tire

Abstract

The present invention provides a tire that can effectively protect the shoulder, which is located on the outside of the tread in the axial direction of the tire. [Solution] This tire 100 comprises a tread 1 and a shoulder 2 positioned outside the tread 1 in the tire axial direction. The shoulder 2 includes a pair of circumferential portions 211 and 212 that extend in the tire circumferential direction while being spaced apart from each other in the tire radial direction, and a protector 21 is formed that protrudes in the tire axial direction.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] This invention relates to a tire.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, tires have been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a tire including a tread and a sidewall extending from the tread inward in the tire radial direction. A protector protruding in the tire axial direction is formed on the sidewall of this tire.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the tire of Patent Document 1 described above, since a protector is formed on the sidewall, the sidewall can be protected even when the sidewall is rubbed against a curb or the like. However, in the tire of Patent Document 1, it is difficult to effectively protect the shoulder disposed on the tread side and outside the tread in the tire axial direction, rather than the sidewall. Therefore, it is desired to effectively protect the shoulder disposed between the tread and the sidewall in the tire axial direction.

[0006] This invention has been made to solve the above problems, and one object of this invention is to provide a tire capable of effectively protecting a shoulder disposed between a tread and a sidewall in the tire axial direction.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To achieve the above objective, a tire according to one aspect of this invention comprises a tread and a shoulder positioned outside the tread in the tire axial direction, wherein a protector is formed on the shoulder, including a pair of circumferential portions that extend in the tire circumferential direction and protrude in the tire axial direction, spaced apart from each other in the tire radial direction.

[0008] In a tire according to one aspect of this invention, as described above, a protector is formed on the shoulder, including a pair of circumferential portions that extend in the tire circumferential direction and protrude in the tire axial direction, spaced apart from each other in the tire radial direction. As a result, when the tire rotates and the shoulder comes into contact with a curb or the like, the pair of circumferential portions that protrude in the tire axial direction and are spaced apart in the tire radial direction rub against the curb, thus distributing the stress caused by the friction of the shoulder. Furthermore, the pair of circumferential portions are more easily deformed in the tire radial direction and can release stress more easily than if there were one large protruding portion in the tire circumferential direction, making the protector itself less susceptible to damage. Thus, damage to the shoulder can be effectively suppressed even when it comes into contact with a curb or the like. As a result, the shoulder, which is located between the tread and the sidewall in the tire axial direction, can be effectively protected.

[0009] In the tire according to the first aspect described above, preferably, the protector further includes a radial portion that extends in the tire radial direction and protrudes in the tire axial direction, connecting one end of a pair of circumferential portions in the tire circumferential direction. With this configuration, the pair of circumferential portions are connected by the radial portion, thereby increasing the mechanical strength (rigidity) of the pair of circumferential portions. In addition, when the shoulder and the curb rub in the tire radial direction, the radial portion rubs against the curb, effectively protecting the shoulder.

[0010] In a tire in which the protector has a radial portion, preferably the protector is formed by a hook-shaped projection facing the circumferential direction of the tire. With this configuration, the hook-shaped protector facing the circumferential direction of the tire can effectively protect the shoulder from both circumferential and radial abrasion against the curb.

[0011] In a tire in which the protector has a radial portion, preferably, the protector is formed by a substantially U-shaped projection facing the circumferential direction of the tire. With this configuration, compared to when the protector is formed by a single large rectangular projection, the protector can be made more deformable, and stress caused by friction can be appropriately relieved and effectively distributed by the substantially U-shaped protector. As a result, the shoulder can be protected more effectively.

[0012] In the tire having the first aspect described above, preferably, the protector is formed such that the length of the inner first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction is greater than the length of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction, and the other end of the first circumferential portion protrudes further in the tire circumferential direction than the other end of the second circumferential portion. With this configuration, the shoulder can be protected over a long area in the tire circumferential direction by the first circumferential portion, which is longer than the second circumferential portion and whose other end protrudes further than the second circumferential portion.

[0013] In a tire in which the protector has a radial portion, preferably, the length of the radial portion of the protector in the tire radial direction is smaller than the length of the inner first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction and the length of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress the increase in the length of the protector in the tire radial direction, so that the protector can be positioned in a balanced manner on the shoulder where the length in the tire radial direction is smaller than the length in the tire circumferential direction.

