KR102606334B1 - Tire - Google Patents

Abstract

One embodiment of the present invention relates to a tire mounted on and used in a means of transportation, wherein the tread portion includes at least an area in contact with the road surface when the means of transportation is driven, and a side portion that includes an area adjacent to the tread portion and spaced apart from the road surface. A wall, one or more grooves formed in the tread portion to have a length in a direction intersecting the width direction of the tire, and a fluid disposed to be connected to the inner surface of at least one of the one or more grooves and formed to control the flow of fluid in the groove A tire including a flow control member is disclosed.

Description

Tire

Embodiments of the present invention relate to tires.

The means of transportation used by users, for example, vehicles, are made up of many parts, and among them, tires have a significant impact on the operation of the vehicle and can be said to be one of the key components for ensuring user safety.

In particular, due to the development of industry, the amount of automobile driving is increasing due to increased movement of logistics, increased personal workload, etc., and increased family life.

On the other hand, tires can maintain driving safety through friction with the road surface, but when driving is not controlled according to the driver's intention depending on the road surface condition, that is, when the tires are not controlled as desired on the road surface, the stability of the vehicle and the driver This can be a problem.

In addition, the drainage characteristics of tires may be problematic, such as when driving in rainy weather, which limits the improvement of driving stability and convenience.

Embodiments of the present invention provide a tire that can improve handling characteristics and driving safety by controlling water film generation in areas in contact with the road surface and smoothing drainage.

One embodiment of the present invention relates to a tire mounted on and used in a means of transportation, wherein the tread portion includes at least an area in contact with the road surface when the means of transportation is driven, and a side portion that includes an area adjacent to the tread portion and spaced apart from the road surface. A wall, one or more grooves formed in the tread portion to have a length in a direction intersecting the width direction of the tire, and a fluid disposed to be connected to the inner surface of at least one of the one or more grooves and formed to control the flow of fluid in the groove A tire including a flow control member is disclosed.

In this embodiment, the fluid flow control member may be formed to control the flow of fluid in the longitudinal direction of the groove.

In this embodiment, the fluid flow control members may include a plurality of arranged members.

In this embodiment, the grooves may be arranged in plural numbers, and the fluid flow control member may be arranged in plural numbers so as to be spaced apart from each other in one of the grooves.

In this embodiment, the grooves may be disposed in plural numbers, and the fluid flow control member may be disposed in at least two grooves among the plurality of grooves.

In this embodiment, the fluid flow control member may include one formed so that at least one area moves by an external force.

In this embodiment, the groove may be formed to have a length based on a direction intersecting the width direction of the tire.

In this embodiment, the groove may have a shape extending in the circumferential direction of the tire.

In this embodiment, the fluid flow control member may include one formed of a flexible material.

In this embodiment, the groove may include a bottom surface and an inner surface connected to the bottom surface, and the fluid flow control member may include one formed on the inner surface.

Other aspects, features and advantages in addition to those described above will become apparent from the following drawings, claims and detailed description of the invention.

Tires according to the present embodiments can improve handling characteristics and driving safety by controlling the generation of water films in areas in contact with the road surface and smoothing drainage.

1 is a front view schematically showing a tire according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a partial perspective view seen from one direction to explain the tire of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of Figures 1 and 2.
Figure 4 is a schematic enlarged view of K in Figure 3.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram viewed from the P direction of FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 is a diagram explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 5.
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a tire according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 is a schematic enlarged view of K in Figure 7.
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram viewed from the P direction of FIG. 8.
FIG. 10 is a diagram explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 9.
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a tire according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a schematic enlarged view of K in Figure 11.
FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram viewed from the P direction of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 is a diagram explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 13.
FIG. 15 is a plan view seen from the T direction of FIG. 11.
Figures 16 and 17 are diagrams showing a modified example of Figure 15.
Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a tire according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a tire according to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 20 is a schematic enlarged view of K in Figure 19.
FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram viewed from the P direction of FIG. 20.
FIG. 22 is a diagram explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 21.

Since the present invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments, specific embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention and methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described in detail below along with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various forms.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components will be assigned the same reference numerals and redundant description thereof will be omitted. .

In the following embodiments, terms such as first and second are used not in a limiting sense but for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component.

In the following examples, singular terms include plural terms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

In the following embodiments, terms such as include or have mean that the features or components described in the specification exist, and do not exclude in advance the possibility of adding one or more other features or components.

In the drawings, the sizes of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are shown arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown.

In the following embodiments, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are not limited to the three axes in the Cartesian coordinate system, but can be interpreted in a broad sense including these. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis may be orthogonal to each other, but may also refer to different directions that are not orthogonal to each other.

In cases where an embodiment can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed differently from the described sequence. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially at the same time, or may be performed in an order opposite to that in which they are described.

FIG. 1 is a front view schematically showing a tire according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view seen from one direction for explaining the tire of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a section Ⅲ- of FIGS. 1 and 2. This is a cross-sectional view cut along line III.

Figure 4 is a schematic enlarged view of K in Figure 3. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram viewed from the P direction of FIG. 4 , and FIG. 6 is a diagram explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 5 .

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6 , the tire 100 of this embodiment may include a tread portion 110, a sidewall 180, a groove 115, and a fluid flow control member 140.

Referring to FIG. 1, the tire 100 may have a shape extending in the traveling direction (RT) around the central axis (AX). Additionally, a wheel (not shown) may be coupled to the inside of the tire 100 in the radial direction (r) from the central axis (AX).

