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 space part 2 formed between a plurality of spokes 12 of the wheel 10 and in which the tire air filling device 20 is placed so as to extend from a rim 13 of the wheel 10; a fixing part 3 for fixing the tire air filling device 20 to the rim 13; and a contact member 4 interposed between the rim 13 of the wheel 10 and the tire air filling device 20.

Description

Mounting Structure of Tire Air Filling Device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mounting structure of a tire air filling device. This application claims priority based on Japanese Application No. 2024-228640 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 a 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. The mounting structure for the tire air inflation device is formed between a plurality of spokes of the wheel and comprises a space portion into which the tire air inflation device is positioned to extend from the rim of the wheel, a fixing portion for fixing the tire air inflation device to the rim, and an intervening member interposed between the rim of the wheel and the tire air inflation device.

[0010] The mounting structure of this tire air inflation device comprises a space, a fixing part, and an intervening member. The space is formed between multiple spokes of the wheel. The fixing part fixes the tire air inflation device to the rim of the wheel. The intervening member is interposed between the rim of the wheel and the tire air inflation device. The fixing part can fix the tire air inflation device to the rim, and the intervening member can support the tire air inflation device. Vibrations such as those caused by the vehicle during driving can be suppressed on the tire air inflation device. 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 intervening member without using fasteners such as clamps. Assembly of the tire air inflation device to the wheel becomes easier.

[0011] (2) In (1) above, the intervening member may be a contact member that contacts the rim while sandwiching the rim together with the fixing part. The contact member may protrude from the tire air inflation device. The tire air inflation device can be fixed to the rim at the fixing part, and the tire air inflation device can be supported by the contact member that contacts the rim.

[0012] (3) In (2) above, the contact member may include a cushioning material that contacts the rim. The cushioning material can absorb vibrations and the like applied to the tire air inflation device. The tire air inflation device can be held more securely and stably on the wheel.

[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.

[0014] (5) In any of (2) to (4) above, the contact member may protrude toward the inside of the wheel. The contact member can be positioned near the fixing part. By having the contact member protrude toward the inside of the wheel near the fixing part, it is possible to make the contact member come into contact with the rim.

[0015] (6) In any of (2) to (5) above, the contact member may be detachable from the tire air inflation device. By making the contact member detachable, a contact member that matches the shape of the rim can be attached to the tire air inflation device. This makes it easier to ensure that the contact member makes more reliable contact with the rim.

[0016] (7) In any of (1) to (6) above, the mounting structure of the tire air inflation device may include a cover that covers the space. The tire air inflation device can be covered by the cover. By covering the tire air inflation device with the cover, it is possible to prevent rainwater and the like from hitting the tire air inflation device. Even if the wheel collides with an obstacle, the tire air inflation device covered by the cover can be protected from the collision. Damage to the tire air inflation device can be more reliably suppressed.

[0017] (8) In any of (1) to (7) above, the intervening member may extend from the rim.

[0018] (9) In any of (2) to (8) above, the contact member may be separate from the tire air inflation device.

[0019] (10) In the above (9), the tire air inflation device may include a cylinder that generates compressed air internally and a check valve that prevents backflow of air from the tire into the cylinder. The contact member may have a mounting portion fixed between the check valve and the cylinder.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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 the first embodiment. This is a side view showing the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device. 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 perspective view showing the contact member together with the rim. This is a perspective view showing the contact member together with the tire air inflation device. This is a perspective view showing the wheel and tire with the cover attached. This is a perspective view showing the contact member provided in the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device according to the second embodiment. This is a perspective view showing the intervening member provided in the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device according to the third embodiment together with the rim.

[0022] 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.

[0023] (First Embodiment) 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. Figure 2 is a side view showing the mounting structure 1 for a tire air inflation device as seen along the axial direction D3. For example, a plurality of wheels 10 and a plurality of tires T are provided 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] "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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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. 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 axis of the valve insertion hole 13a is inclined with respect to the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3. The valve insertion hole 13a penetrates the rim 13 in a direction inclined with respect to the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3.

[0029] 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. On the wheel 10, for example, a balance weight may be installed on the side opposite to the tire air replenishment device 20. This improves the balance of the weights of the tire T and the wheel 10, thereby stabilizing the rotation of the tire T and the wheel 10.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting structure 1 of the tire air inflation device. Figure 3 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] The cylinder 21 has an outer circumferential surface 21a 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.