[0014] In the tire with the first aspect described above, preferably, the protector is formed such that the length in the tire radial direction of the portion on the other end side of the inner first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction is greater than the length in the tire radial direction of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction. With this configuration, the mechanical strength (rigidity) of the first circumferential portion can be increased in the portion on the other end side where the length in the tire radial direction of the first circumferential portion is larger.

[0015] In this case, preferably, the protector is formed such that the portion of the first circumferential portion at the other end protrudes further inward in the tire radial direction than the portion at the one end of the first circumferential portion. With this configuration, the portion at the other end of the first circumferential portion can be positioned further inward in the tire radial direction than the portion at the one end, so that the shoulder can be protected by the protector over a wide area in the tire radial direction.

[0016] In a tire in which the protector has a configuration that includes a radial portion, preferably, the protector is formed such that the length of the radial portion in the tire circumferential direction is greater than the length of the second circumferential portion, which is the outermost of the pair of circumferential portions in the tire radial direction. With this configuration, the length of the radial portion in the tire circumferential direction can be increased, so that the pair of circumferential portions and the radial portion can more effectively protect the shoulder from abrasion in the tire circumferential direction.

[0017] In the tire according to the first aspect described above, preferably, multiple protectors are provided along the circumferential direction of the tire between each lug groove formed in the shoulder. With this configuration, each portion of the shoulder separated by the lug grooves can be effectively protected by the protectors.

[0018] In this case, preferably, the protector is formed in the shoulder within the range from the ground contact end of the tread to the end of the lug groove. With this configuration, the shoulder can be effectively protected by the protector within the range from the ground contact end of the tread to the end of the lug groove.

[0019] In the tire according to the above aspect, preferably, the protector is formed such that the thickness protruding in the tire axial direction is 0.5 mm or more and 2 mm or less. With this configuration, the shoulder can be effectively protected by the protector having a thickness of 0.5 mm or more. Also, by making the thickness of the protector 2 mm or less, it is possible to suppress the protector from protruding excessively from the shoulder.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] According to the present invention, as described above, the shoulder disposed between the tread and the sidewall in the tire axial direction can be effectively protected.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view showing a tire according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the tire along the line II-II of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a view showing the tread and shoulder of a tire according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a view showing a protector of a shoulder of a tire according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a view showing a protector of a shoulder of a tire according to a first modification of the embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a view showing a protector of a shoulder of a tire according to a second modification of the embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a view showing a protector of a shoulder of a tire according to a third modification of the embodiment. [Figure 8]This figure shows a tire shoulder protector according to a fourth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows a tire shoulder protector according to a fifth modified example of the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] The following describes embodiments of the present invention based on the drawings.

[0023] The configuration of the tire 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4.

[0024] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the tire 100 is mounted on a wheel, filled with air, and configured to support loads by air pressure. In other words, the tire 100 is a pneumatic tire. The tire 100 is also mounted on a moving body via a wheel so as to rotate around a rotation axis. The moving body is a vehicle such as a passenger car, truck, or bus. The vehicle is driven and moved by a drive mechanism that includes, for example, an engine and at least one of a motor.

[0025] The Tire 100 is an all-season tire that can be used throughout the year, including, for example, the snow-free summer and the snowy winter.

[0026] The tire 100 includes a tread 1, a shoulder 2, a sidewall 3, and a bead 4. The tread 1 is the part that contacts the ground and has a tread pattern with a ridged shape formed on its outer surface. The shoulder 2 is connected to the tread 1 and forms the outermost side of the tire 100. The sidewall 3 is connected to the shoulder 2 and forms the side of the tire 100. The bead 4 contacts the wheel and is configured to secure the tire 100 to the wheel.

[0027] (Tread composition) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the tread 1 includes a center block 11, a shoulder block 12, and a circumferential groove 13 provided between the center block 11 and the shoulder block 12.

[0028] The center block 11 is positioned between a pair of shoulder blocks 12. In other words, the center block 11 is located in the central part of the tread 1 in the tire axial direction (Z direction).

[0029] The center block 11 has circumferential grooves 111 that define the center block 11 in the tire axial direction (Z direction). The center block 11 also has sipes 112. The sipes 112 are formed to connect to either the circumferential grooves 111 or the circumferential grooves 13. The sipes 112 are also formed in a zigzag shape. The sipes 112 are grooves formed in the center block 11.

