AU2021377728A1 - Cover assembly for protection of wheel rim - Google Patents

Abstract

An assembly for cover protection of a wheel rim, during removal or mounting of the tyre to protect the rim. The assembly comprises; a cover member having a shaped wall with a cross sectional profile defining a recess which, in use, accommodates the wheel rim. The cover member includes opposing ends which move between a first state in which the ends are separated for removal of the cover from the rim and a second state in which the opposite ends are opposed and aligned and the cover is locked about the rim. The cover further comprising a locking mechanism to enable selective locking and unlocking of the cover about the wheel rim when placed about the rim. The locking mechanism includes at least one locking toggle which operates to hold said ends in alignment for locking and disengage for unlocking. The assembly further comprises a rim liner locatable in the recess of said wheel rim cover and which engages the shaped wall profile of the cover.

Description

COVER ASSEMBLY FOR PROTECTION OF A WHEEL RIM

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present invention relates to tyre changing and removal equipment and more particularly to equipment for protecting a wheel rim from unwanted damage during removal or installation of a tyre from a wheel hub. More particularly, the invention relates to a releasable assembly for covering and peripherally protecting a wheel rim from damage in a case where tyre removal tools and equipment would otherwise engage the rim. The invention further relates to a removable peripheral cover and co -operating liner which protects a wheel rim during use of a tyre extraction tools.

PRIOR ART

[0002] There are in the prior art various methods and associated implements for removal of tyres from wheel rims including alloy rims. Known in the art are manual tyre levers and automatic tyre changing machines which prise a rubber tyre from a wheel rim. Typically, the tyre changing machine comprises of a rotatable table and several hydraulic jaw clamps. A wheel typically comprises a centre bore, spokes, rim and inside bead areas which accommodate a tyre profile. When inflated, the tyre seats in the bead areas which are adjacent to the rim on either side.

[0003] In tyre removal, the tyre edge must be urged over the rim using tooling. The wheel is typically secured to the table with the jaw clamps which are activated by a foot lever, thus allowing the wheel to be rotated in unison with the table. This allows the user to gain access to the full circumference of the wheel which is optimal when removing a tyre from a rim. A head is used to separate the tyre from the rim while it is engaged and the wheel rotates. The head can potentially damage the wheel rims and particularly alloy wheel rims when heads become worn arising from prolonged use. Damage to wheel rims is expensive and in some cases the cost is bom for repairs by the tyre fitter. This impacts on job profits and is wholly undesirable for the consumer.

[0004] Significant forces are applied during tyre replacements so the prospects of unwanted damage and economic loss is high. Damage caused which is attributable to the tyre fitter essentially becomes the fitter’s responsibility to address and at the fitter’s cost. Damage potentially involves scraping of the rim surfaces, deformations, indentations, abrasions and potentially local pitting or cutting. If the job is performed manually, the use of levers can potentially cause point load damage where the lever makes contact with the rim. This is often coupled with scraping damage. Tyres are tightly fitted to wheels so their removal and replacement involves negotiating the wheel rim without damage.

[0005] Damage is difficult to avoid especially with worn heads and where levers are used. Repairing such damage can be costly and time consuming especially when wheel rims require CNC machining, colour matching basecoat paints and then recoating it with clear lacquer. Repairs take the wheel out of service and could take several days so the customer is without the wheel for as long as the repairs take.

[0006] There is high potential for rim damage when conventional methods of tyre removal are employed. The damage can be random and unexpected so the tyre fitter cannot always control the extent and type of damage and when that might occur on a particular job. There is a need to provide an effective solution to the unwanted damage to wheels and particularly to the wheel rim often occasioned during tyre removal. None of the current equipment is effective in avoidance of unwanted rim damage. INVENTION

[0007] In order to address the shortcomings of the prior art and ameliorate the disadvantages of the known equipment, the present invention provides an assembly for releasable fitting to a wheel rim to enable protection of a wheel rim during removal and replacement of a tyre on a wheel. More particularly the invention provides a releasable and lockable assembly for covering and peripherally protecting by cushioning a wheel rim when tyre removal tools urge a tyre past a wheel rim. The invention further provides a removable peripheral cover and co-operating liner which protects a wheel rim during use of a tyre extraction lever and other tyre removal equipment.

