Pneumatic tires

Abstract

To provide a pneumatic tire in which traction performance of a side wall can be improved.SOLUTION: The pneumatic tire comprises side walls 22 extending in a tire radial direction. The side wall 22 comprises a first side block 6 protruding outward in a tire axial direction. The first side block 6 comprises a first base part 6a extending along the tire radial direction and a first inclined part 6b and a second inclined part 6c extending from an inner end in the radial direction of the first base part 6a. The first inclined part 6b gradually extends toward a first side in a tire circumferential direction as approaching the inside in the tire radial direction thereof, and the second inclined part 6c gradually extends toward a second side in the tire circumferential direction as approaching the inside in the tire radial direction thereof.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to pneumatic tires. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, for example, a pneumatic tire has a sidewall extending in the tire radial direction, and the sidewall has a plurality of side blocks protruding outward in the tire axial direction (for example, Patent Document 1). The side blocks can improve traction performance (for example, the ability to generate traction when the surface or edge components of the side blocks come into contact with snow, mud, sand, rocks, etc.).

[0003] In the pneumatic tire according to Patent Document 1, all of the side blocks extend along the tire radial direction. This means that only the edge length corresponding to the tire radial dimension of the side block can be ensured, and it is believed that there is room for further improvement in the traction performance of the sidewall. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-264962 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a pneumatic tire capable of improving the traction performance of the sidewall. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The pneumatic tire has a sidewall extending in a tire radial direction, the sidewall having a first side block protruding outward in the tire axial direction, the first side block having a first base portion extending along the tire radial direction, and a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion extending from an inner end of the first base portion in the tire radial direction, the first inclined portion extending to a first side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves inward in the tire radial direction, and the second inclined portion extending to a second side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves inward in the tire radial direction. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of a tire meridian plane of a pneumatic tire according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a main portion of a pneumatic tire according to the embodiment; [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a side view of a main portion of a pneumatic tire according to the embodiment; [Figure 4] Enlarged view of the main part of Figure 3 [Diagram 5] Cross-sectional view of the main part of line VV in Figure 4 [Figure 6] Cross-sectional view of the main part taken along line VI-VI in Figure 4 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, one embodiment of a pneumatic tire will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. Note that in each figure, the dimensional ratios in the drawing do not necessarily match the actual dimensional ratios, and the dimensional ratios between the drawings do not necessarily match either.

[0009] The dimensional values, positional relationships, and size relationships described below were measured in a normal unloaded state with a pneumatic tire (hereinafter simply referred to as "tire") 1 mounted on a normal rim and inflated to normal internal pressure. A normal rim is a rim that is determined for each tire 1 by a standard system that includes the standard on which the tire 1 is based, and is, for example, a standard rim for JATMA and a "Measuring Rim" for TRA and ETRTO.

[0010] In addition, the normal internal pressure is the air pressure set for each tire 1 by each standard in the standard system including the standard on which tire 1 is based, and in the case of JATMA, it is the maximum air pressure, in the case of TRA, it is the maximum value listed in the table "TIRE LOAD LIMITS AT VARIOUS COLD INFLATION PRESSURES", and in the case of ETRTO, it is "INFLATION PRESSURE".

[0011] In each drawing, the first direction D1 is the tire axial direction D1 parallel to the tire rotation axis, the second direction D2 is the tire radial direction D2 which is the diameter direction of the tire 1, and the third direction D3 is the tire circumferential direction D3 which is the direction around the tire rotation axis. The tire equatorial plane S1 is a plane perpendicular to the tire rotation axis and located at the center of the tire axial direction D1, and the tire meridian planes S2 to S7 are planes which include the tire rotation axis and are perpendicular to the tire equatorial plane S1.

[0012] In the tire axial direction D1, the inner side refers to the side closer to the tire equatorial plane S1, and the outer side refers to the side farther from the tire equatorial plane S1. In the tire radial direction D2, the inner side refers to the side closer to the tire rotation axis, and the outer side refers to the side farther from the tire rotation axis. In the tire circumferential direction D3, the first side D31 is also referred to as the first circumferential side D31, and the second side D32 is also referred to as the second circumferential side D32.

[0013] 1, the tire 1 may include, for example, a pair of bead portions 21, sidewalls 22 extending outward in the tire radial direction D2 from each bead portion 21, and a tread 23 connected to the outer ends of each of the pair of sidewalls 22, 22 in the tire radial direction D2 and having a tread surface 23a in contact with the ground on the outer side in the tire radial direction D2. The tire 1 may be mounted on a rim (not shown), for example.

[0014] The bead portion 21 may include, for example, a bead core 21a formed in an annular shape and a bead filler 21b arranged on the outer side of the bead core 21a in the tire radial direction D2. For example, the bead core 21a may be formed by stacking rubber-coated bead wires (for example, metal wires), and the bead filler 21b may be formed by tapering hard rubber toward the outer side in the tire radial direction D2.

[0015] The tire 1 may also include, for example, a carcass 24 that is bridged between the pair of bead cores 21a, 21a, and an inner liner 25 that is disposed inside the carcass 24 and faces the internal space of the tire 1 that is filled with air. The carcass 24 and the inner liner 25 may be disposed along the inner circumference of the tire, for example, across the bead portion 21, the sidewall 22, and the tread 23.

