectangle on the right side of the image. Figure 4 As shown, the first region X1 where the letter "D" as the marking element 11 is located has a convex portion 50 arranged throughout the entire region of the first region X1 (see FIG. Figure 4 ) to form a concave and convex surface. Figure 4 As shown, the second region X2 where the letter "D" is located includes a plurality of ridges 26 arranged in parallel over the entire area of the second region X2 (see FIG. Figure 4 ) formed by the concave and convex surface. The letter "D" and its surroundings as the marking element 11 are Figure 4, but the first area X1 where other letters are located and the surrounding second area X2 have the same structure, so they are not described here.

[0056] The first area X1 includes a base 12 and a convex portion 50 protruding from the base 12. The convex portion 50 in the present embodiment includes a unit pattern of a predetermined shape that is repeatedly configured. The unit pattern in the present embodiment is repeatedly configured at predetermined intervals. By using the unit pattern, the entire first area X1 can be easily filled regardless of the area of the first area X1. Specifically, the convex portion 50 in the present embodiment includes two unit patterns, namely the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14. The convex portion 50 in the present embodiment also includes a connecting portion 60 connecting the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14. As described in detail below, each of the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 in the present embodiment is constructed as an asterisk, and the asterisk includes six extensions extending in different directions from a relay point in a plan view. In addition, as described in detail below, a portion of the extensions of the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 in the present embodiment is connected to each other via the connecting portion 60.

[0057] The base portion 12 forms a reference plane for each marking element 11. The first unit pattern 13, the second unit pattern 14, and the connecting portion 60 protrude from the base portion 12 serving as a reference.

[0058] The first unit pattern 13 includes an extension portion 16 that protrudes from the base 12 and extends in multiple directions from the relay point 15 in a plan view. Specifically, the first unit pattern 13 in this embodiment is composed of the above-mentioned asterisk protrusions. The asterisk protrusions serving as the first unit pattern 13 in this embodiment include extension portions 16 that have the same shape and extend linearly in different directions from the center point O1 serving as the relay point 15. More specifically, the asterisk protrusions serving as the first unit pattern 13 in this embodiment include a first extension portion 16a, a second extension portion 16b, a third extension portion 16c, a fourth extension portion 16d, a fifth extension portion 16e, and a sixth extension portion 16f, which serve as six extension portions 16 extending in different directions from the center point O1 serving as the relay point 15. Hereinafter, when no distinction is made between the six extension portions 16, they will be simply referred to as "extension portions 16."

[0059] like Figure 4 As shown, the first extension portion 16a and the second extension portion 16b extend in opposite directions from the center point O1 serving as the relay point 15, and the first extension portion 16a and the second extension portion 16b are formed into a shape extending continuously in a straight line. For convenience, the first extension portion 16a and the second extension portion 16b are collectively referred to as the "first straight portion 17a" below.

[0060] like Figure 4As shown, the third extension portion 16c and the fourth extension portion 16d extend in opposite directions from the center point O1 serving as the relay point 15, and the third extension portion 16c and the fourth extension portion 16d are formed into a shape extending continuously in a straight line. For convenience, the third extension portion 16c and the fourth extension portion 16d are collectively referred to as the "second straight portion 17b" below.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown, the fifth extension portion 16e and the sixth extension portion 16f extend in opposite directions from the center point O1 serving as the relay point 15, and the fifth extension portion 16e and the sixth extension portion 16f are formed into a shape extending continuously in a straight line. For convenience, the fifth extension portion 16e and the sixth extension portion 16f are collectively referred to as the "third straight portion 17c" below.

[0062] As described above, the asterisk protrusion as the first unit pattern 13 in the present embodiment is composed of the first straight line portion 17 a , the second straight line portion 17 b , and the third straight line portion 17 c intersecting at the center point O1 as the relay point 15 .

[0063] The six extensions 16 form an angle of 60° between adjacent extensions 16. In other words, the six extensions 16 extend radially from the center point O1 serving as the relay point 15.

[0064] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the first straight portion 17a, the second straight portion 17b, and the third straight portion 17c of the first unit pattern 13 in this embodiment. Specifically, Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view of section II-II. Figure 5 As shown, in the asterisk protrusion serving as the first unit pattern 13, the first straight portion 17a, the second straight portion 17b, and the third straight portion 17c are substantially isosceles triangles with flat tops. Hereinafter, the top of the first straight portion 17a is referred to as "first top 18a," the top of the second straight portion 17b is referred to as "second top 18b," and the top of the third straight portion 17c is referred to as "third top 18c."

[0065] The height from the base 12 to each of the first, second, and third tops 18a, 18b, and 18c (hereinafter referred to as "protrusion height H1") is 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm. More preferably, the protrusion height H1 is set within a range of 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm.

[0066] like Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the asterisk protrusion as the first unit pattern 13 in this embodiment, the base portion 12 between the first straight portion 17a and the second straight portion 17b is flat. Figure 5As shown, the base portion 12 is curved between the second straight portion 17b and the third straight portion 17c. By curving the base portion 12, reflection of incident light is suppressed and the contrast with the outside of the marking element 11 is increased, thereby improving visibility.

[0067] At the first side wall surface 19a forming the hypotenuse of the isosceles triangle of the first straight portion 17a, the second side wall surface 19b forming the hypotenuse of the isosceles triangle of the second straight portion 17b, and the third side wall surface 19c forming the hypotenuse of the isosceles triangle of the third straight portion 17c, in a cross-sectional view orthogonal to the respective extending directions of the first straight portion 17a to the third straight portion 17c (see Figure 5 ), width W1, which is the distance between the sidewall surfaces, widens from the top side toward base 12. First sidewall surface 19a, second sidewall surface 19b, and third sidewall surface 19c form an angle θ1 relative to an imaginary vertical plane F1 of base 12. Angle θ1 is preferably in the range of 5° to 30°, more preferably in the range of 15° to 25°. When angle θ1 is greater than 30°, a larger proportion of reflected light from first to third sidewall surfaces 19a, 19c is reflected outward from between extensions 16, resulting in less improvement in visibility. In other words, light is reflected, and the contrast difference with the exterior of marking element 11 becomes smaller, resulting in less improvement in visibility of marking element 11. On the other hand, when angle θ1 is less than 5°, extensions 16 are more likely to collapse. Therefore, considering the effect of preventing reflected light incident between extensions 16 from being reflected outward from between extensions 16 and the durability of extensions 16, angle θ1 is preferably from 5° to 30°.