[0035] 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 (the axial direction in which the axis of the cylinder 21 extends). 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.

[0036] A nozzle for supplying air to the tire T may be connected to the opening 21c. For example, such a nozzle may be installed at a gas station or the like. The opening 21c may also function as a connection point to which an air supply nozzle is connected. The opening 21c may also function as a valve. Air can be forcibly supplied to the tire air supply device 20 and the tire T through the opening 21c.

[0037] The outer diameter of one end 21e of the cylinder 21 is larger than the outer diameter of the portion of the cylinder 21 excluding the end 21e. The end 21e of the cylinder 21 may be a separate part from the portion of the cylinder 21 excluding the end 21e.

[0038] The vent filter 23 is, for example, a filter that allows gas to pass through but not liquids and solids. The vent filter 23 covers the opening 21c. The vent filter 23 is, for example, disc-shaped. 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] Between the weight 22 and the cylinder 21, a plurality (in one example, two) of airtight members for the weight may be interposed. The airtight members for the weight ensure the airtightness between the weight 22 and the cylinder 21. The airtight members for the weight are, for example, Y-shaped packings.

[0041] The weight 22 is, for example, cylindrical. The weight 22 is, for example, composed of a material containing tungsten. The weight 22 may be composed of tungsten or a tungsten alloy. The weight 22 is, for example, a high specific gravity material having a higher specific gravity than the cylinder 21.

[0042] When the weight 22 is a high specific gravity material, the mass of the weight 22 can be increased while realizing a reduction in the diameter of the weight 22. The reciprocating movement of the weight 22 in the radial direction D1 (the axial direction of the cylinder 21) accompanying the centrifugal force can be sufficiently performed, and the supply of air to the tire T can be more sufficiently performed.

[0043] 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 disposed inside the cylinder 21. The weight spring 24 is arranged alongside the weight 22. The weight spring 24 is arranged so as to extend from the weight 22 to the side opposite to the opening 21c.

[0044] The weight spring 24 is capable of expanding and contracting 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 side opposite to the opening 21c of the cylinder 21.

[0045] The backflow prevention valve 25 prevents the backflow of air inside the cylinder 21. The backflow prevention valve 25 is located between the weight 22 and the weight spring 24. The backflow prevention valve 25 extends in the radial direction D1 (the axial direction of the cylinder 21). The backflow prevention valve 25 allows the flow of air from the weight 22 to the tire T and restricts the flow of air in the opposite direction.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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 in the radial direction D1 (axial direction of the cylinder 21) with respect to the cylinder 21. The check valve 26 is attached on the side opposite to the vent filter 23 when viewed from the cylinder 21.

[0048] The check valve 26 is attached to the rim 13. The check valve 26 is inserted through the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13. The check valve 26 extends in a direction inclined with respect to the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3. The axis of the check valve 26 is inclined with respect to the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3. 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.

[0049] The check valve 26 extends obliquely from the end portion 21f of the cylinder 21. The end portion 21f is the end portion opposite to the end portion 21e of the cylinder 21 to which the vent filter 23 is attached. The check valve 26 is inclined in the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3 when attached to the wheel 10. The axis of the inclined check valve 26 coincides with the direction of the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13. The check valve 26 can be inserted through the valve insertion hole 13a.

[0050] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the check valve 26 of the tire air inflation device 20 and the fixing part 3 of the mounting structure 1. Figure 4 shows cross-sections along the radial direction D1 and axial direction D3 (cross-sections perpendicular to the circumferential direction D2). The check valve 26 has a metal housing 26a, a valve body 26c, a check valve spring 26d, and a check valve support part 26e.

[0051] 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 26j is formed on the end 26f of the housing 26a. The male thread 26j is formed on the surface of the housing 26a along an axis centered on the axis of the check valve 26.

[0052] 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 check valve 26. Air passes through the air vent 26b from the internal space of the cylinder 21 to the space in which the valve body 26c is located.

[0053] 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 in the axial direction of the check valve 26.

[0054] The valve body 26c is movable in the axial direction of the check valve 26. When the valve body 26c moves toward the air hole 26b, the air hole 26b is closed. Conversely, when the valve body 26c moves toward the tire T, the air hole 26b is opened.

[0055] 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.

[0056] The check valve spring 26d biases the valve body 26c toward the air hole 26b (for example toward the cylinder 21). The check valve spring 26d is positioned to surround the valve body 26c. The check valve spring 26d is positioned to extend in the axial direction of the check valve 26.

