Tires with irregular locking reinforcement structure

Abstract

The tire (10) comprises a crown (12), a sidewall, a bead, and first reinforcing elements (54A), each of which extends from a first radially inward locking point in the first sidewall and / or bead and is arranged in a first group (60A), each of which is circumferentially separated by two first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A). The first radially inward locking points of the first reinforcing elements (54A) in each first group (60A) are circumferentially distributed at a first constant angular pitch. The angular pitch separating two adjacent first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) is different from the first constant angular pitch.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention particularly relates to tires for passenger cars. A tire means a casing suitable for forming a cavity in cooperation with a mounting support such as a rim, and this cavity can be pressurized to a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure. The tire has a substantially toroidal shape structure showing rotational symmetry around the main axis of the tire. This main axis coincides with the rotation axis of the tire.

Background Art

[0002] Tires that can be mounted on passenger cars are known from the prior art and are described in International Publication No. 2020 / 128225 and International Publication No. 2022 / 200717. The described tires include a crown extending radially inward by first and second sidewalls on both sides of the central plane of the tire and then by first and second beads suitable for contacting a mounting support such as a rim.

[0003] The tire has an inner surface that defines an annular cavity for inflating the tire after it is mounted on a mounting support.

[0004] The tire comprises a reinforcing structure including a first reinforcing element continuously extending within the annular cavity from the first bead to the crown and a second reinforcing element continuously extending within the annular cavity from the second bead to the crown.

[0005] Each of the first and second reinforcing elements is rigidly bonded to each bead and the crown of the tire.

[0006] International Publication No. 2022 / 200717 also describes a tool and method for manufacturing such a tire. The tool includes a core, which comprises a subassembly divided into a section called the "key" and a section called the "arch segment." The inventors have observed that when a tire is manufactured using the key and arch segment of the tool, acoustic characteristics specific to that method are produced. More generally, each manufacturing method, whether or not the tool described in International Publication No. 2022 / 200717 is used, will produce acoustic characteristics specific to that method, which are desirable to reduce, regardless of the method and the tool used in that method. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2020 / 128225 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2022 / 200717 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] The present invention aims to reduce the acoustic characteristics specific to tire manufacturing methods. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A first object of the present invention relates to a tire comprising a crown, first and second sidewalls each extending radially inward from the crown, and first and second beads each extending radially inward from the first and second sidewalls, wherein the tire comprises an inner surface defining an annular cavity for inflating the tire, and the tire comprises a reinforcing structure comprising a plurality of first reinforcing elements, each reinforcing element extending continuously into the annular cavity from at least a first radially inward locking point of the first sidewall and / or bead to at least the crown.

[0010] The first reinforcing element is arranged in a first group of first reinforcing elements that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the tire. Each first group is circumferentially separated by two first end reinforcing elements.

[0011] The first radially inward locking points of the first reinforcing element of each first group are distributed circumferentially at a first constant inward angular pitch.

[0012] The first internal angular pitch separating the first radially internal locking point of each first end reinforcing element in one of the first groups from the first radially internal locking point of a first end reinforcing element in another first group adjacent to the said first end reinforcing element is different from the first constant internal angular pitch.

[0013] A second object of the present invention relates to a tire comprising a crown, first and second sidewalls each extending radially inward from the crown, and first and second beads each extending radially inward from the first and second sidewalls, wherein the tire comprises an inner surface defining an annular cavity for inflating the tire, and the tire comprises a reinforcing structure comprising a plurality of first reinforcing elements, each reinforcing element extending continuously into the annular cavity from at least the first sidewall and / or bead to at least a first radially outward locking point to the crown.

[0014] The first reinforcing element is arranged in a first group of first reinforcing elements that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the tire. Each first group is separated in the circumferential direction by two first end reinforcing elements.

[0015] The first radially outward locking points of the first reinforcing element of each first group are distributed circumferentially at a first constant outward angular pitch.

[0016] The first outer angular pitch separating the first radially outer locking point of one first end reinforcing element of the first group from the first radially outer locking point of another first end reinforcing element of the first group adjacent to the said first end reinforcing element is different from the first constant outer angular pitch.

[0017] As described later, the present invention functions when applied to one side of a tire, in this case the side including at least the first sidewall and / or bead. Preferred embodiments also disclose the application of the invention to both sides of the tire, but this is not essential for carrying out the invention. In this application, unless otherwise clearly interpreted, the use of the modifier “first” is intended to relate the element described as “first” to the first sidewall and / or bead. Similarly, unless otherwise clearly interpreted, the use of the modifier “second” is intended to relate the element described as “second” to the second sidewall and / or bead.

[0018] "A reinforcing element is circumferentially adjacent to another reinforcing element" means that the reinforcing element is the closest reinforcing element in the circumferential direction when moving counterclockwise or clockwise from another reinforcing element. Therefore, each reinforcing element is adjacent to two other reinforcing elements.

[0019] Angular pitch refers to the angle that separates two radial planes that pass through and are parallel to the tire's axis of rotation and also pass through the engagement point.

[0020] The inventors of this invention have found that the acoustic properties of this method reflect the presence of localized non-circular defects in the tire. By locally changing the arrangement of reinforcing elements at their radially inner and / or outer locking points, the forces exerted by the reinforcing structure on the rest of the tire are locally altered. Thus, non-circular defects in the tire can be corrected at their location, and the acoustic properties specific to the tire manufacturing method can be reduced.

[0021] In one preferred embodiment of two objects of the present invention, the reinforcing structure functions on both sides of the central plane of the tire, the reinforcing structure includes a plurality of second reinforcing elements, and each of the second reinforcing elements extends continuously in an annular cavity from at least a second radially inner locking point of at least the second sidewall and / or the bead to at least the crown.

[0022] The second reinforcing elements are arranged in a second group of second reinforcing elements adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the tire. Each second group is delimited in the circumferential direction by two second end reinforcing elements.

[0023] The second radially inner locking points of the second reinforcing elements of each second group are circumferentially distributed at a second constant inner angular pitch.

[0024] The second inner angular pitch separating the second radially inner locking point of one of the second end reinforcing elements of the second group from the second radially inner locking point of the second end reinforcing element of the second group adjacent to the second end reinforcing element is different from the second constant inner angular pitch.

[0025] In one preferred embodiment of two objects of the present invention, the reinforcing structure functions on both sides of the central plane of the tire, the reinforcing structure includes a plurality of second reinforcing elements, and each of the second reinforcing elements extends continuously in an annular cavity from at least the second sidewall and / or the bead to at least a second radially outer locking point up to the crown.

[0026] The second reinforcing elements are arranged in a second group of second reinforcing elements adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the tire. Each second group is delimited in the circumferential direction by two second end reinforcing elements.

[0027] The second radially outer locking points of the second reinforcing elements of each second group are circumferentially distributed at a second constant outer angular pitch.

[0028] The second outer angular pitch separating the second radially outer locking point of one second end reinforcing element of the second group from the second radially outer locking point of the second end reinforcing element of the second group adjacent to that second end reinforcing element is different from the second constant outer angular pitch.

[0029] In some modifications of the first and second objectives, the inner or outer angular pitch separating the radially inner or outer locking point of each end reinforcing element in one group from the radially inner or outer locking point of an end reinforcing element in another group adjacent to that end reinforcing element is strictly greater than a constant inner or outer angular pitch.

[0030] In other modifications of the first and second objectives, the inner or outer angular pitch separating the radially inner or outer locking point of each end reinforcing element in one group from the radially inner or outer locking point of an end reinforcing element in another group adjacent to that end reinforcing element is strictly less than a constant inner or outer angular pitch.

[0031] In yet another variation of the first and second objectives, the inner or outer angular pitch separating one radially inner or outer locking point of one end reinforcing element of one group from the radially inner or outer locking point of an end reinforcing element of another group adjacent to that end reinforcing element is strictly greater than a constant inner or outer angular pitch, and The radially inward or outward angular pitch separating the radially inward or outward locking points of other end reinforcing elements in the group from the radially inward or outward locking points of yet another group of end reinforcing elements adjacent to the other end reinforcing elements is strictly smaller than a constant radially inward or outward angular pitch.

[0032] In some variations of the first and second objectives, the internal or external angular pitch separating one radially internal or external locking point of one end reinforcing element of one group from a radially internal or external locking point of an end reinforcing element of another group adjacent to that end reinforcing element is equal to the internal or external angular pitch separating the radially internal or external locking point of another end reinforcing element of another group adjacent to that other end reinforcing element.