[0068] In extension 16, protrusion height H1 is preferably 0.8 to 6 times the maximum width W1max of the base of the isosceles triangle (the distance between the bottoms of the sidewall surfaces at base 12). When protrusion height H1 is less than 0.8 times maximum width W1max, a larger proportion of reflected light from first to third sidewall surfaces 19a, 19c is reflected outward from between extensions 16, resulting in less improvement in visibility. In other words, light is reflected, and the contrast difference with the exterior of marking element 11 becomes smaller, resulting in less improvement in visibility. On the other hand, when protrusion height H1 is greater than 6 times maximum width W1max, first to third sidewall surfaces 19a, 19c reach an angle nearly perpendicular to base 12, making extension 16 more likely to collapse. Therefore, considering the effect of preventing reflected light incident between extensions 16 from being reflected outward from between extensions 16 and the durability of extension 16, protrusion height H1 is preferably 0.8 to 6 times the maximum width W1max, which is the base length.

[0069] The second unit pattern 14 in this embodiment includes an extension 21 that protrudes from the base 12 and extends in multiple directions from the relay point 20 in a plan view. In the second unit pattern 14 in this embodiment, the asterisk protrusion having the same shape and size as the first unit pattern 13 is shown in the tire side view (see FIG. Figures 2 to 4 ) is tilted at a different angle from the asterisk protrusion as the first unit pattern 13. Specifically, as Figure 4 As shown, the asterisk protrusion as the second unit pattern 14 is inclined at an angle obtained by rotating the asterisk protrusion as the first unit pattern 13 by 30° around the center point O1.

[0070] Specifically, in this embodiment, the asterisk protrusion serving as the second unit pattern 14 includes extensions 21 having the same shape and extending linearly in different directions from the center point O2 serving as the relay point 20. More specifically, in this embodiment, the asterisk protrusion serving as the second unit pattern 14 includes six extensions 21, namely, a first extension 21a, a second extension 21b, a third extension 21c, a fourth extension 21d, a fifth extension 21e, and a sixth extension 21f, extending in different directions from the center point O2 serving as the relay point 20. Hereinafter, when no distinction is made between the six extensions 21, they will be referred to simply as "extensions 21."

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown, the first extension portion 21a and the second extension portion 21b extend in opposite directions from the center point O2 serving as the relay point 20, and the first extension portion 21a and the second extension portion 21b are formed into a shape extending continuously in a straight line. For convenience, the first extension portion 21a and the second extension portion 21b are hereinafter collectively referred to as the "first straight portion 22a."

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, the third extension portion 21c and the fourth extension portion 21d extend in opposite directions from the center point O2 serving as the relay point 20, and the third extension portion 21c and the fourth extension portion 21d are formed into a shape extending continuously in a straight line. For convenience, the third extension portion 21c and the fourth extension portion 21d are hereinafter collectively referred to as the "second straight portion 22b."

[0073] like Figure 4 As shown, the fifth extension portion 21e and the sixth extension portion 21f extend in opposite directions from the center point O2 serving as the relay point 20, and the fifth extension portion 21e and the sixth extension portion 21f are formed into a shape extending continuously in a straight line. For convenience, the fifth extension portion 21e and the sixth extension portion 21f are hereinafter collectively referred to as the "third straight portion 22c."

[0074] As described above, in the present embodiment, the asterisk protrusion serving as the second unit pattern 14 is composed of the first straight portion 22 a , the second straight portion 22 b , and the third straight portion 22 c intersecting at the center point O2 serving as the relay point 20 .

[0075] The six extensions 21 form an angle of 60° between adjacent extensions 21. In other words, the six extensions 21 extend radially from the center point O2 serving as the relay point 20.

[0076] Figure 6 : is a diagram showing a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the first straight portion 22a, the second straight portion 22b, and the third straight portion 22c of the second unit pattern 14 in this embodiment. Specifically, Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view of section III-III. Figure 6 As shown, in the asterisk protrusion serving as the second unit pattern 14, the first straight portion 22a, the second straight portion 22b, and the third straight portion 22c are substantially isosceles triangles with flat tops. Hereinafter, the top of the first straight portion 22a is referred to as "first top 23a," the top of the second straight portion 22b is referred to as "second top 23b," and the top of the third straight portion 22c is referred to as "third top 23c."

[0077] Similar to the protrusion height H1 in the first unit pattern 13, the protrusion height H1, which is the height from the base 12 to each of the first top 23a, the second top 23b, and the third top 23c, is 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm inclusive. More preferably, the protrusion height H1 is set within a range of 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm inclusive.

[0078] like Figure 6 As shown, in the asterisk protrusion as the second unit pattern 14 in this embodiment, the base 12 between the first straight line portion 22a and the second straight line portion 22b is flat. Figure 6 As shown, the base portion 12 is curved between the second straight portion 22b and the third straight portion 22c. By curving the base portion 12, reflection of incident light is suppressed and the contrast with the outside of the marking element 11 is increased, thereby improving visibility.

[0079] The first side wall surface 24a forming the hypotenuse of the isosceles triangle of the first straight portion 22a, the second side wall surface 24b forming the hypotenuse of the isosceles triangle of the second straight portion 22b, and the third side wall surface 24c forming the hypotenuse of the isosceles triangle of the third straight portion 22c are configured so that the width W1 as the distance between the side wall surfaces is perpendicular to the respective extending directions of the first straight portion 22a to the third straight portion 22c (see FIG. Figure 6) becomes wider from the top side toward the base 12. The first side wall surface 24a, the second side wall surface 24b, and the third side wall surface 24c form an angle θ1 with respect to the imaginary vertical plane F1 of the base 12. For the same reason as the angle θ1 in the first unit pattern 13, the angle θ1 is preferably in the range of 5° to 30°, more preferably in the range of 15° to 25°.

