Tires for vehicle wheels

Abstract

A tire for a vehicle wheel comprises a support structure and a tread band arranged in a radially outer position relative to the support structure. The support structure comprises at least one reinforcement layer, the reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of hybrid reinforcing cords (10'), each hybrid reinforcing cord having a metal wire (21) twisted together with a multifilament textile yarn (22) comprising a plurality of filaments (23). In any cross section of each of the hybrid reinforcing cords (10'), the metal wire (21) is at least partially embedded in the filaments (23) of the multifilament textile yarn (22).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a tyre for a vehicle wheel.

[0002] The tire of the invention is preferably a tire for wheels of sports cars, in particular high-performance and ultra-high-performance cars.

[0003] Tires for high-performance and ultra-high-performance vehicles, generally defined as "HP" or "UHP" tires, are in particular those allowing speeds of over 190 km / h up to over 300 km / h to be reached. Examples of such tires are tires with the speed codes "T", "U", "H", "V", "Z", "W", "Y" according to the ETRTO (European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation) standard and racing tires, in particular tires for highly dynamic four-wheeled vehicles. Typically, tires with the above-mentioned speed codes have a cross-sectional width equal to or greater than 185 mm, preferably between 195 mm and 385 mm, more preferably between 195 mm and 355 mm. Such tires are preferably mounted on rims having a mating diameter equal to or greater than 13 inches, preferably not greater than 24 inches, more preferably between 16 inches and 23 inches.

[0004] However, the tire of the present invention may be used in vehicles other than the above-mentioned automobiles, such as high-performance sports motorcycles.

[0005] The tire of the invention comprises hybrid reinforcing cords as defined hereinafter in this description.

[0006] In addition to the hybrid reinforcing cords described above, the tire of the invention may also comprise hybrid textile reinforcing cords as defined hereinafter in this description. Background Art

[0007] Hybrid reinforcing cords intended for use in tires are described, for example, in WO 2013 / 098738, DE 102004036129, US 2009 / 0294029, US 2015 / 0233027, WO 2009 / 073761, US 2012 / 0180926, US 7594380, US 8166741, EP 621143, US 3977174, US 2003 / 0051788, EP 2000585, WO 2017 / 222046. Such reinforcing cords comprise a core made of a non-metallic material and one or more metal wires wound around the core.

[0008] Hybrid textile reinforcing cords intended for use in tires are described, for example, in US 7222481 B2, EP 3196343 A1, US 4343343 A1, EP 329590 A1, EP 3073002 A1 Such reinforcing cords comprise a core made of a textile material and one or more windings of textile filaments around the core made of a material different from that of the core. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Throughout the specification and the appended claims, when certain values ​​of certain angles are mentioned, unless otherwise stated, they refer to absolute values, ie both positive and negative values, relative to a reference plane or reference direction.

[0010] Further, when any range of values ​​between a minimum and a maximum is recited, the aforementioned minimum and maximum values ​​are intended to be included in the aforementioned range unless otherwise stated.

[0011] Furthermore, all ranges include any combination of the maximum and minimum values ​​recited and include any intermediate ranges, even if not expressly recited.

[0012] Even if not expressly stated, any numerical value is deemed to be preceded by the term "about" to indicate any value that differs slightly from the stated value, for example to take into account dimensional tolerances typical of the referenced art.

[0013] Hereinafter, the following definitions apply.

[0014] The term “equatorial plane” of the tire is used to denote the plane perpendicular to the tire's axis of rotation and dividing the tire into two symmetrically equal parts.

[0015] The terms "radial" and "axial" and the expressions "radially inward / outward" and "axially inward / outward" are used with reference to a direction substantially parallel to the equatorial plane of the tire and a direction substantially perpendicular to the equatorial plane of the tire, respectively, i.e. with reference to a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the tire and a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the tire, respectively.

[0016] The terms "circumferential" and "circumferentially" are used with reference to the direction of the annular extension of the tyre, ie its rolling direction, which corresponds to a direction lying in a plane coinciding with or substantially parallel to the equatorial plane of the tyre.

[0017] The term "substantially axial direction" is intended to denote a direction inclined by an angle comprised between 70° and 90° with respect to the equatorial plane of the tyre.

[0018] The term "substantially circumferential direction" is used to denote a direction oriented at an angle of between 0° and 10° with respect to the equatorial plane of the tyre.

[0019] The term "elastomeric material" or "elastomer" is used to denote a material comprising a vulcanizable natural or synthetic polymer and a reinforcing filler, wherein such material, at room temperature and after having been vulcanized, can deform in response to a force and quickly and positively recover substantially its original shape and dimensions after the deforming force is removed (as defined in ASTM D1566-11 Standard Terminology Relating To Rubber).

[0020] The expression “reinforcement cord” or simply “cord” is used to denote an elongated element composed of one or more elongated elements (hereinafter also called “threads” or “yarns”), optionally coated with or embedded in a matrix of elastomeric material.

[0021] In the following, the expression "thread" will be used to refer to a single elongated element made of metal material (in which case the expression "metal wire" will also be used) or a single elongated element consisting of a single textile filament (in which case the expression "monofilament textile thread" will also be used), while the expression "yarn" will be used to refer to an elongated element consisting of an aggregation of multiple textile filaments (in which case the expression "multifilament textile yarn" will also be used).

[0022] Each filament may also be referred to as a "fiber."

[0023] The term "linear density" or "count" of a cord or thread / yarn is used to indicate the weight of the cord or thread / yarn per unit length. Linear density can be measured in dtex (grams per 10 km of length). According to the tests prescribed by BISFA, for the measurement of linear density, reference is made to the flat thread / yarn without twisting during the test step or twisting step. For example, reference is made to:

[0024] For aramid fiber (AR):

[0025] -Test Methods for Para-Aramid Fiber Yarn, 2002 Edition,

[0026] -Determination of Linear Density-Chapter 6

[0027] - Determination of tensile properties - Chapter 7 - Test procedures - Paragraph 7.5 - Procedure with initial pre-stretching;

[0028] For Lyocell fibers:

[0029] -Determination of Linear Density-Chapter 6

[0030] - Test Methods for Viscose, Cupro, Acetate, Triacetate, and Lyocell Filament Yarns - 2007 Edition, Determination of Tensile Properties - Chapter 7 - Tensile Test Conditions: Oven Dry Test - Table 7.1 - Test Procedure - Paragraph 7.5 - Oven Dry Test on Relaxed Specimens - Subparagraph 7.5.2.4.

[0031] The yarn may have one or more "ends", where the term "end" is used to refer to bundles of filaments twisted together. Preferably, there is only a single end or at least two end yarns twisted together.

[0032] A textile reinforcing cord may be identified by a symbol representing the textile material, the fiber count used, and the number of warp yarns forming the reinforcing cord. For example, a reinforcing cord with a part made of aromatic polyamide identified as Ar1672 indicates a cord comprising aromatic polyamide fibers having a count of 1670 dtex, formed by two warp yarns twisted together.

[0033] The term "strand" is used to denote an elongated element obtained by twisting at least two threads or yarns, or by twisting at least one thread and at least one yarn, wherein each thread and / or yarn extends in a non-linear direction. Such an elongated element may itself constitute a reinforcing cord or be twisted with at least one other elongated element or strand to form a reinforcing cord. In the case of a reinforcing cord obtained by twisting at least two strands, the at least two strands may be identical or different.

[0034] The expression “hybrid reinforcement cord” is used to denote a reinforcement cord comprising at least one metal wire and at least one multifilament textile yarn.

[0035] The expression “hybrid textile reinforcement cord” is used to denote a reinforcement cord comprising at least one monofilament textile thread and at least one multifilament textile yarn, wherein the at least one monofilament textile thread and the at least one multifilament textile yarn may be made of the same textile material or different textile materials.

[0036] The term "diameter" of a reinforcing cord or thread or yarn is used to denote the diameter measured as specified in method BISFA E10 (The International Bureau For The Standardization Of Man-Made Fibres, Internationally Agreed Methods For Testing Steel Tire Cords, 1995 edition).

[0037] In the case of yarn, the term "diameter" of the yarn is used to mean the diameter of an ideal circle that circumscribes all of the filaments that define the yarn.

[0038] The term "breaking load" of a reinforcement cord is used to denote the load at which the reinforcement cord breaks as evaluated using method BISFA E6 (The International Bureau For The Standardization Of Man-Made Fibres, Internationally Agreed Methods For Testing Steel Tire Cords, 1995 edition).

[0039] The term "stiffness" of a reinforcing cord is used to denote the resistance to bending at a predetermined angle (usually 15°) evaluated using method BISFA E8 (The International Bureau For The Standardization Of Man-Made Fibres, Internationally Agreed Methods For Testing Steel Tyre Cords, 1995 edition).

[0040] The term "radial carcass structure" is used to denote a carcass structure comprising a plurality of reinforcing cords, each oriented in a substantially axial direction. Such reinforcing cords may be incorporated in a single carcass layer or in a plurality of carcass layers (preferably two) radially juxtaposed to one another.

[0041] The term "cross belt structure" is used to denote a belt structure comprising a first belt layer and at least one second belt layer, the first belt layer comprising reinforcing cords which are substantially parallel to one another and inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the equatorial plane of the tire, the second belt layer being arranged in a radially outer position relative to the first belt layer and comprising reinforcing cords which are substantially parallel to one another but oriented with an inclination relative to the equatorial plane of the tire opposite to that of one of the reinforcing cords of the first layer.

[0042] The term "zero-degree belt" is used to denote a reinforcement layer comprising at least one reinforcing cord wound on the belt structure according to a substantially circumferential winding direction.

