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; a protruding part 3 that protrudes from an outer peripheral surface 21a of a cylinder 21 of the tire air filling device 20; and a first contact part 5 formed on the wheel 10 and against which the protruding part 3 abuts along 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. 2024-228646 filed on December 25, 2024, and incorporates all the descriptions described in the said 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 the first engaging portion and the 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. When tire inflation devices are attached to the wheel without using fasteners, there is room for improvement in terms of stability when the tire inflation device is held to the wheel. If fasteners are not used, the cylinder of the tire inflation device is not supported, and the load may concentrate on the check valve attached to the wheel. This concentration of load on the check valve may reduce the durability of the tire inflation device.

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

[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 comprises a fixing part for fixing the tire air inflation device to the rim of the wheel, a protruding part that protrudes from the surface of the tire air inflation device, and a first contact part formed on the wheel and in contact with the protruding part along the radial direction of the tire.

[0010] The mounting structure of this tire air inflation device comprises a fixing part, a protruding part, and a first contact part. The fixing part fixes the tire air inflation device to the rim of the wheel. The protruding part protrudes from the surface of the tire air inflation device. The protruding part contacts the first contact part radially. When the vehicle is in motion, a centrifugal force directed outward in the radial direction of the tire is applied to the tire air inflation device attached to the wheel. The protruding part of the tire air inflation device contacts the first contact part. By fixing the fixing part to the rim and having the protruding part contact the first contact part radially, vibrations in directions other than the radial direction applied to the tire air inflation device can be suppressed. The tire air inflation device can be stably held on the wheel. The load applied to the fixing part is distributed by the protruding part contacting the first contact part. Wear of the fixing part can be suppressed, and the durability of the tire air inflation device can be maintained.

[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 may have a recess for housing the tire air inflation device. The first contact portion may be located inside the recess. The tire air inflation device is housed in the recess. The first contact portion is provided 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 first contact portion may be a plate-like shape extending in a direction intersecting the radial direction. The shape of the first contact portion can be a simple shape.

[0013] (4) In any of (1) to (3) above, the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device may include a second contact portion formed on the wheel at a position different from the first contact portion, and an elastic body interposed between the tire air inflation device and the second contact portion. The elastic body can fill the gap between the tire air inflation device and the second contact portion. The tire air inflation device and the second contact portion can be reliably brought into contact via the elastic body, and the tire air inflation device can be held on the wheel more reliably and stably.

[0014] (5) In any of (1) to (4) 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 the fixing part have a metal member and the metal part contacting the metal member to fix the tire air inflation device to the rim, the fixing of the tire air inflation device to the rim can be made stronger. Wear of the fixing part due to vibration, etc. can be suppressed. Tire air leakage can be suppressed more reliably.

[0015] (6) In any of (1) to (5) above, the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device may include a cover that covers the recess. 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 housed in the recess inside the cover can be protected from the collision. Damage to the tire air inflation device can be more reliably prevented.

[0016] (7) In (6) above, the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device may have a cover projection that protrudes from the back surface of the cover and sandwiches the protruding portion radially together with the first contact portion. The protruding portion of the tire air inflation device can be sandwiched between the first contact portion and the cover projection. The protruding portion can be supported from both sides in the radial direction of the tire by the first contact portion and the cover projection, and the tire air inflation device can be reliably and stably held by the wheel.

[0017] (8) In any of (1) to (7) above, the first contact portion may have a notch cut out from the edge of the first contact portion toward the center in the direction along the central axis of the wheel.

[0018] (9) In any of (1) to (8) above, 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 check valve may extend inclined from the end of the cylinder.

[0019] (10) In (6) or (7) above, the cover may have mounting parts for attaching the cover to the spokes.

[0020] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a mounting structure for a tire air inflation device that can be held stably while maintaining durability.

[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 an embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting structure for the tire air inflation device. This is a perspective view showing the tire air inflation device removed from the spokes and the recess. 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 that covers the recess. This is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting portion of the cover.

[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] 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.

[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 (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 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. 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.

[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 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.

[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] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] When the weight 22 is made of a high specific gravity material, it is possible to increase the mass of the weight 22 while realizing a reduction in the diameter of the weight 22. The reciprocating motion of the weight 22 in the radial direction D1 (the axial direction of the cylinder 21) associated with the centrifugal force can be sufficiently performed, and the supply of air to the tire T can be more sufficiently performed.

