MULTI-PART VEHICLE WHEEL WITH ONE SEAL

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a vehicle wheel comprising a wheel disc, a wheel rim, and at least one connecting element connecting the wheel disc and the wheel rim. The connecting element is guided through a passage in the wheel rim and joined in the wheel disc. The wheel rim is designed for tubeless tires. A seal is provided to hermetically seal the passage of the wheel rim from a tire chamber.

[0002] The tire chamber is the space enclosed by the wheel rim and the mounted tire, which must be sealed against the environment.

[0003] The wheel disc can have a bowl shape, a disc shape or a star shape.

[0004] The wheel disc and the wheel rim are connected by means of the connecting element in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

[0005] If several connecting elements are provided for connecting the wheel rim and the wheel disc, these can be guided through passages arranged, for example, along the circumference of the wheel rim and each engage in one of the joining channels arranged correspondingly in the wheel disc.

[0006] Rivets, screws, or bolts can be used as fasteners. When used with a screw, for example, the screw head usually rests against the peripheral edge of the wheel rim's outer side of the hole, with an external thread of the screw engaging an internal thread of a groove in the wheel disc.

[0007] The difficulty with such wheels is to seal these passages through the wheel rim, which are provided with a force-locking connection for fastening the wheel disc to the wheel rim, in such a way that no air can escape from the tire chamber to the environment.

[0008] EP 1 858 715 B1 discloses a vehicle wheel consisting of a rim and a wheel disc or spoke unit, with connecting elements extending through the rim and being accommodated in the wheel disc or spoke unit. The passage for the connecting elements is sealed by the connecting elements having a seal.

[0009] This seal is arranged between the connecting element and the outer side of the wheel rim or in the passage of the wheel rim and is thus integrated into the force transmission of the force-locking connection, which entails the risk of damage to the seal during continuous operation of the vehicle wheel.

[0010] A further risk of damage to the seal is caused by the relative movement of the connecting element during the joining process.

[0011] EP 1 619 043 A2 and US Pat. No. 6,019,149 disclose spoked wheels in which the nipple-spoke passage through the rim is sealed by means of sealing elements arranged on the outside of the rim above the connecting element. These seals each require installation space for the seal above the connecting element.

[0012] A particular disadvantage of the solution according to US 6,019,149 is that it makes it difficult to put the tire on or take it off and the seal can be damaged in the process.

[0013] In the design according to EP 1 619 043 A2, the protruding installation space is reduced by embedding the connecting element into the wheel rim. However, this locally narrows the wheel rim's cross-section and thus dangerously reduces the wheel rim's load-bearing capacity. WO2014058313A also shows a prior-art vehicle wheel.

[0014] The invention is based on the object of providing a vehicle wheel which eliminates the disadvantages of vehicle wheels according to the described prior art.

[0015] The invention is intended to provide a reliable, operationally safe, and cost-effective seal for the passage through the wheel rim for a vehicle wheel comprising a wheel disc and wheel rim connection of the above-mentioned type. The seal should not impair the strength and reliability of the connection between the wheel rim and wheel disc, and damage to the seal during assembly and vehicle operation should also be avoided. Furthermore, the design of the seal should not impede the fitting and removal of the tires, and damage to the seal during this process should also be avoided.

[0016] The object is achieved by a vehicle wheel according to claim 1.

[0017] The vehicle wheel according to the invention has the features of claim 1. Further embodiments of the invention are presented in the subclaims.

[0018] Preferably, the outer, radial circumference of the wheel disc has one or more such connection surfaces, while a radial circumference of the inner side of the wheel rim has matching, communicating connection surfaces for connecting the respective wheel disc to the wheel rim.

[0019] The connection area of the wheel disc can be formed, for example, on a radially circumferential wheel outer surface (wheel rim) or on several individual end surfaces of the wheel spokes.

[0020] The connection surface(s) of the wheel disc can be directed radially outwards to axially sideways outwards, whereby the connection surface(s) of the wheel rim can be directed radially inwards or axially sideways accordingly.

[0021] The connecting surface(s) of the wheel disc and the connecting surface(s) of the wheel rim essentially face each other when the vehicle wheel is mounted.

[0022] The seal is arranged neither on the outside of the rim nor in the passage of the wheel rim, but exclusively between the connection area of the wheel rim and the connection area of the wheel disc, in particular between their contact surfaces, in such a way that it does not come into any contact - neither directly nor indirectly - with the connecting element.

[0023] Preferably, several seals are arranged between at least the connection area of the wheel disc and the connection area of the wheel rim.

[0024] Preferably, the seal(s) is / are arranged between at least one connection surface of the connection region of the wheel disc and at least one connection surface of the connection region of the wheel rim.

[0025] The seal(s) can be designed so that, when the vehicle wheel is assembled, they are arranged in a locally differentiated manner, e.g., as a sealing ring, in a specific section between the connecting surfaces of the wheel disc and the wheel rim, or extend over the entire surface between these connecting surfaces, e.g., as a sealing film or sealing disc. Accordingly, the seal(s) can be in contact with the connecting surfaces of the wheel disc and the wheel rim either locally or over the entire surface.

[0026] In a contact area of the connecting surface(s) of the wheel disc and the connecting surface(s) of the wheel rim, contact surfaces are formed which, in the assembled state of the vehicle wheel, lie directly against one another or correspond indirectly via contact surfaces of intermediately mounted elements of the connecting arrangement.

[0027] Preferably, contact surfaces are formed in a first contact area of the connecting surface(s) of the wheel disc and the connecting surface(s) of the wheel rim, which, when the vehicle wheel is in the assembled state, are in direct contact with one another or are in contact indirectly via contact surfaces of intermediate elements of a connecting arrangement. No intermediate seal is provided in this first contact area of the connecting surface(s).

[0028] The seal(s) arranged between the connection surface of the connection region of the wheel disc and the connection surface of the connection region of the wheel rim are designed and arranged in such a locally limited manner that at least one connection surface or a section of a connection surface of the wheel disc and at least one connection surface or a section of a connection surface of the wheel rim are each designed as a first contact surface for direct contact of the wheel disc with the wheel rim and / or for indirect contact of the wheel disc and / or the wheel rim by means of a connection arrangement. In the event of indirect contact between the wheel disc and / or the wheel rim, the connection surface of the wheel disc and / or the wheel rim rests on elements of the connection arrangement mounted between the wheel rim and the wheel disc.

[0029] These first contact surfaces are therefore not in contact with a seal(s).

[0030] In a second contact area of the connecting surface(s) of the wheel disc and the connecting surface(s) of the wheel rim, contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) are formed, against which the seal(s) are tightly in contact when the vehicle wheel is in the assembled state.

[0031] For the seal(s) arranged between the connecting surfaces or sections of the connecting surfaces of the wheel disc and the wheel rim, at least one connecting surface or a section of a connecting surface of the wheel disc and at least one connecting surface or a section of a connecting surface of the wheel rim are each designed as a second contact surface (sealing surface) for the direct contact of the seal(s) with the wheel disc and with the wheel rim.

[0032] In contrast to the first contact surfaces, these second contact surfaces are intended for the direct, sealing contact of the seal(s) with the wheel rim or wheel disc.

[0033] The connecting element serves to create a frictional connection between the wheel disc and the wheel rim. It can be a screw, a bolt, or a rivet, for example. Appropriate grooves are provided in the wheel disc for the engagement of the connecting elements. For example, a screw as the connecting element has an internal thread in the groove of the wheel disc that corresponds to the external thread of the screw.

[0034] The forces introduced by the connecting elements cause a surface pressure between the contact surfaces of the connection area of the wheel rim and the connection area of the wheel disc, in particular between the first contact surfaces of the connection area of the wheel rim and the wheel disc, and thus create a force-locking connection between the wheel disc and the wheel rim.

[0035] The seal is arranged in particular between the connecting surfaces of the wheel rim and the wheel disc, which are designed as second contact surfaces, and always in such a way that it does not come into any contact - neither directly nor indirectly - with a connecting element arranged in the respective passage or joining channel.

[0036] According to an advantageous embodiment, the seal can be arranged several times between the connection area of the wheel disc and the connection area of the wheel rim, in particular between their contact surfaces, in order to adapt to the respective geometric requirements and to increase the sealing function, whereby here too each of the seals surrounds the connecting element(s) without contact.

[0037] One or more seals can be arranged, for example, directly or indirectly, but always at a distance from one or more connecting elements and thus circumferentially around the respective passage(s) or joining passage(s).

[0038] A plurality of seals running radially around the circumference of the wheel rim or around the circumference of the wheel disc can, for example, be arranged directly or indirectly flanking one or more connecting elements together without contact and thus flanking the respective passage(s) or joining passage(s) of the connecting element(s).

