The present invention relates to a run-flat device for fitting to a mounted assembly for a motor vehicle and such a mounted assembly incorporating this device can be driven a long distance at a relatively high speed when the mounted assembly is partially or completely deflated.

For a one-piece rim, the known run-flat devices are generally constituted by a rigid supporting ring which is tightly mounted around a wheel rim inside of a tire. This ring is for example formed either integrally with the relatively flexible sidewalls which can be continuous or a flexible piece open (ie split) is at least two rigid parts in an arc or sectors.

WO-A1 -2008 / 132348 in the name of

Applicant has a flat-running device including rim hollow integral rim, intended to optimize the radial wedging during running in the inflated state of the ring on the rim (limiting its "centrifugation"). This device comprises a ring having an external face of support of the tire when running flat, and in its mounting face on the rim, means such as a lip or axial tab to wedge the ring in the hollow profile by marrying and a belt that surrounds the ring being applied to a recess of the support face. This belt can be provided with connecting means and reversibly lock with an adjustable clamping its two adjacent ends, as detailed in the document ΕΡ Λ1-2233752 also in the name of the Applicant.

The document CN-B-101362421 provides a run-flat inflatable device for monobioc rim, provided with support elements circumferentially spaced rubber each comprising two radially inner and outer soles, so that the circumference of the device is covered as very minority by these elements and very majoritarily by a clamping belt crossing.

A major drawback of known devices for monobloc rim lies in particular in their high manufacturing cost due to their specific geometry at each rim and tooling required for their assembly. In particular, the complexity of the device according to CN-B-101362421 generates a manufacturing cost and high assembly.

For a rim to a plurality of blocks, known devices are generally constituted by a support ring divided into segments connected together by a rigid connection assembly and clamping around the rim, and by means for locking the tire beads against the rim flanges for connecting these areas to the beads to ensure the traction of the mounted assembly in the event of reduced pressure in the latter.

EP-B1-1 550 566 discloses a paper rim runflat device for a plurality of blocks comprising a ring which consists of a circumferential juxtaposition of a large number of hollow and compartmentalized sectors and one radial recess which is applied a lockable clamping belt. These areas are connected in pairs to one another so close by joints. It should be recalled that, by definition, an "articulation" is an assembly of which the connecting element is formed by a pin or a ball joint allowing a relative angular displacement of the assembled parts (Larousse). In the case of EP-B 1-550 566, the assembled parts correspond to areas that are linked by a pin-type connecting element (axis 16 in Figure 7 of this document). Otherwise,

A major drawback of known for rim blocks several devices in particular lies in the need to use special tools for the insert and lock inside the tire. Moreover and with regard to the device according to EP-B1-1 550 566, the complex structure of articulated sectors further complicates the mounting of the device within the tire penalizing its manufacturing cost and assembly.

An object of the present invention is to provide a run-flat device for a mounted assembly for a motor vehicle comprising a wheel rim having a diameter D of the rim base and a tire mounted on the rim, the device being adapted to support the tire runflat device including addressing the aforementioned drawbacks and comprising:

- a support ring comprising a plurality of axial slices n (n being preferably equal to or greater than 12, or 25 and even more preferably to 50) which are juxtaposed on a circumference of the ring and which define a mounting face radially inner adapted to be mounted on said rim base and a radially outer support face adapted to support the tire when running flat, each of said slots having at least one radially span between said mounting face and said support face, and

- at least one retaining belt which encloses the ring on said circumference so as to maintain it substantially in contact with said rim base and which passes through said slots being applied to said at least one bearing each.

To this end, a run-flat device according to the invention is such that said slices are not hinged to each other and are contiguous or spaced apart about said circumference by a total amount of consecutive spacing, measured from said slices at said mounting face, which is less than TT.D / 2.

According to another characteristic of the invention, said at least one retaining strap may have two belt ends spaced apart and connected to each other by connecting and locking means adapted to lock said at least one belt which can also advantageously ensure adjustable clamping of the slices. Advantageously, these means forming a lockable connectors can be as presented in EP-A1-2 233 752, although other connectors are used in the present invention.

