GB2575889A

GB2575889A - A supporting member

Info

Publication number: GB2575889A
Application number: GB1817635.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Allnutt Edward; Battrick Will
Original assignee: Carbon Threesixty Ltd
Current assignee: Carbon Threesixty Ltd
Priority date: 2018-07-26
Filing date: 2018-10-29
Publication date: 2020-01-29
Anticipated expiration: 2038-10-29
Also published as: GB201812221D0; WO2020021268A1; GB201817635D0; GB2575889B

Abstract

A circular or annular supporting member 1 for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements 10, wherein the interlocking elements 10 interlock radially, concentrically or circumferentially.

Description

Title: A supporting member

Background

Run-flat tyres are designed to remain useable even after a puncture causes a loss of pressure in the tyre.

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

Run-flat tyres/wheel systems have clear safety benefits as the tyre can still be used even when punctured, but there are weight penalties for the necessary reinforcing structure/supporting member.

Supporting members that comprise annular sections that are secured together in an axial direction (preventing radial movement) with fasteners are known and are illustrated in figure 1.

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

Brief summary of the invention

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

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

Further aspects of the invention are discussed below.

Brief description of the drawings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIGURE 8 shows a second perspective view of the wheel assembly of figure 7;

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

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

FIGURE 11 shows an exploded perspective view of the wheel assembly of figure 7;

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

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

FIGURE 14 shows a plan view of a second embodiment of interlocking elements for a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel;

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

FIGURE 16 shows perspective view of a fourth embodiment of an interlocking element for a supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel; and

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

Detailed description

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

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

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

As best shown in figure 3, the two interlocking elements 10a, 10b preferably each have an outer circumferential protrusion 11a (i.e. a protrusion extending circumferentially) at a first end, extending from the main body and an inner circumferential protrusion 13a at a second end, extending from the main body, with a complementary inner circumferential recess 12a at the first end of the main body and a complementary outer circumferential recess 14a at a second end of the main body.

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

Referring to figures 2 and 3, the recesses 12a, 14a of the first interlocking element 10a are shaped to receive the complementary protrusions 13b and 11b of the second interlocking element 10b and similarly the recesses 12b, 14b of the second interlocking element 10a are shaped to receive the complementary protrusions 13a and 11a of the second interlocking element 10b.

The interlocking elements 10a, 10b are shaped to overlap radially around at least a portion of an (intermediate) circumference. Of course, the tolerances in manufacturing and the stiffness (compressibility) of the materials used require a larger overlap than might theoretically be possible to control radial movement. Preferred overlap angles are discussed below.

The known prior art supporting member of figure 1 comprises 3 elements that overlap axially and the overlapping elements are then secured radially with fasteners. The supporting member of the present invention does not require fasteners.

The interlocking elements 10a, 10b of the present invention have an inner circumference, an intermediate circumference and an outer circumference. As shown in figure 2, the interlocking elements 10a, 10b overlap between the inner and outer circumference, with the inner 13a, 13b and outer 11a, 11b protrusions being concentric, thus the interlocking elements 10a, 10b can potentially also be described as interlocking ‘concentrically’ or ‘circumferentially’.

Preferably, the radial thicknesses of the protrusions 11,13 and recesses 12, 14 are half the radial thickness of the main body. In some embodiments, the outer protrusions 11 (and therefore their complementary recesses 14) are thicker than the inner protrusions 13 (and therefore their complementary recesses 12).

In another embodiment (not shown), the first interlocking element 10a comprises an inner circumferential protrusion 13 at both first and second ends thereof and the second interlocking element 10b comprises an outer circumferential protrusion 11 at both first and second ends thereof. The first interlocking element 10a further comprises complementary outer circumferential recesses 14 at both the first and second ends thereof; and the second interlocking element 10b further comprises complementary inner circumferential recesses 12 at both the first and second ends thereof.