[0008] In another broad form the present invention comprises: an assembly for cover protection of a wheel rim: the assembly comprising; an annular cover member having a shaped wall profile defining a recess which when in use accommodates a wheel rim; the cover including opposing ends move between a first state in which the ends are separated for removal of the cover and a second state in which the ends are engaged and the cover is locked about the rim: the annular cover further comprising a locking mechanism to enable selective locking of the cover about the wheel rim when placed about the rim, the locking mechanism including at least one locking toggle which operates to enable the said ends to engage and disengage: the assembly further comprising a rim liner locatable on said wheel rim and which engages the shaped wall profile of the annular cover.

[0009] In another broad form of an apparatus aspect the present invention comprises: an assembly for cover protection of a wheel rim, during removal or mounting of the tyre to protect the rim; the assembly comprising; a cover member having a shaped wall with a cross sectional profile defining a recess which, in use, accommodates the wheel rim; the cover member including opposing ends which move between a first state in which the ends are separated for removal of the cover from the rim and a second state in which the opposite ends are opposed and aligned and the cover is locked about the rim; the cover further comprising a locking mechanism to enable selective locking and unlocking of the cover about the wheel rim when placed about the rim, the locking mechanism including at least one locking toggle which operates to enable the said ends to oppose for locking and disengage for unlocking; the locking mechanism allowing selection of a degree of tightness of the cover when the cover is locked against the wheel rim, the assembly further comprising a rim liner locatable in the recess of said wheel rim cover and which engages the shaped wall profile of the cover.

[0010] According to one embodiment rim liner comprises a rubberised layer integral with the annular cover, according to an alternative embodiment the liner is releasably engageable with either the wheel rim or the annular cover. According to one embodiment each end of the annular cover terminates in a plate on which is mounted parts of the locking toggle mechanism. On one part of one said plates there is provided a locking anchor. On one part of the other said plates there is provided a locking toggle latch which allows spring loaded adjustment of the wheel rim cover imparting sufficient compression to ensure safe engagement with the wheel rim.

[0011] In another broad form of a method aspect the present invention comprises: a method for protecting a wheel rim using a wheel rim cover assembly comprising; an annular cover member having a shaped wall profile defining a recess which when in use accommodates a peripheral contour of a wheel rim: the cover including opposing ends moves between a first state in which the ends are separated for removal of the cover from the rim and a second state in which the ends are engaged and the cover is locked about the rim; a locking assembly to enable selective locking of the cover against the wheel rim using a locking toggle latch and a rim liner locatable on the wheel rim; the method comprising the steps of: a) placing a bead spacer about a periphery of a wheel rim between the rim and a tyre; b) providing between the wheel rim and cover a protective liner; c) placing the cover member loosely about the wheel rim and setting the cover ready for locking; d) aligning the ends of the cover via the aligning assembly and locking the cover against the rim by actuation of the locking mechanism .

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment a user engages the foot lever of the tyre changing machines, thereby enabling the turntable to rotate either clockwise or anti clockwise following which the tyre fitter removes the tyre bead spacer prior to removing the tyre from the wheel. The tyre is manipulated so that the tyre is urged past the cover avoiding direct contact with the wheel rim. According to a preferred embodiment the rim cover has a profile when viewed in cross section which accommodates a wheel rim profile. Preferably the arc defining the ring of the cover is larger than the size of the rim profile and allows for a protective liner which intervenes between an inner surface of the cover and the rim. According to one embodiment, the locking mechanism employed is a spring-loaded locking toggle. This provides a cushioning effect between the cover and rim and avoids damage by direct contact between the cover and wheel rim. Preferably, the ring of the cover is arcuate this can be adjusted to accommodate a variety of rim profiles. The cross section of the cover can be U shaped, crescent shaped, C shaped, arcuate, or any suitable shape to suit a particular rim profile. The ring is adapted to expand circumferentially to fit over the rim and close to tight engagement. The cover protects the rim during removal of the tyre by traditional methods and using existing and if fact any equipment and whether the tyre is removed using such equipment or manually. [0013] Although the engaging arrangement to be described below employs co- operating toggle assemblies which close the cover circumferentially about the ring, it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that other forms of releasable engagement are contemplated including alternative locking engagements and fixing the cover to the wheel rim for example inside the rim periphery or to tyre changing equipment. Also, the use of a liner avoids any unwanted abrasions of the rim by the cover material. In an alternative embodiment, the cover is manufactured from a plastics material which avoids the metal on metal abrasion risk. Materials contemplated include such materials as carbon fibre, graphite, polypropylene. Manufacture of the cover from plastics can provide an alternative to the liner either integral with the rim or as a separate component.