[0030] The shoulder blocks 12 are positioned in pairs on the outer side of the tread 1 in the tire axial direction (Z direction). In other words, the shoulder blocks 12 are positioned on the shoulder 2 side (both outer sides in the Z direction) of the tread 1.

[0031] The shoulder block 12 extends from the circumferential groove 13 so as to be inclined outward in the tire axial direction and has a plurality of shoulder slits 121 that divide the shoulder block 12. The shoulder block 12 also has sipes 122. The sipes 122 are connected to the circumferential groove 13 and are formed to extend along the same inclination angle as the shoulder slits 121. Furthermore, the sipes 122 are formed in a zigzag shape along the inclination angle. The sipes 122 are grooves formed in the shoulder block 12.

[0032] (Shoulder configuration) Shoulder 2 is located on the outside of tread 1 in the tire axial direction (Z direction). In other words, shoulder 2 is located between the shoulder block 12 of tread 1 and the sidewall 3 in the tire axial direction. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, shoulder 2 is provided with a protector 21 that protrudes in the tire axial direction (Z direction). The protector 21 is configured to protect shoulder 2 in the event that shoulder 2 comes into contact with a curb or other protruding object. Protectors 21 are provided on both sides of shoulder 2 in the tire axial direction.

[0033] Furthermore, the shoulder 2 extends in the tire radial direction (R direction) and is provided with multiple lug grooves 22 that divide the shoulder 2 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction). The lug grooves 22 are connected to shoulder slits 121 provided in the shoulder block 12 of the tread 1.

[0034] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 includes a pair of circumferential portions (a first circumferential portion 211 and a second circumferential portion 212) that extend in the circumferential direction (θ direction) of the tire and protrude in the axial direction (Z direction) of the tire, spaced apart from each other in the radial direction (R direction) of the tire. The first circumferential portion 211 is positioned inward in the radial direction of the tire compared to the second circumferential portion 212. In other words, the second circumferential portion 212 is positioned outward in the radial direction of the tire compared to the first circumferential portion 211.

[0035] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 includes a radial portion 213 that extends in the tire radial direction (R direction) and protrudes in the tire axial direction (Z direction) so as to connect one end of the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction). Specifically, the radial portion 213 connects one end 2111 of the first circumferential portion 211 and one end 2121 of the second circumferential portion 212.

[0036] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 is formed by hook-shaped protrusions facing in the circumferential direction (θ direction) of the tire. In other words, the protector 21 is formed by roughly U-shaped protrusions facing in the circumferential direction (θ direction) of the tire.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the protector 21 is formed to protrude in the tire axial direction (Z direction). The protector 21 is formed to have a thickness H1 that protrudes in the tire axial direction. For example, the protector 21 is formed to have a thickness H1 that protrudes in the tire axial direction of 0.5 mm or more and 2 mm or less.

[0038] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, both sides of the protector 21 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) are inclined by an angle α with respect to the tire radial direction (R direction). Specifically, the other end 2112 of the first circumferential portion 211 of the protector 21 is inclined by an angle α with respect to the tire radial direction (R direction). Also, the other end 2122 of the second circumferential portion 212 is inclined by an angle α with respect to the tire radial direction (R direction). In addition, one end 2111 of the first circumferential portion 211 and one end 2121 of the second circumferential portion 212, and the radial portion 213 are inclined by an angle α with respect to the tire radial direction (R direction). The angle α is, for example, 30 degrees or less.

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 is formed such that the length L1 of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction (R direction) is greater than the length L2 of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction. In other words, length L1 > length L2.

[0040] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 has the other end 2112 of the first circumferential portion 211 protruding further in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) than the other end 2122 of the second circumferential portion 212. In other words, the protector 21 is formed such that the first circumferential portion 211 protrudes further than the second circumferential portion 212 on the opposite end to the end where the radial portion 213 is located in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction).

[0041] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 is formed such that the length L3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire radial direction (R direction) is smaller than the length L1 of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction (θ direction) and the length L2 of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction. In other words, length L1 > length L2 > length L3.

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 is formed such that the length W1 in the tire radial direction (R direction) of the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the inner first circumferential portion 211 is larger than the length W2 in the tire radial direction of the outer second circumferential portion 212. Also, the first circumferential portion 211 is formed such that the length W1 in the tire radial direction of the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side is larger than the length W4 in the tire radial direction of the portion 211b on the one end 2111 side. For example, length W1 is more than twice the size of length W4.