[0016] The bead portion 21 may include, for example, a rim strip rubber 21c arranged on the outside of the carcass 24 in the tire axial direction D1 to form an outer surface that contacts the rim. Also, the sidewall 22 may include, for example, a sidewall rubber 22a arranged on the outside of the carcass 24 in the tire axial direction D1 to form an outer surface.

[0017] The tread 23 may include, for example, a tread rubber 23b constituting the tread surface 23a, and a belt 23c disposed between the tread rubber 23b and the carcass 24. The belt 23c may include a plurality of (four in FIG. 1) belt plies 23d. For example, the belt ply 23d may include a plurality of belt cords (e.g., organic fiber or metal) arranged in parallel, and a topping rubber covering the belt cords.

[0018] The carcass 24 may be composed of at least one (two in FIG. 1) carcass ply 24a. For example, the carcass ply 24a may be folded back around the bead core 21a so as to wrap around the bead core 21a. Also, the carcass ply 24a may include, for example, a plurality of ply cords (e.g., organic fibers or metals) arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the tire circumferential direction D3, and a topping rubber covering the ply cords.

[0019] The inner liner 25 may be configured to have an excellent function of preventing gas permeation in order to maintain air pressure. Note that, in the sidewall 22, as in this embodiment, the inner liner 25 may be configured to be in close contact with the inner periphery of the carcass 24, with no other member interposed between the inner liner 25 and the carcass 24.

[0020] Also, for example, with respect to the distance between the carcass ply 24a disposed on the innermost side and the tire inner circumferential surface (the inner circumferential surface of the inner liner 25), the distance of the sidewall 22 may be 90% to 180% of the distance of the tread 23. Also, for example, the distance of the sidewall 22 may be 120% to 160% of the distance of the tread 23.

[0021] The sidewall 22 has a position 22b on its outer surface that is the same as the tire maximum width position (specifically, the position where the distance W1 between the outer sides of the carcass 24 in the tire axial direction D1 is the maximum) in the tire radial direction D2. Hereinafter, this position 22b will be referred to as the tire maximum width position 22b.

[0022] Further, the sidewall 22 has a position 22c on its outer surface that is the same in the tire radial direction D2 as the outer end 21d of the bead filler 21b. Hereinafter, the position 22c is referred to as a bead end position 22c.

[0023] 1 and 2, the tread rubber 23b may include a plurality of main grooves 23e extending continuously in the tire circumferential direction D3 over the entire area of ​​the tread surface 23a in the tire circumferential direction D3. The tread rubber 23b may include a plurality of width grooves 23f extending from a main groove (also called a "shoulder main groove") 23e arranged on the outermost side in the tire axial direction D1 to an outer end in the tire axial direction D1, and a plurality of tread blocks 2 partitioned by the shoulder main grooves 23e and the plurality of width grooves 23f.

[0024] 2, the sidewall rubber 22a may include an annular projection 3 protruding outward in the tire axial direction D1 and a buttress block 4 protruding outward in the tire axial direction D1, as in this embodiment. In addition, the sidewall rubber 22a preferably includes a side block 5 protruding outward in the tire axial direction D1, as in this embodiment.

[0025] The annular protrusion 3 may extend continuously in the tire circumferential direction D3 over the entire area of ​​the sidewall rubber 22a in the tire circumferential direction D3. For example, the dimension of the annular protrusion 3 in the tire radial direction D2 may be constant (including not only the same but also approximately the same with a difference of ±10%; the same applies below) over the tire circumferential direction D3. Also, for example, the protruding height of the annular protrusion 3 may be constant over the tire circumferential direction D3.

[0026] The buttress blocks 4 and the side blocks 5 may each be arranged in multiples along the tire circumferential direction D3. The buttress blocks 4 may be arranged, for example, on the outer side of the annular protrusion 3 in the tire radial direction D2, and the side blocks 5 may be arranged, for example, on the inner side of the annular protrusion 3 in the tire radial direction D2.

[0027] In this embodiment, the inner ends of the buttress blocks 4 in the tire radial direction D2 are connected to the annular protrusion 3, but may be separated from the annular protrusion 3, for example. In addition, the outer ends of the side blocks 5 in the tire radial direction D2 are connected to the annular protrusion 3, but may be separated from the annular protrusion 3, for example.

[0028] The annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 are preferably disposed, for example, outboard of the bead end position 22c (see FIG. 1) in the tire radial direction D2. Furthermore, the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 are further preferably disposed, for example, as in this embodiment, outboard of the tire maximum width position 22b (see FIG. 1) in the tire radial direction D2.

[0029] As a result, the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4 and side blocks 5 can make contact with the ground when the tire 1 sinks due to the weight of the vehicle on snowy roads, muddy ground, sandy ground, etc. and is buried in snow, mud, sand, etc., or when on rocky ground, the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4 and side blocks 5 can make contact with the ground on uneven rocks. In other words, the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4 and side blocks 5 make contact with the ground on rough roads such as snowy roads, muddy ground, sandy ground, rocky ground, etc.

[0030] For example, when the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 shear snow, mud, sand, etc., traction is generated by the resistance of the shear. Also, for example, when the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 come into contact with rocks, traction is generated by the friction of the contact. In this way, the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 can improve traction performance when the vehicle travels on snowy or rough roads.