[0039] Due to the surface pressure on the contact surfaces and the seal(s) assigned to them, in particular due to the surface pressure on the first - seal-free - contact surfaces, an efficient sealing effect is achieved between the connection areas of the wheel rim and the wheel disc to seal the passage through the wheel rim and thus a rim-side sealing of the tire chamber from the environment.

[0040] The seals, which are positioned at a contactless distance from the connecting elements, are therefore largely located outside the force flow between the wheel rim and the wheel disc, which is primarily introduced into the elements to be connected (wheel disc, wheel rim) by the connecting elements via their direct engagement and contact surfaces.

[0041] This ensures that the force transmission required by the connecting element is not influenced or reduced by the seal. The connection remains largely unaffected and stable by the temperature- and load-dependent properties of the seal.

[0042] On the other hand, the seal arranged as described above is largely protected from the effects of the forces exerted and transmitted by the connecting elements, in particular from the dynamic loads transmitted during operation of the vehicle wheel. The dynamic loads acting on the connecting elements during driving lead to, for example, tensile and transverse force loads and can subsequently lead to vibrational friction wear of the components involved in the connection, and in particular those directly adjacent to the connecting element.

[0043] By positioning the seals at a distance from the connecting elements, the seals are not subject to the immediate risk of damage from these connection stresses, thus ensuring the sealing function of the seals is sustainably guaranteed. In particular, the risk of damage to the seals due to dynamic connection stresses is significantly reduced.

[0044] Furthermore, no raised space is required on the outer side of the rim, which could hinder the mounting or removal of the tire. Thanks to its inventive arrangement, the function of the seal itself cannot be compromised by the mounting or removal of the tire. Furthermore, the seals cannot be compromised by the joining of the connecting elements during wheel assembly.

[0045] The positioning, in particular the design and arrangement of the seal(s), enables a permanent, reliable sealing of the passage of the wheel rim and thus of the tire chamber from the environment using simple means and little effort, and at the same time ensures a reliable connection between the wheel rim and the wheel disc.

[0046] In a further advantageous embodiment, the seals are arranged only locally between the connecting surfaces and are designed and positioned so adaptably that a first contact area of the connecting surfaces or a section of the connecting surfaces of the wheel disc and the wheel rim is formed with one or more first contact surface(s), the surface pressure takes place primarily in these first contact surfaces as a result of the forces introduced into the connecting partners by the connecting elements for establishing the force-locking connection between the wheel disc and the wheel rim.

[0047] The seal(s) is / are thus arranged both at a contactless distance from the connecting elements and outside of corresponding, force-transmitting contact surfaces of the wheel disc and the wheel rim.

[0048] The seals are thus exempt from the direct surface pressure acting on the first contact surfaces and are therefore essentially located outside the force flow between the wheel rim and wheel disc, which is introduced by the connecting elements via their direct engagement surfaces and further via primarily the contact surfaces into the elements to be connected (wheel disc, wheel rim).

[0049] This improves power transmission for an effective, frictional connection between the wheel disc and wheel rim. The contact surfaces, free of sealing surfaces, provide efficient surface pressure. Furthermore, the connection remains stable and unaffected by temperature- and load-dependent changes in the properties of intermediate seals.

[0050] In addition, due to their positioning away from the force-transmitting contact surfaces, the seals are not subject to the risk of damage due to the surface pressure exerted on the contact surfaces, so that the sealing function of the seals is even more reliably guaranteed.

[0051] This not only ensures efficient power transmission but also a particularly efficient sealing effect between the connection areas of the wheel rim and the wheel disc.

[0052] According to an advantageous embodiment, a connecting element can also be part of a connecting arrangement for connecting the wheel disc and the wheel rim, wherein the seal(s) surround the connecting element(s) in such a way that there is no contact between the seal(s) and the connecting arrangement(s).

[0053] In addition to the connecting element, the connecting arrangement comprises other components of the connection, such as one or more bushing parts, a perforated disc or perforated plate, a washer, an insert, or another insert or intermediate layer element, which can, for example, line or enclose the passage of the wheel rim and / or the joining passage of the wheel disc and / or can extend between the connection areas of the wheel rim and the wheel disc. These components of the connecting arrangement are in direct or indirect operative contact with the connecting element to support the force-locking connection between the wheel disc and the wheel rim.

[0054] In particular, components of the connection arrangement designed to enclose the passage and the edge areas of the wheel rim surrounding the passage primarily serve both to protect the wheel rim passage from mechanical stress caused by the force-transmitting connecting element and to distribute the forces from the local surface pressure between the connecting element and the wheel rim. These measures are particularly important for a wheel rim made of fiber-reinforced plastic in order to reduce the material stress on the fiber composite material in the connection area.

[0055] In this embodiment, the seal(s) mounted between the connection areas of the wheel disc and the wheel rim surround(s) the connecting element(s) and preferably also other components of the connecting arrangement such that the seal(s) are arranged without contact with all components of the connecting arrangement(s).

[0056] The seal(s) can surround the connecting element(s) directly or indirectly, preferably by including components or elements of the connecting arrangement(s).

[0057] For example, an annular seal can surround a component of the connection arrangement, such as a bushing part with a flange-like collar lining the passage of the wheel rim, or a perforated disc surrounding the passage through which the connecting element is passed, at a corresponding non-contact distance. The seal can surround the outermost, furthest-extending component of the connection arrangement in the radial extension of the connection arrangement, but can also be interposed between the various components of the connection arrangement, provided there is no contact between the connecting element and the remaining components of the connection arrangement.

[0058] This also ensures, on the one hand, that no air can escape from the tire chamber into the environment via the passages through the wheel rim and specifically through the resulting joints or contact surfaces between the penetrating connecting element and the other components of the connecting arrangement. On the other hand, the spaced, contactless positioning of the seals relative to all operatively connected components of the connecting arrangement isolates the seal from the effects of the forces exerted and transmitted by the connecting arrangement, in particular from the dynamic loads transmitted during operation of the vehicle wheel, and thus protects it from damage caused by the connection stresses, so that the sealing function of the seals is sustainably guaranteed.

[0059] Thus, either each passage of the wheel rim is individually sealed against the environment, or a group of passages is sealed together. In both cases, a reliable seal of the tire chamber is achieved.

[0060] According to an advantageous embodiment, the connecting arrangement comprises a multi-part bushing. A connecting arrangement with a multi-part bushing sustainably reduces vibrational frictional wear between the connecting element and the wheel rim, particularly in the case of a wheel rim made of fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0061] The bushing parts may be flush with or project beyond the outer or inner surface of the wheel rim, or may have a flange extending beyond the outer or inner surface of the wheel rim, or may extend into a recess or groove in the wheel disc.

[0062] For example, in the case of a bushing part which extends in a flange-like manner over the connection area of the wheel rim, the flange can be arranged between the connection surfaces of the wheel disc and the wheel rim, in particular between their first contact surfaces, and thus provide corresponding contact surfaces for the indirect connection of the wheel disc to the wheel rim and for the indirect transmission of force between the connection area of the wheel disc and the connection area of the wheel rim.

[0063] In this case, the wheel rim passage can be sealed by a seal that completely surrounds the flange-like bushing part and is spaced apart, and is designed to match the height of the flange of the flange-like bushing part. The seal is designed to rest against the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) in the connection area of the wheel rim and the wheel disc.

[0064] A seal made of, for example, elastic material, preferably has an oversize compared to the height of the flange of the outer bushing part and is pressed together in the assembled state of the connection according to the oversize and forms corresponding sealing surfaces (second contact surfaces) on the connection surface of the wheel disc and the connection surface of the wheel rim.

[0065] In particular, multi-part bushings with interlocking bushing parts are suitable for compensating the micro-movements in the connection caused by the dynamic loads of the vehicle wheel and for minimizing the resulting vibrational friction wear on the wheel rim made of fiber composite material.

[0066] In this design, the seals are particularly well protected from the dynamic loads transmitted to the connection during operation of the vehicle wheel due to the positive effects of the micro-movements compensated by the interlocking bushing parts.

[0067] According to an advantageous development of the vehicle wheel, the connecting arrangement has one or more perforated disc(s) and / or one or more perforated plate(s).

[0068] In this embodiment, in combination with a connecting element and / or in combination with a connecting element and other components of the connecting arrangement, a connection as effective and secure as described above can also be achieved.

[0069] Preferably, the seal(s) is / are arranged coaxially around one or more connecting elements or one or more connecting arrangements. The seal(s) rotate(s) around a central, common axis of the connecting element or the connecting arrangement. In the case of a plurality of connecting elements or connecting arrangements, the seal(s) rotate(s) around a central, common axis of the group of connecting elements or connecting arrangements.

[0070] The coaxial circumferential seal can have any square, annular, oval or arcuate circumferential profiles depending on the desired wheel design, which run between the connection area of the wheel rim and the connection area of the wheel disc around a connecting element or a connecting arrangement or around a group of connecting elements or connecting arrangements, whereby a seal with an annular circumferential profile is particularly easy to manufacture and handle.

