WO2020068051A1

WO2020068051A1 - Non-pneumatic tire spoke for improved overdeflection accomodation

Info

Publication number: WO2020068051A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/052657
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kevin Corbett MILES; Steven M Cron
Original assignee: Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin
Priority date: 2018-09-25
Filing date: 2018-09-25
Publication date: 2020-04-02

Abstract

A spoke (100) for a wheel (10) attaching an outer tread (200) to a hub (12), the spoke (100) having a first and second spoke elements (140) joined by a joint body (130) comprised of an elastomer connecting the first spoke element to a second spoke element where the joint body (130) possesses a cross sectional area, taken parallel to the equatorial plane of the tire, that is smaller nearer the lateral edges of the spoke.

Description

NON-PNEUMATIC TIRE SPOKE FOR IMPROVED OVERDEFLECTION

ACCOMODATION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The subject matter of the present invention relates to a support structure for a tire.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0003] At least one embodiment discloses an improved spoke for a non-pneumatic tire made from an elastomer material. The spoke connects an outer tread band to a hub. The spoke extends laterally across the tire. The elastomer material forms a joint body to which a first spoke element and a second spoke element attach. Each spoke element has a reinforcement having a flexural rigidity greater than that of the elastomer material forming the joint body. The joint body positions the first spoke element and the second spoke element so that they form an angle relative to one another of less than 180 degrees on the side of the spoke elements to which the joint body is positioned. The joint body extends laterally across the spoke. The cross sectional area of the joint body, taken in a plane that is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the tire, increases as the plane moves from the lateral edge of the spoke toward the center portion of the spoke. In this embodiment, once the plane is in the center portion of the spoke the cross sectional area of the joint body remains the same until nears the opposite lateral edge at which point the cross sectional area decreases as the plane approaches the opposite lateral edge of the spoke.

[0004] In at least one embodiment, the cross sectional area of the joint body is decreased proximal to the lateral edges of the spoke by a plurality of apertures formed in the joint body.

[0005] At least one embodiment according to the preceding paragraph wherein the elastomer is an elastomeric rubber.

[0006] At least one embodiment according to any of the two preceding paragraphs wherein reinforcement is composite such as a glass fiber reinforced resin. [0007] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0009] FIG. 1 provides a lateral side view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein a plurality of spokes form a part of a tire under nominal loading conditions.

[0010] FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with portions removed to show the embodiment’ s components including location and orientation of the reinforcement.

[0011] FIG. 3 shows an equatorial section view taken across the equatorial plane of the exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0012] FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of the concave side of an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0013] FIG. 5 provides a lateral side view of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4 having a curved profile groove depression adjacent to the lateral edge of the spoke.

[0014] FIG. 6 provides an elevation view of the concave side of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

[0015] FIG. 7 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 7-7 in FIG. 6.

[0016] FIG. 8 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 8-8 in FIG. 6.

[0017] FIG. 9 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 9-9 in FIG. 6.

[0018] FIG. 10 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 10-10 in

FIG. 6.

[0019] FIG. 11 provides a lateral side view of another exemplary embodiment having a triangular profile groove depression adjacent to the lateral edge of the spoke.

[0020] FIG. 12 shows an elevation view of the concave side of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 11. [0021] FIG. 13 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 13-13 in FIG. 12.

[0022] FIG. 14 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 14-14 in FIG. 12.

[0023] FIG. 15 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 15-15 in FIG. 12.

[0024] FIG. 16 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 16-16 in FIG. 12.

[0025] FIG. 17 provides a lateral side view of another exemplary embodiment having at least one cylindrical aperture formed into the elastomeric joint body adjacent to the lateral edge of the spoke.

[0026] FIG. 18 shows an elevation view of the concave side of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 17.

[0027] FIG. 19 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 19-19 in FIG. 18.

[0028] FIG. 20 provides a section view through the midline of an aperture of the embodiment taken on line 20-20 in FIG. 18.