The tread portion 110 may include an area facing the road surface when the tire 100 is mounted on a means of transportation and driven. For example, the tread portion 110 may include an area that comes into contact with the road surface when the means of transportation is driven. The means of transportation may be a vehicle, or may include an airplane or other various means.

The tread portion 110 may be formed of various materials. For example, it can be manufactured by adding various additives to a rubber-based material base.

The groove 115 may be formed in one area of the tread portion 110. For example, it may have a shape such as a region removed from the tread portion 110 in the thickness direction of the tread portion 110.

The groove 115 may be formed to have a length in a direction intersecting the width direction of the tire 100 (for example, the Y-axis direction in FIGS. 2 and 3). As an optional embodiment, the groove 115 may have a length parallel to the circumferential direction of the tire 100. As a specific example, the groove 115 may have a shape extending long along the circumferential direction of the tire 100.

The tread portion 110 may have one or more patterns, and these patterns may be adjacent to one or more grooves 115. As an optional embodiment, the groove 115 may include a groove having a length that intersects or is perpendicular to the traveling direction (RT) of the tire 100.

The number and shape of the grooves 115 may be determined in various ways depending on the driving characteristics and purposes of the tire 100.

The sidewall 180 is connected to the tread portion 110. As an optional embodiment, the tire 100 may include a bead portion 190 for effective mounting on a wheel (not shown), and the sidewall 180 is between the tread portion 110 and the bead portion 190. can be placed.

The sidewall 180 may include an area spaced apart from the road surface when the tire 100 is mounted on the vehicle and the vehicle is driven. The tire 100 can flex and extend through the sidewall 180.

The sidewall 180 is formed on both sides of the tread portion 110 of the tire 100, and the material of the sidewall 180 on one side and the sidewall 180 on the other side may be the same.

As an optional embodiment, the materials of the sidewall 180 on one side and the sidewall 180 on the other side may be different.

As another optional embodiment, the modulus may be different by changing the composition of the sidewall 180 on one side and the sidewall 180 on the other side.

As an optional embodiment, the bead portion 190 may be formed in an area of the sidewall 180 opposite to the area connected to the tread portion 110.

The bead portion 190 may have various shapes and, for example, may be formed to include a core area and a buffer area.

The core area of the bead portion 190 may have a wire, for example, a wire bundle-shaped area in the form of a square or hexagonal steel wire coated with rubber.

The buffer area of the bead portion 190 is formed to surround the core area, and can distribute the load on the core area and relieve external shock.

Additionally, the tire 100 may include a body ply 130 at least in an area overlapping the tread portion 110.

The body ply 130 forms the main frame of the tire 100 and can support the load received by the tire 100 and absorb shock from the road surface. As an optional embodiment, the body ply 130 may include a cord type.

As an optional embodiment, the cap ply 120 may be disposed between the body ply 130 and the tread portion 110. The cap ply 120 may be formed of various materials and may have a plurality of cord shapes.

As an optional embodiment, the belt layer 170 may be further disposed between the cap ply 120 and the body ply 130. The belt layer 170 can alleviate the shock that the tire 100 receives from the road surface when a vehicle equipped with the tire 100 is driven and expand the contact surface of the tread portion 110 to improve grounding characteristics and driving stability. .

The belt layer 170 may be formed in various shapes, for example, may be formed of multiple layers.

As an optional embodiment, the inner liner 160 may be disposed inside the body ply 130. The inner liner 160 is disposed on the innermost side of the tire 100 to reduce or prevent air leakage.

The inner liner 160 may be formed of various materials and, for example, may contain a rubber-based material to adhere to an adjacent layer. Additionally, as an optional example, it may contain organic or inorganic substances.

The fluid flow control member 140 may be arranged to be connected to the inner surface of at least one of the one or more grooves 115.

The fluid flow control member 140 may be formed to control the flow of fluid in the groove 115. For example, the fluid flow control member 140 may be formed to control the flow of liquid, specifically water, in the space defined by the groove 115.

The fluid flow control member 140 may be formed on one of the inner surfaces of the groove 115.

For example, the groove 115 has a bottom surface 115C far from the upper open area along the thickness direction, and a first inner surface 115a and a second inner surface opposing each other with the bottom surface 115C interposed ( 115b) may be included.

The fluid flow control member 140 may be connected to one of the first inner surface 115a or the second inner surface 115b, for example, the first inner surface 115a, and as a specific example, the first inner surface 115a ) can be fixed. As an optional embodiment, the fluid flow control member 140 may be formed integrally with the first inner surface 115a and may be formed to protrude from the first inner surface 115a.

Additionally, the fluid flow control member 140 may have a shape separated from the second inner surface 115b. Additionally, the fluid flow control member 140 may have a length based on the width direction of the groove 115, for example, a direction from the first inner surface 115a to the second inner surface 115b. In alternative embodiments, the length of fluid flow control member 140 may be equal to or greater than the width of groove 115. Through this, at least one area of the fluid flow control member 140 may be connected to the second inner surface 115b at least at one point in time. Specific details about this will be described later.

The fluid flow control member 140 may extend deeply along the thickness direction of the groove 115. Additionally, the fluid flow control member 140 may have a shape distinct from the bottom surface 115c. For example, the lower surface of the fluid flow control member 140 may be formed in a shape separate from the bottom surface 115c. there is.

As a specific example, the lower surface of the fluid flow control member 140 may be spaced apart from the bottom surface 115c.