[0033] In other modifications for the first and second purposes, the inner or outer angular pitch separating one radially inner or outer locking point of one end reinforcing element of one group from a radially inner or outer locking point of an end reinforcing element of another group adjacent to that end reinforcing element is, for example, larger than the inner or outer angular pitch separating the radially inner or outer locking point of another end reinforcing element of another group adjacent to that other end reinforcing element.

[0034] An annular expansion cavity is suitable for pressurizing a tire with an expansion gas after it has been mounted to a mounting support (usually a rim).

[0035] Among other advantages, the reinforcing structure makes it possible to simultaneously improve the radial stiffness, axial stiffness, and cornering stiffness of the tire compared to conventional tires without reinforcing structures, and also compared to tires with other reinforcing structures, such as those described in International Publication No. 2017 / 005713.

[0036] This reinforcing structure increases radial rigidity, thereby limiting the radial deformation of the crown during driving, particularly camber, which is the radial deformation of the tread surface opposite the contact patch with the road surface. As the tire rolls, with each rotation, the reinforcing structure limits the amplitude of the periodic deformation of the tire, especially the tread, thus limiting the resulting energy dissipation, which contributes to a reduction in rolling resistance. In addition, since the contact area with the ground does not change even under radial stress, it is possible to maintain grip performance equivalent to that of the tire described in International Publication No. 2017 / 005713.

[0037] By increasing axial and cornering rigidity, the reinforced structure contributes to improving behavior under lateral stress, such as during cornering. In addition, under lateral stress, the contact area with the ground ensures a more uniform distribution of contact pressure, which enables improved lateral grip.

[0038] Furthermore, the reinforcing structure contributes, at least partially, to supporting the load applied to the tire, which is jointly absorbed by the tire due to its aerodynamic and intrinsic structural stiffness, and by the reinforcing structure. When the tire is subjected to a nominal radial load, a portion of the reinforcing structure located on the opposite side of the contact patch is subjected to tension. Conversely, in some embodiments, a portion of the reinforcing structure located along the contact patch is subjected to buckling due to compression.

[0039] Thus, the presence of a reinforcing structure reduces the contribution of the tire to the load, and therefore, the structural rigidity of the tire can be reduced, for example, by reducing the volume of the bead. Conventional tire beads consume considerable energy due to their volume and the hysteresis properties of the elastomer compound on which the bead is formed. By reducing the volume of the bead, rolling resistance can be significantly reduced.

[0040] The tire of the present invention has a substantially annular shape around an axis of rotation that substantially coincides with the tire's axis of rotation. This axis of rotation defines three directions commonly used by those skilled in the art: axial, circumferential, and radial.

[0041] The axial direction refers to the direction substantially parallel to the tire's pivot axis, or the tire's rotation axis.

[0042] The circumferential direction refers to the direction substantially perpendicular to both the axial direction and the tire's radius (i.e., the direction tangent to the circle centered on the tire's axis of rotation).

[0043] The radial direction refers to any direction along the radius of the tire, that is, any direction that intersects the tire's axis of rotation and is substantially perpendicular to that axis.

[0044] The tire's center plane (M) refers to a plane located midway between the two beads in the axial direction, passing through the axial center of the crown reinforcement, and perpendicular to the tire's axis of rotation.

[0045] The tire's equatorial circumferential plane (E) refers to the plane in the meridional section that passes through the tire's equator, perpendicular to the central plane and the radial direction. The tire's equator refers to the axis in the meridional section (a plane perpendicular to the circumferential direction and parallel to the radial and axial directions) that is parallel to the tire's axis of rotation and equidistant from the outermost radial point of the tire intended to be in contact with the ground and the innermost radial point of the tire intended to be in contact with the support (e.g., the rim).

[0046] The meridional plane is a plane that is parallel to and includes the axis of rotation of a tire, and is perpendicular to the circumferential direction.

[0047] Radially inward / internal and radially outward / external refer to the area closer to and further from the tire's axis of rotation, respectively. Axial inward / internal and axial outward / external refer to the area closer to and further from the tire's center plane, respectively.

[0048] The bead refers to the radial portion of a tire that allows it to be mounted to a mounting support (e.g., a wheel with a rim). Therefore, each bead is particularly suited to contacting the flange of the rim to allow the tire to be mounted. Thus, the bead is defined radially inward by the radially inner edge of the tire, and radially outward by an axial line passing through the outermost radial point of the tire that contacts the standard rim according to the European Tire and Rim Technology Organization (ETRTO) standard 2023.

[0049] The sidewall refers to the radial portion of the tire that connects the bead to the crown. The sidewall is defined radially outward by the edge of the tread. The axial edge of the tread is determined on a tire mounted on a nominal rim and inflated to nominal pressure, in accordance with ETRTO Standard Manual 2023. The edge is located on both sides of the tire's central plane and is formed by lines substantially parallel to the circumferential direction of the tire. If there is a clear boundary between the tire's tread and sidewall, determining the edge is straightforward. If the tread is continuous with the sidewall, the edge is usually determined by loading the tire to 80% of its load capacity, in accordance with ETRTO Standard Manual 2023, and the edge is identified as the axial boundary of the tread in contact with the ground. Radially inward, the sidewall is defined by an axial line passing through the outermost radial point in contact with the standard rim, in accordance with European Tire and Rim Technology Organization (ETRTO) Standard 2023.

[0050] The range of values ​​expressed as "between a and b" represents a range of values ​​that extends from greater than a to less than b (i.e., excluding the endpoints a and b), whereas the range of values ​​expressed as "from a to b" means a range of values ​​that extends from a to b (i.e., strictly including the endpoints a and b).

[0051] The tire of the present invention is suitable for passenger cars as defined in accordance with the European Tire and Rim Technology Organization (ETRTO) standard 2023. Such a tire has a meridional cross section characterized by a cross section height H and a nominal cross section width SW in accordance with the ETRTO standard 2023. The values ​​of SW and H are indicated by markings on the tire's sidewall, for example, as defined in the ETRTO standard manual 2023.

[0052] Preferably, a passenger car tire to which the present invention is advantageously applied has an H / S ratio (expressed as a percentage) of at most 90 and at least 20, and a nominal section width SW of at least 115 mm and at most 385 mm. Furthermore, the diameter D of the rim flange defining the diameter of the tire mounting rim is at least 12 inches and at most 30 inches.

[0053] Conventionally, in tires having crown reinforcement and carcass reinforcement, the crown comprises a tread that contacts the road surface and a crown reinforcement positioned radially inward of the tread. The carcass reinforcement is anchored to each bead and extends radially within each sidewall and axially within the crown, radially inward of the crown reinforcement. In conventional methods, the crown reinforcement comprises at least one crown layer containing reinforcing elements. These reinforcing elements are preferably fibrous or metal filament elements.

[0054] In an embodiment capable of achieving the performance of a tire known as a radial tire as defined by ETRTO, the carcass reinforcement comprises at least one carcass layer, the carcass layer comprising carcass filamentary reinforcing elements, each carcass filamentary reinforcing element substantially extending in a principal direction that forms an angle in the range of 80 to 90 degrees in absolute value with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire. By modification, the angle can be a variable angle, ranging from 80 to 90 degrees in at least a portion of the sidewall and strictly less than 80 degrees in at least a portion of the crown.

[0055] In one advantageous embodiment, the reinforcing structure is not sealed to the tire's expansion gases. Therefore, the reinforcing structure allows the expansion gases to pass through. In other words, the reinforcing structure does not define the tire's pressurized secondary cavity. "Not sealed" means that the reinforcing structure is permeable to the expansion gases, thereby ensuring that the pressure within the annular cavity is always uniform, in detail, when the tire is inflated.

[0056] Optionally, each first reinforcing element of the first group extends in a principal direction that forms an angle of inclination with respect to the radial direction of the tire, and at least two first reinforcing elements of the first group extend at different angles of inclination.

[0057] In one modification, each second reinforcing element of the second group extends in a principal direction that forms an angle of inclination with respect to the radial direction of the tire, and at least two of the second reinforcing elements of the second group extend at different angles of inclination.

[0058] In one preferred embodiment in which the reinforcing structure can continuously change the force exerted on the rest of the tire, each first reinforcing element of the first group extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire, - The inclination angle decreases as it proceeds circumferentially from one of the two first end reinforcing elements of the first group toward the first intermediate reinforcing element of the first group, which is located between the two first end reinforcing elements of the first group. - The inclination angle increases as it proceeds circumferentially from the first intermediate reinforcing element located between the two first end reinforcing elements of the first group toward the other of the two first end reinforcing elements of the first group. It is designed that way.

