Mounting structure for tire air filling device

Abstract

A mounting structure 1 for a tire air filling device according to one embodiment is a mounting structure for a tire air filling device 20 provided on a wheel 10 attached to a tire T, the tire air filling device 20 compressing air and supplying the compressed air into the tire T. The mounting structure 1 comprises: a fixing part 2 that fixes the tire air filling device 20 to a rim 13 of the wheel 10; and an elastic body 3 that biases the tire air filling device 20 toward the fixing part 2 and outward in a radial direction D1 of the tire T.

Description

Mounting Structure of Tire Air Filling Device

[0001] This disclosure relates to a mounting structure of a tire air filling device. This application claims priority based on Japanese Application No. 2024-228637 filed on December 25, 2024, and incorporates all the descriptions described in the above Japanese application.

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a tire air filling device. This tire air filling device is provided on a wheel attached to a tire. The tire air filling device compresses air and fills the inside of the tire with air. The tire air filling device includes a cylinder and a weight. The cylinder has a first opening communicating with the tire. The weight receives centrifugal force and supplies air from the first opening to the tire. The tire air filling device is fixed by clamping the cylinder with a clamp and fastening the clamp to the wheel with bolts.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes a tire valve unit. This tire valve unit includes a tire valve and a tire sensor. The tire valve unit is attached to the rim of a vehicle wheel via an elastic cylindrical member. An annular space is formed in the elastic cylindrical member. The tire valve unit is held on the rim by a first engaging portion and a second engaging portion of the elastic cylindrical member. The annular space introduces air pressure to press the elastic cylindrical member against the rim.

[0004] Patent Document 3 describes an air valve device. This air valve device is composed of an electronic device unit and an air valve. The electronic device unit is attached to the rim of the wheel. The air valve is inserted into a valve insertion hole of the rim. The air valve includes a body portion and a mounting portion. The body portion has a linear shape. The mounting portion is provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the body portion. The mounting portion includes a head portion and a neck portion. The head portion has a shape having a longitudinal direction and a short direction in a valve cross section substantially orthogonal to the linearly shaped body portion. The neck portion is adjacent to the head portion.

[0005] Patent Document 4 describes a mounting structure for a tire pressure detection device and a wheel used therefor. A storage recess is formed in the wheel disc portion. A circuit consisting of a transmitter and a power supply is mounted in the storage recess. A communication hole is formed in the wheel disc portion that communicates with the storage recess. A pressure sensor is mounted in the communication hole.

[0006] International Publication No. 2023 / 038089, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-153298, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2006-188097, Japanese Patent Publication No. Hei 7-149122

[0007] Tire inflation devices may be secured to the wheel using clamps or other fasteners. Attaching the tire inflation device to the wheel may not always be easy. When attaching the tire inflation device to the wheel without using clamps or other fasteners, there is room for improvement in terms of stability when the tire inflation device is held to the wheel.

[0008] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a mounting structure for a tire air inflation device that can be held stably and is easy to assemble.

[0009] The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to this disclosure is (1) a mounting structure for a tire air inflation device that is provided on a wheel attached to a tire and compresses air to inflate the inside of the tire. This mounting structure for a tire air inflation device comprises a fixing part that fixes the tire air inflation device to the rim of the wheel, and an elastic body that biases the tire air inflation device toward the fixing part and outward in the radial direction of the tire.

[0010] This tire air inflation device mounting structure comprises a fixing part and an elastic body. The fixing part secures the tire air inflation device to the wheel rim. The elastic body biases the tire air inflation device toward the fixing part, outward in the radial direction of the tire. The fixing part secures the tire air inflation device to the rim, and the elastic body maintains the state in which the tire air inflation device is biased outward in the radial direction of the tire. By biasing the tire air inflation device outward in the radial direction of the tire with the elastic body, vibration of the tire air inflation device in directions other than the radial direction of the tire during vehicle operation can be suppressed. The movement of the tire air inflation device can be restricted to the radial direction of the tire only, and vibration of the tire air inflation device in directions other than the radial direction of the tire can be suppressed. The tire air inflation device can be stably held on the wheel. The tire air inflation device can be fixed to the wheel by the fixing part and elastic body without using fasteners such as clamps. Assembly of the tire air inflation device to the wheel becomes easier.

[0011] (2) In (1) above, the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device may be recessed in the spokes of the wheel toward the inside of the wheel and have a recess for housing the tire air inflation device. The tire air inflation device can be housed in the recess. The tire air inflation device can be protected from rainwater and the like, and can also be protected from collisions with obstacles while driving. Damage to the tire air inflation device can be suppressed.

[0012] (3) In (2) above, the mounting structure of the tire air inflation device may include a cover that covers the recess. The recess can be covered by the cover. This can prevent rainwater and the like from entering the recess. Even if the wheel collides with an obstacle, the tire air inflation device housed in the recess inside the cover can be protected from the collision. Damage to the tire air inflation device can be more reliably suppressed.

[0013] (4) In any of (1) to (3) above, the fixing part may have a metal member for fixing the tire air inflation device to the rim. The tire air inflation device may have a metal part that contacts the metal member. The metal part and the rim may be in contact, and the tire air inflation device may be fixed to the rim in a state where the metal member and the rim are in contact. By having a metal member in the fixing part and the metal part contacting the metal member to fix the tire air inflation device to the rim, the tire air inflation device can be firmly fixed to the rim. Wear of the fixing part due to vibration, etc. can be suppressed, and tire air leakage can be suppressed more reliably.