The interlocking elements 10a, 10b co-operate to interlock together at their respective ends in a radial direction. In other words, when interlocked, the complementary protrusions 11, 13 and recesses 12, 14 overlap radially or circumferentially, or are concentric. In some configurations, particularly depending on the shape and size of the interlocking recesses and protrusions, the elements 10a, 10b cannot then readily be separated by a purely radial force without compressing the elements 10a, 10b (assuming they are machined accurately) or translating them (in a non-radial direction) at least when a central element, such as a wheel hub, is present. Thus, when the support member 1 is fitted to a wheel hub, at least one of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b is pressed into engagement with another of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b.

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

In some embodiments, an angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion 13 and the end of the inner circumferential recess 12 of the same interlocking element (i.e. from B to C for element 10a; or vice-versa for element 10b) is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°; and/or an angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion 11 and the outer circumferential recess 14 of the same interlocking element (i.e. from A to D for element 10a or vice-versa for element 10b) is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°.

The respective ‘ends’ are marked by dashed lines in figure 2. Preferably, the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion 13 and the end of the inner circumferential recess 12 of the same interlocking element; and the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion 11 and the outer circumferential recess 14 of the same interlocking element, are the same.

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

Figure 2 also illustrates the overlap angle of the cooperating inner and outer protrusions of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b, i.e. B-D (or A-C) as shown. Preferably, all overlap angles are the same, but multiple different overlap angles may be used, as discussed further below. The overlap angle defines the degree of interlock between the interlocking elements 10a, 10b, i.e. the degree of restraint from outward radial movement of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b with respect to one another. A larger overlap angle provides greater resistance to radial forces, but can make assembly more difficult.

In embodiments, an overlap angle of 5°-340°, 5-180°, preferably 10-90°, 1575°, or 20-60°, more preferably 25-45° or 25-35° and further preferably an overlap angle of at least 20°, at least 30°, at least 35° or substantially 30° is used.

Approximately 30° is a preferred angle as this provides a robust interlock preventing separation of the two elements 10a, 10b by a radial force in most directions even without a central element, such as a wheel hub, being present, whilst still providing straightforward assembly. Importantly, when assembled onto a wheel hub, the two elements 10a, 10b are restrained from outward radial movement in all directions.

An overlap angle slightly larger than 30°, e.g. 35-45°, is also preferred as such an overlap angle can prevent separation of the two elements 10a, 10b by a radial force in any direction even without a central element, such as a wheel hub, being present.

Figures 14 and 15 illustrate further embodiments similar to the interlocking elements 10a, 10b of figure 2, but with larger overlap angles. Figure 2 illustrates an overlap angle of approximately 60°, figure 14 illustrates an overlap angle of approximately 70-80° and figure 15 illustrates two differing (minor and major) overlap angles, showing a minimum (minor) overlap angle of approximately 120° and a maximum (major) overlap angle of approximately 200°.

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

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

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

Figures 7-11 illustrate a wheel assembly 100 embodying the present invention. The wheel assembly 100 comprises an outer (road-side) flange or hub 20, the flange 20 having a lip 21 and a rim 22 for receiving the interlocking elements 10a, 10b; and the wheel assembly further comprises an inner (inside) flange 40 having a lip 41.

The wheel assembly 100 may further comprise one or more resilient members 30 for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements 10a, 10b on the rim

22. The resilient member(s) 30 provide(s) a compliant securing element helping to locate the supporting member 1 axially in the optimal place on the rim 22 of the wheel hub 20, where the supporting element 1 only supports the tyre when very underinflated or flat, but not under normal loading conditions.

The width (axial length) of the member 30 is sized to axially locate the supporting member 1 appropriately.

In some embodiments, multiple resilient members 30 may be used, for example a first resilient member 30a may be provided to secure the interlocking elements 10a, 10b relative to the outer (road-side) lip 21 of the wheel rim 22; and a second resilient member 30b may be provided to secure the interlocking elements 10a, 10b relative to the inner (inside) lip 41 of the wheel assembly 100, thus providing a double-bonded assembly between the two flanges 20, 40.

