Support unit with film unit for tire testing stand, method for manufacturing support unit, and tire testing stand with support unit

Abstract

To enable tire testing to be performed with particularly high reliability, a support unit for a tire testing stand is provided. [Solution] The support unit (3) comprises a support unit (21) and a film unit (23). The support unit comprises an inlet portion (25) defining an inlet opening (27) and a number of outlet portions. Each outlet opening (31) is connected to the inlet opening such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows into the inlet opening, the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out from each outlet opening. The film unit comprises a number of passage portions. Each passage portion (33) defines a passage opening (35). When pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of an outlet opening, the outlet openings and the passage openings assigned to the outlet openings are arranged relative to each outlet opening such that the gaseous fluid flowing out of the outlet opening passes through the passage openings assigned to the outlet openings.

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 The present invention relates to a support unit for a tire test stand, a method for manufacturing the support unit, and a tire test stand with the support unit. 【0002】 Tire test stands are known from the prior art. These tire test stands typically comprise a frame and a tire holder. A tire with a tread can be rotatably attached to the tire holder about its axis of rotation. When the tire is rotatably attached to the tire holder, the tire can be moved to different positions relative to the frame. Tire test stands known from the prior art are provided with a rolling surface unit having a rolling surface that can be moved relative to the frame. The rolling surface of the rolling surface unit, which can also be referred to as an alternative road surface, is provided to approximately simulate the conditions on a road surface. 【0003】 Generally, it is desirable that tire tests can be carried out with particularly high reliability. 【Summary of the Invention】 【Problems to be Solved by the Invention】 【0004】 Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a support unit for a tire test stand so that tire tests can be carried out with particularly high reliability. 【Means for Solving the Problems】 【0005】 According to a first aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problems are solved by a support unit having the features described in claim 1. The support unit is designed for a tire test stand. The support unit comprises a support unit and a film unit. The support unit comprises an inlet portion defining an inlet opening and a plurality of outlet portions. Each of the plurality of outlet portions defines an outlet opening. Each outlet opening is connected to an inlet opening such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows into an inlet opening, the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out from each outlet opening. The film unit comprises a plurality of passage portions. Each of the plurality of passage portions defines a passage opening. The support unit and the film unit are arranged relative to each outlet opening such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of a corresponding outlet opening, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening passes through the passage opening assigned to the corresponding outlet opening. 【0006】 As already described, the support unit is designed for a tire test stand. Preferably, the support unit includes a fixing part that allows the support unit to be attached to a mounting part of the tire test stand. Preferably, the fixing part of the support unit can be attached to a fixing part of the frame of the tire test stand. 【0007】 Similarly, as already described, the support unit comprises a support unit and a film unit. The support unit may also be called a carrier. Preferably, the support unit comprises a fixing part to which the support unit can be attached to a fixed part of the tire test stand. Alternatively, preferably, the support unit is connected to a fixing part to which the support unit can be attached to a fixed part of the tire test stand. The film unit may also be called a film or sliding film. Preferably, the film unit comprises a surface oriented around the periphery of the support unit. The film unit can be configured particularly independently of the support unit. For example, the film unit can be tuned so that the surface of the film unit provides a low coefficient of friction with high abrasion resistance and high heat resistance, particularly when the surface of the film unit is in contact with the surface of the flat belt portion of the belt unit of the tire test stand. 【0008】 Similarly, as previously described, the support unit comprises an inlet section defining an inlet opening and a number of outlet sections. Each of the number of outlet sections defines an outlet opening. Similarly, as previously described, each outlet opening is connected to the inlet opening such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows into the inlet opening, the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out from each outlet opening. The fact that the support unit comprises an inlet section defining an inlet opening and a number of outlet sections, each of the number of outlet sections defining an outlet opening, and each outlet opening is connected to the inlet opening such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows into the inlet opening, the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out from each outlet opening, ensures that with the help of the support unit, a support section can be provided in the area of ​​the outlet openings to guide the belt unit of the tire test stand. This is because, in particular, with the help of the gaseous fluid flowing out from each outlet opening, a force can be provided acting on the flat belt section. This force acts from the support unit toward the flat belt section and toward the tire in contact with the flat belt section. 