Segmented wheel protector

Abstract

The present invention provides a protector for a tire, the protector being formed by a plurality of segments. Each segment is formed of a synthetic material and has an arcuate distal edge having a first radius, the distal edge extending beyond the distal edge of the wheel. Each segment has at least two spoke adjacent edges and an arcuate proximal edge having a second radius that is less than the first radius. In some embodiments, the proximal edge defines a hook for engaging a recess of the vehicle. Each spoke adjacent edge is configured to reside near a spoke of the wheel during use. In some embodiments, a protrusion extending from a lip serves as a pinch point when the tire deforms during an impact event.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a wheel protector. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a segmented wheel protector that is easy to install. Background Art

[0002] Wheels made of aluminum or other metals are scratched and replacement / repair can be very expensive. Generally, existing wheel protectors have a negative impact on the appearance of the wheels and are difficult to install and remove. What is needed is an attractive low-cost wheel protector that can be easily installed. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention are shown by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements. It should be noted that different references to "an" or "one" embodiment in this disclosure are not necessarily to the same embodiment, and such references mean at least one.

[0004] Figure 1 is a front view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0005] Figure 2 is a rear view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0006] Figure 3 is a contour view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0007] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a wheel installed with a segmented wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] Figure 5 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view taken along section A-A for Figure 4

[0010] Figure 6B is Figure 6A an enlarged view of the circled portion of

[0011] Figure 7A is a cross-sectional view taken along section B-B for Figure 4

[0012] Figure 7B is Figure 7A an enlarged view of the circled portion of

[0013] Figure 8 Front view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 9 Rear view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 10 Contour view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 11 Front view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 12 Rear view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 13 Contour view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 14 Front view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 15 Rear view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 16 Contour view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 17A Cross-sectional view taken along section A-A of an alternative embodiment of a segmented wheel protector installed for Figure 4 ...

[0023] Figure 17B ... Figure 17A Enlarged view of the circled portion of...

[0024] Figure 18 Rear perspective view of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 19 Cross-sectional view of a section of... installed on a wheel Figure 18 ...

[0026] Figure 20 Enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the area identified in... when the tire is in an uncompressed state Figure 19 ...

[0027] Figure 21 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a region identified in Figure 19 when the tire is in a compressed state.

[0028] Figures 22 to 23 is a film sheet used in conjunction with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 24 is an exploded view of a section, a film insert, and a wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Embodiments of the present invention provide a segmented wheel protector for an automotive wheel. Some embodiments provide a section for each spoke on the wheel. At least one section can accommodate a valve stem for a tire on the wheel. In some embodiments, a single section can be replaced independently of other sections that collectively protect the wheel.

[0031] All definitions defined and used herein should be understood to control dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or the ordinary meaning of the defined terms.

[0032] As used herein, the indefinite articles "a" and "an" in the specification and claims should be understood to mean "at least one" unless explicitly stated to the contrary.

[0033] As used herein, the phrase "and / or" in the specification and claims should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so combined, i.e., elements that exist conjointly in some cases and separately in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be interpreted in the same way, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so combined. Elements other than those specifically identified by the "and / or" clause may optionally exist, whether related or unrelated to the specifically identified elements. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B", when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising...", can in one embodiment refer only to A (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, only to B (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); and so on.

[0034] As used herein in the specification and claims, "or" shall be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or" as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and / or" shall be interpreted inclusively, i.e., including at least one of many or a list of elements, but also including more than one, and optionally, additional unlisted items. Only expressly stated contrary terms, such as "only one" or "exactly one", or, when used in a claim, "consisting of" will refer to including exactly one element of many or a list of elements. In general, the term "or" as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating an exclusive alternative (i.e., "one or the other but not both") before an exclusive term, such as "either", "one of", "only one of", or "exactly one". "Consisting essentially of" as used in a claim shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0035] As used herein in the specification and claims, the phrase "at least one", when used in reference to a list of one or more elements, shall be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed in the list of elements, and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows elements optionally to exist other than those specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to those specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B", or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); and so forth.

[0036] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having", "containing", "involving", "holding", "composed of", and the like shall be understood to be open-ended, i.e., meaning including but not limited to. As set forth in Section 2111.03 of the United States Patent and Trademark Office's Manual of Patent Examining Procedure, only the transitional phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

[0037] Figure 1 A front view of a segment of a segmented wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention. The segmented wheel protector uses a plurality of segments 100 to protect the rim of a wheel from curb and other impact-related damage, which is not only unsightly but also expensive to repair. The segments 100 also have the advantage of hiding pre-existing damage to the wheel. In the illustrated embodiment, each segment 100 has an arcuate distal edge 102, which has a radius that is only slightly larger than the radius of the wheel (on which the segment 100 is intended to be used). The segment 100 also has an arcuate proximal edge 104, which has a radius that is smaller than the radius of the distal edge 102. As used herein, "distal" and "proximal", when modifying "edge", refer to the position relative to the axle of the wheel when the segment is installed.

