tire air filling device

Abstract

A tire air filling device 1, according to one embodiment, comprises: a cylinder 11 that has a first opening 11r that communicates with a tire; and a weight 12 that has an air flow through-hole 12b through which air to be supplied to the tire flows, and that receives a centrifugal force and moves in an axial direction of the cylinder 11 to supply the air to the tire from the first opening 11r. The tire air filling device 1 also comprises: a weight-use airtight member 13 that is interposed between the weight 12 and an inner surface 11b of the cylinder 11; and a weight-use spring 16 that biases the weight 12 toward the opposite side of the tire. The cylinder 11 comprises a cap 52 that has a second opening 11c on the side opposite the first opening 11r, and that can be attached to / detached from the second opening 11c.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tire air filling device that fills the inside of a tire with air. This application claims priority to Japanese Application No. 2021-148835 filed on September 13, 2021, and incorporates by reference all of the contents of said Japanese application. [Background technology]

[0002] Tire air filling devices that fill air inside tires of automobiles and the like have been known for some time. JP 2008-308081 A describes an air pressure adjusting device attached to the spokes of a wheel. A portion of the air pressure adjusting device protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the wheel rim into the interior space of the tire. The air pressure adjusting device includes a cylinder that screws into the spoke and a piston that is reciprocally disposed inside the cylinder.

[0003] A first umbrella valve that opens and closes the air flow path in the cylinder is attached to the end of the cylinder facing the tire. The first umbrella valve functions as a check valve that prevents air from flowing back from the interior space of the tire into the interior of the cylinder. When the air pressure inside the cylinder is greater than the air pressure inside the tire, the first umbrella valve opens the flow path, allowing air to flow from the interior of the cylinder to the interior space of the tire. When the air pressure inside the cylinder is lower than the air pressure inside the tire, the first umbrella valve prevents the flow of air.

[0004] The piston divides the internal space of the cylinder into a first chamber and a second chamber, with the second chamber communicating with the internal space of the tire. A recess is formed in the end of the piston exposed to the first chamber, and a partition wall is provided in the recess. This partition wall defines a third chamber inside the piston that is separated from the first chamber. A second umbrella valve is attached to this partition wall, which opens and closes the piston's through-hole, which is the air flow path from the first chamber to the third chamber. A coil spring is arranged between the piston and the bottom surface of the internal space of the cylinder, urging the piston toward the first chamber.

[0005] In this tire pressure adjusting device, when the wheel rotation speed increases as the vehicle travels, centrifugal force acts on the piston. This centrifugal force causes the piston to move against the biasing force of the coil spring, reducing the volume of the second chamber. As the second chamber contracts, the air pressure in the second chamber increases. When the air pressure in the tire's interior is lower than the reference air pressure, the first umbrella valve opens, allowing air from the second chamber to be injected into the tire's interior.

[0006] When the vehicle decelerates and the wheel rotation speed slows, the force of the coil spring causes the piston to move in the direction that expands the volume of the second chamber. When the pressure in the second chamber decreases and becomes lower than the air pressure in the tire's internal space, the first umbrella valve closes. As the piston moves, if the pressure in the second chamber becomes lower than the pressure in the first chamber, the second umbrella valve opens, allowing air to enter from the first chamber to the second chamber. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-308081 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] In the above-described tire pressure regulator, the second chamber inside the cylinder contracts as the piston moves due to centrifugal force, increasing the air pressure in the second chamber. When the air pressure in the tire's internal space is lower than the reference air pressure, the first umbrella valve opens, and air from the second chamber is injected into the tire's internal space. This allows the tire to be replenished with air using centrifugal force generated while the vehicle is moving. However, in addition to replenishing the tire with air while the vehicle is moving, there are cases where it is necessary to supply air to the tire even when the vehicle is stopped. In such cases, it may be necessary to efficiently supply air to the tire even when the vehicle is stopped.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a tire air filling device that can fill a tire with air while the vehicle is moving and can also efficiently supply air to the tire while the vehicle is stopped. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The tire air filling device according to the present disclosure is (1) a tire air filling device mounted on a wheel attached to a tire, which compresses air to fill the inside of the tire. The tire air filling device includes a cylinder having a first opening communicating with the tire, and a weight provided inside the cylinder, having an air flow hole through which air supplied to the tire passes, and moving in the axial direction of the cylinder under centrifugal force to supply air to the tire through the first opening. The tire air filling device includes an airtight member for the weight interposed between the weight and the inner surface of the cylinder, and a weight spring for biasing the weight toward the opposite side of the tire. The cylinder has a second opening on the opposite side to the first opening, and includes a cap that is detachable from the second opening.

[0011] In this tire air filling device, the cylinder has a first opening that communicates with the inside of the tire, and a weight is provided inside the cylinder that supplies air to the inside of the tire through the first opening. The weight moves in the axial direction of the cylinder due to centrifugal force, allowing air to be filled into the tire while driving. This tire air filling device has a second opening facing the opposite side from the first opening, and a cap is detachable on the second opening. By opening the cap and leaving the second opening open when the vehicle is stopped, air can be forcibly supplied to the tire through the second opening. When driving, the cap is closed and the weight fills the tire with air due to centrifugal force, and when driving is stopped, the cap can be removed and air can be directly supplied to the tire through the second opening.

[0012] (2) In the above (1), the tire air filling device may include a plurality of airtight weight members. The plurality of airtight weight members may be arranged along the axial direction. When the plurality of airtight weight members are cut along a plane extending along the axial direction, the cross section may be U-shaped with an open end. The plurality of airtight weight members may be arranged so that the open end faces the first opening. When an O-ring is used as the airtight weight member, high dimensional accuracy is required depending on the inner diameter of the cylinder or the outer diameter of the weight, etc. In contrast, when an airtight weight member having a U-shaped cross section when cut along a plane extending along the axial direction is used, the dimensional accuracy requirement can be relaxed. The open ends of the U-shape of the plurality of airtight weight members face the first opening. Therefore, sliding resistance when the weight returns by the biasing force of the weight spring can be reduced, making it possible to make it difficult for air pressed into the tire to leak.