[0031] In addition, the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 are preferably disposed on the inside of the tread surface 23a in the tire radial direction D2, as in the present embodiment, for example. As a result, the annular projection 3, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 do not come into contact with the ground during normal running on flat roads.

[0032] Here, the positional relationship in the tire circumferential direction D3 of the tread blocks 2, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Note that the positional relationship in the tire circumferential direction D3 of the tread blocks 2, buttress blocks 4, and side blocks 5 is not limited to the following configuration.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 3, for example, the multiple tread blocks 2 include a first tread block 2a, a second tread block 2b adjacent to a first circumferential side D31 of the first tread block 2a, and a third tread block 2c adjacent to a second circumferential side D32 of the first tread block 2a.

[0034] For example, the multiple buttress blocks 4 include a first buttress block 4a, a second buttress block 4b and a third buttress block 4c which are arranged in order from the first buttress block 4a towards the first circumferential side D31, and a fourth buttress block 4d, a fifth buttress block 4e and a sixth buttress block 4f which are arranged in order from the first buttress block 4a towards the second circumferential side D32.

[0035] For example, the first and second buttress blocks 4a, 4b and the fourth and fifth buttress blocks 4d, 4e may each be partitioned by the width groove 23f. Also, for example, the first and fourth buttress blocks 4a, 4d, the second and third buttress blocks 4b, 4c, and the fifth and sixth buttress blocks 4e, 4f may each be partitioned by the partition groove 2d of the tread block 2.

[0036] Also, for example, the multiple side blocks 5 include a first side block 6, a second side block 7 and a third side block 8 arranged in order from the first side block 6 to the first circumferential side D31, and a fourth side block 9, a fifth side block 10 and a sixth side block 11 arranged in order from the first side block 6 to the second circumferential side D32.

[0037] For example, the first side block 6, the first buttress block 4a, and the first tread block 2a may intersect with a common first tire meridian plane S2. Also, for example, the second side block 7, the second buttress block 4b, and the second tread block 2b may intersect with a common second tire meridian plane S3, and the third side block 8, the third buttress block 4c, and the second tread block 2b may intersect with a common third tire meridian plane S4.

[0038] Also, for example, the fourth side block 9, the fourth buttress block 4d, and the first tread block 2a may be configured to intersect with a common fourth tire meridian plane S5. Also, for example, the fifth side block 10, the fifth buttress block 4e, and the third tread block 2c may be configured to intersect with a common fifth tire meridian plane S6, and the sixth side block 11, the sixth buttress block 4f, and the third tread block 2c may be configured to intersect with a common sixth tire meridian plane S7.

[0039] Next, the configuration of the side blocks 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 6. Note that the configuration of the side blocks 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 is not limited to the following configuration.

[0040] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, for example, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the maximum protruding height of the first side block 6 is higher than the maximum protruding height of each of the second side block 7 and the fourth side block 9, the maximum protruding height of the third side block 8 is higher than the maximum protruding height of the second side block 7, and the maximum protruding height of the fifth side block 10 is higher than the maximum protruding height of each of the fourth side block 9 and the sixth side block 11.

[0041] Furthermore, it is even more preferable that, at the same position in the tire radial direction D2, the protruding height of the first side block 6 is higher than the respective protruding heights of the second side block 7 and the fourth side block 9 across the tire radial direction D2, the protruding height of the third side block 8 is higher than the respective protruding height of the second side block 7 across the tire radial direction D2, and the protruding height of the fifth side block 10 is higher than the respective protruding heights of the fourth side block 9 and the sixth side block 11 across the tire radial direction D2.

[0042] This creates a height difference between the side blocks 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 that are adjacent in the tire circumferential direction D3. Therefore, for example, the first side block 6, the third side block 8, and the fifth side block 10 can generate sufficient traction acting in the tire circumferential direction D3, thereby improving the traction performance of the sidewall 22.

[0043] Furthermore, the presence of the second side block 7, the fourth side block 9 and the sixth side block 11 improves the protection performance of the sidewall 22 (e.g., the performance in preventing cuts when hit by stones, rocks, etc.) over the entire length in the tire circumferential direction D3.

[0044] For example, as in this embodiment, the first side block 6 preferably includes a first base portion 6a extending along the tire radial direction D2, and a first inclined portion 6b and a second inclined portion 6c extending from an inner end of the first base portion 6a in the tire radial direction D2. The first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c preferably extend so as to be inclined with respect to the tire radial direction D2.

[0045] As a result, compared to a configuration in which the entire block extends along the tire radial direction D2, the edges 6d of the inclined portions 6b, 6c extend to intersect at an angle with the edge 6d of the first base portion 6a, making it possible to lengthen the edge length of the first side block 6. This allows the first side block 6 to generate sufficient traction.

[0046] Also, for example, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the first inclined portion 6b extends toward the first circumferential side D31 as it moves toward the inside of the tire radial direction D2, and the second inclined portion 6c extends toward the second circumferential side D32 as it moves toward the inside of the tire radial direction D2. As a result, the first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c are inclined toward opposite sides with respect to the tire radial direction D2. Therefore, traction can be reliably generated by the first side block 6 regardless of the rotation direction of the tire 1.