[0080] For the same reason as the protrusion height H1 in the first unit pattern 13 , in the extension 21 , the protrusion height H1 is preferably 0.8 to 6 times the maximum width W1max at the base of the isosceles triangle (the distance between the side wall bottoms at the base 12 ).

[0081] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 are arranged so as to fill the entire first region X1 where the marking element 11 is located.

[0082] Specifically, for each marking element 11 in this embodiment, a plurality of first unit patterns 13 are arranged along the tire radial direction B (at an angle of 10° or less relative to the tire radial direction B). For each marking element 11 in this embodiment, a plurality of second unit patterns 14 are also arranged along the tire radial direction B (at an angle of 10° or less relative to the tire radial direction B).

[0083] In this embodiment, a plurality of first unit patterns 13 are arranged for each marking element 11 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the tire radial direction B. A plurality of second unit patterns 14 are also arranged for each marking element 11 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the tire radial direction B.

[0084] By regularly arranging the first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 in a predetermined direction, the arrangement of the first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 can be simplified even if the first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 are not anisotropic. The configuration of this embodiment is not restrictive, and when using non-anisotropic unit patterns, it is preferable to use a repeating pattern formed by regularly arranging unit patterns. In this way, even when using non-anisotropic unit patterns, a large area can be easily filled with the unit patterns.

[0085] like Figure 4As shown on the left side of FIG, the tip of the first extension portion 16a, which is the asterisk protrusion of the first unit pattern 13, is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the third extension portion 21c and the fifth extension portion 21e, which are the asterisk protrusions of the adjacent second unit pattern 14. The tip of the second extension portion 16b, which is the asterisk protrusion of the first unit pattern 13, is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the fourth extension portion 21d and the sixth extension portion 21f, which are the asterisk protrusions of the adjacent second unit pattern 14.

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown on the left side of FIG, the distal end of the first extension portion 21a, which is the asterisk protrusion of the second unit pattern 14, is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the fourth extension portion 16d and the sixth extension portion 16f, which are the asterisk protrusions of the adjacent first unit pattern 13. Furthermore, the distal end of the second extension portion 21b, which is the asterisk protrusion of the second unit pattern 14, is positioned so as to be sandwiched between the third extension portion 16c and the fifth extension portion 16e, which are the asterisk protrusions of the adjacent first unit pattern 13.

[0087] In the adjacent first and second unit patterns 13 and 14, the spacing between the center point O1 of the intermediate point 15 and the center point O2 of the intermediate point 20 (hereinafter referred to as "spacing P") is 0.2 mm or greater and 3.0 mm or less. In the first unit pattern 13, the length from the end of the first extension 16a to the end of the second extension 16b, the length from the end of the third extension 16c to the end of the fourth extension 16d, and the length from the end of the fifth extension 16e to the end of the sixth extension 16f are equal and represent the longest length of the first unit pattern 13 in a side view of the tire. This length is hereinafter referred to as "straight extension length L." Straight extension length L is set to be longer than spacing P.

[0088] The length from the end of the first extension portion 21a to the end of the second extension portion 21b, the length from the end of the third extension portion 21c to the end of the fourth extension portion 21d, and the length from the end of the fifth extension portion 21e to the end of the sixth extension portion 21f are the longest lengths of the second unit pattern 14 in the side view of the tire, and are the same as the straight extension length L of the first unit pattern 13.

[0089] If the above-mentioned interval P is less than 0.2 mm, the length of the extensions 16 and 21 becomes short, making it difficult to ensure the formability of the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 during manufacturing. On the other hand, if the interval P exceeds 3.0 mm, the influence of the reflected light at the base 12 becomes significant, making it difficult for the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 to contrast with the surrounding area. The first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 are densely arranged so that the influence of the reflected light on the base 12 is reduced, and the interval P is 1.0 mm or less, preferably 0.8 mm or less. In this way, the reflected light from the base 12 can be further reduced, making the marking element 11 appear darker and increasing the contrast of the marking element 11 to its surroundings, thereby improving the visibility of the marking element 11. However, the adjacent first unit patterns 13 and the second unit patterns 14 are arranged at a distance from each other in the portion not connected by the connecting portion 60 described below, rather than being continuous.

[0090] While the marking element 11 in this embodiment includes a first unit pattern 13 and a second unit pattern 14, the marking element 11 can also be configured with a plurality of unit patterns of a single type formed on the base 12. However, in order to reduce the area of the base 12, as in this embodiment, using multiple types of unit patterns makes it easier to densely arrange the unit patterns. This makes it easier to achieve a more visible marking element 11.

[0091] Although each of the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 in this embodiment is composed of asterisk protrusions, the number of extensions extending from the relay point in different directions is not limited to six. Although three or more is preferred, two or more is sufficient. Providing multiple extensions facilitates the dense arrangement of the unit patterns, thereby reducing the area of the base 12.

[0092] The connecting portion 60 in this embodiment connects adjacent first and second unit patterns 13 and 14. In this embodiment, any first unit pattern 13 is connected to at least one adjacent second unit pattern 14 via the connecting portion 60. More specifically, in this embodiment, the sixth extension portion 16f of any first unit pattern 13 is connected to the fifth extension portion 21e of the adjacent second unit pattern 14 via the connecting portion 60. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the third extension portion 16c of any first unit pattern 13 is connected to the fourth extension portion 21d of the adjacent second unit pattern 14 via the connecting portion 60. However, the extension portion 16 of the first unit pattern 13 and the extension portion 21 of the second unit pattern 14 connected by the connecting portion 60 are not limited to the configuration of this embodiment; other extension portions 16 and 21 may be connected to each other.