[0059] Furthermore, in one modified example in which the reinforcing structure allows for a continuous variation of the force exerted on the rest of the tire, each second reinforcing element of the second group extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire, - The inclination angle decreases as it proceeds circumferentially from one of the two second end reinforcing elements of the second group toward the second intermediate reinforcing element of the second group, which is located between the two second end reinforcing elements of the second group. - The inclination angle increases as it proceeds circumferentially from the second intermediate reinforcing element of the second group, which is located between the two second end reinforcing elements of the second group, toward the other of the two second end reinforcing elements of the second group. It is designed that way.

[0060] Optionally, each first reinforcing element is locked to the crown from a first radially outward locking point, and the first radially outward locking points of the first reinforcing elements of each first group are distributed circumferentially at a first constant outward angular pitch.

[0061] In one variation, each second reinforcing element is locked to the crown from a second radially outward locking point, and the second radially outward locking points of the second reinforcing elements of each second group are circumferentially distributed at a second constant outward angular pitch.

[0062] Optionally, in a manner inconsistent with the second objective of the present invention, all of the first radially outward locking points of the first reinforcing element are circumferentially distributed at a first constant outward angular pitch.

[0063] In one modification not suitable for the second object of the present invention, all of the second radially outward locking points of the second reinforcing element are circumferentially distributed at a second constant outward angular pitch.

[0064] Optionally, each first reinforcing element is locked to the first sidewall and / or bead from a first radially inward locking point, and the first radially inward locking points of each first group of reinforcing elements are circumferentially distributed at a first constant inward angular pitch.

[0065] In one variation, each second reinforcing element is locked to the second sidewall and / or bead from a second radially inward locking point, and the second radially inward locking points of the second reinforcing elements of each second group are circumferentially distributed at a second constant inward angular pitch.

[0066] In a manner inconsistent with the first purpose of the invention, all of the first radially inward locking points of the first reinforcing element are circumferentially distributed at a first constant inward angular pitch.

[0067] In one modification that does not serve the first purpose of the invention, all of the second radially inward locking points of the second reinforcing element are distributed circumferentially at a second constant inward angular pitch.

[0068] Optionally, each first reinforcing element of the first group extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined angle of inclination with respect to the radial direction of the tire, and the angle of inclination of at least one first intermediate reinforcing element included between the first end reinforcing elements of the first group is 2 degrees or less in absolute value, and in particular substantially zero.

[0069] In one modification of the second design, each second reinforcing element of the second group extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined angle of inclination with respect to the radial direction of the tire, and the angle of inclination of at least one second intermediate reinforcing element included between the second end reinforcing elements of the second group is 2 degrees or less in absolute value, and in particular substantially zero.

[0070] Optionally, the two first end reinforcing elements of each first group extend in the principal direction, forming angles with respect to the radial direction of the tire in the range of 5 to 20 degrees in absolute value, particularly 10 to 20 degrees, and more specifically 15 to 20 degrees.

[0071] In one variation, the two second end reinforcing elements of each second group extend in the principal direction, forming angles with respect to the radial direction of the tire ranging from 5 to 20 degrees in absolute value, particularly from 10 to 20 degrees, and more specifically from 15 to 20 degrees.

[0072] Optionally, the first group includes at least one first primary group and at least one first secondary group, wherein each first primary group includes a number of first reinforcing elements that is strictly greater than the number of first reinforcing elements in the first primary group.

[0073] In one variation, the second group includes at least one second primary group and at least one second secondary group, wherein each second primary group includes a number of second reinforcing elements that is strictly greater than the number of second reinforcing elements in each second secondary group.

[0074] Optionally, the first group includes a plurality of first primary and secondary groups arranged alternately in the circumferential direction of the tire.

[0075] In one variation, the second group includes multiple second primary and secondary groups arranged alternately in the circumferential direction of the tire.

[0076] Optionally, each first reinforcing element is secured to the first sidewall and / or bead and extends into the first sidewall and / or bead. Advantageously, each second reinforcing element is secured to the second sidewall and / or bead and extends into the second sidewall and / or bead. Thus, the durability of the securing of the reinforcing structure within each sidewall and / or bead is improved.

[0077] Optionally, the first and / or second radially inward locking point is a point on the inner surface of the tire.

[0078] Optionally, each first reinforcing element is secured to the crown and extends into the crown. Advantageously, each second reinforcing element is secured to the crown and extends into the crown. Therefore, the durability of the securing of the reinforcing structure within the crown is improved.

[0079] Optionally, the first and / or second radially outward locking point is a point on the inner surface of the tire.

[0080] Advantageously, each first reinforcing element includes a portion that extends continuously within the annular cavity from a first radially inward locking point to a first radially outward locking point.

[0081] Advantageously, each first reinforcing element includes a radially outward locking portion that extends from a first radially outward locking point of the crown and continues from a portion that extends continuously within the annular cavity.

[0082] Advantageously, each first reinforcing element includes a radially inward locking portion that extends from a first radially inward locking point of the first sidewall and / or bead and continues from a portion that extends continuously within the annular cavity.

[0083] Advantageously, each second reinforcing element includes a portion that extends continuously within the annular cavity from a second radially inward locking point to a second radially outward locking point.

[0084] Advantageously, each second reinforcing element includes a radially outward locking portion that extends from a second radially outward locking point of the crown and continues from a portion that extends continuously within the annular cavity.

[0085] Advantageously, each second reinforcing element includes a radially inward locking portion that extends from a second radially inward locking point of the second sidewall and / or bead and continues from a portion that extends continuously within the annular cavity.

[0086] Preferably, each first reinforcing element extending from the first sidewall and / or bead to the crown, or the radially inner locking portion of each first reinforcing element, is locked to the first sidewall and / or bead and is locked within or around the first radially inner reinforcing structure of the reinforcing structure positioned on the first sidewall and / or bead. Also preferably, each first reinforcing element extending from the first sidewall and / or bead to the crown, or the radially outer locking portion of each first reinforcing element, is locked to the crown and is locked within or around one or more radially outer reinforcing structures of the reinforcing structure positioned on the crown.

[0087] As a modified example, each first reinforcing element extending from the first sidewall and / or bead to the crown, or the radially inward locking portion of each first reinforcing element, is locked to the first sidewall and / or bead and to the elastomer mass of the first sidewall and / or bead. Also as a modified example, each first reinforcing element extending from the first sidewall and / or bead to the crown, or the radially outward locking portion of each first reinforcing element, is locked to the crown and to the elastomer mass of the crown.

[0088] Optionally, each second reinforcing element extending from the second sidewall and / or bead to the crown, or the radially inner locking portion of each second reinforcing element, is locked to the second sidewall and / or bead and is locked within or around the second radially inner reinforcing structure of the reinforcing structure positioned on the second sidewall and / or bead. Also, optionally, each second reinforcing element extending from the second sidewall and / or bead to the crown, or the radially outer locking portion of each second reinforcing element, is locked to the crown and is locked within or around one or more radially outer reinforcing structures of the reinforcing structure positioned on the crown.

[0089] As a modified example, each second reinforcing element extending from the second sidewall and / or bead to the crown, or the radially inward locking portion of each second reinforcing element, is locked to the second sidewall and / or bead and to the elastomer mass of the second sidewall and / or bead. Also as a modified example, each second reinforcing element extending from the second sidewall and / or bead to the crown, or the radially outward locking portion of each second reinforcing element, is locked to the crown and to the elastomer mass of the crown.

[0090] Of course, the tire may have both the first and second radially inner reinforcing structures and the radially outer reinforcing structure, only the first and second radially inner reinforcing structures, or only the radially outer reinforcing structure.

[0091] Each radially inner or outer reinforcing structure is located within the sidewall and / or the corresponding bead or crown, i.e., it is located radially inward on the inner surface and embedded within the mass of the material forming the sidewall and / or the corresponding bead or crown. The reinforcing structures pass through the inner surface to be locked into or around the corresponding radially inner reinforcing structure, and / or pass through the inner surface to be locked into or around the radially outer reinforcing structure(s).

[0092] As described above, the reinforcing structure can be locked into or around at least one radially inward and / or outward reinforcing structure. In the first modification, the reinforcing structure can be locked into the structure of the reinforcing structure itself, that is, the reinforcing structure enters at least partially into the reinforcing structure or passes through it completely, so that the reinforcing structure forms a mechanical locking of the reinforcing structure.