【0009】 Similarly, as already described, the support unit and film unit are arranged relative to each outlet opening such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening passes through the passage opening assigned to the corresponding outlet opening. The arrangement of the support unit and film unit relative to each outlet opening such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening passes through the passage opening assigned to the corresponding outlet opening ensures that the support unit can be positioned so that the film unit is positioned on the side of the support unit facing the flat belt portion. In this arrangement, with the help of the outlet openings, passage openings, and gaseous fluid, and with the help of the film unit, a support section for guiding the belt unit can be provided. In this case, the support unit provides two functions. For this reason, the support unit can also be referred to as a hybrid support unit or hybrid bearing unit. The first of the two functions is provided by the outlet opening, the passage opening, and the gaseous fluid. That is, in the region of the outlet opening and the passage opening, a support is provided to guide the belt unit, and with the help of the gaseous fluid flowing out from each outlet opening, a force can be provided acting on this side of the flat belt section where the support unit is located. This force acts on the flat belt section on the side opposite to this side of the flat belt section. As a result, deformation of the flat belt section in the direction of this side where the support unit is located can be reduced, and even completely prevented. If the load on the flat belt section becomes large due to different load conditions of the tire attached to the tire holder of the test stand, and the flat belt section deforms significantly and comes into contact with the support unit, a film unit is provided to prevent this contact.The film unit can be designed to contact the flat belt portion independently of the design of the support unit and has a surface designed for this contact. The second of the two functions is provided with the help of the film unit; that is, additionally, with the help of the film unit, a support portion is provided to guide the belt unit. With the help of the film unit, a surface for contact with the flat belt portion is provided, which can also be called a contact surface. As a result, an additional force can be supplied to act on the flat belt portion. This force acts in the direction relative to the flat belt portion on the side where the support unit of the flat belt portion is located. 【0010】 With the help of a pressurized gaseous fluid and a film unit, a dual-acting support unit can be provided, allowing particularly large forces to be applied to the flat belt section. As a result, with the help of the support unit, the tire test stand can be operated in a high load range, especially with wheel loads exceeding 1 ton (wheel load > 1 ton). In this case, a hydraulic support unit can be omitted. Hydraulic support units often use water to support the flat belt section. Hydraulic support units often have a metal body. In the metal body, pressurized water is discharged from the surface through numerous small holes and reaches between the belt unit, particularly the flat belt section of the tire test stand's belt unit, and its surface. This pressurized water and the resulting water film between the belt unit and the aforementioned surface support the flat belt section when it sometimes passes over the surface at high speed. In this case, the water used is frequently collected and discharged and must not reach between the belt unit and the deflection rollers of the tire test stand. This is because the necessary frictional force is reduced, and as a result, in extreme cases, the positional control of the belt unit ceases to function. If water reaches the area between the belt unit and the deflection rollers of the tire test stand even once, the belt unit can no longer transmit the traction force and lateral force (Seitenkrafte) of the tire to the deflection rollers. In addition, if water reaches the area between the belt unit and the tire (splash water, water mist), the measurements on the tire become inaccurate (because the friction between the tire and the belt unit changes). Typically, hydraulic bearings are equipped with wipers around them. These are used to remove the entire water film and splash water in a controlled manner. A further drawback is the risk of damage to the wipers from tire particles adhering to the bottom surface of the belt unit. After intensive testing, the wipers sometimes have to be replaced frequently. Therefore, the bearing unit of the present invention ensures more reliable tire testing with a simpler and less maintenance design compared to hydraulic bearings. 【0011】 Compared to opposing bearings that use air as a medium, which can also be called air bearings, the bearing according to the present invention offers superior advantages. In air bearings, high-pressure (30 bar) air is often injected between two opposing supported parts. Air bearings commonly used in industry operate non-contact. If contact occurs while moving in operation, the contact surfaces will be damaged. However, direct contact can be avoided as long as it can be assumed that the two parts can maintain their shape with sufficient precision. Contact between two pairs in conventional designs leads to high friction, which, combined with high speed, results in high frictional forces and associated high temperatures, damaging the surfaces. Under wheel loads exceeding 1 ton, and the lateral forces that can be achieved thereby, the belt unit, especially the flat belt section, undergoes relevant elastic deformation. In particular, in actual tire configurations, high pressure peaks occur under certain operating conditions. As a result, the belt unit may also deform locally and come into contact with the parts of the air bearing. In such cases, forcibly eliminating contact is no longer feasible. Therefore, there is a widespread misconception that air bearings are only usable in load ranges up to 1 ton, with specific tire types, and under very limited lateral forces. Compared to air bearings, that is, the bearing unit of the present invention, ensures that the tire test stand operates reliably even in load ranges exceeding 1 ton. 【0012】 In the bearing unit according to the present invention, contact between the bearing unit and the belt unit, particularly between the flat belt portion, can be intentionally permitted due to the film unit. In trials performed with the bearing unit according to the present invention, it was possible to demonstrate that more than 95% of the load is still supported by the pressurized gaseous fluid, even under extreme operating conditions regarding load, tire pressure, and lateral forces due to steering. In particular, damage to the bearing unit can be prevented with the help of the bearing unit according to the present invention. This is particularly advantageous compared to air bearings that are provided only with a support unit and not with a film unit. In particular, with the help of the film unit, a suitable layer can be provided on its surface that has a low coefficient of friction under high abrasion resistance and heat resistance. As a result, the remaining 5% of the load can be absorbed by these localized contacts. Therefore, all common tire types can be tested with high wheel loads. If wear occurs, replacement is easy, quick, and cost-effective. It is only the film unit, not the air bearing itself, that is subjected to wear. 【0013】 In summary, with the help of this invention, tire testing can be performed with particularly high reliability. 