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Title:
A RUN-FLAT ASSEMBLY
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2020/021268
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
An improved runflat wheel assembly comprising a hub having a rim and a circular or annular supporting member comprising at least two interlocking elements shaped to overlap and interlock radially at, along or around at least a partial circumference of the supporting member, wherein the interlocking elements comprise semi-circular or semi-annular sections, each having a protrusion and/or a recess at one or more ends thereof, for engaging with a complementary one of a recess and a protrusion of an end of another interlocking element; wherein, in use, a tyre is axially located and secured on the rim by the supporting member and/or a resilient member extending between the tyre and the supporting member.

Inventors:
ALLNUTT EDWARD (GB)
BATTRICK WILL (GB)
Application Number:
PCT/GB2019/052085
Publication Date:
January 30, 2020
Filing Date:
July 25, 2019
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
CARBON THREESIXTY LTD (GB)
International Classes:
B60C15/028; B60C17/06; B60C17/04
Foreign References:
EP2585319B12016-06-22
US3397728A1968-08-20
EP0836957A11998-04-22
EP2475535A12012-07-18
EP1538007A12005-06-08
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
CORNFORD, James (GB)
Download PDF:
Claims:
Index to reference numerals

I supporting member

3 supporting member resilient portion 10 interlocking element

I I outer protrusion

12 inner recess

13 inner protrusion

14 outer recess

15 inner wall

16 additional protrusion

17 slot or groove

20 outer (road side) flange

21 outer (road side) flange lip 22 rim

30 resilient member

31 partial recess of resilient member

40 inner (inside) flange

41 inner (inside) flange lip

50 tyre

51 tyre bead

100 wheel assembly

Claims

1. A wheel assembly comprising: a hub having a rim; and a circular or annular supporting member comprising at least two interlocking elements shaped to overlap and interlock radially at, along or around at least a partial circumference of the supporting member, wherein: the interlocking elements comprise semi-circular or semi-annular sections, each having a protrusion and/or a recess at one or more ends thereof, for engaging with a complementary one of a recess and a protrusion of an end of another interlocking element; and in use, a tyre is axially located and secured on the rim by the supporting member and/or a resilient member extending between the tyre and the supporting member.

2. The wheel assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a tyre, wherein the tyre is axially located and secured on the rim by the supporting member and/or a resilient member extending between the tyre and the supporting member.

3. The wheel assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the tyre is axially located and secured on the rim by the supporting member comprising a resilient portion extending between the tyre and a main body of the supporting member.

4. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the assembly comprises one or more resilient members extending between the tyre and the supporting member, axially locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on the rim of the hub and the tyre axially with respect to the rim.

5. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the tyre is axially located and secured on the rim by the supporting and/or resilient member(s) on both the inner and outer (road) sides of the wheel.

6. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein at least a bead of the tyre is axially sandwiched between the wheel rim and the supporting member.

7. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the tyre is axially sandwiched between the wheel rim and the supporting member by one or more resilient members.

8. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the interlocking elements interlock together such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another; or wherein the interlocking elements interlock together such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another when constrained by the wheel hub.

9. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the interlocking elements interlock such that when the support member is fitted to the wheel hub, at least one of the interlocking elements is pressed into engagement with another of the interlocking elements.

10. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein: at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending circumferentially from a first end and/or a complementary recess or slot; or a first interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending circumferentially from a first end thereof and a second interlocking elements is shaped to receive the protrusion extending circumferentially from the first end of the first interlocking element. 11. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending radially and/or a complementary recess or slot for further securing the interlocking elements together; and/or wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises multiple protrusions and/or recess at one or more ends thereof.

12. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein a protrusion of a first interlocking element has an L-shaped cross-section and a recess of a second interlocking element has an L-shaped cross-section, preferably wherein a first interlocking element comprises a protrusion having an L-shaped cross-section at both ends thereof; and a second interlocking element comprises a recess having an L-shaped cross- section at both ends thereof.

13. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the interlocking elements each comprise an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof.

14. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein: a. a first interlocking element comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at both first and second ends thereof; b. a second interlocking element comprises an outer circumferential protrusion at both first and second ends thereof; c. the first interlocking element further comprises complementary outer circumferential recesses at both the first and second ends thereof; and d. the second interlocking element further comprises complementary inner circumferential recesses at both the first and second ends thereof.

15. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the protrusions and recesses are concentric; and/or wherein, when interlocked, the protrusions and recesses overlap radially, concentrically or circumferentially.

16. The wheel assembly of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the interlocking elements each comprise an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof, and the interlocking elements interlock together to form the supporting member. 17. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein, when interlocked, the or each pair of complementary protrusions and recesses overlap circumferentially, having an overlap angle of 5-340°, 5-180°, preferably 10-90°, 15-75°, or 20-60°, more preferably 25-45°, or 25-35° and further preferably at least 20°, at least 30°, at least 35° or substantially 30°. 18. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof; and an angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°; and/or an angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175-

185°, most preferably substantially 180°.

19. The wheel assembly of claim 18, wherein: the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element; and the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element are the same; and/or wherein: the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the each interlocking element is the same; and/or the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of each interlocking element is the same.

20. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion or recess for interlocking axially; and/or wherein the interlocking elements are constructed from a fibre- reinforced material, preferably glass or carbon fibre; and/or wherein at least a tip of the protrusions of the interlocking elements are made from a more flexible material than a main body of the interlocking elements.

21. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein an inner circumference or circumferential wall of the interlocking elements tapers axially; and/or wherein an inner circumference or circumferential wall of the interlocking elements has a trapezoidal cross-section.

22. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the interlocking elements do not use or comprise fasteners; and/or wherein the supporting member is hollow; and/or further comprising a bracing or reinforcing element, such as a metal plate or beam extending around an intermediate circumference of the supporting member, for stiffening the supporting member. 23. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, further comprising one or more resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on the rim of the hub; and/or comprising a shoulder for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on the rim of the hub. 24. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim: a. wherein the supporting member consists of two interlocking elements having the same profile and the interlocking elements are interchangeable; and/or b. wherein the rim of the hub is tapered axially for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements and/or the tyre thereon; and/or c. further comprising one or more axially-tapering resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements and/or the tyre on the rim of the hub. 25. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon configured to 3D-print a wheel assembly in accordance with any preceding claim.

Description:
Title: A run-flat assembly Background

Run-flat tyres are designed to remain useable even after a puncture causes a loss of pressure in the tyre. Run-flat wheel systems typically comprise a reinforced sidewall and/or a supporting member in the wheel assembly that can temporarily support the tyre for a short distance, even in the event of a total loss of air pressure. The specification of the sidewall reinforcement/supporting member generally depends on the load carried and the speed.

Run-flat tyres/wheel systems have clear safety benefits as the tyre can still be used even when punctured, but there are weight penalties for the necessary reinforcing structure/supporting member. Supporting members that comprise annular sections that are secured together in an axial direction (preventing radial movement) with fasteners are known and are illustrated in figure 1.

The present invention aims to provide an improved supporting member for run- flat tyres and wheel assemblies.

Brief summary of the invention

The disclosure provides a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel assembly and a wheel comprising the supporting member. The present invention provides a run-flat wheel assembly as claimed.

The arrangements discussed herein are advantageous not least because the interlocking elements secure together circumferentially and interlock rather than merely overlap, which avoids the need to use fasteners which add weight, cost and complexity. Furthermore, the weight savings can in turn improve vehicle dynamics, payload and fuel efficiency.

Further aspects of the invention are discussed below.