By "axial slices" is meant in this specification three-dimensional portions whose slice thickness in the circumferential direction of the ring, measured in their mounting face of internal, is less than the width and height respectively in the axial and radial directions of the ring. Thus, these axial slices generally define in their end faces the sections severed along lines of longitude axial planes or not meridians (Le. Which pass or do not pass through the axis of revolution of the ring being substantially perpendicular to the mid-circumferential plane ). In other words, the end faces of axial slices can be contained in or slightly inclined relative to these meridians yaws.

By "contiguous slices" is meant in the present description such axial slots that are in pairs substantially in contact at axial edges opposite their respective mounting faces, via:

- little or no axial play in the circumferential direction (this game may vary along the circumference of the ring and is for example between 0 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 5 mm) over all or part of the circumference of the ring, and / or

- the radial height shims lower than the edges and interposed between two consecutive slices on all or part of the ring circumference (these blocks will be described later in the present description), also with such a small axial clearance or zero being variable on this circumference (e.g. between 0 and 10 mm, preferably between 0.5 and 5 mm) provided between each spacer and the two consecutive slots that are adjacent to it.

however, that the connection interval separating it will be noted in the direction circonférentieile the two facing ends of said at least one holding belt and said integrating means for connecting and locking, is devoid of any slice and must extend a distance higher than circumferential backlash to access in good conditions to such means. This range may for example extend over a distance between 30 mm and 70 mm, preferably between 40 mm and 60 mm.

By "slices spaced apart" is meant in the present description such axial slots which do not meet this definition of contiguous slices over all or part of the ring circumference, and which are for example separated in pairs between them in the circumferential direction by a distance greater than 10 mm or even 20 mm. Indeed, it is not essential for the present invention to have such contiguous slices over all or part of the ring circumference.

"Total amount of consecutive gaps" below

7T.D / 2 according to the present invention, herein is meant that the Tr.Di inner circumference of the discontinuous annular structure formed by the ring (internal diameter Di at its mounting face, with Di substantially equal to the diameter D of the bottom rim) is predominantly occupied by the juxtaposed axial slices, resulting in that (with D - Di):

- the sum of all cireortférentiels consecutive spacings between the slices is less than TT.DI / 2 (ie less than half of his internal circumference of the ring), and therefore that

- the sum of circumferential thicknesses of all the slices is greater than TT.DÏ / 2 (ie greater than half of the inner circumference of the ring).

Advantageously, these ranges may be spaced apart by a total amount of consecutive spacing, measured at said mounting face, which is less than TT.D / 4 and even more preferably less than TT.D / 8 (which means that the Tr.Di inner circumference of the ring is occupied at least three-quarters or at least seven-eighths, respectively, by the edges juxtaposed).

Also advantageously, the slices may each, over all or part of said circumference of the ring, a circumferential thickness wafer measured in its lower mounting face or equal to TT.D / 25 or D / about 8, and still more

advantageously less than or equal to TT.D / 50 or D / 16 of (always with D ~ Di).

Note that these axial slices according to the invention which are connected without joints therebetween (ie without connecting element axis or swivel type, in particular similar to a fixing between consecutive segments) have the advantage of being easily carried and according to a cost of manufacturing, assembly and reduced assembly inside the mounted assembly. Indeed, a device according to the invention is advantageously, before its mounting inside the tire, in the form of a straight flat strip which is easy to pack and to handle. It is also conceivable that the device is shipped unassembled, namely in kit form.

In connection with the mounting of a device according to the invention on a monobioc rim, it is noted that some slices may not show lip or radially inner leg of wedging the rim well, unlike the device according to WO-A1 - 2008/132348, for example.