[0013] (3) In the above (1) or (2), the tire air filling device may include a check valve provided inside the weight to prevent air from flowing back from the weight to the opposite side of the tire. The check valve may have a slide member that slides axially in the air flow hole. The specific gravity of the slide member may be smaller than that of the weight. In this case, when the centrifugal force increases and the weight moves toward the first opening (tire side), and the air pressure on the first opening side of the cylinder increases, the movement of the slide member can be suppressed, preventing the check valve from opening unintentionally. Therefore, the weight can more efficiently send air toward the tire side.

[0014] (4) In any of (1) to (3) above, the tire air filling device may include a tilting member attached to the check valve and the cylinder with the cylinder tilted relative to the check valve, which prevents air from flowing back from the tire into the cylinder. In this case, the tilting member interposed between the check valve and the cylinder allows the orientation of the cylinder relative to the check valve to be changed. A tilting member with a tilting angle matching the shape of the wheel can be attached between the cylinder and the check valve. By preparing multiple types of tilting members with different tilting angles and selecting a tilting member that matches the shape of the wheel, the tire air filling device can be appropriately attached to various wheels. This increases the versatility of the tire air filling device.

[0015] (5) In the above (4), at least one of the tilting member and the cylinder may have a weak portion that is weaker than the check valve and breaks when subjected to an external force. For example, if the wheel hits a curb or the like while driving and the check valve attached to the wheel breaks, air may leak from the tire, making the vehicle unable to travel. In contrast, as described above, if the tilting member or the cylinder interposed between the check valve and the cylinder has a weak portion, the weak portion will break even when the wheel is subjected to an impact force. Breaking of the weak portion provided in at least one of the tilting member and the cylinder can prevent damage to the check valve, thereby more reliably preventing air from leaking from the tire when the wheel is impacted.

[0016] (6) In (4) above, the tire air filling device may include a check valve provided inside the weight to prevent backflow of air from the weight to the opposite side of the tire. The check valve may have a sliding member that slides axially in the air flow hole and a check valve spring that urges the sliding member toward the opposite side of the tire. The check valve may have a valve seat having an air hole, a valve body that slides in the air hole, and a check valve spring that urges the valve body toward the opposite side of the tire. The spring constant of the check valve spring may be greater than the spring constant of the check valve spring. In this case, the spring constant of the check valve spring being greater than the spring constant of the check valve spring more reliably suppresses air leakage from the tire at the check valve.

[0017] (7) In (4) above, the tire air filling device may include a check valve provided inside the weight to prevent backflow of air from the weight to the opposite side of the tire. The check valve may have a sliding member that slides axially in the air flow hole and a check valve spring that urges the sliding member toward the opposite side of the tire. The check valve may have a valve seat having an air hole, a valve body that slides in the air hole, and a check valve spring that urges the valve body toward the opposite side of the tire. The set load of the check valve spring may be greater than the set load of the check valve spring. In this case, the set load of the check valve spring being greater than the set load of the check valve spring more reliably prevents air from leaking from the tire at the check valve.

[0018] (8) In any of the above (1) to (7), the tire air filling device may include a check valve provided inside the weight to prevent air from flowing back from the weight to the opposite side of the tire. The weight may have a housing that houses the check valve, and at least a portion of the housing may be recessed into the weight spring. In this case, at least a portion of the housing of the check valve is recessed into the weight spring. By recessing the housing of the weight into the weight spring, it is possible to increase the spatial change inside the cylinder that accompanies the movement of the weight. Since the pressure generated inside the cylinder can be increased without making the cylinder larger, it is possible to efficiently supply air to the tire and contribute to making the parts more compact. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to replenish air into tires while the vehicle is moving, and to efficiently supply air to tires while the vehicle is stopped. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view schematically showing a tire air filling device, a tire, and a wheel according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the tire air filling device taken along line AA in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a tire air filling device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a tire air filling device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the cap is removed from the tire air filling device according to the embodiment to open the second opening. FIG. [Figure 6] 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a tire air filling device to which a tilting member different from the tilting member of the tire air filling device of FIG. 4 is attached. [Figure 7] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a broken state of a tire air filling device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a tire air filling device according to a further modified example. [Figure 9] 9 is a view of the tire air filling device of FIG. 8, seen from a different direction than that of FIG. 8. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the tire air filling device of FIG. 8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a tire air filling device according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted as appropriate. The drawings may be partially simplified or exaggerated for ease of understanding, and the dimensional proportions and the like are not limited to those shown in the drawings.

[0022] 1 shows an exemplary wheel 100 and tire 110 in which a tire air filling device 1 according to this embodiment is incorporated. For example, a plurality of wheels 100 and a plurality of tires 110 are provided on an automobile. Each wheel 100 and each tire 110 rotates as the automobile travels.

[0023] The wheel 100 has a plurality of spokes 101. The plurality of spokes 101 extend radially from a central portion 102 of the wheel 100. A rim 103 of the wheel 100 is provided radially outward of the plurality of spokes 101. A tire 110 is attached to the rim 103.

[0024] The tire air filling device 1 is attached to the two spokes 101 so as to straddle the two spokes 101. The tire air filling device 1 is provided, for example, between the center portion 102 of the wheel 100 and the rim 103. The tire air filling device 1 is subjected to centrifugal force in the radial direction of the tire 110 as the automobile travels and as the wheel 100 and tire 110 rotate.

[0025] The tire air filling device 1 generates compressed air from the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the tire 110, and fills the inside of the tire 110 with the compressed air. The wheel 100 may be equipped with one tire air filling device 1 or multiple tire air filling devices 1. A tire air filling device 1 may be provided for each of the multiple tires 110. FIG. 1 shows an example in which one tire 110 is fitted with one tire air filling device 1.

[0026] The tire air filling device 1 comprises a device main body 2 that generates compressed air to be supplied to a tire 110, and a mounting member 3 that mounts the device main body 2 to a wheel 100. The device main body 2 comprises a cylinder 11, a check valve 20, and a tilting member 15. The cylinder 11 generates compressed air therein, and the check valve 20 prevents air from flowing back from the tire 110 to the cylinder 11. The tilting member 15 connects the cylinder 11 and the check valve 20 to each other.