Additionally, as another example, the lower surface of the fluid flow control member 140 may be partially in contact with the bottom surface 115c while being separated from the bottom surface 115c.

Through this, the fluid flow control member 140 may be fixed only to the first inner surface 115a with respect to the groove 115.

And, as will be described later, at least one area may move along the longitudinal direction of the groove 115 while the fluid flow control member 140 is fixed to the first inner surface 115a.

The fluid flow control member 140 may have a shape extending along the thickness direction of the groove 115 toward the open area at the top. The fluid flow control member 140 may not reach the top of the groove 115 and may not be connected to the upper surface of the tread portion 110 through this.

The fluid flow control member 140 may be formed of various materials and, for example, may contain a flexible material. As a specific example, it may contain a rubber material.

As an optional embodiment, the fluid flow control member 140 may be formed of the same material as the tread portion 110, and as a specific example, may be formed simultaneously with the tread portion 110 and the groove 115 during the manufacturing process.

Through this material, the fluid flow control member 140 can move at least one area in the longitudinal direction of the groove 115, thereby controlling the flow of fluid, for example, water inside the groove 115 to drain the fluid. The characteristics and handling characteristics of a vehicle equipped with the tire 100 can be improved.

As a specific example, handling characteristics can be improved when the tire 100 passes through a rainy road or a puddle or other watery environment.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram viewed from the P direction of FIG. 4 , and FIG. 6 is a diagram explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 5 .

First, referring to FIG. 5, when the tire 100 moves in the main traveling direction (RT) through the traveling means, for example, the traveling direction (RT) during forward driving, fluid such as water inside the groove 115 The flow direction (WT) of the fluid moves in the opposite direction to the traveling direction (RT), and the flow direction (WT) of this fluid is limited by the fluid flow control member 140, and accordingly, as shown in FIG. 5, a kind of barrier and It can be of the same form. Through this, at least part of the fluid can be trapped in one area of the groove 115 during acceleration movement such as forward travel of the moving means (RT) of the tire 100 while the moving means equipped with the tire 100 is traveling. Accordingly, the retention of water in the contact area of the adjacent tire 100, for example, in one area of the tread portion 110, can be reduced, thereby reducing or limiting water film formation, thereby improving driving handling characteristics. .

And, as shown in FIG. 6, when the moving means equipped with the tire 100 stops, the fluid flow direction WT is formed as shown in FIG. 6 due to inertia, and one side of the fluid flow control member 140, that is, the second inner surface ( The area that is not fixed in 115b) is pushed in the same direction by inertia and fluid flow, forming a passage area (PW), and the fluid flow direction (WT) is connected through the passage area (PW), allowing fluid such as water to flow. Can be drained easily.

Additionally, the fluid flow control member 140 may be formed of a flexible material, and thus the movement process for connecting or separating one region from the second inner surface 115b can be easily performed.

As an optional embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, one area of the fluid flow control member 140 is fixed to the first inner surface 115a and the other area of the groove 115 is positioned toward the second inner surface 115b. It may have an inclined shape along the length direction. For example, when one area of the fluid flow control member 140 protrudes from the first inner surface 115a toward the second inner surface 115b and has a length, the main driving direction (same as the forward direction of the tire 100) It can be formed to be inclined along RT).

Through this, when the tire 100 moves forward in the traveling direction (RT) as shown in FIG. 5, the fluid inside the groove 115 moves in the opposite direction of the traveling direction (RT) and flows into one area of the fluid flow control member 140. Force is applied to push one area including the end of the fluid flow control member 140 to connect to the second inner surface 115b, whereby the fluid flow control member 140 has a barrier-like shape that restricts at least a portion of the fluid. You can have In addition, when the tire 100 as shown in FIG. 6 is braked, an area of the fluid flow control member 140 that was connected to the second inner surface 115b due to inertia moves rapidly in the traveling direction (RT) before braking, causing the second It may be spaced apart from the inner surface 115b and form a passage area (PW).

As an optional embodiment, when there is no influence of fluid or the like during stopping and no external force is received, the fluid flow control member 140 of the tire 100 may have the shape as shown in FIG. 6, for example, the inner surface of the groove 115. It may be fixed to one side of the center and not fixed to the opposite side but spaced apart.

The tire of this embodiment may have a fluid flow control member formed in at least one area of the groove. This fluid flow control member may be fixed and connected to one side of the inner surface of the groove, and the other end may not be fixed to the inner surface of the groove. Through this, when receiving force from a surrounding external force, for example, an external force through the running of a tire or a fluid flow inside the groove, the area of the fluid flow control member that is not fixed to the inner surface of the groove can move. For example, if the fluid flow control member is made of a flexible material, this movement can be performed more easily.

Through the movement of these fluid flow control members, when all the fluid flow control members are connected to the inner surfaces of the grooves facing each other, it can serve as a kind of barrier function to restrict the flow of fluid in one area of the space inside the groove, for example. When driving in the main direction of acceleration, such as forward movement of the vehicle, fluids such as water are easily trapped and the remaining water or moisture on the tread surface of the tire in contact with the road surface is reduced, thereby reducing the occurrence of aquaplaning and improving driving safety and handling characteristics. can do.

In addition, when a vehicle equipped with a tire is braked, the fluid receives a force due to inertia, and along with this, the fluid flow control member also receives a force, so that one area of the fluid flow control member connected to one side of the inner surface of the groove moves, thereby forming the groove. By being spaced apart from one side, a passage area can be formed to facilitate fluid drainage.