In general for the slices according to the invention: - they may each independently be made of:

* One or more materials such as elastomers (rubbers or thermoplastic elastomers) and / or plastics (such as thermoplastic and / or thermosetting) are not limited, for example by using a damping material at the face of the ring support, and possibly according to different manufacturing processes optionally combined to obtain the set of slices; and or

* In a single match (monobioc wafer) or in several parts assembled together (eg in at least two radially inner and outer portions which are each, independently from each other, based on one or more materials which are secured the one with another by mechanical or chemical means, preferably a flexible first material said above range and a second material said rigid and in any case more rigid than the first material, below the range) ; and or

- these portions may have the same or another thickness, measured in their mounting faces and / or identical or different profiles, with planar surfaces or not in their end faces and / or lateral.

It is further noted that these axial slices juxtaposed thickness (s) reduced (s) have the following advantages compared to existing support rings of split type or sectors:

Assembly / disassembly easier, with less damage to the tire risk, in that the lip of a slice leaves a sufficient space tire bead;

Possible movement of the tire bead from both sides of the ring during assembly;

Increased robustness to the assembly in the event of dimensional deviation with respect to the rim profile;

An almost continuous contact with the rim thanks to the large number of slices, which improves run flat performance;

Improved ventilation during runflat or materials used for the slices, which reduces the risk of overheating and thus softening of the ring and thus helps to improve the run-flat performance of the device; and

- Propagation of cracks limited in case of ballistic or other impacts, due to the juxtaposition of independent slices.

According to another characteristic of the invention, said wafers may be further threaded on at least one circumferential retaining annular link of said slices, which can then be crossed by said at least one link between two adjacent ends of link positioned opposite said ends belt, into at least a threading area for each slice that is distinct from said at least one bearing and which is located radially outside and / or radially inwardly and / or axially on the other said at least one litter.

Note that this threading wafers in the manner of a string of beads allows to connect them so that they remain axially aligned against each other during running.

In addition, the presence of at least one annular link facilitates the mounting of the run-flat device in the tire.

Advantageously, said at least one annular link may be selected from metal His links e.g. formed of stranded cable or not, textiles linkages formed, for example cords, the elastic cords for example formed of elastomeric rods and combinations of at least two said links.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, said at least one bearing of each of the slices is formed over all or part of said circumference:

-at the level of the belt ends by a radial recess extending from said support face and consisting of an axial end of a U-shaped groove or a lateral axial shoulder of each slice, and

- outside of the belt ends by a radially inner edge of a slot or through slot which is provided radially recessed from said support face and opening or not on at least one side face of each wafer.

According to a second embodiment of the invention, over all or part of said circumference, in and outside of said belt ends, said at least one bearing of each of the slots is formed on radially elastically deformable means which interconnect two slice portions radially inner and outer respectively.

According to another feature of the invention common to said first and second examples, the slices can be connected in pairs with each other, over all or part of iadite circumference by at least one shim which terminates radially recessed from said at least scope and against which are mounted circumferentially abutting the radially inner zones of two consecutive slices. In this case, said at least one wedge may advantageously receive one end of said at least one link and / or comprise a plurality of wedges which are interposed between the

slices in pairs adjacent and which are traversed by said at least one link outside the link ends.

It should be noted that if no shim is provided with Se ring, or the c aque annular link can be removed, once the retaining strap placement, preferably locked, in the tire. This reduces the weight of the mounted assembly.

Advantageously, over all or part of said circumference, the slots may each have a circonférentieile thickness which varies in an axial direction of the ring, for example with a staggered arrangement of side faces of the wafers according to maximum and minimum thicknesses alternately. This staggered arrangement provides better stability to the ring by blocking any rotation of the axial slices.

Also advantageously, over all or part of said circumference, its edges may each have a circonférentieile thickness which varies in a radial direction of the ring, for example, growing of said mounting face to said support face. This circonférentieile thickness variation which varies in a radial direction of the ring makes it possible to increase the surface area of ​​the support face.

Alternatively, all or part of said circumference, said slots are inclined obliquely from dune radially inner zone of each section relative to the substantially radiai plane of said radially inner zone.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, said mounting face of all or part of said slots is adapted to conform to an axial profile of said rim, the rim being integral with a circumferential rim well, all or part of said slices having timing means such as a lip or tab projecting axially at one side edge of each section which are adapted to wedge each wafer in said recess.

