Segmented Runflat Device for Universal Wheel Compatibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current runflat devices for vehicle wheels face challenges such as compromised traction and braking when deflated, require specialized tools for fitting, and have limited adaptability to different wheel sizes and designs, leading to instability and prolonged fitting times.

Innovation Solution

A runflat device comprising a body of interconnected segments with a cantilever-like cross-section, a valve assembly, and a retraction mechanism, allowing for easy fitting and adjustment to various wheel diameters using standard tools, and providing a true beadlock mechanism with adaptable pressure to maintain tire stability and traction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a runflat device with a small footprint area is used to fit within the wheel well, then the device can be installed without modifying the wheel structure, but the stability of the runflat device is compromised when the vehicle is running with a deflated tyre

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of installationVSAvoidstability of runflat device

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The runflat device is divided into multiple segments that can be assembled together to form a complete circular structure. This segmentation allows the device to be installed in sections within the wheel well while maintaining structural integrity and stability when deployed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The runflat device transitions from a flat, two-dimensional configuration during installation to a three-dimensional circular structure when deployed. This dimensional change allows the device to maximize its footprint area and stability while still fitting within the constraints of the wheel well during installation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If an annular base with a second outer ring is used to support the runflat device, then the device can rotate to accommodate tyre movement, but the small footprint area reduces the capability of spreading rotational forces and vehicle weight over a larger area

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverotational capabilityVSAvoidforce distribution

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Stress or pressure

If high pressure is applied over a small contact area to support the tyre tread, then the runflat device can maintain tyre position, but friction increases producing heat that reduces the device's longevity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepressure on tyre treadVSAvoidlongevity of runflat device

Core Design Contradiction:

Stress or pressureVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

4Stability of the object's composition

If current runflat devices are designed with fixed dimensions, then they can provide stable support when deployed, but they require specialized tools and equipment for fitting and take a long time to install

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability when deployedVSAvoidfitting time

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The runflat device incorporates adjustable dimensions that allow it to be configured for different wheel sizes and applications. This dynamic adjustability enables standard tyre fitting tools and procedures to be used while maintaining stable support when deployed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2653321B1A run flat device

Publication Date: 2018.06.27 RUN FLAT SYST

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a runflat device (2), particularly, but not exclusively, a combined runflat and double sided beadlock that can be fitted to any size and type of wheel (1) regardless of the shape and depth of the wheel well (10). The runflat device (2) can be fitted using standard tools and tightened through manipulation of a valve assembly (52).