[0027] For example, the check valve 20 is attached to the wheel 100 (the rim 103 as an example). The internal space of the check valve 20 is in communication with the internal space of the tire 110. Therefore, compressed air generated inside the cylinder 11 is supplied to the internal space of the tire 110 through the tilting member 15 and the check valve 20. In this embodiment, the device main body 2 includes the tilting member 15 attached to the check valve 20 and the cylinder 11 with the check valve 20 tilted relative to the cylinder 11.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the tire air filling device 1 of FIG. 1 taken along line AA. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an example mounting member 3 includes a clamp 4 and a plurality of bolts 5. The clamp 4 includes, for example, a first clamp portion 4b and a second clamp portion 4c that clamp the device main body 2. For example, the device main body 2 is attached to the wheel 100 so as to extend along a first direction D1, which is the radial direction of the tire 110. The clamp 4 extends along a second direction D2 that intersects with the first direction D1. The second direction D2 corresponds to the direction in which a pair of spokes 101 are aligned.

[0029] For example, the length of the first clamping portion 4b in the second direction D2 is longer than the length of the second clamping portion 4c in the second direction D2. For example, the first clamping portion 4b is attached to the spoke 101 and the second clamping portion 4c. The first clamping portion 4b has a pair of end portions 4d aligned along the second direction D2 and a central portion 4f located between the pair of end portions 4d.

[0030] The first clamping portion 4b and the second clamping portion 4c are overlapped, for example, along a third direction D3 that intersects both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The third direction D3 corresponds to the thickness direction of the first clamping portion 4b and the second clamping portion 4c. When the second clamping portion 4c is overlapped on the first clamping portion 4b, the pair of end portions 4d protrude in the second direction D2 beyond the second clamping portion 4c. An insertion hole 4g ​​is formed in each of the pair of end portions 4d, through which a bolt 5 that is screwed into the spoke 101 is inserted.

[0031] The central portion 4f is a portion where the second clamp portion 4c is overlapped. The central portion 4f has a protruding portion 4h that protrudes from the end portion 4d and a recessed portion 4j that is recessed at the center of the protruding portion 4h in the second direction D2. A screw hole 4k is formed in the protruding portion 4h, into which the bolt 5 inserted into the second clamp portion 4c is screwed. The recessed portion 4j is a portion where the device main body 2 fits, and is shaped, for example, to follow the outer periphery of the device main body 2. As an example, the recessed portion 4j is arc-shaped.

[0032] The second clamping portion 4c has a pair of end portions 4p aligned along the second direction D2 and a central portion 4q located between the pair of end portions 4p. Each of the pair of end portions 4p has an insertion hole 4r formed therein through which a bolt 5 is inserted to be screwed into the screw hole 4k of the first clamping portion 4b. The central portion 4q faces the central portion 4f of the first clamping portion 4b in the third direction D3.

[0033] The central portion 4q curves away from the recessed portion 4j as it moves toward the center in the second direction D2. The central portion 4q, together with the recessed portion 4j, forms a space through which the device body 2 passes. In this space, for example, a cushioning material 6 is disposed between the clamp 4 and the device body 2. As an example, multiple cushioning materials 6 are interposed between the clamp 4 and the device body 2. The above describes examples of the configurations of the mounting member 3 and the clamp 4. However, the configurations of the mounting member 3 and the clamp 4 are not limited to the above examples and can be modified as appropriate.

[0034] Next, the configuration of the tire air filling device 1 (device main body 2) will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the tire air filling device 1 includes a cylinder 11, a weight 12, and an airtight member for the weight 13. The cylinder 11 is cylindrical. The weight 12 moves inside the cylinder 11 in a first direction D1 corresponding to the axial direction of the cylinder 11. The airtight member for the weight 13 is interposed between the inner surface 11b of the cylinder 11 and the weight 12. The cylinder 11 has a first opening 11r located on the tire 110 side (check valve 20 side) and a second opening 11c located on the opposite side from the tire 110. As an example, grease may be applied between the airtight member for the weight 13 and the inner surface 11b.

[0035] The cylinder 11 has, for example, a flange 11d on which the mounting member 3 is placed. With the mounting member 3 placed on the flange 11d, the mounting member 3 is attached to the pair of spokes 101. This allows the tire air filling device 1 to be stably attached to the pair of spokes 101. As an example, the weight 12 has a cylindrical shape. The width W1 of the weight 12 is, for example, not less than 5 mm and not more than 15 mm.

[0036] By setting the width W1 to 15 mm or less, it is possible to effectively increase the air pressure caused by the movement of the weight 12 in the first direction D1. For example, the width W1 of the weight 12 (the length in the second direction D2) is smaller than the width of the spoke 101. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, for example, the weight 12 has a cylindrical shape. In this case, the width W1 corresponds to the diameter of the weight 12.

[0037] The length L1 of the weight 12 in the first direction D1 is, for example, 20 mm or more and 45 mm or less. By setting the length L1 to 45 mm or less, a large amount of movement of the weight 12 can be ensured inside the cylinder 11. However, the values ​​of the width W1 and the length L1 are not limited to the above example.

[0038] The weight 12 and the weight airtight member 13 divide the internal region of the cylinder 11 into a first region A1 on the tire 110 side and a second region A2 on the opposite side of the tire 110. The weight 12 and the weight airtight member 13 reciprocate inside the cylinder 11 along a first direction D1 that corresponds to the radial direction of the wheel 100.

[0039] The cylinder 11 has, for example, a cylindrical shape. The cylinder 11 has a second opening 11c that allows air to flow into the second area A2 of the cylinder 11. A lid member 14 is attached to the second opening 11c via a cap 52. The second opening 11c and the lid member 14 are provided on the opposite side of the tire 110 from the weight 12 (the lower side in FIG. 3 and the left side in FIG. 4). The lid member 14 is, for example, a filter that allows gas such as air to pass through but does not allow liquids or solids to pass through.