[0038] The distal edge 102 forms a lip (as Figure 3 shown), which engages the rim of the wheel in use to hold the segment 100 in place. The distal edge 102 has an inter-spoke section 112 and a spoke-on section 114. The spoke-on section 114 terminates in a tapered end 116, which is configured to be located below the inter-spoke section of an adjacent segment during installation. The proximal edge 104 defines a hook 222 (shown better in Figure 3 ), which engages an inner wheel recess to hold the segment 100 on the wheel.

[0039] To install the segment 100, the hook 222 is first engaged within an inner wheel recess between a pair of adjacent spokes. Then, the lip 220 snaps onto the rim of the wheel. The snap fit ensures easy installation and secure retention of the segment 100. Subsequent segments snap into place, where the corresponding notch 216 of the current segment 100-n+1 overlaps the tapered end 116 of the immediately adjacent segment 100-n. For the last segment, the tapered end 116 of the segment 100 is inserted under its intended adjacent segment before the lip is snapped onto the rim and the tapered end of another immediately adjacent segment.

[0040] The segment 100 has a first spoke-adjacent edge 106 and a second spoke-adjacent edge 108. The body 110 of the segment 100 resides between two spokes of the wheel during installation, such that the spoke-adjacent edges are close to two immediately adjacent spokes. As used herein, "close" should be considered to mean residing within 0 - 7 mm of the spokes. In some embodiments, the body 110 has a surface profile that closely matches the profile of the underlying wheel. In some embodiments, there is an equal number of spokes and segments 100. In some embodiments, all segments 100 are substantially the same, except for one difference, which is that it defines a hole (not shown in this figure) for accommodating the valve stem of a tire on the wheel.

[0041] The section 100 can be formed of polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or other suitable synthetic materials. ABS has the desired strength and flexibility characteristics for use as a wheel protector. ABS can be easily produced in different colors. The section 100 can be injection molded or otherwise formed as a single integral unit. In some embodiments, the ABS can be painted or coated to more closely match the color of the wheel on which it will be used or any desired color. In other embodiments, colorants can be added during molding to give the section 100 the desired color without further processing. By matching the color of the wheel, the section remains unobtrusive. Some users may want to dress up their wheels with more vibrant colors. Any coloring is considered within the scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 is a rear view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the lip 220 can be seen. The distal edge 102 also defines a receiving notch 216 that receives the tapered end 116 of an adjacent section when installed. In some embodiments, the tapered end 116 and the notch 216 can be omitted in cases where the section only abuts the edges of each adjacent section. However, the male / female interconnection of the tapered end 116 and the notch 216 increases the structural stability of the embodiments in which they are present. In addition, they accommodate smaller rigid manufacturing tolerances.

[0043] In some embodiments, the wheel-facing surface 210 can have an adhesive area 224 located thereon to further secure the section during installation. Some embodiments can have additional adhesive areas 226 located within the spoke upper section 114. One embodiment uses a VHB-5925 double-sided foam tape commercially available from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA. The foam tape has the advantage of absorbing dimensional differences between the section 100 and the wheel. Other embodiments can use other pressure-sensitive adhesives. The adhesive further glues the section to the wheel. This is particularly advantageous in cases where multiple impact events may occur to the section 100 before the section 100 or the entire wheel protector is replaced. Tests have shown that sections that break or are damaged due to impact events typically remain on the wheel when an adhesive layer is used.

[0044] Figure 3It is a contour view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the hook 222 is readily visible. In some embodiments, the hook 222 has a relatively narrow mouth 302 and a wider bottom 304. This allows the hook 222 to better engage the recess of the wheel. The mouth width is selected to be slightly less than the thickness between the proximal spokes of the wheel. The depth of the hook (the distance from the mouth to the bottom) is selected to accommodate manufacturing variations of the wheel. The wheel geometry of the same type of wheel can vary by up to 5 mm. The resiliency of the mouth and hook depth accommodates these variations and provides a secure engagement.

[0045] Matching the outer contour of the body 110 to the wheel contour improves the visual appearance of the installed wheel protector. It also reduces the negative aerodynamic consequences that might otherwise occur. Although not visible once installed, shaping the inner wheel-facing surface 210 to match the wheel contour improves adhesion when providing the adhesive area 224.