[0014] (5) In any of (1) to (4) above, the mounting structure of the tire air inflation device may have a support part that supports the elastic body at a position away from the fixing part. The support part may have a plurality of support pieces that surround the elastic body. The elastic body can be supported while being surrounded by the plurality of support pieces of the support part. The behavior of the elastic body can be stabilized, so that vibrations applied to the tire air inflation device can be suppressed more reliably. The tire air inflation device can be held on the wheel more reliably and stably.

[0015] (6) In any of (1) to (5) above, the tire air inflation device may have a cylinder that generates compressed air internally. The cylinder may have a flange protruding from the outer surface of the cylinder. One end of the elastic body may be in contact with the center of the wheel. The other end of the elastic body may be in contact with the flange.

[0016] (7) In (4) above, the metal member may have a first nut and a second nut. The first nut and the second nut may be arranged radially.

[0017] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a mounting structure for a tire air inflation device that can be held stably and is easy to assemble.

[0018] This is a perspective view showing an example of a wheel and tire equipped with a mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to an embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device. This is a cross-sectional view showing the check valve and fixing part of the tire air inflation device. This is a side view showing the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device with the cover removed. This is a perspective view showing the cover removed from the spokes together with the wheel. This is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting part of the cover. This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the tire air inflation device being placed diagonally into the recess. This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the tire air inflation device being moved radially inward in the recess. This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the tire air inflation device being biased radially outward in the recess.

[0019] The following describes an embodiment of the mounting structure of the tire air inflation device according to this disclosure, with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted as appropriate. For the sake of ease of understanding, some parts of the drawings may be simplified or exaggerated, and the dimensional ratios, etc., are not limited to those shown in the drawings.

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a wheel 10 and a tire T equipped with a mounting structure 1 for a tire air inflation device according to an embodiment. For example, multiple wheels 10 and multiple tires T are installed on an automobile. Each wheel 10 and each tire T rotates as the automobile is driven. The wheel 10 is made of, for example, metal.

[0021] In the following explanation, "radial direction" means the direction toward the central axis of the wheel 10 or away from the central axis of the wheel 10, in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the wheel 10. "Outer radial direction" means the direction away from the central axis of the wheel 10 within the radial direction. "Inner radial direction" means the direction toward the central axis of the wheel 10 within the radial direction.

[0022] "Circumferential direction" refers to the direction along the ring centered on the central axis of the wheel 10. "Axial direction" refers to the direction along the central axis of the wheel 10. These directions are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the position or orientation of the object.

[0023] The wheel 10 has a central portion 11, spokes 12, and a rim 13. The central portion 11 is the part through which the axle is inserted. The central portion 11 is located at the center of the wheel 10. The central portion 11 supports the axle. The central portion 11 has a through hole 11a facing the axial direction D3. The through hole 11a is located at the center of the central portion 11. The axle is inserted through the through hole 11a.

[0024] The spokes 12 are the parts that connect the central part 11 and the rim 13 to each other. The wheel 10 has multiple spokes 12 (five in one example). The multiple spokes 12 extend radially outward from the central part 11 in the radial direction D1. The multiple spokes 12 are arranged along the circumferential direction D2.

[0025] The rim 13 is the part to which the tire T is attached. The rim 13 is located outside the spokes 12 in the radial direction D1. The rim 13 extends along the circumferential direction D2. The rim 13 has a valve insertion hole 13a (see Figure 2). The check valve 26 of the tire air inflation device 20, which will be described later, is inserted through the valve insertion hole 13a. The valve insertion hole 13a faces in the radial direction D1. The valve insertion hole 13a penetrates the rim 13 in the radial direction D1.

[0026] Mounting structure 1 is a mounting structure for a tire air replenishment device 20, which is provided on a wheel 10 attached to a tire T, and compresses air to replenish the inside of the tire T. The tire air replenishment device 20 is attached, for example, to a spoke 12 of the wheel 10. The tire air replenishment device 20 is built into, for example, the spoke 12. On the wheel 10, for example, a balance weight may be installed on the opposite side from the tire air replenishment device 20. This improves the balance of the weight of the tire T and the wheel 10, and stabilizes the rotation of the tire T and the wheel 10.

[0027] The tire air inflation device 20 receives a centrifugal force outward in the radial direction D1 as the wheel 10 and tire T rotate while the vehicle is in motion. The tire air inflation device 20 generates compressed air from the centrifugal force received by the rotation of the tire T and replenishes the inside of the tire T with this compressed air.

[0028] A wheel 10 may have one tire air inflation device 20 attached to it, or it may have multiple tire air inflation devices 20 attached to it. Multiple wheels 10 may each have a tire air inflation device 20 attached to them. Figure 1 shows an example in which one tire air inflation device 20 is attached to one wheel 10.

[0029] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting structure 1 of the tire air inflation device. Figure 2 shows cross-sections along the radial direction D1 and axial direction D3 (cross-sections perpendicular to the circumferential direction D2). The tire air inflation device 20 includes a cylinder 21, a weight 22, a vent filter 23, a weight spring 24, a backflow prevention valve 25, and a check valve 26.

[0030] The cylinder 21 generates compressed air internally. The cylinder 21 protects, for example, the internal components of the cylinder 21. When the tire air inflation device 20 is attached to the wheel 10, the cylinder 21 is positioned, for example, along the radial direction D1. The cylinder 21 is, for example, cylindrical.

[0031] The cylinder 21 has an outer circumferential surface 21a, a flange portion 21b, and an opening 21c. The outer circumferential surface 21a is, for example, the surface of the cylindrical cylinder 21. The outer circumferential surface 21a is a curved surface along an axis centered on the axis of the cylinder 21.