[0029] FIG. 21 provides a lateral side view of another exemplary embodiment having at least one aperture formed into the elastomeric joint body adjacent to the lateral edge of the spoke.

[0030] FIG. 22 shows an elevation view of the concave side of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 21.

[0031] FIG. 23 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 23-23 in FIG. 22.

[0032] FIG. 24 provides a section view through the midline of an aperture of the embodiment taken on line 24-24 in FIG. 22.

[0033] FIG. 25 provides a lateral side view of another exemplary embodiment having at least one irregular aperture formed into the elastomeric joint body adjacent to the lateral edge of the spoke.

[0034] FIG. 26 shows an elevation view of the concave side of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 25.

[0035] FIG. 27 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 27-27 in FIG. 26. [0036] FIG. 28 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 28-28 in FIG. 26.

[0037] FIG. 29 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 29-29 in FIG. 26.

[0038] FIG. 30 shows a prior art spoke design having a constant profile elastomeric joint body on a non-pneumatic tire which is loaded across an angled cleat, the figure showing the formation of a sharp angle above the joint body inducing reinforcement breakage.

[0039] FIG. 31 shows an embodiment of the inventive spoke having a variable profile elastomeric joint body on a non-pneumatic tire which is loaded across an angled cleat, the figure showing a shallow angle above the joint body resulting in eliminating or reducing the incidence of breakage.

[0040] The use of identical or similar reference numerals in different figures denotes identical or similar features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] The present invention provides an improved mechanical structure for resiliently supporting a load. For purposes of describing the invention, reference now will be made in detail to embodiments and/or methods of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in or with the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features or steps illustrated or described as part of one embodiment, can be used with another embodiment or steps to yield a still further embodiments or methods. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0042] The following terms are defined as follows for this disclosure:

[0043] “Axial direction” or the letter“A” in the figures refers to a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of for example, the shear band, tire, and/or wheel as it travels along a road surface.

[0044] “Radial direction” or the letter“R” in the figures refers to a direction that is orthogonal to the axial direction and extends in the same direction as any radius that extends orthogonally from the axial direction. [0045] "Equatorial plane" means a plane that passes perpendicular to the axis of rotation and bisects the outer tread band and/or wheel structure.

[0046] “Circumferential direction” or the letter“C” in the figures refers to a direction is orthogonal to the axial direction and orthogonal to a radial direction.

[0047] “Forward direction of travel” or the letter“F” in the figures refers to the direction the tire was designed to predominantly travel in for aesthetics and or performance reasons. Travel in a direction different than the forward direction of travel is possible and anticipated.

[0048] “Direction of rotation” or the letter“D” in the figures refers to the direction the tire was designed to predominantly rotate in for aesthetics and/or performance reasons. Rotation in a direction opposite than the direction of rotation is possible and anticipated.

[0049] “Radial plane” means a plane that passes perpendicular to the equatorial plane and through the axis of rotation of the wheel.

[0050] “Lateral direction” or the letter“L” means a direction that is orthogonal to an equatorial plane.

[0051] “Elastic material” or“Elastomer” as used herein refers to a polymer exhibiting rubber- like elasticity, such as a material comprising rubber.

[0052] “Elastomeric” as used herein refers to a material comprising an elastic material or elastomer, such as a material comprising rubber.

[0053] “Interior angle” or“Internal angle” as used herein means an angle formed between two surfaces that is greater than 0 degrees but less than 180 degrees. An acute angle, a right angle and an obtuse angle would all be considered“interior angles” as the term is used herein.

[0054] “Exterior angle” or“External angle” or“Reflex angle” as used herein means an angle formed between two surfaces that is greater than 180 degrees but less than 360 degrees.

[0055] “Deflectable” means able to be bent resiliently.