[0057] The check valve spring 26d is designed to be expandable and contractible in the axial direction of the check valve 26. 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3, the mounting structure 1 comprises a space 2, a fixing part 3, and a contact member 4, which is an example of an intervening member. The space 2 is formed between a plurality of spokes 12 of the wheel 10. The space 2 is a space defined by a central part 11, two spokes 12, and a rim 13.

[0061] The tire air inflation device 20 is located in the space 2. The tire air inflation device 20 is positioned in the space 2 so as to extend radially inward D1 from the rim 13 of the wheel 10. The mounting structure 1 has a plurality of (five in one example) space 2s. The plurality of space 2s are arranged along the circumferential direction D2. For example, one tire air inflation device 20 is located in one space 2. The space 2s are sized to accommodate the tire air inflation device 20.

[0062] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the fixing part 3 secures the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13 of the wheel 10. The fixing part 3 includes a first nut 3a and a second nut 3b, which are metal members, a washer 3c, and an O-ring 3d.

[0063] The first nut 3a and the second nut 3b secure the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13. The first nut 3a and the second nut 3b are made of metal. The first nut 3a and the second nut 3b are attached to the tire T-side end 26f of the housing 26a. The first nut 3a and the second nut 3b are aligned radially D1. The first nut 3a and the second nut 3b form a double nut.

[0064] The first nut 3a and the second nut 3b are screwed onto the end 26f of the housing 26a. Inside the first nut 3a and the second nut 3b, there is a female thread 3f that screws onto the male thread 26j 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 3a and the second nut 3b to the male thread 26j of the housing 26a.

[0065] The housing 26a contacts the first nut 3a and the second nut 3b. With the housing 26a in contact with the first nut 3a and the second nut 3b, 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 3a and the second nut 3b and the rim 13 in contact, the tire air inflation device 20 is fixed to the rim 13.

[0066] The housing 26a, which is a metal part, comes into contact with the first nut 3a and the second nut 3b, 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.

[0067] The washer 3c is installed between the second nut 3b and the rim 13. The washer 3c is in contact with the second nut 3b and the rim 13. The washer 3c is annular in shape. The end portion 26f of the housing 26a is inserted through the washer 3c. The cross-section of the washer 3c along the axial direction D3 is, for example, L-shaped. The washer 3c has a gap between the rim 13 and the housing 26a, and an O-ring 3d is placed in this gap. The washer 3c is made of, for example, metal.

[0068] The O-ring 3d is installed, for example, between the washer 3c and the rim 13. The fixing part 3 has a plurality of O-rings 3d (two in one example). The O-rings 3d are located in recesses of the housing 26a. The recesses of the housing 26a face the rim 13. The plurality of O-rings 3d are arranged along directions inclined with respect to the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3. The O-rings 3d ensure airtightness of the air inside the tire T.

[0069] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the contact member 4 together with the rim 13. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the contact member 4 together with the tire air inflation device 20. The mounting structure 1 includes, for example, a contact member 4 which is an interposing member interposed between the rim 13 of the wheel 10 and the tire air inflation device 20. The contact member 4 contacts the rim 13 while sandwiching the rim 13 together with the fixing part 3.

[0070] The contact member 4 is a component that holds the tire air inflation device 20 on the wheel 10 by contacting the rim 13. By the contact member 4 contacting the rim 13, the rotation of the tire air inflation device 20 can be suppressed. The contact member 4 protrudes from the tire air inflation device 20. The contact member 4 protrudes toward the inside of the wheel 10.

[0071] Because the mounting structure 1 includes a fixing part 3 and a contact member 4, the tire air inflation device 20 can be easily attached to the wheel 10. Processing of the wheel 10 for attaching the tire air inflation device 20 can be omitted. The tire air inflation device 20 can be attached without changing the shape of the wheel 10.

[0072] The contact member 4 comprises a protrusion 4a and a cushioning material 4b. The protrusion 4a is located closer to the check valve 26 than to the center of the cylinder 21. The protrusion 4a is located near the fixed part 3 (see Figure 3). The protrusion 4a is provided on the check valve 26. The protrusion 4a is adjacent to the check valve 26. The protrusion 4a protrudes from the tire air inflation device 20. The protrusion 4a protrudes from the housing 26a of the check valve 26.