[0032] The flange portion 21b is provided on the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21. The flange portion 21b protrudes from the outer circumferential surface 21a. The flange portion 21b is located in the cylinder 21 at a position offset to one side from the center in the radial direction D1. The flange portion 21b is located in the cylinder 21 on the opposite side from the check valve 26.

[0033] The flange portion 21b is formed closer to the elastic body 3 than to the center of the cylinder 21. By forming the flange portion 21b closer to the elastic body 3, it is possible to easily apply the biasing force of the elastic body 3 to the tire air inflation device 20.

[0034] The flange portion 21b is, for example, annular in shape. The flange portion 21b extends in a direction along the axis centered on the axis of the cylinder 21. The flange portion 21b extends so as to surround the cylinder 21. The outer diameter of the flange portion 21b is larger than the outer diameter of the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21.

[0035] The flange portion 21b has a surface 21d facing inward in the radial direction D1 (the axial direction in which the axis of the cylinder 21 extends). Surface 21d is the surface in contact with the elastic body 3. For example, the difference between the outer diameter and the inner diameter of surface 21d is (slightly) larger than the width of the portion of the elastic body 3 that contacts surface 21d. The difference between the outer and inner diameters of surface 21d is sufficient length for the elastic body 3 to contact surface 21d.

[0036] The opening 21c is a hole for allowing air to flow into the inside of the cylinder 21. The opening 21c is formed at one end 21e of the cylinder 21 in the radial direction D1 (axial direction of the cylinder 21). The opening 21c is located on the opposite side of the cylinder 21 from the check valve 26. The opening 21c faces inward in the radial direction D1. The opening 21c is, for example, circular in shape. A vent filter 23 is attached to the opening 21c.

[0037] The vent filter 23 is, for example, a filter that allows gas to pass through but blocks liquids and solids. The vent filter 23 covers the opening 21c. The vent filter 23 is, for example, a bottomed cylindrical shape. The vent filter 23 fits into the opening 21c of the cylinder 21. The vent filter 23 (end 21e of the cylinder 21) is separated from the central part 11 of the wheel 10. An O-ring may be interposed between the vent filter 23 and the cylinder 21 (opening 21c). The O-ring ensures airtightness inside the cylinder 21.

[0038] The weight 22 generates compressed air inside the cylinder 21. The weight 22 is positioned inside the cylinder 21. The weight 22 moves radially D1 (in the axial direction of the cylinder 21) inside the cylinder 21. By moving along the radial direction D1, the weight 22 generates compressed air inside the cylinder 21.

[0039] Multiple (two in one example) airtight weight seals may be interposed between the weight 22 and the cylinder 21. The airtight weight seals ensure airtightness between the weight 22 and the cylinder 21. The airtight weight seals are, for example, Y-shaped packings.

[0040] The weight 22 is, for example, cylindrical. The weight 22 is made of, for example, a material containing tungsten. The weight 22 may be made of tungsten or a tungsten alloy. The weight 22 is, for example, a high-density material with a higher specific gravity than the cylinder 21.

[0041] If the weight 22 is made of a high-density material, it is possible to increase the mass of the weight 22 while reducing its diameter. This allows for sufficient reciprocating motion of the weight 22 in the radial direction D1 (axis direction of the cylinder 21) due to centrifugal force, enabling a more sufficient supply of air to the tire T.

[0042] The weight spring 24 is a spring that biases the weight 22 toward the opening 21c of the cylinder 21. The weight spring 24 is located inside the cylinder 21. The weight spring 24 is aligned with the weight 22. The weight spring 24 is positioned to extend from the weight 22 toward the opposite side of the opening 21c.

[0043] The weight spring 24 is designed to expand and contract in the radial direction D1 (the axial direction of the cylinder 21). The weight spring 24 generates a repulsive force when it is compressed. The sliding resistance when the weight 22 is biased by the weight spring 24 is smaller than the sliding resistance when the weight 22 moves to the opposite side of the opening 21c of the cylinder 21.

[0044] The check valve 25 prevents the backflow of air inside the cylinder 21. The check valve 25 is located between the weight 22 and the weight spring 24. The check valve 25 extends in the radial direction D1 (the axial direction of the cylinder 21). The check valve 25 allows the flow of air from the weight 22 to the tire T. The check valve 25 restricts the flow of air from the tire T to the weight 22.

[0045] An airtight member for the check valve may be interposed between the check valve 25 and the weight 22. The airtight member for the check valve ensures airtightness between the check valve 25 and the weight 22. The airtight member for the check valve is, for example, an O-ring. For example, one airtight member for the check valve is disposed between the check valve 25 and the weight 22.

[0046] The check valve 26 prevents the backflow of air from the tire T into the interior of the cylinder 21. The check valve 26 is located outside the cylinder 21 in the radial direction D1 (the axial direction of the cylinder 21). The check valve 26 is attached on the side opposite to the vent filter 23 when viewed from the cylinder 21.

[0047] The check valve 26 is attached to the rim 13. The check valve 26 is inserted into the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13. The check valve 26 extends in the radial direction D1 (the axial direction of the cylinder 21). The axis of the check valve 26 is along the radial direction D1. The internal space of the check valve 26 communicates with the internal space of the tire T. The compressed air generated inside the cylinder 21 is supplied to the internal space of the tire T through the check valve 26.

[0048] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the check valve 26 of the tire air filling device 20 and the fixing portion 2 of the mounting structure 1. FIG. 3 shows a cross-section along the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the check valve 26 has a housing 26a which is a metal part, a valve body part 26c, a check valve spring 26d, and a check valve support part 26e.