[0093] More specifically, if the reinforcing structure is an assembly of multiple filamentous elements, "the reinforcing structure is anchored within the structure" means, for example, that the reinforcing structure is wrapped around a particular filamentous element of the reinforcing structure so as to pass through it.

[0094] In a second modification, the reinforcing structure can be anchored around the reinforcing structure itself; that is, the reinforcing structure is supported on the reinforcing structure, and the reinforcing structure absorbs some of the forces acting on the reinforcing structure and anchors the reinforcing structure to the sidewall and / or bead or crown.

[0095] More specifically, if the reinforcing structure is an assembly of multiple filamentous elements, "the reinforcing structure is anchored around the structure" means that the reinforcing structure is wrapped around the filamentous elements around the reinforcing structure, for example, without passing through it.

[0096] In embodiments comprising a first radially inward reinforcing structure positioned on the first sidewall and / or bead, the structure preferably includes at least one first radially inward circumferential reinforcing element that enables the reinforcing structure to be locked in.

[0097] In embodiments comprising a second radially inward reinforcing structure positioned in the second sidewall and / or bead, the structure preferably includes at least one second radially inward circumferential reinforcing element that enables the reinforcing structure to be locked in.

[0098] In one preferred modification, the first bead and the second bead each comprise first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcement elements that enable the tire to be mounted to a tire mounting support, wherein the first radially inward circumferential reinforcement element, or each of the first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcement elements, is located radially outward of each of the first and second circumferential reinforcement elements that enable the tire to be mounted to a tire mounting support.

[0099] Therefore, the transmission of noise generated from the reinforcing structure to the vehicle through the tire mounting support is reduced. The noise generated from the reinforcing structure is absorbed by the tire structure, which separates the radially inward circumferential reinforcing element from the radially inward circumferential reinforcing element that enables the tire to be mounted to the tire mounting support located on the same side as the tire's central plane.

[0100] This absorption is a result of the radially inward circumferential reinforcing element being mechanically separated from the radially inward circumferential reinforcing element suitable for mounting the tire to a tire mounting support located on the same side as the tire's central plane.

[0101] Alternatively, the first radial inner circumferential reinforcing element, or each of the first and second radial inner circumferential reinforcing elements, is suitable for enabling the tire to be attached to the tire mounting support.

[0102] In one embodiment, the first radially inward circumferential reinforcing element, or each of the first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcing elements, is a filamentous reinforcing element extending in the principal direction that forms an angle of 10 degrees or less, preferably 5 degrees or less, and more preferably substantially zero, with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire.

[0103] In embodiments including at least one radially outward reinforcing structure positioned in the crown, this structure preferably includes at least one radially outward circumferential reinforcing element.

[0104] In one embodiment, the radially outer circumferential reinforcing element of the or each radially outer reinforcing structure is a filamentous reinforcing element whose principal direction forms an angle of 10 degrees or less, preferably 5 degrees or less, and more preferably substantially zero, with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire.

[0105] In some embodiments, the tire includes first and second radially outer reinforcing structures. In these embodiments, each of the first and second radially outer reinforcing structures preferably includes first and second radially outer circumferential reinforcing elements, respectively, the first radially outer circumferential reinforcing element being positioned at an axial distance from the second radially outer circumferential reinforcing element.

[0106] This reduces the mass of the reinforcement structure, allows the reinforcement structure to be secured at the crown, limits crown overlap, and as a result maintains a uniform contact surface.

[0107] Preferably, the first radially outer circumferential reinforcing element and the second radially outer circumferential reinforcing element are arranged on both sides of the central plane of the tire.

[0108] Therefore, the axial distribution of force exerted by the reinforcing structure on the crown is improved.

[0109] Each radially inner circumferential reinforcing element and each radially outer circumferential reinforcing element can be wound in different ways, particularly as described in International Publication No. 2022 / 200717.

[0110] Of course, the tire may have multiple such first and / or second radially inward and / or outward reinforcing structures.

[0111] Advantageously, the first radially inward locking point and the first radially outward locking point of each first reinforcing element are located on the same side as the center plane of the tire.

[0112] Optionally, the second radially inward locking point and the second radially outward locking point of each second reinforcing element are positioned on the same opposite side of the tire's center plane.

[0113] As a result, the portions extending between the radially inner and radially outer locking points located on the same side of the central plane, and between the radially inner and radially outer locking points located on the opposite side of the central plane, do not intersect with each other. This makes it possible to limit axial buckling of the tread, i.e., axial compression of the tread, especially under high lateral stress conditions. Consequently, a uniform contact surface is maintained, and the risk of damage to the crown reinforcement of the tire is reduced by preventing compression of various components, particularly the fiber and metal filament reinforcing elements of the crown reinforcement.

[0114] In the first configuration of the reinforcing elements, each first reinforcing element forms a continuous first reinforcing element that meanders from at least the first sidewall and / or bead and passes through the crown. Preferably, each second reinforcing element forms a continuous second reinforcing element that meanders from at least the second sidewall and / or bead and passes through the crown.

[0115] Consequently, tire manufacturing becomes easier, and the robustness of the reinforcing structure is improved by eliminating the need for ends of the reinforcing structure to engage with each sidewall and / or bead and / or crown. In this first configuration, it is possible to have continuous reinforcing elements extending around the entire circumference of the tire. Because the reinforcing elements of the reinforcing structure are continuous, force transmission between each sidewall and / or bead is improved, and as a result, force transmission is distributed throughout the entire tire. Thus, the reinforcing structure performs its function around the entire circumference of the tire.

[0116] According to a first modification of the first configuration of the reinforcing element, the first and second reinforcing elements extend continuously from the first sidewall and / or bead to the second sidewall and / or bead, meandering through the crown, and forming a continuous reinforcing element from the first sidewall and / or bead to the second sidewall and / or bead.

[0117] According to the second modification of the first configuration of the reinforcing element, each first reinforcing element forms a continuous reinforcing element that meanders between the first sidewall and / or bead and the crown. Similarly, in the second modification, each second reinforcing element forms a continuous reinforcing element that meanders between the second sidewall and / or bead and the crown.

[0118] In the second configuration of the reinforcing elements, each first reinforcing element can be assumed to extend from the first sidewall and / or bead to the crown, with one end located within the first sidewall and / or bead. Similarly, each second reinforcing element can be assumed to extend from the second sidewall and / or bead to the crown, with one end located within the second sidewall and / or bead.

[0119] In the first modification of this second configuration, each first reinforcing element can be assumed to extend from the first sidewall and / or bead to the crown, with one end located within the crown. Similarly, each second reinforcing element can be assumed to extend from the second sidewall and / or bead to the crown, with one end located within the crown.

[0120] In this second modification of the second configuration, each first reinforcing element is each a second reinforcing element, extending from the first sidewall and / or bead to the second sidewall and / or bead, passing through the crown, with one end located within each first sidewall and / or bead and each second sidewall and / or bead.

[0121] Each reinforcing element conforming to either the design or configuration defined above can be geometrically characterized in particular by its average cross-section Sm, which does not necessarily have to be identical for all reinforcing elements. The average cross-section Sm is the average of the cross-sections obtained by cutting the reinforcing element through all cylindrical surfaces coaxial with the tire and radially inward of the inner annular cavity. In the most common constant cross-section case, the average cross-section Sm is the constant cross-section of the reinforcing element. The average cross-section Sm includes a larger characteristic dimension Dmax and a smaller characteristic dimension Dmin, and its ratio R = Dmax / Dmin is called the aspect ratio. As an example, the aspect ratio of a reinforcing element with a circular average cross-section Sm equal to diameter d is R = 1, the aspect ratio of a reinforcing element with a rectangular average cross-section Sm of length L and width l is R = L / l, and the aspect ratio of a reinforcing element with an elliptical average cross-section Sm of major axis D and minor axis d is R = D / d.

[0122] A preferred first type of reinforcing element, whose aspect ratio R is equal to a maximum of 3, is known as one-dimensional. In other words, a reinforcing element is considered one-dimensional if its maximum feature dimension Dmax of its average cross-section Sm is equal to a maximum of 3 times its minimum feature dimension Dmin of the average cross-section Sm. One-dimensional reinforcing elements exhibit filamentous mechanical behavior, i.e., they can only be subjected to tensile or compressive forces along their mean line. For this reason, one-dimensional reinforcing elements are commonly called filamentous reinforcing elements. Among the components commonly used in the tire field, fiber filament elements, which are aggregates of basic monofilaments of fibers, or metal cords, which are aggregates of basic monofilaments of metals, can be considered one-dimensional reinforcing elements because their average cross-section Sm is substantially circular and their aspect ratio R is 1 (i.e., less than 3).