[0073] The housing 26a has a first portion 26g and a second portion 26h. The first portion 26g is the portion inclined with respect to the axis of the cylinder 21. The second portion 26h is the portion along the axis of the cylinder 21. The projection 4a protrudes from the boundary 26k between the first portion 26g and the second portion 26h of the housing 26a. The projection 4a protrudes in a direction that intersects (for example, perpendicular to) the axis of the cylinder 21. The projection 4a protrudes on the same side as the direction in which the first portion 26g of the housing 26a extends.

[0074] When the tire air inflation device 20 is attached to the wheel 10, the protruding portion 4a protrudes in the axial direction D3. The protruding portion 4a protrudes toward the inside of the wheel 10. The protruding portion 4a protrudes toward the rim 13. The protruding portion 4a is, for example, integrated with the housing 26a. The protruding portion 4a is made of the same material as the housing 26a. The protruding portion 4a is made of a metal such as aluminum.

[0075] The protruding portion 4a is, for example, plate-shaped. The protruding portion 4a extends in the axial direction D3. The protruding portion 4a extends to a position where it aligns with the surface 13b of the rim 13 in the radial direction D1. Surface 13b is the surface of the rim 13 facing inward in the radial direction D1. The length of the protruding portion 4a in the axial direction D3 is the length from the housing 26a (boundary 26k) to the position where it aligns with the surface 13b of the rim 13 in the radial direction D1.

[0076] The length of the projection 4a in the circumferential direction D2 is, for example, about the same as the outer diameter of the cylinder 21. Sufficient strength of the contact member 4 in the circumferential direction D2 can be obtained. The length of the projection 4a in the circumferential direction D2 is large enough to fix the tire air inflation device 20 to the wheel 10. The thickness of the projection 4a is sufficient to fix the tire air inflation device 20 to the wheel 10.

[0077] The cushioning material 4b absorbs vibrations and the like applied to the tire air inflation device 20. The cushioning material 4b may also function as a member that fills the gap between the protrusion 4a and the rim 13. The cushioning material 4b is positioned radially outward D1 relative to the protrusion 4a. The cushioning material 4b faces the rim 13. The cushioning material 4b is located closer to the rim 13 than the protrusion 4a. The cushioning material 4b is adjacent to the protrusion 4a. The cushioning material 4b is fixed to the protrusion 4a.

[0078] The cushioning material 4b is fixed to the fixing surface 4c of the protruding portion 4a. The fixing surface 4c is the surface of the protruding portion 4a facing outward in the radial direction D1. The cushioning material 4b is, for example, in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The cushioning material 4b has a first surface 4d which is the surface of the cushioning material 4b facing inward in the radial direction D1. The first surface 4d of the cushioning material 4b is fixed to the fixing surface 4c of the protruding portion 4a.

[0079] The circumferential length D2 of the cushioning material 4b is, for example, the same as the circumferential length D2 of the protrusion 4a. The axial length D3 of the cushioning material 4b is shorter than the axial length D3 of the protrusion 4a. The thickness of the cushioning material 4b is, for example, about the same as the thickness of the protrusion 4a. The cushioning material 4b is made of, for example, an elastic material. In one example, the cushioning material 4b is made of a rubber sheet or vibration-damping rubber.

[0080] The cushioning material 4b is aligned with the protrusion 4a. The cushioning material 4b is positioned at the end 4e of the protrusion 4a opposite to the boundary 26k. The end face 4f of the cushioning material 4b, which faces the axial direction D3, is aligned with, for example, the end face 4g of the protrusion 4a, which also faces the axial direction D3. For example, the end face 4f of the cushioning material 4b is flush with the end face 4g of the protrusion 4a.

[0081] The cushioning material 4b is positioned between the surface 13b of the rim 13 and the fixed surface 4c of the protrusion 4a. The contact member 4 (cushioning material 4b) contacts the rim 13 by sandwiching it together with the fixed part 3. Along the radial direction D1, the rim 13, cushioning material 4b, and protrusion 4a are arranged in this order.

[0082] The cushioning material 4b has a second surface 4h. The second surface 4h is the surface of the cushioning material 4b facing outward in the radial direction D1. The second surface 4h of the cushioning material 4b is in contact with the surface 13b of the rim 13. When the check valve 26 is inserted through the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13 and the first nut 3a and the second nut 3b are fastened to the end 26f of the housing 26a of the check valve 26, the cushioning material 4b is tightened outward in the radial direction D1 by the protrusion 4a.