[0049] The housing 26a covers the valve body 26c, the check valve spring 26d, and the check valve support 26e. The housing 26a is made of metal. For example, the housing 26a is made of aluminum. The end 26f of the housing 26a opposite to the cylinder 21 is, for example, cylindrical (in one example, cylindrical). A male thread 26h is formed on the end 26f of the housing 26a. The male thread 26h is formed on the surface of the housing 26a along an axis centered on the axis of the cylinder 21.

[0050] The housing 26a has an air vent 26b. The air vent 26b is formed between the internal space of the cylinder 21 and the space in which the valve body 26c is located. The air vent 26b extends along the axis of the cylinder 21. Air passes through the air vent 26b from the internal space of the cylinder 21 towards the space in which the valve body 26c is located.

[0051] The valve body 26c is a component that closes and opens the air hole 26b. The valve body 26c is housed inside the housing 26a. The valve body 26c extends along the axis of the cylinder 21. The valve body 26c extends radially D1.

[0052] The valve body 26c is movable radially D1 relative to the check valve support 26e. When the valve body 26c moves toward the air hole 26b side (inward radially D1), the air hole 26b is closed. When the valve body 26c moves toward the tire T side (outward radially D1), the air hole 26b is opened.

[0053] An airtight member may be interposed between the valve body 26c and the housing 26a. The airtight member ensures airtightness between the valve body 26c and the housing 26a. The airtight member is, for example, an O-ring. For example, one airtight member is placed between the valve body 26c and the housing 26a.

[0054] The check valve spring 26d biases the valve body 26c toward the air hole 26b side (inward in the radial direction D1). The check valve spring 26d is positioned to surround the valve body 26c. The check valve spring 26d is positioned to extend in the radial direction D1 (axial direction of the cylinder 21).

[0055] The check valve spring 26d is designed to be expandable and contractible in the radial direction D1. The check valve spring 26d generates a repulsive force when compressed. For example, the load (holding force) required to start the check valve 26 is greater than the load required to start the backflow prevention valve 25.

[0056] The check valve support portion 26e is the part that bears the valve body portion 26c. The check valve support portion 26e is located inside the end portion 26f of the housing 26a opposite to the cylinder 21. The check valve support portion 26e is in contact with the housing 26a. The check valve support portion 26e is located between the housing 26a and the valve body portion 26c. The check valve support portion 26e is located inside the tire T.

[0057] The check valve support portion 26e supports the end of the check valve spring 26d opposite to the cylinder 21. The space on the opposite side of the check valve spring 26d, as seen from the check valve support portion 26e, communicates with the internal space of the tire T.

[0058] The tire air inflation device 20 has a fixing part 2 and an elastic body 3. The fixing part 2 fixes the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13 of the wheel 10. The fixing part 2 has a first nut 2a and a second nut 2b, which are metal members, a washer 2c and an O-ring 2d.

[0059] The first nut 2a and the second nut 2b secure the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13. The first nut 2a and the second nut 2b are made of metal. The first nut 2a and the second nut 2b are attached to the tire T-side end 26f of the housing 26a. The first nut 2a and the second nut 2b are aligned radially D1. The first nut 2a and the second nut 2b form a double nut.

[0060] The first nut 2a and the second nut 2b are screwed onto the end 26f of the housing 26a. Inside the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b, there is a female thread 2f that screws onto the male thread 26h of the housing 26a of the check valve 26. The tire air inflation device 20 is fixed to the rim 13 by fastening the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b to the male thread 26h of the housing 26a.

[0061] The housing 26a contacts the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b. With the housing 26a in contact with the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b, the tire air inflation device 20 is fixed to the rim 13. With the housing 26a and the rim 13 in contact, and with the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b and the rim 13 in contact, the tire air inflation device 20 is fixed to the rim 13.

[0062] The housing 26a, which is a metal part, comes into contact with the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b, which are metal components. This allows the tire air inflation device 20 to be fixed more securely than when it is fixed with a rubber gasket or the like, and also suppresses wear. Since the tire air inflation device 20 is prevented from bending relative to the axis of the check valve 26, air leakage from the tire T can be suppressed more reliably.

[0063] The washer 2c is installed between the second nut 2b and the rim 13. The washer 2c is in contact with the second nut 2b and the rim 13. The washer 2c is annular in shape. The end portion 26f of the housing 26a is inserted through the washer 2c. The cross-section of the washer 2c along the axial direction D3 is, for example, L-shaped. The washer 2c has a gap between the rim 13 and the housing 26a, and an O-ring 2d is placed in this gap. The washer 2c is made of, for example, metal.

[0064] The O-ring 2d is installed, for example, between the washer 2c and the rim 13. The fixing part 2 has multiple (two in one example) O-rings 2d. The O-rings 2d are positioned in recesses that are recessed in the radial direction D1 of the housing 26a. The recesses of the housing 26a face the rim 13.

[0065] Multiple O-rings 2d are arranged radially in the direction D1. The O-rings 2d ensure airtightness of the air inside the tire T. The washer 2c and O-rings 2d can stably receive the biasing force of the elastic body 3. This can suppress vibrations caused by the acceleration and deceleration of the automobile that are applied to the tire air inflation device 20.

[0066] Figure 4 is a side view showing the mounting structure 1 of the tire air inflation device. As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the elastic body 3 biases the tire air inflation device 20 outward in the radial direction D1 toward the fixing part 2. The elastic body 3 is, for example, expandable and contractible in the radial direction D1. In one example, the elastic body 3 is a coil spring (helical spring). The elastic body 3 is a spring that has elasticity against compressive force.

