Pump for use with a wheel rim of an inflatable tire

Abstract

A pump for use with a wheel rim of an inflatable tire, comprising a rotary-linear conversion mechanism and a reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism. The rotary-linear conversion mechanism comprises at least two pivotally connected rocker arms disposed opposite each other within an inflatable tire, coordinated to move in opposite rotational directions. The reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism comprises at least one cylinder fluidly coupled to the inflatable tire and the ambient air, and at least one piston slidably received in the at least one cylinder. As the tire deflates during wheel rotation, the convex surfaces of at least two rocker arms engage with the inside of the inflatable tire, initiating an intake stroke that draws ambient air into the at least one cylinder. A biasing element then triggers a compression stroke, causing the piston to compress the air and force it through an outlet pathway into the inflatable tire, re-inflating the tire. The piston features a stepped configuration with a proximal and distal plate separated by a gap, sealed by a ring during the intake stroke and relieved during the compression stroke to allow air to flow into the inflatable tire.

Description

Ref-1403-02-8790PUMP FOR USE WITH A WHEEU RIM OF AN INFEATABEE TIRETECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to vehicle systems, and more specifically, to an automated tire inflation system designed to be installed inside the inflatable tire and mounted on the vehicle's rim. This system functions to automatically reinflate the tire when the internal air pressure drops, thereby maintaining optimal tire pressure and enhancing vehicle safety and performance.BACKGROUND

[0002] Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for vehicle safety and performance. Under-inflated tires can lead to various issues, including reduced fuel efficiency, increased tire wear, and a higher risk of tire blowouts, which can compromise the safety of the vehicle and its occupants.

[0003] Several systems have been developed to address the problem of maintaining optimal tire pressure. These include manual tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) that alert drivers when tire pressure is low and automated systems that attempt to inflate the tires when needed. However, many existing automated systems are external, requiring significant modification to the vehicle or reliance on external air sources, which can be cumbersome and less reliable.

[0004] The need for a more efficient and user-friendly solution has led to the development of systems that can be installed within the tire itself. These internal systems are designed to automatically reinflate the tire when the pressure drops below a specified threshold. By doing so, they ensure that the tires remain at optimal pressure levels, enhancing vehicle safety, improving fuel efficiency, and extending tire life.Ref-1403-02-8790

[0005] Using an internal automated tire inflation system eliminates the need for external equipment and reduces the frequency of manual checks, offering a more reliable solution for tire maintenance. Despite the advancements in this area, there remains a need for improved systems that are easier to install, more reliable, and capable of maintaining optimal tire pressure with minimal intervention from the vehicle owner.SUMMARY

[0006] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of one or more exemplary embodiments, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. The proper scope of one or more exemplary embodiments may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.

[0007] In one general aspect, the present disclosure may describe an exemplary pump for use with an exemplary wheel rim of an exemplary inflatable tire. In one or more exemplary embodiments, an exemplary pump may comprise an exemplary rotary-linear conversion mechanism and an exemplary reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rotary-linear conversion mechanism may comprise at least two exemplary rocker arms that are pivotally connected to an exemplary frame which may be fixedly mounted to an exemplary wheel rim and disposed inside an exemplary inflatable tire. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least two exemplary rocker arms may be positioned opposite each other inside an exemplary inflatable tire such that each respective axis of rotation of respective exemplary rocker arms is parallel to an axis of rotation of an exemplary wheel rim. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective exemplary rocker arm of at least twoRef-1403-02-8790 exemplary rocker arms may comprise an exemplary first section, and an exemplary second section.

