Sidewall Hoop Ring Structure for Zero-Pressure Run-Flat Tires
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing run flat tires are limited to short distances and low speeds when operating in a zero pressure state, and there is a need for tires capable of high-speed, long-distance operation without inflation, along with a suitable manufacturing method.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatic tire with sidewall hoop rings molded or bonded inside the sidewalls, using materials like polybutene peroxide and paraquinone derivatives, and a non-rubber molded ring for reinforcement, combined with a manufacturing process that includes additional steps to secure the rings during tire assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sidewalls are strengthened by additional thickness of side wall material, then the tire can run in zero pressure condition for short distances, but the tire cannot operate at high speeds and long distances in zero pressure state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials including polybutene peroxide, paraquinone derivatives, and non-rubber molded rings integrated into the sidewall structure. This composite approach creates a multi-material system that provides both the structural support needed for zero pressure operation and the mechanical properties required for high-speed performance, resolving the contradiction between reliability in flat condition and operating speed capability
Solution Approach 2:
The sidewall is segmented into distinct functional zones with hoop rings positioned at specific locations (middle portion of sidewalls). This segmentation allows different regions of the sidewall to perform specialized functions - the hoop rings provide structural support for zero pressure operation while other regions maintain flexibility for high-speed operation, thus resolving the speed-reliability contradiction
2Reliability
If sidewalls are strengthened by additional thickness of side wall material, then the tire can run in zero pressure condition, but the operation distance is limited to short distances
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated composite structure of polybutene peroxide, paraquinone derivatives, and non-rubber molded rings provides enhanced structural integrity that distributes stresses more effectively throughout the sidewall. This allows the tire to maintain its shape and support loads over extended distances in zero pressure condition, transforming it from a short-distance run-flat solution to a long-distance pressure-zero capability
Solution Approach 2:
The hoop rings are pre-positioned and integrated into the sidewall structure during manufacturing, creating predetermined structural support zones that are optimized for long-distance zero pressure operation. This preliminary structuring ensures the tire maintains stability and load-bearing capacity throughout extended flat operation, enabling distances beyond typical run-flat capabilities
3Strength
If hoop rings are molded or bonded inside sidewalls, then structural integrity is improved, but manufacturing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the hoop ring reinforcement with the sidewall manufacturing process itself, integrating what could be separate operations into a unified production flow. The non-rubber molded rings are incorporated during the tire building process, combining the sidewall formation and reinforcement installation into a single integrated operation, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the enhanced structural integrity achieved
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a pneumatic tire with a toroidal shaped tire carcass having sidewalls and a tread. A typical method of allowing a tire to run even in a punctured state is a method of reinforcing the sidewall area to support the load in the airless state. The present invention discloses both sidewalls having a hoop ring circumferentially molded in-place at the middle portion of both sidewalls or as floating multiple hoop rings bonded in-place at the middle portion in the tire inside sidewalls for supporting the vehicle load in a run-flat condition.