[0067] The elastic body 3 is positioned to surround the outer circumferential surface 21a of the tire air inflation device 20. A portion of the elastic body 3 is positioned between the end portion 21e of the cylinder 21 and the support portion 6, which will be described later. The elastic body 3 is in contact with the outer circumferential surface 21a, for example. The elastic body 3 does not have to be in contact with the outer circumferential surface 21a.

[0068] For example, one end of the elastic body 3 is in contact with the central part 11 of the wheel 10. The other end of the elastic body 3 is in contact with the flange 21b of the tire air inflation device 20. By compressing the elastic body 3 and placing it between the tire air inflation device 20 (flange 21b) and the wheel 10 (central part 11), the force of the elastic body 3 trying to return to its original position can be used to bias the tire air inflation device 20 outward in the radial direction D1. The elastic body 3 can maintain the state in which the tire air inflation device 20 is biased outward in the radial direction D1, thereby suppressing vibrations and the like applied to the tire air inflation device 20 in directions other than the radial direction D1.

[0069] The mounting structure 1 has a recess 4. The recess 4 is a portion that houses the tire air inflation device 20. The recess 4 is recessed inward toward the inside of the wheel 10 in the spoke 12 of the wheel 10. The recess 4 is located, for example, in the center of the spoke 12. The recess 4 extends, for example, from the central portion 11 toward the rim 13. The recess 4 may penetrate the spoke 12 in the axial direction D3.

[0070] The recess 4 extends, for example, in the radial direction D1. The recess 4 is, for example, rectangular in shape. For example, the length of the recess 4 in the radial direction D1 is longer than the length of the recess 4 in the circumferential direction D2. The internal space of the recess 4 is large enough to accommodate the tire air inflation device 20. The length of the recess 4 in the radial direction D1 is longer than the length of the tire air inflation device 20 in the radial direction D1.

[0071] For example, the circumferential length D2 of the recess 4 is greater than the circumferential length D2 of the tire air inflation device 20. The rim 13 faces, for example, the internal space of the recess 4. The valve insertion hole 13a faces the recess 4. The tire air inflation device 20 (check valve 26) can be inserted through the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13.

[0072] The mounting structure 1 has a support portion 6. The support portion 6 is provided in the recess 4. The support portion 6 supports the elastic body 3 at a position away from the fixing portion 2. The support portion 6 is located closer to the central portion 11 of the spoke 12. The support portion 6 may also be provided in the central portion 11. The support portion 6 extends radially outward from the central portion 11 in the radial direction D1.

[0073] The support portion 6 has, for example, a plurality of support pieces 6a (three in one example) surrounding the elastic body 3. The support pieces 6a extend, for example, radially outward from the central portion 11 of the wheel 10 in the direction D1. The support pieces 6a are positioned on the outside of the elastic body 3. The elastic body 3 is in contact with, for example, the plurality of support pieces 6a. The plurality of support pieces 6a are arranged around an axis centered on the axis of the cylinder 21 (see Figure 5). A space 6d is formed in the portion surrounded by the plurality of support pieces 6a.

[0074] The support piece 6a includes, for example, a first guide 6b and a second guide 6c. The first guide 6b extends around an axis centered on the axis of the cylinder 21. The first guide 6b is, for example, plate-shaped. The first guide 6b is, for example, arc-shaped along an axis centered on the axis of the cylinder 21 (see Figure 5).

[0075] The second guide 6c is formed to reinforce the first guide 6b. The second guide 6c is positioned on the opposite side of the elastic body 3 when viewed from the first guide 6b. The second guide 6c protrudes from the first guide 6b in the direction opposite to the axis of the cylinder 21. The second guide 6c is, for example, plate-shaped.

[0076] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the cover 5 removed from the spoke 12 together with the wheel 10. The mounting structure 1 includes a cover 5 that covers the recess 4. The cover 5 is attached to the spoke 12 of the wheel 10. By attaching the cover 5 to the spoke 12, the aesthetic design of the wheel 10 can be improved. The cover 5 can reduce air resistance and wind noise on the wheel 10 when the vehicle is in motion. The cover 5 is made of, for example, the same material as the wheel 10. The cover 5 is made of, for example, metal.

[0077] The spoke 12 has an opening 12f. The opening 12f is the entrance / exit to the recess 4. The opening 12f is formed on the surface 12a of the spoke 12 facing the axial direction D3. The opening 12f is, for example, rectangular in shape.

[0078] The cover 5 is attached to the spoke 12 so as to close the opening 12f of the spoke 12. The cover 5 fits into the opening 12f of the spoke 12. When the cover 5 is attached to the spoke 12, for example, the surface 5a of the cover 5 is flush with the surface 12a of the spoke 12. By attaching the cover 5 to the spoke 12, contamination of the tire air inflation device 20 by dust, muddy water, or rainwater can be suppressed. The air inflation performance of the tire air inflation device 20 can be maintained.

[0079] The cover 5 has a main body portion 5b and a mounting portion 5c. The main body portion 5b is the part that covers the recess 4 of the cover 5. The main body portion 5b is, for example, plate-shaped. The main body portion 5b is, for example, rectangular-shaped. The shape of the main body portion 5b corresponds to the shape of the opening 12f. When the cover 5 is attached to the spoke 12, the radial length D1 of the main body portion 5b is longer than the circumferential length D2 of the main body portion 5b.