[0043] The term "thread count" of a reinforcement layer is used to denote the number of reinforcing cords per unit length provided in that layer, such as for example a carcass ply or a belt layer. The thread count can be measured in cords / dm (cords per decimeter).

[0044] In the following, when discussing the adhesion capacity of a thread, or a yarn, or a filament, or a reinforcing cord, or generally an elongated element to an elastomeric material, reference is made to the adhesion capacity provided to the elongated element solely by its shape or structure, therefore without taking into account possible surface treatments suitable for this purpose.

[0045] Tires for sports cars require high adhesion to the ground in order to effectively transfer the high drive torques to which they are subjected to, thereby achieving high thrust and effective braking forces. Such tires must also be lightweight and provide adequate response to the stresses to which they are subjected, both during straight-line driving and during cornering.

[0046] Tyres for sports cars typically comprise a radial carcass structure extending between opposing bead structures, a cross-belt structure arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the carcass structure, a zero-degrees reinforcement layer arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the cross-belt structure and a tread band arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the zero-degrees reinforcement layer.

[0047] The carcass structure is configured to provide the tire with the required integrity and structural strength, while the belt structure, in addition to contributing to the aforementioned integrity and structural strength, is also configured to transfer the lateral and longitudinal stresses to which the tire is subjected when in contact with the road surface during driving to the carcass structure, thereby providing the tire with the required performance characteristics (i.e., grip, driving stability, controllability, directionality, and stability). On the other hand, the zero-degree reinforcement layer is configured to limit radial deformation of the belt structure.

[0048] In order to achieve the above-mentioned structural and performance characteristics, one or more reinforcement layers are provided in the carcass structure and the belt structure, each reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of reinforcement cords appropriately inclined with respect to the circumferential direction or the rolling direction.

[0049] The Applicant has long been producing tyres for sports cars comprising textile reinforcing cords in the carcass structure and metallic reinforcing cords in the belt structure.

[0050] In view of the general trend towards reducing CO 2 emissions into the atmosphere, the Applicant has considered the problem of reducing the rolling resistance of its tyres, including tyres for sports cars.

[0051] The Applicant has therefore considered using in the belt structure reinforcement cords at least partially made of textile material.

[0052] The Applicant has observed that, by appropriately choosing the type of textile element used in the reinforcing cord (monofilament textile threads, multifilament textile yarns and / or possible combinations of one or more of the aforementioned threads with one or more of the aforementioned yarns), it is possible to manufacture reinforcing cords having characteristics such as are theoretically suitable for use in the belt structure of a tire.

[0053] The Applicant has considered that, in tires for any type of vehicle, including tires for sports cars, it is necessary to obtain good adhesion of the reinforcing cords to the surrounding elastomeric material and has found that multifilament textile yarns are more suitable for this purpose than monofilament textile yarns, due to their smaller diameter or thickness compared to monofilament textile yarns, multifilament textile yarns providing a larger contact surface with the surrounding elastomeric material.

[0054] The Applicant has therefore considered using, in the belt structures of its tyres, reinforcement cords comprising multifilament textile yarns.

[0055] However, the Applicant has observed that, in particular in tires for sports cars, in order to maximize performance in terms of thrust, braking, and response to longitudinal and lateral stresses, the reinforcing cords of the belt structure preferably comprise metal wires. Furthermore, according to the Applicant, metal wires are better suited to withstanding compressive stresses than multifilament textile yarns of the same diameter and reduce the hysteresis caused by mutual friction between the wires and / or textile filaments.

[0056] By resolving this contradiction and aiming to meet all the requirements discussed above, the Applicant has considered making a hybrid reinforcement cord comprising both at least one metal wire and multifilament textile yarns.

[0057] Believing that the filaments of the multifilament textile yarn provide a greater adhesion to the elastomeric material than the metal threads, the applicant has considered it appropriate to at least partially embed or incorporate at least one metal thread into the filaments of the multifilament textile yarn, so that, in any cross-section of the reinforcing cord, the outer surface of the reinforcing cord has at least one substantially extended portion defined by the filaments of the multifilament textile yarn and thus provides excellent adhesion to the surrounding elastomeric material. According to the applicant, the greater the size of the portion of the metal thread embedded in the multifilament textile yarn in any cross-section of the hybrid reinforcing cord, the greater this adhesion.

[0058] The Applicant has also determined that providing at least one metallic cord, in addition to contributing to achieving sufficient response to the longitudinal, lateral and compressive stresses to which the tire in which it is used is subjected, as well as contributing to reducing hysteresis, also makes the reinforcing cord suitable for processing in current industrial tire production equipment, thereby offering advantages in terms of design, construction and production costs. In practice, the production lines for belt structures provided in such equipment are provided with devices or equipment specifically configured to work with the metallic reinforcing cords, such as, for example, cutting devices (usually of the guillotine type) and / or gripping and / or moving and / or positioning and / or centering devices (usually of the magnetic type). The forming supports on which the layers of the belt structure are placed are also generally of the magnetic type.

[0059] Thus, in a first aspect thereof, the present invention relates to a tyre for vehicle wheels comprising a supporting structure and a tread band arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the supporting structure.

[0060] Preferably, the supporting structure comprises at least one reinforcement layer comprising a plurality of hybrid reinforcement cords.

[0061] Preferably, each of said hybrid reinforcing cords comprises at least one first strand comprising at least one metal wire and a first multifilament textile yarn comprising a plurality of filaments twisted together.

[0062] Preferably, in any cross-section of at least some of said hybrid reinforcing cords, said at least one metal wire is at least partially embedded in the filaments of the first multifilament textile yarn.

[0063] In its second aspect, the present invention relates to a hybrid reinforcing cord comprising at least one metal wire and a multifilament textile yarn comprising a plurality of filaments, wherein preferably, in any cross section of the hybrid reinforcing cord, the at least one metal wire is at least partially embedded in the filaments of the multifilament textile yarn.

[0064] According to the Applicant, the hybrid reinforcing cord as described above allows maximizing the desired results, in particular with regard to weight and performance of the tire, while ensuring excellent adhesion of the reinforcing cord to the surrounding elastomeric material, hysteresis reduction and processability of the reinforcing cord in current industrial tire production equipment.

[0065] By appropriately selecting the number of strands and the number of metal wires provided in the strands, it is possible to prioritize weight over tire performance, and vice versa. In particular, as the number of strands and / or metal wires increases, tire performance will improve at the expense of weight, and vice versa, as the number of strands and / or metal wires decreases, weight will decrease at the expense of tire performance.

[0066] Proper selection of the number of strands and / or the number of metal wires may also make hybrid reinforcement cords more suitable for use in certain reinforcement components of a tire than other cords.

[0067] In fact, according to the Applicant, the above-mentioned hybrid reinforcing cords, while being suitable for use in the belt structure of the tire, are also (or only) used in other reinforcing components of the tire, such as, for example, in the reinforcing components of the tire described below and identified as "flipper" and "chafer", replacing both conventional metal reinforcing cords (with the resulting advantages in terms of reduced tire weight, the possibility of identifying the tire by RFID in the case of a low presence of metallic material in the reinforcing cords and the possibility of running with a deflated tire without risk of overheating the reinforcing cords) and conventional textile reinforcing cords comprising only multifilament textile yarns (with the resulting advantages in terms of stiffness, fatigue resistance and performance).

[0068] The above-mentioned hybrid reinforcing cord can also be used in the carcass structure of the tire. In this case, it is preferred to limit the metal wire (and / or its diameter) and increase the number of twists per meter of the multifilament textile yarn or reduce the twist pitch of the metal wire and the multifilament textile yarn in order to have good flexibility and reduce the weight of the tire.

[0069] The Applicant believes that the hybrid reinforcing cord described above is particularly suitable for use in tires for all types of vehicles requiring high performance, thus still achieving the benefits described above not only in sports cars but also, for example, in sports motorcycles.

[0070] In at least one of the aforementioned aspects, the present invention may have at least one of the following preferred features.

[0071] Preferably, in any cross-section of each of said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords, at least 50% of the outer surface of said at least one metal wire is embedded in the filaments of the first multifilament textile yarn. In this way, any portion of the outer surface of the metal wire that would be directly exposed to the surrounding elastomeric material in each cross-section of said reinforcing cord would have an extension that does not impair the excellent adhesion of said reinforcing cord to the surrounding elastomeric material.

[0072] Preferably, said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords comprise at least one portion (or section) of the cord where said at least one metal wire is completely surrounded by the filaments of the first multifilament textile yarn, with consequent advantages in terms of adhesion to the surrounding elastomeric material.

[0073] Each of the at least some hybrid reinforcement cords may comprise a single first strand (in which case the hybrid reinforcement cord is defined by or coincident with such a single first strand) or more than one first strand (in which case the hybrid reinforcement cord is defined by the entirety of these strands).

[0074] In some embodiments, at least some of the hybrid reinforcing cords comprise at least two first strands twisted with each other.This arrangement makes it possible to increase the fatigue resistance of the hybrid reinforcing cords.

[0075] The twisting direction of the at least one metal wire and the first multifilament textile yarn may be the same as or different from the twisting direction of the at least two first strands. Preferably, the twisting directions are the same.

[0076] Preferably, each of the at least two first strands comprises at least one respective metal wire and a respective first multifilament textile yarn, said metal wire and said first multifilament textile yarn being arranged such that, in any cross-section of said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords, said at least one respective metal wire is preferably at least partially embedded in the filaments of the respective first multifilament textile yarn.