As indicated above, these clamping means at the ring mounting face may only be present in only a limited number of slices, which means that the remaining slots can be free of any lip or tab wedging in the rim well.

According to a second embodiment of the invention, said all or part mounting face of said slots is adapted to conform to a substantially flat axial profile of the bottom of the rim which is several blocks and ends in two axially inner rim flanges and externally, and all or part of the slots having an axial width, for example adapted to axially block by compression of the tire beads against said flanges.

A mounted assembly according to the invention for a motor vehicle comprises a wheel rim, a tire mounted against two rim flanges axially inner and outer and a run flat device mounted on the rim and to support the tire when running flat, which is as defined above. This set can be mounted as:

- the rim is integral with a circumferential rim well, said mounting surfaces of all or part of the slots being mounted in the hollow over the entire axial width of the latter, or

- the rim is several blocks and substantially flat bottom, the slices can block axially of the tire beads against the rim flanges.

Generally with reference to all of the above characteristics of the invention, it will be appreciated that said at least one support belt applied back from the ring support face does not interfere with the tire rolling flat and keeps the ring on the rim. The or each belt may be preferably metallic collar type, in particular in connection with a one-piece rim to rim well, and be more or less thick in the radial direction while being sufficiently flexible to be easily inserted inside the tire and substantially undeformable once locked vis-à-vis the forces transmitted during travel to oppose effectively the "centrifugation" of ring rolling in the inflated state.

In relation to a rim in a plurality of blocks, the or each belt may be of locking or not, being advantageously formed of a closed strap secured to tissue of said at least one bearing of each wafer (eg by adhesive or mechanical attachment) , or a metal rod fixed diameter, or of a reinforced rubber belt. Such belt allows to easily insert the ring inside the tire and is also designed to be virtually dimensionally stable vis-à-vis the efforts transmitted to the State inflated rolling.

As said connecting and locking means fitted to said at least one belt according to the invention for the adjustable clamping, they may be advantageously as described in the aforementioned document EP-A1-2 233 752, although other connectors or locking not be usable.

In accordance with EP-A1 2,233,752, these means may be provided with a locking member mounted integral with one end of the belt so as to occupy an unlocking position in which the member is disengaged from said means for the tightening and loosening of the belt, and a locking position in which the member engages with them so as to oppose the loosening. These means are able to close or at removing said ends from one another by a rotation applied to said means respectively in the direction of tightening or loosening of the belt, and this member is then adapted to s' resist rotation of these means in the locking position.

Other features, advantages and details of this invention appear on CD play from the following description of several embodiments of the invention given iilustratif and not limitation, the description being made with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

In the present description, the terms "axially inner" and "axially outer" refer respectively to the sides of the rim to be facing inwards and outside the vehicle, and "radially inner" and "radially outer", respectively in radial directions relative to the rim in approaching and moving away.

Figure 1 is an axial half-sectional view of a mounted assembly according to the first embodiment of the invention incorporating a wafer support ring according to the first example of the invention (the visible range that is outside the joined ends of the belt, not shown),

Figure 2 is a side perspective view of the device of Figure 1 showing the ring slots traversed by a belt closed by the locked connecting means of its ends,

Figure 3 is side view in perspective of a circumferential retaining annular link slices of the device of Figure 3, Figure 4 is a side perspective view of an exemplary clamping belt provided with connecting means to adjustable and lockable clamping used in Figure 3,

Figures 4 (a) and 4 (b) are side views and perspective of an exemplary clamping belt provided with non-adjustable clamping connection means and lockingly used in Figure 3, in the unlocked position in Figure 4 (a) and in the locked position in Figure 4 (b),

Figures 4 (c) and 4 (d) are side views and perspective of an example of positioning belt provided with lockable connecting moyenns used in Figure 3, the connecting means ensuring no clamping position unlatched being shown in Figure 4 (c) and the locked position in Figure 4 (d);

Figure 5 is a front view of a portion of a ring for use in a device according to the invention according to Figure 1 variants