[0083] The second surface 4h of the cushioning material 4b may be flexibly deformed to match the shape of the surface 13b of the rim 13. The contact member 4 can be made to adhere more securely to the rim 13. The gap between the contact member 4 and the rim 13 can be filled. The vibrations of the wheel 10 can be absorbed more reliably by the cushioning material 4b.

[0084] The presence of a cushioning material 4b in the contact member 4 reduces the load applied to the tire air inflation device 20. When the contact member 4 contacts the rim 13 due to the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the wheel 10 and tire T, the presence of the cushioning material 4b in the contact member 4 distributes the load applied to the fixing part 3. This allows for more reliable suppression of air leakage from the tire T. The durability of the fixing part 3 and the check valve 26 can be maintained.

[0085] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the wheel 10 and tire T with the cover 5 attached. The mounting structure 1 includes a cover 5 that covers the space 2. The cover 5 is attached to the wheel 10. The cover 5 is, for example, plate-shaped. The shape of the cover 5 is determined by the shape formed by the edge 2a of the space 2.

[0086] The cover 5 fits into the space 2. The cover 5 has a surface 5a. The spokes 12 have a surface 12a. When the cover 5 is attached to the wheel 10, for example, the surface 5a of the cover 5 is flush with the surface 12a of the spokes 12.

[0087] The mounting structure 1 includes a plurality of covers 5 (five in this example). The plurality of covers 5 are arranged along the circumferential direction D2. In this embodiment, five covers 5 are attached to one wheel. All of the space 2 is covered by the covers 5.

[0088] By attaching the cover 5 to the wheel 10, the tire air inflation device 20 can be shielded from the outside. The tire air inflation device 20 can be protected from rainwater and other elements, and contamination of the tire air inflation device 20 can be suppressed. By attaching the cover 5 to the wheel 10, the aesthetic design of the wheel 10 can be improved. The cover 5 can reduce air resistance and wind noise at the wheel 10 when the vehicle is in motion. The cover 5 is made of the same material as the wheel 10, for example. The cover 5 is made of metal, for example.

[0089] Next, the effects and advantages obtained from the mounting structure 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The mounting structure 1 comprises a space portion 2, a fixing portion 3, and a contact member 4. The space portion 2 is formed between a plurality of spokes 12 of the wheel 10. The fixing portion 3 fixes the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13 of the wheel 10. The contact member 4 protrudes from the tire air inflation device 20. The contact member 4, together with the fixing portion 3, contacts the rim 13 while sandwiching the rim 13. The tire air inflation device 20 can be fixed to the rim 13 by the fixing portion 3, and the tire air inflation device 20 can also be fixed by the contact member 4 that contacts the rim 13. Vibrations such as those caused by the vehicle during driving can be suppressed on the tire air inflation device 20. The tire air inflation device 20 can be stably fixed to the wheel 10.

[0090] The tire air inflation device 20 can be fixed to the wheel 10 by the fixing part 3 and the contact member 4 without using fasteners such as clamps. This makes it easy to assemble the tire air inflation device 20 to the wheel 10.

[0091] The contact member 4 may include a cushioning material 4b that contacts the rim 13. The cushioning material 4b can absorb vibrations and other forces applied to the tire air inflation device 20. This allows the tire air inflation device 20 to be held more securely and stably on the wheel 10.

[0092] The fixing part 3 has a first nut 3a and a second nut 3b 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 3a and the second nut 3b. The tire air inflation device 20 is fixed to the rim 13 with the housing 26a of the check valve 26 in contact with the first nut 3a and the second nut 3b. Because the fixing part 3 has the first nut 3a and the second nut 3b which are metal members, and the housing 26a which is a metal part contacts the first nut 3a and the second nut 3b, thereby fixing 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 3 due to vibration, etc. can be suppressed, and air leakage from the tire T can be suppressed more reliably.

[0093] The contact member 4 may protrude inward from the wheel 10. The contact member 4 can be positioned near the fixing portion 3. By having the contact member 4 protrude inward from the wheel 10 near the fixing portion 3, it is possible to make the contact member 4 contact the rim 13.

[0094] The mounting structure 1 includes a cover 5 that covers the space 2. The tire air inflation device 20 can be covered by the cover 5. By covering the tire air inflation device 20 with the cover 5, it is possible to prevent rainwater and other elements from hitting the tire air inflation device 20. Even if the wheel 10 collides with an obstacle, the tire air inflation device 20, which is covered by the cover 5, can be protected from the collision. Damage to the tire air inflation device 20 can be more reliably prevented.