[0047] For example, when the tire 1 rotates to the first circumferential side D31, the first base portion 6a and the first inclined portion 6b can generate traction acting in the tire circumferential direction D3, and the first inclined portion 6b can also generate traction acting in the tire radial direction D2. When the tire 1 rotates to the second circumferential side D32, the first base portion 6a and the second inclined portion 6c can generate traction acting in the tire circumferential direction D3, and the second inclined portion 6c can also generate traction acting in the tire radial direction D2.

[0048] In addition, while the first base portion 6a is disposed so as to intersect with the first tire meridian plane S2, for example, the first inclined portion 6b preferably extends so as to intersect with the second tire meridian plane S3. And, for example, it is further preferable that the first inclined portion 6b extends so as to intersect with the first tire meridian plane S2 and the second tire meridian plane S3.

[0049] As a result, the first inclined portion 6b extends so as to intersect with the tire meridian planes S2, S3 common to the first and second tread blocks 2a, 2b adjacent to each other in the tire circumferential direction D3. Therefore, the length of the first inclined portion 6b can be increased, and therefore the edge length of the first inclined portion 6b can be sufficiently secured.

[0050] In this embodiment, since the maximum protruding height of the first side block 6 is higher than the maximum protruding height of the second side block 7, for example, it is preferable that the inner end of the first inclined portion 6b in the tire radial direction D2 is positioned further inward in the tire radial direction D2 than the inner end of the second side block 7 in the tire radial direction D2.

[0051] As a result, the first base portion 6a and the first inclined portion 6b can generate traction acting in the tire circumferential direction D3, and the first inclined portion 6b can also generate traction acting in the tire radial direction D2. It is preferable that the maximum protruding heights of the first base portion 6a and the first inclined portion 6b are each higher than the maximum protruding height of the second side block 7.

[0052] The second inclined portion 6c preferably extends so as to intersect, for example, with the fourth tire meridian plane S5 and the fifth tire meridian plane S6. As a result, the second inclined portion 6c extends so as to intersect with the tire meridian planes S5 and S6 common to the first and third tread blocks 2a and 2c adjacent to each other in the tire circumferential direction D3. This allows the length of the second inclined portion 6c to be increased, thereby ensuring a sufficient edge length of the second inclined portion 6c.

[0053] In this embodiment, since the maximum protruding height of the first side block 6 is higher than the maximum protruding height of the fourth side block 9, for example, it is preferable that the inner end of the second inclined portion 6c in the tire radial direction D2 is positioned further inward in the tire radial direction D2 than the inner end of the fourth side block 9 in the tire radial direction D2.

[0054] As a result, the first base portion 6a and the second inclined portion 6c can generate traction acting in the tire circumferential direction D3, and the second inclined portion 6c can also generate traction acting in the tire radial direction D2. It is preferable that the maximum protruding heights of the first base portion 6a and the second inclined portion 6c are each higher than the maximum protruding height of the fourth side block 9.

[0055] For example, as in this embodiment, the second side block 7 is preferably configured to include a second base portion 7a extending along the tire radial direction D2 and a third inclined portion 7b extending from an inner end of the second base portion 7a in the tire radial direction D2. As a result, the edge 7c of the third inclined portion 7b extends so as to intersect with the edge 7c of the second base portion 7a at an angle, thereby making it possible to increase the edge length of the second side block 7.

[0056] For example, it is preferable that the third inclined portion 7b extends toward the first circumferential side D31 as it moves inward in the tire radial direction D2, and that the inner end of the third inclined portion 7b in the tire radial direction D2 is disposed more inward in the tire radial direction D2 than the inner end of the third side block 8 in the tire radial direction D2. As a result, for example, the third inclined portion 7b is disposed between the first inclined portion 6b and the third side block 8.

[0057] Moreover, it is preferable that the third inclined portion 7b extends so as to intersect, for example, with the third tire meridian plane S4 that intersects with the third side block 8. This allows the third inclined portion 7b to be disposed not only between the first inclined portion 6b and the third side block 8 but also on the inner side of the third side block 8 in the tire radial direction D2, thereby further improving the protection performance of the sidewall 22.

[0058] An inner end of the fourth side block 9 in the tire radial direction D2 may be disposed, for example, outward in the tire radial direction D2 than the inner ends in the tire radial direction D2 of each of the first side block 6, the second side block 7, and the sixth side block 11. As a result, for example, the dimension of the fourth side block 9 in the tire radial direction D2 is smaller than the dimensions of each of the first side block 6, the second side block 7, and the sixth side block 11 in the tire radial direction D2.

[0059] The inner end of the fifth side block 10 in the tire radial direction D2 may be disposed, for example, outward in the tire radial direction D2 than the inner ends in the tire radial direction D2 of each of the first side block 6, the second side block 7, and the sixth side block 11. As a result, for example, the dimension of the fifth side block 10 in the tire radial direction D2 is smaller than the dimensions of each of the first side block 6, the second side block 7, and the sixth side block 11 in the tire radial direction D2.