[0056] “Nominal load” or“desired design load” is a load for which the structure is designed to carry. More specifically, when used in the context of a wheel or tire,“nominal load” refers to the load for which the wheel or tire is designed to carry and operate under. The nominal load or desired design load includes loads up to and including the maximum load specified by the manufacturer and, in the case of a vehicle tire, often indicated by marking on the side of a the tire. A loading condition in excess of the nominal load may be sustained by the structure, but with the possibility of structural damage, accelerated wear, or reduced performance. A loading condition of less than nominal load, but more than an unloaded state, may be considered a nominal load, though deflections will likely be less than deflections at nominal load.

[0057] “Modulus” or“Modulus of elongation” (MPa) was measured at 10% (MA10) at a temperature of 23 °C based on ASTM Standard D412 on dumbbell test pieces. The measurements were taken in the second elongation; i.e., after an accommodation cycle. These measurements are secant moduli in MPa, based on the original cross section of the test piece.

[0058] FIG. 1 shows a lateral side view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein a plurality of spokes 100 are attached to an outer tread band 200 forming a part of a tire 10. The tire 10 may be incorporated into a wheel. For example the tire 10 may be part of non-pneumatic wheel having a hub 12 which is attached to a passenger vehicle allowing the vehicle to roll across a ground surface. Other objects and vehicles may incorporate the invention, including but not limited to: heavy duty truck, trailer, light truck, off-road vehicles, ATV, UTV, golf carts, bus, aircraft, agricultural, mining, bicycle, motorcycles, and passenger vehicle tires. Such a non-pneumatic wheel would possess a hub 12 that would have a radially outer surface having an axis of revolution about a central axis 20. The tire 10 may be attached to the hub 10 by any of a number of methods, for example, by mechanical fasteners such as bolts, screws, clamps or slots, and/or by adhesives such as cyanoacrylates, polyurethane adhesives, and/or by other bonding materials or a combination thereof.

[0059] The tire 10 shown here possesses an axis of rotation 20 about which the tire 10 rotates. In this exemplary embodiment, the radially outer surface 230 of the outer tread band 200 interfaces with a ground surface 30 over which the tire rolls. Under a nominal load, as shown here, the spokes 100 of the tire flex as the tire enter and exit the contact patch. Smaller deflections occur in the spokes 100 as the spoke rotates about the axis 20 outside the contact patch, but most of the deflection occurs when the spoke 100 enters, exits and travels through the contact patch region.

[0060] Each spoke of this exemplary embodiment 100 possesses a“nose” portion 130 which acts as a resilient hinge. The“nose” portion 130 is an elastomeric joint body connecting a support element forming the radially inner portion of the spoke and a support element forming the radially outer portion of the spoke. The support elements of the spoke 100 are initially positioned at an angle relative to each other. The angle between the spoke support elements measuring less than 180 degrees is the interior angle and the angle between the spoke support elements measuring greater than 180 degrees is the exterior angle. The elastomeric joint is comprised of an elastomer attached to each spoke support element and is positioned on the side of the spoke elements on the interior angle side.

[0061] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 the radially inner portion of the spoke possesses a radially inner foot 112 which connects to another surface, which is the radially outer surface of the hub 12. In this embodiment, the radially inner foot 112 is comprised of an elastomeric joint body that connects the radially outer support to the hub 12. The radially outer portion of the spoke 100 possesses a radially outer foot 114 which is comprised of another elastomeric joint body which connects the outer support element to yet another surface which is in the present embodiment the radially inner surface of the outer tread band 200.

[0062] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the tread band 200 comprises an elastomeric material and allows deformation to form a planar footprint in the contact patch. In this exemplary embodiment, the radially outer foot 114 of the spoke 100 is attached to the radially inner surface 202 of the tread band 200 and to the opposite side of the support element from the nose portion 130. In this embodiment, the spoke is adhered in place by a urethane adhesive. In other embodiments, the spoke may be attached by other adhesives, such as a cyanoacrylate adhesive, or may be attached by other methods, including by adhering the elastomeric material together, for instance by using green rubber and curing the rubber components together, or using a strip of green rubber between cured or partially cured rubber components, or using a cold vulcanization process such as by using a rubber cement.