[0095] (Second Embodiment) Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the contact member 4A of the mounting structure 1A of the tire air inflation device according to the second embodiment together with the tire air inflation device 20A. The mounting structure 1A according to the second embodiment differs from the mounting structure 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes the contact member 4A.

[0096] Mounting structure 1A differs from mounting structure 1 in that it is the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device 20A. The other components of mounting structure 1A are the same as those of mounting structure 1, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0097] The check valve 26A of the tire air inflation device 20A has a housing 26Aa. The housing 26Aa has a first portion 26Ag. The first portion 26Ag is inclined with respect to the axis of the cylinder 21 of the tire air inflation device 20A. Other aspects of the first portion 26Ag are the same as those of the first portion 26g of the first embodiment. The housing 26Aa does not have a portion along the axis of the cylinder 21.

[0098] The contact member 4A is separate from the tire air inflation device 20A. The contact member 4A is located between the check valve 26A and the cylinder 21. For example, the tire air inflation device 20A is assembled with the contact member 4A located between the check valve 26A and the cylinder 21.

[0099] The contact member 4A has a mounting portion 4k in addition to the protruding portion 4a and the cushioning material 4b. The mounting portion 4k is fixed between the check valve 26A and the cylinder 21. The mounting portion 4k is aligned with the protruding portion 4a. The mounting portion 4k is located radially inward D1 from the protruding portion 4a. The mounting portion 4k is adjacent to the protruding portion 4a. The mounting portion 4k may be integrated with the protruding portion 4a.

[0100] The mounting portion 4k is, for example, cylindrical (in one example, cylindrical). A donut plate may be provided inside the mounting portion 4k. The height of the mounting portion 4k is shorter than the outer diameter of the mounting portion 4k. The mounting portion 4k may be attached to the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21. The mounting portion 4k has a surface 4m. The surface 4m is the surface of the mounting portion 4k that faces the axial direction of the cylinder 21. The protruding portion 4a protrudes from the center of the surface 4m of the mounting portion 4k.

[0101] The contact member 4A is detachable from the tire air inflation device 20A. The contact member 4A may be attached between the check valve 26A and the cylinder 21 by assembling the tire air inflation device 20A, or the contact member 4A may be removed from between the check valve 26A and the cylinder 21 by disassembling the tire air inflation device 20A.

[0102] The mounting portion 4k may be movable along the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21, for example. The contact member 4A does not have to be fixed between the check valve 26A and the cylinder 21. For example, a first screw may be provided on the surface of the housing 26Aa. A second screw that engages with the first screw of the housing 26Aa may be provided on the inside of the mounting portion 4k.

[0103] For example, the contact member 4A may be attached to the tire air inflation device 20A by passing the end 26f of the housing 26Aa through the mounting portion 4k and screwing it in, or it may be attached to the tire air inflation device 20A by first removing the end 21e of the cylinder 21 and then passing the end of the cylinder 21 opposite to the check valve 26A through the mounting portion 4k and screwing it in. When removing the contact member 4A from the tire air inflation device 20A, the reverse operation is performed.

[0104] In the contact member 4A, the protruding portion 4a may be shaped to match the surface 13b of the rim 13. Multiple protruding portions 4a shaped to match the surface 13b of the rim 13 may be prepared in advance. The contact member 4A (protruding portion 4a) may be replaceable to match the shape of the surface 13b of the rim 13.

[0105] The protruding portion 4a is shaped to match the surface 13b of the rim 13, making it easier to bring the contact member 4A into contact with the rim 13. By making it easier for the contact member 4A to contact the rim 13, damage to the second surface 4h of the cushioning material 4b can be reduced. The durability of the cushioning material 4b can be maintained.

[0106] In the mounting structure 1A according to the second embodiment, the contact member 4A is detachable from the tire air inflation device 20A. The mounting structure 1A can be equipped with a contact member 4A that matches the shape of the rim 13. This makes it easier to ensure that the contact member 4A makes reliable contact with the rim 13.

[0107] (Third Embodiment) Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the intervening member 6, which is part of the mounting structure 1B of the tire air inflation device according to the third embodiment, together with the rim 13. The mounting structure 1B includes the intervening member 6. The intervening member 6 is interposed between the rim 13 of the wheel 10 and the tire air inflation device 20. The intervening member 6 is integral with the wheel 10. The intervening member 6 extends from the rim 13. One end 6a of the intervening member 6 extends from the surface 13b of the rim 13. The other end 6b of the intervening member 6 extends to the housing 26a. The radial length D1 of the one end 6a is longer than the radial length D1 of the other end 6b.