[0041] 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.

[0042] The weight spring 24 is made stretchable and contractible 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] An airtight member for the backflow prevention valve may be interposed between the backflow prevention valve 25 and the weight 22. The airtight member for the backflow prevention valve ensures airtightness between the backflow prevention valve 25 and the weight 22. The airtight member for the backflow prevention valve is, for example, an O-ring. For example, one airtight member for the backflow prevention valve is disposed between the backflow prevention valve 25 and the weight 22.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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 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.

[0047] The check valve 26 extends obliquely from the end 21f of the cylinder 21. The end 21f is the end opposite to the end 21e of the cylinder 21 where the vent filter 23 is attached. When the check valve 26 is attached to the wheel 10, it is inclined with respect to the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3. The axis of the inclined check valve 26 coincides with the orientation of the opening surface of the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13. The check valve 26 can be easily inserted into the valve insertion hole 13a.

[0048] The check valve 26 has a housing 26a which is a metal part and a valve body part 26c. The housing 26a covers the valve body part 26c, the check valve spring 26d, and the check valve support part 26e. The housing 26a is made of metal. The housing 26a is constituted by, for example, aluminum.

[0049] The end 26f of the housing 26a on the side opposite to the cylinder 21 is, for example, cylindrical (in one example, circular cylindrical). A male screw 26h is formed on the end 26f of the housing 26a. The male screw 26h is formed along the circumference of the axis centered on the axis of the check valve 26 on the surface of the housing 26a.

[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 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.

[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 in the axial direction of the check valve 26.

[0052] 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.

[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 mounting structure 1 comprises a fixing part 2, a protruding part 3, a recessed part 4, and a first contact part 5. The fixing part 2 fixes the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13 of the wheel 10. The fixing part 2 includes a first nut 2a and a second nut 2b, which are metal members, a washer 2c, and an O-ring 2d.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] The O-ring 2d is installed, for example, between the washer 2c and the rim 13. The fixing part 2 has a plurality of O-rings 2d (two in one example). The O-rings 2d are arranged in recesses in the radial direction D1 of the housing 26a. The recesses of the housing 26a face the rim 13. The plurality of O-rings 2d are arranged along directions inclined with respect to the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3. The O-rings 2d ensure airtightness of the air inside the tire T.

[0061] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the tire air inflation device 20 removed from the spoke 12 and the recess 4. The protrusion 3 protrudes from the surface of the tire air inflation device 20. The protrusion 3 is provided on the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21. The protrusion 3 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21.

[0062] The protrusion 3 is located in the cylinder 21 at a position offset to one side from the center in the radial direction D1 (axial direction of the cylinder 21). The protrusion 3 is located in the cylinder 21 on the opposite side from the check valve 26. The protrusion 3 is located in the cylinder 21 closer to the end 21e where the vent filter 23 is attached than to the center.

[0063] The projection 3 is, for example, annular in shape. The projection 3 extends along an axis centered on the axis of the cylinder 21. The projection 3 extends so as to surround the cylinder 21. The outer diameter of the projection 3 is larger than the outer diameter of the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21.

[0064] The protruding portion 3 has a first contact surface 3a facing outward in the radial direction D1 (axial direction of the cylinder 21). The first contact surface 3a is the surface that contacts the first contact portion 5. The difference between the outer diameter of the first contact surface 3a and the inner diameter of the first contact surface 3a is sufficient to allow the first contact portion 5 to make contact.

[0065] 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 from the spoke 12 of the wheel 10. The recess 4 is located 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] For example, the circumferential length D2 of the recess 4 is longer 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 opening surface of the valve insertion hole 13a faces the recess 4. The tire air inflation device 20 (check valve 26) can be easily inserted into the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13.

[0068] The first contact portion 5 is the portion of the tire T that the projection 3 contacts along the radial direction D1. The first contact portion 5 may also contact the cylinder 21 of the tire air inflation device 20. The first contact portion 5 is, for example, plate-shaped. The first contact portion 5 extends in a direction intersecting the radial direction D1. The first contact portion 5 extends in the circumferential direction D2 and the axial direction D3. The length of the first contact portion 5 in the circumferential direction D2 is, for example, the width of the recess 4 in the circumferential direction D2. The length of the first contact portion 5 in the axial direction D3 is greater than the difference between the outer diameter of the first contact surface 3a and the inner diameter of the first contact surface 3a.