[0063] In the embodiment shown, the outer band 200 possesses reinforcement 210 to strengthen the outer band. A tread 230 is provided on the radially outer surface of the outer band 200. In this particular embodiment, the reinforcement is in the form of a

circumferentially oriented fiber reinforced composite material. In other embodiments, other material such as metal may be used as a reinforcement to strengthen the bond. In such metallic reinforced outer band structures, the metal may take the form of one or more cables wound around the axis of rotation 20 of the tire 10. In some embodiments, the outer tread band 200 may lack a reinforcement structure to help carry the load circumferentially around the tire.

[0064] For this particular embodiment, the size of the tire 100 is 205/55R 16 with the lateral width of the tread being about 215 mm. [0065] FIG. 2 shows a perspective cutaway view of the exemplary spoke embodiment 100 with portions removed to show the embodiment’s components including reinforcement location and orientation. Portions of the reinforcement 134 of the nose reinforcement membrane 640 are shown, as well as a portion of the elongated leg reinforcements 146 of the leg 140 and a part of the foot reinforcements of the foot reinforcement membrane are shown as well. Approximately half of the reinforcement cords 134 of the nose membrane 640 of this particular embodiment are oriented at a +45 degree angle and the other half of the reinforcement cords 134 of the nose membrane 640 are oriented at a -45 degree angle to the equatorial plane and wrapped around the nose 130 of the spoke 100. Likewise, approximately half of the reinforcement cords of the foot reinforcement membranes 600 and 620 of this particular embodiment are oriented at a +45 degree angle and the other half of reinforcement membranes 600 and 620 are oriented at a -45 degree angle to the equatorial plane and wrapped around each foot 112, 114 of the spoke 100.

[0066] The cords of reinforcement membranes 640, 600 and 620 in this embodiment are interwoven. In other embodiments, the cords may be laid and not interwoven at different angles, or in yet other embodiments they may have the same angle as one another. In other embodiments, reinforcement membranes may also be laid upon one another, each having similar cord angles or distinct cord angles to one another. The support element 140 reinforcements 146 are shown as elongated reinforcements oriented generally in the radial direction along the length of the support elements 140. In this embodiment the support element 140 reinforcements 146 are comprised of pultruded fiberglass resin rods. These reinforcements 146 are embedded in a rubber elastomer to form the support element 140 of the spoke 100. It should be understood that other reinforcements or combinations of reinforcements and may be possible including using, but not limited to using carbon fiber composite materials, aramid fiber composite materials or metal reinforcements.

[0067] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, reinforcement membranes 640, 600 and 620 are positioned over the exterior angle surface of the nose 130 portion, over the exterior angle of radially inner foot 112 and over the external angle of radially outer foot 114 respectively. It should be understood that any one, any two, or all of these reinforcement membranes 640, 600 and 620 may be absent in alternative embodiments. For example, alternative embodiments may have a reinforcement membrane 620 only at the radially outer portion 114 of the spoke 100 and a reinforcement membrane 640 over the nose portion 130. In yet other alternative embodiments, the reinforcement membrane 600 may be only at the radially inner portion 112 of the spoke and a reinforcement membrane 640 may be only over the nose portion 130 of the spoke.