[0123] A second reinforcing element whose aspect ratio R is at least equal to 3 is called a two-dimensional element. In other words, a reinforcing element is considered two-dimensional if the maximum feature dimension Dmax of the average cross-section Sm is at least three times the minimum feature dimension Dmin of the average cross-section Sm. A two-dimensional reinforcing element exhibits film-like mechanical behavior, i.e., it can only be subjected to tensile or compressive forces in the thickness direction defined by the minimum feature dimension Dmin of the average cross-section Sm. According to the first modification, a reinforcing element whose aspect ratio R is at least equal to 3 and at most equal to 50 is called a strap-type two-dimensional reinforcing element. According to the second modification, a reinforcing element whose aspect ratio R is at least equal to 50 is called a film-type two-dimensional reinforcing element.

[0124] The materials that can be used for each reinforcement element are as described in International Publication No. 2022 / 200717.

[0125] In a highly advantageous embodiment, each first and / or second reinforcing element is a first and / or second filamentous reinforcing element, preferably a first and / or second fibrous filamentous reinforcing element. Preferably, the filamentous reinforcing elements are identical, i.e., have the same geometric properties and constituent material.

[0126] These filamentous reinforcing elements are commonly called stays. The advantage of using filamentous reinforcing elements is that they provide a low-mass, low-hysteresis reinforced structure. By using identical filamentous reinforcing elements, it is possible to obtain a uniform force distribution between the reinforcing elements.

[0127] Fibers are defined as materials in which each filamentous reinforcing element is nonmetallic, and are made from materials selected from, for example, polyester, polyamide, polyketone, polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose, mineral fibers, natural fibers, elastomer materials, or mixtures thereof. Polyesters include, for example, PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), PBN (polybutylene naphthalate), PPT (polypropylene terephthalate), and PPN (polypropylene naphthalate). Polyamides include aliphatic polyamides such as polyamide 4-6, 6,6-6 (nylon), 11, and 12, and aromatic polyamides such as aramid. Preferably, the material is polyester or aliphatic polyamide.

[0128] The present invention is given as non-limiting embodiments and can be better understood by reading the detailed description of the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0129] [Figure 1] This shows a tire in a meridional cross-section parallel to the axis of rotation, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the locking of the reinforcing structure in Figure 1 to the first bead, the second bead, and the crown of the tire in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing the locking of the reinforcing structure in Figure 1 to the first bead, the second bead, and the crown of the tire in Figure 1. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of a conventional tire exhibiting a non-circular defect. [Figure 5]Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams illustrating the reduction of non-circular defects in tires. [Figure 6] This figure is similar to Figure 2 of a tire according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This figure is similar to Figure 2 of a tire according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0130] The drawings related to the tire show the coordinate systems X, Y, and Z, which correspond to the tire's normal axial (Y), radial (Z), and circumferential (X) directions, respectively.

[0131] The drawings show a tire 10 having a substantially annular shape around an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the axial direction Y. The tire 10 is suitable for passenger cars and has a size of 275 / 35ZR19. In each drawing, the tire 10 is shown in a new, i.e., unused condition.

[0132] A tire 10 according to a first exemplary embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 3 includes a crown 12 with a tread 14 suitable for contacting the ground during driving, and a crown reinforcement 16 extending circumferentially X within the crown 12. The tire 10 further includes an inner layer 18.

[0133] The tire 10 further comprises a crown reinforcement which includes a working reinforcement 20 including working layers 24, 26 and a hoop reinforcement 22 including a hoop layer 28, identical to that described in International Publication No. 2022 / 200717.

[0134] The tire 10 comprises first and second sidewalls 30A, 30B extending radially inward from the crown 12. The second sidewall 30B is opposite the first sidewall 30A with respect to the central plane M. The tire 10 further comprises a first bead 32A and a second bead 32B extending radially inward from the first sidewall 30A and the second sidewall 30B, respectively. The second bead 32B is opposite the first bead 32A with respect to the central plane M. Each of the first sidewall 30A and the second sidewall 30B connects each of the first bead 32A and the second bead 32B to the crown 12. The tire 10 comprises an inner surface 34 suitable for contact with the tire's expansion gas, which defines an annular expansion cavity 36 of the tire 10, where the inner surface 34 is supported by an inner layer 18.

[0135] The tire 10 includes first and second radially inward reinforcing structures 38A and 38B, respectively, which are positioned on the first and second beads 32A and 32B.

[0136] Each of the first and second radially inward reinforcing structures 38A, 38B comprises at least one of the first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcing elements 40A, 40B, respectively, which are located within each of the first and second beads 32A, 32B, and which include at least first and second filamentary reinforcing elements, as described in detail in International Publication No. WO2022 / 200717.

[0137] Each of the first and second beads 32A, 32B comprises first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcing elements 42A, 42B, respectively, which are suitable for enabling the tire 10 to be mounted to a mounting support, such as a rim.

[0138] Each of the first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcing elements 40A, 40B is positioned radially outward of each of the first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcing elements 42A, 42B, respectively, which is suitable for enabling the tire 10 to be attached to the mounting support of the tire 10.

[0139] The tire 10 further comprises first and second radially outward reinforcing structures 44A, 44B positioned on the crown 12, each having first and second radially outward circumferential reinforcing elements 46A, 46B respectively, which are axially positioned on both sides of the central plane M of the tire 10 and are substantially symmetrical with respect to the central plane M of the tire 10. Each of the first and second radially outward circumferential reinforcing elements 46A, 46B is as described in International Publication No. 2022 / 200717.

[0140] The tire 10 includes carcass reinforcements 48 anchored to each first bead 32A and second bead 32B, in this example the carcass reinforcements 48 are wrapped around each first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcement element 42A, 42B which are suitable for enabling the tire 10 to be attached to the mounting support of the tire 10. The carcass reinforcements 48 extend into each first and second bead 32A, 32B and into each first and second sidewall 30A, 30B, so that each first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcement element 40A, 40B is positioned radially inward of the carcass reinforcements 48. The carcass reinforcements 48 also extend into the crown 12 radially inward of the crown reinforcement 16. The crown reinforcement 16 is positioned radially between the tread 14 and the carcass reinforcements 48. The carcass reinforcement 48 includes at least one carcass layer 50, in this case a single carcass layer 50.

[0141] The tire 10 includes a reinforcing structure 52 that extends from a first bead 32A to the crown 12 within the annular cavity 36, where it is engaged with the first bead 32A and engaged around a first radially inner reinforcing structure 38A. The reinforcing structure 52 extends from a second bead 32B to the crown 12 within the annular cavity 36, where it is engaged with the second bead 32B and engaged around a second radially inner reinforcing structure 38B. The reinforcing structure 52 extends from the first bead 32A and the second bead 32B to the crown 12 within the annular cavity 36, where it is engaged with the crown 12 and engaged around radially outer reinforcing structures 44A, 44B.

[0142] The reinforcing structure 52 comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements 54, including a plurality of first reinforcing elements 54A extending continuously within the annular cavity 36 and a plurality of second reinforcing elements 54B extending continuously within the annular cavity 36. The first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B are distributed circumferentially within the annular cavity 36. The circumferential distribution of the first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B will be described below with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0143] Each reinforcing element 54 is a fibrous filamentous reinforcing element comprising an aggregate of three multifilament layers of aliphatic polyamide, such as nylon, where each of the three multifilament layers is twisted spirally in one direction at 190 turns per meter, and then twisted together spirally in the opposite direction at 190 turns per meter. Each of these multifilament layers has 188 tex threads. Each first reinforcing element 54A extends continuously from the first sidewall 30A and / or the first bead 32A to the crown 12. Each second reinforcing element 54B extends continuously from the second sidewall 30A and / or the second bead 32A to the crown 12.

[0144] To ensure optimal locking of the first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B, each of the first and second radially inward reinforcing structures 38A and 38B, and more specifically, each of the first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcing elements 40A and 40B, has relatively high tensile and bending rigidity.