Figure 6 is a partial schematic side view illustrating an example of contiguous mounting, on an integral rim or more blocks of two consecutive slices of a device according to the invention,

Figure 7 is a partial schematic side view showing another example of a joined assembly on a monobloc rim or more blocks of two consecutive slices of a device according to the invention,

Figure 8 is a partial schematic side view illustrating an example of spaced mounting, on an integral rim or more blocks of two consecutive slices of a device according to the invention,

Figure 9 is a top view in perspective of a slice according to said first example of the invention that is outside of the ends to be connected of the belt, similar to that seen in Figure 1, Figure 9a is a view of above and in perspective of an end portion according to said first example of the invention, provided at a connection end of the belt and can be combined with slots according to Figure 9,

Figure 10 is a top view in perspective of a slice according to a variant of said first embodiment of the invention that is outside of the ends to be connected of the belt,

Figure 10a is a top view and perspective view of an end portion according to a variant of said first embodiment of the invention, provided at a connection end of the belt and can be combined with slots according to Figure 10,

Figure 11 is a top view and perspective view of a wafer according to another variant of said first embodiment of the invention that is outside of the ends to be connected of the belt,

Figure 11a is a top view and perspective view of another end portion according to another variant of said first embodiment of the invention, provided at a connection end of the belt and can be combined with slots according to Figure 11

Figure 12 is a top view in perspective of a slice according to said second example of the invention that is outside of the ends to be connected of the belt,

Figure 13 is a top view in perspective of a slice according to a variant dudlt second example of the invention that is outside of the ends to be connected of the belt,

F 14 is a top view and perspective view of another wafer in accordance with said first embodiment of the invention that is outside of the ends to be connected from his belt and according to a variant of Figure 9, Figure 15 is a partial view top and perspective view of an arrangement according to the invention of contiguous slices having alternately increasing and decreasing thickness of an edge latérai to each other,

Its Figure 16 is a partial top view and perspective view of an arrangement according to the invention of contiguous slices having a thickness increasing from their mounting face in their support face,

Figure 17 is a partial view in section in a mid-circumferential plane of a ring according to the invention, showing the use of a single wedge between the two parts of ends of the ring at an opening an annular retaining His such as that of Figure 3, and Figure 18 is a partial view in section in a mid-circumferential plane of a ring according to the invention, showing the use according to Figure 7 of a multitude shims between consecutive segments of the ring held by such an annular link, excluding slices ends;

Figure 19 comprises Figure 19 (a) is a side view in perspective of a device according to the invention showing other possible shapes of slots, for obtaining contiguous slices and nested and Figure 19 ( b) shows one of the slices, in isolation, in the same view;

Figure 20, comprising Figures 20 (a) and 20 (b) illustrates an alternative design for contiguous and overlapping slices, respectively a side view and in perspective and in the same view, for a single wafer;

Figure 21 is a sectional view showing a device according to the invention wherein the distribution of mass is balanced by a removal of material on some areas;

Figure 22, comprising Figures 22 (a) and 22 (b) is a perspective view of an isolated area on which is provided one or more balance weights.

The wheel assembly 1 shown in Figure 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention comprises a wheel rim 2 asymmetric one-piece type comprising a circumferential rim well 3, a tire 4 mounted against axially inner and outer edges 2a, 2b of the rim 2, and a flat-running device 5 mounted in the recess 3 and to support the tire 4 after an inflation pressure drop inside the mounted assembly 1.

The rim 2 comprises rim seats axially internal and external 2c, 2d respectively for receiving the heels 4a, 4b of the tire 4, each rim seat 2c, 2d being delimited axially by one of the flanges 2a, 2b. In the example of Figure 1, the recess 3 is in the bottom 3a (of diameter D) delimited axially by two oblique walls 3b, 3c, and the axially outer wall 3c of the bottom 3a leads to the external seat 2d.