[0040] As an example, the cover member 14 has a sealing portion 14b that seals the second opening 11c, a protruding portion 14c that protrudes from the sealing portion 14b in the first direction D1, and an engaging portion 14d located at the end of the protruding portion 14c. The sealing portion 14b allows gas to pass from the outside of the cylinder 11 to the inside of the cylinder 11. The sealing portion 14b blocks liquids and solids from entering the inside of the cylinder 11. The sealing portion 14b has, for example, a disk shape.

[0041] The protruding portion 14c is, for example, an annular portion that protrudes in the first direction D1 from the radially inner side of the sealing portion 14b. The engaging portion 14d has a convex portion that protrudes radially outward from the end of the protruding portion 14c. The convex portion has a tapered surface 14g that is inclined so that its diameter decreases as it moves away from the sealing portion 14b.

[0042] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the tire air filling device 1 is provided with a cap 52 that is detachably attached to the second opening 11c of the cylinder 11. Figure 5 shows the cylinder 11 with the cap 52 removed. In the tire air filling device 1, the lid member 14 is attached to the cylinder 11 via the cap 52. The cylinder 11 has a tubular portion 11x that protrudes toward the lid member 14, and a recessed portion 11y that is located radially outward of the tubular portion 11x and recessed in the first direction D1. A male thread 11z is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the tubular portion 11x. An O-ring 11v is fitted into the recessed portion 11y.

[0043] The cap 52 is cylindrical. The cap 52 has an engaging portion 52b into which the lid member 14 is fitted and a threaded portion 52c that is screwed onto the cylinder 11. The engaging portion 52b has a protrusion 52h that protrudes radially inward of the cap 52. The protrusion 52h has a tapered surface 52k that slopes in the protruding direction of the protrusion 52h as it moves away from the end surface 52j of the cap 52. The lid member 14 engages with the cap 52 by having the tapered surface 14g ride over the tapered surface 52k.

[0044] The threaded portion 52c is a female screw that screws into the male screw 11z of the tubular portion 11x of the cylinder 11. The male screw 11z is screwed into the threaded portion 52c, thereby attaching the cap 52 to the cylinder 11. The cap 52 is detachable from the cylinder 11. By removing the cap 52, air can be forcibly introduced into the tire 110 from the second opening 11c through the cylinder 11, the tilting member 15, and the inside of the check valve 20.

[0045] Air flows into the weight 12 through the cover member 14 and the second opening 11c of the cylinder 11. The weight 12 has, for example, a cylindrical shape. An annular recess 12g is formed on the outer circumferential surface 12f of the weight 12. An airtight member 13 for the weight fits into the annular recess 12g.

[0046] The tire air filling device 1 includes a plurality of airtight weight members 13. The airtight weight members 13 are aligned along the first direction D1. When the airtight weight members 13 are cut along a plane aligned along the first direction D1, the cross section has a U-shape with an open end 13b. In this disclosure, the term "U-shape" refers not only to a strict U-shape but also to shapes slightly different from a U-shape, such as a V-shape or a C-shape. As an example, the airtight weight members 13 are lip seals. The airtight weight members 13 are arranged so that the open end 13b faces the first opening 11r of the cylinder 11. The sliding resistance when the weight 12 returns due to the biasing force of the weight spring 16 is smaller than the sliding resistance when the weight 12 moves toward the tire 110.

[0047] The weight 12 is formed with an air flow hole 12b that directs the incoming air to the opposite side of the second opening 11c. For example, the air flow hole 12b includes a first space 12c located on the second opening 11c side and a second space 12d extending from the first space 12c toward the tire 110. As an example, the second space 12d has a larger diameter than the first space 12c. The second space 12d is defined by a tapered surface 12r that gradually increases in diameter as it moves away from the first space 12c, and an inner circumferential surface 12s that is interposed between the tapered surface 12r and the first region A1.

[0048] The weight 12 is made of, for example, a material containing tungsten. The weight 12 may be made of tungsten or a tungsten alloy. The weight 12 is, for example, a high-specific-gravity material having a specific gravity greater than that of the cylinder 11. As an example, the specific gravity of the weight 12 is 15 or more. In this case, the weight 12 can be made thinner in diameter and have a larger mass. Therefore, the weight 12 can be sufficiently reciprocated in the first direction D1 due to centrifugal force, and air can be more sufficiently supplied to the tire 110.

[0049] The tire air filling device 1 includes a weight spring 16 arranged to extend from the weight 12 toward the tire 110. The weight spring 16 biases the weight 12 toward the opposite side of the tire 110. The weight 12 has a housing portion 12h that houses a check valve 30 (described later) and a large diameter portion 12j that has a diameter larger than that of the housing portion 12h.

[0050] At least a portion of the storage portion 12h is inserted into the weight spring 16. The storage portion 12h and the large diameter portion 12j are, for example, cylindrical. The outer diameter of the storage portion 12h is smaller than the inner diameter of the cylinder 11. A gap S is formed between the outer surface of the storage portion 12h and the inner surface 11b of the cylinder 11. An annular recess 12g is formed on the outer surface of the large diameter portion 12j. The weight airtight member 13 is inserted into the annular recess 12g.

[0051] The housing portion 12h has an annular protrusion 12p that protrudes radially outward from the weight 12 at a location away from the large diameter portion 12j. An annular recess 12m is formed between the annular protrusion 12p and the large diameter portion 12j. An airtight weight member 13 fits into the annular recess 12m. A weight spring 16 is disposed between the annular protrusion 12p and the inclined member 15.

[0052] The tire air filling device 1 includes a check valve 30 that prevents air from flowing back from the weight 12 to the opposite side of the tire 110. The check valve 30 includes a slide member 31, a check valve spring 32, a support portion 33, and a check valve airtight member 34. The slide member 31 slides, for example, in the air flow hole 12b in a first direction D1. The check valve spring 32 biases the slide member 31 toward the opposite side of the tire 110. The support portion 33 supports the end of the check valve spring 32 in the first direction D1. The check valve airtight member 34 is interposed between the slide member 31 and the inner surface of the air flow hole 12b.