[0080] The main body portion 5b has, for example, a notch 5k. The notch 5k is formed at one end of the main body portion 5b in the longitudinal direction. When the cover 5 is attached to the spokes 12, the notch 5k is adjacent to the central portion 11 of the wheel 10. The notch 5k is located, for example, in the center of the cover 5 in the width direction (circumferential direction D2 when the cover 5 is attached to the spokes 12).

[0081] The notch 5k is formed, for example, by cutting a U-shaped notch at one end of the cover 5 in the longitudinal direction. For example, a flathead screwdriver can be inserted into the notch 5k. The formation of the notch 5k makes it easier to remove the cover 5 from the wheel 10.

[0082] The mounting portion 5c is the part that attaches the cover 5 to the spoke 12. In one example, the mounting portion 5c is claw-shaped. The cover 5 has a pair of mounting portions 5c. The pair of mounting portions 5c are, for example, aligned in the width direction of the cover 5. The pair of mounting portions 5c are located at both ends of the cover 5 in the width direction on the main body portion 5b.

[0083] The cover 5 has a group of mounting parts consisting of a pair of mounting parts 5c. The cover 5 has multiple groups of mounting parts (two in one example). The group of mounting parts consisting of a pair of mounting parts 5c is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the cover 5 (radial direction D1 when the cover 5 is attached to the spoke 12).

[0084] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting portion 5c of the cover 5 together with the spokes 12. Figure 6 shows a cross-section along the direction in which the spokes 12 and the mounting portion 5c are aligned (circumferential direction D2) and along the axial direction D3 (a cross-section perpendicular to the radial direction D1). The mounting portion 5c extends from the main body portion 5b in the thickness direction of the cover 5 (axial direction D3 when the cover 5 is attached to the spokes 12). The mounting portion 5c is located on the opposite side from the surface 5a of the cover 5.

[0085] The mounting portion 5c has a hook portion 5d. The hook portion 5d is the part that hooks the cover 5 onto the spoke 12. In one example, the hook portion 5d is in the shape of a projection. The hook portion 5d is located towards the tip of the mounting portion 5c rather than towards the center of the mounting portion 5c. The hook portion 5d protrudes outward in the width direction of the cover 5. Outward in the width direction of the cover 5 means the side of the spoke 12 in the circumferential direction D2 when the cover 5 is attached to the spoke 12.

[0086] The hook portion 5d is, for example, shaped with corners. The hook portion 5d has a first surface 5e and a second surface 5f. The first surface 5e extends diagonally with respect to the width direction and thickness direction of the cover 5. The first surface 5e faces away from the main body portion 5b.

[0087] The second surface 5f extends in the width direction and the thickness direction of the cover 5. The second surface 5f faces the main body 5b side. The second surface 5f may be inclined with respect to the width direction and the thickness direction of the cover 5. The second surface 5f is located closer to the main body 5b than the first surface 5e.

[0088] The spoke 12 has an inner surface 12b that defines the recess 4 and a groove 12c. The inner surface 12b faces in the circumferential direction D2. The groove 12c is a groove formed in the recess 4. The groove 12c is positioned corresponding to the position of the mounting portion 5c of the cover 5 (see Figure 5). The groove 12c is recessed from the inner surface 12b of the spoke 12. The groove 12c extends in the axial direction D3. The mounting portion 5c of the cover 5 is attached to the groove 12c.

[0089] The groove 12c has an edge 12d. The edge 12d is a stepped portion of the groove 12c. The groove 12c has a surface 12g facing inward into the recess 4. The edge 12d is inclined with respect to both the inner surface 12b of the spoke 12 and the surface 12g of the groove 12c. The second surface 5f of the hook portion 5d abuts against the edge 12d.

[0090] The spoke 12 has a cover receiving portion 12e (also shown in Figure 5). The cover receiving portion 12e is located at the edge of the recess 4 (opening 12f). The cover receiving portion 12e is cut out to have a corner. The cover receiving portion 12e is recessed toward the inside of the spoke 12 in the circumferential direction D2 and the axial direction D3. The main body portion 5b of the cover 5 fits into the cover receiving portion 12e.

[0091] When attaching the cover 5 to the wheel 10, the cover 5 is moved axially D3 toward the spokes 12. The mounting portion 5c fits into the recess 4, and the first surface 5e of the mounting portion 5c comes into contact with the cover receiving portion 12e of the spoke 12, causing the mounting portion 5c to bend inward in the width direction of the cover 5. The mounting portion 5c, which has bent inward in the width direction of the cover 5, slides along the inner surface 12b of the spoke 12 along the axial direction D3. The intersection of the first surface 5e and the second surface 5f of the hook portion 5d (the protruding end of the hook portion 5d) slides along the inner surface 12b of the spoke 12.

[0092] The width W1 of the hook portion 5d is greater than the distance W2 between the inner surface 12b of the spoke 12 and the third surface 5g of the mounting portion 5c. The third surface 5g is the surface of the mounting portion 5c that faces inward in the width direction of the cover 5. Because the width W1 is greater than the distance W2, as described above, the mounting portion 5c bends inward in the width direction of the cover 5 when it fits into the recess 4.

[0093] When the intersection of the first surface 5e and the second surface 5f of the hook portion 5d passes the inner surface 12b of the spoke 12, the hook portion 5d reaches the groove portion 12c. The distance W3 from the surface 12g of the groove portion 12c to the third surface 5g of the mounting portion 5c is greater than the width W1. When the intersection of the first surface 5e and the second surface 5f of the hook portion 5d enters the groove portion 12c from the edge portion 12d, the bent mounting portion 5c returns to its original position (spreading outward in the width direction of the cover 5), and the second surface 5f faces the edge portion 12d.