【0014】 In one embodiment, the support unit and the film unit are interconnected. The interconnection of the support unit and the film unit provides a particularly simple support unit that can be designed to be particularly lightweight, especially because a plate unit can be omitted. Preferably, the support unit and the film unit are interconnected by bonding the film unit to the support unit. By bonding the film unit to the support unit, the film unit can be particularly easily replaced. Preferably, the film unit has an adhesive layer on one side. The rest of the film unit is coated with this adhesive layer. In this case, the film unit can also be referred to as a film unit with one side coated with adhesive. The adhesive is a component of the film unit. Preferably, the adhesive layer is composed of adhesive. Preferably, the adhesive is a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The fact that the adhesive is a pressure-sensitive adhesive ensures that the support unit and the film unit can be particularly easily bonded to each other. Preferably, the adhesive contains silicone. 【0015】 In one embodiment, a plate unit is positioned between a support unit and a film unit, and the plate unit and film unit are interconnected. The positioning of the plate unit between the support unit and the film unit, and the interconnection of the plate unit and film unit, ensures that the plate unit can be replaced together with the film unit without the need to replace or modify the support unit. Preferably, the plate unit is connected to the support unit on a first side and to the film unit on a second side of the plate unit opposite the first side. When a new film unit is needed, the support unit and plate unit can be separated from each other, and the plate unit can be removed together with the film unit. A new plate unit, similarly connected to the film unit, can then be connected to the support unit. The positioning of the plate unit between the support unit and the film unit, and the interconnection of the plate unit and film unit, makes the replacement of the film unit significantly easier. Preferably, the plate unit and film unit are interconnected by bonding the film unit to the plate unit. By bonding the film unit to the plate unit, the film unit can be particularly easily connected to and removed from the plate unit. 【0016】 In one embodiment, the support unit has a metal or metal alloy. Having a metal or metal alloy ensures that a mechanically particularly robust support unit is provided. Preferably, the support unit is constructed from a metal or metal alloy. As a result, the support unit can be designed to be particularly mechanically robust. Preferably, the support unit is constructed from steel. As a result, the mechanical robustness of the support unit is optimally tuned. Preferably, the support unit is constructed from aluminum. As a result, the support unit is designed to be particularly lightweight. 【0017】 In one embodiment, the film unit has a fabric. The presence of a fabric ensures that the film unit can be designed to be particularly mechanically robust. Preferably, the fabric extends within the same plane on which the film unit extends. As a result, with the help of the fabric, the film unit can be designed to be particularly mechanically robust, especially within this plane. Preferably, the fabric is a glass fabric. The fact that the fabric is a glass fabric allows the film unit to be designed to be lightweight yet mechanically robust. 【0018】 In one embodiment, the film unit has a polymer. The presence of a polymer in the film unit provides a surface with a particularly low coefficient of friction. Preferably, the film unit has a fluoropolymer. The presence of a fluoropolymer in the film unit provides a particularly low coefficient of friction. Preferably, the film unit has polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The presence of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in the film unit provides a particularly low coefficient of friction. In particular, the presence of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in the film unit provides a surface for contact with the belt unit, especially with the flat belt portion. The surface has a low coefficient of friction with high abrasion resistance and high heat resistance. Preferably, the film unit has a glass fabric and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The glass fabric is covered with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The film unit comprises a glass fabric and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and the glass fabric is covered with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). With the help of the glass fabric, the film unit can be given mechanical robustness, particularly within the plane on which the film unit extends. The polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) protects the glass fabric and provides a surface for contact with the belt unit. As a result, the surface can provide a particularly low coefficient of friction with high abrasion resistance and high heat resistance. 【0019】 According to a second aspect of the present invention, the above-mentioned problems are solved by a method having the features described in claim 7. The method is for manufacturing a support unit according to a first aspect of the present invention. The method includes the following steps: providing a support unit and a film unit such that the support unit and the film unit are arranged relative to each outlet opening such that when a pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening flows through the passage openings assigned to the corresponding outlet openings. The arrangement of the support unit and the film unit such that when a pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening flows through the passage openings assigned to the corresponding outlet openings is ensured that the support unit can be positioned so that the film unit is positioned on the side of the support unit facing the flat belt portion. In this arrangement, a support portion for guiding the belt unit can be provided with the help of the outlet openings, the passage openings, and the gaseous fluid, and with the help of the film unit. In this case, the support unit provides the two functions already described. 【0020】 In one embodiment, when a pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of a corresponding outlet opening, the film unit is bonded to the support unit such that the support unit and the corresponding outlet opening are positioned relative to each outlet opening, so that the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening flows through the passage opening assigned to the corresponding outlet opening. By bonding the film unit to the support unit, it is ensured that the support unit can be manufactured particularly easily and quickly, and that the film unit can be replaced particularly easily. 【0021】 Features, technical effects, and / or advantages described in relation to the support unit according to the first aspect of the present invention also apply, at least similarly, to the method according to the second aspect of the present invention; therefore, corresponding repetitions are omitted here. The steps of the method are described in a particular order, but the present invention is not limited to this order. Rather, the individual steps of the method can be performed in any meaningful order, and in particular, they can be performed at least partially in parallel with each other in time. 