[0068] In the embodiment, the spoke maintains a similar cross section profile in the lateral (L) direction of the spoke. It can be seen that the feet 110, both the radially inner foot 112 and radially outer foot 114, each provide an attachment point to the hub 12 and outer band 200 of the wheel 10. A widening in the circumferential direction at the radially inner end of the radially inner foot 112 provides circumferentially broad surface 122 for attachment, such as adhering, bonding and/or mechanically, to the hub 12. A

reinforcement membrane 600 is positioned at the circumferentially narrow portion of the radially inner foot 112. Likewise a widening in the circumferential direction at the radially outer end of the radially outer foot 114 provides circumferentially broad surface 124 for attachment, such as adhering, bonding and/or mechanically, to the outer tread band 200. A reinforcement membrane 620 is positioned at the circumferentially narrow portion of the radially outer foot 114. The radially inner surface 122 and radially outer surface 124 in the embodiment shown are shown to be slightly curved in the circumferential direction of the spoke to match the radius of curvature of the hub and radially inner surface 202 of the outer band 200 at the location where the spoke attaches in the respective positions.

Alternatively, the surface of the radially inner surface 122 and radially outer surface 124 may also be flat in the circumferential direction of the spoke.

[0069] FIG. 3 shows a cross section taken along the equatorial plane at the lateral center of spoke the nose portion, or otherwise referred to as the“joint body” 130 of the spoke 100 of the embodiment shown is comprised of an elastomeric material and acts to connect a first and second support element, here comprising a radially inner leg 142 and a radially outer leg 144 respectively. The nose portion becomes thicker in the

circumferential direction between the radially inner leg 142 and radially outer leg 144. A reinforcement membrane 640 is positioned at the circumferentially narrow portion of the joint body 130 of the spoke. The reinforcement membrane 640 extends along at least a portion of the length of the radially outer leg 144 and extends along at least a portion of the length of the radially inner leg 142. The equatorial plane and circumferential direction of the spoke should be understood in this embodiment to be the same as the equatorial plane and circumferential direction of the wheel 10. In reference to a single spoke as shown in this embodiment, the circumferential direction is generally orthogonal to both the radial direction and the lateral direction. [0070] The radially inner leg 142 is slightly shorter than the radially outer leg 142 in the embodiment shown. This difference in length accommodates the change in radius as the spoke travels through the contact patch maximizing the space available for the adjacent spokes to“nest” and thus avoid contacting one another.

[0071] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view showing the lateral side and interior angle side of the spoke 100. In this embodiment, the cross section of the elastomeric joint body 136 varies laterally across the spoke 100. In this embodiment, the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 130 in a plane parallel to the equatorial plane is reduced near the lateral edges l4lof the spoke 100. This reduction of cross sectional area is accomplished in this embodiment by a groove 710 in the surface of the elastomeric joint body 136.

[0072] The reduction of the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 130 near the lateral edges 141 of the spoke 100 increases the compliance of the joint body 130 near the lateral edges and decreases the stresses localized in that vicinity. The reduction of the cross sectional area near the lateral edges can be accomplished by removing some of the volume of elastomeric material forming a groove 710. The groove 710 tappers and becomes shallower nearer the laterally center portion of the spoke 100. Alternatively the reduction of the cross sectional area near the lateral edges may be accomplished by decreasing the circumferential thickness of the elastomeric joint body 130 while maintaining a similar, albeit smaller, profile of the elastomeric joint body.

[0073] FIG. 5 shows a lateral side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. The reduced cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 130 is readily apparent from this view perpendicular to the equatorial plane.

[0074] FIG. 6 shows a planar view in the circumferential direction at the interior angle side of the spoke 100. The lateral groove 710 formed adjacent to both the right and left lateral sides 141.

[0075] FIG. 7 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 7-7 in FIG. 6 showing the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100.

[0076] FIG. 8 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 8-8 in FIG. 6 showing a reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 as the cross section is taken at a location closer to the lateral edge.

[0077] FIG. 9 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 9-9 in FIG. 6 showing a further reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 as the cross section is taken at a location even closer to the lateral edge.

[0078] FIG. 10 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 10-10 in FIG. 6 showing an even further reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 as the cross section is taken at a location proximal to the lateral edge.

[0079] FIG. 11 shows a lateral side view of an alternative embodiment. The reduced cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 130 is readily apparent from this view perpendicular to the equatorial plane where a triangular shaped groove has been formed adjacent to the lateral edge 141 of the spoke 100.