[0077] Preferably, said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords comprise n first strands twisted together, wherein n is a number between 1 and 4, more preferably between 1 and 3.

[0078] Preferably, each of said n first strands comprises x metal wires, wherein x is a number comprised between 1 and 3, preferably equal to 1 or 2, even more preferably equal to 1.

[0079] Preferably, the at least one metal wire is twisted to the first multifilament textile yarn with a first twist pitch greater than about 1 mm, more preferably greater than about 2 mm.

[0080] Preferably, the first twist pitch is less than about 20 mm, more preferably less than about 15 mm.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the above-mentioned first twisting pitch is between about 1 mm and about 20 mm, more preferably between about 2 mm and about 15 mm, for example equal to 12.5 mm.

[0082] Preferably, in the case where more than one first strand is provided, the twisting pitch of the first strands is equal to the above-mentioned first twisting pitch.

[0083] Preferably, the diameter of the at least one metal wire is greater than 0.10 mm, more preferably greater than 0.15 mm.

[0084] Preferably, the diameter of the at least one metal wire is less than 0.45 mm, more preferably less than 0.40 mm.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of said at least one metal wire is between 0.10 mm and 0.45 mm, more preferably between 0.15 mm and 0.40 mm, for example equal to 0.22 mm.

[0086] Preferably, the diameter of the metal wire is selected according to the number of metal wires arranged in the hybrid reinforcement cord. In particular, the more metal wires are arranged in each hybrid reinforcement cord, the more the diameter of the metal wire can be reduced.

[0087] Preferably, the linear density of the first multifilament textile yarn is greater than 400 dtex, more preferably greater than 800 dtex.

[0088] Preferably, the linear density of the first multifilament textile yarn is lower than 4000 dtex, more preferably lower than 2500 dtex.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the linear density of the first multifilament textile yarn is between 400 dtex and 4000 dtex, more preferably between 800 dtex and 2500 dtex, for example equal to 1680 dtex.

[0090] Preferably, the greater the linear density of the first multifilament textile yarn, the smaller the number of metal wires embedded in the first multifilament textile yarn and / or the smaller the diameter of such metal wires.

[0091] Preferably, said at least one metal wire is made of steel.

[0092] Preferably, the filaments of the first multifilament textile yarn are made of a fiber selected from the group consisting of aromatic polyamide fibers, aliphatic polyamide fibers (e.g., nylon 6, nylon 6.6, nylon 4.6, nylon 4.10, nylon 10.10, nylon 11, nylon 12, nylon 6.10, nylon 6.12), polyester fibers (e.g., polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene isophthalate), polyketone fibers, polyvinyl alcohol fibers, cellulosic fibers (e.g., rayon, lyocell fibers), glass fibers, carbon fibers, or mixtures thereof, or a blend of two or more of the above-listed materials. Such a blend of fibers is hereinafter referred to as "commingled fibers."

[0093] In the case of composite fibers, the fibers of the filaments of the first multifilament textile yarn may, for example, comprise:

[0094] - 50% aramid with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex and 50% PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex;

[0095] - 43% of aramid with a linear density equal to 840 dtex and 57% of PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex;

[0096] - 33% of aramid with a linear density equal to 550 dtex and 67% of PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex.

[0097] In some preferred embodiments, the reinforcement cord comprises only one or more first strands.

[0098] In other preferred embodiments, the at least one first strand is twisted together with at least one second strand made of a textile material. In this case, the hybrid reinforcing cord therefore comprises at least two different types of strands, at least one of which is made of a textile material.

[0099] Preferably, the second strand comprises at least one monofilament textile thread twisted together with a second multifilament textile yarn comprising a plurality of filaments.

[0100] Preferably, in any cross-section of said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords, said at least one monofilament textile thread is at least partially embedded in the filaments of the second multifilament textile yarn.

[0101] Preferably, in any cross-section of at least some of the hybrid reinforcing cords, at least 50% of the outer surface of the at least one monofilament textile thread is embedded in the filaments of the second multifilament textile yarn. In this way, any extension of the outer surface of the monofilament textile thread that would be directly exposed to the surrounding elastomeric material in each cross-section of the hybrid reinforcing cord does not impair the excellent adhesion of the hybrid reinforcing cord to the surrounding elastomeric material.

[0102] Preferably, said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords comprise at least one portion (or section) of the cord where said at least one monofilament textile thread is completely surrounded by filaments of a second multifilament textile yarn, with consequent advantages in terms of adhesion to the surrounding elastomeric material.

[0103] Each of the at least some hybrid reinforcement cords may include a single second strand or a plurality of second strands.

[0104] In some embodiments, at least some of the hybrid reinforcement cords include at least two second strands twisted together with the at least one first strand.

[0105] Embodiments of hybrid reinforcing cords comprising at least two second strands twisted together with a single first strand and different embodiments of hybrid reinforcing cords comprising at least two first strands twisted together with a single second strand are envisioned.

[0106] Preferably, each of the at least two second strands comprises at least one respective monofilament textile thread and a respective second multifilament textile yarn, the monofilament textile thread and the second multifilament textile yarn being arranged such that, in any cross-section of the at least some hybrid reinforcing cords, the at least one respective monofilament textile thread is preferably at least partially embedded in the filaments of the respective second multifilament textile yarn.

[0107] Preferably, said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords comprise m second strands twisted together with said at least one first strand, wherein m is a number comprised between 1 and 4, more preferably between 1 and 3.

[0108] Preferably, each of said m second strands comprises y first monofilament threads, wherein y is a number comprised between 1 and 3, more preferably being equal to 1 or 2, even more preferably being equal to 1.

[0109] Preferably, the monofilament textile yarn is twisted to the second multifilament textile yarn at a second twist pitch greater than about 1 mm, more preferably greater than about 2 mm.

[0110] Preferably, the second twist pitch is less than about 20 mm, more preferably less than about 15 mm.

[0111] In a preferred embodiment, the second twisting pitch is between about 1 mm and about 20 mm, more preferably between about 2 mm and about 15 mm.

[0112] Preferably, the second twisting pitch is equal to the first twisting pitch.

[0113] Preferably, in the case where more than one second strand is provided, the twisting pitch of the second strand and the at least one first strand may be equal to or different from the second twisting pitch.

[0114] The twist direction of the monofilament textile yarn and the second multifilament textile yarn may be the same as or different from the twist direction of the at least one second strand and the at least one first strand. Preferably, the twist directions are the same.

[0115] Preferably, the diameter of the at least one monofilament textile thread is greater than about 0.10 mm, more preferably greater than about 0.15 mm.

[0116] Preferably, the diameter of the at least one monofilament textile thread is less than about 0.70 mm, more preferably less than about 0.50 mm.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of said at least one monofilament textile thread is comprised between about 0.10 mm and about 0.70 mm, more preferably between about 0.15 mm and about 0.50 mm, for example equal to 0.40 mm.

[0118] In general, preferably, the more monofilament textile threads are included in each second strand of the hybrid reinforcing cord, the more the diameter of the monofilament textile threads can be reduced.

[0119] Preferably, the linear density of the second multifilament textile yarns is greater than about 400 dtex, more preferably greater than about 800 dtex.

[0120] Preferably, the linear density of the second multifilament textile yarns is lower than about 4000 dtex, more preferably lower than about 2500 dtex.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, the linear density of the second multifilament textile yarn is between about 400 dtex and about 4000 dtex, more preferably between about 800 dtex and about 2500 dtex, for example equal to 1680 dtex.

[0122] Preferably, the greater the linear density of the second multifilament textile yarn, the smaller the number of monofilament textile threads embedded in the second multifilament textile yarn and / or the smaller the diameter of such monofilament textile threads.

[0123] Preferably, the at least one monofilament textile thread is made of aliphatic polyamide fibers (e.g. nylon 6, nylon 6.6, nylon 4.6, nylon 4.10, nylon 10.10, nylon 11, nylon 12, nylon 6.10, nylon 6.12), polyester fibers (e.g. polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene isophthalate), polyaryletherketone fibers (e.g. polyetheretherketone) or a mixture thereof.

[0124] Preferably, the filaments of the second multifilament textile yarn are made of aramid fibers, aliphatic polyamide fibers (e.g., nylon 6, nylon 6.6, nylon 4.6, nylon 4.10, nylon 10.10, nylon 11, nylon 12, nylon 6.10, nylon 6.12), polyester fibers (e.g., polybutylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene isophthalate), polyketone fibers, polyvinyl alcohol fibers, cellulose fibers (e.g., rayon, lyocell fibers), glass fibers, carbon fibers, or a mixture thereof, or a composite fiber comprising two or more of the above-listed materials. In the case of composite fibers, the fibers of the filaments of the second multifilament textile yarn may, for example, include:

[0125] - 50% aramid with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex and 50% PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex;

[0126] - 43% of aramid with a linear density equal to 840 dtex and 57% of PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex;

[0127] - 33% of aramid with a linear density equal to 550 dtex and 67% of PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex.

[0128] Preferably, the second multifilament textile yarn is identical to the first multifilament textile yarn.

[0129] The at least one first monofilament textile strand may or may not be twisted with itself before being twisted to the second multifilament textile yarn.

[0130] Preferably, said at least one monofilament textile thread is twisted on itself with a predetermined first torsional pitch.The Applicant has observed that such an arrangement helps to optimize the behavior of the hybrid reinforcement cord under fatigue.