【0022】 According to a third aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by a tire test stand having the features of claim 9. The tire test stand comprises a frame. In addition, the tire test stand comprises a tire holder attached to the frame, which can rotatably mount a treaded tire about its axis of rotation. In addition, the tire test stand comprises a belt unit. In addition, the tire test stand comprises two deflection rollers rotatably mounted to the frame. The deflection rollers are partially surrounded by the belt unit, so that the belt unit forms a flat belt section between the deflection rollers. When the tire is rotatably mounted to the tire holder, the tire can be moved to a contact position on the first side of the flat belt section where the tread of the tire contacts the flat belt section. When the tire and the flat belt section are in contact and the belt unit is moved relative to the tire, the tire rolls on the flat belt section. In addition, the tire test stand comprises a support unit according to a first aspect of the present invention. The support unit is positioned on the second side opposite the first side of the flat belt portion, so that the film unit is positioned on the side of the support unit facing the flat belt portion. Each deflection roller can also be called a drum. By positioning the support unit on the second side of the flat belt portion, the support unit can react to deformation of the flat belt portion in the direction of the second side, or even prevent deformation of the flat belt portion in the direction of the second side. By positioning the support unit on the second side opposite the first side of the flat belt portion, so that the film unit is positioned on the side of the support unit facing the flat belt portion, it is ensured that the film unit is in contact with the flat belt portion, and the film unit protects the support unit from contact with the flat belt portion. Thus, the film unit can be designed for contact with the flat belt portion, and when the film unit wears out, the film unit can be replaced or replaced, allowing the support unit to be used continuously. This makes it possible to provide a particularly resource-saving support unit and a particularly resource-saving tire test stand. 【0023】 In one embodiment, the belt unit is made of metal or a metal alloy. The presence of metal or a metal alloy in the belt unit ensures that it is designed to be particularly robust mechanically. Preferably, the belt unit is made of steel. This ensures that the belt unit deforms only slightly, even under different load conditions of the tire. This allows for particularly high mechanical loads to be applied to the tire with the help of a tire test stand. When the belt unit is made of steel, it may also be referred to as a steel belt. 【0024】 Features, technical effects and / or advantages described in relation to the support unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, and features, technical effects and / or advantages described in relation to the method according to the second aspect of the present invention, also apply, at least similarly, to the tire test stand according to the third aspect of the present invention, so corresponding repetitions are omitted here. 【0025】 With the help of the bearing unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the following advantages have been found to be achieved compared to hydraulic bearing units known from the prior art: With the help of the bearing unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, wipers (including conditioning, adjustment, replacement, etc.) are eliminated. With the help of the bearing unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the risk of inaccurate measurements due to splash water is avoided. With the help of the bearing unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the risk of loss of function in position control of the belt unit due to loss of friction between the belt unit and the deflection roller is avoided. With the help of the bearing unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the risk of corrosion of the bearing unit components and the components of the tire test stand are significantly reduced. With the help of the bearing unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the mixing of tire particles into the water (system contamination) is avoided. With the help of the bearing unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, there is no need to change the water used (odor pollution). With the help of the bearing unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, a pressurized water system is unnecessary. 【0026】 With the aid of the support unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, it has been found that the following advantages are achieved compared to the air support known from the prior art. With the aid of the support unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, high wheel forces and lateral forces can be reliably controlled. According to the support unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the cost of the sliding film is low. According to the support unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the replacement of the sliding film is very quick and easy, ensuring a reduction in the downtime of the system. According to the support unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, a significant reduction in the downtime of the system during damage and repair is ensured. 【0027】 Further features, advantages, and possible uses of the present invention are apparent from the following description of the embodiments and the drawings. All features described and / or illustrated are, in themselves and in any combination, and independently of their composition in the individual claims or their dependent claims, constitutive of the subject matter of the present invention. In the figures, the same reference signs continue to represent the same or similar objects. 【Brief Description of the Drawings】 【0028】 [Figure 1] It is a schematic view of an embodiment of a tire test stand according to the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic view of an embodiment of a support unit according to the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a schematic view of an embodiment of a method according to the present invention for manufacturing an embodiment of a support unit according to the present invention schematically shown in FIG. 2. 【Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention】 【0029】 FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a tire test stand 1 according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a support unit 3 according to the present invention. FIG. 3 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a method according to the present invention for manufacturing the embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention schematically shown in FIG. 2. 