Through this, the braking performance of the means of transportation can be smoothly improved.

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a tire according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 8 is a schematic diagram enlarging K of Figure 7. FIG. 9 is a schematic view viewed from the P direction of FIG. 8, and FIG. 10 is a view explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 9.

Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10 , the tire 200 of this embodiment may include a tread portion 210, a sidewall 280, a groove 215, and a fluid flow control member 240.

For convenience of explanation, the description will focus on differences from the above-described embodiment.

The tread portion 210 may include an area facing the road surface when the tire 200 is mounted on a means of transportation and driven. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

The groove 215 may be formed in one area of the tread portion 210. For example, it may have a shape such as a region removed from the tread portion 210 in the thickness direction of the tread portion 210. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

The sidewall 280 is connected to the tread portion 210. As an optional embodiment, the tire 200 may include a bead portion 290 for effective mounting on a wheel (not shown), and the sidewall 280 is provided between the tread portion 210 and the bead portion 290. can be placed. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

As an optional embodiment, the bead portion 290 may be formed in an area of the sidewall 280 opposite to the area connected to the tread portion 210.

Additionally, the tire 200 may include a body ply 230 at least in an area overlapping the tread portion 210. As an optional embodiment, the cap ply 220 may be disposed between the body ply 230 and the tread portion 210.

Additionally, as an optional embodiment, the belt layer 270 may be further disposed between the cap ply 220 and the body ply 230.

As an optional embodiment, the inner liner 260 may be disposed inside the body ply 230.

The fluid flow control member 240 may be arranged to be connected to the inner surface of at least one of the one or more grooves 215.

The fluid flow control member 240 may be formed to control the flow of fluid in the groove 215. For example, the fluid flow control member 240 may be formed to control the flow of liquid, specifically water, in the space defined by the groove 215.

The fluid flow control member 240 may be formed on one of the inner surfaces of the groove 215.

For example, the groove 215 has a bottom surface 215C far away from the upper open area along the thickness direction, and a first inner surface 215a and a second inner surface opposing each other with the bottom surface 215C interposed ( 215b) may be included.

The fluid flow control member 240 may be connected to one of the first inner surface 215a or the second inner surface 215b, for example, the first inner surface 215a, and as a specific example, the first inner surface 215a ) can be fixed. As an optional embodiment, the fluid flow control member 240 may be formed integrally with the first inner surface 215a and protrude from the first inner surface 215a.

Additionally, the fluid flow control member 240 may have a shape separated from the second inner surface 215b. Additionally, the fluid flow control member 240 may have a length based on the width direction of the groove 215, for example, a direction from the first inner surface 215a to the second inner surface 215b. In an alternative embodiment, the length of fluid flow control member 240 may be greater than the width of groove 215. Through this, at least one area of the fluid flow control member 240 may be connected to the second inner surface 215b at least at one point in time, for example, toward the second inner surface 215b from the first inner surface 215a. It may be connected to have an inclined shape with the longitudinal direction of the groove 215. Specific details about this will be described later.

The fluid flow control member 240 may extend deeply along the thickness direction of the groove 215. Additionally, the fluid flow control member 240 may have a shape distinct from the bottom surface 215c. For example, the lower surface of the fluid flow control member 240 may be formed in a shape separate from the bottom surface 215c. there is.

Through this, the fluid flow control member 240 may be fixed only to the first inner surface 215a with respect to the groove 215.

And, as will be described later, at least one region may move along the longitudinal direction of the groove 215 while the fluid flow control member 240 is fixed to the first inner surface 215a.

The fluid flow control member 240 may have a shape extending along the thickness direction of the groove 215 toward the open area at the top. The fluid flow control member 240 may not reach the top of the groove 215 and may not be connected to the upper surface of the tread portion 210 through this.

The fluid flow control member 240 may be formed from a variety of materials and, for example, may contain a flexible material. As a specific example, it may contain a rubber material.

As an optional embodiment, the fluid flow control member 240 may be formed of the same material as the tread portion 210, and as a specific example, may be formed simultaneously with the tread portion 210 and the groove 215 during the manufacturing process.

Through this material, the fluid flow control member 240 can move at least one area in the longitudinal direction of the groove 215, thereby controlling the flow of fluid, for example, water inside the groove 215, to drain the fluid. The characteristics and handling characteristics of a vehicle equipped with the tire 200 can be improved.

As a specific example, handling characteristics can be improved when the tire 200 passes through a rainy road or a puddle or other watery environment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view viewed from the P direction of FIG. 8, and FIG. 10 is a view explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 9.

First, referring to FIG. 9, when the tire 200 moves in the main traveling direction (RT) of the vehicle, for example, in the forward traveling direction (RT), fluid such as water inside the groove 215 The flow direction (WT) of the fluid moves in the opposite direction to the traveling direction (RT), and the flow direction (WT) of this fluid is limited by the fluid flow control member 240, and accordingly, as shown in FIG. 9, a kind of barrier and It can be of the same form. Through this, at least part of the fluid can be trapped in one area of the groove 215 during acceleration movement, such as in the traveling direction (RT) of the tire 200, that is, forward travel of the moving vehicle, while the vehicle equipped with the tire 200 is traveling. Accordingly, the retention of water in the contact area of the adjacent tire 200, for example, in one area of the tread portion 210, can be reduced, thereby reducing or limiting water film formation, thereby improving driving handling characteristics. .