[0053] The specific gravity of the slide member 31 is smaller than the specific gravity of the weight 12, for example. The slide member 31 is made of aluminum, for example. The slide member 31 slides, for example, in the air circulation hole 12b (second space 12d) of the weight 12 along the first direction D1. The slide member 31 includes an end face 31b facing the first space 12c, an inclined surface 31c extending from the end face 31b along the tapered surface 12r, and a shaft portion 31d extending from the inclined surface 31c toward the support portion 33 and having a portion inserted into the support portion 33.

[0054] An annular recess 31f is formed on the inclined surface 31c of the slide member 31. An airtight member 34 for the check valve is fitted into the annular recess 31f. The airtight member 34 for the check valve is, for example, an O-ring. The airtight member 34 for the check valve is made of, for example, EPDM. Grease may be applied between the airtight member 34 for the check valve and the inner surface of the air circulation hole 12b.

[0055] The check valve spring 32 is made of, for example, SUS (Steel Use Stainless). The check valve spring 32 is provided in the second space portion 12d. The check valve spring 32 is disposed radially outside the shaft portion 31d of the slide member 31, and extends in the first direction D1 between the slide member 31 and the support portion 33. The support portion 33 is made of, for example, aluminum. The support portion 33 is a bearing for the shaft portion 31d of the slide member 31.

[0056] The slide member 31 and the check valve airtight member 34 are movable in a first direction D1 relative to the support portion 33. When the slide member 31 and the check valve airtight member 34 move to the opposite side of the tire 110 relative to the weight 12, the check valve airtight member 34 comes into contact with the tapered surface 12r and closes the air vent hole 12b. On the other hand, when the slide member 31 and the check valve airtight member 34 move toward the tire 110 relative to the weight 12, the air vent hole 12b is opened.

[0057] Next, the check valve 20 will be described. The check valve 20 is attached to, for example, an air hole formed in the wheel 100, and air is supplied from the check valve 20 to the internal space of the tire 110 through the air hole. For example, the shape of some of the components of the check valve 20 is the same as the shape of the components included in the weight 12. This allows for the use of common components, which contributes to reducing the cost of the components.

[0058] The check valve 20 includes a valve seat portion 21 having an air hole 21h through which air passes from the first region A1 of the cylinder 11 and the air flow path 15b of the tilting member 15, and a valve body portion 22 that slides along the extension direction D4 of the air hole 21h while being passed through the air hole 21h. The check valve 20 includes a check valve spring 23 that biases the valve body portion 22 toward the opposite side of the tire 110 (diagonally downward left in FIG. 4 ), and a support portion 24 that supports the end of the check valve spring 23 on the tire 110 side.

[0059] The valve seat portion 21 is made of, for example, aluminum. The valve seat portion 21 has, for example, a first attachment portion 21b that is attached to the inclined member 15 and a second attachment portion 21c that is attached to the wheel 100. For example, the shape of the valve seat portion 21 is similar to the shape of the weight 12. The valve seat portion 21 has a first air flow path 21d located inside the first attachment portion 21b and a second air flow path 21f that communicates with the first air flow path 21d and that houses the valve body portion 22, the check valve spring 23, and the support portion 24.

[0060] The valve seat portion 21 is attached to the tilting member 15, for example, by screwing the first attachment portion 21b into the tilting member 15. For example, an O-ring 25 for ensuring airtightness is provided between the valve seat portion 21 and the tilting member 15. The second attachment portion 21c is provided with, for example, two nuts 21g and a seal member 21j. The second attachment portion 21c is attached to the wheel 100 via the two nuts 21g and the seal member 21j.

[0061] The valve body 22 includes a slide member 22b that slides in the extension direction D4 while being passed through the air hole 21h, and an airtight member 22c attached to the slide member 22b. At least one of the shape and material of the slide member 22b is the same as at least one of the shape and material of the slide member 31 described above.

[0062] For example, the material of the check valve spring 23 is the same as the material of the check valve spring 32. The spring constant of the check valve spring 23 is greater than the spring constant of the check valve spring 32. For example, the set load of the check valve spring 23 is greater than the set load of the check valve spring 32. For example, the load (holding force) at which the check valve 20 begins to move is greater than the load at which the check valve 30 begins to move. The support portion 24 has the same shape as the support portion 33 of the check valve 30, for example.

[0063] The support portion 24 is a bearing for the slide member 22b. The space on the opposite side of the support portion 24 from the check valve spring 23 communicates with the internal space of the tire 110. The slide member 22b and the airtight member 22c are movable in an extension direction D4 relative to the support portion 24. When the slide member 22b and the airtight member 22c move to the side opposite the tire 110, the air hole 21h of the valve seat portion 21 is closed. On the other hand, when the slide member 22b and the airtight member 22c move toward the tire 110, the air hole 21h is opened.

[0064] Next, the tilting member 15 will be described. The tilting member 15 is a component for tilting the extension direction D4 of the check valve 20 relative to the first direction D1, which is the extension direction of the cylinder 11. The tilting member 15 includes, for example, a first portion 15c to which the cylinder 11 is attached, a second portion 15d to which the check valve 20 is attached, and a fragile portion 15f located between the first portion 15c and the second portion 15d.

[0065] The first portion 15c and the second portion 15d are, for example, cylindrical. The axial direction of the first portion 15c coincides with the first direction D1. The axial direction of the second portion 15d coincides with the extension direction D4. The tilting member 15 is a component for tilting the extension direction of the check valve 20 relative to the cylinder 11. For example, multiple types of tilting members 15 are prepared.

[0066] 4 and 6, the tilt angles θ of the axial direction of the second portion 15d relative to the axial direction of the first portion 15c are different among the various types of tilt members 15. By preparing various types of tilt members 15 with different tilt angles θ in advance (for example, before the tire air filling device 1 is attached to the wheel 100), the tire air filling device 1 can be attached to various wheels 100 at an appropriate angle. This contributes to improving the versatility of the tire air filling device 1.

[0067] The tilting member 15 is a connecting member that connects the cylinder 11 and the check valve 20 to each other. For example, the cylinder 11 is screwed into the first portion 15c, and the check valve 20 is screwed into the second portion 15d. The air flow path 15b of the tilting member 15 communicates with the first region A1 of the cylinder 11 and the air hole 21h of the check valve 20. An O-ring 15h is arranged between the cylinder 11 and the tilting member 15 to ensure airtightness.