【0030】 The tire test stand 1 comprises a frame (not shown). In addition, the tire test stand 1 comprises a tire holder (not shown) attached to the frame. A tire 5 with a tread 7 can be mounted in the tire holder so as to be rotatable about its axis of rotation 9. In addition, the tire test stand 1 comprises a belt unit 11. In addition, the tire test stand 1 comprises two deflection rollers rotatably supported relative to the frame. Each deflection roller 13 of the deflection rollers is partially surrounded by the belt unit 11. That is, the deflection rollers are surrounded by the belt unit 11 such that the belt unit 11 forms a flat belt section 15 between the deflection rollers. When the tire 5 is rotatably mounted in the tire holder, the tire 5 is moved to a contact position where the tread 7 of the tire 5 and the flat belt section 15 are in contact at the first side 17 of the flat belt section 15, as shown in Figure 1. The tire test stand 1 comprises a belt drive unit (not shown). The belt drive unit can drive the belt unit 11 in the belt rotation direction. The belt drive unit is connected to the deflection roller 13 of the deflection roller, and drives the belt unit 11 in the belt rotation direction via the deflection roller 13. When the tire 5 and the flat belt section 15 come into contact and the belt unit 11 moves relative to the tire 5, the tire 5 rolls on the flat belt section 15. The tire test stand 1 also includes a support unit 3. The support unit 3 is positioned on the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15, opposite the first side 17. 【0031】 The tire 5 can be positioned relative to the flat belt section 15. In particular, by adjusting one or more drive elements, the tire 5 can be moved to a contact position where the tread 7 of the tire 5 contacts the flat belt section 15. Furthermore, by adjusting one or more drive elements, the tire 5 can be moved to additional contact positions where the tread 7 of the tire 5 also contacts the flat belt section 15, in addition to the aforementioned contact positions. As the tire 5 rolls on the flat belt section 15, it is subjected to different load conditions during its rolling motion. By adjusting one or more drive elements, the camber of the tire 5, the diagonal angle of the tire 5, the tire load of the tire 5, and / or the position of the tire 5 relative to the flat belt section 15 can be adjusted as the tire 5 rolls on the flat belt section 15. In addition, the tire 5 can be driven in the tire rotation direction with the help of the tire drive unit of the tire test stand 1, or braked in this tire rotation direction with the help of the tire braking unit. This exposes the tire 5 to different load conditions during its rolling motion. Under each load condition of tire 5, different reaction forces act on tire 5. These reaction forces can be detected with the help of the detection unit of tire test stand 1. Since tire 5 rolls on the flat belt section 15, it is ensured that the conditions under which tire 5 rolls on an actual road can be simulated particularly well. Under each load condition of tire 5, reaction forces are not the only forces acting on tire 5. Rather, under different load conditions, forces also act on the belt unit 11, particularly the flat belt section 15. These forces can, for example, deform the flat belt section 15 in the direction of the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15. The support unit 3 is positioned on the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15. This allows the support unit 3 to react to the deformation of the flat belt section 15 in the direction of the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15, or even to prevent the deformation of the flat belt section 15 in the direction of the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15. 【0032】 The support unit 3 is designed for the tire test stand 1. The support unit 3 has a fixing part that allows it to be attached to the mounting part of the tire test stand 1. In the embodiment of the tire test stand 1 shown in Figure 1, the fixing part of the support unit 3 can be attached to the fixing part of the frame of the tire test stand 1. 【0033】 The support unit 3 comprises a support unit 21 and a film unit 23. The support unit 21 comprises an inlet 25 and a number of outlets. The inlet 25 defines an inlet opening 27. Each of the number of outlets 29 defines an outlet opening 31. In the embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention schematically shown in Figure 2, 130 outlets and 130 outlet openings are schematically shown as an example. Each outlet opening 31 is connected to the inlet opening 27 such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows into the inlet opening 27, the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out from each outlet opening 31. By connecting each outlet opening 31 to the inlet opening 27 such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows into the inlet opening 27, the support unit 3 can provide a support portion to guide the belt unit 11 in the area of ​​the outlet openings. In particular, this is because, with the help of the gaseous fluid flowing out from each outlet opening 31, a force can be supplied to the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15, and this force acts in the direction of the first side 17 of the flat belt section 15. The support unit 21 is provided with channels that connect the inlet opening 27 and the outlet openings to each other. Therefore, pressurized fluid can flow into the inlet opening 27 and out from each outlet opening 31. The tire test stand 1 is equipped with a compressor unit that can supply pressurized gaseous fluid and is connectable to the inlet opening 27. The tire test stand 1 is equipped with a compressor unit that supplies air as the gaseous fluid. Therefore, the tire test stand 1 can be designed in a particularly simple manner. That is, with the help of the support unit 3, an air support section can be provided in the area of ​​the outlet opening to guide the belt unit 11. The support unit 3 is different from air support sections known from the prior art. This point will be explained in more detail below. 