Brief description of the drawings

In order for the present invention to be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof are now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGURE 1 shows a prior art supporting member for a run-flat tyre;

FIGURE 2 shows a plan view of a first embodiment of interlocking elements for a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel;

FIGURE 3 shows a perspective view of one interlocking element of figure 1 ; FIGURE 4 shows a side view of the supporting member of figure 1 ;

FIGURE 5 shows a partially exploded perspective view of the supporting member of figure 4;

FIGURES 6a and 6b show a side view and a close-up side view respectively of a single interlocking element for a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel;

FIGURE 7 shows a first perspective view of a wheel assembly comprising the supporting member of figure 1 ;

FIGURE 8 shows a second perspective view of the wheel assembly of figure

7; FIGURE 9 shows an exploded perspective view of the wheel assembly of figure 8;

FIGURE 10 shows an exploded side view of the wheel assembly of figure 7; FIGURE 1 1 shows an exploded perspective view of the wheel assembly of figure 7;

FIGURE 12 shows a cross-sectional view through a first embodiment of a wheel assembly; and

FIGURE 13 shows a cross-sectional view through a second embodiment of a wheel assembly;

FIGURE 14 shows a cross-sectional view through a third embodiment of a wheel assembly;

FIGURE 15 shows a plan view of a second embodiment of interlocking elements for a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel;

FIGURE 16 shows a plan view of a third embodiment of interlocking elements for a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel;

FIGURE 17 shows perspective view of a fourth embodiment of an interlocking element for a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel; and

FIGURE 18 shows perspective view of a fifth embodiment of an interlocking element for a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel.

Detailed description

Figure 2 shows a plan view of a first embodiment of a supporting member 1 for a run-flat tyre or wheel assembly.

The supporting member 1 comprises two interlocking elements 10a, 10b that interlock together to form the supporting member 1. Generally, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b comprise semi-annular sections, each having a main body with a protrusion and a recess at both ends thereof, for engaging with a complementary one of a recess and a protrusion of an end of another interlocking element 10a, 10b. In other embodiments, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b may be circular sections, for example with an integrated wheel hub.

In some embodiments, such as that shown in figure 2, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b are asymmetrical and have the same profile, thereby being interchangeable.

As best shown in figure 3, the two interlocking elements 10a, 10b preferably each have an outer circumferential protrusion 1 1 a (i.e. a protrusion extending circumferentially) at a first end, extending from the main body and an inner circumferential protrusion 13a at a second end, extending from the main body, with a complementary inner circumferential recess 12a at the first end of the main body and a complementary outer circumferential recess 14a at a second end of the main body.

With reference to the first interlocking element 10a shown in figure 2, this has an outer circumferential protrusion at A and an inner circumferential protrusion at B, with a complementary inner circumferential recess at C and a complementary outer circumferential recess at D.

Referring to figures 2 and 3, the recesses 12a, 14a of the first interlocking element 10a are shaped to receive the complementary protrusions 13b and 1 1 b of the second interlocking element 10b and similarly the recesses 12b, 14b of the second interlocking element 10a are shaped to receive the complementary protrusions 13a and 1 1 a of the second interlocking element 10b.

The interlocking elements 10a, 10b are shaped to overlap radially around at least a portion of an (intermediate) circumference. Of course, the tolerances in manufacturing and the stiffness (compressibility) of the materials used require a larger overlap than might theoretically be possible to control radial movement. Preferred overlap angles are discussed below. The known prior art supporting member of figure 1 comprises 3 elements that overlap axially and the overlapping elements are then secured radially with fasteners. The supporting member disclosed herein does not require fasteners. The interlocking elements 10a, 10b have an inner circumference, an intermediate circumference and an outer circumference. As shown in figure 2, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b overlap between the inner and outer circumference, with the inner 13a, 13b and outer 1 1 a, 1 1 b protrusions being concentric, thus the interlocking elements 10a, 10b can potentially also be described as interlocking‘concentrically’ or‘circumferentially’.

Preferably, the radial thicknesses of the protrusions 1 1 , 13 and recesses 12, 14 are half the radial thickness of the main body. In some embodiments, the outer protrusions 1 1 (and therefore their complementary recesses 14) are thicker than the inner protrusions 13 (and therefore their complementary recesses 12).

