Nonpneumatic Tire Spoke Loops for Load Support Off-Road
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tires lack the ability to maintain functionality and stability in uninflated or underinflated conditions, particularly in off-road applications where repair or replacement is difficult, and existing non-pneumatic tires may not provide optimal structural support and durability.
Innovation Solution
A non-pneumatic tire design featuring a serpentine spoke ply that extends between an inner and outer hoop, with a central axis and equatorial plane, and a method of construction using a forming jig to shape and cure flexible material into an annular shape, forming loops that provide radial support and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pneumatic tire construction is used, then the tire can provide good ride comfort and noise reduction, but it cannot maintain functionality when punctured or underinflated
Solution Approach 1:
The tire structure is segmented into discrete functional components: an outer hoop, an inner hoop, and multiple radial spokes connecting them. This segmentation allows the tire to maintain structural integrity without relying on internal air pressure, enabling operation in punctured or underinflated conditions while providing adaptability for off-road applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If non-pneumatic tire design is used, then the tire can operate without inflation, but it may lack optimal structural support and durability
Solution Approach 1:
The tire employs composite construction combining the outer hoop, inner hoop, and radial spokes into an integrated structure. This composite design provides optimal structural support and durability while maintaining the ability to operate without inflation, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and strength.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple spoke structure is used, then the tire is easier to manufacture, but it cannot effectively distribute load and maintain stability
Solution Approach 1:
The tire structure is pre-configured with specifically designed radial spokes that connect the outer and inner hoops at predetermined positions and angles. This preliminary structural arrangement ensures effective load distribution and structural stability are built into the design, allowing the tire to maintain stability while remaining manufacturable through established processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A nonpneumatic tire assembly includes an outer hoop, a plurality of loops extending inward from the outer hoop, and a hub having a plurality of members. Each of the plurality of members is connected to one of the plurality of loops.