Angled Planar Run-Flat Device Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing run-flat devices for vehicle wheels do not effectively manage the forces generated by a punctured tire, leading to potential shredding or dislodgment, and there is a need for an improved design that securely holds the tire in place without excessive slippage.
Innovation Solution
A resilient annular body with angled planar inner surfaces and a triangular recess is integrated into the tire, transferring inward forces axially outward to maintain the tire between the wheel rim and the run-flat device, and optionally includes a split ring or arcuate segments with clamping means for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the run-flat device uses a conventional flat inner surface, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but the inward force during deflation is not effectively managed leading to potential tire shredding or dislodgment
Solution Approach 1:
The inner surface of the annular body is segmented into multiple planar surfaces (first, second, third, and fourth planar surfaces) that are angled relative to each other. These segmented surfaces work together to redirect inward forces into axial outward forces, preventing tire failure while maintaining a manufacturable structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The planar surfaces are oriented at angles to one another, creating a three-dimensional force redistribution system. This angular configuration transforms radial inward forces into axial outward forces, adding a dimensional aspect to force management that enhances tire retention without excessive complexity.
2Reliability
If the run-flat device securely holds the tire during deflation, then tire retention is improved, but relative movement or slippage between the tire and device may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The annular body includes a curved outer surface that contacts the tire, providing friction and grip. This curvature complements the angled planar inner surfaces, creating a combination of geometric constraints and frictional contact that prevents slippage while allowing controlled movement during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The angled planar surfaces are pre-configured to redirect forces before the tire can slip or become dislodged. By anticipating the inward force direction during deflation, the geometry is designed in advance to convert these forces into stabilizing axial outward forces, preventing slippage before it occurs.
3Reliability
If the annular body includes a deep recess, then force redirection is improved, but manufacturing complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The recess in the annular body extends only partially through the thickness of the structure, not completely. This partial penetration is sufficient to provide the necessary force redirection geometry while avoiding the excessive material removal and manufacturing complexity that would result from a complete-through recess.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess is strategically positioned and sized to provide force redirection only where needed - at the interface between the angled planar surfaces. This localized feature achieves effective force management without requiring complex geometry throughout the entire annular body, simplifying manufacturing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design ensures the tire remains securely attached to the wheel rim during deflation, preventing relative movement and facilitating easy production, while maintaining structural integrity and ease of assembly.
Implementation Method 1
force directed inwardly towards the inner face of the annular body is displaced/transferred axially outwardly into the first and second tyre abutting members
Implementation Method 2
a resilient substantially annular body having a central axis
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A run flat device for fitting to the outer circumference of a wheel inside an inflatable tyre, is disclosed said device comprising a resilient substantially annular body (4) having a central axis, in which the annular body extends outwardly at an inner surface to form first and second tyre abutting members (14,16), an internal face (10) of the annular body (4) being provided with a recess (22) extending between the first and second tyre abutting members (14,16), the recess being substantially defined by planar inner surfaces (24,26) of the respective tyre abutting members (14,16), and the planar inner surfaces (24,26) being disposed at an angle to one another.