In another embodiment (not shown), the first interlocking element 10a comprises an inner circumferential protrusion 13 at both first and second ends thereof and the second interlocking element 10b comprises an outer circumferential protrusion 1 1 at both first and second ends thereof. The first interlocking element 10a further comprises complementary outer circumferential recesses 14 at both the first and second ends thereof; and the second interlocking element 10b further comprises complementary inner circumferential recesses 12 at both the first and second ends thereof. The interlocking elements 10a, 10b co-operate to interlock together at their respective ends in a radial direction. In other words, when interlocked, the complementary protrusions 1 1 , 13 and recesses 12, 14 overlap radially or circumferentially, or are concentric. In some configurations, particularly depending on the shape and size of the interlocking recesses and protrusions, the elements 10a, 10b cannot then readily be separated by a purely radial force without compressing the elements 10a, 10b (assuming they are machined accurately) or translating them (in a non-radial direction) at least when a central element, such as a wheel hub, is present. Thus, when the support member 1 is fitted to a wheel hub, at least one of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b is pressed into engagement with another of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b.

In other configurations, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b cannot readily be separated by a purely radial force without compressing the elements 10a, 10b or translating them even when a central element, such as a wheel hub, is not present. For example, the figure 2 embodiment shows opposing ends of the protrusions A-D and B-C at 180° to one another, marked by the dashed lines. If this angle was not equal for A-D and B-C, e.g. A-D: 90° and B-C 270° (using the same direction of measurement), then the interlocking elements 10a, 10b would be completely restrained radially with respect to one another even when a central element, such as a wheel hub, is not present.

In some embodiments, an angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion 13 and the end of the inner circumferential recess 12 of the same interlocking element (i.e. from B to C for element 10a; or vice-versa for element 10b) is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°; and/or an angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion 1 1 and the outer circumferential recess 14 of the same interlocking element (i.e. from A to D for element 10a or vice-versa for element 10b) is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160- 200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°.

The respective‘ends’ are marked by dashed lines in figure 2. Preferably, the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion 13 and the end of the inner circumferential recess 12 of the same interlocking element; and the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion 1 1 and the outer circumferential recess 14 of the same interlocking element, are the same.

If there are two interlocking elements 10a, 10b and the above angles are 180° and the radial thicknesses of the protrusions and recesses is half the radial thickness of the main body, then the elements 10a, 10b may be interchangeable.

Figure 2 also illustrates the overlap angle of the cooperating inner and outer protrusions of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b, i.e. B-D (or A-C) as shown. Preferably, all overlap angles are the same, but multiple different overlap angles may be used, as discussed further below. The overlap angle defines the degree of interlock between the interlocking elements 10a, 10b, i.e. the degree of restraint from outward radial movement of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b with respect to one another. A larger overlap angle provides greater resistance to radial forces, but can make assembly more difficult. In embodiments, an overlap angle of 5°-340°, 5-180°, preferably 10-90°, 15- 75°, or 20-60°, more preferably 25-45° or 25-35° and further preferably an overlap angle of at least 20°, at least 30°, at least 35° or substantially 30° is used.

Approximately 30° is a preferred angle as this provides a robust interlock preventing separation of the two elements 10a, 10b by a radial force in most directions even without a central element, such as a wheel hub, being present, whilst still providing straightforward assembly. Importantly, when assembled onto a wheel hub, the two elements 10a, 10b are restrained from outward radial movement in all directions. An overlap angle slightly larger than 30°, e.g. 35-45°, is also preferred as such an overlap angle can prevent separation of the two elements 10a, 10b by a radial force in any direction even without a central element, such as a wheel hub, being present. Figures 15 and 16 illustrate further embodiments similar to the interlocking elements 10a, 10b of figure 2, but with larger overlap angles. Figure 2 illustrates an overlap angle of approximately 60°, figure 15 illustrates an overlap angle of approximately 70-80° and figure 16 illustrates two differing (minor and major) overlap angles, showing a minimum (minor) overlap angle of approximately 120° and a maximum (major) overlap angle of approximately 200°.