[0069] The first contact portion 5 is formed on the wheel 10. The first contact portion 5 is located inside the recess 4. The first contact portion 5 is positioned so that the protruding portion 3 can contact it. The first contact portion 5 protrudes from the first inner surface 12b and the second inner surface 12h of the spoke 12 into the internal space of the recess 4.

[0070] The first inner surface 12b and the second inner surface 12h are surfaces of the spoke 12 that define the recess 4. The first inner surface 12b faces in the circumferential direction D2 and extends in the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3. The second inner surface 12h faces in the axial direction D3 and extends in the radial direction D1 and the circumferential direction D2. The first contact portion 5 protrudes from the second inner surface 12h (the bottom surface of the recess 4).

[0071] The first contact portion 5 has a notch 5b. The notch 5b is formed on the edge 5a of the first contact portion 5. For example, the notch 5b is located in the center of the edge 5a. The notch 5b is cut out from the edge 5a of the first contact portion 5 toward the center in the axial direction D3 of the first contact portion 5. The notch 5b is, for example, arc-shaped. The shape of the notch 5b may follow the shape of the outer circumferential surface 21a of the tire air filling device 20.

[0072] The first contact portion 5 has a second contact surface 5c that faces inward in the radial direction D1. The second contact surface 5c is the surface that faces the central portion 11 of the wheel 10. The first contact surface 3a of the protruding portion 3 comes into contact with the second contact surface 5c.

[0073] Figure 4 is a side view showing the mounting structure 1 with the cover 8, which will be described later, removed. As shown in Figure 4, the protruding portion 3 is located radially inward D1 from the first contact portion 5. The protruding portion 3 contacts the first contact portion 5 along the radial direction D1. The first contact surface 3a of the protruding portion 3 contacts the second contact surface 5c of the first contact portion 5 along the radial direction D1.

[0074] When the vehicle is in motion, the rotation of the tire T and wheel 10 applies a centrifugal force to the tire air inflation device 20, directed outward in the radial direction D1. A force acts outward in the radial direction D1 on the projection 3 provided on the cylinder 21. Since the fixing part 2 is fixed to the rim 13 and the projection 3 abuts against the first contact part 5, the outward movement of the projection 3 in the radial direction D1 is restricted. The projection 3 receives a resistance force from the first contact part 5 by abutting against it. The projection 3 is supported by the first contact part 5. The tire air inflation device 20 is stably held on the wheel 10 by the fixing part 2 and the projection 3.

[0075] The protruding portion 3 contacts the first contact portion 5, thereby distributing the load applied to the fixing portion 2 fixed to the rim 13 and reducing the load on the fixing portion 2. This suppresses wear on the fixing portion 2 and more reliably suppresses air leakage from the tire T. The durability of the fixing portion 2 and the end portion 26f of the housing 26a (see Figure 3) can be maintained.

[0076] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the method for assembling the tire air inflation device 20 to the wheel 10 will be described. When assembling the tire air inflation device 20 to the wheel 10, the tire air inflation device 20 is inserted from the axial direction D3 toward the recess 4 such that the protruding portion 3 is located radially D1 inward from the first contact portion 5.

[0077] The end portion 26f of the housing 26a, which is inclined with respect to the radial direction D1 and the axial direction D3, is inserted into the valve insertion hole 13a of the rim 13. The tire air inflation device 20 is pushed upward toward the outside in the radial direction D1 so that the protruding portion 3 contacts the first contact portion 5.

[0078] As shown in Figure 2, the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b are fastened to the end 26f of the housing 26a to secure the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13. After these steps, the series of steps for attaching the tire air inflation device 20 to the spokes 12 of the wheel 10 is completed. The cover 8, which will be described later, may be attached after this.

[0079] As shown in Figure 3, the mounting structure 1 comprises a second contact portion 6 and an elastic body 7. The second contact portion 6 supports the tire air inflation device 20 by contacting the cylinder 21 of the tire air inflation device 20. The second contact portion 6 is formed inside the recess 4.