[0068] 4 and 7, the fragile portion 15f is a portion that breaks when an external force is applied to the tire air filling device 1. The fragile portion 15f is provided, for example, between a first recess 15j, which is a portion that bends from the first portion 15c to the second portion 15d, and a second recess 15k formed at the end of the first portion 15c opposite to the cylinder 11.

[0069] When an external force is applied, the weak portion 15f of the tilting member 15 breaks preferentially, thereby avoiding damage to the check valve 20 that would otherwise be caused by the application of the external force. Note that the cylinder 11 may have a weak portion instead of the weak portion 15f of the tilting member 15. In this case, the cylinder 11 breaks preferentially when an external force is applied, thereby avoiding damage to the check valve 20, as described above.

[0070] Next, an example of the operation of the tire air filling device 1 will be described with reference to Figure 4. For example, when the automobile to which the tire air filling device 1 is attached is stopped, the biasing force of the weight spring 16 positions the weight 12 on the opposite side of the tire 110 (on the left side in Figure 4).

[0071] At this time, the biasing force of the check valve spring 32 positions the slide member 31 inside the weight 12 on the opposite side of the tire 110, and the check valve airtight member 34 blocks the air flow hole 12b. The biasing force of the check valve spring 23 positions the valve body portion 22 of the check valve 20 on the opposite side of the tire 110 (diagonally downward left in FIG. 4), and the valve body portion 22 blocks the air hole 21h.

[0072] When the automobile accelerates, centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the wheel 100 moves the weight 12 toward the tire 110 (to the right in FIG. 4 ) against the biasing force of the weight spring 16. At this time, as the weight 12 moves toward the tire 110, air enters the second region A2 of the cylinder 11 from the cover member 14. As the weight 12 moves toward the tire 110, the air pressure in the first region A1 increases, and air flows from the first region A1 through the air flow path 15b of the inclined member 15 to the check valve 20, causing the valve body portion 22 to open the air hole 21h. When the air hole 21h is opened, the air that has flowed into the check valve 20 is injected into the inside of the tire 110.

[0073] For example, when the automobile is traveling at 40 km / h, the weight 12 is positioned on the tire 110 side, and the weight spring 16 is maintained in a compressed state. When the air pressure of the tire 110 is lower than the air pressure of the first region A1, the valve body portion 22 opens the air hole 21h, and air is supplied from the first region A1 to the inside of the tire 110 through the air hole 21h. On the other hand, when the air pressure of the tire 110 is equal to or higher than the air pressure of the first region A1, the valve body portion 22 closes the air hole 21h, and air is not supplied to the tire 110.

[0074] When the vehicle decelerates, the weight 12 moves to the opposite side of the tire 110 due to the biasing force of the weight spring 16. At this time, the slide member 31 inside the weight 12 moves toward the tire 110 relative to the weight 12 against the biasing force of the check valve spring 32, and the check valve airtight member 34 opens the air vent hole 12b. This opening of the air vent hole 12b allows air in the second region A2 of the cylinder 11 to enter the first region A1 through the air vent hole 12b. When the vehicle stops, the system returns to the initial state shown in FIG. 4.

[0075] Next, the effects obtained from the tire air replenishment device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. In the tire air replenishment device 1, the cylinder 11 has a first opening 11r that communicates with the inside of the tire 110. A weight 12 is provided inside the cylinder 11 to supply air to the inside of the tire 110 through the first opening 11r. The weight 12 moves in the axial direction of the cylinder 11 (first direction D1) due to centrifugal force, thereby allowing air to be replenished into the tire 110 while the vehicle is running.

[0076] The tire air filling device 1 has a second opening 11c facing the opposite side to the first opening 11r. A cap 52 is detachably attached to the second opening 11c. When the vehicle is stopped, the cap 52 is opened to open the second opening 11c, allowing air to be forcibly supplied to the tire 110 through the second opening 11c. When the vehicle is moving, the cap 52 is closed and the weight 12 fills the tire 110 with air by centrifugal force, and when the vehicle is stopped, the cap 52 is removed to allow air to be directly supplied to the tire 110 through the second opening 11c.

[0077] In this embodiment, the tire air filling device 1 includes a plurality of airtight weight members 13. The airtight weight members 13 are arranged along the axial direction of the cylinder 11. When the airtight weight members 13 are cut along a plane extending along the axial direction, the cross section has a U-shape with an open end 13b. The airtight weight members 13 are arranged so that the open end 13b faces the first opening 11r. When an O-ring is used as the airtight member, high dimensional accuracy is required depending on the inner diameter of the cylinder 11 or the outer diameter of the weight 12, etc. In contrast, when an airtight weight member 13 having a U-shaped cross section when cut along a plane extending along the axial direction is used, the dimensional accuracy requirement can be relaxed.

[0078] The U-shaped opening ends 13b of the multiple weight airtight members 13 are directed toward the first opening 11r. Therefore, it is possible to increase the sliding resistance when the weight 12 moves toward the first opening 11r compared to when the weight 12 moves to the opposite side of the first opening 11r. This reduces the sliding resistance when the weight 12 returns due to the biasing force of the weight spring 16, making it possible to make it difficult for air pressed into the tire 110 to leak.

[0079] In this embodiment, the tire air filling device 1 is provided with a check valve 30 that is provided inside the weight 12 and prevents air from flowing back from the weight 12 to the opposite side of the tire 110. The check valve 30 has a slide member 31 that slides axially in the air flow hole 12b. The specific gravity of the slide member 31 is smaller than that of the weight 12. As a result, centrifugal force increases, causing the weight 12 to move toward the first opening 11r (the tire 110 side). When the air pressure on the first opening 11r side of the cylinder 11 increases, the movement of the slide member 31 can be suppressed, preventing the check valve 30 from opening unintentionally. Therefore, the weight 12 can more efficiently send air toward the tire 110 side.