[0060] Since the dimensions of the fourth side block 9 and the fifth side block 10 in the tire radial direction D2 are small, the rigidity of the fourth side block 9 and the fifth side block 10 is likely to be low, so that, for example, as in this embodiment, the fourth side block 9 and the fifth side block 10 are preferably connected to each other. This allows the fourth side block 9 and the fifth side block 10 to reinforce each other, thereby preventing the rigidity of the fourth side block 9 and the fifth side block 10 from decreasing.

[0061] For example, as in this embodiment, the sixth side block 11 is preferably configured to include a third base portion 11a extending along the tire radial direction D2 and a fourth inclined portion 11b extending from an inner end of the third base portion 11a in the tire radial direction D2. As a result, the edge 11c of the fourth inclined portion 11b extends so as to intersect with the edge 11c of the third base portion 11a at an angle, thereby making it possible to increase the edge length of the sixth side block 11.

[0062] For example, the fourth inclined portion 11b may extend toward the first circumferential side D31 as it moves toward the inside in the tire radial direction D2. For example, the sixth side block 11 may intersect with the fifth tire meridian plane S6. Therefore, the second inclined portion 6c of the first side block 6, the fifth side block 10, and the fourth inclined portion 11b of the sixth side block 11 intersect with the common fifth tire meridian plane S6.

[0063] In this manner, in this embodiment, the second inclined portion 6c intersects with the tire meridian planes S5 and S6 common to the fourth side block 9, the fifth side block 10, and the sixth side block 11. In this embodiment, the maximum protruding height of the fifth side block 10 is higher than the maximum protruding heights of the fourth side block 9 and the sixth side block 11, and it is preferable to increase the distance between the second inclined portion 6c and the fifth side block 10, for example.

[0064] Specifically, it is preferable that the minimum distance between the second inclined portion 6c and the fifth side block 10 is greater than the minimum distance between the second inclined portion 6c and the fourth side block 9, and is also greater than the minimum distance between the second inclined portion 6c and the sixth side block 11. This allows, for example, the traction performance of the second inclined portion 6c to be effectively exhibited.

[0065] In addition, in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, dashed lines indicate boundaries between each of the base portions 6a, 7a, 11a and each of the inclined portions 6a, 6b, 7b, 11b. For example, the regions of the inclined portions 6a, 6b, 7b, 11b can be regions formed by connecting the ends of the edges 6d, 7c, 11c with straight lines (dashed lines in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4) so ​​that the edges 6d, 7c, 11c are endless annular.

[0066] 4, the first side block 6 may have, for example, a top surface 6e constituting an outer end surface in the tire axial direction D1, a side surface 6f intersecting and connecting with the outer surface of the sidewall 22 and the top surface 6e, and an edge 6d formed at the boundary between the top surface 6e and the side surface 6f. For example, the top surface 6e may have a flat surface 6g formed in a flat shape, and an inclined surface 6h disposed in the second inclined portion 6c and inclined to intersect with the flat surface 6g.

[0067] As shown in Figures 4 to 6, for example, in this embodiment, while the first side block 6 is positioned outward in the tire radial direction D2 from the tire maximum width position 22b (see Figure 1), it is preferable that, for example, the maximum protruding height W3 of the first inclined portion 6b is higher than the maximum protruding height W2 of the first base portion 6a, and the maximum protruding height W4 of the second inclined portion 6c is higher than the maximum protruding height W2 of the first base portion 6a.

[0068] As a result, the protruding heights of the first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c close to the tire maximum width position 22b can be increased in response to the tire 1 being easily struck by a rock, a curb, or the like in the tire axial direction D1 at the tire maximum width position 22b, thereby effectively improving the protection performance of the first side block 6.

[0069] The maximum protruding height W3 of the first inclined portion 6b and the maximum protruding height W4 of the second inclined portion 6c may be the same as in the present embodiment, or may be different from each other. That is, the first side block 6 may have a maximum height position 6i at which the protruding height is maximum in both the first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c as in the present embodiment, or may have the maximum height position 6i in either the first inclined portion 6b or the second inclined portion 6c.

[0070] Also, for example, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the average protruding height of the first inclined portion 6b is higher than the average protruding height of the first base portion 6a. Also, for example, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the average protruding height of the second inclined portion 6c is higher than the average protruding height of the first base portion 6a.

[0071] The protruding height of the side blocks 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and the portions 6a, 6b, 6c may be the height protruding in the normal direction of the profile surface S8 of the sidewall 22. The profile surface S8 of the sidewall 22 may be composed of a plurality of arcs with different radii of curvature in the cross section of the tire meridian planes S2 to S7, for example.

[0072] In the range in the tire radial direction D2 where the side blocks 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 are located, the profile surface S8 of the sidewall 22 may be formed by one circular arc in the cross section of the tire meridian plane S2-S7. The circular arc may be continuous with the circular arc of the profile surface S8 of the portion adjacent to the inner side of the side blocks 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 in the tire radial direction D2. In Figs. 5 and 6, the dashed line indicates the boundary between the first side block 6 and the annular protrusion 3.

[0073] From the above, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the pneumatic tire 1 has a sidewall 22 extending in the tire radial direction D2, the sidewall 22 has a first side block 6 protruding outward in the tire axial direction D1, the first side block 6 has a first base portion 6a extending along the tire radial direction D2, and a first inclined portion 6b and a second inclined portion 6c extending from the inner end of the first base portion 6a in the tire radial direction D2, the first inclined portion 6b extends to a first side D31 in the tire circumferential direction D3 as it moves inward in the tire radial direction D2, and the second inclined portion 6c extends to a second side D32 in the tire circumferential direction D3 as it moves inward in the tire radial direction D2.