The device 5 of Figures 1-2 is adapted to be positioned on the bottom 3a of the trough 3, and it comprises:

- a support ring 6 comprising a plurality of n axial slices 7 (n = 63 in the example of Figure 2) juxtaposed in the circumferential direction contiguously at the edges 7a facing the radially inner mounting faces (of diameter Di) respective wafers 7, which are held together by a circumferential annular link 8 through the maintenance tef that of Figure 3, and

- an annular retaining band 9 for example metal adjustable clamp such as that of Figure 4 and preferably lockable via the connecting means 10 shown in Figure 4 and described in EP-A1-2 233 752.

Units 7 visible in Figure 2 each have the same unitary structure, the same carrying material, the same geometry and the same thickness, provided that the structure (one-piece or multi-part), the material or materials, geometry ( in particular the profile of the end faces 7b, 7c) and / or the thickness of the free 7 may vary in the radial direction and / or axial and circumferential or of the ring 6, as explained above.

All or part of the slots 7 of the ring 6 has (have) each into its mounting face 7a of the wedge means 11 for the wafer 7 in the rim well 3, consisting in this example of a circumferential lip 11 which is formed axially projecting from the outer side face 7d axiaiement of each wafer 7 and which forms an integral part. This calibration lip 11 has an axial width of the order of that of the bottom 3a of the trough 3, since it is designed to be applied on the bottom 3a and in contact with the outer side wall 3c of the recess 3.

Every 7 slices off end T of the ring 6 to be connected to each other, present in the example of Figures 1 and 2 a through lumen 12 for example rectangular section which opens on the front end faces 7b and 7c of rear the wafer 7 and which is formed radially between the mounting face 7a and the opposite radially outer 7e support the wafer 7 (substantially at the radial mid-height of the wafer 7 in this example) and axially centrally between the two faces side 7d and 7f of the wafer 7. a radially inner edge 12a of the slot 12 defines, for each slice 7 a bearing surface receiving the belt 9.

And in connection with Figures 2, 3 and 5, each slot 7 may optionally have radially between the mounting face 7a and the inner edge 12a of the slot 12 an axially central aperture 7A through which the annular His 8 holding wafers 7 which, in the example of Figure 3, is formed by a split ring (ie at the two ends 8a, 8b located opposite one another and defining an opening of the link 8 located radially at the same level on the circumference of the ring 6 that the connecting means 10 of the ends 9a, 9b of the belt 9), namely

assimilated to the shape of a rod of circular section. It could be otherwise since this annular link 8 may be in the form of a rod with square or rectangular section, or a strap or a flat blade

As seen in Figure 2, the wafers 7 are contiguous hardly spaced apart on the circumference of the ring 6 at their mounting face 7a (except for the interval between two end slices T connected by means 10, interval which may be 50 mm, for example to allow access in good conditions to these means 10) so that the total sum of consecutive measured distances between the wafers 7, T at this face 7a is significantly lower TT.D / 16, being even lower than TT.D / 32. In addition, its edges 7 each have a circumferential thickness measured in the mounting face 7a which in this example is less than or equal to TT.D / 60.

As illustrated in Figure 4, the belt 9 of the invention is formed by an annular band which the pair of ends 9a, 9b are connected to each other by the connecting means 10 and adjustable clamping verrouiilable by a locking member 10a pivotally mounted at one end 9b. These means 10 consist of a stud type 10b cylindrical rod terminating in two opposing threads in the direction guided in rotation in two transverse pins 10c, 10d attached to the ends 9a, 9b to be connected, under the control of an operating nut 10b rod integral in rotation with a central portion of the rod 10b.

The use of connecting means 10 and adjustable clamping verrouiilable for the belt 9 is not obligatory.

Indeed, there can be used connecting means 10 'and non-adjustable clamping verrouiilable, as illustrated in Figures 4 (a) and 4 (b) respectively in the unlocked position and the locked position. In these figures, the non-adjustable clamping and locking is effected by a tail piece type system 10 '. It comprises a locking member 10'a, 10'b having a first portion 10'a pivotally mounted on one 9b of the ends 9a, 9b of the belt 9 and a second portion 10'b, swivel mounted on the first part 10'a. The other end 9a of the belt is provided with a hook fixedly mounted on the belt 10'c, 10'b with which the second portion (organ 10 'is engageable to provide locking.