[0080] The mounting structure 1 has a plurality of (two in one example) second contact portions 6. The plurality of second contact portions 6 are arranged along the radial direction D1. The second contact portions 6 have notches 6b on their edges 6a. The arrangement and shape of the second contact portions 6 are the same as the arrangement and shape of the first contact portions 5.

[0081] The second contact portion 6 is formed in the wheel 10 at a different position from the first contact portion 5. The first contact portion 5 and the multiple second contact portions 6 are arranged along the radial direction D1. For example, the multiple second contact portions 6 are arranged on either side of the first contact portion 5. For example, the spacing between the first contact portion 5 and the multiple second contact portions 6 is uneven. Among the multiple second contact portions 6, the first contact portion 5 is located closer to the center portion 11 of the wheel 10.

[0082] The elastic body 7 is made of, for example, rubber. The elastic body 7 fills the gap between the tire air inflation device 20 and the second contact portion 6. The elastic body 7 functions as a cushioning material. The elastic body 7 may also absorb vibrations and the like applied to the tire air inflation device 20.

[0083] The elastic body 7 is interposed between the tire air inflation device 20 and the second contact portion 6. The second contact portion 6 is in contact with the elastic body 7. The elastic body 7 is installed between the notch 6b of the second contact portion 6 and the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21. The elastic body 7 is designed to be deformable by being sandwiched between the tire air inflation device 20 and the second contact portion 6. The repulsive force of the deformed elastic body 7 can mitigate vibrations transmitted to the tire air inflation device 20 and the second contact portion 6.

[0084] The elastic body 7 is, for example, arc-shaped. The elastic body 7 may also be shaped to conform to the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21. The width of the elastic body 7 is greater than the thickness of the plate-shaped second contact portion 6. The elastic body 7 has, for example, a recess 7b that is recessed from the outer circumferential surface of the elastic body 7. The recess 7b is recessed radially inward on the outer circumferential surface of the elastic body 7. The second contact portion 6 fits into the recess 7b. This makes it difficult for the elastic body 7 to come off the second contact portion 6. The mounting structure 1 has a plurality of elastic bodies 7 (two in one example). The plurality of elastic bodies 7 are arranged in the radial direction D1.

[0085] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the cover 8 that covers the recess 4 together with the wheel 10 and tire air inflation device 20. The mounting structure 1 includes a cover 8 that covers the recess 4. The cover 8 is attached to the spokes 12 of the wheel 10. Attaching the cover 8 to the spokes 12 improves the aesthetic appearance of the wheel 10. The cover 8 reduces air resistance and wind noise on the wheel 10 when the vehicle is in motion. The cover 8 is made of, for example, the same material as the wheel 10. The cover 8 is made of, for example, metal.

[0086] 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.

[0087] The cover 8 is attached to the spoke 12 so as to close the opening 12f of the spoke 12. The cover 8 fits into the opening 12f of the spoke 12. When the cover 8 is attached to the spoke 12, for example, the surface 8a of the cover 8 is flush with the surface 12a of the spoke 12. By attaching the cover 8 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.

[0088] The cover 8 has a main body portion 8b and a mounting portion 8c. The main body portion 8b is the part that covers the recess 4 of the cover 8. The main body portion 8b is, for example, plate-shaped. The main body portion 8b is, for example, rectangular-shaped. The shape of the main body portion 8b corresponds to the shape of the opening 12f. When the cover 8 is attached to the spoke 12, the radial length D1 of the main body portion 8b is longer than the circumferential length D2 of the main body portion 8b.

[0089] The mounting portion 8c is the part that attaches the cover 8 to the spoke 12. In one example, the mounting portion 8c is claw-shaped. The cover 8 has a pair of mounting portions 8c. The pair of mounting portions 8c are, for example, aligned in the width direction of the cover 8. The pair of mounting portions 8c are located at both ends of the cover 8 in the width direction on the main body portion 8b.

[0090] The cover 8 has a group of mounting parts consisting of a pair of mounting parts 8c. The cover 8 has multiple groups of mounting parts (two in one example). The group of mounting parts consisting of a pair of mounting parts 8c is arranged in the longitudinal direction of the cover 8 (radial direction D1 when the cover 8 is attached to the spoke 12).