[0008] In one or more exemplary embodiments, an exemplary first section may comprise an exemplary curved convex surface and an exemplary curved concave surface. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first surface may extend between an exemplary first free end and an exemplary pivot point of an exemplary corresponding rocker arm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second section may extend between an exemplary pivot point and an exemplary second end of an exemplary corresponding rocker arm. In an exemplary embodiment, respective curved concave surfaces of exemplary first sections of at least two exemplary rocker arms may face one another.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rotary-linear conversion mechanism may further comprise at least one exemplary coordinating element engaging the at least two exemplary rocker arms to one another. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one exemplary coordinating element may be configured to simultaneously rotate the at least two exemplary rocker arms in opposite rotational directions about their respective exemplary pivot points. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary rotary-linear conversion mechanism may further comprise at least one exemplary biasing element engaging with either one of at least two exemplary rocker arms.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism may comprise at least one exemplary cylinder which may be in fluid communication with an exemplary inflatable tire and ambient air. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one exemplary cylinder may comprise an exemplary first end, an exemplary second end opposite an exemplary first end, and at least one exemplary inlet which may be configured to introduce ambient air into the at least one exemplary cylinder. In anRef-1403-02-8790 exemplary embodiment, an exemplary reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism may further comprise at least one exemplary piston connected to either one of the at least two exemplary rocker arms via an exemplary connecting rod, such that as a corresponding exemplary rocker arm rotates about a corresponding exemplary pivot point, at least one exemplary piston may slidably move back and forth within the at least one exemplary cylinder along an exemplary longitudinal axis of an exemplary cylinder.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one exemplary piston may comprise an exemplary proximal plate disposed coaxially with the at least one exemplary cylinder and an exemplary distal plate which may be connected coaxially with an exemplary proximal plate. In an exemplary embodiment, a gap may be defined between an exemplary proximal plate and an exemplary distal plate. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary distal plate may comprise at least one exemplary outlet pathway which may be configured to conduct the ambient air accumulated in the at least one exemplary cylinder into an exemplary inflatable tire. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one piston may further comprise an exemplary ring having a diameter larger than respective diameters of an exemplary proximal plate and an exemplary distal plate. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary ring may be disposed within the gap. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary ring may move between an exemplary proximal plate and an exemplary distal plate as at least one exemplary piston slidably moves within the at least one exemplary cylinder such that an exemplary ring may either seal or unseal an exemplary outlet pathway of an exemplary distal plate.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary pump for use with an exemplary inflatable tire may comprise an exemplary rotary-linear conversion mechanism wherein the width of one of the exemplary rocker arms may be narrower than the other one, allowing an exemplary rocker arm with a narrower width to nest within an exemplary rocker arm with aRef-1403-02-8790 wider width during the rotation of the at least two exemplary rocker arms about their exemplary respective pivot points.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary pump may comprise at least one exemplary cylinder that may be fixedly mounted on an exemplary rim and centrally disposed within an exemplary frame between the at least two exemplary rocker arms, such that the at least two exemplary rocker arms may be disposed on opposite sides of the at least one exemplary cylinder.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary pump may further comprise an exemplary one-way air valve that may be disposed concentrically within the at least one exemplary inlet, fluidly coupling the at least one exemplary cylinder to ambient air, allowing ambient air to enter the at least one exemplary cylinder while blocking air from escaping the at least one exemplary cylinder back into the ambient air.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary pump may further comprise at least two exemplary rods that may be aligned with and pass through an exemplary respective pivot point.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one exemplary biasing element of an exemplary pump may be an exemplary double torsion spring wrapped around an exemplary respective rod, wherein an exemplary first end of an exemplary biasing element may be engaged with an exemplary frame, and an exemplary second end of an exemplary biasing element may be engaged with an exemplary first section of corresponding exemplary rocker arm of the at least two exemplary rocker arms.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary coordinating element of an exemplary pump may be an exemplary arm. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary arm may comprise two exemplary ends, one exemplary end may be engaged with an exemplary firstRef-1403-02-8790 section of either one of the at least two exemplary rocker arms and another end may be engaged with an exemplary second section of another exemplary rocker arm of the at least two exemplary rocker arms.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary connecting rod of an exemplary pump may comprise a first end engaged with an exemplary distal plate of the at least one exemplary piston, and an exemplary second hollow rod end may be configured to surround an exemplary rod, which may pass through an exemplary second end of an exemplary corresponding rocker arm of the at least two exemplary rocker arms.