[0094] Because the second surface 5f faces the edge portion 12d, even if you try to remove the cover 5, the second surface 5f will come into contact with the edge portion 12d, and the hook portion 5d will be caught in the groove portion 12c. The cover 5 is restricted from moving outward in the axial direction D3 relative to the spokes 12.

[0095] The edge 5h of the main body portion 5b of the cover 5 fits into the cover receiving portion 12e of the spoke 12. The cover 5 is restricted from moving in the circumferential direction D2 relative to the spoke 12. In this manner, the cover 5 is attached to the spoke 12.

[0096] Next, the method for assembling the tire air inflation device 20 to the wheel 10 will be described. Figure 7 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the tire air inflation device 20 is positioned at an angle with respect to the radial direction D1 and inserted into the recess 4 from the axial direction D3.

[0097] When assembling the tire air inflation device 20 to the spokes 12 of the wheel 10, first, the elastic body 3 is attached to the end 21e of the tire air inflation device 20 on the vent filter 23 side. The elastic body 3 may also be brought into contact with the surface 21d of the flange portion 21b. In the following, the portion of the elastic body 3 located at the end 21e (outer peripheral surface 21a) of the tire air inflation device 20 will be described as the first portion 3A, and the portion located outside the tire air inflation device 20 will be described as the second portion 3B.

[0098] The tire air inflation device 20 is tilted with respect to the radial direction D1 and pushed into the recess 4 toward the inside in the axial direction D3. The end portion 21e of the tire air inflation device 20 is brought into contact with the support portion 6 and the second portion 3B of the elastic body 3 is inserted into the support portion 6. The elastic body 3 is moved inside the support piece 6a of the support portion 6 until the second portion 3B of the elastic body 3 contacts the central portion 11 of the wheel 10.

[0099] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the tire air inflation device 20 has been moved inward in the radial direction D1 within the recess 4. With the elastic body 3 in contact with the central portion 11, the end portion 21e of the tire air inflation device 20 is moved inward in the radial direction D1 so as to approach the central portion 11, and the end portion 21e is placed inside the support piece 6a (first guide 6b) of the support portion 6. With the end portion 21e inside the support portion 6, the tire air inflation device 20 is rotated so that the tire air inflation device 20 is aligned with the radial direction D1, with the end portion 26f of the housing 26a moving inward in the axial direction D3. The elastic body 3 is compressed inward in the radial direction D1.

[0100] Figure 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the tire air inflation device 20 biased outward in the radial direction D1 within the recess 4. The tire air inflation device 20 is biased outward in the radial direction D1 by the force of the compressed elastic body 3 attempting to restore itself. The tire air inflation device 20 is pushed upward in the radial direction D1. The end 21e of the tire air inflation device 20 moves away from the central part 11 toward the rim 13. The end 26f of the housing 26a passes through the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13. The first nut 2a and the second nut 2b are fastened to the end 26f of the housing 26a to fix the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13. The cover 5 is attached so as to close the opening 12f of the spoke 12. After these steps, the series of steps for attaching the tire air inflation device 20 to the spoke 12 of the wheel 10 is completed.

[0101] Next, the effects and advantages obtained from the mounting structure 1 of the tire air inflation device according to this embodiment will be described. The mounting structure 1 comprises a fixing part 2 and an elastic body 3. The fixing part 2 fixes the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13 of the wheel 10. The elastic body 3 biases the tire air inflation device 20 toward the fixing part 2 outward in the radial direction D1 of the tire T. The fixing part 2 can fix the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13, and the elastic body 3 can maintain the state in which the tire air inflation device 20 is biased outward in the radial direction D1 of the tire T. By biasing the tire air inflation device 20 outward in the radial direction D1 of the tire T with the elastic body 3, vibration of the tire air inflation device 20 in directions other than the radial direction D1 of the tire T can be suppressed when the automobile is running. The movement of the tire air inflation device 20 can be restricted to only the radial direction D1 of the tire T, and vibration of the tire air inflation device 20 in directions other than the radial direction D1 of the tire T can be suppressed. The tire air inflation device 20 can be stably held on the wheel 10.

[0102] The tire air inflation device 20 can be fixed to the wheel 10 by the fixing part 2 and the elastic body 3 without using fasteners such as clamps. This makes it easy to assemble the tire air inflation device 20 to the wheel 10.

[0103] The mounting structure 1 is recessed in the spokes 12 of the wheel 10 toward the inside of the wheel 10 and has a recess 4 for housing the tire air inflation device 20. The tire air inflation device 20 can be housed in the recess 4. The tire air inflation device 20 can be protected from rainwater and the like, and can also be protected from collisions with obstacles while driving. Damage to the tire air inflation device 20 can be suppressed.

[0104] The mounting structure 1 includes a cover 5 that covers the recess 4. The recess 4 can be covered by the cover 5. This prevents rainwater and other substances from entering the recess 4. Even if the wheel 10 collides with an obstacle, the tire air inflation device 20 housed in the recess 4 inside the cover 5 can be protected from the collision. Damage to the tire air inflation device 20 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0105] The fixing part 2 has a first nut 2a and a second nut 2b for fixing the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13. The tire air inflation device 20 has a housing 26a of a check valve 26 that contacts the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b. The tire air inflation device 20 is fixed to the rim 13 with the housing 26a in contact with the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b. Because the fixing part 2 has the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b which are metal members, and the housing 26a which is a metal part contacts the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b to fix the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13, the tire air inflation device 20 can be firmly fixed to the rim 13. Wear of the fixing part 2 due to vibration, etc. can be suppressed, and air leakage from the tire T can be suppressed more reliably.