[0080] In this embodiment, the tire air filling device 1 includes a tilting member 15 that is attached to the check valve 20 and the cylinder 11 with the check valve 20 tilted relative to the cylinder 11. By interposing the tilting member 15 between the check valve 20 and the cylinder 11, the orientation of the check valve 20 relative to the cylinder 11 can be changed.

[0081] 4 and 6, it is possible to attach a tilting member 15 having a tilt angle θ that matches the shape of the wheel 100 between the cylinder 11 and the check valve 20. By preparing multiple types of tilting members 15 in advance and selecting and attaching the tilting member 15 that matches the shape of the wheel 100, it is possible to appropriately attach the tire air filling device 1 to various wheels 100. This increases the versatility of the tire air filling device 1.

[0082] In this embodiment, at least one of the tilting member 15 and the cylinder 11 has a weak portion (e.g., weak portion 15f) that is weaker than the check valve 20 and breaks due to an external force. For example, if the wheel 100 collides with a curb or the like while traveling and the check valve 20 attached to the wheel 100 breaks, air may leak from the tire 110, making the vehicle unable to travel. In contrast, as described above, if the tilting member 15 interposed between the check valve 20 and the cylinder 11 or the cylinder 11 has a weak portion, the weak portion will break even if the wheel 100 receives an impact force. Therefore, breakage of the check valve 20 can be suppressed by the breakage of the weak portion provided in at least one of the tilting member 15 and the cylinder 11. This more reliably suppresses air from leaking from the tire 110 due to an impact force on the wheel 100.

[0083] In this embodiment, the check valve 30 has a slide member 31 that slides axially in the air flow hole 12b, and a check valve spring 32 that biases the slide member 31. The check valve 20 has a valve seat portion 21 that has an air hole 21h, a valve body portion 22 that slides in the air hole 21h, and a check valve spring 23 that biases the valve body portion 22 toward the opposite side of the tire 110. The spring constant of the check valve spring 23 is greater than the spring constant of the check valve spring 32. Because the spring constant of the check valve spring 23 is greater than the spring constant of the check valve spring 32, leakage of air from the tire 110 at the check valve 20 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0084] In this embodiment, the set load of the check valve spring 23 is greater than the set load of the check valve spring 32. Because the set load of the check valve spring 23 is greater than the set load of the check valve spring 32, air leakage from the tire 110 at the check valve 20 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0085] In this embodiment, the weight 12 has a housing portion 12h that houses the check valve 30, and at least a portion of the housing portion 12h fits into the weight spring 16. Therefore, at least a portion of the housing portion 12h of the check valve 30 fits into the weight spring 16. By having the housing portion 12h of the weight 12 fit into the weight spring 16, it is possible to increase the spatial change inside the cylinder 11 that accompanies movement of the weight 12. Since the pressure generated inside the cylinder 11 can be increased without making the cylinder 11 larger, it is possible to efficiently supply air to the tire 110 and contribute to making the parts more compact.

[0086] In the above-described embodiment, the tire air filling device 1 is described as having a check valve 20. However, the tire air filling device may not have a check valve. For example, it may be a tire air filling device that is attached to a check valve that is pre-installed on the wheel 100 of the tire 110. An example of this will be described below with reference to FIGS. 8, 9, and 10.

[0087] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a tire air filling device 61 attached to a wheel 100. FIG. 9 is a view showing the tire air filling device 61 as seen from a different direction than that shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the tire air filling device 61. In FIGS. 8 to 10, some parts are simplified for ease of understanding. As shown in FIGS. 8 to 10, the tire air filling device 61 includes a cylinder 11 having a first opening 11r communicating with the tire 110, and a weight 12 that is provided inside the cylinder 11 and moves in the axial direction of the cylinder 11 under centrifugal force to supply air to the tire 110. The tire air filling device 61 further includes an airtight weight member 13 and a weight spring 16 that are interposed between the weight 12 and the inner surface of the cylinder 11.

[0088] The wheel 100 has a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) unit 105. The TPMS unit 105 has, for example, a pressure sensor that monitors the air pressure of the tire 110 and a check valve. For example, a tire air replenishment device 61 is connected to the TPMS unit 105 via a tube 63. The tube 63 has a first connection portion 63b that is connected to the tire air replenishment device 61, a second connection portion 63c that is connected to the TPMS unit 105, and a tube main body 63d that extends from the first connection portion 63b to the second connection portion 63c. For example, the tube main body 63d is made of a flexible material. In this case, the tube main body 63d can be flexibly deformed.

[0089] The tire air filling device 61 has a cap assembly 62 attached to the first opening 11r of the cylinder 11. The cylinder 11 is connected to a tube 63 via the cap assembly 62. The cap assembly 62 has an air flow path 62d that communicates with the internal space of the tube 63 and the internal space of the TPMS unit 105. Air from the cylinder 11 is supplied to the tire 110 via the air flow path 62d, the internal space of the tube 63, and the internal space of the TPMS unit 105.

[0090] The cap assembly 62 has, for example, a first cap portion 62c attached to the cylinder 11 and a second cap portion 62f attached to the first cap portion 62c. The air flow path 62d includes the internal space of the first cap portion 62c and the internal space of the second cap portion 62f. The internal space of the cylinder 11 communicates with the internal space of the tube 63 via the internal spaces of the first cap portion 62c and the second cap portion 62f. The second cap portion 62f is provided, for example, at a position adjacent to the cylinder 11. For example, in the tire air filling device 61, the cylinder 11 and the second cap portion 62f extend from the first cap portion 62c in the same direction (to the right in FIG. 10). This enables the tire air filling device 61 to be made compact.

[0091] The internal space of the first cap portion 62c extends from the cylinder 11 in a direction intersecting the internal space of the cylinder 11 (upward in FIG. 10), and is then bent in the same direction as the internal space of the cylinder 11 (rightward in FIG. 10). For example, the cap assembly 62 has a small cap 62b that is detachable from the first cap portion 62c. The small cap 62b opens the air flow path 62d when removed from the first cap portion 62c. When the small cap 62b is removed and the air flow path 62d is open, it is possible to inflate the tire 110 at a gas station through the portion where the small cap 62b is removed, for example.