[0046] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of a wheel with a segmented wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention installed thereon. The wheel 402 has a plurality of spokes, for example, spokes 404-1, 404-2, 404-3, ten in this example. There are ten sections that collectively cover the entire perimeter of the wheel 402: sections 100-1 to 100-9 (collectively referred to as sections 100) and the valve section 400. All sections are substantially the same except for the valve section 400, which differs from the other sections only in that it defines a hole 420 for receiving the valve (not shown) of the tire on the wheel 402. Although embodiments can use all the same sections for each section to accommodate the valve stem, a single valve section 400 is considered to provide a more aesthetic appearance. Some wheel models may not require any section to accommodate the valve stem.

[0047] In some embodiments, the sections can be formed by molding a plurality of sections 100 into a single integral unit. For example, in some embodiments, sections 100-1 and 100-2 can be molded as a single unit spanning two spokes, or sections 100-1, 100-2, and 100-3 can be integrally molded as a section spanning three spokes. Generally, a larger number of sections facilitates the installation of the protector on the wheel.

[0048] Each segment 100-n has a body that resides between two adjacent spokes 404-n and 404-m. For example, body 110-1 resides between spoke 404-1 and spoke 404-2. Adjacent spokes as used herein are immediately adjacent spokes. For example, spoke 404-1 is adjacent to spoke 404-2 but not adjacent to spoke 404-3. The adjacent edges 106-1 and 108-1 of segment 100-1 reside near spoke 404-2 and spoke 404-1, respectively, and preferably abut spoke 404-2 and spoke 404-1. When an impact event occurs, such as striking a curb, the impacted segment 100 absorbs the impact and transfers some of the lateral force to the adjacent spokes. As a result, the segment remains in place with less force required for the hooks 222 and lips 220 to engage the wheel 402.

[0049] Although the wheel 402 has a uniform spoke pattern that allows all segments 100 to be substantially the same, some wheels have a spoke pattern in which (for example) some spoke pairs are relatively close together and are spaced further apart from other spoke pairs. Thus, in some embodiments, adjacent segments can be geometrically significantly different to accommodate different spoke patterns.

[0050] Figure 5 is a side perspective view of a partially assembled wheel protector according to an embodiment of the present invention. The wheel is not shown in this figure for clarity. In Figure 5 the overlapping relationship of adjacent segments 100 is shown. To add the last segment 100-2, the tapered end 116-2 is inserted to reside in the notch 216-3 of the adjacent segment 100-3. Then, the notch 216-2 covers the tapered end 116-1 of another adjacent segment 100-1. The staggering of the tapered ends and notches is repeated around the perimeter of the protector.

[0051] Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view taken along section A-A for Figure 4 . Figure 6A shows the relationship between the inter-spoke portion of segment 100-4 and the rim 602 of the wheel 402. Figure 6B is Figure 6AEnlarged view of the circled portion. The hook 222 is clamped to the wheel by the free end of the hook residing in the recess 606 of the wheel 402. The lip 220 of the distal edge 102 snap-fits onto the rim 602 of the wheel 402. The rim edge 602 is rolled off in an arc. In order to maintain a secure attachment, the lip 220 must engage below the edge 602. That is, the distal edge 102 extends slightly further from the axis of rotation of the wheel than the edge 602, and the lip 220 engages the wheel 402 closer to the axis of rotation than the edge 602. The elastic properties of the material forming the section (e.g., polycarbonate) ensure a stable attachment. An additional adhesive layer 224 adheres to the surface 608 of the spoke-between wheel and further glues the section 100-4 to the wheel 402.

[0052] There are two areas that are most likely to be damaged during an impact event. The section 100 is formed to have thicknesses d and d' in these two areas. d' is typically slightly greater than d. In one embodiment, both d and d' are in the range of 2-7 mm. In one embodiment, both d and d' are in the range of 3-5 mm.

[0053] Figure 7A is a sectional view taken through section B-B for Figure 4 of. Figure 7A Shows the relationship between the upper spoke portion of the section 100-9 covering the spokes 404-10 and the rim 602 of the wheel 402. Figure 7B is Figure 7A Enlarged view of the circled portion. This is similar in most respects to the discussion above Figure 6B The lip 220 snap-fits onto the rim 602 of the wheel 402. Once installed, the lip 220 resides below the distal edge 602 of the wheel 402 and closer to the axis of rotation. The areas of expected impact are protected by the material having thicknesses d and d'. Additionally, an adhesive area 226 adheres to the front distal edge of the wheel in the area where the spokes connect to the outer perimeter of the wheel. Since there is no hook to directly support the portion 114, the adhesive area 226 helps to hold this portion on the wheel in the event that this portion breaks away from the remainder of the section. By holding the broken portion in place, the adhesive 226 makes the protector more effective in the event of a subsequent impact event.