[0014] Alternatively, the cover is provided in two opposing pieces which mutually engage by separate locking connection. For example, the cover maybe provided as two opposing semi circles or as one arcuate ring with an abbreviated circumference which can be positioned at a location where tooling might otherwise damage the rim. In that case the cover would not fully envelop the wheel rim.

[0015] In another broad form the present invention provides a kit used for the protection of a wheel rim during removal from and/or installation of a tyre on a wheel, the kit comprising: an annular cover having a peripheral body formed to accommodate and protect a profile of a wheel rim during tyre movement about the rim; the cover including a locking assembly which enables locking engagement between the cover and the wheel; a liner associated with the cover to eliminate unwanted contact between the cover and rim; the kit providing protection for a variety of wheel rim sizes and configurations. According to preferred embodiments, the liner comprises a resilient plastics or rubberised material which conforms to a shape of a wheel rim. The kit allows user selection of a suitable size cover depending upon the wheel rim size and configuration.

[0016] The present invention provides an alternative to the known prior art and the shortcomings identified. The foregoing and other objects and advantages will appear from the description to follow. In the description reference is made to the accompanying representations, which forms a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments will be described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilised and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In the accompanying illustrations, like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views.

[0017] The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is best defined by the embodiments described. The examples referred to herein are illustrative and are not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the invention. While various embodiments of the invention have been described herein, it will be appreciated that these are capable of modification, and therefore the disclosures herein are not to be construed as limiting of the precise details set forth, but to avail such changes and alterations as fall within the purview of the description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The invention will now be described in more detail according to a preferred embodiment and with reference to the accompanying illustrations wherein;

Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective view of the assembly according to a preferred embodiment.

Figure 2 shows with corresponding numbering for corresponding parts, a fully assembled perspective view of the assembly of figure 1 fitted to a wheel rim.

Figure 3. shows with corresponding numbering a pian view of the assembly of figure 2

Figure 4 shows with corresponding numbering a cross sectional elevation view of the fitted assembly of figure 3

Figure 5 shows with corresponding numbering an enlarged view of the relationship between the bead spacer 25 and cover 2.

Figure 6 shows with corresponding numbering for corresponding parts, a fully assembled perspective view of the assembly of figure 1 fitted to a wheel rim 21.

Figure 7 shows an enlarged view of a toggle locking assembly 40 and aligning guide 41 according to one embodiment.

Figure 8 shows with corresponding numbering a similar arrangement to that described in Figure 7 including aligning guide but this time, there is disclosed an alternative toggle locking assembly. Figures 9a-d show with corresponding numbering, a latch hook from a perspective view, plan view, elevation view and end profile view.

Figure 10 shows an exploded view of a cover assembly isolated from a wheel.

Figure 11 shows an assembled view of the cover assembly of figure 10.

Figure 12 shows a side elevation view of the cover assembly of figure 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The invention to be described below with reference to various embodiments is enabled by use of a unique assembly which eliminates damage to wheel rims caused when removing tyres. The composite construction of the assembly described herein is adaptable for both domestic and industrial applications including large- and small-scale tyre removals.

[0020] Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective view of the assembly according to a preferred embodiment. The assembly comprises a cover 1 having an annular ring 2 terminating in opposing ends 3 and 4. End 3 engages an angled plate 5 having one end 6 which engages ring 2 near end 3 and a second end 7 which engages ring 2 at location 8. Likewise end 4 engages an angled plate 9 having one end 10 which engages ring 2 near end 4 and a second end 11 which engages ring 2 at location 12. Mounted on plate 5 is a first anchor 13 and on plate 9 a second anchor 14 including a locking toggle 15. (Further described below). Locking toggle 14 and first and second anchors 13 and 14 co -operate to enable selective locking of ring 2 by urging ends 3 and 4 into an opposing and aligned relationship. Toggle 15 is according to one embodiment spring loaded to maintain a compression force on the cover 1 urging it into a locked state. The assembly further comprises a liner 20 selectively adaptable to peripheral rims 21 and/or 22 of wheel drum 23. Wheel drum 23 has a conventional profile formed to accommodate tyre edges and includes rims 21 and 22 which retain a tyre 24. Bead spacer 25 comprises an annular body 26 terminating in a handle 27.

