Convex Tire Insert Geometry for Run-Flat Support Without Tire Rubbing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire inserts for off-road vehicles are not reliable over time due to early wear caused by heat and internal rubbing, and they compromise tire dynamics and performance, making them unsuitable for normal road vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A tire insert with an annular polymeric material design that includes a base portion for contact with the rim and an enlarged convex portion that only contacts the tire when deflated or under pressure drop, minimizing interference with tire performance and preventing wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the insert completely fills the tire to replace air and simulate pressures, then tire support is ensured in the event of puncture, but the insert causes early wear due to heat and internal rubbing, and compromises tire dynamics during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is designed to only partially fill the tire cavity rather than completely filling it. The enlarged portion with convex outer surface is strategically shaped to provide support only when needed (during puncture or pressure loss), while leaving sufficient space for air to maintain proper tire dynamics during normal operation. This partial action approach eliminates excessive contact that causes wear while preserving the safety function.
2Reliability
If the insert is in contact with the inner wall of the tire to provide support, then tire support is improved, but tire performance becomes dependent on inflation pressure and working position, losing homogeneity
Solution Approach 1:
The insert employs local quality by having different portions with different functions: the base portion contacts the rim for structural support, while the enlarged portion with convex outer surface makes localized contact with the tire only in specific conditions (deflated or pressure drop states). This localized contact approach ensures homogeneous performance across various working positions and inflation pressures, as the insert geometry is designed to maintain consistent support characteristics regardless of wheel orientation.
3Ease of manufacture
If the insert uses a solid circular cross-section toroidal shape, then manufacturing is simplified, but the insert creates internal rubbing between the insert, rim, and tire, causing heat and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The insert transitions from a solid circular cross-section to an enlarged portion with a convex outer surface that is curved. This spherical/curved geometry reduces contact area and friction points with the tire and rim, minimizing internal rubbing and heat generation. The curved surface allows smoother movement and reduced mechanical interference while maintaining the toroidal overall shape for manufacturing feasibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A tire insert for vehicle wheel which has an annular element made in one piece of polymer material is provided. The annular element has a base portion suitable for being accommodated in a rim seat of a rim and an enlarged portion having a section larger than the base portion. The enlarged portion is shaped to have shape and size to always be spaced apart from an inner tire side when the tire is inflated to a predetermined standard working pressure. When the tire is deflated, the enlarged portion comes into contact with the tire to support the tire while the vehicle wheel is running. A vehicle wheel having a tire, a rim onto which the tire is mounted, and the tire insert is also provided.