[0071] This design is preferably suitable for a star-shaped wheel disc with individual spokes, but does not exclude application for sealing the passages of a disc-shaped and bowl-shaped wheel disc with a closed, continuous, outer circumference.

[0072] The connection area of the wheel rim and the connection area of the spoke ends of the star-shaped wheel disc each have essentially flat or slightly curved connection surfaces that correspond to one another when the vehicle wheel is assembled and are contacted in the contact area by at least one seal that runs coaxially adjacent to the connecting element or the connecting arrangement. Thus, at least one first contact surface and a second contact surface (sealing surface) that runs coaxially to the connecting element or the connecting arrangement are formed in the contact area of the wheel rim and the wheel disc.

[0073] With a particularly coaxial seal arrangement, the tightening torque of the connecting element can apply a very evenly distributed and therefore high compressive force to the seal via the wheel rim and the wheel disc, and further across their sealing surfaces. This achieves a particularly high level of sealing reliability.

[0074] According to an advantageous development of the vehicle wheel, the seal(s) is / are arranged radially in the circumferential direction of the wheel disc or wheel rim.

[0075] Preferably, two circumferential seals are arranged in pairs and on both sides of the connecting elements (4) or connecting arrangements (12) arranged around the circumference of the wheel disc (2) or the wheel rim (1), so that the connecting elements or connecting arrangements are enclosed by the two radially circumferential seals.

[0076] This design is preferably suitable for a disc-shaped and bowl-shaped wheel disc with a closed, continuous outer circumference. For example, the connection area of the wheel rim and the connection area of the wheel disc have radially circumferential, cylindrical, conical, or parabolic, mutually facing connection surfaces that correspond to one another when the vehicle wheel is assembled and are contacted in the contact area on both sides by at least one radially circumferential seal. Preferably, two flanking second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) for the seals are formed on both sides of a first contact surface of the connection surface of the wheel rim or wheel disc.

[0077] Depending on the wheel design, the circumferential profile of the radially circumferential seal follows the outer circumferential profile in the connection area of the wheel disc or the circumferential profile in the connection area of the wheel rim.

[0078] This design of the sealing arrangement also ensures that the tire chamber is completely and reliably sealed against the escape of air into the environment.

[0079] This radially circumferential sealing arrangement enables effective wheel sealing with particularly low technical effort.

[0080] All passages of the wheel rim can be enclosed airtight together and equally by the seals running around both sides of the connecting elements or connecting arrangements.

[0081] This radially rotating sealing arrangement can be provided alternatively or in addition to the coaxially rotating sealing arrangement.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the seal(s) is / are materially connected to a second contact surface (sealing surface) of the connection area of the wheel disc and / or to a second contact surface (sealing surface) of the connection area of the wheel rim.

[0083] The material connection of the seal(s) can be achieved, for example, using various adhesives or, preferably, self-adhesive tape.

[0084] But the seal(s) themselves can also have adhesive properties, e.g. be designed as a sealing adhesive or as a self-adhesive sealing tape, so that these seals can directly establish a material bond with the second contact surfaces.

[0085] This material bond between the seal(s) allows the desired position of the seal(s) relative to the connecting element or connection assembly to be fixed prior to assembly. This additional positional fixation of the seal(s) not only simplifies assembly but also increases the reliability of the sealing effect during assembly.

[0086] According to a further embodiment, at least one groove is / are formed in a connection surface, in particular in a contact surface of the connection region of the wheel disc and / or in a connection surface, in particular in a contact surface of the connection region of the wheel rim, in which groove the seal(s) is / are arranged.

[0087] In this design, one or more grooves are machined into at least one of the connecting surfaces that correspond to one another in the assembled state of the vehicle wheel, in particular into at least one of the adjacent contact surfaces of the connecting areas of the wheel disc and the wheel rim. In the assembled state of the connection, the surfaces of the machined groove are designed as second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces).

[0088] The groove ensures that the seal sits securely in the intended location, without the risk of displacement during loading of the connection while the vehicle wheel is in operation.

[0089] One or more seals can be incorporated into a groove. Together with the corresponding contact surfaces of the connecting areas of the wheel disc or wheel rim, in particular together with a corresponding second contact surface (sealing surface) of the connecting area of the wheel disc or wheel rim opposite the groove, the groove-mounted seal ensures reliable sealing of the wheel rim passage when the vehicle wheel is mounted.

[0090] The preferably elastic seal preferably has an oversize relative to the groove depth. As a result, when the connection is assembled, the seal is pressed into a defined shape and thickness by the groove and the opposite contact surface (second contact surface).

[0091] The force introduced into the connection by the connecting element exerts a compressive force on the seal in the groove, ensuring a reliable seal between the connection areas of the wheel rim and the wheel disc. In particular, this ensures that the sealing effect is maintained under any dynamic load on the connection.

[0092] Depending on the elasticity and the oversize of the seal, the pressing force of the seal and thus the sealing effect can be varied.

[0093] The corresponding contact surfaces (first contact surfaces) in the connection areas of the wheel rim and the wheel disc can not only support the necessary force transmission between the wheel rim and the wheel disc, largely unaffected by the seals, but can also efficiently exert this force, since in particular the seals arranged in the grooves are not directly in the force flow of the connection and are particularly excluded from the force flow of the connection.

[0094] The integrated arrangement of the seal in the groove and the appropriate selection of the material can also prevent creep of the seal and thus settlement of the connection.

[0095] Grooves can be arranged both in the connection area of the wheel rim and in the connection area of the wheel disc, which, together with the integrated seal, can be arranged in particular opposite or offset from one another and can therefore have multiple effects.

[0096] According to the above-described possible course of the seal(s), one or more groove(s) can be arranged in the connection area of the wheel rim around one passage of the wheel rim or around several passages of the wheel rim.

[0097] Accordingly, one or more grooves in the connection area of the wheel disc can be arranged around a joining groove in the wheel disc or around several joining grooves of the wheel disc.

[0098] According to the above-described possible course of the seal(s) running radially in the circumferential direction of the wheel disc or the wheel rim, the associated grooves can also be designed to run radially in the connection area of the closed wheel disc and / or radially in the connection area of the wheel rim and thus run on both sides adjacent to the joining channels arranged distributed around the outer circumference of the wheel disc or to the passages arranged distributed around the circumference of the wheel rim.

[0099] Accordingly, the seals arranged in the grooves enclose the connecting elements or connecting arrangements distributed around the circumference of the vehicle wheel on both sides of the connection areas of the wheel rim and the wheel disc.

[0100] The design of the grooves along the outer circumference of the closed wheel disc or along the circumference of the inner side of the wheel rim is particularly simple to produce and their use is particularly easy to install.

[0101] According to one embodiment, a recess is formed in an edge zone of a connection surface, in particular the contact surface of the connection area of the wheel disc and / or in an edge zone of a connection surface, in particular the contact surface of the connection area of the wheel rim, in which the seal(s) is / are arranged. In the assembled state of the connection, the surfaces of the machined recess are thus formed as second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces).

[0102] The recess provided also ensures that the seal sits securely in the predetermined location without shifting in position during the loading of the connection when the vehicle wheel is in operation.

[0103] For the secure arrangement of the seal, on the one hand, a recess pointing into the passage, in particular open to the passage, can be formed in an edge zone of the connection area of the wheel rim facing the passage of the wheel rim, namely on the circumferential edge of the passage adjacent to the passage.

[0104] Likewise, in an inner edge zone of the connection area of the wheel disc facing the joining passage in the wheel disc, namely on the circumferential edge of the joining passage of the wheel disc, a recess pointing in the direction of the joining passage, in particular open towards the joining passage, can be formed.

[0105] Or, in an outer edge zone of the connection area of the wheel disc, an edge-side, outward-facing recess, in particular open towards the environment, can be formed on the radial circumference of the closed wheel disc or on the circumference of each of the wheel spokes.

[0106] These recesses can be provided alternatively or in addition to the groove design.

[0107] In this way, material weakening in the edge zones of the connection areas of the wheel disc or wheel rim, which can arise, for example, due to the formation of grooves near the edge, can be avoided.

[0108] Such material weakening could occur, especially in the star-shaped wheel disc design, in the connection area of the spoke ends. Narrow residual wall thicknesses in the edge area of the spoke ends are at risk of breaking due to the heavy stress on the spokes. Such unwanted damage to the wheel spider can be prevented by the component recesses located directly at the edge of the spokes.

[0109] Likewise, by recessing the peripheral edge of the wheel rim passage in the connection area of the wheel rim, residual wall thicknesses that are at risk of fracture can be avoided by creating a groove near the edge.

[0110] In addition, the edge recess can be produced more easily than a groove using an appropriate milling tool.