[0021] Figure 2 shows with corresponding numbering for corresponding parts, a fully assembled perspective view of the assembly of figure 1 fitted to a wheel rim. Wheel drum 23 is in this instance fitted with tyre 24. Cover 1 is fitted to rim 21 over liner 20. Disposed between cover 1 and tyre 24 is a bead spacer 25. Bead spacer 25 provides a buffer between tyre 24 and cover 2 and a prising bearing surface to assist in pressing the tyre 24 down away from the rim 21. Located on plate 5 is a bridge 28 which engages with locating tab 29. This enables alignment of ends 3 and 4 of cover 2 during locking.

[0022] Figure 3. shows with corresponding numbering a plan view of the assembly of figure 2. Figure 4 shows with corresponding numbering a cross sectional elevation view of the fitted assembly of figure 3

[0023] Figure 5 shows with corresponding numbering an enlarged view of the relationship between the bead spacer 25 and cover 2. Liner 20 provides a ‘cushion’ between rim 21 and inner surface 31 of cover 2. The cross sectional profile of cover 2 is shaped to accommodate the contour of rim 21 or rim 22. The contour can be arcuate or substantially U shaped or otherwise profiled to suit. Bead spacer 25 includes an extension arm 32

[0024] Figure 6 shows with corresponding numbering for corresponding parts, a fully assembled perspective view of the assembly of figure 1 fitted to a wheel rim 21. Wheel drum 23 is in this instance shown with tyre 24 removed. Cover 1 is fitted to rim 21 over liner 20 as previously described in Figure 5. Bead spacer 25 provides a buffer between tyre 24 and cover 2 and a prising bearing surface to assist in pressing the tyre 24 down away from the rim 21. [0025] Figure 7 shows an enlarged view of a toggle locking assembly 40 and aligning guide 41 according to one embodiment. Angled plates 42 and 43 accommodate the locking assembly 40 and guide 41. Locking assembly 40 comprises an anchor 44 fastened to plate 42 and locking toggle 47 which is spring loaded via co -operating springs 45 and 46. Toggle 47 is anchored by and pivots about pivot pin 49. The tightness of locking depends upon the pre -set tension in springs 45 and 46. Aligning guide 41 is mounted across plates 42 and 43 and comprises bridge 50 which receives and retains aligning tab 51. According to one embodiment, one toggle locking assembly is employed. According to an alternative embodiment, a second locking assembly ( not shown) may be attached to plates 42 and 43.

[0026] Figure 8 shows with corresponding numbering a similar arrangement to that described in Figure 7 including aligning guide 41 but this time, there is disclosed an alternative toggle locking assembly 60. Angled plates 42 and 43 accommodate locking assembly 60 which comprises an anchor 66 fastened to plate 42 and locking toggle 62. Aligning guide 41 is mounted across plates 42 and 43 and comprises bridge 50 which receives and retains aligning tab 51 as previously described. Toggle 62 is shown engaged with anchor plate 61 via engagement between pin 63 retained in saddle 64. Locking assembly 60 includes a second saddle 65 which allows a user to select two positions of tightness/locking.

[0027] In use, wheel rim protective cover assembly 1 may be applied according to one embodiment by adopting the following steps. A bead spacer 25 is located about the wheel hub/drum 23. Liner 20 is applied to rim 21 of wheel drum 23. Ring 2 of annular cover 1 has a shaped wall profile (best shown in figure 5) defining a recess which when in use accommodates wheel rim 21. Since liner 20 has been applied, ring 2 receives and retains the liner with both accommodating and protecting the rim 21. Cover 1 is then locked against the wheel rim by activating toggle 15. In this case opposing ends of the cover move between a first state in which the ends are separated to allow attachment of the rim and a second state in which the ends 3 and 4 of the cover are engaged and the ring 2 of cover 1 and liner 20 are fully engaged with the rim. The cover is secured about the rim using the toggle locking mechanisms described earlier.