[0091] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting portion 8c of the cover 8 together with the spokes 12. Figure 6 shows a cross-section along the direction in which the spokes 12 and the mounting portion 8c are aligned (circumferential direction D2) and along the axial direction D3 (cross-section perpendicular to the radial direction D1). The mounting portion 8c extends from the main body portion 8b in the thickness direction of the cover 8 (axial direction D3 when the cover 8 is attached to the spokes 12). The mounting portion 8c is located on the opposite side from the surface 8a of the cover 8. The mounting portion 8c is located on the back surface 8m of the cover 8.

[0092] The mounting portion 8c has a hook portion 8d. The hook portion 8d is the part that hooks the cover 8 onto the spoke 12. In one example, the hook portion 8d is in the shape of a projection. The hook portion 8d is located towards the tip of the mounting portion 8c rather than towards the center of the mounting portion 8c. The hook portion 8d protrudes outward in the width direction of the cover 8. Outward in the width direction of the cover 8 means the side of the spoke 12 in the circumferential direction D2 when the cover 8 is attached to the spoke 12.

[0093] The hook portion 8d is, for example, shaped with corners. The hook portion 8d has a first surface 8e and a second surface 8f. The first surface 8e extends diagonally with respect to the width direction and the thickness direction of the cover 8. The first surface 8e faces away from the main body portion 8b.

[0094] The second surface 8f extends in the width direction and the thickness direction of the cover 8. The second surface 8f faces the main body portion 8b side. The second surface 8f may be inclined with respect to the width direction and the thickness direction of the cover 8. The second surface 8f is located closer to the main body portion 8b than the first surface 8e.

[0095] The spoke 12 has a groove 12c. The groove 12c is a groove formed in the recess 4. The groove 12c is positioned corresponding to the position of the mounting portion 8c of the cover 8 (see Figure 5). The groove 12c is recessed from the first inner surface 12b of the spoke 12. The groove 12c extends in the axial direction D3. The mounting portion 8c of the cover 8 is attached to the groove 12c.

[0096] 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 first inner surface 12b of the spoke 12 and the surface 12g of the groove 12c facing the recess 4. The second surface 8f of the hook portion 8d abuts against the edge 12d.

[0097] 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 8b of the cover 8 abuts against the cover receiving portion 12e.

[0098] When attaching the cover 8 to the wheel 10, the cover 8 is moved axially D3 toward the spokes 12. The mounting portion 8c fits into the recess 4, and the first surface 8e of the mounting portion 8c also contacts the cover receiving portion 12e of the spoke 12, causing the mounting portion 8c to bend inward in the width direction of the cover 8. The mounting portion 8c, which has bent inward in the width direction of the cover 8, slides along the first inner surface 12b of the spoke 12 along the axial direction D3. The intersection of the first surface 8e and the second surface 8f of the hook portion 8d (the protruding end of the hook portion 8d) slides along the first inner surface 12b of the spoke 12.

[0099] The width W1 of the hook portion 8d is greater than the distance W2 between the first inner surface 12b of the spoke 12 and the third surface 8g of the mounting portion 8c. The third surface 8g is the surface of the mounting portion 8c that faces inward in the width direction of the cover 8. Because the width W1 is greater than the distance W2, the mounting portion 8c bends inward in the width direction of the cover 8 when it fits into the recess 4.

[0100] When the intersection of the first surface 8e and the second surface 8f of the hook portion 8d passes the first inner surface 12b of the spoke 12, the hook portion 8d reaches the groove portion 12c. The distance W3 from the surface 12g of the groove portion 12c to the third surface 8g of the mounting portion 8c is greater than the width W1. When the intersection of the first surface 8e and the second surface 8f of the hook portion 8d enters the groove portion 12c from the edge portion 12d, the bent mounting portion 8c returns to its original position (spreads outward in the width direction of the cover 8), and the second surface 8f faces the edge portion 12d.

[0101] Because the second surface 8f faces the edge portion 12d, even if you try to remove the cover 8, the second surface 8f will come into contact with the edge portion 12d, and the hook portion 8d will be caught in the groove portion 12c. The cover 8 is restricted from moving outward in the axial direction D3 relative to the spoke 12.

[0102] The edge 8h of the main body portion 8b of the cover 8 fits into the cover receiving portion 12e of the spoke 12. The cover 8 is restricted from moving in the circumferential direction D2 relative to the spoke 12. In this manner, the cover 8 is attached to the spoke 12.

