Non-Pneumatic Tire Spoke Heel Structure for Lower Rolling Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-pneumatic tire constructions face challenges in achieving improved wear resistance, handling, noise reduction, and durability, which are also sought in pneumatic tires.
Innovation Solution
The development of spokes for non-pneumatic tires, which are formed using a specific rubber composition and include elastomeric joint bodies with a heel portion, providing enhanced durability and reduced rolling resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional rubber compositions are used in spokes, then manufacturing is simpler, but wear resistance and durability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining rubber with specific proportions of reinforcing fillers (carbon black, silica) and other additives to create a multi-component rubber composition that enhances wear resistance and durability while maintaining manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the proportions of various components in the rubber composition (e.g., 20-40 phr carbon black, 10-30 phr silica) to achieve improved durability and wear resistance without excessive complexity
2Loss of energy
If traditional spoke designs are used, then construction is simpler, but rolling resistance is higher
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing a heel portion at the proximal end of the spoke that is formed of a different rubber composition than the main body, creating localized zones with different properties to reduce rolling resistance while maintaining overall structural simplicity
3Duration of action of moving object
If basic rubber compositions are used, then manufacturing cost is lower, but wear resistance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the proportions of rubber components, fillers, and additives within specific ranges to achieve optimal wear resistance while keeping the manufacturing process manageable and costs controlled
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 proposed solution improves the durability and reduces rolling resistance of non-pneumatic tires, leading to better fuel economy and overall performance.
Implementation Method 1
The rubber compositions may be based on a cross-linkable rubber compositions
Data Source
AI summary
A non-pneumatic wheel (10) having a hub (12), an outer tread band (200) and a plurality of spokes (100) connecting the hub with the outer tread band, each of the plurality of spokes having first and second spoke elements (140) joined by a body (130, 136) comprised of an elastomer connecting the first spoke element to the second spoke element, wherein at least one of a second (112) and a third (114) joint body has a heel portion (190, 191) made of a rubber composition having a higher rigidity.