[0111] According to further advantageous embodiments, the seal is designed as a sealing element, preferably as an annular, perforated disc-shaped or band-shaped sealing element.

[0112] The seal, in particular the sealing element, can have, for example, a round, oval, rectangular or square cross-section.

[0113] The correspondingly prefabricated seal or the correspondingly prefabricated sealing element makes it possible to seal the wheel rim with little installation effort.

[0114] Ring-shaped, perforated disc-shaped or band-shaped seals or sealing elements make it possible to enclose the connecting element(s) or the connecting arrangement(s) in one piece and thus to seal the wheel rim with little manufacturing effort, z.B. in one production step, and to seal particularly reliably.

[0115] These seals are easy to install and can be easily inserted into appropriately designed grooves or edge recesses.

[0116] For example, conventional sealing rings with a round cross-section (O-rings), rectangular or square cross-section, band-shaped flat seals with a rectangular cross-section, film-like sealing strips or perforated discs (sealing discs) with a rectangular cross-section can be used as seals, which are available inexpensively as mass products.

[0117] An alternative design for the seal involves the use of a formless sealing compound. The formless sealing compound can be extruded or otherwise introduced into the grooves, edge recesses, or joints between the respective contact surfaces (e.g., between the designated second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces)) immediately before the wheel disc is joined to the wheel rim. This provides the sealant with the appropriate spatial confinement and fixation, while completely and securely filling the cavities.

[0118] The sealant can also be applied after the joint has been joined, provided the grooves, edge recesses or joints remain accessible, which can have certain assembly advantages in specific cases.

[0119] The formless sealant can, for example, consist of a curable synthetic resin, such as polyurethane, which hardens after insertion or application.

[0120] Preferably, the seal, whether as a sealing element or sealing compound, consists of an elastic material, in particular of fluororubber.

[0121] Due to the elasticity of the seal material, it can be pressed flush between the respective contact surfaces (e.g. between the intended second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces)) of the connection areas of the wheel disc and the wheel rim and in particular in the grooves or edge-side recesses under the compressive force of the connection, which ensures reliable sealing of the wheel rim.

[0122] The use of fluororubber ensures, due to its high temperature resistance, a high degree of stability of the seal for sealing the wheel rim even under high thermal loads on the vehicle wheel.

[0123] The seal, whether used as a sealing element or sealing compound, is preferably made of silicone. This material, in addition to its high elasticity, is also very temperature-resistant, providing the aforementioned assurances for the tightness of the wheel rim.

[0124] It has proven particularly advantageous that a second contact surface (sealing surface) formed on the connecting surface of the wheel disc and / or a second contact surface (sealing surface) formed on the connecting surface of the wheel rim has a fluid-tight coating. This coating is thus formed between the seal and the sealing surface(s).

[0125] In addition to the intended seal, this coating can more effectively prevent unwanted moisture from penetrating the connection or connection arrangement between the wheel rim and the wheel disc by infiltrating the seal adjacent to the sealing surface(s) and / or diffusing into the boundary areas between the seal and the sealing surface(s).

[0126] Particularly in the case of wheel rims or their connecting areas made of fibre composite material and / or wheel discs or their connecting areas made of fibre composite material, moisture can diffuse into the fibre composite material, so that in combination with metallic parts of the connecting arrangement or metallic wheel discs or wheel rims, corrosion phenomena can occur in the presence of moisture.

[0127] The coating provided can prevent such corrosion phenomena, thus ensuring the permanent strength of the connection between the wheel rim and the wheel disc.

[0128] The fluid-tight coating can, for example, be a layer of paint, such as that used in the coating of fiber composite components, such as wheel rims or wheel discs made of fiber composite material, for moisture and / or UV protection.

[0129] Preferably, an outwardly directed connection surface in the connection area of the wheel disc or wheel rim adjacent to the sealing surface(s) and / or an outwardly directed surface of the wheel disc or wheel rim adjacent to the sealing surface(s) is additionally coated in a fluid-tight manner in order to prevent the penetration of moisture from the outside over a large area and to increase the protective effect.

[0130] Preferably, a coating intended to protect the surface of the wheel disc or wheel rim is formed to extend over the entire surface of the sealing surface(s).

[0131] The embodiment according to the invention includes the fact that the first contact surfaces involved in the force transmission in the connection area of the wheel disc and the wheel rim are excluded from the coating, so that no coating material is located in the force flow of the connection, whereby corrosion protection is achieved that protects the connecting materials without impairing the force transmission in the connection.

[0132] Further advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention will become apparent from the drawings and the associated descriptions of the embodiments.

[0133] The invention is explained in more detail with reference to the following embodiments shown in the figures.

[0134] They show: Fig. 1 a sectional view of a half-side section of a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of connecting elements, with a seal in an annular groove in the contact surface (connection surface) of the connection area of the spoke of the wheel disc, Fig. 2 an isometric sectional view of the star-shaped wheel disc according to Fig. 1 , Fig. 3 a sectional view of a half-side section of a vehicle wheel with a bowl-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of connecting elements, with two seals in each of a groove radially encircling the circumference of the connection area of the wheel rim of the wheel disc in the contact surface (connection surface) of the wheel rim, Fig. 4 an isometric sectional view of the bowl-shaped wheel disc according to Fig. 3 , Fig. 5a a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of connecting arrangements, each with a seal in an annular groove in the contact surface (connection surface) of the connection area of the spoke of the wheel disc, Fig. 5b a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a bowl-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of connecting arrangements, each with two seals in a groove radially running around the circumference of the connection area of the wheel rim of the wheel disc in the contact surface (connection surface) of the wheel rim, Fig. 6a a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of connecting arrangements, each with a seal in an annular recess in an edge zone of the connection area of the spoke of the wheel disc,6b a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a bowl-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of connecting arrangements, with two seals, each in a recess in an edge zone of the connection area of the wheel rim of the wheel disc, Fig. 7 a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a bowl-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of connecting arrangements, with two seals in a groove radially running around the circumference of the connection area of the wheel rim in the contact surface (connection surface) of the connection area of the wheel rim, Fig. 8 a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of alternative connecting arrangements, each with an annular seal between the contact surfaces (connection surfaces) of the connection areas of the wheel rim and the spoke of the wheel disc, Fig.9a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of further alternative connecting arrangements, each with an annular seal between the contact surfaces (connecting surface) of the connecting areas of the wheel rim and the spoke of the wheel disc, Fig. 10a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc connected to a coated wheel rim by means of connecting arrangements, each with a seal in an annular recess in an edge zone of the connecting area of the coated spoke of the wheel disc, Fig. 11a sectional view of a section of a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc connected to the wheel rim by means of alternative connecting arrangements, each with an annular seal between the contact surfaces (connecting surfaces) of the connecting areas of the wheel rim and the spoke of the wheel disc.

[0135] In the examples explained below, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the possible examples encompassed by the invention, and in which there is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced.

[0136] It is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. It is contemplated that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein may be combined with one another, unless expressly stated otherwise. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense; the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0137] In this description, the terms "connected", "join" and "connected / attached" are used to describe both a direct and an indirect connection, a direct or indirect joining and a direct or indirect connection.

[0138] In the figures, identical or similar components / elements are provided with identical reference symbols where appropriate.

[0139] Fig. 1 shows a vehicle wheel with a wheel rim 1 and a star-shaped wheel disc 2 with wheel spokes 3. The wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 are made of an aluminum alloy.

[0140] The wheel rim 1 is connected to the star-shaped wheel disc 2 by means of several connecting elements 4 arranged around the circumference of the wheel rim, corresponding to the number of spokes, which are designed, for example, as a screw. Fig. 1 shows a section directly through a connecting element 4, which leads through a passage 5 of the wheel rim 1 and engages in a joining passage 6 of a wheel spoke 3 of the wheel disc 1, which is designed with an internal thread.

[0141] To connect the star-shaped wheel disc 2 to the wheel rim 1, these wheel elements each have special connection areas with connection surfaces at which these wheel elements connect to one another. The connection area of the star-shaped wheel disc 2 according to the exemplary embodiment is formed at the end of each spoke 3 of the wheel disc 2 and each has a connection surface, which is partially designed as a first contact surface 7.1, which, in the illustrated assembled state of the vehicle wheel, is in direct contact with a first contact surface 8.1 of the connection surface of the connection area of the wheel rim 1.

[0142] As a result of the force-locking connection between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 caused by the connecting elements 4, these first contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1 are subject to considerable surface pressure.

[0143] In a further section of the connection surface of the connection area of the wheel disc 2 or the wheel spokes 3, adjacent to the first contact surfaces 7.1 of the spoke ends of the wheel spokes 3, grooves 9 are formed in a ring shape concentrically arranged around a respective joining groove 6.