[0131] Preferably, said first torsion pitch is equal to the second twisting pitch.In this way, the embedding of the monofilament textile threads in the filaments of the corresponding multifilament textile yarns is maximized, so as to favor the adhesion of the hybrid reinforcement cord to the surrounding elastomeric material.

[0132] The second multifilament textile yarn may or may not be twisted with itself at a predetermined second twist pitch before being twisted with the at least one monofilament textile yarn. When twisted with itself, the second twist pitch is preferably equal to the second twist pitch. This arrangement maximizes the embedding of the monofilament textile yarn into the filaments of the corresponding multifilament textile yarn.

[0133] Preferably, the plurality of hybrid reinforcing cords is a textile having a plurality of elongated weft elements and a plurality of elongated warp elements. Providing the hybrid reinforcing cords in the form of a textile allows the textile to be used immediately in the reinforcement layers of the tire once it has been obtained, without requiring the user to perform a twisting operation on the threads / yarns, as would be necessary if a single reinforcing cord had to be used.

[0134] More preferably, said at least some hybrid reinforcement cords belong to said plurality of elongated warp elements.

[0135] In some preferred embodiments, the at least one reinforcement layer further comprises a plurality of textile reinforcement cords.

[0136] Preferably, said textile reinforcement cords are hybrid textile reinforcement cords as defined above.

[0137] More preferably, at least some of said hybrid textile reinforcement cords comprise at least one strand comprising at least one monofilament textile thread twisted together to a respective multifilament textile yarn.

[0138] Preferably, at least one strand of the hybrid textile reinforcement cord is identical to the at least one second strand of the hybrid reinforcement cord and thus has all the advantages discussed above with respect to the second strand of the hybrid reinforcement cord.

[0139] Thus, also in this case, preferably, in any cross-section of at least some of the hybrid textile reinforcing cords, the at least one monofilament textile thread is at least partially embedded in the filaments of the corresponding multifilament textile yarn, so as to ensure high adhesion of the reinforcing cord to the surrounding elastomeric material. Moreover, due to this embedding, the reinforcing cord has a substantially balanced behavior when subjected to compressive stress, i.e. all the components of the reinforcing cord (monofilament textile threads and filaments of the multifilament textile yarn) are stressed in substantially the same way.

[0140] Preferably, in any cross-section of each of the at least some hybrid textile reinforcing cords, at least 50% of the outer surface of the at least one monofilament textile thread is embedded in the filaments of the corresponding multifilament textile yarn. In this way, in each cross-section of the hybrid textile reinforcing cord, any portion of the outer surface of the monofilament textile thread that would be directly exposed to the surrounding elastomeric material has an extension that does not impair the excellent adhesion of the hybrid textile reinforcing cord to the surrounding elastomeric material.

[0141] In order to maximize this adhesion, more preferably, said at least some hybrid textile reinforcing cords comprise at least one portion (or segment) of the cord where said at least one monofilament textile thread is completely surrounded by filaments of a corresponding multifilament textile yarn.

[0142] Each of the at least some hybrid textile reinforcement cords may include a single strand or a plurality of strands.

[0143] In some embodiments, at least some of the hybrid textile reinforcement cords include at least two strands twisted together.

[0144] Preferably, each of the at least two second strands comprises at least one respective monofilament textile thread and a respective multifilament textile yarn, the monofilament textile thread and the multifilament textile yarn being arranged such that, in any cross-section of the at least some hybrid textile reinforcing cords, the at least one respective monofilament textile thread is preferably at least partially embedded in the filaments of the respective multifilament textile yarn.

[0145] The twist direction of the monofilament textile threads and multifilament textile yarns of each strand of the hybrid textile reinforcing cord may or may not be the same as the twist direction of at least two strands of such reinforcing cord. Preferably, the twist directions are the same.

[0146] Preferably, said at least some hybrid textile reinforcing cords comprise p strands twisted together, wherein p is a number between 1 and 4, more preferably between 1 and 3.

[0147] Preferably, each of said p second strands comprises q monofilament threads, wherein q is a number comprised between 1 and 3, more preferably equal to 1 and 2, even more preferably equal to 1.

[0148] Preferably, the at least one strand provided in the hybrid textile reinforcing cord has the same preferred features as described above with reference to the at least one second strand provided in the hybrid reinforcing cord. These same preferred features are, in particular, the twist pitch of the monofilament textile yarn and the multifilament textile yarn, the twist pitch of the strand (in the case of a hybrid textile reinforcing cord having more than one strand), the diameter of the monofilament textile yarn, the linear density of the multifilament textile yarn, the material of the filaments of the monofilament textile yarn and the multifilament textile yarn, and any twist pitch of the monofilament textile yarn and the multifilament textile yarn.

[0149] Preferably, said at least some hybrid textile reinforcement cords belong to said textile body.

[0150] More preferably, said at least some textile reinforcing cords belong to a plurality of elongated warp elements of such a textile body.

[0151] Preferably, said textile body comprises at least one of said hybrid reinforcement cords for every z hybrid textile reinforcement cords, wherein z is a number comprised between 1 and 30.

[0152] The value of the number z is chosen depending on the specific intended use. For example, when it is desired to prioritize the weight of the tire over its performance, a larger value of z (preferably greater than 10, such as 30) will be chosen, while when it is desired to prioritize the performance of the tire over its weight, a lower value of z (preferably less than 10) will be chosen.

[0153] The value of number z can also be selected according to the diameter and / or number of the metal wire provided in each hybrid reinforcing cord or in each first strand of the hybrid reinforcing cord. For example, the larger the diameter and / or number, the larger the value of number z.

[0154] Preferably, the thread count of said at least one reinforcing layer is greater than 50 cords / dm, more preferably greater than 60 cords / dm.

[0155] Preferably, the thread count of said at least one reinforcing layer is lower than or equal to 100 cords / dm, more preferably lower than or equal to 85 cords / dm.

[0156] In a preferred embodiment, the thread count of said at least one reinforcing layer is between 50 cords / dm and 100 cords / dm, preferably between 60 cords / dm and 85 cords / dm.

[0157] The Applicant has observed that providing the aforementioned values ​​of cords helps to optimally meet the requirement of increasing the amount of cords present in the reinforcing layer as much as possible, while still being compatible with the need to provide a distance between adjacent reinforcing cords sufficient to ensure that the elastomeric material is present in an amount sufficient to ensure that the reinforcing layer has the desired mechanical properties. The Applicant believes that such a distance must preferably have an extension of not less than 0.10 mm, more preferably not less than 0.15 mm, for example equal to 0.20 mm.

[0158] Preferably, the thickness of the at least one reinforcement layer is greater than 0.7 mm, more preferably greater than 0.9 mm.

[0159] Preferably, the thickness of the at least one reinforcement layer is less than 1.6 mm, more preferably less than 1.3 mm.

[0160] In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the at least one reinforcement layer is between 0.7 mm and 1.6 mm, preferably between 0.9 mm and 1.3 mm.

[0161] The Applicant has observed that providing the aforementioned thickness values ​​helps to optimally meet the requirement of providing a layer of elastomeric material sufficient to ensure the desired mechanical properties and the desired geometry of the reinforcing layer, both radially externally and internally with respect to the hybrid reinforcing cords provided in the reinforcing layer. The Applicant considers that such a reinforcing layer must preferably have a thickness not less than 0.10 mm, more preferably not less than 0.15 mm, for example equal to 0.20 mm.

[0162] Preferably, said supporting structure comprises a carcass structure comprising at least one carcass ply having opposite end edges turned up around respective annular anchoring structures so as to define respective bead structures on opposite sides relative to the equatorial plane of the tyre.

[0163] Preferably, said supporting structure comprises a cross-belt structure arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the carcass structure and in a radially inner position with respect to the tread band.

[0164] Preferably, the cross-belt structure comprises at least two belt layers, which are arranged radially juxtaposed to each other.

[0165] Preferably, said supporting structure comprises at least one reinforcing layer associated with said at least one carcass layer at or near a respective turned-up end edge.

[0166] Preferably, said at least one reinforcing layer belongs to at least one belt layer of the cross-belt structure and / or to the aforementioned reinforcement layer. However, provision is made that said at least one reinforcing layer can belong to said at least one carcass layer.

[0167] Preferably, said at least one reinforcing layer may be associated with said at least one carcass layer at or near the respective bead structure.

[0168] Preferably, said at least one reinforcing layer may be interposed between the respective turned-up end edge of said at least one carcass layer and the respective bead structure.

[0169] More preferably, said at least one reinforcing layer may at least partially surround said bead structure.Such a reinforcing layer is also denoted by the term "flipper".

[0170] Alternatively or additionally, said at least one reinforcing layer may be associated with the respective turned-up end edge of said at least one carcass layer, in an axially outer position with respect to the respective annular anchoring structure.

[0171] More preferably, said at least one reinforcing layer may extend from said annular anchoring structure towards said tread band.Such a reinforcing layer is also denoted by the term "chafer".

[0172] The chafer may be arranged in an axially outer position or in an axially inner position relative to the end edge of the at least one carcass layer. In the case where the carcass structure comprises a plurality of carcass layers, for example two carcass layers, the chafer may be inserted between the respective end edges of the respective carcass layers.

[0173] Preferably, in all embodiments and all applications discussed above, the zero-degree reinforcement layer comprises non-hybrid reinforcement cords, thus being different from the hybrid reinforcement cords and hybrid textile reinforcement cords described above.

[0174] Preferably, such non-hybrid reinforcing cords comprise only monofilament textile threads or multifilament textile yarns, for example made of aramid or nylon.

[0175] However, embodiments are envisioned in which the zero-degree belt layer comprises hybrid reinforcement cords and / or hybrid textile reinforcement cords of the type described above.