[0043] In other words, the protector 21 is formed such that the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the first circumferential portion 211 protrudes inward in the tire radial direction (R direction) than the portion 211b on the one end 2111 side of the first circumferential portion 211.

[0044] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 is formed such that the length L4 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) of the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the first circumferential portion 211 is smaller than the length L2 in the tire circumferential direction of the second circumferential portion 212. In other words, length L1 > length L2 > length L4.

[0045] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 is provided such that the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the first circumferential portion 211 overlaps with the second circumferential portion 212 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction).

[0046] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the protector 21 is formed such that the length W3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) is greater than the length W2 of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction (R direction) of the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212). Also, the protector 21 is formed such that the length W3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire circumferential direction is greater than the length W4 of the portion 211b on one end 2111 of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction of the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212). Furthermore, the protector 21 is formed such that the length W3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire circumferential direction is smaller than the length W1 of the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction, which is one of a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212). In other words, length W1 > length W3 > length W2 > length W4.

[0047] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, multiple protectors 21 are provided along the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) between each lug groove 22 formed in the shoulder 2. The multiple protectors 21 are formed to be identical in shape. Additionally, the protectors 21 are formed in the shoulder 2 in the range from the contact edge of the tread 1 to the end of the lug groove 22.

[0048] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the protector 21 is positioned to overlap with the sipes 122 of the shoulder block 12 in the circumferential direction (θ direction) of the tire.

[0049] (Effects of the embodiment) In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0050] In this embodiment, as described above, a protector 21 is formed on the shoulder 2, including a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) that extend in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) and protrude in the tire axial direction (Z direction) while being spaced apart from each other in the tire radial direction (R direction). As a result, when the shoulder 2 comes into contact with a curb or the like while the tire 100 is rotating, the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) that protrude in the tire axial direction and are spaced apart in the tire radial direction rub against the curb, thus distributing the stress caused by the friction of the shoulder 2 by the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212). Furthermore, since the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) are more easily deformable in the tire radial direction and can release stress more easily than when a single large protruding portion in the tire circumferential direction is provided, the protector 21 itself can be made less susceptible to damage. These features effectively prevent damage to the shoulder 2 even if it comes into contact with a curb or other obstacle. As a result, the shoulder 2, which is positioned between the tread 1 and the sidewall 3 in the axial direction of the tire, can be effectively protected.

[0051] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 includes a radial portion 213 that extends in the tire radial direction (R direction) and protrudes in the tire axial direction (Z direction) so as to connect one end of the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction). As a result, the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) are connected by the radial portion 213, thereby increasing the mechanical strength (rigidity) of the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212). In addition, when the shoulder 2 and the curb rub in the tire radial direction, the radial portion 213 rubs against the curb, effectively protecting the shoulder 2.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed by hook-shaped protrusions facing in the circumferential direction (θ direction) of the tire. As a result, the hook-shaped protector 21 facing in the circumferential direction of the tire can effectively protect the shoulder 2 from both circumferential and radial (R direction) abrasion of the shoulder 2 against the curb.

[0053] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed by a substantially U-shaped protruding portion facing the tire circumferential direction (θ direction). This makes the protector 21 more deformable compared to the case where the protector 21 is formed by a single large rectangular protruding portion, allowing the stress caused by friction to be appropriately released and effectively distributed by the substantially U-shaped protector 21. As a result, the shoulder 2 can be protected more effectively.

[0054] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed such that the length L1 of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction (R direction) is greater than the length L2 of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction. In addition, the other end 2112 of the first circumferential portion 211 protrudes further in the tire circumferential direction than the other end 2122 of the second circumferential portion 212. As a result, the shoulder 2 can be protected over a long area in the tire circumferential direction by the first circumferential portion 211, which is longer than the second circumferential portion 212 in the tire circumferential direction, and whose other end 2112 protrudes further than the second circumferential portion 212.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed such that the length L3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire radial direction (R direction) is smaller than the length L1 of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction (θ direction) and the length L2 of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction. This suppresses an increase in the length of the protector 21 in the tire radial direction, allowing the protector 21 to be positioned in a balanced manner on the shoulder 2 where the length in the tire radial direction is smaller than the length in the tire circumferential direction.