[0054] Figures 8 to 10 Shows a hookless embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 is a front view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The section 800 is substantially the same as Figure 1is the same as the embodiment. Segment 800 has two spoke adjacent edges 806, 808 that reside near two facing adjacent spokes when installed. The arcuate distal edge 802 has a radius slightly larger than the wheel (onto which segment 800 will be installed). The distal edge 802 has an inter-spoke portion 812, as well as an on-spoke portion 814 and a tapered end 816.

[0055] Figure 9 is a rear view of a segment of a segmented wheel protector according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Segment 800 has a lip 920 for engaging the distal edge of the wheel. In the absence of opposing hooks, at least one of the adhesive areas 924 and 926 is required to hold the segment on the wheel. Segment 800 also defines a notch 916 to cover the tapered end (tapered end 816 of an adjacent segment) when installed on the wheel.

[0056] Figure 10 is a contour view of a segment of a segmented wheel protector according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. In the contour view, the absence of the hooks is evident. The adhesive area 924, in combination with the lip 920, couples segment 800 to the wheel in use. The notch 916 for receiving the tapered end of an adjacent segment is also visible.

[0057] Figure 11 is a front view of a segment of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, each segment 1100 has an arcuate distal edge 1102 that has a radius only slightly larger than the radius of the wheel (onto which segment 1100 is intended to be used). The distal edge 1102 has an on-spoke section 1114 and two inter-spoke sections 1112, 1122. Each on-spoke section covers approximately half of the inter-spoke distance between two spokes. Thus, when installed, the inter-spoke section 1112 will abut the inter-spoke section 1122 of an adjacent segment, thereby spanning the entire inter-spoke distance.

[0058] Segment 1100 has two spoke adjacent edges 1106 and 1108. When installed, the spoke adjacent edges 1106, 1108 reside near opposite sides of a single spoke. That is, segment 1100 bridges the spoke. The arcuate proximal edge 1104 is discontinuous to accommodate this bridging. Some embodiments of segment 1100 may also be formed with the tapered end and notch configurations described with reference to other embodiments.

[0059] Figure 12Rear view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the lip 1220 that engages the outer rim of the wheel in use can be seen. Double hooks 1221, 1222 are formed at the proximal edge 1104 to engage the inner wheel recesses on either side of a single spoke. The engagement of the lip 1220 and the hooks 1221, 1222 is performed as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 7B All or some of the adhesive areas 1223, 1224 and 1226 can be used to improve the connection to the wheel and improve the multi-impact performance of the section 1100, as described above with reference to other embodiments.

[0060] Figure 13 Contour view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the hook mouths 1302, 1303 and the hook bottoms 1304, 1305 are evident. The lip 1220 is also visible in the contour view.

[0061] Figure 14 Front view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, each section 1400 has an arcuate distal edge 1402 that has a radius only slightly greater than the radius of the wheel (on which the section 1400 is intended to be used). The distal edge 1402 has an inter-spoke section 1412 and two on-spoke sections 1414, 1415. Each on-spoke section covers approximately half of the on-spoke distance. Thus, upon installation, the on-spoke section 1414 of one section will abut the on-spoke section 1415 of an adjacent section, thereby spanning the entire on-spoke distance.

[0062] The section 1400 has two spoke-adjacent edges 1406 and 1408. When installed, the spoke-adjacent edges 1406, 1408 reside near the facing edges of two adjacent spokes. The arcuate proximal edge 1404 is similar to the proximal edge 104 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3 Some embodiments of the section 1400 may also be formed with the tapered ends and notch configurations described with reference to other embodiments.

[0063] Figure 15 Rear view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the lip 1520 that engages the outer rim of the wheel in use can be seen. A hook 1522 is formed at the proximal edge 1404 to engage the inner wheel recess between two spokes. As described above with reference to Figures 1 to 7BThe engagement of the lip 1520 and the hook 1522 is performed as described. In some embodiments, one or both of the adhesive areas 1524 and 1526 can be used to improve the connection to the wheel and improve the multi - impact performance of the section 1400, as described above with reference to other embodiments.

[0064] Figure 16 is a contour view of a section of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. In this view, the hook mouth 1602 and the hook bottom 1604 are evident. The lip 1520 is also visible in the contour view.