[0176] In some embodiments, at least some of the hybrid textile reinforcement cords include at least one metal wire helically wound around the at least two second strands twisted together.

[0177] The aforementioned metal wire advantageously contributes to strengthening the hybrid textile reinforcing cord and keeping the at least two second strands firmly twisted with each other, without hindering the identification process by RFID actuation.

[0178] The winding direction of the metal wire on the at least two second strands twisted together may be consistent with or inconsistent with the twisting direction of the at least two second strands.

[0179] Preferably, the winding direction is opposite to the twisting direction of the at least two second strands.

[0180] Preferably, the metal wire is wound around the at least two second strands twisted together with a winding pitch greater than 2 mm, more preferably greater than 3.5 mm.

[0181] Preferably, the metal wire is wound around the at least two second strands twisted together with a winding pitch of less than 10 mm, more preferably less than 5 mm.

[0182] In a preferred embodiment, the metal wire is wound around the at least two second strands twisted together with a winding pitch of between 2 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 3.5 mm and 5 mm.

[0183] Preferably, the diameter of the metal wire is greater than 0.08 mm, more preferably greater than 0.10 mm.

[0184] Preferably, the diameter of the metal wire is less than 0.20 mm, more preferably less than 0.15 mm.

[0185] Preferably, the diameter of the metal wire is between 0.08 mm and 0.20 mm, more preferably between 0.10 mm and 0.15 mm.

[0186] Preferably, hybrid textile reinforcement cords comprising the above-mentioned metal wires are used in the cross-belt structure and / or in the aforementioned reinforcement layers.

[0187] Preferably, the filaments of the multifilament textile yarns of the hybrid reinforcement cords and hybrid textile reinforcement cords are coated with an adhesive substance or subjected to a chemical or physical tackifying treatment in order to further improve adhesion to the elastomeric material in which they are embedded or coated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0188] Other features and advantages of the tire of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0189] - Figure 1 is a schematic partial half-section view of a portion of a tire according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0190] - Figure 2 is Figure 1 A schematic side view of a section of an embodiment of a hybrid reinforcement cord for use in a tire of FIG.

[0191] - Figure 3 Belongs to Figure 2 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cross section of a first strand of a hybrid reinforcement cord;

[0192] - Figure 4 yes Figure 2 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cross section of a first embodiment of a hybrid reinforcement cord comprising Figure 3 The two first strands are the same as the strands of the first strand. Figure 2 This cross section is taken on the drawn section plane SS;

[0193] - Figure 5 Belongs to Figure 2 is an enlarged schematic diagram of a cross-section of a second strand of an alternative embodiment of a hybrid reinforcement cord;

[0194] - Figure 6 yes Figure 2 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cross section of a second embodiment of a hybrid reinforcement cord comprising Figure 3 The first line of the same stock and with Figure 5 The second line of the same line, in Figure 2 This cross section is taken from the drawn SS section;

[0195] - Figure 7 is Figure 1 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cross-section of a third embodiment of a hybrid reinforcement cord used in a tire;

[0196] - Figure 8 is Figure 1 An enlarged schematic diagram of a cross-section of a fourth embodiment of a hybrid reinforcing cord for use in a tire;

[0197] - Figure 9 It is available in Figure 1 A schematic side view of a section of an embodiment of a hybrid textile reinforcement cord for use in a tire of FIG.

[0198] - Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged schematic diagram of the cross section of the hybrid reinforcement cord, Figure 9 This cross section is taken on the drawn section plane SS;

[0199] - Figure 11 is Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of a hybrid textile reinforcement cord of FIG. 1 with portions of its components removed to illustrate other components that would otherwise be hidden;

[0200] - Figure 12 is Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a hybrid textile reinforcement cord having portions of its components removed to illustrate other components that would otherwise be hidden;

[0201] - Figure 13 is a schematic plan view of a preferred embodiment of a textile body comprising, for example, Figure 2The hybrid reinforcement cords and hybrid reinforcement cords such as Figure 9 Hybrid fabric reinforced cords. Hybrid fabric reinforced cords. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0202] To keep it simple, Figure 1 Only a portion of an exemplary embodiment of a tyre 100 according to the invention is shown, the remaining portions, not shown, being substantially identical and arranged symmetrically with respect to the equatorial plane MM of the tyre.

[0203] Figure 1 The tire 100 shown is particularly an embodiment of a tire for a four-wheeled vehicle.

[0204] Preferably, the tire 100 is a HP or UHP tire for sports and / or high performance or ultra high performance vehicles.

[0205] In particular, the tire 100 carries one of the following speed codes according to the ETRTO standard: "T", "U", "H", "V", "Z", "W", "Y".

[0206] exist Figure 1 , “a” denotes an axial direction, “c” denotes a radial direction, “MM” denotes an equatorial plane of the tire 100 , and “RR” denotes an axis of rotation of the tire 100 .

[0207] The tyre 100 comprises at least one supporting structure 100a and a tread band 109 made of elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the supporting structure 100a.

[0208] The supporting structure 100a comprises a carcass structure 101 comprising in turn at least one carcass layer 111 .

[0209] In the following, for simplicity of representation, reference will be made to an embodiment of a tire 100 comprising a single carcass layer 111. However, it will be understood that what has been described has analogous application in tires comprising more than one carcass layer.

[0210] The carcass layer 111 has axially opposite end edges engaged with respective annular anchoring structures 102, called bead wires, possibly associated with an elastomeric filler 104. The zone of the tyre 100 comprising the bead wires 102 and the possible elastomeric filler 104 forms an annular reinforcing structure 103, called “bead structure”, and intended to allow the tyre 100 to be anchored on a corresponding mounting rim, not shown.

[0211] The carcass layer 111 comprises a plurality of reinforcing cords 10a coated with an elastomeric material or embedded in a matrix of a crosslinked elastomeric material.

[0212] The carcass structure 101 is of the radial type, ie the reinforcing cords 10a are arranged in a plane including the axis of rotation RR of the tyre 100 and substantially perpendicular to the equatorial plane MM of the tyre 100 .

[0213] Each annular reinforcing structure 103 is associated with the carcass structure 101 by turning up (or turning up) the opposite end edges of at least one carcass ply 111 around the bead wire 102 and possibly the elastomeric filler 104 so as to form a so-called turn-up 101a of the carcass structure 101 .

[0214] In one embodiment, the coupling between the carcass structure 101 and the annular reinforcing structure 103 may be achieved by a second carcass layer ( Figure 1 is performed using a CMOS process (not shown).

[0215] A wear strip 105 is arranged at each annular reinforcement structure 103 to surround the annular reinforcement structure 103 along the axially inner region, the axially outer region, and the radially inner region of the annular reinforcement structure 103 so as to be located between the annular reinforcement structure and the rim of the wheel when the tire 100 is mounted on the rim. However, such a wear strip 105 may not be provided.

[0216] The support structure 100a comprises, in a radially outer position with respect to the carcass structure 101 , a cross-belt structure 106 comprising at least two belt layers 1061 , 1062 arranged radially juxtaposed to one another.

[0217] The belt layers 1061, 1062 each include a plurality of reinforcing cords 10b, 10c. Such reinforcing cords 10b, 10c are oriented at an angle of between 15° and 45°, preferably between 20° and 40°, relative to the circumferential direction of the tire 100 or relative to the equatorial plane MM of the tire 100. For example, such an angle is equal to 30°.

[0218] The support structure 100a may also include an additional belt layer (not shown), which is arranged between the carcass structure 101 and the radially innermost belt layer of the aforementioned belt layers 1061, 1062, and includes a plurality of reinforcing cords oriented with an angle of inclination equal to 90° relative to the circumferential direction of the tire 100 or the equatorial plane MM of the tire 100.

[0219] The support structure 100a may also include an additional belt layer (not shown), which is arranged in a radially outer position relative to the radially outermost belt layer of the above-mentioned belt layers 1061, 1062, and includes a plurality of reinforcing cords oriented with an angle of inclination between 20° and 70° relative to the circumferential direction of the tire 100 or the equatorial plane MM of the tire 100.

[0220] The reinforcing cords 10a, 10b of the belt layers 1061, 1062 are parallel to each other and have a crossed orientation with respect to the reinforcing cords of the other belt layer 1062, 1061.

[0221] In an ultra-high performance tire, the belt structure 106 can be a turned-up cross-belt structure. This belt structure is made by placing at least one belt layer on a support element and turning up the opposite lateral end edges of the at least one belt layer. Preferably, a first belt layer is first placed on the support element, then the support element is radially expanded, a second belt layer is subsequently placed on the first belt layer, and finally the opposite axial end edges of the first belt layer are turned up onto the second belt layer to at least partially cover the second belt layer, the second belt layer being the radially outermost layer. In some cases, a third belt layer can be arranged on the second belt layer. Advantageously, by turning up the axially opposite end edges of the belt layer on another belt layer arranged in a radially outer position of the first belt layer, the tire is provided with greater reactivity and responsiveness when cornering.

[0222] The support structure 100a comprises, in a radially outer position relative to the cross-belt structure 106, at least one zero-degree reinforcement layer 106c, generally referred to as a "zero-degree belt." It comprises reinforcing cords 10c oriented along a substantially circumferential direction. These reinforcing cords 10c thus form an angle of several degrees (generally less than 10°, for example, between 0° and 6°) relative to the equatorial plane MM of the tire 100.

[0223] The reinforcing cords 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d are coated with an elastomeric material or embedded in a matrix of a cross-linked elastomeric material.