[0056] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed such that the length W1 in the tire radial direction of the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction (R direction) is larger than the length W2 in the tire radial direction of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction. This makes it possible to increase the mechanical strength (rigidity) of the first circumferential portion 211 in the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side where the length of the first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction is larger.

[0057] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed such that the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the first circumferential portion 211 protrudes inward in the tire radial direction (R direction) than the portion 211b on the one end 2111 side of the first circumferential portion 211. As a result, the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the first circumferential portion 211 can be positioned inward in the tire radial direction than the portion 211b on the one end 2111 side, so that the shoulder 2 can be protected by the protector 21 over a wide area in the tire radial direction.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed such that the length W3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) is greater than the length W2 of the second circumferential portion 212, which is the outermost portion in the tire radial direction (R direction) of the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212). This makes it possible to increase the length W3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire circumferential direction, so that the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) and the radial portion 213 can more effectively protect the shoulder 2 from abrasion in the tire circumferential direction.

[0059] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, multiple protectors 21 are provided along the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) between each lug groove 22 formed in the shoulder 2. This allows each portion of the shoulder 2 separated by the lug groove 22 to be effectively protected by the protectors 21.

[0060] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed on the shoulder 2 in the range from the contact edge of the tread 1 to the end of the lug groove 22. This allows the shoulder 2 to be effectively protected by the protector 21 in the range from the contact edge of the tread 1 to the end of the lug groove 22.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the protector 21 is formed with a thickness H1 that protrudes in the tire axial direction (Z direction) of 0.5 mm or more and 2 mm or less. This allows the shoulder 2 to be effectively protected by the protector 21 with a thickness of 0.5 mm or more. In addition, by making the thickness of the protector 21 2 mm or less, it is possible to suppress the protector 21 from protruding excessively from the shoulder 2.

[0062] (modified version) It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments above, and further includes all modifications (exceptions) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0063] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the sides of the protector 21 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) are inclined by an angle α with respect to the tire radial direction (R direction), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, as shown in the first modified example in Figure 5, the sides of the protector 300 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) do not have to be inclined with respect to the tire radial direction (R direction). In the first modified example, the protector 300 has a first circumferential portion 301, a second circumferential portion 302, and a radial portion 303, as shown in Figure 5. Also, in the first modified example shown in Figure 5, the relative sizes of lengths W1, W2, W3, and W4 may be the same as in the embodiment shown in Figure 4. That is, length W1 > length W3 > length W2 > length W4. Also, in the first modified example shown in Figure 5, the relative sizes of lengths L1, L2, L3, and L4 may be the same as in the embodiment shown in Figure 4. That is, length L1 > length L2 > length L3. Also, length L1 > length L2 > length L4 is acceptable.

[0064] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the protector 21 includes a radial portion 213 that connects one end of a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the protector 310 may not be provided with a radial portion, as shown in the second modified example in Figure 6. In the second modified example, the protector 310 has a first circumferential portion 311 and a second circumferential portion 312, as shown in Figure 6. Also, in the second modified example shown in Figure 6, the relative sizes of lengths W1, W2, and W4 may be the same as in the embodiment shown in Figure 4. That is, length W1 > length W2 > length W4. Also, in the second modified example shown in Figure 6, the relative sizes of lengths L1, L2, and L4 may be the same as in the embodiment shown in Figure 4. That is, length L1 > length L2 > length L4.

[0065] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the protector 21 is formed such that the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the first circumferential portion 211 protrudes inward in the tire radial direction (R direction) than the portion 211b on the one end 2111 side of the first circumferential portion 211, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, as shown in the third modified example in Figure 7, the length W5 in the tire radial direction (R direction) of the first circumferential portion 321 of the protector 320 may be substantially constant. In the third modified example, as shown in Figure 7, the protector 320 has a first circumferential portion 321, a second circumferential portion 322, and a radial portion 323. Also, in the third modified example shown in Figure 7, the relationship between lengths W2, W3, and W5 may be length W3 > length W2 > length W5, similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, the length W5 of the first circumferential portion 321 in the tire radial direction and the length W2 of the second circumferential portion 322 in the tire radial direction may be equal to each other. That is, length W5 = length W2 may be equal. Also, the length L5 of the first circumferential portion 321 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) and the length L5 of the second circumferential portion 322 in the tire circumferential direction may be equal to each other.