【0034】 The film unit 23 is provided with a number of passages. Each of the number of passages 33 defines a passage opening 35. In the embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention schematically shown in Figure 2, 130 passages and 130 passage openings are schematically shown as an example. The support unit 21 and the film unit 23 are arranged relative to each outlet opening 31 such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening 31, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening 31 flows through the passage opening 35 assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31. When pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening 31, the support unit 21 and the film unit 23 are arranged relative to each outlet opening 31 such that the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening 31 passes through the passage opening 35 assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31, thus ensuring that the support unit 3 can be positioned so that the film unit 23 is positioned on the side of the support unit 21 facing the flat belt portion 15. In this arrangement, with the help of the outlet openings, passage openings, and gaseous fluid, and with the help of the film unit 23, a support section for guiding the belt unit 11 can be provided. In this case, the support unit 3 provides two functions. For this reason, the support unit 3 can also be referred to as a hybrid support unit or hybrid bearing unit. The first of the two functions is provided by the outlet openings, passage openings, and gaseous fluid. In other words, in the areas of the outlet opening and the passage opening, support members are provided to guide the belt unit 11, and with the help of the gaseous fluid flowing out from each outlet opening 31, a force can be provided on the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15 acting in the direction of the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15. This force acts in the direction of the first side 17 of the flat belt section 15. As a result, deformation of the flat belt section 15 in the direction of the second side 19 of the flat belt section 15 is reduced, and even completely prevented.If the load on the flat belt portion 15 increases due to different load conditions of the tire 5, causing the flat belt portion 15 to deform significantly and come into contact with the support unit 3, a film unit 23 is provided to prevent this contact. The film unit 23 can be designed to contact the flat belt portion 15 independently of the design of the support unit 21. The second of the two functions is provided with the help of the film unit 23. Specifically, the film unit 23 additionally provides a support portion that guides the belt unit 11. The film unit 23 provides a contact surface for contact with the flat belt portion 15. As a result, an additional force can be supplied to act on the second side 19 of the flat belt portion 15. This force acts in the direction of the first side 17 of the flat belt portion 15. 【0035】 In the embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention schematically shown in Figure 2, the support unit 21 and the film unit 23 are interconnected. The interconnection of the support unit 21 and the film unit 23 provides a particularly simple design of the support unit 3, which can be made particularly lightweight, as a plate unit can be omitted. As already described, the support unit 21 and the film unit 23 are interconnected. In the embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention schematically shown in Figure 2, this is ensured by bonding the film unit 23 onto the support unit 21. By bonding the film unit 23 onto the support unit 21, the film unit 23 can be replaced particularly easily. 【0036】 In an alternative embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention, a plate unit is positioned between the support unit 21 and the film unit 23. The plate unit and the film unit 23 are interconnected. The positioning of the plate unit between the support unit 21 and the film unit 23, and the interconnection of the plate unit and the film unit 23, ensures that the plate unit can be replaced together with the film unit 23 without the need to replace or modify the support unit 21. In an alternative embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention, the plate unit is connected to the support unit 21 on a first side of the plate unit, and to the film unit 23 on a second side of the plate unit opposite the first side. When the film unit 23 needs to be replaced, the support unit 21 and the plate unit can be separated from each other, and the plate unit can be removed together with the film unit 23. A new plate unit, similarly connected to the film unit 23, can then be connected to the support unit 21. The positioning of the plate unit between the support unit 21 and the film unit 23, and the interconnection of the plate unit and the film unit 23, makes the replacement of the film unit 23 significantly easier. As already described, the plate unit and the film unit 23 are interconnected. In an alternative embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention, this is ensured by bonding the film unit 23 to the plate unit. By bonding the film unit 23 to the plate unit, the film unit 23 can be connected to and removed from the plate unit particularly easily. 【0037】 Similar to the film unit 23, the plate unit also has a number of passages. Each passage defines a passage opening. For example, 130 passages and 130 passage openings can be provided. The support unit 21, the film unit 23, and the plate unit are arranged relative to each outlet opening 31 such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening 31, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening 31 first flows through the passage opening of the corresponding passage of the plate unit assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31, and then through the passage opening 35 of the corresponding passage of the film unit 23 assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31. The support unit 21, the film unit 23, and the plate unit are arranged relative to each outlet opening 31 such that, when the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening 31, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening 31 first flows through the passage opening of the corresponding passage section of the plate unit assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31, and then through the passage opening 35 of the corresponding passage section 33 of the film unit 23 assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31. This ensures that the support unit 3, capable of mounting the plate unit, can be positioned so that the film unit 23 can be positioned on the side of the support unit 21 facing the flat belt section 15. In this arrangement, with the help of the outlet opening, the passage opening, and the gaseous fluid, as well as the film unit 23, a support section for guiding the belt unit 11 can be provided. In this case, the support unit 3 provides the two functions already described, while also making the film unit 23 particularly easy to replace.In an alternative embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the invention, each outlet opening 31 is provided with a corresponding passage opening 35 of the corresponding passage portion 33 of the film unit 23 and a corresponding passage opening of the corresponding passage portion of the plate unit. 