[0028] By engaging the foot lever of the tyre changing machine enables the turntable to rotate either clockwise or anti clockwise. The tyre fitter needs to remove the tyre bead spacer prior to the tyre being urged past the cover avoiding direct contact with and therefore damage to the wheel rim. The cover assembly removes 1 the risk of wheel rim damage occasioned by use of conventional tyre changing equipment such as impact or abrasion by the head of a conventional tyre changing apparatus. The cover assembly 1 a complete barrier to unwanted impact and abrasion to the wheel rim. The associated liner 20 provides a cushion between cover ring 2 and rim 21. The life of the cover assembly will be a function of the extent of its use and material of construction, but the cost of replacement of the cover assembly outweighs the costs of repair to damage to a wheel rim. Liner 20 is included in the assembly as integrated ( such as by gluing, crimping or other suitable means) with inside surface 31 of cover 2. Alternatively, it may be a separate circular rubberised liner.

[0029] Figures 9a-d shows enlarged views, of a latch hook 66 from a perspective view, plan view, elevation view and end profile view. Latch hook 66 is similar to latch hook 61 described in Figure 8 and has a similar configuration. With best reference to figure 9a, Latch hook 66 comprises base plate 67 which in use is fastened via openings 68, 69, 70 and 71. Latch hook 66 includes saddles 72 and 73 which provide selective locking engagement for a co operating toggle such as toggle 62 in Figure 8. [0030] Figure 10 shows an exploded perspective view of a cover assembly 80 isolated from a wheel rim. an alternative embodiment. The assembly comprises a cover 81 having an annular ring 82 terminating in opposing ends 83 and 84. End 83 engages an angled plate 85 having one end 86 which engages ring 82 near end 83 and a second end 87 which engages ring 82 at location 88. Likewise end 84 engages an angled plate 89 having one end 90 which engages ring 82 near end 84 and a second end 91 which engages ring 82 at location 92.

[0031] Spanning across plates 85 and 89 and mounted thereon is a latching assembly 93 ( whose operation is similar to that described with reference to figure 8), which comprises a locking toggle 94 and an anchor plate 66 (described in more detail with reference to figure 9). Anchor 66 further comprises two recess which enable operator selective alternative locking positions depending upon the locking tension required. Guide arm 97 assists in alignment of the opposing ends 83 and 84 of ring 82 during first engagement and locking. Guide arm 97 is retained in saddle 98.

[0032] Figure 11 shows an assembled view of the cover assembly 80 of figure 10. Figure 12 shows a side elevation view of the cover assembly 80 of figure 10.

[0033] The present invention described herein has numerous advantages over the conventional methods of tyre removal and replacement. Unwanted rim damage is avoided and during the removal process, the user can work quickly without having to monitor contact with the wheel rim otherwise potentially causing rim damage. The assembly is relatively simple to install, operate and remove, is re-useable, durable and obviates the prior need for experienced personnel practised in careful tyre removal to avoid rim damage. The assembly provides a relatively economic solution to avoid the potentially expensive and damaging rim contact between tyre removal implements and a wheel rim.

[0034] Another important advantage is the capacity for expeditious attachment and removal of the assembly from a wheel rim. Although construction of the cover from metal materials is preferred, other durable materials such as rubberised and heavy-duty plastics can be used.

[0035] It will be recognised by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the invention described herein without departing from the overall spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (1)

1. THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION:

   1 An assembly for cover protection of a wheel rim, during removal or mounting of the tyre to protect the rim; the assembly comprising; a cover member having a shaped wall with a cross sectional profile defining a recess which, in use, accommodates the wheel rim; the cover member including opposing ends which move between a first state in which the ends are separated for removal of the cover from the rim and a second state in which the opposite ends are opposed and aligned and the cover is locked about the rim; the cover further comprising a locking mechanism to enable selective locking and unlocking of the cover about the wheel rim when placed about the rim, the locking mechanism including at least one locking toggle which operates to enable the said ends to oppose for locking and disengage for unlocking; the locking mechanism allowing selection of a degree of tightness of the cover when the cover is locked against the wheel rim, the assembly further comprising a rim liner locatable in the recess of said wheel rim cover and which engages the shaped wall profile of the cover.