[0080] In alternative embodiments the reduction in cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke may be in the form of a groove having an irregular shape, or a geometric shape such as a triangle as shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 shows a planar view in the circumferential direction at the interior angle side of the spoke 100. The triangularly shaped lateral groove 710 formed adjacent to both the right and left lateral sides 141.

[0081] FIG. 13 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 13-13 in FIG. 12 showing the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100.

[0082] FIG. 14 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 14-14 in FIG. 12 showing a reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 as the cross section is taken at a location closer to the lateral edge.

[0083] FIG. 15 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 15-15 in FIG. 12 showing a further reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 as the cross section is taken at a location even closer to the lateral edge.

[0084] FIG. 16 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 16-16 in FIG. 12 showing an even further reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 as the cross section is taken at a location proximal to the lateral edge.

[0085] FIG. 17 shows a lateral side view of another alternative embodiment. The elastomeric body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 has discrete locations adjacent to the lateral edge 141 of the spoke having a reduced cross sectional area. In this embodiment the areas of reduced cross sectional area are formed by apertures formed in the surface of the elastomeric joint body 136 near the lateral edges. The reduction of area is not apparent from this lateral side view except for the dashed lines which represent at least one void 710 within the elastomeric joint body 136.

[0086] FIG. 18 shows a planar view in the circumferential direction at the interior angle side of the spoke 100. Here, a plurality of apertures 710 formed on the elastomeric joint body 136 adjacent to both the right and left lateral sides 141. Another way of

characterizing this embodiment is to say that if we divided up the elastomeric joint body into three equal portions, a left lateral outer 1/3, a middle 1/3 and a right lateral outer 1/3, the left lateral outer 1/3 of the elastomeric joint body 136 possesses less volume than the middle 1/3 and he right lateral outer 1/3 of the elastomeric joint body possesses less volume than the middle 1/3. Yet another way of characterizing this embodiment is to say that the average cross sectional area of the right or left outer 1/3 of the joint body is less than the average cross sectional area of the middle 1/3.

[0087] FIG. 19 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 19-19 in FIG. 18 showing the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100.

[0088] FIG. 20 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 20-20 in FIG. 18 showing a reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100. The cross section is taken at a location closer to the lateral edge. The reduction of the cross sectional area is achieved by a plurality of apertures forming voids 710 in the elastomeric joint body.

[0089] FIG. 21 shows a lateral side view of another alternative embodiment. The elastomeric body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 has discrete locations adjacent to the lateral edge 141 of the spoke having a reduced cross sectional area which are formed by elongated apertures in the surface of the elastomeric joint body 136 near the lateral edges. The reduction of area is not apparent from this lateral side view except for the dashed lines which represent at least one void 710 within the elastomeric joint body 136.

[0090] FIG. 22 shows a planar view in the circumferential direction at the interior angle side of the spoke 100. Here, a plurality of elongated apertures 710 formed on the elastomeric joint body 136 adjacent to both the right and left lateral sides 141. [0091] FIG. 23 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 23-23 in FIG. 22 showing the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100.

[0092] FIG. 24 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 24-24 in FIG. 22 showing a reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100. The cross section is taken at a location closer to the lateral edge. The reduction of the cross sectional area is achieved by a plurality of apertures forming voids 710 in the elastomeric joint body. The number of apertures may vary in alternative embodiments. The size of the apertures may vary in alternative embodiments such that, for example, the apertures positioned closer to the lateral edges 141 of the spoke 100 are larger than the apertures positioned closer to the lateral middle of the spoke.

[0093] FIG. 25 shows a lateral side view of yet another alternative embodiment. The elastomeric body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100 has discrete locations adjacent to the lateral edge 141 of the spoke having a reduced cross sectional area which are formed by elongated shaped apertures in the surface of the elastomeric joint body 136 near the lateral edges. The reduction of area is not apparent from this lateral side view except for the dashed lines which represent at least one void 710 within the elastomeric joint body 136.