Preferably all overlap angles satisfy the preferred ranges above, but in embodiments with multiple differing overlap angles, these ranges may be satisfied by the minor and/or major overlap angles.

Figures 4, 5, 6a and 6b show side views of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b of figure 2. As shown, in some embodiments, an inner circumferential wall 15 of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b tapers axially. In other words, an inner circumference of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b has a trapezoidal cross- section.

This arrangement is particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of buckling and improves handleability of the component in the moulding process.

Figures 7-1 1 illustrate a wheel assembly 100 embodying the present invention. Here, the wheel assembly 100 comprises a two-part wheel hub comprising an outer (road-side) flange 20, the flange 20 having a lip 21 and a rim 22 for receiving the interlocking elements 10a, 10b; and an inner (inside) flange 40 having a lip 41.

The wheel assembly 100 may further comprise one or more resilient members 30 for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements 10a, 10b on the rim 22. The resilient member(s) 30 provide(s) a compliant securing element helping to locate the supporting member 1 axially in the optimal place on the rim 22 of the wheel hub 20, where the supporting element 1 only supports the tyre 50 when very underinflated or flat, but not under normal loading conditions. The width (axial length) of the member 30 is sized to axially locate the supporting member 1 appropriately.

In some embodiments, multiple resilient members 30 may be used, for example a first resilient member 30a may be provided to secure the interlocking elements 10a, 10b relative to the outer (road-side) lip 21 of the wheel rim 22; and a second resilient member 30b may be provided to secure the interlocking elements 10a, 10b relative to the inner (inside) lip 41 of the wheel assembly 100, thus providing a double-bonded assembly between the two flanges 20, 40. Preferably, the wheel assembly 100 comprises a run-flat bead lock system that (in use, with a tyre) secures the tyre 50 to the wheel even when the tyre 50 is underinflated or punctured. Most tyres do not really stretch and can only be fitted to wheels if the tyre is received in a recess on the rim, to reduce the diameter. Rim recesses are generally manufactured to meet predetermined location and size requirements for receiving tyres in accordance with various specifications. Accordingly, a given wheel assembly may generally be used with multiple different tyres that meet the relevant specifications and tyres are of course interchangeable, thus the tyre itself is not key to the invention.

Bead lock is achieved by the assembly being configured to push at least a part (preferably bead 51 ) of the tyre 50 against the wheel rim, preferably against both flanges 20, 40, so that the tyre 50 stays on the wheel and the two rotate together even when the tyre 50 is under-inflated or flat.

In some embodiments, the bead lock system comprises the tyre 50 being axially located and secured on the rim 22, preferably against either (more preferably both) the outer (road side) and inner (inside) flange lips 21 , 41 , by a portion of the supporting member 1 exerting an axial force on the tyre 50, preferably pressing at least the tyre bead 51 into the lips 21 , 41 , as shown in figure 12, thereby axially securing the tyre 50 with respect to the rim 22. in figure 12, the tyre bead 51 is effectively sandwiched between the supporting member 1 and the flange lips 21 , 41.

In the two-part wheel hub comprising separate flanges 20, 40 as shown in figures 7-14, the flanges 20, 40 are secured together axially, which provides an axial clamping force on the tyre 50. in some embodiments, the clamping force may be adjustable within a predetermined range e.g. to accommodate varying tyre sizes in other embodiments, a single-piece wheel hub may be used.

In some embodiments, the supporting member 1 comprises inner 3a and outer 3b resilient (axial) support portions or legs, extending axially between the tyre 50 and a main body of the supporting member 1 to secure the tyre 50 via tyre bead 51 with respect to the rim 22 axially. These integral resilient support portions provide some flexibility to aid assembly of the wheel, whilst still supporting the tyre in runflaf conditions. In further embodiments, as shown in figures 13 and 14, the assembly may comprise one or more distinct, separate resilient members 30 (30a, 30b) extending at least between the tyre 50 and the supporting member 1 , preferably axially locating and/or securing the interlocking elements 10a, 10b on the wheel rim 22 and/or axially locating and/or securing the tyre 50 with respect to the rim 22. The resilient members 30 may further extend under the supporting member 1 as shown and/or be tapered, as discussed further below.