[0019] This Summary may introduce a number of concepts in a simplified format; the concepts are further disclosed within the “Detailed Description” section. This Summary is not intended to configure essential / key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present disclosure, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example in association with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of inflatable tire with two pumps installed on opposite sides of rim, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;Ref-1403-02-8790

[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic view of a configuration where multiple pumps may be mounted around the circumference of rim, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates a cutaway view of inflatable tire and rim with protective frame mounted on rim to shield pumps, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic view of pump, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 5A illustrates a schematic side view of rotary-linear conversion mechanism of pump, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 5B illustrates a schematic side view of reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism of pump, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 6A illustrates a longitudinal section of pump at the beginning of intake stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 6B illustrates a longitudinal section of pump at the beginning of compression stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 7A illustrates a longitudinal section of pump with two pistons at the beginning of intake stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 7B illustrates a longitudinal section of pump with two pistons at the beginning of compression stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 8A illustrates a rear view of piston, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.Ref-1403-02-8790

[0032] FIG. 8B illustrates a schematic view of a piston during the intake stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 8C illustrates a schematic view of a piston during the compression stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings related to the exemplary embodiments. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and / or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0035] The following detailed description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary implementations will be plain to one skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0036] Disclosed herein relates to exemplary embodiments of a pump designed for use with an exemplary wheel rim of an exemplary inflatable tire. An exemplary inflatable tire mayRef-1403-02-8790 be exposed to ambient air and may rotate on an exemplary surface. An exemplary pump may utilize an exemplary rotary-linear conversion mechanism, which converts rotational motion generated by the movement of an exemplary wheel into linear motion that drives an exemplary reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism. An exemplary reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism may allow air to be drawn from the ambient environment and compressed into an exemplary inflatable tire to maintain proper inflation pressure. An exemplary pump may be integrated into an exemplary rim and operate passively, driven by the rotation of an exemplary wheel as an exemplary vehicle moves.

[0037] An exemplary rotary-linear conversion mechanism of an exemplary pump may comprise at least two exemplary rocker arms, each pivotally mounted to an exemplary frame. An exemplary frame may be fixedly attached to an exemplary rim and positioned inside an exemplary inflatable tire. The at least wo exemplary rocker arms may be arranged opposite each other inside an exemplary inflatable tire such that the axis of rotation for each exemplary rocker arm is parallel to the axis of rotation of an exemplary rim. Each exemplary rocker arm may comprise an exemplary first section, which has both an exemplary curved convex surface and an exemplary curved concave surface, and an exemplary second section that extends between pivot point of an exemplary rocker arm and an exemplary second end. The concave surfaces of at least two exemplary rocker arms face each other, and two exemplary rocker arms may be mechanically linked by at least one exemplary coordinating element. An exemplary coordinating element may cause two exemplary rocker arms to rotate simultaneously in opposite directions about their respective exemplary pivot points. Additionally, an exemplary biasing element, such as spring, may be used to engage with either of an at least two exemplary rocker arms to provide a restoring force, ensuring that two exemplary rocker arms return to their initial positions after each motion cycle.Ref-1403-02-8790

[0038] An exemplary pump may also comprise an exemplary reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism, which may feature at least one exemplary cylinder that is in fluid communication with both an exemplary inflatable tire and the ambient air. An exemplary cylinder may have an exemplary inlet that allows air to enter from the outside environment, and an exemplary piston that moves back and forth within an exemplary cylinder. An exemplary piston, connected to one of two exemplary rocker arms via an exemplary connecting rod, may slide within an exemplary cylinder along its longitudinal axis, compressing the ambient air and transferring it into an exemplary inflatable tire. An exemplary piston itself may comprise an exemplary proximal plate and an exemplary distal plate, with an exemplary ring positioned between the two exemplary plates. As an exemplary piston moves within an exemplary cylinder, an exemplary ring may either seal or unseal at least one exemplary outlet pathway in an exemplary distal plate, controlling the flow of compressed air into an exemplary inflatable tire.