[0144] In each of the grooves 9 there is arranged an elastic seal 10 in the form of an O-ring (sealing ring) or a flat seal (annular sealing disc), which consists of fluororubber.

[0145] The seals 10 thus surround the connecting elements 4 at a contact-free distance and enclose the passage 5 through the wheel rim 1.

[0146] Second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) 7.2 are formed in the groove 9, against which the seal 10 rests directly in the assembled state of the vehicle wheel shown.

[0147] In a further section of the connection surface of the connection area of the wheel rim 1, a second contact surface (sealing surface) 8.2 is formed, which is in direct contact with the seal 10 in the illustrated assembled state of the vehicle wheel.

[0148] The elastic seal 10 has a certain oversize compared to the dimensions of the groove 9. Accordingly, the elastic seal 10 is compressed to a defined thickness when the connecting elements 4 are screwed together, which corresponds to the groove depth. The preload force of the screw 4 exerts a compressive force on the seal 10 in the groove 9 via the connection surface of the wheel rim 1 and thus via the contact surfaces 8.1, 8.2 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1, as well as via the connection surface of the wheel disc 2 and thus via the contact surfaces 7.1, 7.2 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1. This compressive force allows the seal 10 to be firmly seated on the sealing surfaces 7.2 of the groove 9 and on the sealing surface 8.2 corresponding to the seal 10 in the connection surface of the wheel rim 1, thus ensuring reliable sealing of the wheel rim 1 or the tire chamber 11 located on the outer side of the rim from the external environment.

[0149] Under the compressive stress of the elastic seal 10, the sealing effect is ensured even under dynamically changing loads on the connection. The fixed arrangement of the sealing ring 10 in the groove 9 also prevents creep of the seal 10 and thus settlement of the connection.

[0150] The force transmission between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 is not influenced by the seal 5 acting partially on the sealing surfaces 7.2, 8.2, since the seal 10 is not directly in the force flow between the corresponding, directly contacting contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1 of the connection areas of the wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1, wherein the exerted pressing force of the sealing ring 10 is negligibly small compared to the preload force of the screw 4 and thus compared to the surface pressure between the corresponding contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1.

[0151] The Fig. 2 shows the star-shaped wheel disc 2 to Fig. 1 in a clear isometric sectional view. The star-shaped wheel disc 2 according to this embodiment comprises a total of eight spokes 3. At the ends of the spokes 3, the connecting surfaces are formed with the contact surfaces 7.1 and—clearly visible—each formed with a groove 9, which is arranged concentrically and annularly around the joining groove 6.

[0152] An O-ring (sealing ring) or a flat seal (annular sealing disc) made of fluororubber is arranged in the grooves 9 as a seal 10.

[0153] Fig. 3 shows a vehicle wheel with a bowl-shaped wheel disc 2. The wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 are made of aluminum alloy.

[0154] The wheel rim 1 is connected to the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 by means of several connecting elements 4 distributed around the circumference, which in the exemplary embodiment are designed as screws. Fig. 3 shows a section directly through a connecting element 4, which engages through a passage 5 of the wheel rim 1 into a joining passage 6 of the wheel disc 2 which is designed with an internal thread.

[0155] To connect the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 to the wheel rim 1, these each have special connection areas with radially circumferential connection surfaces, at which these wheel elements connect to one another. In the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2, the connection area is formed on the outer circumference of the wheel disc 2 (wheel rim) and has a radially circumferential connection surface, which is partially designed as a radially circumferential first contact surface 7.1, which, in the illustrated assembled state of the vehicle wheel, is in direct contact with the radially circumferential first contact surface 8.1 of the connection surface of the connection area of the wheel rim 1.

[0156] In a further section of the connection surface of the connection area of the wheel disc 2, adjacent to the first contact surfaces 7.1 of the wheel disc 2, two grooves 9', 9" are introduced along the circumference of the wheel disc 2, which grooves run at a certain distance on both sides of the joining grooves 6 of the wheel disc 2 arranged around the circumference of the wheel disc.

[0157] Two elastic seals 10', 10'' are arranged in the grooves 9', 9", which are designed as large O-rings (sealing rings) or flat seals (sealing tape) made of fluororubber.

[0158] In the radially circumferential grooves 9', 9" second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) 7.2 are formed, against which the seals 10', 10'' lie directly in the assembled state of the vehicle wheel shown.

[0159] In a further section of the connection surface of the connection area of the wheel rim 1, radially encircling second contact surfaces (sealing surface) 8.2 are formed on both sides of the passages 5 of the connecting elements 4, which, in the illustrated assembled state of the vehicle wheel, are in direct contact with the seals 10', 10''.

[0160] The operating principle of the force transmission of the connection from the connecting element 4 via the first contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1 of the connection areas of the wheel rim of the wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 as well as the sealing effect via the sealing surfaces 7.2, 8.2 by the oversized seals 10', 10'' in the grooves 9', 9" is analogous to the description according to Fig. 1 and 2 , to which reference is made.

[0161] Thus, in the final state shown (assembled state), the two seals 10', 10'' enclose all passages 5 through the wheel rim 1 on both sides and surround all connecting elements 4 at a distance from the connecting elements 4 that is free of contact.

[0162] Due to the external arrangement of the seals 10', 10'' according to the invention, all connecting elements 4 are located together and completely in the overpressure area of the tire chamber 11, so that the connecting elements 4 do not have to be sealed individually.

[0163] In Fig. 4 the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 is Fig. 3 shown in an isometric section for illustration purposes.

[0164] The two grooves 9', 9" which run radially around the circumference of the connection area of the wheel rim of the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 and in which the seals 10', 10'' run annularly are clearly visible.

[0165] The grooves 9', 9" are arranged on both sides of the joining grooves 6, so that the seals 10', 10" in the assembled state of the vehicle wheel (not shown here) completely enclose all connections passing through the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2.

[0166] This design for sealing the wheel rim 1 is particularly efficient because it can be manufactured with little technical and technological effort.

[0167] The Fig. 5a shows a vehicle wheel with a wheel rim 1 and a star-shaped wheel disc 2 with spokes 3, which, compared to the embodiment according to Fig. 1 and 2 by means of several connecting arrangements 12 arranged around the circumference of the wheel rim according to the number of spokes.

[0168] The wheel disc 2 is made of aluminum alloy, while the wheel rim 1 according to this embodiment is made of fiber composite material.

[0169] According to the execution according to Fig. 1 and 2 in the connecting surfaces, in particular in the contact surfaces 7 of the wheel spokes 3, first contact surfaces 7.1 and annular grooves 9 arranged concentrically around a joining groove 6 with second contact surfaces 7.2 are formed, in which an elastic sealing ring 10 or a sealing disc 10 made of fluororubber is arranged.

[0170] The following only describes the differences to the execution according to Fig. 1 and 2 be explained.

[0171] When executing according to Fig. 5a The force-locking connection between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 is achieved by the connecting assemblies 12, each of which consists of a screw 4 as the connecting element 4 and a one-piece bushing 13. The bushing 13 lines the passage 5 of the wheel rim 1 and is flush with the connecting surface, in particular with the contact surface 8.1 of the connecting area of the wheel rim 1. The connecting element 4 is guided through the bushing 13 and engages in the internal thread of the joining groove 6 in the spoke ends of the wheel disc 2, with a screw head 14 of the screw 4 sitting in the conically widened edge of the bushing 13.

[0172] The force flow of the connection takes place here primarily via the connecting element 4 and the bushing 13 onto the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2, wherein a frontal contact surface 15 of the bushing 13 and the first contact surface 8.1 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 together with the first contact surface 7.1 of the connection area of the wheel disc 2, wherein the contact surfaces are in direct contact with one another as shown.

[0173] The bushing 13, preferably made of titanium alloy, serves to protect the fiber composite material of the wheel rim 1 from undesirable vibrational wear by compensating for the forces introduced by the screw 6 into the passage 5 of the wheel rim 1. In particular, the conically flared edge of the bushing 13 reduces the surface pressure in the edge area of the passage 5 through the wheel rim 1.

[0174] In accordance with the invention, in this embodiment too, the annular groove 9 machined into the connection surface, in particular in the contact surface 7 of the wheel disc 2, is spaced from the joining passage 6 in such a way that the inserted seal 10 does not contact the bushing 13 or the frontal contact surface 15 of the bushing 13 in the assembled state.

[0175] Each of the seals 10 thus encloses the entire connection arrangement 12 comprising the connecting element 4 and the socket 13 at a contact-free distance.

[0176] The operating principle of the force transmission of the connection from the connecting element 4 via the contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1, 15 of the connecting areas of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 as well as the sealing effect via the sealing surfaces 7.2, 8.2 by the oversized seal 10 located in the annular groove 9 is analogous to the description according to Fig. 1 and 2 .

[0177] Due to the external arrangement of the seal 10 according to the invention, the entire connection arrangement 12 is located completely in the overpressure area of the tire chamber 11, so that the parts of the connection arrangement 12 involved in the connection do not have to be sealed separately.