Figures 12 and 13 illustrate some preferred configurations of multiple resilient members 30 locating the supporting member 1 to support a tyre 50 in run-flat conditions. In the first configuration of figure 12, two resilient members 30a, 30b are provided: a first member 30a supporting the supporting member 1 and a second member 30b locating and/or securing the first resilient member 30a and thereby the supporting member 1, or directly locating and/or securing the supporting member 1 as shown (the gaps shown are exaggerated for clarity).

The first resilient member 30a is generally L-shaped in cross-section, extending from the lip 21 of the rim 22, under the supporting member 1 and preferably tapers axially (as shown) to locate and/or secure the supporting member 1 in an axial direction, in the partial recess 31a, to support the tyre 50 in run-flat conditions. The second resilient member 30b is generally rectangular or square in cross-section, extending from the opposing lip 41 of the wheel hub and having a radial thickness greater than that of the section of the first resilient member 30a supporting the element 10a, securing the supporting member 1 in the recess 31a of the first resilient member 30a and securing the supporting member 1 axially.

In the second configuration of figure 13, four resilient members 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d are used. In this embodiment, there are matching pairs of resilient elements 30a, 30d; and 30b, 30c that have the same profile and are interchangeable to aid assembly. The first pair 30a, 30d are sized to locate the supporting member 1 axially and the second pair 30b, 30c are shaped to taper axially and secure the supporting member 1 axially in their respective partial recesses 31 b, 31 c. Of course, members 30a+30b and 30b+30c may be combined as one piece in some embodiments.

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

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

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

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

In some embodiments, at least a tip of the protrusions 11, 13 of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b are made from a more flexible material than the main body of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b. For example, the flexible tip may be the final 10-20% of the total length of the protrusion, to aid assembly.

Figure 16 illustrates a further embodiment wherein the interlocking element 10a of figure 3 further comprises an additional protrusion or elongate flange 16a extending circumferentially at an intermediate portion of the outer protrusion 11a, with a complementary circumferential slot or groove 17a in the inner protrusion 13a, for receiving a complementary additional protrusion 16b of a co-operating interlocking element 10b. These complementary protrusions and slots/grooves further secure the interlocking elements 10a, 10b together. In figure 16, the protrusion and complementary slot are concentric with the curvature of the interlocking elements 10a, 10b.

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

In further embodiments (not shown), the slot or groove 17 may be radial (i.e. offset by 90° from extending circumferentially), where co-operating interlocking elements 10a, 10b thereby further engage radially. The additional protrusion or elongate flange 16 and complementary slot or groove 17 may be located anywhere on the interlocking element 10a, 10b but are preferably located at or proximal to respective ends of the protrusions 11, 13 as shown.

Figure 17 illustrates a further embodiment of the interlocking element 10a. In this embodiment, both protrusions 11, 13 are stepped, i.e. L-shaped in cross12 section, with corresponding recesses 12 and 14. Accordingly, the complementary interlocking element 10b comprises curved protrusions 13, 11 (not shown) that co-operate with the L-shaped protrusions 11, 13 of interlocking element 10a. In further embodiments, a first end of the 5 interlocking element 10a comprises a stepped, i.e. L-shaped in cross-section protrusion 11, with corresponding inner recess 12, as shown in figure 15, whilst a second end of the interlocking element 10a (not as shown in figure 15) comprises a stepped, i.e. L-shaped in cross-section, recess 14, with corresponding inner protrusion 13. These embodiments are further beneficial 10 as they aid assembly by securing the interlocking elements 10a, 10b with respect to one another axially.