[0039] The design of an exemplary pump may also incorporate features to ensure smooth operation and efficient air transfer. For instance, the inlet of at least one exemplary cylinder may comprise an exemplary one-way valve, allowing ambient air to enter at least one exemplary cylinder but preventing the compressed air from escaping back into the environment. Furthermore, an exemplary pump may feature two exemplary rods, each aligned with the pivot points of two exemplary rocker arms, which may further stabilize the motion of at least two exemplary rocker arms. The two exemplary rocker arms may be designed with different widths, allowing them to nest within each other during rotation.

[0040] An exemplary biasing element may be a double torsion spring, which may be wrapped around one of the at least two exemplary rods. The ends of the spring may engage with both an exemplary frame and an exemplary first section of an exemplary rocker arm,Ref-1403-02-8790 providing a force that restores an exemplary rocker arm to its original position after it rotates. Similarly, an exemplary coordinating element linking the at least two rocker arms may be an arm that engages with both sections of at least two exemplary rocker arms, ensuring their synchronized movement.

[0041] Referring to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view 100 of inflatable tire 104 with two pumps 110 (e.g. 110 a, 110 b) installed on opposite sides of rim 106, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The installation of two pumps 110 (e.g. 110a, 110b) on rim 106 may serve to maintain balance of wheel 102, ensuring that rim106 may remain stable. As illustrated in FIG. 1, in an exemplary embodiment, under conditions where inflatable tire 104 may become underinflated while moving on surface 108, a portion107 of inflatable tire 104 in contact with surface 108 may experience an external force. This force, applied from surface 108 to inflatable tire 104, may activate pump 110 in an active state. One of two pumps 110 b may be configured to engage with an inner layer of inflatable tire 104 in an active state, while other pump 110 a may remain in a passive, non-active state on an opposite side, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic view 200 of a configuration where multiple pumps 110 may be mounted around a circumference of rim 106, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In this arrangement, placement of multiple pumps 110 may accelerate inflation process by reducing delay between successive pump 110 engagements, thus optimizing inflation time, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. An additional advantage of using multiple pumps 110 around an entire surface of rim 106 may include structural uniformity and even distribution of forces applied to inflatable tire 104 across an entire circumference. This uniform distributionRef-1403-02-8790 may prevent the concentration of forces from surface 108 on individual pumps 110, thereby reducing the likelihood of damage to pumps 110.

[0043] FIG. 3 illustrates a cutaway view 300 of inflatable tire 104 and rim 106 with protective frame 112 mounted on a rim 106 to shield pumps 110, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In this configuration, a protective frame 112 may be mounted on rim 106 to shield pumps 110 and may prevent potential damage to inflatable tire 104 caused by sharp edges 109 of rim 106. In an exemplary embodiment, protective frame 112 may include two semicircular sections that may secure pumps 110, as shown in FIG. 3, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, some portions 105 of protective frame 112 may be hollowed out to lighten protective frame 112. In an exemplary embodiment, protective frame 112 may be constructed as a single piece. In an exemplary embodiment, protective frame 112 may be designed separately for each pump 110, and therefore, protective frame 112 may be provided for each pump 110 installed on rim 106.

[0044] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic view 400 of pump 110, in accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, pump 110 may comprise a rotary-linear conversion mechanism may be designed to convert rotational movement into linear motion. FIG. 5A illustrates a schematic side view 500 of rotary-linear conversion mechanism of pump 110, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In further detail with respect to FIG. 5A, rotary-linear conversion mechanism may be fixedly attached to rim 106 using various fasteners 139 such as bolts, rivets, or adhesive.

[0045] As depicted in FIG. 5A, in an exemplary embodiment, rotary-linear conversion mechanism may comprise at least two rocker arms 114 pivotally connected to frame 116. In further detail with respect to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5A, each of at least two rocker arms 114 mayRef-1403-02-8790 feature first section 118 with curved convex surface 124 and curved concave surface 126 and second section 120 may be extend between pivot point 122 and second end. In an exemplary embodiment, the width of one of rocker arms 114 could be smaller than that of the other (Vk2< J / F-L), enabling narrower rocker arm 114 to fit within the wider rocker arm 114 as both rocker arms 114 rotate around their respective pivot points 122.