[0106] The mounting structure 1 has a support portion 6 that supports the elastic body 3 at a position away from the fixing portion 2. The support portion 6 has a plurality of support pieces 6a that surround the elastic body 3. The elastic body 3 can be supported while being surrounded by the plurality of support pieces 6a of the support portion 6. Since the behavior of the elastic body 3 can be stabilized, vibrations applied to the tire air inflation device 20 can be suppressed more reliably. The tire air inflation device 20 can be held on the wheel 10 more reliably and stably.

[0107] The embodiments of the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device according to this disclosure have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention can be modified and altered in various ways within the scope of the gist described in the claims. That is, the shape, size, number, and arrangement of each part of the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device can be appropriately changed within the scope of the gist described above.

[0108] For example, in the embodiment described above, the cylinder 21 was described in an example having a flange portion 21b. However, the cylinder 21 does not have to have a flange portion 21b. For example, the cylinder may have a large diameter portion and a small diameter portion having a smaller outer diameter than the large diameter portion, and the small diameter portion may pass through the elastic body 3. The elastic body 3 may abut in the radial direction D1 at a stepped portion located between the small diameter portion and the large diameter portion. Even a tire air inflation device having the above-described cylinder can be biased outward in the radial direction D1.

[0109] In the embodiment described above, an example was given in which the elastic body 3 is a coil spring. However, the elastic body may be, for example, a leaf spring or a cushioning material. Even when a leaf spring or cushioning material is placed between the tire air inflation device 20 and the support part 6, the tire air inflation device 20 can be biased in the radial direction D1.

[0110] In the embodiment described above, an example was described in which the fixing part 2 has a first nut 2a and a second nut 2b. By having the fixing part 2 composed of double nuts, the tire air inflation device 20 can be fixed even more firmly. The fixing part may not have a first nut 2a and a second nut 2b. For example, the fixing part may be composed of a single nut, and an elastic body having a stronger biasing force than the elastic body 3 described above may be used to bias the tire air inflation device 20 outward in the radial direction D1. The tire air inflation device 20 can be firmly fixed. The mounting structure does not have to have a fixing part. By making the biasing force of the elastic body about the same as or greater than the axial force of the double nuts, the tire air inflation device 20 can be biased outward in the radial direction D1 and fixed to the wheel 10.

[0111] In the embodiments described above, an example was given in which the wheel 10 is made of metal. However, the wheel may be made of resin, and the material of the wheel is not particularly limited. The same applies to the material of the cover. For example, if the wheel and cover are made of resin, it is possible to reduce the weight of the wheel and cover.

[0112] In the embodiments described above, an example was described in which the support portion 6 has a plurality of support pieces 6a surrounding the elastic body 3. However, the support portion may have only one support piece. The support piece may be, for example, annular in shape. The annular support piece may surround the elastic body 3.

[0113] 1...Tire air inflation device mounting structure, 2...Fixing part, 2a...First nut, 2b...Second nut, 2c...Washer, 2d...O-ring, 2f...Female thread, 3...Elastic body, 3A...First part, 3B...Second part, 4...Recess, 5...Cover, 5a...Surface, 5b...Main body, 5c...Mounting part, 5d...Hooking part, 5e...First surface, 5f...Second surface, 5g...Third surface, 5h...Edge, 5k...Notch, 6...Support part, 6a...Support piece, 6b...First guide, 6c...Second guide, 6d...Space, 10...Wheel, 11...Center part, 11a...Through hole, 12...Spoke, 12a...Surface, 12b...Inner surface, 12c...Groove, 12d...Edge, 12e...C Bar support part, 12f...opening, 12g...face, 13...rim, 13a...valve insertion hole, 20...tire air filling device, 21...cylinder, 21a...outer surface, 21b...flange, 21c...opening, 21d...face, 21e...end, 22...weight, 23...vent filter, 24...spring for weight, 25...check valve, 26...check valve, 26a...housing, 26b...air hole, 26c...valve body, 26d...spring for check valve, 26e...check valve support part, 26f...end, 26h...male thread, D1...radial direction, D2...circumferential direction, D3...axial direction, T...tire, W1...width, W2, W3...distance.

Claims

1. A mounting structure for a tire air inflation device, which is provided on a wheel attached to a tire and compresses air to replenish the inside of the tire, comprising: a fixing part for fixing the tire air inflation device to the rim of the wheel; and an elastic body for biasing the tire air inflation device toward the fixing part and outward in the radial direction of the tire.

2. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1, wherein the spokes of the wheel are recessed toward the inside of the wheel and have a recess for housing the tire air inflation device.

3. The mounting structure for the tire air inflation device according to claim 2, comprising a cover that covers the recess.

4. The mounting structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fixing portion has a metal member for fixing the tire air inflation device to the rim, the tire air inflation device has a metal part that contacts the metal member, the metal part and the rim are in contact, and the tire air inflation device is fixed to the rim in a state where the metal member and the rim are in contact.

5. The mounting structure according to claim 4, further comprising a support portion that supports the elastic body at a position away from the fixed portion, wherein the support portion has a support piece that surrounds the elastic body.

6. The mounting structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the tire air inflation device has a cylinder that generates compressed air internally, the cylinder has a flange protruding from the outer circumferential surface of the cylinder, one end of the elastic body is in contact with the central part of the wheel, and the other end of the elastic body is in contact with the flange.

7. The mounting structure according to claim 4, wherein the metal member has a first nut and a second nut, and the first nut and the second nut are aligned in the radial direction.

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