   2 An assembly according to claim 1 wherein, the cover has an outer convex surface and the recess forms an inner concave surface.

   3 An assembly according to claim 2 wherein, the cover is annular and continuous about the periphery of the wheel rim.

   4 An assembly according to claim 3 further comprising a first plate disposed within a first quadrant of the annular cover and a second plate disposed within a second quadrant of the annular' cover. 5 An assembly according to claim 4 wherein, the first plate includes a locating bridge.

   6 An assembly according to claim 5 wherein, the second plate includes a locating tab.

   7 An assembly according to claim 6 wherein the bridge and tab provide an aligning guide to thereby align opposing ends of said annular cover..

   8 An assembly according to claim 7 wherein locking of the cover provides sufficient tightness to prevent relative movement between the cover and the rim during use

   9 An assembly according to claim 8 wherein, the rim liner has an outer surface which engages the inner concave surface of the cover recess and an inner surface which engages the wheel rim

   10 An assembly according to claim 9 wherein, the locking mechanism employs a spring-loaded locking toggle.

   11 An assembly according to claim 10 wherein the rim liner is a rubberised material which provides a cushioning effect between the cover and rim and avoids any damage caused if there exists direct contact between the cover and wheel rim.

   12 An assembly according to claim 11 wherein the liner is fused with the inner concave surface of the cover.

   13 An assembly according to claim 12 wherein, the cover is manufactured from a metal 14 An assembly according to claim 12 wherein, the cover is manufactured from a plastics material.

   15 An assembly according to claim 14 wherein, the cover is manufactured from materials selected from carbon fibre, graphite, polypropylene.

   16 A wheel rim protection assembly capable of releasable attachment to a wheel rim, the assembly comprising a cover including a ring body having a shaped profile extending when in use, circumferentially about the rim at least part of a full circumference of the wheel rim, a locking mechanism mounted on co-operating plates mounted to an inside the ring body of the cover: the locking mechanism urging the protection assembly between a first state in which the ring body is releasable from the wheel rim and a second state in which the ring is locked against the wheel rim; an aligning guide comprising a bridge on one plate and a tab on the other plate which aligns ends of the ring during locking of the protection assembly: the assembly further comprising a liner associated with the ring and providing a releasable barrier between the wheel rim and an inner contoured surface of the ring.

   17 A protection assembly according claim 16 wherein the liner has an abrasion resistant surface which engages the wheel rim.

   18 A protection assembly according claim 17 wherein, the rim liner comprises a rubberised layer integrally attached to the annular cover.

   19 A protection assembly according claim 18 wherein, the locking mechanism comprises a toggle which is lockable against an anchor plate.

   20 A protection assembly according claim 19 wherein, the locking mechanism is spring loaded. 21 A protection assembly according claim 20 wherein, the locking assembly is has selective locking positions.

   22 A method for protecting a wheel rim using a wheel rim cover assembly comprising; an annular cover member having a shaped wall profile defining a recess which when in use accommodates a peripheral contour of a wheel rim; the cover including opposing ends moves between a first state in which the ends are separated for removal of the cover from the rim and a second state in which the ends are engaged and the cover is locked about the rim: a locking assembly to enable selective locking of the cover against the wheel rim using a locking toggle latch and a rim liner locatable on the wheel rim: the method comprising the steps of: a) placing a bead spacer about a periphery of a wheel rim between the rim and a tyre; b) providing between the wheel rim and cover a protective liner; c) placing the cover member loosely about the wheel rim and setting the cover ready for locking; d) aligning the ends of the cover and locking the cover against the rim by actuation of the locking mechanism.

   23 A method according to claim 22, comprising the further steps of: a) engagement by the user of the foot lever of the tyre changing machine, thereby enabling a turntable on which the tyre is mounted to rotate either clockwise or anti clockwise; b) removing the tyre bead spacer prior to removing the tyre from the wheel; and c) urging the tyre past the cover avoiding direct contact of tyre removal tools with the wheel rim.