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

Claims

Preferred features 1. A circular or annular supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements, wherein the interlocking elements interlock radially, concentrically or circumferentially. 2. A ring-shaped supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements shaped to overlap and interlock radially at, along or around at least a partial circumference of the ring. 3. A circular or annular supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements, wherein the interlocking elements interlock such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another. 4. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the interlocking elements interlock together such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another; or wherein the interlocking elements interlock together such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another when constrained by a central element, preferably a wheel hub. 5. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the interlocking elements interlock together to form the supporting member; and/or wherein the interlocking elements have first and second ends and the interlocking elements co-operate to interlock together at their respective ends; and/or wherein the interlocking elements interlock such that when the support member is fitted to a wheel hub, at least one of the interlocking elements is pressed into engagement with another of the interlocking elements. 6. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein: at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending circumferentially from a first end and/or a complementary recess or slot; or a first interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending circumferentially from a first end thereof and a second interlocking elements is shaped to receive the protrusion extending circumferentially from the first end of the first interlocking element. 7. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending radially and/or a complementary recess or slot for further securing the interlocking elements together; and/or wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises multiple protrusions and/or recess at one or more ends thereof. 8. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the interlocking elements comprise semi-circular or semi-annular sections, each having a protrusion and/or a recess at one or more ends thereof, for engaging with a complementary one of a recess and a protrusion of an end of another interlocking element. 9. The supporting member of clause 8, wherein a protrusion of a first interlocking element has an L-shaped cross-section and a recess of a second interlocking element has an L-shaped cross-section, preferably wherein a first interlocking element comprises a protrusion having an L shaped cross-section at both ends thereof; and a second interlocking element comprises a recess having an L-shaped cross-section at both ends thereof. 10. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the interlocking elements each comprise an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof. 11 .The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein: a. a first interlocking element comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at both first and second ends thereof; b. a second interlocking element comprises an outer circumferential protrusion at both first and second ends thereof; c. the first interlocking element further comprises complementary outer circumferential recesses at both the first and second ends thereof; and d. the second interlocking element further comprises complementary inner circumferential recesses at both the first and second ends thereof. 12. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein the protrusions and recesses are concentric; and/or wherein, when interlocked, the protrusions and recesses overlap radially, concentrically or circumferentially. 13. The supporting member of any of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the interlocking elements each comprise an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof, and the interlocking elements interlock together to form the supporting member. 14. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein, when interlocked, the or each pair of complementary protrusions and recesses overlap circumferentially, having an overlap angle of 5-340°, 5-180°, preferably 10-90°, 15-75°, or 20-60°, more preferably 25-45°, or 25-35° and further preferably at least 20°, at least 30°, at least 35° or substantially 30°. 15. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof; and an angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°; and/or an angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175185°, most preferably substantially 180°. 16. The supporting member of clause 15, wherein: the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element; and the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element are the same; and/or wherein: the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the each interlocking element is the same; and/or the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of each interlocking element is the same. 17. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion or recess for interlocking axially; and/or wherein the interlocking elements are constructed from a fibrereinforced material, preferably glass or carbon fibre; and/or wherein at least a tip of the protrusions of the interlocking elements are made from a more flexible material than a main body of the interlocking elements. 18. The supporting member of any preceding clause, wherein an inner circumference or circumferential wall of the interlocking elements tapers axially; and/or wherein an inner circumference or circumferential wall of the interlocking elements has a trapezoidal cross-section. 19. The supporting member of any preceding clause, sized to pass into a tyre cavity for fitting to a wheel assembly; and/or wherein the interlocking elements do not use or comprise fasteners; and/or wherein the supporting member is hollow; and/or further comprising a bracing or reinforcing element, such as a metal plate or beam extending around an intermediate circumference of the supporting member, for stiffening the supporting member. 20. A supporting member or wheel assembly substantially as shown in figures 2-17. 21. A single interlocking element in accordance with any preceding clause for use in run-flat tyre or wheel. 22. A wheel assembly comprising a hub and the supporting member of any preceding clause. 23. The wheel assembly of clause 22, further comprising one or more resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub; and/or comprising a shoulder for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub. 24. The wheel assembly of any preceding clause: a. wherein a rim of the hub is tapered axially for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub; and/or b. further comprising one or more axially-tapering resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub. 25. A method of assembling a run-flat wheel, comprising: securing the at least two interlocking elements of any of clauses 1 to 29 together on a wheel rim, interlocking the elements together to provide the supporting member; fitting a tyre over the supporting member; and securing a flange to the wheel rim. 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising: axially location and securing the supporting member on the wheel rim using a resilient member. 27. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon configured to 3D-print an interlocking element, supporting element or wheel assembly in accordance with any preceding claim. 28. A kit of parts comprising the interlocking elements of any of clauses 1- 21. 29. The kit of parts of clause 28, further comprising a wheel and/or a tyre. When used in this specification and clauses, the terms comprises and comprising and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components. The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following clauses, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any 10 combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments or clauses described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiments or clauses described herein. Index to reference numerals I supporting member 10 interlocking element II outer protrusion 12 inner recess 13 inner protrusion 14 outer recess 15 inner wall 16 additional protrusion 17 slot or groove 20 outer (road side) flange 21 outer (road side) flange lip 22 rim 30 resilient member 31 partial recess of resilient member 40 inner (inside) flange 41 inner (inside) flange lip 50 tyre 100 wheel assembly Claims