Alternatively, it is possible to use connecting means 10 'which ensure locking, without clamping. An example may be suitable one is plate-like system / pin, as shown in Figures 4 (c) and 4 (d ), respectively in unlocked position and the locked position. More specifically, it is then provided a plate 10 "is provided at its ends with openings for passing pins 10" b, 10 "c. The ends 9a, 9b of the belt 9 are arranged in the shape of loops for receiving firstly the plate 10 "a and the other the pins 10" b, 10 "c.

There is shown in Figure 5 various locations 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F usable are not limited to passing the link 8 through every 7 including:

- axially on either side of the axially central location 7A of Figure 2, two internal lateral locations radlalement 7B, 7C located radially between the mounting face 7a and the inner edge 12a of the light 12,

- axially on either side of the side edges 2b, 2c of the light 12, two radially intermediate lateral locations 7D, 7E located radially on the same median height as the light 12, and

- of axially centered lumen 12, a radially outer central location 7F radially located between the outer edge 12d of the light 12 and the seventh support face.

As an alternative to the contiguous juxtaposition of Figure 2 with an absence of axial play in the circumferential direction between consecutive slots 7, there is illustrated:

- à la figure 6 une juxtaposition également dite jointive, en ce sens que le jeu axial circonférentiel d entre tranches 7 consécutives (hors tranches d'extrémités T à raccorder ensemble par les moyens 10 est très faible, étant ici typiquement de l'ordre de 1 mm ;

- à la figure 7 une juxtaposition pouvant être également qualifiée de jointive, en ce sens que l'on interpose au moins une cale 13 de hauteur radiale réduite entre des zones radialement internes de tranches 7 deux à deux consécutives (la ou chaque cale 13 n'entravant pas la traversée des tranches 7 par la ou chaque ceinture 9 et pouvant être optionnellement traversée par le ou chaque lien annulaire de maintien 8), de sorte que le jeu axial circonférentiel d' entre la ou chaque cale 13 et les deux tranches 7 qu'elle sépare est également très faible (typiquement de l'ordre de 1 mm, hors tranches d'extrémités T à raccorder ensemble par les moyens 10) ; et

- à la figure 8 une juxtaposition non jointive mais espacée avec un espacement d" entre tranches 7 consécutives dans la direction circonférentieile pouvant être de l'ordre de 10 mm ou davantage.

On notera que ces figures 6-8 identifient schématiquement par des traits discontinus la traversée des tranches 7 consécutives, jointives (figures 6 et 7) ou non (figure 8) par au moins un lien annulaire de maintien 8 radialement interne et par au moins une ceinture 9 radialement externe par rapport à ce lien 8.

Les figures 9-9a, 10-10a, 11 -11 a illustrent trois géométries utilisables parmi d'autres pour les tranches 7 en dehors de celles situées aux extrémités de ceinture 9a, 9b à raccorder ensemble (tranches courantes 7 des figures 9, 10, 11 ), et pour les seules tranches d'extrémités T à raccorder (figures 9a, 10a, 1 a).

Current portion 7 of Figure 9 is similar to that of Figure 1, while the edges of the ends of FIG 9a in each distinguished by a radial clearance outside the scope 12a to allow mounting of means 10, so as to form from the support face 7 a U-shaped groove whose bottom 12a 'defines a recess (at the same radial height as the inner edge 2a of the light 12) on which are applied the two belt ends 9a, 9b to be connected.