And, as shown in FIG. 10, when the moving means equipped with the tire 200 stops, the fluid flow direction (WT) is formed as shown in FIG. 10 due to inertia, and accordingly, one side, that is, the second inner surface, of the fluid flow control member 240 The area that is not fixed to (215b) is also pushed in the same direction by inertia and fluid flow, forming a passage area (PW), and the fluid flow direction (WT) is connected through the passage area (PW), forming a fluid such as water. can be easily drained.

Additionally, the fluid flow control member 240 may be formed of a flexible material, and thus the movement process for connecting or separating one area from the inner surface 215b can be easily performed.

As an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, one area of the fluid flow control member 240 is fixed to the first inner surface 215a and the other area of the groove 215 is positioned toward the second inner surface 215b. It may have an inclined shape along the length direction. For example, when one area of the fluid flow control member 240 protrudes from the first inner surface 215a toward the second inner surface 215b and has a length, the main driving direction (same as the forward direction of the tire 200) It can be formed to be inclined along RT).

Through this, when the tire 200 moves forward in the traveling direction (RT) as shown in FIG. 9, fluid moves in the opposite direction of the traveling direction (RT) inside the groove 215 and flows into one area of the fluid flow control member 240. Force is applied to push one area including the end of the fluid flow control member 240 to connect to the second inner surface 215b, whereby the fluid flow control member 240 has a barrier-like shape that restricts at least a portion of the fluid. You can have In addition, when the tire 200 as shown in FIG. 10 is braked, an area of the fluid flow control member 240 that was connected to the second inner surface 215b due to inertia moves rapidly in the traveling direction (RT) before braking, causing the second It may be spaced apart from the inner surface 215b and form a passage area (PW).

As an optional embodiment, when there is no influence of fluid or the like during a stop and no external force is received, the fluid flow control member 240 of the tire 200 may have a shape as shown in FIG. 10, for example, the inner surface of the groove 215. It may be fixed to one side of the center and not fixed to the opposite side but spaced apart.

The fluid flow control member of this embodiment may have a length greater than the width of the groove, and thus is efficiently connected to both sides of the inner surface of the groove when the means of transportation is running, effectively performing a barrier function to limit the flow of fluid. It can be done. For example, when implementing the barrier function, the groove can be connected in an inclined form in the width direction, and as a specific example, the inclined form can be easily formed along the main acceleration direction of the means of transportation to efficiently restrict fluid in one direction. there is.

In addition, even when the moving means is braked, one side of the groove can easily move due to inertia, for example, moving downward based on FIG. 9 or 10, so that a passage area can be easily formed and drainage performance can be improved.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a tire according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a schematic enlarged view of K in FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a schematic view viewed from the P direction of FIG. 12, and FIG. 14 is a view explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 13.

Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14 , the tire 300 of this embodiment may include a tread portion 310, a sidewall 380, a groove 315, and a fluid flow control member 340.

For convenience of explanation, the description will focus on differences from the above-described embodiment.

The tread portion 310 may include an area facing the road surface when the tire 300 is mounted on a means of transportation and driven. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

The groove 315 may be formed in one area of the tread portion 310. For example, it may have a shape such as a region removed from the tread portion 310 in the thickness direction of the tread portion 310. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

The sidewall 380 is connected to the tread portion 310. As an optional embodiment, the tire 300 may include a bead portion 390 for effective mounting on a wheel (not shown), and the sidewall 380 is provided between the tread portion 310 and the bead portion 390. can be placed. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

As an optional embodiment, the bead portion 390 may be formed in an area of the sidewall 380 opposite to the area connected to the tread portion 310.

Additionally, the tire 300 may include a body ply 330 at least in an area overlapping the tread portion 310. As an optional embodiment, the cap ply 320 may be disposed between the body ply 330 and the tread portion 310.

Additionally, as an optional embodiment, the belt layer 370 may be further disposed between the cap ply 320 and the body ply 330.

As an optional embodiment, the inner liner 360 may be disposed inside the body ply 330.

The fluid flow control member 340 may be arranged to be connected to the inner surface of at least one of the one or more grooves 315.

The fluid flow control member 340 may be formed to control the flow of fluid in the groove 315. For example, the fluid flow control member 340 may be formed to control the flow of liquid, specifically water, in the space defined by the groove 315.

The fluid flow control member 340 may be formed on one of the inner surfaces of the groove 315.

For example, the groove 315 has a bottom surface 315C far from the upper open area along the thickness direction, and a first inner surface 315a and a second inner surface opposing each other with the bottom surface 315C interposed ( 315b) may be included.

The fluid flow control member 340 may be connected to either the first inner surface 315a or the second inner surface 315b, for example, the first inner surface 315a, and as a specific example, the first inner surface 315a ) can be fixed. As an optional embodiment, the fluid flow control member 340 may be formed integrally with the first inner surface 315a and protrude from the first inner surface 315a.

Additionally, the fluid flow control member 340 may have a shape separated from the second inner surface 315b. Additionally, the fluid flow control member 340 may have a length based on the width direction of the groove 315, for example, a direction from the first inner surface 315a to the second inner surface 315b. In an alternative embodiment, the length of fluid flow control member 340 may be greater than the width of groove 315. Through this, at least one region of the fluid flow control member 340 may be connected to the second inner surface 315b at least at one point in time, for example, facing from the first inner surface 315a toward the second inner surface 315b. It may be connected to have an inclined shape with the longitudinal direction of the groove 315. Specific details about this will be described later.