[0103] The structure of the cover 8 will be described again with reference to Figures 2 and 5. The mounting structure 1 has a cover projection 9. The cover projection 9 protrudes from the back surface 8m of the cover 8. The cover projection 9 supports the tire air inflation device 20 by contacting the projection 3 of the tire air inflation device 20. The cover projection 9 may also contact the cylinder 21 of the tire air inflation device 20.

[0104] The cover projection 9 is, for example, plate-shaped. The cover projection 9 extends in the width direction and the thickness direction of the cover 8. The length of the cover projection 9 is, for example, the width of the cover 8. The width of the cover projection 9 is, for example, the length between the cover 8 attached to the wheel 10 and the tire air inflation device 20. When the cover 8 is attached to the wheel 10, the cover projection 9 abuts against the projection 3. The thickness of the cover projection 9 is long enough to support the tire air inflation device 20.

[0105] The cover projection 9 is located in the center of the back surface 8m of the cover 8. The mounting structure 1 has multiple (two in this example) cover projections 9. The multiple cover projections 9 are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the cover 8. When the cover 8 is attached to the wheel 10, the multiple cover projections 9 are arranged along the radial direction D1.

[0106] The cover projection 9 abuts against the projection 3. One of the multiple cover projections 9 abuts against the projection 3. For example, a cover projection 9 located on the inside in the radial direction D1 abuts against the projection 3. The cover projections 9 and projection 3 are aligned along the radial direction D1. The cover projection 9 abutting against the projection 3 is located on the inside in the radial direction D1 compared to the projection 3.

[0107] The cover projection 9, together with the first contact portion 5, sandwiches the projection 3 along the radial direction D1. Along the radial direction D1, the first contact portion 5, the projection 3, and the cover projection 9 are arranged in this order. As viewed from the projection 3, the first contact portion 5 and the cover projection 9 are positioned at different axial positions D3. As viewed from the projection 3, the first contact portion 5 and the cover projection 9 are positioned offset from each other in the radial direction D1. The projection 3 being sandwiched between the first contact portion 5 and the cover projection 9 allows the tire air inflation device 20 to be held more firmly on the wheel 10.

[0108] The tire air inflation mounting structure 1 may include an elastic body 7 interposed between the tire air inflation device 20 and the cover 8. The elastic body 7 may be positioned between the outer circumferential surface 21a of the cylinder 21 and the cover projection 9. The elastic body 7 is, for example, arc-shaped. The elastic body 7 may also be annular, and the shape of the elastic body 7 is not particularly limited.

[0109] 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, a protruding part 3, and a first contact part 5. The fixing part 2 fixes the tire air inflation device 20 to the rim 13 of the wheel 10. The protruding part 3 protrudes from the surface of the tire air inflation device 20. The protruding part 3 abuts against the first contact part 5 along the radial direction D1. When the automobile is running, the tire air inflation device 20 attached to the wheel 10 is subjected to a centrifugal force directed outward in the radial direction D1 of the tire T. The protruding part 3 of the tire air inflation device 20 abuts against the first contact part 5. Because the fixing part 2 is fixed to the rim 13 and the protruding part 3 abuts against the first contact part 5 along the radial direction D1, vibrations and the like in directions other than the radial direction D1 applied to the tire air inflation device 20 can be suppressed. The tire air inflation device 20 can be stably held on the wheel 10.

[0110] The protruding portion 3 comes into contact with the first contact portion 5, distributing the load applied to the fixing portion 2. This suppresses wear on the fixing portion 2 and maintains the durability of the tire air inflation device 20.

[0111] 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 first contact portion 5 is located inside the recess 4. The tire air inflation device 20 is housed in the recess 4. The first contact portion 5 is provided 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.

[0112] The first contact portion 5 is plate-shaped and extends in a direction intersecting the radial direction D1. The shape of the first contact portion 5 can be made simple. Because the first contact portion 5 is plate-shaped, the weight of the first contact portion 5 can be reduced.

[0113] The mounting structure 1 includes a second contact portion 6 formed in the wheel 10 at a different position from the first contact portion 5, and an elastic body 7 interposed between the tire air inflation device 20 and the second contact portion 6. The elastic body 7 can fill the gap between the tire air inflation device 20 and the second contact portion 6. The tire air inflation device 20 and the second contact portion 6 can be reliably brought into contact via the elastic body 7, and the tire air inflation device 20 can be reliably and stably held by the wheel 10.

