Segmented Polyurethane Non-Pneumatic Tire Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-pneumatic tires face challenges in reducing rolling resistance and increasing longevity, as existing support structures do not effectively utilize polyurethane materials to enhance these properties.
Innovation Solution
The use of a polyurethane support structure formed from a prepolymer reaction product of an aromatic diisocyanate monomer and an active hydrogen component, with a controlled NCO to isocyanate-reacting functional groups ratio and low residual diisocyanate monomer content, combined with a curative, to create segmented polyurethane with improved elastomeric properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional polyurethane materials are used in non-pneumatic tire support structures, then the tire can be manufactured with basic structural support, but the rolling resistance remains high and longevity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the NCO to isocyanate-reacting functional groups ratio (at least 1.8:1) and limiting residual aromatic diisocyanate monomer content (no more than 10 wt%). These parameter adjustments optimize the polyurethane's mechanical properties, resulting in reduced rolling resistance and improved longevity of the non-pneumatic tire support structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite materials by creating segmented polyurethane through the reaction of aromatic diisocyanate monomer with polyol and/or polyamine components. This segmented structure combines soft and hard segments that provide both flexibility and durability, simultaneously reducing rolling resistance and enhancing tire longevity
2Strength
If the NCO to isocyanate-reacting functional groups ratio is increased to improve polyurethane properties, then the mechanical strength and elastomeric properties improve, but the residual monomer content may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by establishing specific parameter ranges: NCO to isocyanate-reacting functional groups ratio of at least 1.8:1 and residual aromatic diisocyanate monomer content of no more than 10 wt%. These controlled parameters ensure optimal mechanical properties while maintaining acceptable residual monomer levels
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
This approach results in non-pneumatic tires with reduced rolling resistance and extended longevity, as the controlled polyurethane composition provides enhanced soft and hard segment distribution, leading to improved mechanical properties.
Implementation Method 1
a prepolymer comprising a reaction product of an aromatic diisocyanate monomer and an active hydrogen component selected from a polyol, a polyamine or combinations thereof
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2E
AI summary
Non-pneumatic tires are disclosed having a support structure that includes an outer reinforced annular band, a hub and a set of supports extending between the hub and radially inward from the outer reinforced annular band. The support structure is formed at least in part of a polyurethane produced from a prepolymer comprising a reaction product of an aromatic diisocyanate monomer and an active hydrogen component selected from a polyol, a polyamine or combinations thereof, the aromatic diisocyanate monomer and the active hydrogen component mixed at a ratio of NCO to isocyanate-reacting function group of at least 1.8: 1, wherein the active hydrogen component has a number average molecular weight of between 1000 and 6000 and wherein the prepolymer contains no more than 10 wt% of residual aromatic diisocyanate monomer. The reaction components also include a curative.