[0046] Referring back to FIG. 4, in an exemplary embodiment, rotary-linear conversion mechanism may further comprise at least two rods 128 aligned with and passing through pivot point 122 of at least two rocker arms 114, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] In further detail with respect to FIG. 5A, in an exemplary embodiment, rotary- linear conversion mechanism may comprise at least one coordinating element 130. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one coordinating element 130 may comprise first end 132 engaged with first section 118 of one rocker arm 114 and second end 134 engaged with second section 120 of an opposing rocker arm 114. This configuration may allow rotation of one rocker arm 114 in a specific direction to transmit an equal force to opposing rocker arm 114, resulting in the simultaneous rotation of both rocker arms 114 in opposite directions. Moreover, this configuration may ensure equal force distribution across the mechanism, thereby maintaining smooth operation of pump 110, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one coordinating element 130 may also comprise slider and groove mechanism, magnet, or similar components that facilitate simultaneous movement of rocker arms 114 in opposite directions.

[0048] In further detail with respect to FIG. 5A, in an exemplary embodiment, rotary- linear conversion mechanism may comprise biasing element 137, such as a spring, magnet, or elastic element, engaged with two at least rocker arms 114. In an exemplary embodiment,Ref-1403-02-8790 biasing element 137 may be double torsion spring, with first end 138 engaged with first section 118 of one of two at least rocker arms 114 in contact with inner curved concave surface 126 of that section. Second end 140 of spring may be fixed to frame 116, while coil loop 136 may be positioned between first end 138 and second end 140, wrapped around rod 128, as shown in FIG. 5A.

[0049] FIG. 5B illustrates a schematic side view 502 of reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism of pump 110, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5B, in an exemplary embodiment, pump 110 may comprise reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism configured to draw ambient air into inflatable tire 104 through at least one piston 144 disposed within at least one cylinder 142.

[0050] As further shown in FIG. 5B, in an exemplary embodiment, at least one cylinder 142 may be fluidly connected to inflatable tire 104 and may comprise at least one inlet 146 through which ambient air may be drawn. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one inlet 146 may have various geometric shapes, including but not limited to circular, elliptical, rectangular, slotted, triangular, polygonal, star-shaped, and curved. Furthermore, at least one inlet 146 may be arranged in different configurations, such as axial, radial, tangential, top, bottom, side, multiple inlets, and helical, to optimize air intake and enhance the functionality of system.

[0051] FIG. 5B further illustrates one-way air valve 148 may be concentrically positioned within at least one inlet 146, fluidly coupling at least one cylinder 142 to the ambient air. In this embodiment, one-way air valve 148 may allow ambient air to flow into at least one cylinder 142 while preventing air from escaping back into the ambient air. In an exemplary embodiment, one-way air valve 148 may comprise various mechanisms, including but not limited to, a flap valve, diaphragm valve, reed valve, duckbill valve, ball valve with spring, swing check valve, or spring-loaded check valve, ensuring unidirectional flow of air.Ref-1403-02-8790

[0052] Referring back to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5B, in an exemplary embodiment, at least one cylinder 142 may be fixedly mounted on rim 106 and centrally positioned within frame 116, located between at least two rocker arms 114, such that two at least rocker arms 114 are arranged on either side of at least one cylinder 142.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 5B, in an exemplary embodiment, at least one piston 144 may be linked to each of at least two rocker arms 114 via connecting rod 150, such that the rotation of rocker arm 114 may cause at least one piston 144 to move back and forth along a longitudinal axis of at least one cylinder 142. In an exemplary embodiment, connecting rod 150 may have first end 143 connected to at least one piston 144 and hollow second end 145 may be designed to enclose at least two rods 147, which may pass through second end of each of at least two rocker arms 114. In an exemplary embodiment, hollow second end 145 of connecting rod 150 and rod 147 may be formed as an integrated, one-piece structure.