[0066] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the protector 21 includes a radial portion 213 that connects one end of a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, as shown in the fourth modified example in Figure 8, the protector 330 may include a first radial portion 333 that connects one end of a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 331 and second circumferential portion 332) in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction), and a second radial portion 334 that connects the other end of a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 331 and second circumferential portion 332) in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction). In other words, the protector 330 may have a frame shape. In the fourth modified example, the protector 330 has a first circumferential portion 331, a second circumferential portion 332, a first radial portion 333, and a second radial portion 334, as shown in Figure 8. In the fourth modified example shown in Figure 8, the relationship between lengths W2, W3, and W5 may be the same as in the embodiment shown in Figure 4, where length W3 > length W2 > length W5. Also, the length W5 of the first circumferential portion 331 in the tire radial direction and the length W2 of the second circumferential portion 332 in the tire radial direction may be equal to each other. That is, length W5 = length W2. Also, the length L6 of the first circumferential portion 331 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) and the length L6 of the second circumferential portion 332 in the tire circumferential direction may be equal to each other. Furthermore, the length L3 of the first radial portion 333 and the second radial portion 334 in the tire radial direction (R direction) may be smaller than the length L6 of the first circumferential portion 331 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) (the length L6 of the second circumferential portion 332 in the tire circumferential direction). In other words, length L3 < length L6 may be the case.

[0067] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the protector 21 includes a radial portion 213 that connects one end of a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction), but the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, as shown in the fifth modified example in Figure 9, the protector 340 may include a radial portion 343 that connects the vicinity of the center of a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 341 and second circumferential portion 342) in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction). In other words, the protector 340 may have a substantially H shape. In the fifth modified example, as shown in Figure 9, the protector 340 has a first circumferential portion 341, a second circumferential portion 342, and a radial portion 343. Also, in the fifth modified example shown in Figure 9, the relationship between lengths W2, W5, and W6 may be length W6 > length W2 > length W5, similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, the length W5 of the first circumferential portion 341 in the tire radial direction and the length W2 of the second circumferential portion 342 in the tire radial direction may be equal to each other. That is, length W5 = length W2. Also, the length L7 of the first circumferential portion 341 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) and the length L5 of the second circumferential portion 342 in the tire circumferential direction may be equal to each other. Furthermore, the length L3 of the radial portion 343 in the tire radial direction (R direction) may be smaller than the length L7 of the first circumferential portion 341 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) (the length L7 of the second circumferential portion 342 in the tire circumferential direction). That is, length L3 < length L7.

[0068] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example where tire 100 is an all-season tire, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the tire may be a tire other than an all-season tire. For example, the tire may be a summer tire (normal tire) or a winter tire (studless tire).

[0069] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example in which the tire 100 is a pneumatic tire that supports the load by internal air pressure, the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the tire may be a tire other than a pneumatic tire. For example, the tire may be a tire that has support members such as spokes inside and supports the load by the support members.

[0070] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the protector 21 was shown as having an example configuration in which the length L1 of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction (R direction) of the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) in the tire radial direction is greater than the length L2 of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the protector may be formed so that the length of the inner first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction of the pair of circumferential portions is smaller than the length of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction. Also, the protector may be formed so that the length of the first circumferential portion and the length of the second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction are substantially the same.

[0071] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the protector 21 is formed such that the length L3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire radial direction (R direction) is smaller than the length L1 of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction (θ direction) and the length L2 of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction, among a pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212). However, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the protector may be formed such that the length of the radial portion in the tire radial direction is larger than the length of the inner first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction and the length of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction. Alternatively, the protector may be formed such that the length of the radial portion in the tire radial direction is the same as at least one of the length of the first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction and the length of the second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction.

[0072] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the protector 21 is shown as having a configuration in which the length W1 in the tire radial direction of the portion 211a on the other end 2112 side of the inner first circumferential portion 211 in the tire radial direction (R direction) is larger than the length W2 in the tire radial direction of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the protector may be formed so that the length in the tire radial direction of the portion on the other end side of the inner first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction is smaller than the length in the tire radial direction of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction. Alternatively, the protector may be formed so that the length in the tire radial direction of the portion on the other end side of the first circumferential portion is the same as the length in the tire radial direction of the second circumferential portion.