[0065] Figure 17A is a cross - sectional view taken along section A - A of an alternative embodiment of a segmented wheel protector that is installed for Figure 4 the. Figure 17A shows the relationship between the inter - spoke portion of section 1700 - 4 and the rim 602 of the wheel 402. Figure 17B is Figure 17A an enlarged view of the circled portion of. The main difference between section 1700 and section 100 is that instead of having a lip that engages the wheel, the distal edge of section 1700 merely lies flush with or extends beyond the wheel edge 602 and can terminate in an overhang 1720. Some embodiments of section 1700 can omit the hook 1722. When present, the hook 1722 clamps onto the wheel 402, where the free end of the hook 1722 resides in the recess 606 of the wheel 402. When present, the hook 1722 can be substantially as described above with reference to hook 222.

[0066] As described above, the distal edge 1702 lies flush with or extends beyond the rim edge 602 of the wheel 402 such that the radius of the distal edge 1702 is greater than the radius of the wheel 402 by a distance o or equal to the radius of the wheel 402. The distance o is expected to be in the range of 0 - 8 mm. The distal edge 1702 can have an overhang 1720 that extends beyond the rim edge 602 by a distance d". The distance d" can be in the range of 0 - 10 mm. That is, in the extreme case, there is no overhang. When present, the overhang 1720 helps prevent proximal movement of section 1700. An additional adhesive layer 1724 adheres to the inter - spoke wheel surface 608 and glues section 1700 - 4 to the wheel 402. In embodiments without the hook 1722, the adhesive is the dominant holding force that keeps section 1700 on the wheel 402.

[0067] Figure 18 is a rear perspective view of a segmented wheel protector according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 The embodiment of is similar in most respects to that described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3The described embodiment. Segment 1800 has an arcuate distal edge 1802 that has a radius only slightly greater than the radius of the wheel (on which segment 1800 is intended to be used). Segment 1800 also has an arcuate proximal edge 1804 that has a radius less than the radius of the distal edge 1802.

[0068] The distal edge 1802 forms a lip 1820 that, in use, engages the rim of the wheel to hold segment 1800 in place. The distal edge 1802 has an inter-spoke section 1812 and an on-spoke section 1814. The on-spoke section 1814 terminates in a tapered end 1816 that is configured to be located below the inter-spoke section of an adjacent segment during installation. In some embodiments, an extension 1842 extends from the lip 1820 and terminates in a protrusion such as a tine 1840. As described in more detail below, the tine 1840 provides a pinch point with the tire, thereby reducing the risk of segment 1800 dislocating during an impact event. In some embodiments, segment 1800 defines a pry slot 1850 that facilitates removal of segment 1800 when needed. In some embodiments, the pry slot 1850 is hidden within the lip 1820 so that it is not readily visible after the segment is installed.

[0069] The proximal edge 1804 defines a hook 1822 that engages an inner wheel recess to hold segment 1800 on the wheel. In some embodiments, the hook 1822 has a relatively narrow mouth 1832 and a wider bottom 1834. This allows the hook 1822 to better engage the inner recess of the wheel. The mouth width is selected to be slightly less than the proximal inter-spoke thickness of the wheel. The depth of the hook (distance from the mouth to the bottom) is selected to accommodate manufacturing variations of the wheel. The wheel geometry of the same type of wheel can vary by up to 5 mm. The resiliency of the mouth and hook depth accommodates these variations and provides a secure engagement.

[0070] To install segment 1800, the hook 1822 first engages an inner wheel recess between a pair of adjacent spokes. Then, the lip 1820 snaps onto the rim of the wheel. The snap fit ensures easy installation and secure retention of segment 1800. Subsequent segments snap into place, where the corresponding notch 1818 of the current segment 1800-n+1 covers the tapered end 1816 of the adjacent segment 1800-n. For the last segment, the tapered end 1816 of segment 1800 is inserted under its intended adjacent segment before the lip snaps onto the rim and tapered end of another adjacent segment.

[0071] Segment 1800 has a first spoke adjacent edge 1806 and a second spoke adjacent edge 1808. The body 1810 of segment 1800, when installed, resides between two spokes of the wheel such that the spoke adjacent edges are close to two adjacent spokes. To facilitate installation, the wheel-facing surface of body 1810 is formed with a region having a ribbed profile 1852. The ribbed profile 1852 is generally centered on body 1810. The ribbed profile provides greater flexibility of body 1810 without thinning the entire body 1810, which would otherwise result in weaker protection of the wheel. In some embodiments, body 1810 has a surface profile that closely matches the profile of the underlying wheel. In some embodiments, there is an equal number of spokes and segments 1800. In some embodiments, all segments 1800 are substantially the same, except for one difference, which is only that it defines a hole (not shown in this figure) for receiving the valve stem of a tire on the wheel.