[0093] The connecting portion 60 in this embodiment has a straight configuration formed by extending one extension portion 16 of the first unit pattern 13 or one extension portion 21 of the second unit pattern 14. However, the connecting portion 60 may have a bent configuration formed by extending and connecting one extension portion 16 of the first unit pattern 13 and one extension portion 21 of the second unit pattern 14, and bent at a predetermined angle, such as 90°. For example, the connecting portion 60 is not limited to a straight or bent shape, but may also be configured to be curved in an arc shape.

[0094] The plurality of first unit patterns 13 arranged along the tire radial direction B are continuous via the connecting portion 60 and the second unit patterns 14 connected by the connecting portion 60. In other words, the plurality of second unit patterns 14 arranged along the tire radial direction B are continuous via the connecting portion 60 and the first unit patterns 13 connected by the connecting portion 60. That is, the first unit patterns 13 and the second unit patterns 14 are connected by the connecting portion 60 to form a zigzag shape in the tire radial direction B. The first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 are continuous from one end on the inner side of the tire radial direction B to the other end on the outer side.

[0095] By providing the connection portion 60 , the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 are connected, the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 can support each other, the collapse of each of the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 can be suppressed, and the durability of each unit pattern can be improved.

[0096] Furthermore, by connecting the first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 in a straight line (in the tire radial direction B in this embodiment), as with the connecting portion 60 in this embodiment, rubber fluidity can be improved during the vulcanization molding of the tire 1 using the mold, compared to a configuration in which adjacent first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 are connected in different directions (without a portion connected in a straight line) via connecting portions at irregular positions. In other words, the connecting grooves on the inner surface of the mold, which correspond to the shapes of the first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 and the connecting portion 60, allow air to escape to the exterior of the marking element 11 during vulcanization molding. Consequently, air tends not to accumulate in the mold during vulcanization molding, which improves rubber fluidity and reduces the occurrence of defective products.

[0097] Furthermore, in each marking element 11 of this embodiment, adjacent first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 are regularly connected in a predetermined direction by connecting portions 60, making it difficult for the black shade within each marking element 11 to vary, resulting in each marking element 11 appearing unevenly black. However, for visibility purposes only, the protrusion 50 does not need to include the connecting portion 60. In other words, for visibility purposes, adjacent first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 can be spaced apart. To achieve both visibility and the aforementioned rubber fluidity, adjacent first and second unit patterns 13 and 14 are preferably regularly connected in a predetermined direction by the connecting portion 60.

[0098] In this embodiment, the plurality of first unit patterns 13 arranged in a direction substantially orthogonal to the tire radial direction B are not continuous via the connecting portion 60 or the second unit patterns 14 connected by the connecting portion 60. The plurality of second unit patterns 14 arranged in a direction substantially orthogonal to the tire radial direction B are not continuous via the connecting portion 60 or the first unit patterns 13 connected by the connecting portion 60. This improves air flow during vulcanization molding, allowing air to escape more efficiently to the outside of each marking element 11. As a result, rubber fluidity during vulcanization molding can be further improved, further suppressing the occurrence of defective products.

[0099] Next, the details of the second area X2 around the marking element 11 are described. In the second area X2, a plurality of ridges 26 are arranged in parallel throughout the second area X2. Specifically, Figure 4 As shown on the right side of FIG, the second region X2 includes a base 25 and a plurality of ridges 26 protruding from the base 25. Although each ridge 26 in this configuration extends in a straight line, the ridges 26 may be configured to extend in a curved line (see FIG. Figure 8 Therefore, by configuring the second region X2 with multiple ridges 26, the second region X2 can appear brighter at a predetermined viewing angle and a predetermined lighting angle compared to a flat surface. This can enhance the contrast with the first region X1 where the marking element 11 is located. In other words, the visibility of the marking element 11 can be further enhanced.

[0100] In addition, the multiple ridges 26 in this embodiment extend in parallel. In other words, in this embodiment, regardless of the position around the letters "A" to "G" as the marking elements 11, the ridges 26 extend in the same direction. In this way, regardless of the placement of the marking elements 11, the light reflection in the second area X2 can be made uniform. In other words, even if the marking elements 11 are spaced apart, the light reflection in the second area X2 around each marking element 11 can be made uniform. Therefore, changes in the visibility of the multiple spaced-apart marking elements 11 can be prevented. In other words, by extending the multiple ridges 26 in the second area X2 in parallel, changes in the visibility between the multiple spaced-apart first areas X1 can be suppressed.

[0101] Figure 7 : is a diagram showing a cross section orthogonal to the extending direction of the first straight portion 22a of the second unit pattern 14 in the first region X1 and the ridge 26 in the second region X2. Specifically, Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view of section II. Figure 7 As shown, in the asterisk protrusion as the second unit pattern 14, as described above, the first top portion 23a of the first straight portion 22a is formed by a flat top portion (see Figure 6 ). In contrast, the cross-sectional shape of the ridge 26 in the cross section perpendicular to the extension direction is substantially an isosceles triangle, and the top 27 of the ridge 26 is pointed. Figure 7 As shown, the protrusion height H1 of the convex portion 50 in the first region X1 is higher than the protrusion height H2 of the ridge 26 in the second region X2. In this way, the first region X1 can appear darker, present a sharper contrast with the second region X2, and the visibility of the first region X1 can be improved. Figure 7 As shown, the maximum width W2max, which is the base length of the ridge 26, is longer than the maximum width W1max of the first straight portion 22a. While the top 27 of the ridge 26 in this embodiment is formed as a pointed top, this configuration is not limiting. Alternatively, the top 27 of the ridge 26 may be flat.