In preferred embodiments, the resilient member(s) 30 sandwich(es) the tyre 50 and the supporting member 1 between both flange lips 21 , 41 , as shown in figures 13 and 14. In some embodiments, the resilient members 30 and the supporting member 1 comprise complementary protrusions and recesses for securement together, preferably into interlocking engagement. In some embodiments (e.g. as shown in figures 10 and 1 1 ), a portion 22a of the wheel rim 22 may be tapered, which may aid to axially locate the inside of the supporting member 1 with respect to the hub, where the inner side of the tyre 50 (not shown in figures 10 and 1 1 - see figures 12 - 14 showing the tyre 50) sits between the lip 21 and the inner side of the supporting member 1 , so that the supporting member 1 pushes the tyre 50 up the taper, securing the tyre 50 on the wheel and preferably locking the inner tyre bead 51 axially against the lip 21. At the opposing end, the other (outer) side of the supporting member 1 is axially located and/or secured on the wheel at outer flange 40 by a resilient member 30, which also axially locates and/or secures the outer side of the tyre 50 against the flange 40, locking the outer tyre bead 51 axially against the lip 41. As briefly outlined above, figures 13 and 14 illustrate some preferred configurations of multiple resilient members 30 locating the supporting member 1 to support the tyre 50 in run-flat conditions. In the first configuration of figure 13, two resilient members 30a, 30b are provided: a first member 30a supporting the supporting member 1 and a second member 30b locating and/or securing the first resilient member 30a and thereby the supporting member 1 , or directly locating and/or securing the supporting member 1 as shown (the gaps shown are exaggerated for clarity). The first resilient member 30a is generally L-shaped in cross-section, extending from the lip 21 of the rim 22, under the supporting member 1 and preferably tapers axially (as shown) to locate and/or secure the supporting member 1 in an axial direction, in the partial recess 31 a, to support the tyre 50 in run-flat conditions. The second resilient member 30b is generally rectangular or square in cross-section, extending from the opposing lip 41 of the wheel hub and having a radial thickness greater than that of the section of the first resilient member 30a supporting the element 10a, securing the supporting member 1 in the recess 31 a of the first resilient member 30a and securing the supporting member 1 axially. In the second configuration of figure 14, four resilient members 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d are used. In this embodiment, there are matching pairs of resilient elements 30a, 30d; and 30b, 30c that have the same profile and are interchangeable to aid assembly. The first pair 30a, 30d are sized to locate the supporting member 1 axially and the second pair 30b, 30c are shaped to taper axially and secure the supporting member 1 axially in their respective partial recesses 31 b, 31 c. Of course, members 30a+30b and 30b+30c may be combined as one piece in some embodiments. Preferably, where multiple resilient members 30 are used, they comprise complementary protrusions and recesses for securement together, preferably into interlocking engagement.

In some embodiments, and as shown in figure 10, at least a portion 22a of the rim 22 of the outer (road-side) flange 20 tapers axially. The optional tapering of the rim 22 and/or the optional tapering of the resilient members 30a, 30b 30c, 30d is beneficial to further locate and/or secure the supporting element 1 and/or the tyre 50 in place, as discussed above. The tapering also provides a radial force which forces the interlocking elements 10a, 10b together in locking alignment, securing them more robustly. The present invention may also be applied to existing wheel rims that are not tapered and the tapering of the resilient members 30 is particularly advantageous here for axially locating the supporting member 1 and/or the tyre 50 with respect to the rim 22 where the rim 22 does not taper axially.

In some embodiments, the wheel assembly 100 comprises a shoulder (not shown) for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements 10a, 10b on the rim 22. For example, the shoulder may be located on an edge of the rim 22, on an outer face or on a band of the wheel assembly 100.