[0072] Segment 1800 can be formed of polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or other suitable synthetic materials. ABS has the desired strength and flexibility characteristics for use as a wheel protector. ABS can be easily produced in different colors. Segment 1800 can be injection molded or otherwise formed as a single integral unit. In some embodiments, the ABS can be painted or coated to more closely match the color of the wheel on which it will be used or any desired color. In other embodiments, colorants can be added during molding to give segment 1800 the desired color without further processing. By matching the color of the wheel, the segment remains unobtrusive. Some users may want to dress up their wheels with more vibrant colors. Any coloring is considered within the scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0073] In some embodiments, the wheel-facing surface 1810 can have an adhesive area 1824 located thereon to further secure the segment during installation. Some embodiments can have additional adhesive areas 1826 located within the spoke upper segment 1814. One embodiment uses a VHB-5925 double-sided foam tape commercially available from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA. The foam tape has the advantage of absorbing dimensional differences between segment 1800 and the wheel. Other embodiments can use other pressure-sensitive adhesives. The adhesive further glues the segment to the wheel. This is particularly advantageous in cases where multiple impact events may occur to segment 1800 before the segment 1800 or the entire wheel protector is replaced. Tests have shown that when an adhesive layer is used, segments that break or are damaged due to impact events generally remain on the wheel.

[0074] Figure 19 is mounted on the wheel Figure 18Cross-sectional view of a section. Wheel 402 has a tire 1900 mounted thereon. Figure 20 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the area identified in Figure 19 when the tire is in an uncompressed state.

[0075] Hook 1822 is clamped to the wheel, with the free end of the hook residing in the recess 606 of the wheel 402. The lip 1820 of the distal edge 102 snap-fits onto the rim 602 of the wheel 402. The rim edge 602 is hemmed in an arc. To maintain a secure attachment, the lip 1820 must snap under the edge 602. That is, the distal edge 1802 extends slightly farther from the axis of rotation of the wheel than the edge 602, and the lip 1820 engages the wheel 402 closer to the axis of rotation than the edge 602. The elastic properties of the material forming the section (e.g., polycarbonate) ensure a stable attachment. In one embodiment, the extension 1842 has a thickness t that is less than the thickness d' of the lip 1820. The thickness of the lip 1820 and other parts of the section 1800 may be the same as described above in connection with other embodiments.

[0076] In addition, the extension 1842 is formed to have a length such that when the section 1800 is mounted on the wheel 402, the teeth 1840 reside in a position very close to or preferably in contact with the tire 1900. It has been found that in some impact events, the deformation of the tire 1900 exerts a significant force on the lip in the x-direction, which in some instances can dislocate the section and reduce the effective protection provided by the wheel protector.

[0077] Figure 21 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the area identified in Figure 19 when the tire is in a compressed state. When an impact event occurs with an object 2100 (e.g., a curb), the tire 1900 deforms. It has been found that having teeth 1840 adjacent to or in contact with the tire results in a pinch point 2010. That is, before the deformation exerts a force in the x-direction on the lip 1820, the deformation of the tire clamps the teeth in the y-direction. The clamping at the pinch point 2010 prevents the force in the x-direction from dislocating the section 1800.

[0078] Figures 22 to 23is a thin film sheet used in conjunction with an embodiment of the present invention. It has been found that in some cases, particulate matter, such as sand, grit, etc., will accumulate inside the section during use. This can scratch the wheel surface and result in an undesirable appearance when the wheel protector is removed. By applying a single-sided adhesive film to the wheel before installing the section, such appearance defects can be eliminated. In some embodiments, the sheet 2200 of the spoke - between film insert 2202 can be included with a set of sections. In some embodiments, a valve film insert 2204 can be included to accommodate the valve of the wheel 402. In some embodiments, a second sheet 2300 of the distal - edge film insert 2302 can also be provided. In some embodiments, the film inserts 2202, 2204, 2302 are adhered to the wheel by a single - sided adhesive before the sections are installed on the wheel. In one embodiment, the film can be formed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with an optically clear adhesive.

[0079] Figure 24 is an exploded view of a section, a film insert, and a wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention. The spoke - between film insert 2202 is adhered to the spoke - between wheel surface 2402. The distal - edge film insert 2302 is adhered along the distal edge of the wheel 402 so as to be located beneath the section 1800 adjacent to the distal edge along its entire length. Then the section 1800 can be snapped onto the film insert. If there are adhesive areas, they will adhere to the underlying film insert. In any case, the wheel is protected from abrasion by particulate matter that penetrates the wheel protector during use.