[0224] A tread band 109 made of elastomeric material, as well as other semi-finished products making up the tyre 100 , is applied in a radially outer position relative to the zero-degree reinforcement 106 c .

[0225] Respective sidewalls 108 made of elastomeric material are also applied on the lateral surface of the carcass structure 101 in an axially outer position with respect to the carcass structure 101 itself. Each sidewall 108 extends from one of the lateral edges of the tread band 109 up to the respective annular reinforcing structure 103.

[0226] The wear strips 105 , if provided, extend at least as far as the respective side walls 108 .

[0227] In some specific embodiments, as shown and described herein, the stiffness of the sidewall 108 can be improved by providing a reinforcement layer 120, commonly referred to as a “wire traveler cover” or additional strip insert, which has the function of increasing the stiffness and integrity of the annular reinforcement structure 103 and the sidewall 108.

[0228] The bead filler 120 is wound around the corresponding bead wire 102 and the elastomeric filler 104 to at least partially surround the annular reinforcement structure 103. In particular, the bead filler 120 surrounds the annular reinforcement structure 103 along the axially inner region, the axially outer region and the radially inner region of the annular reinforcement structure 103.

[0229] The flyer 120 is arranged between the turned-up end edge of the carcass layer 111 and the corresponding annular reinforcement structure 103. Typically, the flyer 120 is in contact with the carcass layer 111 and the annular reinforcement structure 103.

[0230] In some specific embodiments, as shown and described herein, the bead structure 103 may also include an additional reinforcement layer 121 , generally referred to by the term “chafer” or protective strip, and having the function of increasing the stiffness and integrity of the annular reinforcement structure 103 .

[0231] The chafers 121 are associated with the respective turned-up end edge of the carcass layer 111 in an axially external position with respect to the respective annular reinforcing structure 103 and extend radially towards the sidewalls 108 and the tread band 109 .

[0232] The flipper 120 and the chafer 121 comprise reinforcing cords 10e coated with an elastomeric material or embedded in a matrix of a cross-linked elastomeric material (in the figures, those reinforcing cords of the flipper 120 are not visible).

[0233] The tread band 109 has, in its radially outer position, a rolling surface 109a intended to come into contact with the ground. Figure 1 ) are formed on the rolling surface 109a, these circumferential grooves being formed by transverse notches (not shown in FIG. Figure 1 ) are connected so as to define a plurality of blocks (not shown) of various shapes and sizes on the rolling surface 109a. Figure 1 shown in ).

[0234] The sub-layer 107 is arranged between the cross belt structure 106 and the tread band 109 .

[0235] In some particular embodiments, as shown and described herein, it is possible to provide strips 110 of elastomeric material, generally called “mini-sidewalls”, in the connecting zone between the sidewalls 108 and the tread band 109. The mini-sidewalls 110 are generally obtained by co-extrusion with the tread band 109 and allow an improved mechanical interaction between the tread band 109 and the sidewalls 108.

[0236] Preferably, the end portions of the sidewalls 108 directly cover the lateral edges of the tread band 109 .

[0237] In the case of a tubeless tire, a rubber layer 112 , generally called a “liner”, may also be provided in a radially inner position relative to the carcass layer 111 to provide the necessary impermeability to the inflation air of the tire 100 .

[0238] At least some of the reinforcing cords 10a (preferably all the reinforcing cords 10a provided in the carcass layer 111) and / or the reinforcing cords 10b, 10c (preferably all the reinforcing cords 10b provided in the belt layer 1061 and all the reinforcing cords 10c provided in the belt layer 1062, and in the case where the cross-belt structure 106 is a turned-up cross-belt structure) and / or the reinforcing cords 10e of the bead cover 120 and / or the bead cover 121 are Figure 2-6 The hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ is shown in FIG. 1 and described below.

[0239] On the other hand, the reinforcement cords 10 d are preferably non-hybrid reinforcement cords, ie they are made of a single textile material, preferably aramid or nylon.

[0240] refer to Figure 2-4 , the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ includes two strands 20 twisted with each other.

[0241] Preferably, the two strands 20 are identical. Therefore, only one of them will be described below, as in Figure 3 Shown in.

[0242] The strand 20 includes a single metal wire 21 and a multifilament textile yarn 22 defined by a plurality of filaments 23 twisted together.

[0243] The twisting pitch of the metal wires 21 and the multifilament textile yarns 22 is preferably identical to the twisting pitch P1 of the two strands 20. Such twisting pitch P1 is preferably comprised between 1 and 20 mm, more preferably between 2 and 15 mm, for example equal to 12.5 mm.

[0244] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cross-sections shown show that, in at least some of the cross-sections of the strands 20 and of the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′, the metal wires 21 are completely embedded in the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarns 22 .

[0245] The strand 20 may include more than one metal wire 21 embedded in the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarn 22 .

[0246] In particular, up to three metal wires 21 may be provided for each strand 20 , preferably up to two metal wires 21 , even more preferably a single metal wire 21 may be provided for each strand 20 .

[0247] exist Figure 2-4 In the embodiment shown, the metal wires 21 are completely embedded in the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarns 22 in at least some of the cross sections of the strands 20 and the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′, and thus the aforementioned filaments 23 are arranged around the metal wires 21 to completely surround them.

[0248] therefore, Figure 2 The hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ has at least one portion of the cord (or cord segment) in which the metal wire 21 is not visible because it is completely covered or completely surrounded by the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarns 22 .

[0249] although Figure 2-4 An embodiment is particularly preferred in which the metal wires 21 are completely embedded in the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarns 22 in at least some of the cross sections of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′, but an embodiment is equally preferred in which, in any cross section of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′, the metal wires 21 are only partially embedded in the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarns 22, and in particular in which at least 50% of the outer surface of the metal wires 21 are embedded in the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarns 22.

[0250] The metal wire 21 is made of steel, while the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarn 22 are made of aromatic polyamide fibers, or aliphatic polyamide fibers, such as nylon 6, nylon 6.6, nylon 4.6, nylon 4.10, nylon 10.10, nylon 11, nylon 12, nylon 6.10, nylon 6.12, or polyester fibers, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene isophthalate (PEI), or polyketone fibers, or polyvinyl alcohol fibers, or cellulosic fibers, such as rayon or lyocell fibers, or glass or carbon fibers, or any mixture of the above fibers, or an aggregate of mixed fibers comprising two or more of the materials listed above. In the case of composite fibers, the fibers of the filaments 23 may, for example, include:

[0251] - 50% aramid with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex and 50% PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex;

[0252] - 43% of aramid with a linear density equal to 840 dtex and 57% of PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex;

[0253] - 33% of aramid with a linear density equal to 550 dtex and 67% of PET with a linear density equal to 1100 dtex.

[0254] Regardless of the specific type of fabric material used for the filaments 23 of the multifilament fabric yarn 22, the surface of this material is appropriately tackified to provide sufficient adhesion to the surrounding elastomeric material. Typically, tackification can be performed by coating with a sticky substance or by chemical or physical treatment.

[0255] For example, the tackifying treatment is performed by dipping the hybrid reinforcing cord 10' into a solution comprising a viscous substance after the two strands 20 have been twisted together. In this case, even possible portions of the metal wires 21 directly exposed to the surrounding elastomeric material are tackified.

[0256] The diameter of the metal wires 21 is preferably between 0.10 mm and 0.45 mm, more preferably between 0.15 mm and 0.40 mm, depending on the area of ​​the tire 100 where the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′ are arranged and how preferred the performance of the tire 100 is relative to its weight.

[0257] The linear density of the multifilament textile yarns 22 is preferably between 400 and 4000 dtex, preferably between 800 and 2500 dtex, depending on the material from which the multifilament textile yarns are made and the region of the tire 100 in which the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′ are arranged.

[0258] In some preferred embodiments, the diameter of the metal wire 21 is equal to 0.22 mm and the linear density of the multifilament textile yarn 22 is equal to 1680 dtex.

[0259] Figure 2 and Figure 4 A hybrid reinforcement cord 10' is shown that includes only two strands 20. However, alternative embodiments are envisioned in which the hybrid reinforcement cord 10' includes a single strand 20 (in which case the hybrid reinforcement cord 10' would coincide with the strand 20, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown) or more than two strands 20, for example up to four strands 20.

[0260] The strands 20 may be equal to each other, such as Figure 4 In this case, the metal wires 21 of each strand 20 are at least partially embedded in the filaments 23 of the corresponding multifilament textile yarn 22 in at least some of the cross sections of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′.

[0261] Alternatively, as Figure 6 As shown, one of the two strands of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10' is identical to the strand 20 described above, while the other strand is a strand 30 made entirely of textile material, such as Figure 5 Type shown.

[0262] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The strands 30 include monofilament textile threads 31 twisted to multifilament textile yarns 32 such that the monofilament textile threads 31 are partially embedded in filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarns 32 in at least some of the cross sections of the strands 30 and the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′.

[0263] The twist pitch of the monofilament textile thread 31 and the multifilament textile yarn 32 is preferably the same as the twist pitch P1 of the two strands 20 and 30. Such twist pitch P1 is preferably between 1 mm and 20 mm, more preferably between 2 mm and 15 mm, for example equal to 12.5 mm.

[0264] If you can from Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can be seen in the cross-section shown, in at least some of the cross-sections of the strands 30 and the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′, the monofilament textile threads 31 are completely embedded in the filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarns 32 .

[0265] The strand 30 may include more than one monofilament textile thread 31 embedded in the filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarn 32 .