[0074] According to this configuration, the first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c extend in the tire circumferential direction D3 as they move inward in the tire radial direction D2, thereby making it possible to lengthen the edge length of the first side block 6. This allows the first side block 6 to generate sufficient traction.

[0075] Moreover, since the first inclined portion 6b extends toward a first side D31 in the tire circumferential direction D3 as it moves toward the inside of the tire radial direction D2, and the second inclined portion 6c extends toward a second side D32 in the tire circumferential direction D3 as it moves toward the inside of the tire radial direction D2, the first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c are inclined on opposite sides with respect to the tire radial direction D2. This makes it possible to reliably generate traction by the first side block 6 regardless of the rotational direction of the tire 1. Therefore, the traction performance of the sidewall 22 can be improved.

[0076] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, in the pneumatic tire 1, the sidewall 22 further includes a second side block 7 protruding outward in the tire axial direction D1, the second side block 7 is adjacent to the first side D31 of the first side block 6 in the tire circumferential direction D3, the first inclined portion 6b and the second side block 7 each intersect with a common tire meridian plane S3, the inner end of the first inclined portion 6b in the tire radial direction D2 is positioned more inward in the tire radial direction D2 than the inner end of the second side block 7 in the tire radial direction D2, and the maximum protruding height of the first side block 6 is higher than the maximum protruding height of the second side block 7.

[0077] According to this configuration, the first inclined portion 6b extends so as to intersect with the second side block 7 on the tire meridian plane S3, which makes it possible to increase the edge length of the first inclined portion 6b. The first inclined portion 6b is disposed on the inner side of the second side block 7 in the tire radial direction D2, and the maximum protruding height of the first side block 6 is higher than the maximum protruding height of the second side block 7.

[0078] As a result, the first base portion 6a and the first inclined portion 6b can generate traction acting in the tire circumferential direction D3, and the first inclined portion 6b can also generate traction acting in the tire radial direction D2. Therefore, the traction performance of the first side block 6 can be exhibited.

[0079] In the pneumatic tire 1 as in the present embodiment, the sidewall 22 further includes a third side block 8 that protrudes outward in the tire axial direction D1, the third side block 8 is adjacent to the second side block 7 on a first side D31 in the tire circumferential direction D3, the third side block 8 has a maximum protruding height higher than a maximum protruding height of the second side block 7, and the second side block 7 includes a second base portion 7a extending along the tire radial direction D2 and a second base portion 7b extending along the second base portion 7b. and a third inclined portion 7b extending from an inner end of the third inclined portion 7a in the tire radial direction D2, the third inclined portion 7b extending toward a first side D31 in the tire circumferential direction D3 as it moves inward in the tire radial direction D2, the inner end of the third inclined portion 7b in the tire radial direction D2 being positioned more inward in the tire radial direction D2 than the inner end of the third side block 8 in the tire radial direction D2, and the third inclined portion 7b and the third side block 8 each intersect with a common tire meridian plane S4.

[0080] According to this configuration, the maximum protruding height of the third side blocks 8 is higher than the maximum protruding height of the second side blocks 7. This enables the third side blocks 8 to generate sufficient traction acting in the tire circumferential direction D3.

[0081] Furthermore, since the third inclined portion 7b of the second side block 7 is disposed on the inside of the third side block 8 in the tire radial direction D2, the second base portion 7a and the third inclined portion 7b of the second side block 7 are disposed between the first side block 6 and the third side block 8. Therefore, the second side block 7 can further improve the protection performance of the sidewall 22.

[0082] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, in the pneumatic tire 1, the sidewall 22 further includes a fourth side block 9 protruding outward in the tire axial direction D1, the fourth side block 9 is adjacent to the second side D32 of the first side block 6 in the tire circumferential direction D3, the second inclined portion 6c and the fourth side block 9 each intersect with a common tire meridian plane S5, the inner end of the second inclined portion 6c in the tire radial direction D2 is positioned more inward in the tire radial direction D2 than the inner end of the fourth side block 9 in the tire radial direction D2, and the maximum protruding height of the first side block 6 is higher than the maximum protruding height of the fourth side block 9.

[0083] With this configuration, the second inclined portion 6c extends so as to intersect with the fourth side block 9 at the tire meridian plane S5, which is common to the second inclined portion 6c, and therefore the edge length of the second inclined portion 6c can be increased. The second inclined portion 6c is disposed on the inner side of the fourth side block 9 in the tire radial direction D2, and the maximum protruding height of the first side block 6 is higher than the maximum protruding height of the fourth side block 9.

[0084] As a result, the first base portion 6a and the second inclined portion 6c can generate traction acting in the tire circumferential direction D3, and the second inclined portion 6c can also generate traction acting in the tire radial direction D2. Therefore, the traction performance of the first side block 6 can be exhibited.