[0114] 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 of the check valve 26 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.

[0115] The mounting structure 1 includes a cover 8 that covers the recess 4. The tire air inflation device 20 can be covered by the cover 8. By covering the tire air inflation device 20 with the cover 8, 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 housed in the recess 4 inside the cover 8 can be protected from the collision. Damage to the tire air inflation device 20 can be more reliably prevented.

[0116] The mounting structure 1 protrudes from the back surface 8m of the cover 8 and has a cover projection 9 that, together with the first contact portion 5, sandwiches the protruding portion 3 along the radial direction D1. The protruding portion 3 of the tire air inflation device 20 can be sandwiched by the first contact portion 5 and the cover projection 9. The protruding portion 3 can be supported from both sides of the tire T in the radial direction D1 by the first contact portion 5 and the cover projection 9, and the tire air inflation device 20 can be securely and stably held by the wheel 10.

[0117] 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.

[0118] For example, in the embodiment described above, an example was described in which the tire air inflation device 20 is housed in the recess 4. However, the tire air inflation device 20 does not have to be housed in the recess 4. The tire air inflation device 20 may be located in the space formed between the multiple spokes 12 of the wheel 10. The first contact portion is provided in this space.

[0119] In the embodiment described above, an example was described in which the spoke 12 has a second contact portion 6. However, the spoke does not have to have a second contact portion 6. The tire air inflation device 20 is held on the wheel by the first contact portion 5 provided on the spoke and the protrusion 3 provided on the cylinder 21.

[0120] 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.

[0121] In the embodiment described above, the housing 26a is made of metal, and the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b are made of metal. However, since the protrusion 3 of the tire air inflation device 20 can be sandwiched between the first contact portion 5 and the cover protrusion 9, the housing 26a does not have to be made of metal, and the first nut 2a and the second nut 2b do not have to be made of metal. The end portion 26f of the housing 26a may be, for example, a snap-in valve or a clamp-in valve.

[0122] 1... Mounting structure for tire air inflation device, 2... Fixing part, 2a... First nut, 2b... Second nut, 2c... Washer, 2d... O-ring, 3... Protrusion, 3a... First contact surface, 4... Recess, 5... First contact part, 5a... Edge, 5b... Notch, 5c... Second contact surface, 6... Second contact part, 6a... Edge, 6b... Notch, 7... Elastic body, 7b... Recess, 8... Cover, 8a... Surface, 8b... Main body, 8c... Mounting part, 8d... Hook, 8e... First surface, 8f... Second surface, 8g... Third surface, 8h... Edge, 8m... Back surface, 9... Cover protrusion, 10... Wheel, 11... Center part, 11a... Through hole, 12... Spoke, 12a... Surface , 12b...First inner surface, 12c...Groove, 12d...Edge, 12e...Cover receiving part, 12f...Opening, 12g...Surface, 12h...Second inner surface, 13...Rim, 13a...Valve insertion hole, 20...Tire air filling device, 21...Cylinder, 21a...Outer surface, 21c...Opening, 21e...End, 21f...End, 22...Weight, 23...Vent filter, 24...Weight spring, 25...Backflow prevention valve, 26...Check valve, 26a...Housing, 26b...Air hole, 26c...Valve body, 26f...End, 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 filling device, which is provided on a wheel attached to a tire and compresses air to fill the inside of the tire, comprising: a fixing portion for fixing the tire air filling device to the rim of the wheel; a protruding portion that protrudes from the surface of the tire air filling device; and a first contact portion formed on the wheel, which the protruding portion abuts against along 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, and the first contact portion is located inside the recess.

3. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first contact portion is plate-shaped and extends in a direction intersecting the radial direction.

4. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, comprising: a second contact portion formed in the wheel at a position different from the first contact portion; and an elastic body interposed between the tire air inflation device and the second contact portion.

5. 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.

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

7. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 6, comprising a cover projection that protrudes from the back surface of the cover and, together with the first contact portion, sandwiches the projection along the radial direction.

8. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first contact portion has a notch cut out from the edge of the first contact portion toward the center in the direction along the central axis of the wheel.

9. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, 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 check valve extends inclined from the end of the cylinder.

10. The mounting structure for a tire air inflation device according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the cover has a mounting portion for attaching the cover to the spoke.

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