[0178] The Fig. 5b shows a representation for an analogue version according to Fig. 5a , but with a bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 using two radially encircling seals 10', 10'' according to the design according to Fig. 3 and 4 .

[0179] According to this, in the radially encircling connection surface, in particular in the contact surface 7 of the wheel rim of the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2, a radially encircling groove 9', 9" is formed on both sides of the connecting arrangements 12, in each of which a radially encircling seal 10', 10" made of, for example, fluororubber is arranged, which seals all the connecting arrangements 12 analogously to the embodiment according to Fig. 3 and 4 frame and seal on both sides.

[0180] In Fig. 6a is a variant of the embodiment according to Fig. 5a Shown is a section of a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc 2 with spokes 3 made of aluminum alloy and a wheel rim 1 made of fiber composite material, connected by several connecting assemblies 12 and with an alternative arrangement of the seal 10.

[0181] In the following, only the differences to the example according to Fig. 5a be explained.

[0182] When designing according to Fig. 6a Instead of an annular groove in the connecting surface, in particular in the contact surface 7 of each spoke end of the star-shaped wheel disc 2, an edge-side, circumferential recess 16 is formed on the outer edge of the connecting surface, in particular in the contact surface 7 of the spoke end and adjacent to the first contact surface 7.1.

[0183] In this thus formed shoulder 16 around the first contact surface 7.1, a seal 10 is arranged as an elastic sealing ring or annular sealing disc 10, which is analogous to the seal design according to Fig. 5a in the connected state to a defined shape and thickness corresponding to the resulting, annular circumferential joint between the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) 8.2 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) 7.2 of the recess 16 in the edge zone of the connection surface of the connection area of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2.

[0184] In this way, as described above, a reliable sealing effect is ensured under the load of the connection and at the same time the force transmission between the wheel rim and the wheel disc is not adversely affected.

[0185] Alternatively, the seal 10 can be Fig. 6a It can also be implemented as a sealing compound, preferably made of silicone, for example. In this case, the seal can be created after final assembly of the vehicle wheel by pressing the sealing compound 10 into the resulting annular gap between the connecting surface, in particular the contact surface 7 of the wheel rim 1, and the recess 16 in the connecting surface of the wheel disc 2, and subsequently allowing it to harden.

[0186] By forming a laterally open shoulder 16 on the edge of the spoke end, an unfavorably narrow residual wall thickness of the spoke end, which can arise, for example, from a groove located on the edge and close to the edge, is avoided and thus the risk of material breaking out of the spoke end, which could impair the reliability of the connection, is avoided.

[0187] This design is therefore suitable for connection arrangements 12 that require particularly large spaces or for very slim spokes that require a seal 10 that is mounted particularly close to the edge of the spoke end in order to ensure the distance to the connection arrangement 12.

[0188] In addition, milling out the recess or the shoulder 16 can be carried out in a very practical and therefore particularly cost-effective manner.

[0189] The Fig. 6b shows a representation for an analogue version according to Fig. 6a , but with a bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 using two seals 10', 10'' arranged in a respective edge-side recess 16', 16" radially surrounding the connection area of the wheel rim of the wheel disc 2 according to Fig. 3 and 4 , which all connection arrangements 12 analogous to the design according to Fig. 3 and 4 Seal on both sides.

[0190] In this case, in the edge zone of the radially circumferential connection surface, in particular in the edge zone of the radially circumferential contact surface 7 of the wheel rim of the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 and adjacent to the radially circumferential first contact surface 7.1, a shoulder 16', 16'' with corresponding radially circumferential second contact surfaces 7.2 is formed on both sides, in which the seals 10', 10'' are arranged.

[0191] In this way, the risk of material breaking away in the edge region of the circumferential connection surface / contact surface 7 of the wheel rim of the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 can be avoided, as compared to a groove formation with a narrow residual wall thickness in the circumferential connection surface / contact surface 7 of the wheel rim of the bowl-shaped wheel disc 2.

[0192] Fig. 7 shows a vehicle wheel with a bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 made of aluminum alloy and a wheel rim 1 made of fiber composite material according to the embodiment according to Fig. 5b and 6b which are connected analogously to these embodiments by means of several connecting arrangements 12 arranged around the circumference of the wheel rim 1, each consisting of a screw 4 and a one-piece bushing 13.

[0193] Below, only the differences to the execution according to Fig. 5b , 6b described.

[0194] When executing according to Fig. 7 In the connection area of the wheel rim 1 there are two radially circumferential grooves 9', 9'', which are machined on both sides of the passages 5 of the wheel rim 1 and at a distance from these in the connection surface, in particular in the contact surface 8 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1.

[0195] The seals 10', 10'' are arranged in these two grooves 9', 9".

[0196] In accordance with the invention, in this embodiment too, the circumferential grooves 9', 9" machined in the connection surface / contact surface 8 are spaced from the passages 5 of the wheel rim 1 in such a way that the inserted seals 10', 10'' do not contact the bushings 13 lining each passage 5.

[0197] This also means that the seals 10', 10'' enclose all connection arrangements 12 of the wheel on both sides and at a contact-free distance.

[0198] The principle of force transmission of the connection from the connecting element 4 via the contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1, 15 of the connecting areas of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 as well as the sealing effect via the sealing surfaces 7.2, 8.2 by the oversized seals 10', 10'' located in the circumferential grooves 9', 9" is analogous to the description according to Fig. 5a, 5b and 6a, 6b or after Fig. 3 and 4 .

[0199] It is conceivable and encompassed by the invention that, as an alternative to the above-described embodiment, Fig. 7 In the connection area of the wheel rim 1, an annular groove 9 is machined into the connection surface / contact surface 8 of the wheel rim 1, spaced by one passage 5 of the wheel rim 1, in which the seal 10 is arranged.

[0200] Thus, each connection arrangement 12 is enclosed and sealed by a seal 10.

[0201] It is further conceivable and encompassed by the invention that the above embodiment according to Fig. 7 alternatively also for a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc 2 with spokes 3 and a wheel rim 1 analogous to the embodiment according to Fig. 5a and 6acan be formed, wherein an annular groove 9 is machined into the individual connection surfaces / contact surfaces 8 of the wheel rim 1 corresponding to the connection surfaces of the spoke ends 3 of the wheel disc 2, at a distance of one passage 5 of the wheel rim 1, in each of which a seal 10 is arranged.

[0202] The Fig. 8 shows a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc 2 with spokes 3 made of aluminum alloy and a wheel rim 1 made of fiber composite material, which is similar to the embodiment according to Fig. 5a and 6a by means of several connecting arrangements 12 arranged around the circumference of the wheel rim 1 according to the number of spokes.

[0203] Below, only the differences to the execution according to Fig. 5a or 6a.

[0204] The force-locking connection between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 is carried out in the design according to Fig. 8 In contrast to the embodiments according to Figures 5a and 6a, by connecting arrangements 12, each of which comprises a screw 4 as the connecting element 4 and a multi-part bushing 13 with two interlocking bushing parts 13.1, 13.2. The bushing parts 13.1, 13.2 can be made of different materials, but in the exemplary embodiment, both consist of titanium alloy.

[0205] The first bushing part 13.1 encloses the passage 5 of the wheel rim 1 and has a projection above the connection surface, in particular above the contact surfaces 8.1, 8.2 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1. A second, perforated disk-shaped bushing part 13.2 annularly encloses the first bushing part 13.1 in the area of the projection and is thus mounted, in the assembled state of the vehicle wheel, between the first contact surface 8.1 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and the first contact surface 7.1 of the connection area of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2. The connecting element 4 is guided through the first bushing part 13.1 and engages in the internal thread of the joining passage 6 in the wheel disc 2, with a screw head 14 of the connecting element 4 sitting in the conically widened edge of the first bushing part 13.1.

[0206] The force flow of the connection to Fig. 8 is carried out primarily via the connecting element 4 and the bushing parts 13.1, 13.2 onto the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2, wherein a frontal contact surface 15.1 of the first bushing part 13.1 is in direct contact with the first contact surface 7.1 of the connection area of the spokes 3 and the two-sided contact surfaces 15.2 of the second bushing part 13.2 are each in direct contact with the first contact surface 8.1 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and with the first contact surface 7.1 of the connection area of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2.

[0207] In this embodiment, the wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 are in contact indirectly via the first contact surface 7.1 of the connection area of the spokes 3 and the first contact surface 8.1 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1, namely via the first bushing part 13.1 and the second bushing part 13.2 of the connecting arrangement 12.

[0208] As a result of the intermediate storage of the second bushing part 13.2 between the first contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1, a gap is formed around the outer edge of the second, perforated disc-shaped bushing part 13.2 between the remaining connection surface / contact surface 8 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and the remaining connection surface / contact surface 7 of the spoke ends of the wheel disc 2.