[0054] FIG. 6A illustrates a cross-sectional view 600 of pump 110 at the beginning of an intake stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In further detail with respect to FIG. 6A, as inflatable tire 104 rotates and becomes deflated, curved convex surface 124 of first section 118 of each rocker arm 114 may contact inner layer of inflatable tire 104, causing two at least rocker arms 114 to rotate in opposite rotational directions about their respective pivot points 122, thereby initiating an intake stroke. During an intake stroke, at least one piston 144 may move away from at least one cylinder 142, drawing ambient air into at least one cylinder 142.

[0055] FIG. 6B illustrates a schematic view 602 of pump 110 at the beginning of a compression stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In further detail with respect to FIG. 6B, as inflatable tire 104 continues to rotate, one of at least two rocker arms 114 may be released from the deflection of inflatable tire 104, and biasingRef-1403-02-8790 element 137 may provide a force to initiate a compression stroke. During a compression stroke, at least one piston 144 may move toward closed end 149 of at least one cylinder 142, compressing the ambient air within at least one cylinder 142 and forcing ambient air into inflatable tire 104 to reinflate inflatable tire 104.

[0056] FIG. 7A illustrates a schematic view 700 of pump 110 with two pistons 144 at the beginning of an intake stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As depicted in FIG. 7A, two connecting rods 150, each connected to a respective rocker arm 114, move in opposite directions, pulling two pistons 144 toward the ends of at least one cylinder 142 and allowing ambient air to enter through at least one inlet 146, initiating an intake stroke. In this configuration, by using two pistons 144 within a cylinder 142 with two open ends, the air intake speed into inflatable tire 104 may be doubled, thereby increasing the efficiency of pump 110.

[0057] FIG. 7B illustrates a schematic view 702 of pump 110 with two pistons 144 at the beginning of a compression stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As depicted in FIG. 7B, two pistons 144 may retract into at least one cylinder 142, compressing the trapped air between them and forcing the trapped air into inflatable tire 104, initiating a compression stroke.

[0058] FIG. 8A illustrates a rear view 800 of piston 144, consistent with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8B illustrates a schematic view 802 of piston 144 during an intake stroke, and FIG. 8C illustrates a schematic view 803 of piston 144 during a compression stroke, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0059] With further reference to FIGs. 8A-C, in an exemplary embodiment, piston 144 may comprise proximal plate 152 and distal plate 154, both coaxially aligned with at least oneRef-1403-02-8790 cylinder 142. In one or more embodiments, the diameters of proximal plate 152 and distal plate 154 may be the same or may differ. As further shown in FIGs. 8A-C, a gap may be defined between proximal plate 152 and distal plate 154, and distal plate 154 may comprise at least one outlet pathway 158 to conduct ambient air from at least one cylinder 142 to inflatable tire 104. As depicted in FIGs. 8A-C, ring 160 with a larger diameter than both distal plate 154 and proximal plate 152, may be disposed in a gap. In an exemplary embodiment, ring 160 may be formed from a variety of materials, including, but not limited to, metal with anti- wear coatings, ceramics, composites, PTFE with wear-resistant fillers, or carbide. With further reference to FIG. 8B, in an exemplary embodiment, ring 160 may slidably contact inner surface of at least one cylinder 142 and may be configured to seal an interface between an inside of at least one cylinder 142 and inflatable tire 104 by engaging with proximal plate 152 during an intake stroke, thereby obstructing gap. With further reference to FIG. 8C, in an exemplary embodiment, during a compression stroke, ring 160 may disengage from proximal plate 152, allowing the ambient air to move through gap and into outlet pathway 158, directing the air into inflatable tire 104.

[0060] While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

[0061] Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that isRef-1403-02-8790 consistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0062] The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that now follow. That scope is intended and should be interpreted to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in light of this specification and the prosecution history that follows and to encompass all structural and functional equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirement of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act, nor should they be interpreted in such a way. Any unintended embracement of such subject matter is hereby disclaimed.

[0063] Except as stated immediately above, nothing that has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.