[0092] As described above, the tire air filling device 61 according to the modified example does not have a check valve. The tire air filling device 61 is provided with a weight 12 that supplies air to the inside of the tire 110 via the cap assembly 62, the tube 63, and the TPMS unit 105. The weight 12 moves in the axial direction of the cylinder 11 by centrifugal force, thereby filling the tire 110 with air. Therefore, the tire air filling device 61 can achieve the same effects as the tire air filling device 1 and the like described above.

[0093] The above describes embodiments and modifications of the tire air filling device according to the present disclosure. However, the tire air filling device according to the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments or modifications, and may be modified or applied to other things within the scope of the claims. In other words, the shape, size, number, material, and arrangement of each part of the tire air filling device are not limited to the above-described examples, and may be modified as appropriate.

[0094] For example, in the above description, the weight 12 is made of tungsten or a tungsten alloy. However, the material of the weight may contain, for example, gold, and is not limited to tungsten or a tungsten alloy and can be changed as appropriate. The same applies to materials other than the weight, such as the slide member. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1... tire air filling device, 2... device body, 3... mounting member, 4... clamp, 4b... first clamp portion, 4c... second clamp portion, 4d... end portion, 4f... center portion, 4g... insertion hole, 4h... protrusion portion, 4j... recess portion, 4k... screw hole, 4p... end portion, 4q... center portion, 4r... insertion hole, 5... bolt, 11... cylinder, 11b... inner surface, 11c... second opening, 11d... flange portion, 11r... first opening, 11v... O-ring, 11x... cylindrical portion, 11y... recess portion, 11z... male screw, 12... weight, 12b... air vent, 12c... first space portion, 12d... second space portion, 1 2f...outer surface, 12g...annular recess, 12h...accommodating portion, 12j...large diameter portion, 12m...annular recess, 12p...annular protrusion, 12r...tapered surface, 12s...inner surface, 13...airtight member for weight, 13b...opening end, 14...lid member, 14b...sealing portion, 14c...protruding portion, 14d...engaging portion, 14g...tapered surface, 15...inclined member, 15b...air flow path, 15c...first portion, 15d...second portion, 15f...weak portion, 15h...O-ring, 15j...first recess, 15k...second recess, 16...weight spring, 20...check valve, 21...valve seat portion, 2 1b...first mounting portion, 21c...second mounting portion, 21d...first air flow path, 21f...second air flow path, 21g...nut, 21h...air hole, 22...valve body portion, 22b...sliding member, 22c...airtight member, 23...check valve spring, 24...support portion, 25...O-ring, 30...check valve, 31...sliding member, 31b...end face, 31c...inclined surface, 31d...shaft portion, 31f...annular recess, 32...check valve spring, 33...support portion, 34...airtight member for check valve, 52...cap, 52b...engaging portion, 52c...screwed portion, 52h...convex portion, 52j...end surface, 52k...tapered surface, 61...tire air filling device, 62...cap assembly, 62b...small cap, 62c...first cap portion, 62d...air flow path, 62f...second cap portion, 63...tube, 63b...first connecting portion, 63c...second connecting portion, 63d...tube body, 100...wheel, 101...spoke, 102...center portion, 103...rim, 110...tire, A1...first region, A2...second region, D1...first direction, D2...second direction, D3...third direction, D4...extension direction, S...gap, W1...width, θ...inclination angle.

Claims

1. A tire air filling device that is provided on a wheel attached to a tire and compresses air to fill the inside of the tire, a cylinder having a first opening communicating with the tire; a weight provided inside the cylinder, having an air flow hole through which air to be supplied to the tire passes, and moving in the axial direction of the cylinder under centrifugal force to supply air to the tire from the first opening; an airtight member for the weight interposed between the weight and the inner surface of the cylinder; a weight spring that biases the weight toward the opposite side of the tire; Equipped with The cylinder has a second opening opposite the first opening, a cap that is detachable from the second opening; The tire air filling device includes a device main body that generates compressed air to be supplied to the tire, The device body includes a check valve provided outside the cylinder to prevent air from flowing back from the tire to the cylinder. Tire air filling device.

2. A plurality of the weight airtight members are provided, The plurality of weight airtight members are arranged along the axial direction, When the plurality of airtight members for weights are cut along a plane extending along the axial direction, the cross section has a U-shape having an open end, The plurality of weight airtight members are arranged such that the opening ends face the first opening side. The tire air filling device according to claim 1 .

3. a check valve provided inside the weight to prevent air from flowing backward from the weight to the opposite side of the tire; the check valve has a slide member that slides in the axial direction in the air flow hole, The specific gravity of the slide member is smaller than the specific gravity of the weight. The tire air filling device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a tilting member attached to the check valve and the cylinder in a state in which the cylinder is tilted relative to the check valve; The tire air filling device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. At least one of the tilting member and the cylinder has a weak portion that is weaker than the check valve and breaks when subjected to an external force. The tire air filling device according to claim 4.

6. a check valve provided inside the weight to prevent air from flowing backward from the weight to the opposite side of the tire; the check valve includes a slide member that slides in the axial direction in the air flow hole, and a check valve spring that biases the slide member toward the opposite side of the tire, the check valve includes a valve seat portion having an air hole, a valve body portion that slides in the air hole, and a check valve spring that biases the valve body portion toward the opposite side of the tire, The spring constant of the check valve spring is greater than the spring constant of the check valve spring. The tire air filling device according to claim 4.

7. a check valve provided inside the weight to prevent air from flowing backward from the weight to the opposite side of the tire; the check valve includes a slide member that slides in the axial direction in the air flow hole, and a check valve spring that biases the slide member toward the opposite side of the tire, the check valve includes a valve seat portion having an air hole, a valve body portion that slides in the air hole, and a check valve spring that biases the valve body portion toward the opposite side of the tire, The set load of the check valve spring is greater than the set load of the check valve spring. The tire air filling device according to claim 4.

8. a check valve provided inside the weight to prevent air from flowing backward from the weight to the opposite side of the tire; the weight has a housing portion that houses the check valve, At least a part of the housing portion is inserted into the weight spring. The tire air filling device according to claim 1 or 2.

Images