[0094] FIG. 26 shows a planar view in the circumferential direction at the interior angle side of the spoke 100. Here, a plurality of elongated concave shaped apertures 710 formed on the elastomeric joint body 136 adjacent to both the right and left lateral sides 141.

[0095] FIG. 27 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 27-27 in FIG. 26 showing the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100.

[0096] FIG. 28 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 28-28 in FIG. 26 showing a reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100. The cross section is taken at a location closer to the lateral edge. The reduction of the cross sectional area is achieved by a plurality of concave shaped apertures forming voids 710 in the elastomeric joint body. Here the apertures possess a concave shape, meaning that the apertures curve inward so as to narrow near the middle of the aperture.

[0097] FIG. 29 provides a section view of the embodiment taken on line 29-29 in FIG. 26 showing a reduction in the cross sectional area of the elastomeric joint body 136 of the nose portion 130 of the spoke 100. The cross section is taken at a location through the middle of an aperture. In alternative embodiments the apertures may have an irregular shape or in yet another alternative embodiment the apertures may be differently shaped.

[0098] FIG. 30 shows a lateral view of a tire incorporating a plurality of spokes of a previous design lacking the reduced cross section elastomeric joint body 130 at the lateral edge of the spoke 100. The tire 10 in this figure is being loaded onto a cleat 5, shown here in cross section. The cleat 5 is approximately 110 inches tall and the top surface is approximately 20 mm wide. The cleat 5 is positioned upon an otherwise flat surface and is offset from vertically aligning with the axis of rotation of the tire by being displaced in the tire’s circumferential direction by approximately 25 mm. The cleat 5 extends laterally across the tire’s width and is vertically angled in the tire’s lateral direction at an angle of 5 degrees, such that it decreases in height from one side of the tire to the other. The angled cleat loads one lateral edge of the tire more than the middle portion of the tire, simulating the tire hitting an obstacle on the road at an angle, such as may be encountered when a tire encounters a pothole, expansion joint, curb or railroad track. During this test, the tire is loaded upon cleat 5 to a load in excess of the nominal loading that the tire is designed for, the outer band 200 is deflected radially inward causing increased loading on the spokes 100 adjacent to the cleat 5. As it is loaded, the compliant outer band forms an arc having a radius radially outside the outer band. The excessive loading and angular distortion of the outer band creates stress concentrations on the lateral edge of the spoke. As the leg of the spoke bends, it reaches an angular displacement at which the resilient material making up the reinforcement structurally fails. The failure of the reinforcement is evident by the sharp angle a shown in FIG. 30.

[0099] FIG. 31 shows an embodiment of the inventive spoke having a variable profile elastomeric joint body on a non-pneumatic tire which is loaded on a cleat 5 positioned on an otherwise flat surface as was done in the previous figure. The embodiment of the invention shown here reduces the stress on the inner leg 140 reinforcements 146 resulting in a marketable decrease incidence of breakage and ability to withstand a higher loading prior to reinforcement breakage than the previous design. As can be observed, a shallow angle a’ of the radially inner leg 140 above the elastomeric joint body 136 shows a decrease in angular displacement of the elongated reinforcements 146 within the leg 140. This reduction of stress has been observed to eliminate or reduce the extent of breakage in the laterally outer spoke reinforcements 146. [00100] It should be understood that other web element configurations and geometries may be used within the scope of the invention, including web elements which are interconnected such as where they may form a honeycomb or other pattern. While when the resilient composite structure is configured as a spoke they are configured to extend in a lateral direction across the width of the tire, it should be understood that they may be configured at other angles, such as at an angle to the lateral direction of the tire. For example, the spoke may extend at a diagonal between the circumferential direction and the lateral direction of the tire.

