| 摘要 |
A run-flat pneumatic tire having an annular structural compression element in the inside surface of the crown thereof, which compression element is stabilized by a multiplicity of closely spaced spoke-like radial elements in the tire sidewalls such that de-pressurized operation of the tire without damage is possible. The compression element is a helix with closely spaced coils wound from a rod of a cross-sectional shape selected from various solid and tubular configurations. Round, square, and rectangular coil cross-sectional configurations are shown as are interlocking convex/concave, tongue/groove arrangements. Methods of installing the helical compression element in the tire as by winding up the helix to reduce its diameter such that it can pass through the beads, or by introducing one end of an end coil of the helix over one of the beads into the interior of the tire and providing a relative rotation to feed the helix into the tire are taught. The compression element can be bonded in place and various means for preloading the installed helix are also disclosed. |