[0102] In a cross-sectional view orthogonal to the extending direction of the ridge 26 (see Figure 7), at the sidewall surfaces 28 of the ridges 26, the width W2, which is the distance between the sidewall surfaces 28, widens from the top 27 side toward the base 25. The sidewall surfaces 28 form an angle θ2 with respect to the imaginary vertical plane F2 of the base 25. The angle θ2 is preferably set within a range greater than 30° and equal to or less than 75°, more preferably within a range greater than 30° and equal to or less than 60°. When the angle θ2 is 30° or less, a smaller portion of the reflected light at the sidewall surfaces 28 returns outward from between the ridges 26. In other words, the light tends to be less reflected, and the contrast difference with the first area X1 where the marking element 11 is located becomes smaller, resulting in less improvement in the visibility of the marking element 11. On the other hand, when the angle θ2 is greater than 75°, the ridges 26 approach a flat surface, resulting in a less bright appearance even at a predetermined viewing angle and predetermined lighting angle. Therefore, in order to make the reflected light incident between the ridges 26 more easily return outward from between the ridges 26 and achieve a particularly bright appearance at a predetermined viewing angle and a predetermined illumination angle, the angle θ2 is preferably greater than 30° and equal to or less than 75°.

[0103] Next, the relationship between the first region X1 and the second region X2 is described. The relationship between the first region X1 and the second region X2 is such that the minimum spacing distance D1 between the tops 50a of the convex portions 50 in the first region X1 is smaller than the minimum spacing distance between the tops 27 of two adjacent ridges 26 in the second region X2.

[0104] As described above, the convex portion 50 of the first region X1 in this embodiment includes the first unit pattern 13, the second unit pattern 14, and the connecting portion 60. Here, the minimum spacing distance D1 between the tops 50a of the convex portion 50 in the first region X1 in this embodiment is 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm. Specifically, in the convex portion 50 of this embodiment, the minimum spacing distance D1 is achieved at the following position: at this position, the extension of one of the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14 passes between the two extensions of the other unit pattern. Figure 4 As shown on the left side of FIG, an example of the minimum spacing distance D1 in this embodiment is the distance between the top of the first extension portion 16a at the end of the first unit pattern 13 and the top of the third extension portion 21c of the second unit pattern 14. The top of the first extension portion 16a at the end of the first unit pattern 13 in this embodiment is a portion of the flat first top portion 18a of the first straight portion 17a, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 The top of the third extension portion 21c of the second unit pattern 14 is a portion of the flat second top portion 23b of the second straight portion 22b, as shown in FIG. Figure 6As shown. Thus, it is sufficient that the minimum spacing distance D1 between the flat tops is the distance between the closest points of the tops. Although the top 50a of the protrusion 50 has a flat configuration in this embodiment, the top 50a may also have a pointed configuration, such as a ridge formed by intersecting surfaces.

[0105] In this embodiment, the minimum spacing distance D2 between the tops 27 of two adjacent ridges 26 in the second region X2 is greater than 0.5 mm and equal to or less than 1.5 mm. In this embodiment, the tops 27 of the ridges 26 are pointed and uneven, but the tops 27 may be flat. If the tops 27 of the ridges 26 are flat, it is sufficient that the minimum spacing distance D2 is the distance between the closest points of the tops.

[0106] In this way, the minimum spacing distance D1 between the tops 50a of the protrusions 50 in the first region X1 is smaller than the minimum spacing distance D2 between the tops 27 of two adjacent ridges 26 in the second region X2. This configuration can reduce light reflection in the first region X1 compared to the second region X2. As a result, the first region X1 appears darker than the second region X2. In contrast, in the second region X2, multiple ridges 26 are arranged side by side. Therefore, the second region X2 appears brighter at a predetermined viewing angle and predetermined illumination angle than if the second region X2 were a flat surface. This enhances the light contrast between the adjacent first and second regions X1, X2, at the predetermined viewing angle and predetermined illumination angle, improving the visibility of one of the first and second regions X1, X2 relative to the other. This can improve the visibility of a specific area on the tire's outer surface. In other words, in this embodiment, the external visibility of the marking element 11 formed by the first region X1 can be enhanced.

[0107] In addition, if Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the minimum separation distance D3 is less than the minimum distance D2 between the tops 27 of two ridges 26 in the second region X2. The minimum separation distance D3 in this embodiment refers to the minimum separation distance from the standard position SP to the top of the unit pattern adjacent to the standard unit pattern SU. The standard unit pattern SU refers to any unit pattern in the first region X1 (in this embodiment, the first unit pattern 13 or the second unit pattern 14), and the standard position SP refers to any position on the top of the standard unit pattern SU. The minimum separation distance D3 in this embodiment is 0.5 mm or less. Figure 4 An example of the minimum separation distance D3 is shown on the left side of FIG. In the case where the top is flat, it is sufficient that the above-mentioned minimum separation distance D3 is the distance between the closest points of the top.

[0108] Thus, by configuring the minimum spacing distance D3 in the first region X1 to be smaller than the minimum spacing distance D2 in the second region X2, the density of the protrusions 50 in the first region X1 can be increased compared to the density of the ridges 26 in the second region X2. This can reduce the area of the base 12 of the first region X1 and the amount of light reflected from the base 12 of the first region X1. Consequently, the first region X1 can appear darker, further enhancing the light contrast between the adjacent first and second regions X1 and X2. In other words, the visibility of one region X1 relative to the other can be further enhanced.

[0109] In other words, per unit area, the sum of the extending lengths of the tops 50a of the convex portions 50 in the first region X1 is longer than the sum of the extending lengths of the tops 27 of the ridges 26 in the second region X2. The sum of the extending lengths of the tops 50a of the convex portions 50 in the first region X1 per unit area in this embodiment is the sum of the extending lengths from the first apex 18a to the third apex 18c of the first unit pattern 13, the sum of the extending lengths from the first apex 23a to the third apex 23c of the second unit pattern 14, and the extending length of the connecting portion 60. The sum of the extending lengths of the tops 27 of the ridges 26 in the second unit pattern 14 per unit area in this embodiment is the sum of the extending lengths of the tops 27 of each ridge 26. Thus, the convex portions 50 in the first region X1 are arranged more densely than the ridges 26 in the second region X2. This can reduce the area of the base portion 12 of the first region X1 and reduce the amount of light reflected at the base portion 12 of the first region X1. The unit area used to compare the total extension length is not particularly limiting, but may be an area wide enough to include the tops 27 of the plurality of ridges 26, such as a 5 mm square or a 10 mm square.