[00101] Selected combinations of aspects of the disclosed technology correspond to a plurality of different embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that each of the exemplary embodiments presented and discussed herein should not insinuate limitations of the present subject matter. Features or steps illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used in combination with aspects of another embodiment to yield yet further embodiments. Additionally, certain features may be interchanged with similar devices or features not expressly mentioned which perform the same or similar function.

[00102] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as“40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.” Also, the dimensions and values disclosed herein are not limited to a specified unit of measurement. For example, dimensions expressed in English units are understood to include equivalent dimensions in metric and other units (e.g., a dimension disclosed as“1 inch” is intended to mean an equivalent dimension of “2.5 cm”).

[00103] As used herein, the term“method” or“process” refers to one or more steps that may be performed in other ordering than shown without departing from the scope of the presently disclosed invention. As used herein, the term "method" or "process" may include one or more steps performed at least by one electronic or computer-based apparatus. Any sequence of steps is exemplary and is not intended to limit methods described herein to any particular sequence, nor is it intended to preclude adding steps, omitting steps, repeating steps, or performing steps simultaneously. As used herein, the term "method" or "process" may include one or more steps performed at least by one electronic or computer-based apparatus having a processor for executing instructions that carry out the steps. [00104] The terms "a," "an," and the singular forms of words shall be taken to include the plural form of the same words, such that the terms mean that one or more of something is provided. The terms "at least one" and "one or more" are used interchangeably. Ranges that are described as being "between a and b" are inclusive of the values for "a" and "b."

[00105] Every document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or application is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A spoke for a wheel, said tire having an axis of rotation, a lateral direction and a radial direction that is orthogonal to said axis of rotation, the spoke attaching an outer tread band to a hub, comprising:

a first spoke element having a first side and a second side;

a second spoke element having a first side and a second side, said second spoke element joined to said first spoke element, said first side of said first spoke element and said first side of said second spoke element forming a concave side;

a joint body connecting said first spoke element and said second spoke element, the joint body positioned on said concave side; and

wherein said joint body comprises a volume of an elastomeric material, said volume forming a cross sectional area in a plane orthogonal to said first side of said first spoke element and orthogonal to said first side of said second spoke element, said cross sectional area having a magnitude, the magnitude of said cross sectional area varying laterally across said joining body.

2. The spoke of claim 1 wherein the magnitude of said cross sectional area of said joint body decreases proximate to a lateral edge of the joint body.

3. The spoke of any one of the above claims wherein said joint body possesses apertures extending into the joint body.

4. The spoke of claim 2 wherein the said joint body possesses grooves extending into the joint body and the joint body cross sectional area decreases from the lateral center of the joint body to the lateral edge of the joint body.

5. The spoke of any one of the above claims wherein said spoke extends from a first lateral side of the wheel to a second lateral side of the wheel.

6. The spoke of any one of the above claims wherein said first spoke element and said second spoke element are each comprised of a plurality of elongated reinforcements.

7. The spoke of claim 6 wherein the plurality of elongated reinforcements are comprised of fiberglass.

8. The spoke of any of the above claims wherein the joint body is comprised of rubber.

9. The spoke of claim 7 wherein said first spoke element, said second spoke element further comprised of a second elastomeric material, said elongated reinforcements of said first spoke element and said second spoke element embedded in said second elastomeric material.

10. The spoke of claim 9 wherein said elastomeric material is rubber and said second elastomeric material is rubber.

11. The spoke of claim 9 or 10 wherein said elastomeric material and said second elastomeric material are the same material.

12. The spoke of any one of the above claims further comprising a second joint body connected to said first spoke element.

13. The spoke of claim 12 further comprising a third joint body connected to said second spoke element.

14. The spoke of claim 13 further comprising a first end and a second end opposite said first end, wherein said second joint body is positioned at said first end on said second side of said first spoke element and said third joint body is positioned at said second end on said second side of said second spoke element.