The fluid flow control member 340 may have a thickness, and the thickness values of at least two different regions may be different.

For example, the first thickness TH1 of the area of the fluid flow control member 340 adjacent to the first inner surface 315a is greater than the second thickness TH2 of the area adjacent to the second inner surface 315b. It can have a value.

As an optional embodiment, the fluid flow control member 240 may include at least one region whose value gradually decreases from the first thickness TH1 to the second thickness TH2. Through this, the area having the second thickness TH2 can easily move, and accordingly, the movement of FIGS. 13 and 14 connected to or spaced from the second inner surface 315b, which will be described later, can proceed efficiently.

In an optional embodiment, fluid flow control member 240 may be curved. For example, it may have a curved shape that protrudes from the first inner surface 315a toward the second inner surface 315b. Through this shape, the area having the second thickness TH2 can easily move, and accordingly, the movement of FIGS. 13 and 14, which will be described later, connected to or spaced from the second inner surface 315b can be carried out efficiently. .

The fluid flow control member 340 may extend deeply along the thickness direction of the groove 315. Additionally, the fluid flow control member 340 may have a shape distinct from the bottom surface 315c. For example, the lower surface of the fluid flow control member 340 may be formed in a shape separate from the bottom surface 315c. there is.

Through this, the fluid flow control member 340 may be fixed only to the first inner surface 315a with respect to the groove 315.

And, as will be described later, at least one region may move along the longitudinal direction of the groove 315 while the fluid flow control member 340 is fixed to the first inner surface 315a.

The fluid flow control member 340 may have a shape extending along the thickness direction of the groove 315 toward the open area at the top. The fluid flow control member 340 may not reach the top of the groove 315 and may not be connected to the upper surface of the tread portion 310 through this.

The fluid flow control member 340 may be formed from a variety of materials and, for example, may contain a flexible material. As a specific example, it may contain a rubber material.

As an optional embodiment, the fluid flow control member 340 may be formed of the same material as the tread portion 310, and as a specific example, may be formed simultaneously with the tread portion 310 and the groove 315 during the manufacturing process.

Through this material, the fluid flow control member 340 can move at least one area in the longitudinal direction of the groove 315, thereby controlling the flow of fluid, for example, water inside the groove 315 to drain the fluid. The characteristics and handling characteristics of a vehicle equipped with the tire 300 can be improved.

As a specific example, handling characteristics can be improved when the tire 300 passes through a rainy road or a puddle or other watery environment.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view viewed from the P direction of FIG. 12, and FIG. 14 is a view explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 13.

First, referring to FIG. 13, when the tire 300 moves in the main traveling direction (RT) of the moving means, for example, the traveling direction (RT) during forward travel, fluid such as water inside the groove 315 The flow direction (WT) of the fluid moves in the opposite direction to the traveling direction (RT), and the flow direction (WT) of this fluid is limited by the fluid flow control member 340, and accordingly, as shown in FIG. 13, a kind of barrier and It can be of the same form. Through this, it is possible to trap at least a portion of the fluid in one area of the groove 315 during acceleration movement, such as in the traveling direction (RT) of the tire 300, that is, forward travel of the moving vehicle, while the vehicle equipped with the tire 300 is traveling. Accordingly, the retention of water in the contact area of the adjacent tire 300, for example, in one area of the tread portion 310, can be reduced to reduce or limit water film formation, thereby improving driving handling characteristics. . At this time, the second thickness TH2 in the area of the fluid flow control member 340 is formed to have a smaller value than the first thickness TH1, so that the barrier shape can be easily formed with easy movement ability. In addition, the fluid flow control member 340 may include a curved surface that protrudes in a direction from the first inner surface 315a to the second inner surface 315b, thereby effectively trapping the fluid. can improve the efficiency of the barrier function.

And, as shown in FIG. 14, when the moving means equipped with the tire 300 stops, the fluid flow direction (WT) is formed as shown in FIG. 14 due to inertia, and accordingly, one side, that is, the second inner surface, of the fluid flow control member 340 The area that is not fixed to (315b) is also pushed in the same direction by inertia and fluid flow, forming a passage area (PW), and the fluid flow direction (WT) is connected through the passage area (PW), forming a fluid such as water. can be easily drained.

Additionally, the fluid flow control member 340 may be formed of a flexible material, and thus the movement process for connecting or separating one region from the second inner surface 315b can be easily performed.

In addition, the fluid flow control member 340 may include a curved surface that protrudes in a direction from the first inner surface 315a toward the second inner surface 315b, and through this curved surface, FIG. 14 Efficiency can be improved when draining through the fluid flow direction (WT) through the passage area (PW).

As an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, one area of the fluid flow control member 340 is fixed to the first inner surface 315a and the other area of the groove 315 is positioned toward the second inner surface 315b. It may have an inclined shape along the length direction. For example, when one area of the fluid flow control member 340 protrudes from the first inner surface 315a toward the second inner surface 315b and has a length, the main driving direction (same as the forward direction of the tire 300) It can be formed to be inclined along RT).

Through this, when the tire 300 moves forward in the traveling direction (RT) as shown in FIG. 13, the fluid inside the groove 315 moves in the opposite direction of the traveling direction (RT) and the fluid flow control member 340 A barrier is connected to the second inner surface 315b by applying force to one area to push one area including the end of the fluid flow control member 340, whereby the fluid flow control member 340 restricts at least a portion of the fluid. It may have a similar form. In addition, when the tire 300 as shown in FIG. 14 is braked, an area of the fluid flow control member 340 that was connected to the second inner surface 315b due to inertia moves rapidly in the traveling direction (RT) before braking, causing the second It may be spaced apart from the inner surface 315b and form a passage area (PW).