[0209] This resulting gap can be used for the arrangement of the seal 10, e.g. an oversized sealing ring or a sealing compound, which in the assembled state rests against the sealing surfaces 7.2, 8.2 of the wheel disc 2 or the wheel rim 1, whereby, in accordance with the above statements, a reliable sealing effect is ensured under the load of the connection and the force transmission between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 remains unaffected.

[0210] Due to the arrangement of the seal 10 according to the invention, the entire connection arrangement 12 is located completely in the overpressure area of the tire chamber 11, so that the parts 4, 13.1, 13.2 of the connection arrangement 12 involved in the connection do not have to be sealed separately.

[0211] According to the invention, the seal 10 is designed and arranged such that it has a radial distance from the circumference of the perforated disc-shaped, second bushing part 13.2, so that the seal 10 also remains largely unaffected by the micro-movements of the connecting arrangement 12.

[0212] This version of the connection arrangement 12 according to Fig. 8 Firstly, it improves the compensation of micro-movements occurring in the connection. The multi-part bushing with bushing components 13.1 and 13.2 allows the vibrational friction wear of the fiber composite material of the wheel rim 1 resulting from the micro-movements between the wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 to be further reduced without compromising the sealing effect. This further increases the reliability of the connection between a wheel disc 2 and a wheel rim 1, particularly one made of fiber-fiber composite material.

[0213] On the other hand, the geometry of the two-part bushing 13.1, 13.2 projecting on the inside of the rim minimizes the necessary precautions for the placement and fixing of the seal 10 between the connecting surfaces / contact surfaces 7, 8 of the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2. Above all, no grooves, shoulders or recesses need to be provided in the connecting surfaces / contact surfaces 7, 8 to secure the position of the seal 10, which on the one hand simplifies and enables the production of the sealing connection of the vehicle wheel at a lower cost and on the other hand avoids a local weakening of the wheel rim 1, in particular made of fiber composite material, and the wheel disc 2.

[0214] The Fig. 9 shows a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc 2 with spokes 3 made of aluminum alloy and a wheel rim 1 made of fiber composite material similar to the embodiment according to Fig. 8 .

[0215] When executing according to Fig. 9 The force-locking connection between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 is effected by a plurality of connecting arrangements 12 arranged around the circumference of the vehicle wheel in accordance with the number of spokes, each of which comprises a screw 4 as a connecting element 4 and a bushing 13.1 enclosing the passage 5 and projecting beyond the connecting surface and in particular beyond the contact surfaces 8.1, 8.2 of the wheel rim 1, analogous to the first bushing part 13.1 in the embodiment according to Fig. 8 , and further comprise a perforated disc 17 arranged separately from the socket part 13.1.

[0216] For example, bushing 13.1 and perforated disc 17 are made of a titanium alloy.

[0217] When the vehicle wheel is mounted, the perforated disc 17 is mounted between the connection surface / contact surface 8 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and the connection surface / contact surface 7 of the connection area of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2, with the perforated disc 17 extensively surrounding the passage 5 of the wheel rim 1. The perforated disc 17 has an angled edge that surrounds the edge area of the connection surface of the spoke end 3 of the wheel disc 2 and simultaneously fixes the perforated disc 17 in its position.

[0218] The connecting element 4 is guided through the bushing part 13.1 and engages in the internal thread of the joining passage 6 in the wheel disc 2, whereby a screw head 14 sits in the conically widened edge of the bushing part 13.1.

[0219] The force flow of the connection here occurs primarily via the connecting element 4, the bushing part 13.1 and the perforated disc 17 onto the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2, wherein the frontal contact surface 15.1 of the bushing part 13.1 is in direct contact with the first contact surface 7.1 of the connection area of the spokes 3 and the two-sided contact surfaces 18 of the perforated disc 17 are each in direct contact with the first contact surface 7.1 of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2 and with the first contact surface 8.1 of the wheel rim 1.

[0220] In this embodiment, too, the wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 are in contact indirectly via the first contact surface 7.1 of the connection area of the spokes 3 and the first contact surface 8.1 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1, namely via the bushing part 13.1 and the perforated disc 17 of the connecting arrangement 12.

[0221] The perforated disc 17 is designed and arranged such that in the assembled state an annular cavity is formed on the inside (hole side), which is delimited by a free section of the connection surface / contact surface 8 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1, a free section of the connection surface / contact surface 7 of the connection area of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2 and a circumferential surface of the bushing part 13.1.

[0222] This cavity can be used for the arrangement of the seal 10, in particular as a sealing ring or annular sealing disc.

[0223] In the assembled state, the seal 10 is mounted in the cavity with play / spaced between the outer wall / outer circumferential surface of the bushing 13.1 and the inner wall of the perforated disc 17 and seals the tire chamber 11 of the wheel rim 1 at a contact-free and damage-free distance from the connecting arrangement 12 in accordance with the reliable sealing method according to the above statements.

[0224] When executing according to Fig. 9 not the entire connection arrangement 12, but in addition to the connecting element 4 only the socket part 13.1 of the connection arrangement 12 is located in the overpressure area of the tire chamber 11, wherein the seal 10 is arranged surrounded by a further component of the connection arrangement (perforated disc 17).

[0225] This ensures, on the one hand, a secure sealing of the tire chamber 11 of the wheel rim 1 and, on the other hand, additional protection of the seal 10 against external damaging environmental influences.

[0226] According to the invention, the embedded seal 10 is designed and arranged such that, on the one hand, it surrounds the outer wall / outer peripheral surface of the bushing 13.1 at a distance and, on the other hand, is arranged at a distance from the inner wall of the perforated disc 17.

[0227] Thus, the embedded seal 10 is located at a contact-free, damage-free distance from the connection arrangement 12 and is also protected from external damaging environmental influences in its enclosed arrangement.

[0228] Even in the above execution according to Fig. 9 Grooves, steps or recesses for securing the position of the seal 10 in the connecting surfaces / contact surfaces 7, 8 of the wheel rim 1 or the wheel disc 2 are unnecessary, which on the one hand makes the production of the sealing connection of the vehicle wheel simpler and more cost-effective and on the other hand avoids local weakening of the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2.

[0229] Last but not least, the externally visible perforated disc 17 of the connecting arrangement 12 can be used to design the vehicle wheel.

[0230] The execution according to Fig. 9 is also conceivable as a design with a bowl-shaped wheel disc 2 using one or more perforated plates (perforated sheet metal strips) running around the circumference of the wheel rim of the wheel disc 2 and enclosing the wheel rim (not shown).

[0231] A perforated plate (not shown) formed as a whole / one-piece can be formed radially in a band-like manner with corresponding hole recesses around the circumference of the wheel rim in order to surround the passages of the connecting elements 4 or the connecting arrangements 12 and their seals (sealing rings) 10 at a distance in the assembled state.

[0232] For example, several perforated plates can be arranged in two parts on both sides of the wheel rim of the wheel disc 2 and can be radially band-shaped with a constant or varying band width or with corresponding recesses running around the circumference of the wheel rim, so as to surround the passages of the connecting elements 4 or the connecting assemblies 12 and their seals (sealing rings or radially circumferential seals) 10 at a distance in the assembled state. The two split perforated plates can be designed such that they abut one another in the spaces adjacent to the seals (sealing rings) 10.

[0233] These designs can also enclose the sealing rings 10 completely and with play, which in turn enclose all connecting elements 4 or connecting arrangements 12 with play and completely seal.

[0234] Such designs and arrangements of the perforated plate or perforated plates also protect the sealing rings 10 from external, damaging environmental influences.

[0235] The Fig. 10 shows a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc 2 with spokes 3 made of aluminum alloy, for example EN AW-6082, and a wheel rim 1 made of fiber composite material, for example CFRP with epoxy resin matrix, which is analogous to the embodiment according to Fig. 6a by means of several connecting arrangements 12 arranged around the circumference of the wheel rim 1 according to the number of spokes.

[0236] Below, only the differences to the execution according to Fig. 6a discussed.

[0237] The seal 10 is arranged in the annular circumferential joint between the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) 8.2 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) 7.2 of the recess 16 in the edge zone of the connection surface of the connection area of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2.

[0238] The inner surface of the wheel rim 1 and the surface of the spokes 3 of the wheel disc 2 are each covered with a coating 19 / paint layer 19, for example, based on a two-component acrylic paint system, which primarily serves to provide mechanical protection and impermeability to the fiber composite wheel rim 1 and the aluminum wheel disc 2. The coating 19 can be constructed in multiple layers, consisting of individual paint layers 19.

[0239] This coating 19 / paint layer 19 additionally covers the second contact surface (sealing surface) 8.2 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) 7.2 of the recess 16 completely, so that the coating / paint layer 19 is arranged between the seal 10 and the respective second contact surfaces 7.2 and 8.2.