[0266] In particular, up to three monofilament textile threads 31 , preferably up to two monofilament textile threads 31 , and even more preferably a single monofilament textile thread 31 may be provided for each strand 30 .

[0267] exist Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the monofilament textile thread 31 is completely embedded in the filaments 33 of the metal yarn 32 in at least some of the cross sections of the strands 30 and the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′, and thus, the aforementioned filaments 33 are arranged around the monofilament textile thread 31 to completely surround the monofilament textile thread 31.

[0268] therefore, Figure 6 The hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ has at least one portion (or section) of the cord in which the monofilament textile thread 31 is not visible because it is completely covered or completely surrounded by the filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarn 32 .

[0269] although Figure 5-6 An embodiment in which the monofilament textile thread 31 is completely embedded in the filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarn 32 in at least some of the cross sections of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ is particularly preferred, but an embodiment in which the monofilament textile thread 31 is only partially embedded in the filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarn 32 in any cross section of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ is equally preferred, and in particular in which at least 50% of the outer surface of the monofilament textile thread 31 is embedded in the filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarn 32.

[0270] The monofilament textile thread 31 is made of aliphatic polyamide fibers, such as nylon 6, nylon 6.6, nylon 4.6, nylon 4.10, nylon 10.10, nylon 11, nylon 12, nylon 6.10, nylon 6.12, or polyester fibers, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene isophthalate (PEI), or polyaryletherketone fibers, such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or a mixture thereof.

[0271] The filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarn 32 are preferably made from materials selected from those indicated above with respect to the filaments 23 of the multifilament textile yarn 22 of the strand 20 .

[0272] The filaments 33 of the multifilament textile yarns 32 are also appropriately treated on the surface with an adhesive in order to provide sufficient adhesion to the surrounding elastomeric material. If the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ is subjected to a tackifying treatment by immersing it in a bath containing an adhesive substance after the two strands 20 and 30 have been twisted together, any portions of the monofilament textile threads 31 that are directly exposed to the surrounding elastomeric material are also tackified.

[0273] The diameter of the monofilament textile cords 31 is preferably between 0.10 mm and 0.70 mm, more preferably between 0.15 mm and 0.50 mm, also depending on the material of which the monofilament textile cords are made and the area of ​​the tire 100 in which the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′ are arranged.

[0274] The linear density of the multifilament textile yarns 32 is preferably between 400 and 4000 dtex, preferably between 800 and 2500 dtex, also depending on the material from which the multifilament textile yarns are made and the area of ​​the tire 100 in which the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′ are arranged.

[0275] In some preferred embodiments, the diameter of the monofilament textile thread 31 is equal to 0.40 mm and the linear density of the multifilament textile yarn 32 is equal to 1680 dtex.

[0276] Preferably, the multifilament textile yarns 32 of strand 30 are the same as the multifilament textile yarns 22 of strand 20 .

[0277] The monofilament textile yarn 31 may or may not be twisted with itself before being twisted to the multifilament textile yarn 32. If twisted with itself, the twist pitch of the monofilament textile yarn 31 is preferably the same as the twist pitch of the monofilament textile yarn 31 and the multifilament textile yarn 32.

[0278] The multifilament textile yarn 32 may or may not be twisted with itself before being twisted to the at least one monofilament textile yarn 31. If twisted with itself, the twist pitch of the multifilament textile yarn 32 is also preferably the same as the twist pitch of the monofilament textile yarn 31 and the multifilament textile yarn 32.

[0279] although Figure 5 and Figure 6 A hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ is shown comprising two strands 20 and 30 , but alternative embodiments are envisioned wherein the hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ comprises a single strand 20 and more than one strand 30 , or a single strand 30 and more than one strand 20 , or multiple strands 20 and multiple strands 30 .

[0280] For example, Figure 7 An embodiment of a hybrid reinforcing cord 10' is shown which comprises two strands 20 twisted together into a strand 30, while Figure 8 A different embodiment of a hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ is shown that includes two strands 30 twisted together to strand 20 . Figure 7 and Figure 8 The empty space at the center of the hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ shown would in practice be occupied by the filaments 23 and 33 of the multifilament textile yarns 22 and 32 .

[0281] In the case where the hybrid reinforcing cord 10' comprises more than one strand 30, the strands 30 may be equal to each other, such as Figure 8 In this case, the monofilament textile threads 31 of each strand 30 are at least partially embedded in the filaments 33 of the corresponding multifilament textile yarns 32 in at least some of the cross sections of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′.

[0282] In a particular embodiment, only the reinforcing cord 10a and not the reinforcing cords 10b, 10c and 10e or vice versa is a hybrid reinforcing cord 10' of the type described above.

[0283] In other particular embodiments, only the reinforcing cord 10b and not the reinforcing cords 10a, 10c, 10e or vice versa is a hybrid reinforcing cord 10' of the type described above.

[0284] In some embodiments, only the reinforcing cords 10b and / or 10c, but not the reinforcing cords 10a and 10e, are hybrid reinforcing cords 10' of the type described above.

[0285] In still other embodiments, only the reinforcing cord 10e, rather than the reinforcing cords 10a, 10b and / or 10c, is a hybrid reinforcing cord 10' of the type described above.

[0286] When the reinforcing cord 10e is a hybrid reinforcing cord 10' of the type described above, such a hybrid reinforcing cord 10' can be used only in the bead cover 120 (if provided and when no bead cover is provided or a bead cover is provided and the bead cover includes a non-hybrid reinforcing cord), only in the bead cover 121 (if provided and when no bead cover is provided or a bead cover is provided and the bead cover includes a non-hybrid reinforcing cord), or in both the bead cover 120 and the bead cover 121 (if both are provided).

[0287] In a particularly preferred embodiment, hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′ are used at least in the belt layers 1061 , 1062 of the cross-belt structure 106 .

[0288] In some embodiments, the reinforcement layer in which the hybrid reinforcement cords 10 ′ are provided includes only the hybrid reinforcement cords 10 ′.

[0289] In other embodiments, the reinforcing layer in which the hybrid reinforcing cord 10' is provided is a hybrid reinforcing layer that includes, in addition to the above-mentioned hybrid reinforcing cord 10', for example, the following reference Figure 9-1 2 hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10".

[0290] exist Figure 9 and Figure 10 In the particular example shown, the hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10" comprises only textile strands. In particular, the hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10" comprises two strands 30, which are identical to those described above with reference to FIG. Figure 5-8 The strands 30 described above are identical. Figure 5-8 The description of the strands 30 of the hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ also applies to the strands 30 of the hybrid textile reinforcement cord 10 ″.

[0291] The two strands 30 are twisted with each other at a twisting pitch P2 which is preferably the same as the twisting pitch P1 described above.

[0292] Preferably, the two strands 30 are identical to each other.

[0293] Figure 10 An embodiment of a hybrid textile reinforcement cord 10 ″ is shown in which the monofilament textile threads 31 of the two strands 30 are not twisted around themselves.

[0294] FIG11 shows an embodiment of a hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10 ″ in which the monofilament textile threads 31 of two strands 30 are twisted around themselves at a predetermined twisting pitch T.

[0295] Preferably, the torsion pitch T is the same as the twisting pitch P2.

[0296] The twist direction of the monofilament textile thread 31 may be the same as or opposite to the twist direction of the two strands 30 .

[0297] Figure 9-1 2 shows a hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10" comprising only two strands 30. However, alternative embodiments are envisioned in which the hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10" comprises a single strand 30 (in which case the hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10" would be Figure 5 ) or more than two strands 30 , such as up to four strands 30 .

[0298] The thread count of the reinforcement layer in which the hybrid reinforcement cords 10 ′ and possibly the hybrid textile reinforcement cords 10 ″ are provided is preferably between 50 cords / dm and 100 cords / dm, more preferably between 60 cords / dm and 85 cords / dm.

[0299] The thickness of such a reinforcement layer is preferably between 0.7 mm and 1.6 mm, more preferably between 0.9 mm and 1.3 mm.

[0300] The hybrid reinforcement cords 10' and the hybrid textile reinforcement cords 10" may form part of a textile member 50, such as for example Figure 13 Textile pieces shown.

[0301] The textile member 30 comprises a plurality of elongated weft elements 51 (in Figure 13 and a plurality of elongated longitudinal elements 52 (indicated by vertical lines in FIG. Figure 13 indicated by horizontal lines).

[0302] The elongated weft elements 51 are made of nylon or cotton.

[0303] The elongated warp elements 52 may be defined solely by the hybrid reinforcing cords 10' described above, or by Figure 13 As shown, it is defined by the above-mentioned hybrid reinforcement cords 10 ′ and the above-mentioned hybrid textile reinforcement cords 10 ″ to define a “hybrid” textile element 50 in this case.

[0304] In particular, Figure 13 In the embodiment shown, one hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ is provided for every nine hybrid textile reinforcement cords 10 ″. However, a textile element 50 is foreseen in which each hybrid reinforcement cord 10 ′ is inserted between two hybrid textile reinforcement cords 10 ″ or is arranged after a predetermined number of hybrid textile reinforcement cords 10 ″ which may be less than or equal to 30.

[0305] The textile piece 50 is intended to be embedded in the elastomeric material in a subsequent calendering step so as to define the aforementioned reinforcement layer.

[0306] In a preferred embodiment of the textile element 50, each hybrid reinforcing cord 10' comprises three strands twisted together, specifically:

[0307] - two strands 30 , each comprising a PET monofilament textile thread 31 with a diameter equal to 0.40 mm and a PET multifilament textile yarn 32 with a linear density equal to 1680 dtex;

[0308] - a strand 20 comprising a steel metal wire 21 with a diameter equal to 0.22 mm and a PET multifilament textile yarn 22 with a linear density equal to 1680 dtex.