[0080] It should be understood that Figures 1 to 17B embodiments of Figure 18 can be formed to include extensions and protrusions as described with reference to

[0081] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to its specific embodiments. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A protector for a wheel, comprising: a first segment formed of a composite material having a first arcuate distal edge having a first radius, the first arcuate distal edge forming a first lip for engaging a distal edge of the wheel, the first segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the first segment having a first arcuate proximal edge having a second radius less than the first radius and defining a first hook for engaging an inner recess of the wheel; and a second segment formed of a composite material having a second arcuate distal edge having the first radius, the second arcuate distal edge forming a second lip for engaging the distal edge of the wheel, the second segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the second segment having a second arcuate proximal edge having a second radius less than the first radius and defining a second hook for engaging an inner recess of the wheel; wherein each spoke adjacent edge is configured to reside within a range of 0-7 mm from a spoke of the wheel, and the first arcuate distal edge of the first segment and the second arcuate distal edge of the second segment extend together with at least one spoke and at least one inter-spoke segment at the distal edge of the wheel during use.

2. The protector according to claim 1, wherein: Each segment has a profile that matches the contour of the underlying surface of the wheel between the arcuate distal edge and the arcuate proximal edge.

3. The protector according to claim 1, wherein: The first section defines a hole for receiving a valve stem of a tire coupled to the wheel.

4. The protector according to claim 1, wherein: The protector further comprises: A plurality of additional segments, the plurality of additional segments being identical to one of the first segment and the second segment, the plurality of additional segments combined with the first segment and the second segment, together covering 360° of the distal edge of the wheel.

5. The protector according to claim 1, wherein: Each section further includes: An adhesive area is located on the wheel facing surface of the segment.

6. The protector according to claim 1, wherein: Each segment snap-fits onto the wheel with no additional mechanical connections.

7. The protector according to claim 1, wherein: The spoke adjacent edge of a segment is adjacent to an opposing edge of a single spoke.

8. The protector according to claim 1, wherein: The spoke adjacent edge of one segment is adjacent to facing edges of two different spokes.

9. The protector according to claim 1, wherein: A first portion of the first section tapers at a first end so as to underlie at least a second portion of the second section adjacent the first end.

10. A protector for a wheel, comprising: a first segment formed of a composite material having a first arcuate distal edge having a first radius, the first arcuate distal edge forming a first lip for engaging a distal edge of the wheel, the first segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the first segment having a first adhesive area on a wheel facing surface of the first segment; and a second segment formed of a composite material having a second arcuate distal edge having the first radius, the second arcuate distal edge forming a second lip for engaging the distal edge of the wheel, the second segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the second segment having a second adhesive area on a wheel facing surface of the second segment; wherein each spoke adjacent edge is configured to reside within a range of 0-7 mm from a spoke of the wheel, and a first arcuate distal edge of the first segment and a second arcuate distal edge of the second segment extend together with at least one spoke and at least one inter-spoke segment at the distal edge of the wheel during use.

11. A protector for a wheel, comprising: a first segment formed of a composite material having a first arcuate distal edge having a first radius, the first radius being equal to or greater than a radius of a distal edge of the wheel, the first segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the first segment having a first adhesive area on a wheel facing surface of the first segment; and a second segment formed of a composite material having a second arcuate distal edge having the first radius, the first radius being equal to or greater than the radius of the distal edge of the wheel, the second segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the second segment having a second adhesive area on a wheel facing surface of the second segment; wherein each spoke adjacent edge is configured to reside within 0-7 mm of a spoke of the wheel, and a first arcuate distal edge of the first segment and a second arcuate distal edge of the second segment together extend with at least one spoke and at least one inter-spoke segment at the distal edge of the wheel during use; and Wherein each segment further has an arcuate proximal edge having a second radius less than the first radius and defining a hook for engaging an inner recess of the wheel.

12. The protector for a wheel according to claim 11, wherein: The arcuate distal edge of each segment terminates in an overhang that, when installed, extends a non-zero distance beyond the arcuate distal edge in a direction away from a visible surface of the segment.

13. A wheel equipped with a protector, the protector comprising: a first segment formed of a composite material having a first arcuate distal edge having a first radius, the first arcuate distal edge forming a first lip for engaging a distal edge of the wheel, the first segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the first segment having a first arcuate proximal edge having a second radius less than the first radius and defining a first hook for engaging an inner recess of the wheel; and a second segment formed of a composite material having a second arcuate distal edge having the first radius, the second arcuate distal edge forming a second lip for engaging the distal edge of the wheel, the second segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the second segment having a second arcuate proximal edge having a second radius less than the first radius and defining a second hook for engaging an inner recess of the wheel; wherein each spoke adjacent edge is configured to reside within a range of 0-7 mm from a spoke of the wheel, and the first arcuate distal edge of the first segment and the second arcuate distal edge of the second segment extend together with at least one spoke and at least one inter-spoke segment at the distal edge of the wheel during use.