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

2. A ring-shaped supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements shaped to overlap and interlock radially at, along or around at least a partial circumference of the ring.

3. A circular or annular supporting member for a run-flat tyre or wheel, comprising at least two interlocking elements, wherein the interlocking elements interlock such that the two elements are restrained from outward radial movement with respect to one another.

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

5. The supporting member of any preceding claim, wherein the interlocking elements interlock together to form the supporting member; and/or wherein the interlocking elements have first and second ends and the interlocking elements co-operate to interlock together at their respective ends; and/or wherein the interlocking elements interlock such that when the support member is fitted to a wheel hub, at least one of the interlocking elements is pressed into engagement with another of the interlocking elements.

6. The supporting member of any preceding claim, wherein:

at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending circumferentially from a first end and/or a complementary recess or slot; or a first interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending circumferentially from a first end thereof and a second interlocking elements is shaped to receive the protrusion extending circumferentially from the first end of the first interlocking element.

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

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

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

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

11. The supporting member of any preceding claim, wherein:

a. a first interlocking element comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at both first and second ends thereof;

b. a second interlocking element comprises an outer circumferential protrusion at both first and second ends thereof;

c. the first interlocking element further comprises complementary outer circumferential recesses at both the first and second ends thereof; and

d. the second interlocking element further comprises complementary inner circumferential recesses at both the first and second ends thereof.

12. The supporting member of any preceding claim, wherein the protrusions and recesses are concentric; and/or wherein, when interlocked, the protrusions and recesses overlap radially, concentrically or circumferentially.

13. The supporting member of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the interlocking elements each comprise an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof, and the interlocking elements interlock together to form the supporting member.

14. The supporting member of any preceding claim, wherein, when interlocked, the or each pair of complementary protrusions and recesses overlap circumferentially, having an overlap angle of 5-340°, 5-180°, preferably 10-90°, 15-75°, or 20-60°, more preferably 25-45°, or 25-35° and further preferably at least 20°, at least 30°, at least 35° or substantially 30°.

15. The supporting member of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof; and an angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°; and/or an angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175185°, most preferably substantially 180°.

16. The supporting member of claim 15, wherein:

the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element; and the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element are the same; and/or wherein:

the angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the each interlocking element is the same; and/or the angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of each interlocking element is the same.

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

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

19. The supporting member of any preceding claim, sized to pass into a tyre cavity for fitting to a wheel assembly; and/or wherein the interlocking elements do not use or comprise fasteners; and/or wherein the supporting member is hollow; and/or further comprising a bracing or reinforcing element, such as a metal plate or beam extending around an intermediate circumference of the supporting member, for stiffening the supporting member.

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

21 .A wheel assembly comprising a hub and the supporting member of any preceding claim.

22. The wheel assembly of claim 21, further comprising one or more resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub; and/or comprising a shoulder for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub.

23. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim:

a. wherein a rim of the hub is tapered axially for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub; and/or

b. further comprising one or more axially-tapering resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on a rim of the hub.

24. A method of assembling a run-flat wheel, comprising: securing the at least two interlocking elements of any of claims 1 to 29 together on a wheel rim, interlocking the elements together to provide the supporting member;

fitting a tyre over the supporting member; and

5 securing a flange to the wheel rim.