[0085] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, in the pneumatic tire 1, it is preferable that the sidewall 22 has a tire maximum width position 22b where the dimension W1 of the pneumatic tire 1 in the tire axial direction D1 is maximum, the first side block 6 is positioned outward in the tire radial direction D2 from the tire maximum width position 22b, the maximum protruding height W3 of the first inclined portion 6b is higher than the maximum protruding height W2 of the first base portion 6a, and the maximum protruding height W4 of the second inclined portion 6c is higher than the maximum protruding height W2 of the first base portion 6a.

[0086] According to this configuration, since the tire 1 is likely to be hit from the tire axial direction D1 at the tire maximum width position 22b, the maximum protruding heights W3, W4 of the first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c close to the tire maximum width position 22b can be increased, thereby effectively improving the protection performance of the first side block 6.

[0087] Also, as in this embodiment, the pneumatic tire 1 further includes a tread 23 connected to an outer end of the sidewall 22 in the tire radial direction D2, the tread 23 includes a plurality of main grooves 23e extending continuously in the tire circumferential direction D3, the plurality of main grooves 23e including a shoulder main groove 23e disposed on the outermost side in the tire axial direction D1, the tread 23 includes a plurality of width grooves 23f extending from the shoulder main groove 23e to the outer end in the tire axial direction D1, and a plurality of tread blocks 2 partitioned by the shoulder main groove 23e and the plurality of width grooves 23f, It is preferable that the tire tread block 2 includes a first tread block 2a, a second tread block 2b adjacent to a first side D31 of the first tread block 2a in the tire circumferential direction D3, and a third tread block 2c adjacent to the first tread block 2a on a second side D32 of the first tread block 2a in the tire circumferential direction D3, and that the first base portion 6a and the first tread block 2a intersect with a common tire meridian plane S2, the first inclined portion 6b and the second tread block 2b intersect with a common tire meridian plane S3, and the second inclined portion 6c and the third tread block 2c intersect with a common tire meridian plane S6.

[0088] According to this configuration, the first side block 6 is disposed so as to intersect with the tire meridian plane S2, S3, S6 common to the first to third tread blocks 2a, 2b, 2c adjacent in the tire circumferential direction D3. This allows the lengths of the first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c to be long, thereby ensuring a sufficient edge length of the first side block 6.

[0089] The pneumatic tire 1 is not limited to the configuration of the above-described embodiment, and is not limited to the above-described action and effect. Of course, various modifications can be made to the pneumatic tire 1 without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, it is of course possible to arbitrarily select one or more of the configurations, methods, etc. of the various modified examples described below and adopt them in the configurations, methods, etc. of the above-described embodiment.

[0090] (1) In the pneumatic tire 1, for example, there is no particular limitation on the height relationship (higher or lower relationship) of the maximum protruding heights of the first to sixth side blocks 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11. In addition, in the pneumatic tire 1, for example, there is no particular limitation on the positional relationship (inner or outer relationship in the tire radial direction D2) of the inner ends of the first to sixth side blocks 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 in the tire radial direction D2.

[0091] (2) In the pneumatic tire 1 according to the above embodiment, the maximum height position 6i of the first side block 6 is located on both the first inclined portion 6b and the second inclined portion 6c. However, the pneumatic tire 1 is not limited to such a configuration. For example, the maximum height position 6i of the first side block 6 may be located on either the first inclined portion 6b or the second inclined portion 6c. The maximum height position 6i of the first side block 6 may be located on the first base portion 6a.

[0092] (3) In the pneumatic tire 1 according to the above embodiment, the maximum protruding height W3 of the first inclined portion 6b is higher than the maximum protruding height W2 of the first base portion 6a, and the maximum protruding height W4 of the second inclined portion 6c is higher than the maximum protruding height W2 of the first base portion 6a. However, the pneumatic tire 1 is not limited to such a configuration.

[0093] For example, the maximum protruding height W3 of the first inclined portion 6b may be lower than the maximum protruding height W2 of the first base portion 6a. Also, for example, the maximum protruding height W4 of the second inclined portion 6c may be lower than the maximum protruding height W2 of the first base portion 6a.

[0094] (4) In the pneumatic tire 1 according to the above embodiment, the side blocks 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 are arranged inwardly of the annular protrusion 3 in the tire radial direction D2. However, the pneumatic tire 1 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the side blocks 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 may be arranged outwardly of the annular protrusion 3 in the tire radial direction D2. For example, the sidewall 22 may not include at least one of the annular protrusion 3 and the buttress block 4. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] Reference Signs List 1...pneumatic tire, 2, 2a, 2b, 2c...tread block, 2d...partition groove, 3...annular projection, 4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f...buttress block, 5...side block, 6...first side block, 6a...first base portion, 6b...first inclined portion, 6c...second inclined portion, 6d...edge, 6e...top surface, 6f...side surface, 6g...flat surface, 6h...inclined surface, 6i...maximum height position, 7...second side block, 7a...second base portion, 7b...third inclined portion, 7c...edge, 8...third side block, 9...fourth side block, 10...fifth side block, 11...sixth side block, 11a...third base portion, 11b...fourth inclined portion, 11c...edge , 21... bead portion, 21a... bead core, 21b... bead filler, 21c... rim strip rubber, 22... sidewall, 22a... sidewall rubber, 22b... tire maximum width position, 22c... bead end position, 23... tread, 23a... tread surface, 23b... tread rubber, 23c... belt, 23d... belt ply, 23e... main groove, 23f... width groove, 24... carcass, 24a... carcass ply, 25... inner liner, D1... tire axial direction, D2... tire radial direction, D3... tire circumferential direction, D31... first circumferential side, D32... second circumferential side, S1... tire equatorial plane, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7... tire meridian plane, S8... profile surface