【0038】 In the embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention schematically shown in Figure 2, the support unit 21 is made of a metal alloy, i.e., steel. The fact that the support unit 21 is made of a metal alloy provides a mechanically particularly robust support unit 22. The fact that the support unit 21 is made of steel allows for optimal tuning of the mechanical robustness of the support unit 21. In an alternative embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention, the support unit 21 is made of a metal, i.e., aluminum. The fact that the support unit 21 is made of aluminum allows for a particularly lightweight design of the support unit 21. 【0039】 In the embodiment of the bearing unit 3 according to the present invention, schematically shown in Figure 2, the film unit 23 is composed of a fabric, i.e., a glass fabric, and a polymer, i.e., a fluoropolymer in the form of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Because the film unit 23 is composed of a fabric, i.e., a glass fabric, and a polymer, i.e., a fluoropolymer in the form of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the film unit 23 provides a surface for contact with the belt unit 11, particularly with the flat belt portion 15. This surface has a low coefficient of friction with high abrasion resistance and high heat resistance. Since the glass fabric portion is covered with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the glass fabric provides mechanical robustness to the film unit 23, particularly in the plane over which the film unit 23 extends. The polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) protects the glass fabric and provides a surface for contact with the belt unit 11. As a result, this surface can provide a particularly low coefficient of friction with high abrasion resistance and high heat resistance. 【0040】 The support unit 3 is positioned on the second side 19 opposite the first side 17 of the flat belt portion 15, so that the film unit 23 is positioned on the side of the support unit 21 facing the flat belt portion 15. By positioning the support unit 3 on the second side 19 opposite the first side 17 of the flat belt portion 15, so that the film unit 23 is positioned on the side of the support unit 21 facing the flat belt portion 15, it is ensured that the film unit 23 makes contact with the flat belt portion 15, and the film unit 23 protects the support unit 21 from contact with the flat belt portion 15. In other words, the film unit 23 can be designed for contact with the flat belt portion 15, and when the film unit 23 wears out, the film unit 23 can be replaced or replaced, allowing the support unit 21 to continue to be used. This makes it possible to provide a particularly resource-saving support unit 3 and a particularly resource-saving tire test stand 1. 【0041】 The belt unit 11 is made of a metal alloy, namely steel, and can also be called a steel belt. In particular, the belt unit 11 is made of steel. Because the belt unit 11 is made of steel, it is ensured that the belt unit 11 deforms only slightly, even under different load conditions of the tire 5. Therefore, with the help of the tire test stand 1, particularly high mechanical loads can be applied to the tire 5. 【0042】 When no load is applied to the flat belt portion 15 by the tire 5, the flat belt portion 15 extends along the first surface. Even when the tire 5 applies a slight load to the flat belt portion 15, the flat belt portion 15 extends along the first surface. As the load on the first belt portion 15 by the tire 5 increases further, the first belt portion 15 deforms in the direction of the second side 19 of the flat belt portion 15. As already described, the support unit 3 reacts to this deformation, thereby preventing this type of deformation or at least reducing it compared to a situation where the support unit 3 is not provided. The film unit 23 extends along a second surface parallel to the first surface in the installed state where the support unit 3 is installed on the test stand 1. By extending the film unit 23 along the second surface, the film unit 23 provides a particularly flat surface for contact with the flat belt portion 15. As a result, the flat belt portion 15 can react to particularly large deformation in the direction of the support unit 3 with the help of the surface of the film unit 23. This contact between the flat surface and the flat belt portion 15 significantly reduces the mechanical load on the belt portion 15. If a plate unit is provided, the plate unit extends along a third surface parallel to the second surface. The extension of the plate unit along a third surface parallel to the second surface ensures that the plate unit constitutes a mechanically robust portion. The film unit 23 is connected to the robust portion, and when the film unit 23 comes into contact with the flat belt portion 15, the force acting on the film unit 23 through this contact can be transmitted to the robust portion. The support unit 21 extends parallel to a fourth surface. The fourth surface extends parallel to the third surface and parallel to the second surface. The extension of the support unit 21 along a fourth surface that is parallel to the third surface and also parallel to the second surface ensures that the support unit 21 constitutes a mechanically robust portion. The film unit 23 is connected to a robust portion, and when the film unit 23 comes into contact with the flat belt portion 15, the force acting on the film unit 23 through this contact can be transmitted to the robust portion.If a plate unit is provided, the support unit 21 constitutes a mechanically robust part to which the plate unit is connected, and when the film unit 23 comes into contact with the flat belt portion 15, the force acting on the plate unit through this contact can be transmitted to the robust part. 【0043】 As previously described, in the embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention schematically shown in Figure 2, 130 outlets, 130 outlet openings, 130 passages, and 130 passage openings are schematically shown as an example. The present invention is not limited to these particular numbers. Rather, the concept of the present invention includes other numbers. For clarity, in Figure 2, enlarged views of each outlet 29, each outlet opening 31, each passage 33, and each passage opening 35 are shown by dashed lines. Here, the outlets 29, outlet openings 31, passages 33, and passage openings 35 are shown. In Figure 2, the two dashed lines placed between the support unit 3 and the enlarged views indicate the positions of the exemplary parts in the support unit 3. 【0044】 As previously described, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present invention for manufacturing an embodiment of the support unit 3 according to the present invention schematically shown in Figure 2. In the first step 101 of the method, a support unit 21 is provided. In the second step 102 of the method, a passage opening is formed in the film unit 23. In the third step 103 of the method, the film unit 23 is bonded onto the support unit 21. By bonding the film unit 23 onto the support unit 21, the support unit 3 can be manufactured particularly easily and quickly, and the film unit 23 can also be replaced particularly easily. 