[0110] In addition, the maximum width of the base of the extensions 16, 21 in the first region X1 in the present embodiment is smaller than the minimum width of the base of the ridge 26 in the second region X2. In other words, the extensions 16, 21 in the present embodiment are narrower than the ridge 26. With this construction, the first region X1 can be easily filled with unit patterns (in the present embodiment, the first unit pattern 13 and the second unit pattern 14), and the area of the base 12 can be reduced. Regardless of the position in the extension direction, the base of the extensions 16, 21 in the present embodiment has a substantially constant width. Regardless of the position in the extension direction, the base of the ridge 26 in the present embodiment also has a substantially constant width. In other words, the maximum width of the base of the extensions 16, 21 in the present embodiment is as follows Figure 7 The "maximum width W1max" shown in FIG. 1 is the minimum width of the base of the ridge 26 in the second region X2 in this embodiment. Figure 7The "maximum width W2max" is shown.

[0111] In addition, if Figure 4 As shown on the left side of FIG, in the plan view of the first area X1, the maximum straight length M of the base 12 is preferably smaller than the minimum spacing distance D2 of the second area X2. This can further reduce the light reflected at the base 12 of the first area X1.

[0112] Thus, the protrusions 50 in the first region X1 are arranged more densely than the ridges 26 in the second region X2, making the first region X1 more resistant to cracking than the second region X2. Therefore, even if cracks develop along the ridges 26 in the second region X2, the first region X1 can suppress the crack's progress. In particular, in this embodiment, the protrusions 50 arranged in the first region X1 are composed of non-anisotropic first and second unit patterns 13 and 14. Therefore, regardless of the direction in which the ridges 26 extend, the first region X1 in this embodiment can suppress the crack's progress along the direction in which the ridges 26 extend in the second region X2.

[0113] In this embodiment, the marking element 11 is located in the first area X1, and the position adjacent to the marking element 11 is the second area X2, but this configuration is not restrictive. In other words, it is sufficient for the first area X1 and the second area X2 to be arranged adjacent to each other. The positions of the first area X1 and the second area X2 on the tire outer surface, as well as the types of display represented by the first area X1 and the second area X2, are not particularly restrictive.

[0114] However, if a first region X1 and a second region X2 are provided on the sidewall outer surface 32, as in the present embodiment, the first region X1 preferably abuts the second region X2 on at least two sides in the tire circumferential direction C. This enhances the visibility of the first region X1 sandwiched between the second region X2 in the tire circumferential direction C. If, as in the present embodiment, the first region X1 comprises a plurality of marking elements 11 spaced apart in the tire circumferential direction C, the second region X2 is particularly preferably provided on both sides of each first region X1 representing a single marking element 11 in the tire circumferential direction C. This improves the visibility of each marking element 11, thereby enhancing the visibility of the marking 10 as a whole.

[0115] Furthermore, when the first region X1 and the second region X2 are provided on the sidewall outer surface 32 as in the present embodiment, the second region X2 is preferably adjacent to at least one side of the first region X1 in the tire radial direction B, in addition to both sides of the first region X1 in the tire circumferential direction C. This further enhances the visibility of the first region X1.

[0116] In addition, as in the present embodiment, the first area X1 is preferably surrounded by the second area X2, and the first area X1 is preferably adjacent to the second area X2 over the entire periphery of the first area X1. In this way, the visibility of the first area X1 can be even further enhanced.

[0117] The tire according to the present disclosure is not limited to the specific configurations described in the above embodiments. Various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the claims. In the above embodiments, the protrusion 50 of the first region X1 includes the first unit pattern 13, the second unit pattern 14, and the connecting portion 60, but this configuration is not restrictive. Figure 8 FIG. 5 shows a modified example of the convex portion 50 of the first region X1 and the ridge 26 of the second region X2. Figure 8 As shown, the convex portion 50 of the first region X1 may be composed of a plurality of ridges 51. Figure 8 The cross-sectional shape in the direction of extension of the ridge 51 shown is an isosceles triangle, and the top 52 is pointed, but the top may be flat. In the above embodiment, the ridge 26 of the second region X2 is configured to extend in a straight line, but this configuration is not restrictive. Figure 8 As shown, the ridges 26 of the second region X2 may extend in a curved line.

[0118] Figure 9 A modified example of the second area X2 is shown. Figure 9 The structure of the first area X1 and the third area X3 shown is the same as Figures 1 to 7 The above embodiments are the same as those shown in the previous embodiment. Therefore, the description is omitted here.

[0119] As in the above embodiment, Figure 9 The second region X2 shown includes a concavo-convex surface formed by a plurality of ridges 26 arranged side by side over the entire area of the second region X2. Figure 9 The illustrated second region X2 differs from the second region X2 of the above-described embodiment in that it includes a plurality of types of segmented regions having different spacing distances between two adjacent ridges 26 .

[0120] Specifically, Figure 9 The second region X2 shown includes two types of segment regions X2a and X2b as multiple types of segment regions. For ease of explanation, the two types of segment regions X2a and X2b are distinguished below by being referred to as "first segment region X2a" and "second segment region X2b". Figure 9 The second area X2 shown includes a plurality of first segmented areas X2a and a plurality of second segmented areas X2b arranged adjacent to each other. More specifically, Figure 9 The second area X2 shown is filled with a plurality of first segmented areas X2a and a plurality of second segmented areas X2b.

[0121] The first segmented area X2a has a plurality of first ridges 26a arranged in parallel. The second segmented area X2b has a plurality of second ridges 26b arranged in parallel. Figure 9 As shown, the first ridge 26a and the second ridge 26b extend substantially parallel.