14. A protector for a wheel, comprising: a first segment formed of a composite material having a first arcuate distal edge having a first radius, the first arcuate distal edge forming a first lip for extending beyond a distal edge of the wheel, the first segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges and a first extension extending from the first lip beyond the distal edge of the wheel and forming a first protrusion sized to form a pinch point when the first segment is installed and a tire mounted on the wheel is compressed; and a second segment formed of a composite material having a second arcuate distal edge having the first radius, the second arcuate distal edge forming a second lip for extending beyond the distal edge of the wheel, the second segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges and a second extension extending from the second lip beyond the distal edge of the wheel and forming a second protrusion, the second protrusion forming a pinch point when the second segment is installed and the tire is compressed; wherein the first arcuate distal edge of the first segment and the second arcuate distal edge of the second segment together cover at least one spoke and at least one inter-spoke section at the distal edge of the wheel during use.

15. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: Each segment has an arcuate proximal edge having a second radius less than the first radius and defining a hook for engaging an inner recess of the wheel.

16. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: The protector further comprises: A plurality of additional segments, the plurality of additional segments being identical to one of the first segment or the second segment, the plurality of additional segments combined with the first segment and the second segment, together covering 360° of the distal edge of the wheel.

17. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: Each section further includes: An adhesive area is located on the wheel facing surface of the segment.

18. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: Each segment snap-fits onto the wheel with no additional mechanical connections.

19. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: Each segment defines a pry slot adjacent the distal edge.

20. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: The spoke adjacent edge of a segment is adjacent to an opposing edge of a single spoke.

21. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: The spoke adjacent edge of one segment is adjacent to facing edges of two different spokes.

22. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: The first segment has a portion configured to engage the distal edge of the wheel and reside between a first spoke and a second spoke of the wheel, and a portion coextensive with the first spoke covering an edge of the wheel.

23. The protector according to claim 22, wherein: A portion of the first section tapers at a first end so as to underlie at least a portion of the second section adjacent to the first end.

24. The protector according to claim 14, wherein: At least a portion of the region between adjacent edges of the spokes has a ribbed cross-section.

25. A wheel equipped with a protector, the protector comprising: a first segment formed of a composite material having a first arcuate distal edge having a first radius, the first arcuate distal edge forming a first lip for engaging a distal edge of the wheel, the first segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges and a first extension extending from the first lip beyond the distal edge of the wheel and forming a first protrusion sized to form a pinch point when the first segment is installed and a tire mounted on the wheel is compressed; and a second segment formed of a composite material having a second arcuate distal edge having the first radius, the second arcuate distal edge forming a second lip for engaging the distal edge of the wheel, the second segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges and a second extension extending from the second lip beyond the distal edge of the wheel and forming a second protrusion, the second protrusion forming a pinch point when the second segment is installed and the tire is compressed; wherein the first arcuate distal edge of the first segment and the second arcuate distal edge of the second segment together cover at least one spoke and at least one inter-spoke section at the distal edge of the wheel during use.

26. A wheel according to claim 25, wherein: The wheel further comprises: A film layer is coupled between the wheel and each segment.

27. The wheel of claim 25, wherein: At least a portion of the area between adjacent edges of the spokes of each segment has a ribbed cross-section.

28. A protector for a wheel, comprising: a first segment formed of a composite material having a first arcuate distal edge having a first radius, the first radius being equal to or greater than a radius of a distal edge of the wheel, the first segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the first segment being coupleable to a wheel such that the first arcuate distal edge overlies at least one spoke and at least one inter-spoke segment when installed; and a second segment formed of a composite material having a second arcuate distal edge having the first radius, the first radius being equal to or greater than a radius of a distal edge of the wheel, the second segment having at least two spoke adjacent edges, the second segment being coupleable to a wheel such that the second arcuate distal edge overlies at least one spoke and at least one inter-spoke segment when installed; wherein each spoke adjacent edge is configured to reside within a range of 0-7 mm from a spoke of the wheel; wherein the first section and the second section abut each other when installed; and Wherein, the protector further comprises: a first extension extending from the first arcuate distal edge of the first segment beyond the distal edge of the wheel and forming a first protrusion that forms a pinch point when the first segment is installed and a tire mounted on the wheel is compressed; A second extension extends from the second arcuate distal edge of the second segment beyond the distal edge of the wheel and forms a second protrusion that forms a pinch point when the second segment is installed and the tire is compressed.

29. The protector according to claim 28, wherein: The protector further comprises: A plurality of additional segments, the plurality of additional segments being identical to one of the first segment and the second segment, the plurality of additional segments combined with the first segment and the second segment, together covering 360° of the distal edge of the wheel.

Images