Demountable tire rim with a spare inner wheel and tire for said tire rim

Abstract

The present invention is related to a demountable tire rim (1) with a spare inner wheel (3) with antifriction systems which allow running with tubeless tires, without their deterioration; the demountable tire rim (1) comprises two complementary annular parts (4)(5) provided with reciprocal threaded coupling means (10). The body of the demountable tire (1) comprises two complementary annular parts (4)(5) which consist of a first part (4) and a second part (5). Both complementary annular parts (4)(5) are provided with each side holding rims (6) (13) for the tire (2). The modifications of the tires (2) have the purpose of adapting them to run under flat condition and determine a guided movement on it, and in relation to the tire rim, it decreases the rotating displacement on it.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a tire rim which allows a vehicle to run with a flat tire. More particularly, it relates to a demountable tire rim with a spare inner wheel and tire for said tire rim which two main parts can be easily disassembled to place or remove the spare inner wheel that is placed into the wheel.

2. Description of Prior Art

Within the prior art, there is U.S. Pat. No. 2,105,317 which discloses an aircraft wheel made of two pieces. However, this tire rim is not apt to be used in automobiles and in addition, it is not prepared to carry a spare inner wheel inside.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,037,815 shows a wheel in which the tire rim has a thread to vary the tread. This wheel is intended to be used in tractors and lacks the spare inner wheel.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,989,657 is a modular wheel consisting of two main pieces and a third piece to ensure the tire grip. These pieces are joined by means of bolts but they lack other coupling means. It is not prepared for the assembly of a spare inner wheel, either.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,022,450 discloses a set of safety tire rim and demountable wheel. Both parts of the tire rim are joined by means of bolts and lack other coupling means. There is an insert to run with the flat tire which is simply added but does not determine the tire rim structure.

None of these well-known tire rims is prepared to have a spare wheel and at the same time, be demountable with threaded or bayonet type coupling means.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present demountable tire rim with spare inner wheel comprises two complementary annular parts provided with threaded reciprocal coupling means. Both complementary annular parts form side holding edges for the tire beads and in the central part, they form the assembly for one or more spare wheels.

OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES

An advantage of the present tire rim is that it allows to place and easily remove the spare inner wheel.

Another advantage is that it simplifies the placement and removal of tubeless tires which are easily performed and there is no need of using levers as it usually occurs with one-piece tire rims. This is very significant in low profile tires in which due to the height of their lateral walls, these ones are less flexible making manipulation in conventional tire rims difficult.

A further advantage of the present tire rim is that it is provided with assembly means like an annular depression wherein the spare inner wheel wedges and slides which allows to run with tubeless tires without them being deteriorated. All the well-known similar systems, although having their contact surfaces lubricated, do not have an annular depression for the spare wheel to be slided relative to the tire rim. Therefore, contact between the spare inner wheel and the tire causes its deterioration because the difference in diameters causes a destructive attrition between both of them.

In addition, the present tire rim is compatible with different antifriction means such as rollers at the base of the inner wheel or burnishings or anti-friction coatings in the assembly means of said inner wheel. All this, on the one hand, facilitates the relative sliding between the inner wheel and the tire rim, and on the other hand, contact between the inner wheel and the tire, thus avoiding deterioration of the tire.

The present tire rim is compatible with the use of inner wheels made of different materials, namely plastic, thermoplastic, elastomer, flexible, semi-flexible, semirigid or rigid. The use of these materials and the chance of incorporating easer holes allow the inner wheel to be resistant and at the same time, light and safe.

This tire rim is also compatible with the use of spare inner wheels, either one-piece or not, for instance, consisting of three or more sectors connected to one another through flexible and strong bonding elements, which allow them to behave like one-piece wheels and allow them to be warped, lessening their major diameter so as to be placed and removed from the inside of the tire which inner mouth has a shorter diameter.

Yet a further advantage of the present tire rim is high safety. This is due to the fact that it is provided to complement threaded or bayonet type reciprocal coupling means with a plurality of connection passages wherein bolts with nut, lockpins, annular groove with cross section washer, etc. are arranged.

