Pneumatic Tire Side Portion Ridge Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
The external appearance of pneumatic tire side portions is not adequately improved due to visible convexity and concavity, which existing side decorative bands fail to fully conceal, especially when tire thickness is reduced for weight minimization.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatic tire design featuring alternating first and second direction concave portion patterns with distinct light reflection patterns and orientations, including main and sub-ridges with varying heights and intervals, to create a three-dimensional effect and conceal convexity and concavity, while potentially reducing crack propagation along the tire peripheral direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the thickness of the tire sides is made thin to decrease weight, then weight is reduced, but convexity and concavity appear at the surfaces of the tire sides
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating decorative bands with specific ridge patterns (main ridges and sub-ridges) at the tire side portions. These localized structural features conceal the convexity and concavity caused by thinning, while maintaining the overall reduced weight benefit. The ridge patterns are specifically positioned and dimensioned to mask surface irregularities without requiring increased tire thickness.
2Shape
If a simple side decorative band is used to conceal convexity and concavity, then surface appearance is improved, but the external appearance can be further improved
Solution Approach 1:
The decorative band is segmented into multiple functional components: main ridges extending in a first direction, sub-ridges extending in a second direction, and alternating light reflection patterns. This segmentation allows each element to contribute specifically to concealing surface irregularities while creating a complex overall appearance that enhances aesthetic appeal beyond simple decorative bands.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dimensional complexity by arranging ridges in multiple directions (first direction and second direction alternating patterns) and creating varying light reflection patterns. This multi-directional ridge arrangement adds visual depth and complexity that improves external appearance without requiring additional tire thickness or weight.
3Shape
If alternating first and second direction concave portion patterns are created with different light reflection patterns, then external appearance is enhanced and convexity-concavity is concealed, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The decorative band employs periodic alternating patterns where first direction concave portion patterns and second direction concave portion patterns are arranged alternately. This periodic structure allows the complex multi-directional ridge patterns to be manufactured using standardized mold segments that can be repeated around the tire circumference, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the intricate surface geometry.
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 design effectively conceals convexity and concavity, enhances the external appearance of the tire side portion, and reduces the likelihood of crack propagation by reflecting light in multiple directions and creating a three-dimensional effect.
Implementation Method 1
a light reflection pattern of the sub-ridge region being different than that of the main ridge region... incident light can be reflected in multiple directions
Data Source
AI summary
First direction ridge patterns and second direction ridge patterns are lined-up alternately at a tire side portion. Plural main ridges 22A through 22D and sub-ridges 26A through 26D, which project-out from a bottom surface 18A, are formed at a first direction ridge pattern 20. The respective ridges are disposed in parallel such that ridge extending directions are a same direction. Light reflection patterns are different at a main ridge region 24 and a sub-ridge region 28.