As an optional embodiment, when there is no influence of fluid or the like during a stop and no external force is received, the fluid flow control member 340 of the tire 300 may have a shape as shown in FIG. 14, for example, the inner surface of the groove 315. It may be fixed to one side of the center and not fixed to the opposite side but spaced apart.

FIG. 15 is a plan view seen from the T direction of FIG. 11.

Referring to FIG. 15, as an optional embodiment, a plurality of fluid flow control members 340 (e.g., two or more) may be arranged, for example, a plurality of fluid flow control members 340 may be spaced apart from each other in one groove 315. A flow control member 340 may be disposed. Through this, the effect of increasing the barrier or drainage performance efficiency of fluid such as water in the area adjacent to each of the plurality of fluid flow control members 340 or in the area between them can be increased.

Figures 16 and 17 are diagrams showing a modified example of Figure 15.

Referring to FIG. 16, a plurality of fluid flow control members 340" of the tire 300" may be arranged, for example, a plurality of fluid flow control members 340 in each of a plurality of different grooves 315'. ') can be placed.

Referring to FIG. 17, the fluid flow control members 340" of the tire 300" may be arranged in plural numbers, for example, a plurality of fluid flow control members 340" in each of a plurality of different grooves 315", and a plurality of fluid flow control members 340" spaced apart from each other. Two fluid flow control members 340" may be disposed.

The number of fluid flow control members 340, 340', and 340" shown in FIGS. 15 to 17 is exemplary, and a plurality of various fluid flow control members 340, 340', and 340" can be set depending on design conditions.

The structures of FIGS. 15 to 17 may be selectively applied to the above-described embodiments or to the embodiments described later.

Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a tire according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The tire 400 of this embodiment may include a tread portion 410, a sidewall (not shown), a groove 415, and a fluid flow control member 440.

For convenience of explanation, the description will focus on differences from the above-described embodiment.

The fluid flow control member 440 disposed in the groove 415 may have a shape extending along the thickness direction of the groove 415 toward the upper open area. The fluid flow control member 440 may be formed high enough to reach the top of the groove 415 and may be connected to the upper surface of the tread portion 410 through this.

As an optional embodiment, the structure of FIG. 18 may be selectively applied to the above-described embodiments or to the embodiments to be described later, if necessary.

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a tire according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 20 is a schematic enlarged view of K in Figure 19.

FIG. 21 is a schematic view viewed from the P direction of FIG. 20, and FIG. 22 is a view explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 21.

19 to 22, the tire 500 of this embodiment may include a tread portion 510, a sidewall 580, a groove 515, and a fluid flow control member 540.

For convenience of explanation, the description will focus on differences from the above-described embodiment.

The tread portion 510 may include an area facing the road surface when the tire 500 is mounted on a means of transportation and driven. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

The groove 515 may be formed in one area of the tread portion 510. For example, it may have a shape such as a region removed from the tread portion 510 in the thickness direction of the tread portion 510. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

The sidewall 580 is connected to the tread portion 510. As an optional embodiment, the tire 500 may include a bead portion 590 for effective mounting on a wheel (not shown), and the sidewall 580 may be provided between the tread portion 510 and the bead portion 590. can be placed. More specific details are omitted since they can be modified and applied in the same or similar range as described in the above-described embodiment.

As an optional embodiment, the bead portion 590 may be formed in an area of the sidewall 580 opposite to the area connected to the tread portion 510.

Additionally, the tire 500 may include a body ply 530 at least in an area overlapping the tread portion 510. As an optional embodiment, the cap ply 520 may be disposed between the body ply 530 and the tread portion 510.

Additionally, as an optional embodiment, the belt layer 570 may be further disposed between the cap ply 520 and the body ply 530.

As an optional embodiment, the inner liner 560 may be disposed inside the body ply 530.

The fluid flow control member 540 may be disposed to be connected to the inner surface of at least one of the one or more grooves 515.

The fluid flow control member 540 may be formed to control the flow of fluid in the groove 515 . For example, the fluid flow control member 540 may be formed to control the flow of liquid, specifically water, in the space defined by the groove 515.

The fluid flow control member 540 may include at least two members, for example, a first control member 541 and a second control member 542.

The first control member 541 and the second control member 542 may be formed on different inner surfaces of the groove 515, for example, the first control member 541 and the second control member 542 ) may be formed on the first inner surface 515a and the second inner surface 515b, respectively.

The first control member 541 and the second control member 542 may be arranged to correspond to each other, for example, to overlap each other. As a specific example, it can be formed to be connected by touching at least at a certain point in time.

The first control member 541 and the second control member 542 of the fluid flow control member 540 may have a thickness, and the thickness values of at least two different regions may be different, and regions that are far apart from each other may have different thicknesses. The thickness of may be greater than the thickness of adjacent areas.

Each thickness of the first control member 541 and the second control member 542 may be similar to the description of the thickness of the fluid flow control member 340 described above.

As an optional embodiment, each of the first control member 541 and the second control member 542 of the fluid flow control member 540 may have a curve. For example, each of the first control member 541 and the second control member 542 may have a curved shape that protrudes in a direction toward each other.