A yet further advantage is that the present tire rim allows to form an aerodynamic and aesthetic wheel and its confomation allows it to adapt to measurements standarized by international regulations which govern the art. And the modified tire is intended to decrease friction with the inner wheel, determine a guided movement on it and decrease rotating displacement with reference to the tire rim upon running under flat condition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As it can be observed in FIGS. 1 and 2, the present invention is related to a demountable tire rim (1) with spare inner wheel (3) which is integrated by two complementary annular parts (4)(5) provided with threaded reciprocal coupling means (10).

The body of the demountable tire rim (1) comprises two complementary annular parts (4)(5) which consist of a first part (4) and a second part (5). Both complementary annular parts (4) (5) are provided with each side holding rims (6) (13) for the tire (2).

According to FIG. 7A, between the holding rim (6) or (13) and an adjacent rim (7a) a wedge is formed (7) for the tire (2) bead (51). The possibility that the adjacent rim (7a) has gearing means (43) with similar means (53) provided by the tire (2) bead (51) has been provided; this allows an integral assembly between the tire rim (1) and the tire (2) (See FIG. 7b).

In the central part of the tire rim (1) there are assembly means for one or more spare wheels (3). These assembly means comprise a central depression (9). That may be even or grooved (17) limited by side edges (8) (12) and central rims (15) which are supported against said side edges (8) (12). When there are two or more spare wheels (3), separating rims (16) can be added (16). (See FIGS. 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6).

The two complementary annular parts (4) (5) have reciprocal coupling means based on threads (10). (See FIGS. 1 and 2). In one case, the reciprocal coupling means consist of each continuous threads (10) formed at the above mentioned complementary annular parts (4) (5). In another case, the reciprocal coupling means consist of a plurality of threaded sectors (40) on the edge of the whole perimeter of both adjacent segments of the tire rim (1) which have, on one of their ends, an elevated part as a stop (41), inserted with sectors without thread (42), which surface is at a lower level in relation to the threaded sectors (40), these ones being different sectors, of the same width, so that they can be inserted to one another, to be fixed by means of threading spindrift movements. (See FIGS. 25A, 25B and 25C).

The reciprocal coupling means are complemented by means of interconnection and fixation means (19) of the complementary annular parts (4)(5). These interconnection and fixation means (19) comprise a plurality of equal and equally-spacedly openings distributed on flanges placed on the perimeter of both edges, which, one opposite the other form passages for fixation screws or for bolts with lockpin washer (See detail in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2).

In FIGS. 1, 4, 5 and 6, it can be seen that both complementary annular parts (4)(5) define a joint area (11) that may be even or with annular ledges. The annular ledges can be facing or insertable. In this joint area, there is an elastomeric joint (14) that may also be even or with annular ledges.

Concerning the spare wheel (3), it can be grooved (23)(24)(25) or even (22) in one-piece, one-piece with recesses (29) on the even periphery (22), one-piece with recesses (30) on the inner edge (23) or either comprised by sectors related to an annular member which goes through them.

Different examples of spare wheels (3) are illustrated in FIGS. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24.

With regard to the tire, in addition to the gearing means (53), it possesses a reinforcement annular member (52) arranged within the bead (51) (See FIGS. 3 and 7B).

In FIGS. 1 and 2, some inner ledges (50) of the above mentioned tire (2) can be seen to face and facilitate contact with the spare wheel (3) under flat tire running conditions.

It is evident that when the present invention is put into practice, modifications may be made regarding certain construction and shape details, without departing from the basic principles which are clearly encompassed in the following claims.

Claims

1) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM, which is intended to serve as assembly to a tire with which it comprises a wheel for vehicles and to one or more spare inner wheels which act with said flat tire, comprising: a) The body of the tire rim comprised by at least two complementary annular parts of which both side parts provide each side holding rims of the tire; b) Said complementary annular parts are provided with reciprocal coupling means; c) Between the complementary annular parts they conform assembly means for, at least, a spare inner wheel; d) The tire to be used with this tire rim and inner wheel shows modifications to adapt it to running under flat condition.

2) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM, according to claim 1, wherein the complementary annular parts conform assembly means for, at least, a spare inner wheel which diameter is larger than said tire rim diameter.

3) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM, according to claim 1 wherein reciprocal coupling means consist of each continuous threads formed on the coupling edges of the complementary annular parts.

4) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the reciprocal coupling means consist of a plurality of each threaded sectors on the edge of the whole perimeter of both segments adjacent to the tire rim which have, on one of their ends, an elevated part acting as stop, inserted with non threaded sectors which surface is at a lower level relative to the threaded sectors, being these different sectors, of the same width, so that they may be inserted to one another to be fixed by means of threading spindrift movements.

5) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the reciprocal coupling means are complemented by interconnection and fixation means.

6) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 5 wherein the interconnection and fixation means between the complementary annular parts consist of a plurality of sets of equal and equally-spaced openings distributed on flanges placed at the perimeter of both edges, which faced to each other form passages for fixation screws.

7) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 5 wherein the interconnection and fixation means between the complementary annular parts consist of a plurality of sets of equal and equally-spaced openings distributed on flanges placed at the perimeter of both edges, which faced to each other form passages for lockpin bolts.

8) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the assembly means for the spare inner wheel consist of an annular depression which side edges are provided by both complementary annular parts.

9) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 8 wherein the annular depression consists of a sliding and slipping track for the spare inner wheel.

10) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 8 wherein the annular depression presents annular grooves which decrease contact and friction surface with the spare inner wheel.

11) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the assembly means for the spare inner wheel consist of an annular depression and each side holding elastic rims of said spare inner wheel; said side holding rims are arranged against the side edges provided by both complementary annular parts, overrunning their height.

12) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises assembly means for more than one spare inner wheel, which means consist of an annular depression, divided in, at least, two sectors, by means of, at least, an intermediate elastic rim.

13) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the complementary annular parts are provided with reciprocal coupling means which end at respective contact and tightness even surfaces.

14) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 13 which comprises contact and tightness surfaces provided with a plurality of concentric annular ledges which have a reciprocal insertion arrangement to one another.

15) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 14 which comprises, between the opposite surfaces, a laterally flat annular elastomeric joint which side surfaces are even.

16) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 13 which comprises, between the opposite surfaces, a laterally flat annular elastomeric joint with a plurality of concentric annular edges on both side surfaces.

17) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the assembly means for a spare inner wheel comprise an annular depression and side retention means of said inner wheel.

18) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 17 wherein the spare inner wheel forms cooperation means with the retention means.

19) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises bearing means which as bearing rollers are inserted between the inner wheel and the bottom of the annular depression.

20) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises a one-piece inner wheel made of a single material.

21) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises an inner wheel consisting of a plurality of segments mutually related by strong and flexible joining means.

22) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises a spare inner wheel made of elastomeric material.

23) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises an inner wheel made of plastic material.

24) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises an inner wheel made of a light metal.

25) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises an inner wheel made of synthetic fibers and a material which compacts them.

26) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the inner wheel has a structural reinforcement inner core.

27) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises an inner wheel provided with a metal coating on its major surface diameter provided with an outer layer consisting of polytetrafluoroethylene polymer (PTFE).

28) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 which comprises an inner wheel provided with flexibilizing means consisting of a plurality of narrowings of its cross section.

29) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the inner wheel forms recesses and ledges on its base which diminish its contact with the bottom of the annular depression.

30) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the inner wheel forms recesses and ledges on its periphery which diminish its contact with the inner surface of the tire tread.

31) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the inner wheel is crossed by a plurality of cross section openings as easing and elasticity means.

32) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein on the outer surface of each lateral segment of the tire rim, there are at least two blind holes placed at the same radius height, equally-spacedly separated to each other, as a means to modify on them, elements which facilitate threading and unthreading movements of the segments of the tire rim to each other.

33) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the lateral segments of the tire rim have all around the outer perimeter of the lip of the annular ledge and its adjacent parts, next to both side rims, a plurality of recesses and ledges mutually equal and regularly spaced as a means to limit rotation of the tire on the tire rim upon running under flat condition.

34) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the tire presents all around the perimeter of both inner edges of its minor diameter, a plurality of recesses and ledges with the same manner and distribution of those found on the tire rim.

35) A DEMOUNTABLE TIRE RIM WITH SPARE INNER WHEEL AND TIRE FOR SAID TIRE RIM according to claim 1 wherein the tire presents on the inner surface of the support tread which faces the major diameter surface of the inner wheel, a plurality of ledges mutually parallel which form a bearing means guided on the inner wheel upon running under flat condition.