[0108] In the mounting structure 1B according to the third embodiment, the intervening member 6 is interposed between the rim 13 of the wheel 10 and the tire air inflation device 20. The tire air inflation device 20 can be fixed to the rim 13 at the fixing part 3, and the tire air inflation device 20 can be supported by the intervening member 6. Vibrations such as those caused by the vehicle during driving can be suppressed on the tire air inflation device 20. The tire air inflation device 20 can be stably held on the wheel 10.

[0109] 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.

[0110] For example, in the embodiment described above, an example was described in which the tire air inflation device 20 is located in the space 2. However, the tire air inflation device may also be located inside the spokes of the wheel. 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 may have a recess for housing the tire air inflation device.

[0111] In the embodiments described above, an example was described in which multiple covers 5 are attached to the wheel 10. However, one cover 5 may be attached to the wheel 10. Also, in the embodiments described above, an example was described in which five covers 5 are attached to one wheel 10. However, four or fewer covers 5 may be attached to the wheel 10.

[0112] In the embodiment described above, an example was described in which multiple covers 5 are attached to the wheel 10. However, the wheel 10 does not necessarily have to have covers 5 attached to it, and the wheel 10 may have a single cover attached that covers the entire wheel 10 from the axial direction D3.

[0113] In the embodiments described above, an example was described in which the contact member 4 is provided with a cushioning material 4b. However, the contact member does not have to be provided with a cushioning material 4b. For example, the contact member may be provided with a film instead of a cushioning material 4b. By providing the film, the gap between the contact member and the rim 13 is filled, and the shape of the contact member can be matched to the shape of the rim 13, making it easier to bring the contact member into contact with the rim 13.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 1, 1A, 1B... Mounting structure for tire air inflation device, 2... Space, 2a... Edge, 3... Fixing part, 3a... First nut, 3b... Second nut, 3c... Washer, 3d... O-ring, 3f... Female thread, 4, 4A... Contact member, 4a... Protrusion, 4b... Cushioning material, 4c... Fixing surface, 4d... First surface, 4e... End, 4f... End face, 4g... End face, 4h... Second surface, 4k... Mounting part, 4m... Surface, 5... Cover, 5a... Surface, 6... Intervening member, 6a... One end, 6b... Other end, 10... Wheel, 11... Center part, 11a... Through hole, 12... Spoke, 12a... Surface, 13... Rim, 13a... Valve insertion hole, 13b... Surface , 20, 20A... Tire air inflation device, 21... Cylinder, 21a... Outer surface, 21c... Opening, 21e... End, 21f... End, 22... Weight, 23... Vent filter, 24... Spring for weight, 25... Backflow prevention valve, 26, 26A... Check valve, 26a, 26Aa... Housing, 26b... Air hole, 26c... Valve body, 26d... Spring for check valve, 26e... Check valve support, 26f... End, 26g, 26Ag... First part, 26h... Second part, 26j... Male screw, 26k... Boundary, D1... Radial direction, D2... Circumferential direction, D3... Axial direction, T... Tire.

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 space formed between a plurality of spokes of the wheel, on which the tire air inflation device is positioned to extend from the rim of the wheel; a fixing portion for fixing the tire air inflation device to the rim; and an intervening member interposed between the rim of the wheel and the tire air inflation device.

2. The intervening member is a contact member that contacts the rim while sandwiching the rim together with the fixing portion, and the contact member protrudes from the tire air inflation device, the mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1.

3. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 2, wherein the contact member comprises a cushioning material that contacts the rim.

4. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, 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 for a tire air inflation device according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the contact member protrudes toward the inside of the wheel.

6. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the contact member is detachably attached to the tire air inflation device.

7. A mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, comprising a cover that covers the space.

8. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1, wherein the intervening member extends from the rim.

9. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 2, wherein the contact member is separate from the tire air inflation device.

10. The mounting structure for the tire air inflation device according to claim 9, wherein the tire air inflation device comprises a cylinder that generates compressed air internally, and a check valve that prevents backflow of air from the tire into the cylinder, and the contact member has a mounting portion fixed between the check valve and the cylinder.

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