Claims

1. A tire having a sidewall extending in a radial direction, The sidewall includes a first side block protruding outward in the tire axial direction, The first side block is A first base portion extending along the tire radial direction; a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion extending from an inner end of the first base portion in the tire radial direction, the first inclined portion extends toward a first side in a tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction, The second inclined portion extends toward a second side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction. The first inclined portion is a first edge extending toward a first side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction; a second edge that is spaced from the first edge and extends toward the first side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward the inside in the tire radial direction, The second inclined portion is a third edge extending toward the second side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward the inside in the tire radial direction; a fourth edge that is spaced from the third edge and extends toward the second side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward the inside in the tire radial direction, The sidewall further includes a second side block protruding outward in the tire axial direction, The second side block is adjacent to the first side block on a first side in the tire circumferential direction, the first inclined portion and the second side block each intersect with a common tire meridian plane, an inner end of the first inclined portion in the tire radial direction is disposed on the inner side in the tire radial direction than an inner end of the second side block in the tire radial direction, A pneumatic tire, wherein a maximum protruding height of the first side block is greater than a maximum protruding height of the second side block.

2. A tire having a sidewall extending in a radial direction, The sidewall includes a first side block protruding outward in the tire axial direction, The first side block is A first base portion extending along the tire radial direction; a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion extending from an inner end of the first base portion in the tire radial direction, the first inclined portion extends toward a first side in a tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction, The second inclined portion extends toward a second side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction. The sidewall further includes a second side block protruding outward in the tire axial direction, The second side block is adjacent to the first side block on a first side in the tire circumferential direction, the first inclined portion and the second side block each intersect with a common tire meridian plane, an inner end of the first inclined portion in the tire radial direction is disposed on the inner side in the tire radial direction than an inner end of the second side block in the tire radial direction, The maximum protruding height of the first side block is higher than the maximum protruding height of the second side block, The sidewall further includes a third side block protruding axially outward, The third side block is adjacent to the second side block on a first side in the tire circumferential direction, The maximum protruding height of the third side block is higher than the maximum protruding height of the second side block, The second side block is A second base portion extending along the tire radial direction; a third inclined portion extending from an inner end of the second base portion in the tire radial direction, the third inclined portion extends toward the first side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward the inside in the tire radial direction, an inner end of the third inclined portion in the tire radial direction is disposed more inward in the tire radial direction than an inner end of the third side block in the tire radial direction, the third inclined portion and the third side block each intersect with a common tire meridian plane.

3. A tire having a sidewall extending in a radial direction, The sidewall includes a first side block protruding outward in the tire axial direction, The first side block is A first base portion extending along the tire radial direction; a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion extending from an inner end of the first base portion in the tire radial direction, the first inclined portion extends toward a first side in a tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction, The second inclined portion extends toward a second side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction. the sidewall has a maximum tire width position where a dimension of the pneumatic tire in the tire axial direction is maximum, The first side block is disposed outward in the tire radial direction from the tire maximum width position, A maximum protruding height of the first inclined portion is higher than a maximum protruding height of the first base portion, A pneumatic tire, wherein a maximum protruding height of the second inclined portion is greater than a maximum protruding height of the first base portion.

4. A tire having a sidewall extending in a radial direction, The sidewall includes a first side block protruding outward in the tire axial direction, The first side block is A first base portion extending along the tire radial direction; a first inclined portion and a second inclined portion extending from an inner end of the first base portion in the tire radial direction, the first inclined portion extends toward a first side in a tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction, The second inclined portion extends toward a second side in the tire circumferential direction as it moves toward an inner side in the tire radial direction. The tire further includes a tread connected to an outer end of the sidewall in the tire radial direction, The tread includes a plurality of main grooves extending continuously in a circumferential direction of the tire, the plurality of main grooves includes a shoulder main groove disposed axially outermost in the tire; The tread includes a plurality of width grooves extending from the shoulder main groove to an axially outer end of the tire, and a plurality of tread blocks defined by the shoulder main groove and the plurality of width grooves, the plurality of tread blocks include a first tread block, a second tread block adjacent to a first side of the first tread block in the tire circumferential direction, and a third tread block adjacent to a second side of the first tread block in the tire circumferential direction, the first base portion and the first tread block intersect with a common tire meridian plane, the first inclined portion and the second tread block intersect with a common tire meridian plane, The second inclined portion and the third tread block intersect with a common tire meridian plane.

5. The sidewall further includes a fourth side block protruding axially outward, The fourth side block is adjacent to the first side block on a second side in the tire circumferential direction, the second inclined portion and the fourth side block each intersect with a common tire meridian plane, an inner end of the second inclined portion in the tire radial direction is disposed more inward in the tire radial direction than an inner end of the fourth side block in the tire radial direction, The pneumatic tire according to claim 1 , wherein a maximum protruding height of the first side block is greater than a maximum protruding height of the fourth side block.

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