In some embodiments, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b are hollow to provide additional weight savings. In some embodiments, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b further comprise a bracing or reinforcing element, such as a metal plate or beam extending around an intermediate circumference of the supporting member, for stiffening the supporting member 1.

In some embodiments, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b are constructed from a fibre-reinforced material, preferably glass, carbon, bio-derived or high tenacity fibre.

In some embodiments, at least a tip of the protrusions 1 1 , 13 of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b are made from a more flexible material than the main body of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b. For example, the flexible tip may be the final 10-20% of the total length of the protrusion, to aid assembly. Figure 17 illustrates a further embodiment wherein the interlocking element 10a of figure 3 further comprises an additional protrusion or elongate flange 16a extending circumferentially at an intermediate portion of the outer protrusion 1 1 a, with a complementary circumferential slot or groove 17a in the inner protrusion 13a, for receiving a complementary additional protrusion 16b of a co-operating interlocking element 10b. These complementary protrusions and slots/grooves further secure the interlocking elements 10a, 10b together. In figure 17, the protrusion and complementary slot are concentric with the curvature of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b.

In figure 17, both the additional protrusion or elongate flange 16 and the slot or groove 17 extend circumferentially and co-operating interlocking elements 10a, 10b thus further engage circumferentially, resisting axial movement. In further embodiments, the protrusion and complementary slot are set at an offset angle from extending circumferentially, not concentric with the curvature of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b, preferably offset at 5-60° from being concentric, for ease of assembly of a wheel assembly from the side of a tyre.

In further embodiments (not shown), the slot or groove 17 may be radial (i.e. offset by 90° from extending circumferentially), where co-operating interlocking elements 10a, 10b thereby further engage radially. The additional protrusion or elongate flange 16 and complementary slot or groove 17 may be located anywhere on the interlocking element 10a, 10b but are preferably located at or proximal to respective ends of the protrusions 1 1 , 13 as shown.

Figure 18 illustrates a further embodiment of the interlocking element 10a. In this embodiment, both protrusions 1 1 , 13 are stepped, i.e. L-shaped in cross- section, with corresponding recesses 12 and 14. Accordingly, the complementary interlocking element 10b comprises curved protrusions 13, 1 1 (not shown) that co-operate with the L-shaped protrusions 1 1 , 13 of interlocking element 10a. In further embodiments, a first end of the interlocking element 10a comprises a stepped, i.e. L-shaped in cross-section protrusion 1 1 , with corresponding inner recess 12, as shown in figure 16, whilst a second end of the interlocking element 10a (not as shown in figure 16) comprises a stepped, i.e. L-shaped in cross-section, recess 14, with corresponding inner protrusion 13. These embodiments are further beneficial as they aid assembly by securing the interlocking elements 10a, 10b with respect to one another axially.

The embodiments illustrated show two interlocking elements 10a, 10b, but any number of interlocking elements may be used.

Preferred features

1. A circular or annular supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements, wherein the interlocking elements interlock radially, concentrically or circumferentially.

2. A ring-shaped supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements shaped to overlap and interlock radially at, along or around at least a partial circumference of the ring. 3. A circular or annular supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements, wherein the interlocking elements interlock such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another.

4. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the interlocking elements interlock together such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another; or wherein the interlocking elements interlock together such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another when constrained by a central element, preferably a wheel hub.

5. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the interlocking elements interlock together to form the supporting member; and/or wherein the interlocking elements have first and second ends and the interlocking elements co-operate to interlock together at their respective ends; and/or wherein the interlocking elements interlock such that when the support member is fitted to a wheel hub, at least one of the interlocking elements is pressed into engagement with another of the interlocking elements. 6. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein: at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending circumferentially from a first end and/or a complementary recess or slot; or a first interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending circumferentially from a first end thereof and a second interlocking elements is shaped to receive the protrusion extending circumferentially from the first end of the first interlocking element.

7. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending radially and/or a complementary recess or slot for further securing the interlocking elements together; and/or wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises multiple protrusions and/or recess at one or more ends thereof.

8. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the interlocking elements comprise semi-circular or semi-annular sections, each having a protrusion and/or a recess at one or more ends thereof, for engaging with a complementary one of a recess and a protrusion of an end of another interlocking element.

9. The supporting member of clause 8, wherein a protrusion of a first interlocking element has an L-shaped cross-section and a recess of a second interlocking element has an L-shaped cross-section, preferably wherein a first interlocking element comprises a protrusion having an L- shaped cross-section at both ends thereof; and a second interlocking element comprises a recess having an L-shaped cross-section at both ends thereof.

10. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the interlocking elements each comprise an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof.

1 1. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein: a. a first interlocking element comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at both first and second ends thereof; b. a second interlocking element comprises an outer circumferential protrusion at both first and second ends thereof; c. the first interlocking element further comprises complementary outer circumferential recesses at both the first and second ends thereof; and d. the second interlocking element further comprises complementary inner circumferential recesses at both the first and second ends thereof.

12. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the protrusions and recesses are concentric; and/or wherein, when interlocked, the protrusions and recesses overlap radially, concentrically or circumferentially. The supporting member of any of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the interlocking elements each comprise an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof, and the interlocking elements interlock together to form the supporting member. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein, when interlocked, the or each pair of complementary protrusions and recesses overlap circumferentially, having an overlap angle of 5-340°,

5-180°, preferably 10-90°, 15-75°, or 20-60°, more preferably 25-45°, or 25-35° and further preferably at least 20°, at least 30°, at least 35° or substantially 30°. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof; and an angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°; and/or an angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is

90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175- 185°, most preferably substantially 180°. The supporting member of clause 15, wherein: the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element; and the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element are the same; and/or wherein: the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the each interlocking element is the same; and/or the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of each interlocking element is the same. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion or recess for interlocking axially; and/or wherein the interlocking elements are constructed from a fibre- reinforced material, preferably glass or carbon fibre; and/or wherein at least a tip of the protrusions of the interlocking elements are made from a more flexible material than a main body of the interlocking elements. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein an inner circumference or circumferential wall of the interlocking elements tapers axially; and/or wherein an inner circumference or circumferential wall of the interlocking elements has a trapezoidal cross-section. 19. The supporting member of any preceding clause, sized to pass into a tyre cavity for fitting to a wheel assembly; and/or wherein the interlocking elements do not use or comprise fasteners; and/or wherein the supporting member is hollow; and/or further comprising a bracing or reinforcing element, such as a metal plate or beam extending around an intermediate circumference of the supporting member, for stiffening the supporting member.

20. A supporting member or wheel assembly substantially as shown in figures 2-17.

21. A single interlocking element in accordance with any preceding clause for use in run-flat tyre or wheel.

22. A wheel assembly comprising a hub and the supporting member of any preceding clause. 23. The wheel assembly of clause 22, further comprising one or more resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub; and/or comprising a shoulder for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub. 24. The wheel assembly of any preceding clause: a. wherein a rim of the hub is tapered axially for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub; and/or b. further comprising one or more axially-tapering resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub.

25. A method of assembling a run-flat wheel, comprising: securing the at least two interlocking elements of any of clauses 1 to 29 together on a wheel rim, interlocking the elements together to provide the supporting member; fitting a tyre over the supporting member; and securing a flange to the wheel rim. 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising: axially location and securing the supporting member on the wheel rim using a resilient member.

27. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon configured to 3D-print an interlocking element, supporting element or wheel assembly in accordance with any preceding claim.

28. A kit of parts comprising the interlocking elements of any of clauses 1- 21.

29. The kit of parts of clause 28, further comprising a wheel and/or a tyre.

When used in this specification and clauses, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following clauses, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments or clauses described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiments or clauses described herein..




 
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