[0122] The minimum spacing distance D2a between the tops of two adjacent first ridges 26a in the first segmented region X2a is smaller than the minimum spacing distance D2b between the tops of two adjacent second ridges 26b in the second segmented region X2b. Figure 9 In the example shown, the first ridge 26a and the second ridge 26b extend in a straight line. Figure 9 In the example shown, the plurality of first ridges 26a in the first segment region X2a are arranged at equal intervals. Figure 9 In the example shown, the plurality of second ridges 26b in the second segmented region X2b are also arranged at equal intervals. Therefore, the minimum spacing distance D2a is the spacing distance between the tops of two adjacent first ridges 26a in a cross section perpendicular to the direction in which the first ridges 26a extend, and is the pitch of the array of first ridges 26a. Furthermore, the minimum spacing distance D2b is the spacing distance between the tops of two adjacent second ridges 26b in a cross section perpendicular to the direction in which the second ridges 26b extend, and is the pitch of the array of second ridges 26b.

[0123] Thus, the second area X2 may include a plurality of segmented areas (in Figure 9 In the example shown, the first segmented region X2a and the second segmented region X2b have different spacing distances between the ridges 26 of the plurality of segmented regions.

[0124] Figure 9 The second region X2 shown has only two types of segmented regions (a first segmented region X2a and a second segmented region X2b), but may include three or more types of segmented regions.

[0125] also, Figure 9 The shapes and sizes of the outer edge contours of the first segmented area X2a and the second segmented area X2b are substantially the same. Specifically, Figure 9 The outer edge contours of the first segmented area X2a and the second segmented area X2b are shown to be substantially rectangular, however, the two longitudinal sides of the rectangular outer edge contour are concavely curved, and the two transverse sides of the rectangular outer edge contour are convexly curved.

[0126] However, the shapes and sizes of the outer edge contours of the first segmented area X2a and the second segmented area X2b may be different. The outer edge contours of the first segmented area X2a and the second segmented area X2b do not necessarily need to be the above-mentioned rectangular shape.

[0127] For example, Figure 9 The minimum spacing distance D2a between two adjacent first ridges 26a in the first segmented area X2a is shown to be 0.6 mm, but is not limited to this length. Figure 9 The minimum spacing distance D2b between two adjacent second ridges 26b in the second segmented area X2b is shown to be 1.0 mm, but is not limited to this length. For example, the minimum spacing distance D2a and the minimum spacing distance D2b can be appropriately set within a range greater than 0.5 mm and less than 1.5 mm.

[0128] The protrusion height of the first ridge 26a in the first segmented region X2a may be equal to or different from the protrusion height of the second ridge 26b in the second segmented region X2b. However, the protrusion heights of both the first ridge 26a and the second ridge 26b are preferably lower than the protrusion height H1 of the first region X1 (see Figures 5 to 7 For example, the protrusion height of both the first ridge 26a and the second ridge 26b may be 0.15 mm.

[0129] A plurality of segmented areas (in the second area X2) may be provided Figure 9 In the example shown, another ridge forms a boundary between the first segment region X2a and the second segment region X2b. In this case, the ridges arranged side by side in each segment region (in Figure 9 In the example shown, the first ridge 26a and the second ridge 26b are higher in height than the ridges forming the boundaries, so that the ridges arranged side by side in each segment region (in Figure 9 In the example shown, the first ridge 26a and the second ridge 26b) form a concavo-convex surface over the entire second region X2. Thus, it is sufficient for the ridges arranged side by side in each segment region to only cross the ridges forming the above-mentioned boundary.

[0130] Figure 10 Shown in Figure 9 The illustrated example shows a boundary ridge 70 provided at the boundary between the first segmented region X2a and the second segmented region X2b of the second region X2. Figure 10 The upper figure in FIG is an enlarged view of a portion of the first segmented area X2 a and the second segmented area X2 b. Figure 10 The following figure is along the Figure 10 Cross-sectional view along line IV-IV in the upper figure. Figure 10 The protrusion height H3 of the illustrated boundary ridge 70 is higher than the protrusion heights H4 and H5 of the first and second ridges 26a and 26b arranged side by side in the first and second segmented regions X2a and X2b.

[0131] Industrial applicability

[0132] The present disclosure relates to a tire.

[0133] Reference Signs List

[0134] 1 tire

[0135] 1a Tread

[0136] 1b Sidewall

[0137] 1b1 Side wall

[0138] 1b2 Bead

[0139] 2 Applicable rims

[0140] 2a Rim seat

[0141] 2b Rim flange

[0142] 3 Bead components

[0143] 3a Bead core

[0144] 3b Bead filler

[0145] 4 Carcass

[0146] 4a Carpet body

[0147] 4b Carpet ply fold

[0148] 6 Belt

[0149] 7. Tread rubber

[0150] 7a Circumferential groove

[0151] 8 Sidewall rubber

[0152] 9 Lining

[0153] 10 Mark

[0154] 11 Marking elements

[0155] 12 Base of the first unit pattern

[0156] 13 First unit pattern (unit pattern)

[0157] 14 Second unit pattern (unit pattern)

