Sidewall Gum Layer Layout for Cooler, Lighter Tire Durability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tires face challenges in maintaining durability while minimizing weight and reducing heat generation in the sidewall, which can lead to increased rolling resistance and reduced fuel economy.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of thin gum layers made of extra rubber, strategically placed in the tire construction to dissipate thermal energy, with specific configurations that minimize weight and maintain durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the thickness of rubber of the tire side portion is increased to restrict deformations and reduce heat generation, then heat accumulation at the sidewall is reduced, but the overall weight of the tire increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing thin gum layers (0.2-2.0 mm thickness) only in specific high-heat zones: the sidewall gum layer extends from the apex along the carcass plies, the belt gum layer extends from between the belt package and carcass plies, and the wraparound gum layer wraps around the belt end. This localized approach reduces heat accumulation at critical areas without increasing overall tire weight significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the heat management function into three separate gum layers positioned at different locations: sidewall gum layer for sidewall heat, belt gum layer for belt package heat, and wraparound gum layer for belt end heat. Each layer is optimized for its specific location, allowing targeted thermal management without uniform weight increase.
2Reliability
If additional rubber features (rubber wedge or extended sidewall) are added to improve tire durability, then durability is improved, but tire weight increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances durability through localized reinforcement with thin gum layers at critical stress points: the sidewall gum layer reinforces the sidewall region, the belt gum layer reinforces the belt package area, and the wraparound gum layer protects the belt end. This provides durability improvement without the significant weight increase associated with traditional rubber wedges or extended sidewalls.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the durability enhancement into three separate gum layer components positioned at different critical locations. Each layer addresses specific durability concerns at its location, providing comprehensive protection without requiring a single large-weight addition.
3Reliability
If tire weight is increased to improve durability, then durability is improved, but rolling resistance increases which reduces fuel economy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves durability improvement with minimal weight increase by using thin gum layers (0.2-2.0 mm) only where needed for reinforcement. This localized approach maintains fuel economy by avoiding unnecessary weight addition while still providing durability benefits at critical areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the durability enhancement into three small, targeted gum layers rather than adding uniform weight throughout the tire. This minimizes the overall weight increase and associated rolling resistance, preserving fuel economy while improving durability at specific critical locations.
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 gum layers effectively absorb and dissipate heat, improving tire durability without significantly increasing weight, thus enhancing performance and fuel efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
During operation, the rubber of the tire sidewall deforms, which creates heat and accelerates wear of the sidewall
Data Source
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AI summary
A tire (10) is disclosed comprising a bead portion (20a, 20b) comprising a bead core (36a, 36b) embedded therein; a carcass (22) anchored around the bead core (36a, 36b), the carcass (22) comprising a carcass ply portion (30) and a turnup portion (30a, 30b); an apex (38a, 38b) between the carcass ply portion (30) and the turnup portion (30a, 30b); a belt structure (14) arranged between the carcass (22) and a tread (12); a sidewall gum layer (52a, 52b) that extends from a first end point (52a", 52b") located at the apex (38a, 38b) or radially between the radially innermost point of the apex (38a, 38b) and the radially outermost point of the apex (38a, 38b) radially upwards to a second end point (52a', 52b') and along the carcass ply portion (30); and a belt gum layer that extends from a first end point located between the belt structure (14) and the carcass ply portion (30) along the carcass ply portion (30) axially outwards to a second end point. A distance or spacing between the second end point of the belt gum layer and the second end point (52a', 52b') of the sidewall gum layer (52a, 52b) is 15 mm or greater.