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

Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows

09 10 19

Claims

1. A wheel assembly comprising:

a hub having a rim;

5 a circular or annular supporting member comprising at least two interlocking elements shaped to overlap and interlock radially at, along or around at least a partial circumference of the supporting member; and a tyre, wherein:

10 the interlocking elements comprise semi-circular or semi-annular sections, each having a protrusion and/or a recess at one or more ends thereof, for engaging with a complementary one of a recess and a protrusion of an end of another interlocking element; and the assembly comprises one or more resilient members

15 extending between the tyre and the supporting member, axially locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on the rim of the hub and the tyre axially with respect to the rim.

2. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the interlocking elements interlock together such that the two elements are restrained

20 from outward radial movement with respect to one another.

3. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein:

at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion extending radially and/or a complementary recess or slot for further securing the interlocking elements together; and/or

25. A computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon configured to 3D-print a wheel assembly or kit of parts in accordance with any preceding claim.

09 10 19

25 at least one of the interlocking elements comprises multiple protrusions and/or recess at one or more ends thereof.

4. The wheel assembly of claim 3, wherein a protrusion of a first interlocking element has an L-shaped cross-section and a recess of a second interlocking element has an L-shaped cross-section.

5. The wheel assembly of claim 4, wherein a first interlocking element comprises a protrusion having an L-shaped cross-section at both ends thereof; and a second interlocking element comprises a recess having an L-shaped cross-section at both ends thereof.

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

7. The wheel assembly of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein:

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

9. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein, when interlocked, the or each pair of complementary protrusions and recesses overlap circumferentially, having an overlap angle of 5-340°, 5-180°, preferably 10-90°, 15-75°, or 20-60°, more preferably 25-45°, or 25-35° and further preferably at least 20°, at least 30°, at least 35° or substantially 30°.

10. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises an inner circumferential protrusion at a first end and an outer circumferential protrusion at a second end thereof, with a complementary outer circumferential recess at the first end thereof and a complementary inner circumferential recess at a second end thereof; and an angle between the end of the inner circumferential protrusion and the end of the inner circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175-185°, most preferably substantially 180°; and/or an angle between the end of the outer circumferential protrusion and the outer circumferential recess of the same interlocking element is 90-270°, preferably 120-240°, 150-210°, 160-200°, 170-190° or 175185°, most preferably substantially 180°.

11. The wheel assembly of claim 10, wherein:

12. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the interlocking elements comprises a protrusion or recess for interlocking axially.

13. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the interlocking elements are constructed from a fibre-reinforced material.

14. The wheel assembly of claim 13, wherein the interlocking elements are constructed from glass fibre or carbon fibre.

15. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein at least a tip of the protrusions of the interlocking elements are made from a more flexible material than a main body of the interlocking elements.

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

17. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the interlocking elements do not use or comprise fasteners.

18. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein:

the supporting member is hollow; and/or further comprising a bracing or reinforcing element, such as a metal plate or beam, extending around an intermediate circumference of the supporting member, for stiffening the supporting member.

19. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the supporting member consists of two interlocking elements having the same profile and the interlocking elements are interchangeable.

20. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, further comprising one or more resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on the rim of the hub; and/or comprising a shoulder for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on the rim of the hub.

21. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the rim of the hub is tapered axially for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements and/or the tyre thereon.

22. The wheel assembly of any preceding claim comprising one or more axially-tapering resilient members for locating and/or securing the interlocking elements and/or the tyre on the rim of the hub.

23. A kit of parts comprising:

a circular or annular supporting member comprising at least two interlocking elements shaped to overlap and interlock radially at, along or around at least a partial circumference of the supporting member, wherein:

the interlocking elements comprise semi-circular or semi-annular sections, each having a protrusion and/or a recess at one or more ends thereof, for engaging with a complementary one of a recess and a protrusion of an end of another interlocking element; and the kit further comprises one or more resilient members that are configured for extending between a tyre and the supporting member, axially locating and/or securing the interlocking elements on the rim of a wheel hub and the tyre axially with respect to the rim in use.

24. The kit of parts of claim 23, further comprising a tyre and/or a wheel hub having a rim.