[0158] 15 Relay point of the first unit pattern

[0159] 16 Extension of the first unit pattern

[0160] 16a First extension portion of the first unit pattern

[0161] 16b The second extension portion of the first unit pattern

[0162] 16c The third extension portion of the first unit pattern

[0163] 16d Fourth extension of the first unit pattern

[0164] 16e The fifth extension of the first unit pattern

[0165] 16f The sixth extension of the first unit pattern

[0166] 17a First straight line portion of the first unit pattern

[0167] 17b The second straight line portion of the first unit pattern

[0168] 17c The third straight line portion of the first unit pattern

[0169] 18a The first top portion of the first unit pattern

[0170] 18b The second top of the first unit pattern

[0171] 18c The third top of the first unit pattern

[0172] 19a The first sidewall surface of the first unit pattern

[0173] 19b The second sidewall surface of the first unit pattern

[0174] 19c The third sidewall surface of the first unit pattern

[0175] 20 Relay point of the second unit pattern

[0176] 21 Extension of the second unit pattern

[0177] 21a First extension portion of the second unit pattern

[0178] 21b The second extension portion of the second unit pattern

[0179] 21c The third extension of the second unit pattern

[0180] 21d The fourth extension portion of the second unit pattern

[0181] 21e The fifth extension of the second unit pattern

[0182] 21f Sixth extension portion of the second unit pattern

[0183] 22a First straight line portion of the second unit pattern

[0184] 22b The second straight line portion of the second unit pattern

[0185] 22c The third straight line portion of the second unit pattern

[0186] 23a The first top portion of the second unit pattern

[0187] 23b The second top of the second unit pattern

[0188] 23c The third top of the second unit pattern

[0189] 24a The first sidewall surface of the second unit pattern

[0190] 24b The second sidewall surface of the second unit pattern

[0191] 24c The third sidewall surface of the second unit pattern

[0192] 25 Base of the second unit pattern

[0193] 26 ridges

[0194] 26a First Ridge

[0195] 26b Second Ridge

[0196] 27 Top of the ridge

[0197] 28 Sidewall of ridge

[0198] 31 Outer surface of tread

[0199] 32 Sidewall outer surface

[0200] 32a Side wall outer surface

[0201] 32b Outer surface of tire bead

[0202] 50 bulge

[0203] 50a Top of the convex portion

[0204] 51 Ridge

[0205] 52 Top of the ridge

[0206] 60 connection

[0207] 70 Boundary Ridge

[0208] A Tire width direction

[0209] B Tire Radial

[0210] C Tire circumference

[0211] CL tire equatorial plane

[0212] D1 Minimum spacing distance between the tops of the convex parts of the first region

[0213] D2 Minimum spacing distance between the tops of the ridges in the second region

[0214] D2a Minimum spacing distance between the tops of the first ridges of the first segmented regions of the second region

[0215] D2b Minimum spacing distance between the tops of the second ridges of the second segmented regions of the second region

[0216] D3 Minimum spacing distance from the standard position of the first region to the top of the cell pattern adjacent to the standard cell pattern

[0217] F1 Imaginary vertical plane relative to the base of the first region

[0218] F2 An imaginary vertical plane relative to the base of the second region

[0219] H1 Height of the protrusion of the straight portion of the first region

[0220] H2 The height of the ridge in the second region

[0221] H3 The height of the boundary ridge of the second region

[0222] H4 Height of the first ridge of the first segmented region of the second region

[0223] H5 Height of the second ridge of the second segmented region of the second region

[0224] L straight extension length

[0225] M The maximum straight length of the base of the first region

[0226] O Tire center axis

[0227] O1 The center point of the first unit pattern

[0228] O2 The center point of the second unit pattern

[0229] W1 Width of the straight line portion of the first region

[0230] W2 The width of the ridge of the second region

[0231] P The interval between the center points of the first unit pattern and the second unit pattern

[0232] SP standard position

[0233] SU standard unit pattern

[0234] TE tread end

[0235] X1 First Area

[0236] X2 Second Area

[0237] X2a First segment area

[0238] X2b Second segment area

[0239] X3 Third Area

[0240] θ1 Angle relative to an imaginary vertical plane at the base of the first region

[0241] θ2 Angle relative to an imaginary vertical plane at the base of the second region

Claims

1. A tire comprising, on its outer surface: a first region including a concavoconvex surface formed by convex portions arranged over the entire area of the first region; as well as a second region including a concavo-convex surface formed by a plurality of ridges arranged over the entire area of the second region, the second region being arranged adjacent to the first region, wherein a minimum spacing distance between the tops of the convex portions in the first region is shorter than a minimum spacing distance between the tops of two adjacent ridges in the second region, The second area has: a first segmented region having a plurality of first ridges arranged in parallel; a second segmented region having a plurality of second ridges arranged in parallel; as well as a boundary ridge forming a boundary between the first segmented region and the second segmented region, a minimum spacing distance between tops of two adjacent first ridges in the plurality of first ridges of the first segmented region is shorter than a minimum spacing distance between tops of two adjacent second ridges in the plurality of second ridges of the second segmented region, The protrusion height of the convex portion of the first region is higher than the protrusion height of the plurality of first ridges of the first segmented region of the second region and the protrusion height of the plurality of second ridges of the second segmented region of the second region. The protruding height of the boundary ridge is lower than the protruding heights of the plurality of first ridges in the first segmented region and the plurality of second ridges in the second segmented region.

2. The tire according to claim 1, wherein The convex portion in the first region includes a unit pattern of a predetermined shape that is repeatedly arranged.

3. The tire according to claim 2, wherein: The unit pattern includes a plurality of extension portions extending from a relay point in different directions in a plan view.

4. The tire according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: In a case where an arbitrary unit pattern in the first region is designated as a standard unit pattern and an arbitrary position of a top of the standard unit pattern is designated as a standard position, A minimum spacing distance from the standard position to a top of a cell pattern adjacent to the standard cell pattern is shorter than a minimum spacing distance between tops of the two adjacent ridges in the second region.

5. The tire according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first region and the second region are provided on the outer surface of the sidewall portion of the tire outer surface, and At least both sides of the first region in the tire circumferential direction are adjacent to the second region.

6. The tire according to claim 4, wherein: The first region and the second region are provided on the outer surface of the sidewall portion of the tire outer surface, and At least both sides of the first region in the tire circumferential direction are adjacent to the second region.

7. The tire according to claim 5, wherein: At least one side of the first region in the tire radial direction is adjacent to the second region.

8. The tire according to claim 6, wherein: At least one side of the first region in the tire radial direction is adjacent to the second region.

9. The tire according to claim 7, wherein: The first area is surrounded by the second area, and The first region adjoins the second region over the entire periphery of the first region.

10. The tire according to claim 8, wherein The first area is surrounded by the second area, and The first region adjoins the second region over the entire periphery of the first region.

Images