[0073] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the protector 21 is formed such that the length W3 of the radial portion 213 in the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) is greater than the length W2 of the outer second circumferential portion 212 in the tire radial direction (R direction) of the pair of circumferential portions (first circumferential portion 211 and second circumferential portion 212) in the tire radial direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the protector may be formed such that the length of the radial portion in the tire circumferential direction is smaller than the length of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction of the pair of circumferential portions. Alternatively, the protector may be formed such that the length of the radial portion in the tire circumferential direction is the same as the length of the second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction.

[0074] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which multiple protectors 21 are provided along the tire circumferential direction (θ direction) between each lug groove 22 formed in the shoulder 2. In other words, an example was shown in which one protector 21 is provided between each of the multiple lug grooves 22, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, multiple protectors may be provided in a single space sandwiched between the lug grooves. Also, protectors may be provided one or more at intermittent positions between the multiple lug grooves, rather than all of them.

[0075] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example in which the protector 21 is provided on both shoulders 2 in the tire axial direction (Z direction), the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the protector may be provided on only one shoulder in the tire axial direction.

[0076] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example in which multiple protectors 21 are provided with the same shape, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, multiple protectors with different shapes, such as alternating orientations, may be provided. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0077] 1 tread 2 Shoulder 21, 300, 310, 320, 330, 340 Protector 22 lug grooves 100 tires 211, 301, 311, 321, 331, 341 First circumferential portion (circumferential portion) 211a (the portion on the other end side of the first circumferential portion) 211b (the portion on one end side of the first circumferential portion) 212, 302, 312, 322, 332, 342 Second circumferential portion (circumferential portion) 213, 303, 323, 333, 334, 343 radial section H1 (Protector) Thickness L1 (length of the first circumferential portion in the tire's circumferential direction) L2 (length of the second circumferential portion in the tire's circumferential direction) L3 (length in the radial direction of the tire) W1 (length in the radial direction of the tire at the other end of the first circumferential portion) W2 (length of the second circumferential portion in the radial direction of the tire) W3 (length of the radial portion of the tire in the radial direction)

Claims

1. Tread and A shoulder positioned on the outside of the tread in the axial direction of the tire, A tire having a protector formed on the shoulder, which includes a pair of circumferential portions that extend in the circumferential direction of the tire and protrude in the axial direction of the tire, spaced apart from each other in the radial direction of the tire.

2. The tire according to claim 1, wherein the protector further includes a radial portion that extends in the tire radial direction and protrudes in the tire axial direction so as to connect the one ends of the pair of circumferential portions of the tire in the tire circumferential direction.

3. The tire according to claim 2, wherein the protector is formed by hook-shaped protrusions facing in the circumferential direction of the tire.

4. The tire according to claim 2, wherein the protector is formed by a substantially U-shaped protruding portion facing in the circumferential direction of the tire.

5. The tire according to claim 1, wherein the protector is formed such that the length of the first inner circumferential portion in the tire radial direction is greater than the length of the second outer circumferential portion in the tire radial direction, and the other end of the first circumferential portion protrudes further in the tire radial direction than the other end of the second circumferential portion.

6. The tire according to claim 2, wherein the protector is formed such that the length of the radial portion in the tire radial direction is smaller than the length of the inner first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction and the length of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction.

7. The tire according to claim 1, wherein the protector is formed such that the length in the tire radial direction of the portion on the other end side of the inner first circumferential portion in the tire radial direction is greater than the length in the tire radial direction of the outer second circumferential portion in the tire radial direction.

8. The tire according to claim 7, wherein the protector is formed such that the portion of the first circumferential portion on the other end side protrudes inward in the tire radial direction than the portion of the first circumferential portion on the one end side.

9. The tire according to claim 2, wherein the protector is formed such that the length of the radial portion in the tire circumferential direction is greater than the length of the second outer circumferential portion in the tire radial direction of the pair of circumferential portions in the tire radial direction.

10. The tire according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of protectors are provided along the circumferential direction of the tire between each lug groove formed on the shoulder.

11. The tire according to claim 10, wherein the protector is formed in the shoulder in a range from the contact edge of the tread to the end of the lug groove.

12. The tire according to claim 1, wherein the protector is formed to have a thickness of 0.5 mm or more and 2 mm or less that protrudes in the axial direction of the tire.

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