[0145] To ensure optimal locking of the first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B, each of the first and second radially outer reinforcing structures 44A and 44B, and more specifically each of the first and second radially outer circumferential reinforcing elements 46A and 46B, has relatively high tensile stiffness and relatively low bending stiffness to limit the overlapping of the crown 12 and eliminate the risk of impairing the flattening of the tread 14.

[0146] Each first reinforcing element 54A is secured in or around the first radially inner reinforcing structure 38A in the first bead 32A. Each second reinforcing element 54B is secured in or around the second radially inner reinforcing structure 38B in the second bead 32B.

[0147] Each of the first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B is also secured in the crown 12 around the first and second radially outer reinforcing structures 44A and 44B, respectively, and more specifically around the first and second radially outer circumferential reinforcing elements 46A and 46B. Here, each of the first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B is at least partially wrapped around each of the first and second radially outer circumferential reinforcing elements 46A and 46B, respectively.

[0148] Each first reinforcing element 54A passes through the inner surface 34 at the first radially inner locking point 56A of the first bead 32A in order to lock around the first radially inner reinforcing structure 38A, and further passes through the inner surface 34 at the first radially outer locking point 58A of the crown 12 in order to lock around the first radially outer reinforcing structure 44A. Thus, each first reinforcing element 54A is locked to the first bead 32A and extends into the first bead 32A from the first radially inner locking point 56A. Each first reinforcing element 54A is locked to the crown 12 and extends into the crown 12 from the first radially outer locking point 58A.

[0149] Each second reinforcing element 54B passes through the inner surface 34 at the second radially inner locking point 56B of the second bead 32B in order to lock around the second radially inner reinforcing structure 38B, and passes through the inner surface 34 at the second radially outer locking point 58B in the crown 12 in order to lock around the second radially outer reinforcing structure 44B. Thus, each second reinforcing element 54B is locked to the second bead 32B and extends into the second bead 32B from the second radially inner locking point 56B.

[0150] Each first reinforcing element 54A comprises a radially inward locking portion 541, a portion 543, and a radially outward locking portion 545, wherein portion 543 is continuous with the radially inward locking portion 541 on one side and with the radially outward locking portion 545 on the other side.

[0151] Each second reinforcing element 54B comprises a radially inward locking portion 542, a portion 544, and a radially outward locking portion 546, wherein portion 544 is continuous with the radially inward locking portion 542 on one side and with the radially outward locking portion 546 on the other side.

[0152] Each portion 543 of the first reinforcing element 54A extends continuously within the annular cavity 36 from a first radially inward locking point 56A to a first radially outward locking point 58A.

[0153] Each portion 544 of the second reinforcing element 54B extends continuously within the annular cavity 36 from a second radially inward locking point 56B to a second radially outward locking point 58B.

[0154] Each first reinforcing element 54A has a radially inward locking portion 541 that extends from a first radially inward locking point 56A of the first bead 32A in order to lock around the first radially inward reinforcing structure 38A.

[0155] Each first reinforcing element 54A has a radially outward locking portion 545 that extends from a first radially outward locking point 58A of the crown 12 in order to lock around the first radially outward reinforcing structure 44A.

[0156] Each second reinforcing element 54B has a radially inward locking portion 542 that extends from the second radially inward locking point 56B of the second bead 32B in order to lock around the second radially inward reinforcing structure 38B.

[0157] Each second reinforcing element 54B has a radially outward locking portion 546 that extends from a second radially outward locking point 56B of the crown 12 in order to lock around the second radially outward reinforcing structure 44B.

[0158] Each first reinforcing element 54A forms a continuous first reinforcing element that meanders from at least the first sidewall 32A and passes through the crown 12, and each second reinforcing element 54B forms a continuous second reinforcing element that meanders from at least the second bead 32B and passes through the crown 12. More specifically, the first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B form a continuous reinforcing element 54 that extends continuously from the first bead 32A to the second bead 32B, passes through the crown 12 and meanders from the first bead 32A to the second bead 32B.

[0159] The first radially outer locking point 58A is positioned on the same axial side with respect to the central plane M as the first radially inner locking point 56A and the first radially inner reinforcing structure 38A. The second radially outer locking point 58B is positioned on the same axial side with respect to the central plane M as the second radially inner locking point 56B and the second radially inner reinforcing structure 38B. Each of the first and second radially inner locking points 56A, 56B and the outer locking points 58A, 56B is positioned such that their portions 543, 544 do not intersect each other within the annular cavity 36.

[0160] Each of the first and second reinforcing elements 54A, 54B is partially wrapped around the first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcing elements 40A, 40B, respectively, and each of the first and second radially inward circumferential reinforcing elements 40A, 40B is the sole radially inward circumferential reinforcing element of the corresponding first and second radially inward reinforcing structures 38A, 38B, respectively, and is wrapped around the circumferential direction in a full rotation around the axis of rotation.

[0161] Preferably, the first sidewall 30A and / or bead 32A are located on the same side of the tire's central plane as the inside of the tire.

[0162] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the first reinforcing element 54A is positioned in the first group 60A of first reinforcing elements 54A that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the tire 10, and the second reinforcing element 54B is positioned in the second group 60B of second reinforcing elements 54B that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the tire 10.

[0163] Each first group 60A is circumferentially separated by two first end reinforcing elements 541A, 542A, and the other first reinforcing element 54A of the first group 60A is circumferentially positioned between the two first end reinforcing elements 541A, 542A of the first group 60A. Similarly, each second group 60B is circumferentially separated by two second end reinforcing elements 541B, 542B, and the other second reinforcing element 54B of the second group 60B is circumferentially positioned between the two second end reinforcing elements 541B, 542B of the second group 60B.

[0164] The first end reinforcing element 541A of the first group 60A is an end reinforcing element of the first group 60A in a counterclockwise direction, adjacent to another first end reinforcing element 542A of the first group 60A and adjacent to the first reinforcing element 54A of the first group 60A. Similarly, the first end reinforcing element 542A of the first group 60A is a first end reinforcing element of the first group 60A in a clockwise direction, adjacent to another first end reinforcing element 541A of the first group 60A and adjacent to the first reinforcing element 54A of the first group 60A.

[0165] Similarly, the second end reinforcing element 541B of the second group 60B is an end reinforcing element of the second group 60B in a counterclockwise direction, adjacent to another second end reinforcing element 542B of the second group 60B and adjacent to the second reinforcing element 54B of the second group 60B. Similarly, the second end reinforcing element 542B of the second group 60B is an end reinforcing element of the second group 60B in a clockwise direction, adjacent to another second end reinforcing element 541B of the second group 60B and adjacent to the second reinforcing element 54B of the second group 60B.

[0166] In the illustrated example, the first group 60A comprises a first primary group 601A and a first secondary group 602A. The second reinforcing element 54B comprises a second primary group 601B and a second secondary group 602B.

[0167] Each of the first and second primary groups 601A and 601B has N1A and N1B first reinforcing elements 54A and second reinforcing elements 54B, respectively. Each of the first and second secondary groups 602A and 602B has N2A and N2B first reinforcing elements 54A and second reinforcing elements 54B, respectively. Here, N1A=N1B>N2A=N2B.

[0168] Since the first primary group 601A and the first secondary group 602A are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction, when moving circumferentially along the tire 10, one encounters the first primary group 601A, and then the first secondary group 602A. Since the second primary and secondary groups 601B and 602B are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction, when moving circumferentially along the tire 10, one encounters the second primary group 601B, and then the second secondary group 602B.

[0169] The first radially inward locking points 56A of the first reinforcing element 54A of each first group 60A are distributed circumferentially at a first constant inward angular pitch A1A. The second radially inward locking points 56B of the second reinforcing element 54B of each second group 60B are distributed circumferentially at a second constant inward angular pitch A1B.

[0170] More specifically, the first and second radially inward locking points 56A and 56B of the first reinforcing element 54A and the second reinforcing element 54B of each first primary group 601A and second primary group 601B are distributed circumferentially at first and second constant inward angular pitches A1A and A1B, respectively. Therefore, the angular distances between the two first end reinforcing elements 541A and 542A and the second end reinforcing elements 541B and 542B in each first primary group 601A and second primary group 601B are equal to (N1A-1)*A1A and (N1B-1)*A1B, respectively. Here, since N1A=N1B and A1A=A1B, (N1A-1)*A1A=(N1B-1)*A1B.