[0064] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0065] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoingRef-1403-02-8790Detailed Description, it may be seen that various features are grouped together in various implementations. This is for purposes of streamlining the disclosure, and is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed implementations require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed implementation. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0066] While various implementations have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more implementations and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the implementations. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any implementation may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other implementation unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and / or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the implementations are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

Ref- 1403-02-8790What is claimed is:

1. A pump for use with a wheel rim of an inflatable tire, the pump comprising: a rotary-linear conversion mechanism comprising: at least two rocker arms pivotally connected to a frame, wherein the frame is fixedly mounted to the wheel and disposed inside the inflatable tire, wherein the at least two rocker arms disposed opposite each other inside the inflatable tire such that each respective axis of rotation of respective rocker arms is parallel to an axis of rotation of the wheel rim, each respective rocker arm of the at least two rocker arms comprising: a first section comprising a curved convex surface and a curved concave surface, the first section extending between a first free end of the corresponding rocker arm and a pivot point thereof; and a second section extending between the pivot point and a second end of the corresponding rocker arm, wherein each respective curved concave surface of the respective first sections of the at least two rocker arms faces one another; at least one coordinating element engaging the at least two rocker arms to one another, the at least one coordinating element configured to simultaneously rotate the at least two rocker arms in opposite rotational directions about their respective pivot points; and at least one biasing element engaging with either rocker arm of the at least two rocker arms; and a reciprocating air intake and compression mechanism comprising:Ref- 1403-02-8790 at least one cylinder being in fluid communication with the inflatable tire and an ambient air, the at least one cylinder comprising a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and at least one inlet disposed between the first end and the second end, wherein the at least one inlet configured to introduce an ambient air into the at least one cylinder; and at least one piston connected to either one of the at least two rocker arms via a connecting rod such that as the corresponding rocker arm rotates about the corresponding pivot point, the at least one piston slidably moves back and forth within the at least one cylinder along a longitudinal axis of the at least one cylinder, the at least one piston comprising: a proximal plate disposed coaxially with the at least one cylinder; a distal plate connected coaxially with the proximal plate, wherein a gap between the proximal plate and the distal plate is defined, the distal plate comprises at least one outlet pathway configured to conduct the ambient air accumulated in the at least one cylinder into the inflatable tire; and a ring having a diameter larger than respective diameters of the proximal plate and the distal plate, the ring disposed within the gap, wherein the ring moves between the proximal and distal plates as the at least one piston slidably moves within the at least one cylinder such that the ring either seals or unseals the at least one outlet pathway of the distal plate.

2. The pump of claim 1, wherein a width of one of the at least two rocker arms is narrower than the other one, allowing the rocker arm with a narrower width to nest within the rocker arm with a wider width during the rotation of the at least two rocker arms about their respective pivot points.Ref- 1403-02-87903. The pump of claim 1, wherein the at least one cylinder is fixedly mounted on the rim and centrally disposed within the frame between the at least two rocker arms, such that the at least two rocker arms are disposed on opposite sides of the at least one cylinder.

4. The pump of claim 1, further comprising a one-way air valve disposed concentrically within the at least one inlet, fluidly coupling the at least one cylinder to the ambient air to allow ambient air to enter the at least one cylinder while blocking air from escaping the at least one cylinder back into the ambient air.

5. The pump of claim 1, further comprising at least two rods aligned with and passing through the respective pivot points.

6. The pump of claim 1, wherein the at least one biasing element is a double torsion spring wrapped around the corresponding rod, wherein a first end of the biasing element engages with the frame and a second end of the biasing element engages with the first section of the corresponding rocker arm of the at least two rocker arms.

7. The pump of claim 1, wherein the at least one coordinating element is an arm comprising two ends, one end of the at least one coordinating element is engaged with the first section of either one of the at least two rocker arms and another end is engaged with the second section of the another rocker arm of the at least two rocker arms.

8. The pump of claim 1, wherein the connecting rod comprises a first end engaged with the distal plate of the at least one piston, and a hollow second end configured to surround a rod which passes through the second end of corresponding rocker arm of the at least two rocker arms.

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