[0240] This coating 19 / paint layer 19 prevents moisture from outside and via the boundary areas between the seal 10 and the sealing surface(s) 7.2, 8.2 from penetrating into the connection between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 and into the connection arrangement 12, whereby corrosion phenomena due to the material combinations used between the wheel rim 1, the wheel disc 2 and the connection arrangement 12 can be avoided.

[0241] The first force-transmitting contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1 in the connection area of the wheel disc 2 and the wheel rim 1 explicitly do not have a coating 19, so that it is avoided that coating material is located in the force flow of the connection in order not to impair the effectiveness of the force transmission to ensure the high connection quality.

[0242] This design of the coating 19 can also be used in all of the embodiments described above.

[0243] The Fig. 11 shows a vehicle wheel with a star-shaped wheel disc 2 with spokes 3 made of aluminum alloy and a wheel rim 1 made of fiber composite material, which is similar to the embodiment according to Fig. 8 by means of several connecting arrangements 12 arranged around the circumference of the wheel rim 1 according to the number of spokes.

[0244] Below, only the differences to the execution according to Fig. 8 explained.

[0245] The connecting assemblies 12 for the frictional connection between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 each comprise a screw 4 as the connecting element 4 and a multi-part long bushing 20 with two interlocking bushing parts 20.1, 20.2. The multi-part long bushing 20 consists of a first long bushing part 20.1, which encloses the passage 5 of the wheel rim 1 and coaxially surrounds the connecting element 4, and a second, perforated disc-shaped long bushing part 20.2, which annularly surrounds the first long bushing part 20.1.

[0246] The connecting element 4 is guided through the first long bushing part 20.1 and engages in the internal thread of the joining passage 6 in the wheel disc 2, whereby the screw head 14 sits in the conically widened edge of the long bushing part 20.1.

[0247] The second, perforated disc-shaped long bushing part 20.2 is mounted in the assembled state of the vehicle wheel between the first contact surface 8.1 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and the first contact surface 7.1 of the connection area of the spoke ends 3 of the wheel disc 2.

[0248] In the assembled state of the vehicle wheel, the shaft of the first long bushing part 20.1 has a significant projection over the contact surfaces 8.1, 8.2 of the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and over the second, perforated disk-shaped long bushing part 20.2, wherein the shaft of the first long bushing part 20.1 extends into a recess of the joining channel 6 of the spoke 3 of the wheel disc 2 corresponding to the shape of the shaft, so that the long bushing part 20.1 is positively connected to the wheel disc 2.

[0249] The seal 10, e.g., an oversized sealing ring or a sealing compound, can be arranged in the gap formed by the intermediate mounting of the second long bushing part 20.2 between the contact surfaces 7.1, 8.1 between the connection area of the wheel rim 1 and the spoke ends 3. This seal is designed and arranged such that it maintains a radial distance from the circumference of the second long bushing part 20.2. In this way, the seal remains largely unaffected by the force transmission and dynamic micro-movements between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2, thus ensuring a reliable sealing effect.

[0250] With this design of the connection arrangement 12 by means of the multi-part long bushing 20, a particularly efficient differentiation of the force transmission via the connection is achieved, in that the screw 4 as a connecting element selectively takes over the transmission of the longitudinal or tensile forces in the axial direction and the coaxially surrounding long bushing part 20.1 realizes the absorption of transverse forces and bending moments in the radial direction.

[0251] In contrast to Fig. 8 , where the transverse forces and bending moments are transmitted in the radial direction by the frictional engagement resulting from the screw preload, the positive embedding of the first long bushing part 20.1 in the spoke 3 results in a significantly stiffer and play-free connection between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2. This allows the dynamic micro-movements between the wheel rim 1 and the wheel disc 2 to be further reduced, whereby the influence of these micro-movements on the seal 10 is further reduced and the sealing effect can thus be further improved.

[0252] The invention naturally also encompasses embodiments of connecting arrangements 12 which have a one-piece long bushing 20, which, for example, consists only of the first long bushing part 20.1. These could, with the same advantageous effects described above, for example, be used as an alternative to the bushing 13 in the embodiments according to Fig. 5a, 5b , 6a, 6b and 7 be applied.

[0253] The term "and / or" as used in the claims, when used in a series of two or more elements, means that any of the listed elements may be used alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed elements may be used.

[0254] For example, if a relationship is described that includes the components A, B and / or C, the possible relationship may include the components A alone; B alone; C alone; A and B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B, and C in combination. Bezugszeichenliste

[0255] 1Wheel rim 2Wheel disc 3Spoke 4Connecting element, screw 5Passage of the wheel rim 6Joint of the wheel disc 7Contact surface (of the connection area of the wheel disc) 7.1 first contact surface, 7.2 second contact surface (sealing surface) 8Contact surface (of the connection area of the wheel rim) 8.1 first contact surface, 8.2 second contact surface (sealing surface) 9Groove '," 10Seal, sealing ring, sealing washer, sealing compound '," 11Tire chamber 12Connecting arrangement 13 Bushing, bushing part 13.1 first bushing part, 13.2 second bushing part 14Screw head 15Contact surface (of the bushing, the bushing part) 15.1 Contact surface of the first bushing part 15.2 Contact surface of the second bushing part 16Recess, shoulder '," 17Perforated disc 18Contact surface (of the Perforated disc) 19Coating / lacquer layer 20Long bushing 20.1 First long bushing part 20.2 Second long bushing part 21Contact surface (of the long bushing, of the long bushing part) 21.1 Contact surface of the first long bushing part 21.2 Contact surface of the second long bushing part

Claims

1. Vehicle wheel which has a wheel disc, a wheel rim and a plurality of connecting elements which connect the wheel disc to the wheel rim, these connecting elements being guided through passages in the wheel rim and being joined in the wheel disc, and seals being provided for hermetically sealing the passages in the wheel rim, F wherein J Z the seals (10) are arranged between a connection region of the wheel disc (2) and a connection region of the wheel rim (1), F characterized in that J the seals (10) surround the connecting elements (4) without contact and in each case one seal (10) is arranged as an annular sealing element coaxially circumferentially around a respective connecting element (4) and wherein grooves (9), in which the seals (10) are arranged, are formed in connecting surfaces of the connecting region of the wheel disc (2) and / or in connecting surfaces of the connecting region of the wheel rim (1).

2. Vehicle wheel according to claim 1, characterized in that the seals (10) are arranged between at least one contact surface of the connection region of the wheel disc (2) and at least one contact surface of the connection region of the wheel rim (1).

3. Vehicle wheel according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a connecting element (4) is in each case part of a multi-part connecting arrangement (12), the seals being arranged without contact with the connecting arrangements (12).

4. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 2 to 3, characterized in that the seals (19) are designed and arranged in such a way that at least one connecting surface or a section of a connecting surface of the wheel disc (2) and at least one connecting surface or a section of a connecting surface of the wheel rim (1) are each designed as a first contact surface (7.1, 8.1) for direct contact of the wheel disc 82) with the wheel rim (1) and / or the wheel rim (1) by means of a connecting arrangement (12).

5. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 2 to 4, characterized in that at least one connecting surface or a section of a connecting surface of the wheel disc (2) and at least one connecting surface or a section of a connecting surface of the wheel rim (1) are each designed as a second contact surface (7.2, 8.2) for direct contact of the seal(s) (10) with the wheel disc (2) and with the wheel rim (1).

6. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the connecting arrangement (12) has one or more bushing parts (13, 13.1, 13.2).

7. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the connecting arrangement (12) comprises one or more perforated disc(s) (17) and / or one or more perforated plate(s).

8. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the seals (10) are arranged coaxially circumferentially around one or more connecting arrangement(s) (12).

9. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the seals (10) are bonded to the second contact surfaces (7.2) of the connecting region of the wheel disc (2) and / or to the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) (8.2) of the connection region of the wheel rim (1).

10. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 2 to 9, characterized in that in an edge zone (16) of a connection surface, in particular in an edge zone of the contact surface (7) of the connecting region of the wheel disc (2) and / or in an edge zone of a connecting surface, in particular in an edge zone of the contact surface (8) of the connecting region of the wheel rim (1), a recess (16) is formed in which the seals (10) are arranged.

11. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the seals (10) are formed from a sealing compound.

12. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the seals (10) are made of elastic material, in particular of fluorine rubber or silicone.

13. Vehicle wheel to one of the preceding claims 5 to 12, characterized in that the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) (7.2) of the connecting region of the wheel disc (2) and / or the second contact surfaces (sealing surfaces) (8.2) of the connecting region of the wheel rim (1) have a fluid-tight coating (19).

14. Vehicle wheel according to one of the claims 3 to 13, characterized in that the connecting arrangement (12) comprises one or more long bushing parts (20, 20.1, 20.2).