[0171] Similarly, the first and second radially inward locking points 56A and 56B of the first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B of each of the first and second secondary groups 602A and 602B are distributed circumferentially at constant inward angular pitches A1A and A1B for each of the first and second secondary groups 602A and 602B. Thus, the angular distances between the two first end reinforcing elements 541A and 542A and the second end elements 541B and 542B in each of the first and second secondary groups 602A and 602B are equal to (N2A-1)*A1A and (N2B-1)*A1B, respectively. Here, since N2A=N2B and A2A=A2B, (N2A1)*A1A=(N2B-1)*A1B.

[0172] The first inner angular pitch A2A separating the first radially inner locking point 56A of each first end reinforcing element 541A, 542A of one of the first group 60A from the first radially inner locking point 56A of another first end reinforcing element 542A, 541A of another first group 60A adjacent to the said first end reinforcing element 541A, 542A is, unlike the first constant inner angular pitch A1A, here strictly greater than the first constant inner angular pitch A1A. Similarly, the second inner angular pitch A2B separating the second radially inner locking point 56B of each second end reinforcing element 541B, 542B of one of the second group 60B from the second radially inner locking point 56B of another second end reinforcing element 542B, 542B of another second group 60B adjacent to the first end reinforcing element 541A, 542A is, unlike the second constant inner angular pitch A1B, which here is strictly larger than the second constant inner angular pitch A1B.

[0173] More specifically, the first inner angular pitch A2A between the first end reinforcing element 541A of the first primary group 601A and the first end reinforcing element 542A of the first secondary group 602A adjacent to the first primary group 601A is strictly greater than the first constant inner angular pitch A1A. Similarly, the first inner angular pitch A2A between the first end reinforcing element 542A of the first primary group 601A and the first end reinforcing element 541A of the first secondary group 602A adjacent to the first primary group 601A is strictly greater than the first constant inner angular pitch A1A.

[0174] Similarly, the second inner angular pitch A2B between the second end reinforcing element 541B of the second primary group 601B and the second end reinforcing element 542B of the second secondary group 602B adjacent to the second primary group 601B is strictly greater than the second constant inner angular pitch A1B.

[0175] The first and second radially outward locking points 58A and 58B of the first and second end reinforcing elements 54A and 54B of each first group 60A and second group 60B are distributed circumferentially at first and second constant outward angular pitches A3A and A3B.

[0176] The first outer angular pitch A4A that separates the first radially outer locking point 58A of each first end reinforcing element 541A, 542A of one of the first group 60A from the first radially outer locking point 58A of another first end reinforcing element 542A, 541A of another first group 60A adjacent to the said first end reinforcing element 541A, 542A is equal to the first outer angular pitch A3A. Thus, all of the first radially outer locking points 58A of the first reinforcing element 54A are distributed circumferentially at a first constant outer angular pitch A3A.

[0177] Similarly, the second radially outer locking point 58B of one of the second end reinforcing elements 541B, 542B of the second group 60B and the second radially outer locking point 58B of another second end reinforcing element 542B, 541B of the second group 60B adjacent to the said second end reinforcing element 541B, 542B is equal to the second constant outer angular pitch A3B. Thus, all of the second radially outer locking points 58B of the second reinforcing element 54B are circumferentially distributed at the second constant outer angular pitch A3B.

[0178] Here, the first and second constant outer angular pitches A3A and A3B are strictly greater than the first and second constant inner angular pitches A1A and A1B, respectively.

[0179] The first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B of each of the first and second groups 60A and 60B extend in the radial direction of the tire 10 and in the principal direction that forms a predetermined inclination angle, such that at least two first reinforcing elements 54A of each first group 60A extend at different inclination angles, and at least two second reinforcing elements 54B of each second group 60B extend at different inclination angles.

[0180] Each first reinforcing element 54A of each first group 60A extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire 10, and this inclination angle decreases as one moves circumferentially from the first end reinforcing element 541A of each first group 60A toward the first intermediate reinforcing element 543A of each first group 60A, which is located between the two first end reinforcing elements 541A and 542B of each first group 60A. Here, each first intermediate reinforcing element 543A of each first group 60A is located at an angular equidistant distance from each first end reinforcing element 541A and 542A. Each first reinforcing element 54A of each first group 60A extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire 10, and this inclination angle increases as one moves circumferentially from the first intermediate reinforcing element 543A of each first group 60A toward the other first end reinforcing element 542A.

[0181] Similarly, each second reinforcing element 54B of each second group 60B extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined angle of inclination with respect to the radial direction of the tire 10, and this angle of inclination decreases as one proceeds circumferentially from the second end reinforcing element 541B of each second group 60B toward the second intermediate reinforcing element 543B of each second group 60B, which is located between the two second end reinforcing elements 541B and 542B of each second group 60B. Here, each second intermediate reinforcing element 543B of each second group 60B is located angularly equidistant from the second end reinforcing elements 541B and 542B. Each second reinforcing element 54B of each second group 60B extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined angle of inclination with respect to the radial direction of the tire 10, and this angle of inclination increases as one proceeds circumferentially from the second intermediate reinforcing element 543B of each second group 60B toward the other second reinforcing element 542B.

[0182] The inclination angles of each of the first intermediate reinforcing elements 543A and 543B are 2 degrees or less in absolute value, and are effectively zero here. Each of the first and second end reinforcing elements 541A, 542A and 541B and 542B extends in the principal direction, forming angles with respect to the radial direction of the tire 10 in the range of 5 to 20 degrees in absolute value, more specifically in the range of 10 to 20 degrees, and even more specifically in the range of 15 to 20 degrees.

[0183] Figure 4 shows a prior art tire, not according to the present invention, described in International Publication No. 2022 / 200717. This tire comprises first and second reinforcing elements, all of which are circumferentially distributed with a constant radially inward angular pitch, and all of which are circumferentially distributed with a constant radially outward angular pitch. In Figure 4, a non-circular defect associated with a given method (here, the method described in International Publication No. 2022 / 200717) is shown in an exaggerated form by an arc CD. For a given azimuth angle, the further the arc CD is from circle CR, the larger the actual radius of the tire at that azimuth angle is compared to the theoretical radius. Conversely, the closer the arc CD is to circle CR, the smaller the actual radius of the tire at that azimuth angle is compared to the theoretical radius. The theoretical radius is shown by circle CT.

[0184] Figure 5 shows a tire according to the first exemplary embodiment described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3. The present invention reduces the amplitude of the arc, thereby allowing the actual radius of the tire to approach the theoretical radius for each azimuth angle, and consequently reducing non-circular defects. Therefore, the acoustic characteristics of this method are also reduced.

[0185] The second exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 6 differs from the first exemplary embodiment in that the first outer angular pitch A4A separating the first radially outer locking point 58A of each first end reinforcing element 541A, 542A of one of the first group 60A from the first radially outer locking point 58A of another first end reinforcing element 542A, 541A of another first group 60A adjacent to the first end reinforcing elements 541A, 542A is different from the first constant outer angular pitch A3A, and here is strictly larger than the first constant outer angular pitch A3A. Similarly, the outer angular pitch A4B separating the second radially outer locking point 58B of each second end reinforcing element 541A, 542A of one of the second group 60B from the second radially outer locking point 58B of another second end reinforcing element 542B, 541B of another second group 60B adjacent to the second end reinforcing elements 541B, 542B is, unlike the second constant outer angular pitch A3B, which is strictly larger here than the second constant outer angular pitch A3B.

[0186] The first inner angular pitch A2A that separates the first radially inner locking point 56A of each first end reinforcing element 541A, 542A of one of the first group 60A from the first radially inner locking point 56A of another first end reinforcing element 541A, 542A of another first group 60A adjacent to the said first end reinforcing element 542A, 541A is equal to the first constant outer angular pitch A1A. Thus, all first radially inner locking points 56A of the first reinforcing element 54A are distributed circumferentially at the first constant inner angular pitch A1A.

[0187] Similarly, the second inner angular pitch A2B separating the second radially inner locking point 56B of each second end reinforcing element 541B, 542B of one of the second group 60B from the second radially inner locking point 56B of another second end reinforcing element 542B, 542B of another second group 60B adjacent to the said second end reinforcing element 541B, 542B is equal to the second constant inner angular pitch A2B. Thus, all the second inner locking points 56B of the second reinforcing element 54B are circumferentially distributed at the second constant inner angular pitch A1B.

[0188] The third exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 7 is a combination of the first and second exemplary embodiments described above.