【0045】 In the third step 103 of the method, when the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening 31, the film unit 23 is bonded to the support unit 21 such that the corresponding outlet opening 31 and the corresponding passage opening 35 assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31 are arranged relative to each outlet opening 31, so that the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening 31 flows through the passage opening 35 assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31. 【0046】 Therefore, the support unit 3 can be manufactured with the help of this method. In this method, the support unit 21 and the film unit 23 are provided to be positioned relative to each outlet opening 31 such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening 31, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening 31 flows through the passage opening 35 assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31. The support unit 21 and the film unit 23 are positioned relative to each outlet opening 31 such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening 31, the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening 31 flows through the passage opening 35 assigned to the corresponding outlet opening 31. This arrangement ensures that the support unit 3 can be positioned so that the film unit 23 is positioned on the side of the support unit 21 facing the flat belt portion 15. In this configuration, with the help of the outlet opening, the passage opening, and the gaseous fluid, as well as the film unit 23, a support can be provided to guide the belt unit 11. In this case, the support unit 3 provides the two functions already described. 【0047】 Although the steps of the method are described in a specific order, the present invention is not limited to this order. Rather, the individual steps of the method can be performed in any meaningful order, and in particular, they can be performed at least partially in parallel with each other in time. 【0048】 To clarify, the terms “equipped with / possess / include” (aufweisend) do not exclude other elements or steps. The terms “one” (ein / eine) do not exclude multiple. Furthermore, it should be noted that features described with reference to any of the above embodiments can be used in combination with other features of the other embodiments described above. Reference numbers in the claims should not be construed as limitations. [Explanation of Symbols] 【0049】 1. Tire testing stand 2. Support Unit 5 tires 7 Tread 9 Rotation axis 11 Belt Unit 13 Deflection rollers 15 Flat belt section 17 First side of the flat belt section 19 Second side of the flat belt section 21 Support Unit 23 film units 25 Entrance 27 Inlet opening 29 Exit section 31 Exit opening 33 Passage section 35 Passage opening in the passage section of the film unit Step 1 of Method 101 Step 2 of Method 102 Step 3 of Method 103

Claims

[Claim 1] A support unit (3) for a tire test stand (1), The support unit (3) comprises a support unit (21) and a film unit (23), The support unit (21) comprises an inlet portion (25) defining an inlet opening (27) and a number of outlet portions, each of the number of outlet portions (29) defining an outlet opening (31), and each outlet opening (31) is connected to the inlet opening (27) such that when pressurized gaseous fluid flows into the inlet opening (27), the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out from each outlet opening (31). The film unit (23) is provided with a number of passages, and each of the number of passages (33) defines a passage opening (35), A support unit (3) in which the support unit (21) and the film unit (23) are arranged relative to each outlet opening (31) such that when the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out from the corresponding outlet opening (31), the gaseous fluid flowing out from the corresponding outlet opening (31) flows through the passage opening (35) assigned to the corresponding outlet opening (31). [Claim 2] A support unit (3) according to claim 1, wherein the support unit (21) and the film unit (23) are connected to each other. [Claim 3] A support unit (3) according to claim 1, wherein a plate unit is disposed between the support unit (21) and the film unit (23), and the plate unit and the film unit (23) are connected to each other. [Claim 4] A support unit (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the support unit (21) is made of metal or a metal alloy. [Claim 5] A support unit (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the film unit (23) has a woven fabric. [Claim 6] A support unit (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the film unit (23) has a polymer. [Claim 7] A method for manufacturing a support unit (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising the step of providing the support unit (21) and the film unit (23) such that when a pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening (31), the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening (31) flows through the passage opening (35) assigned to the corresponding outlet opening (31) so that the support unit (21) and the film unit (23) are arranged relative to each outlet opening (31). [Claim 8] A method according to claim 7, wherein when the pressurized gaseous fluid flows out of the corresponding outlet opening (31), the film unit (23) is bonded to the support unit (21) such that the support unit (23) and the film unit (23) are arranged relative to each outlet opening (31) so that the gaseous fluid flowing out of the corresponding outlet opening (31) flows through the passage opening (35) assigned to the corresponding outlet opening (31). [Claim 9] A tire testing stand (1), Frame and, A tire holder attached to the frame, the tire holder being capable of rotatably mounting a tire (5) with a tread (7) around its axis of rotation (9), Belt unit (11) and Two deflection rollers rotatably mounted to the frame, wherein the deflection rollers are partially surrounded by the belt unit (11), and as a result, the belt unit (11) comprises a flat belt section (15) between the deflection rollers. When the tire (5) is rotatably mounted on the tire holder, the tire (5) can be moved to a contact position on the first side (17) of the flat belt portion (15) where the tread (7) of the tire (5) and the flat belt portion (15) come into contact. When the tire (5) and the flat belt portion (15) come into contact, and the belt unit (11) moves relative to the tire (5), the tire (5) rolls on the flat belt portion (15). The tire test stand (1) comprises a support unit (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the support unit (3) is positioned on the second side (19) of the flat belt portion (15) opposite the first side (17) of the flat belt portion (15) such that the film unit (23) is positioned on the side of the support unit (21) facing the flat belt portion (15). [Claim 10] A tire testing stand (1) according to claim 9, wherein the belt unit (11) is made of metal or a metal alloy.

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