[0309] This hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ thus has a construction of the type (steel 0.22+PET 1680)+(PET 0.40 mm+PET 1680)×2. The diameter of this hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ is equal to about 0.93 mm. Hereinafter, this cord is denoted CORDINV1.

[0310] In the above-described embodiment of the textile element 50 , each hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10 ″ comprises three strands 30 twisted together, each strand comprising a PET monofilament textile thread 31 with a diameter equal to 0.40 mm and a multifilament textile yarn 32 with a linear density equal to 1680 dtex.

[0311] This hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10 ″ therefore has a structure of the (PET 0.40 mm+PET 1680)×3 type. In the following, this cord is indicated as CORD2.

[0312] The Applicant has demonstrated that, due to the provision of the textile element 50 as described above in the cross-belt structure 106, the weight of the tire increases by no more than 10 grams (gr.) relative to a corresponding tire having monofilament textile yarns in the belt structure 106 instead of metal wires, and that this is therefore quite acceptable in cases where performance improvements are sought and processability is desired in current industrial tire equipment.

[0313] Comparative testing

[0314] The applicant has conducted comparative tests between the cord CORDINV1, the cord CORD2, a conventional metal reinforcement cord comprising two 0.28 mm steel wires used in the cross-belt structure of the applicant's commercialized sports tire (hereinafter identified as CORD1), a hybrid reinforcement cord 10' (hereinafter identified as CORDINV2) which differs from CORDINV1 only in that it comprises two strands 20 and a strand 30, and a hybrid reinforcement cord 10' which differs from the cord CORDINV1 only in that it comprises three strands 20 and no strands 30.

[0315] Table 1 below shows the diameters and weights of the above-mentioned reinforcing cords.

[0316]

[0317] Table 1

[0318] It can already be noted how the diameter of such reinforcing cords decreases as the number of metal wires (CORDINV1, CORDINV2 and CORDINV3) increases, compared to the number of monofilament textile threads present in the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′. This is because the diameter of the metal wires used (equal to 0.22 mm) is smaller than the diameter of the monofilament textile threads (equal to 0.40 mm). In any case, the diameter of the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′ (CORDINV1, CORDINV2 and CORDINV3) remains substantially equal to or smaller than the diameter of the hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10 ″ (CORD2). Therefore, the textile element 50 containing both the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ and the hybrid textile reinforcing cord 10 ″ does not have noticeable irregularities caused by the presence of the different reinforcing cords.

[0319] It can also be noted how the weight of the reinforcing cords increases as the number of metal wires in the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′ (CORDINV1, CORDINV2 and CORDINV3) increases compared to the conventional metallic reinforcing cords (CORD1). Nevertheless, this weight increase remains very small and is therefore completely acceptable, especially in cases where tire performance is prioritized over a more limited increase in weight, as would be obtained if only the hybrid textile reinforcing cords 10 ″ (CORD2) were used.

[0320] In order to evaluate the suitability of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ for its use in belt structures, the reinforcing cord was subjected to a traction test (to evaluate the breaking load) and a bending or vertical stiffness test (to evaluate the ability to withstand bending stresses).

[0321] The traction test was performed according to the method BISFA E6 (The International Bureau For The Standardization Of Man-Made Fibres, Internationally Agreed Methods For Testing Steel Tire Cords, 1995 edition).

[0322] In the stiffness test, all the reinforcing cords mentioned above were subjected to the following ring compression test: the reinforcing cords were treated with an adhesive and then folded to connect the opposite ends to form corresponding rings with a diameter of 80 mm. These rings were subjected to an initial pre-tension of 0.5 N and a compression of 25 mm at a compression speed of 100 mm / min.

[0323] The results of these tests are given in Table 2 below.

[0324] CORD1 CORD2 CORDINV1 CORDINV2 CORDINV3 Breaking load [N] 405 450 380 400 470 Stiffness [N] 0.13 0.06 0.09 0.10 0.11

[0325] Table 2

[0326] It can already be noted that the hybrid reinforcing cords 10 ′ ( CORDINV1 , CORDINV2 , CORDINV3 ) have breaking load and stiffness values ​​absolutely comparable to those of the conventional metallic reinforcing cord ( CORD1 ), approaching the values ​​of the latter as the number of metal wires provided in the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ increases.

[0327] The foregoing tests have therefore confirmed the suitability of the hybrid reinforcing cord 10 ′ of the present invention for use in the belt structure of a tire.

[0328] The invention has been described with reference to some preferred embodiments. Various modifications may be made to the embodiments described above while remaining within the scope of protection of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tyre (100) for a vehicle wheel, comprising a support structure (100a) and a tread band (109) arranged in a radially outer position relative to the support structure (100a), wherein the support structure (100a) comprises at least one reinforcing layer (111; 1061; 1062； 120; 121), the reinforcement layer includes a plurality of hybrid reinforcement cords (10'), wherein each hybrid reinforcement cord (10') of the plurality of hybrid reinforcement cords includes at least one first strand (20), the first strand including at least one metal wire (21) and a first multifilament textile yarn (22) comprising a plurality of filaments (23) twisted together, wherein in any cross-section of at least some of the hybrid reinforcement cords (10'), the at least one metal wire (21) is at least partially embedded in the filaments (23) of the first multifilament textile yarn (22).

2. The tire (100) according to claim 1, wherein said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords (10') comprise at least one portion of the cord where said at least one metal wire (21) is completely surrounded by said filaments (23) of said first multifilament textile yarn (22).

3. The tire (100) of claim 1, wherein said at least some hybrid reinforcement cords (10') comprise: A single first hybrid strand (20) comprising x metal wires (21); or n first hybrid strands (20) twisted together and each comprising x metal wires (21); wherein n is a number between 2 and 4, and x is a number between 1 and 3.

4. The tire (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first strand (20) is twisted together with at least one second strand (30), the second strand comprising at least one monofilament textile thread (31) and a second multifilament textile yarn (32) comprising a plurality of filaments (33) twisted together, wherein in any cross section of the at least one second strand (30), the at least one monofilament textile thread (31) is at least partially embedded in the filaments (33) of the second multifilament textile yarn (32).

5. The tire (100) according to claim 4, wherein at least some of the hybrid reinforcing cords (10') comprise m second strands (30) twisted together with the at least one first strand (20), and each of the second strands comprises y monofilament textile threads (31), wherein m is a number between 1 and 4, and y is a number between 1 and 3.

6. The tire (100) according to claim 1, wherein the diameter of the at least one metal wire (21) is between 0.10 mm and 0.45 mm, and the linear density of the first multifilament textile yarns (22) is between 400 dtex and 4000 dtex.

7. The tire (100) according to claim 1, wherein said at least one metal wire (21) is made of steel.

8. The tire (100) according to claim 1, wherein the filaments (23) of the first multifilament textile yarn (22) are made of fibers selected from the group consisting of aromatic polyamide fibers, aliphatic polyamide fibers, polyester fibers, polyketone fibers, polyvinyl alcohol fibers, cellulose fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers, or mixtures thereof.

9. The tire (100) of claim 1, wherein the plurality of hybrid reinforcing cords (10') belongs to a textile piece (50) having a plurality of elongated weft elements (51) and a plurality of elongated warp elements (52).

10. The tire (100) according to claim 9, wherein said at least some hybrid reinforcing cords (10') belong to said plurality of elongated warp elements (52).

11. The tire (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one reinforcing layer (111; 1061; 1062; 120; 121) comprises a plurality of hybrid textile reinforcing cords (10"), each of the hybrid textile reinforcing cords comprising at least one respective strand (30), the strand comprising at least one monofilament textile thread (31) and a respective multifilament textile yarn (32) comprising a plurality of filaments (33) twisted together, wherein in any cross-section of at least some of the hybrid textile reinforcing cords (10"), the at least one monofilament textile thread (31) is at least partially embedded in the filaments (33) of the respective multifilament textile yarn (32).

12. The tire (100) according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of hybrid reinforcing cords (10') belong to a textile piece (50) having a plurality of elongated weft elements (51) and a plurality of elongated warp elements (52), wherein at least some of the hybrid textile reinforcing cords (10") belong to the plurality of elongated warp elements (52).

13. The tire (100) according to claim 12, wherein said textile element comprises at least one of said hybrid reinforcing cords (10') for every z hybrid textile reinforcing cords (10"), wherein z is a number between 1 and 30.

14. The tire (100) according to claim 1, wherein the support structure (100a) comprises: a carcass structure (101) comprising at least one carcass ply (111) having opposite end edges (101a) turned up around respective annular anchoring structures (102) so as to define respective bead structures (103) on opposite sides relative to the equatorial plane (MM) of the tyre (100); - a cross-belt structure (106) arranged in a radially outer position with respect to said carcass structure (101) and in a radially inner position with respect to said tread band (109); wherein the at least one enhancement layer is at least one of the following: - said at least one carcass layer (111); - at least one belt layer (1061, 1062) of the cross-belt structure (106); - at least one reinforcing layer (120, 121) associated with said at least one carcass layer (111) at or near the respective turned-up end edge (101a).

15. A hybrid reinforcing cord (10'), comprising at least one first strand (20), the first strand comprising at least one metal wire (21) and a multifilament textile yarn (22) comprising a plurality of filaments (23) twisted together, wherein in any cross section of the hybrid reinforcing cord (10'), the at least one metal wire (21) is at least partially embedded in the filaments (23) of the multifilament textile yarn (22).

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