[0189] Therefore, the first and second internal angular pitches A2A and A2B are different from the first and second constant internal angular pitches A1A and A1B, respectively, and are strictly larger than the first and second constant internal angular pitches A1A and A1B, respectively. The first and second external angular pitches A4A and A4B are different from the first and second constant external angular pitches A3A and A3B, respectively, and are strictly larger than the first and second constant external angular pitches A3A and A3B, respectively.

[0190] Unlike the first and second exemplary embodiments described above, the first and second reinforcing elements 54A and 54B extend in a principal direction that forms a predetermined angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire 10, the absolute value of which the angle is less than 2 degrees, and in particular substantially zero.

[0191] Embodiments can also be envisioned in which the group consists of two end reinforcing elements and therefore does not include intermediate elements. Accordingly, the constant angular pitch of each of these groups is the angle that separates the locking points of the two end reinforcing elements.

[0192] We can imagine multiple groups, each having a specific angular pitch that differs from the others.

[0193] Combinations of the above-described features of the present invention with the locking member described in French application No. 2315326 by the present applicant, and / or with or without a sealing layer as described in French application No. 2315327, and / or the main reinforcing element and additional reinforcing element described in French application No. 2315325, and / or the inner and outer layers described in French application No. 2325328, and / or the locking of the radially inner portion of the reinforcing element described in French application No. 2401572 can be envisioned. [Explanation of symbols]

[0194] 10 tires 12 Crown 30A First sidewall 30B Second sidewall 32A First bead 32B Second bead 34. Inner self 36 Circular Annular Cavity 52 Reinforcement structure 54A First reinforcement element 56A First radially inward locking point 60A Group 1 541A, 542A First end reinforcing element A1A First constant inner angle pitch A2A First Inner Angle Pitch

Claims

1. A tire (10) comprising a crown (12), first and second sidewalls (30A, 30B) each extending radially inward from the crown (12), and first and second beads (32A, 32B) each extending radially inward from the first and second sidewalls (30A, 30B), wherein the tire (10) comprises an inner surface (34) defining an annular cavity (36) for inflating the tire (10), and the tire (10) comprises a reinforcing structure (52) including a plurality of first reinforcing elements (54A), each of which extends continuously into the annular cavity (36) from at least a first radially inward locking point (56A) of the first sidewall (30A) and / or bead (32A) to at least the crown (12), The first reinforcing element (54A) is arranged in a first group (60A) of first reinforcing elements (54A) that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the tire (10), Each of the first group (60A) is separated in the circumferential direction by two first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A), The first radially inward locking points (56A) of each of the first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first group (60A) are distributed circumferentially at a first constant inward angular pitch (A1A), A tire (10) wherein the first inner angular pitch (A2A) separating each of the first radially inward locking points (56A) of one of the first reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of the first group (60A) from the first radially inward locking points (56A) of the first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of another first group (60A) adjacent to the first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) is different from the first constant inner angular pitch (A1A).

2. A tire (10) comprising a crown (12), first and second sidewalls (30A, 30B) each extending radially inward from the crown (12), and first and second beads (32A, 32B) each extending radially inward from the first and second sidewalls (30A, 30B), wherein the tire (10) comprises an inner surface (34) defining an annular cavity (36) for inflating the tire (10), and the tire (10) comprises a reinforcing structure (52) including a plurality of first reinforcing elements (54A), each of which extends continuously into the annular cavity (36) from at least the first sidewall (30A) and / or bead (32A) to at least the crown (12) to a first radially outward locking point (58A), The first reinforcing element (54A) is arranged in a first group (60A) of adjacent first reinforcing elements (54A) in the circumferential direction of the tire (10), Each of the first group (60A) is separated in the circumferential direction by two first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A), The first radially outward locking points (58A) of each of the first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first group (60A) are distributed circumferentially at a first constant outward angular pitch (A3A), A tire (10) wherein the first radially outward locking point (58A) of each of the first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of one of the first group (60A) is different from the first radially outward locking point (58A) of the first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of the other first group (60A) adjacent to the first end reinforcing element (541A, 542A), is different from the first constant outward angle pitch (A3A).

3. The reinforcing structure (52) includes a plurality of second reinforcing elements (54B), each of which extends continuously within the annular cavity (36) from at least the second radially inward locking point (56B) of the second sidewall (30B) and / or bead (32B) to at least the crown (12). The second reinforcing element (54B) is arranged in a second group (60B) of adjacent second reinforcing elements (54B) in the circumferential direction of the tire (10), Each of the second group (60B) is separated in the circumferential direction by two second end reinforcing elements, The second radially inward locking point (56B) of each of the second reinforcing elements (54B) of the second group (60B) is distributed circumferentially at a second constant inward angular pitch (A1B), The tire (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second inner angular pitch (A2B) separating each of the second radially inward locking points (56B) of one of the second end reinforcing elements (541B, 542B) of the second group (60B) from the second radially inward locking points (56B) of another second end reinforcing element (541B, 542B) of the second group (60B) adjacent to the second end reinforcing element (541B, 542B) is different from the second constant inner angular pitch (A1B).

4. The reinforcing structure (52) includes a plurality of second reinforcing elements (54B), each of which extends continuously within the annular cavity (36) from at least the second sidewall (30B) and / or bead (32B) to at least a second radially outward locking point (58B) to the crown (12). The second reinforcing element (54B) is arranged in a second group (60B) of second reinforcing elements (54B) that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of the tire (10). Each of the second group (60B) is separated in the circumferential direction by two second end reinforcing elements (541B), (542B), The second radially outward locking point (58B) of each of the second reinforcing elements (54B) of the second group (60B) is distributed circumferentially at a second constant outward angular pitch (A3A), The tire (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second outer angular pitch (A4A) between each of the second radially outer locking points (58B) of one of the second end reinforcing elements (541B, 542B) of the second group (60B) and the second radially outer locking point (58B) of the second end reinforcing element (541B, 542B) of another second group (60B) adjacent to the second end reinforcing element (541B, 542B) is different from the second outer angular pitch (A3A).

5. The tire (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each of the first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first group (60A) extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire (10), and at least two of the first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first group (60A) extend at different inclination angles.

6. Each of the first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first group (60A) extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire (10), - The inclination angle decreases as it proceeds circumferentially from one of the two first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of the first group (60A) toward the first intermediate reinforcing element (543A) of the first group (60A) which is located between the two first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of the first group (60A). - The inclination angle increases as it proceeds circumferentially from the first intermediate reinforcing element (543A) located between the two first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of the first group (60A) toward the other of the two end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of the first group (60A). A tire (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the tire is configured as described above.

7. The tire (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each of the first reinforcing elements (54A) is locked into the crown (12) from a first radially outward locking point (58A), and the first radially outward locking points (58A) of each of the reinforcing elements (54A) of the first group (60A) are circumferentially distributed at a first constant outward angular pitch (A3A).

8. The tire (10) according to claim 1 or any one of claims 3 to 7 dependent on claim 1, wherein all of the first radially outward locking points (58A) of the first reinforcing element (54A) are distributed circumferentially at a first constant outward angular pitch (A3A).

9. Each of the first reinforcing elements (54A) is engaged from a first radially inward locking point (56A) within the first sidewall (30A) and / or bead (32A), and the first radially inward locking points (56A) of each of the first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first group (60A) are circumferentially distributed at a first constant inward angular pitch (A1A), the tire (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. All of the first radially inward locking points (56A) of the first reinforcing element (54A) are distributed circumferentially at a first constant inward angular pitch (A1A), the tire (10) according to claim 2 or any one of claims 3 to 7 dependent on claim 2.

11. Each of the first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first group (60A) extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined inclination angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire (10), and the inclination angle of at least one first intermediate reinforcing element (543A) included between the first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of the first group (60A) is 2 degrees or less in absolute value, preferably substantially zero, the tire (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The tire (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein each of the two first end reinforcing elements (541A, 542A) of the first group extends in a principal direction that forms a predetermined angle with respect to the radial direction of the tire (10) in an absolute value range of 5 to 20 degrees, more specifically in a range of 10 to 20 degrees, and even more specifically in a range of 15 to 20 degrees.

13. The tire (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first group (60A) comprises at least one first primary group (601A) and at least one first secondary group (602A), and the number of first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first primary group (601A) is strictly greater than the number of first reinforcing elements (54A) of the first secondary group (602A).

14. The tire (10) according to claim 13, wherein the first group (60A) includes a plurality of first primary groups (601A) and secondary groups (602A) arranged alternately in the circumferential direction of the tire (10).

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