Each of the first control member 541 and the second control member 542 of the fluid flow control member 540 may extend deeply along the thickness direction of the groove 515. Additionally, the fluid flow control member 540 may have a shape distinct from the bottom surface 515c. For example, the lower surface of the fluid flow control member 540 may be formed in a shape separate from the bottom surface 515c. there is.

FIG. 21 is a schematic view viewed from the P direction of FIG. 20, and FIG. 22 is a view explaining the movement of the fluid flow control member of FIG. 21.

First, referring to FIG. 21, when the tire 500 moves in the main traveling direction (RT) through the traveling means, for example, the traveling direction (RT) during forward driving, fluid such as water inside the groove 515 The flow direction (WT) of the fluid moves in the opposite direction to the traveling direction (RT), and the flow direction (WT) of this fluid is connected to the first control member 541 and the second control member 542 of the fluid flow control member 540. It is limited, and accordingly, it can take the form of a kind of barrier as shown in FIG. 21. Through this, at least part of the fluid can be trapped in one area of the groove 515 during acceleration movement, such as in the traveling direction (RT) of the tire 500, that is, forward travel of the moving vehicle, while the vehicle equipped with the tire 500 is traveling. Accordingly, the retention of water in the contact area of the adjacent tire 500, for example, in one area of the tread portion 510, can be reduced, thereby reducing or limiting water film formation, thereby improving driving handling characteristics. . In addition, the first control member 541 and the second control member 542 of the fluid flow control member 540 may act as a barrier while contacting each other, so that the first control member 541 and the second control member 542 They can be effectively connected to each other without increasing the length of each, creating a barrier-like effect.

And, as shown in FIG. 22, when the moving means equipped with the tire 500 stops, the fluid flow direction (WT) is formed as shown in FIG. 22 due to inertia, and accordingly, the first control member 541 of the fluid flow control member 540 And each side of the second control member 542, that is, the area that is not fixed to the inner surface of the groove 515, is pushed in the same direction by inertia and fluid flow to form a passage area (PW), and the passage area As the fluid flow direction (WT) is connected through (PW), fluid such as water can be easily drained.

The fluid flow control member of this embodiment may include a first control member and a second control member disposed on each of the opposing inner surfaces of the groove. As an optional embodiment, the first control member and the second control member may each have an inclined shape in the groove length direction, and as another optional embodiment, they may have curved surfaces that are convex in opposite directions.

Through this, when the moving means accelerates or stops, the first control member and the second control member can move easily and smoothly by external force, for example, acceleration of the moving means and the resulting inertia or force through the flow of fluid. . As a result, the barrier effect that traps water in the space inside the middle groove and the water drainage effect when stopped can be easily increased.

As such, the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings, but these are merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible therefrom. . Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the attached patent claims.

Specific implementations described in the embodiments are examples and do not limit the scope of the embodiments in any way. Additionally, if there is no specific mention such as “essential,” “important,” etc., it may not be a necessary component for the application of the present invention.

In the specification of the embodiment (particularly in the claims), the use of the term “above” and similar referential terms may refer to both the singular and the plural. In addition, when a range is described in an example, the invention includes the application of individual values within the range (unless there is a statement to the contrary), and is the same as describing each individual value constituting the range in the detailed description. . Lastly, unless the order of the steps constituting the method according to the embodiment is clearly stated or there is no description to the contrary, the steps may be performed in an appropriate order. The embodiments are not necessarily limited by the order of description of the steps above. The use of any examples or illustrative terms (e.g., etc.) in the embodiments is merely for describing the embodiments in detail, and unless limited by the claims, the scope of the embodiments is not limited by the examples or illustrative terms. That is not the case. Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, combinations and changes may be made according to design conditions and factors within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

100, 200, 300, 400, 500: Tires
110, 210, 310, 410, 510: Tread part
140, 240, 340, 440, 540: No fluid flow control

Claims (10)

Pertaining to tires mounted and used on means of transportation,
A tread portion including at least an area in contact with the road surface when the means of transportation is driven;
a sidewall adjacent to the tread portion and including an area spaced apart from the road surface;
One or more grooves formed in the tread portion to have a length in a direction intersecting the width direction of the tire; and
A fluid flow control member disposed to be connected to an inner surface of at least one of the one or more grooves and configured to control the flow of fluid in the groove,
The fluid flow control member is connected to one of the two inner surfaces corresponding to the width of the groove and is formed to have a length spaced apart from the other, and the fluid flow control member has a length greater than the width of the groove. Including one formed to be inclined along the traveling direction of the moving means with respect to the width direction of the groove,
tire. According to claim 1,
wherein the fluid flow control member is formed to control the flow of fluid in the longitudinal direction of the groove. According to claim 1,
A tire, wherein the fluid flow control members are arranged in plural numbers. According to claim 1,
The grooves are arranged in plural numbers,
A tire comprising a plurality of fluid flow control members arranged in one of the grooves to be spaced apart from each other. According to claim 1,
The grooves are arranged in plural numbers,
A tire, wherein the fluid flow control member is each disposed in at least two grooves of the plurality of grooves. According to claim 1,
A tire, wherein the fluid flow control member is formed so that at least one area moves by an external force. According to claim 1,
A tire, wherein the groove is formed to have a length based on a direction intersecting the width direction of the tire. According to claim 1,
A tire, wherein the groove has a shape extending in a circumferential direction of the tire. According to claim 1,
A tire, wherein the fluid flow control member is formed of a flexible material. According to claim 1,
The groove includes a bottom surface and an inner surface connected to the bottom surface, and the fluid flow control member is formed on the inner surface.

Images