Current portion 17 of FIG 0 present unlike Figure 9 a slot 22 laterally through-axially on the side face 17d of the outer portion 17, the slot 22 being formed

substantially radial mid-height of the wafer 17 in this example and being adapted to receive, by its radially inner edge 22a forming range, the belt 9 which is threaded through the side face 17d. In addition, the wafer 17 has a generally decreasing axial width of its 17th support face at its mounting face 17a (ie a generally trapezoidal profile for the end faces 17b, 17c), which is not substantially flat unlike that of Figure 9 but of rounded shape to its clamping lip 11 which defines only the radially inner portion of the wafer 1. As to the portions of the ends 17 'of Figure 10a they are distinguished from the wafer 17 in that their litters 22a' are formed by an axial shoulder which is formed at the same radial height as the 22a scope of the slot 22 and which extends at right angles to a radial portion 22b perpendicular to the support face 17 'of the wafer 17 (which and extended radially inwardly by a stair leading to épaufement 22a '). Figures 10 and 10a, one also notes the presence of a chamfer 17f, 17'f. This facilitates or allows the mounting of the ring on a narrow rim width without hindering the movement of tire beads and keeping a sufficiently broad support face. inside by a stair-step leading to épaufement 22a '). Figures 10 and 10a, one also notes the presence of a chamfer 17f, 17'f. This facilitates or allows the mounting of the ring on a narrow rim width without hindering the movement of tire beads and keeping a sufficiently broad support face. inside by a stair-step leading to épaufement 22a '). Figures 10 and 10a, one also notes the presence of a chamfer 17f, 17'f. This facilitates or allows the mounting of the ring on a narrow rim width without hindering the movement of tire beads and keeping a sufficiently broad support face.

Current portion 27 of Figure 11 has as that of Figure 9 an axially central lumen 32 located radially between the mounting face 27a and 27e support opposite and axially between the side faces 27d and 27f, but unlike the Figure 9:

- the light 32 has a very reduced radial height giving it the geometry of a slot forming a bearing surface 32a adapted to be traversed by the belt 9 in the gripping tightly, and

- current portion 27 consists of a mechanical assembly (e.g. by fitting the tenon and mortice type) or gluing or overmolding a radially outer portion 27A on a radially inner portion 27B, these portions 27A, 27B can be made or not of the same material or mixture of materials.

Note that it should be applied in advance the belt 9 on the scope 32a of the inner part 27B (which defines a radially inner edge 32a of the light 32) before assembling the outer part 27a on the inner part 27B equipped with belt 9.

As to the portions of the ends 27 'of Figure 11a, they can be for example similar to that of FIG 9a with, at the same radial height as the light 32, a bearing 32a' U-shaped in the groove formed from the side of support 27e 'and receiving the belt ends 9a, 9b of unobstructed manner in the radial direction to allow access to the means 10.

Current slices 37, 47 of Figures 12-13 illustrate the second example of the invention, with in both cases three parts 37A, 37B and 37C, 47C which are radially superposed and assembled one on the other (by assembly mechanical, for example by riveting, or chemically, for example by gluing or overmolding) and which comprise two parts radially inner rigid 37A, 47A and 37B externally, 47B respectively defining 37a mounting face, 47a and the face of 37th support 47 and a resilient intermediate portion 37C, 47C connecting them together in the manner of a deformable spring plate in the radial direction. The parts 37A, 37B and 37C, 47C are in these examples consist of blocks generally rectangular end faces and the intermediate portion 37C, 47C (preferably metal) rests on the parts 37A and 37B, 47A and 47B (the thicknesses of the parts 37A, 37B, 37C and 47A, 47B, 47C in the circumferential direction being identical or similar) to form at least an arc of circle between the portions 37A and 37B, 47A and 47B. In addition, the intermediate portion 37C, 47C form a receiving range 42a, 52a adapted to wedge axially belt 9 in an area radially innermost it presents. More precisely : 52a adapted to wedge axially belt 9 in an area radially innermost it presents. More precisely : 52a adapted to wedge axially belt 9 in an area radially innermost it presents. More precisely :

- the intermediate portion 37C of Figure 12 is substantially C-shaped whose two axial branches 37ca parallel 37Cb which are attached to the parts 37A, 37B are interconnected by a connecting portion 37 ° C in an arc, with the branch which is provided with internal scope

42a of axial locking of the belt 9, and

- the intermediate portion 47C of FIG 13 is shaped ring whose axis of symmetry is perpendicular to the end faces of the parts 47A and 47B and which is integral with the latter a tangentially by radially inner and outer zones the ring, with the outer face of the inner area 52a is provided with the range of axial locking of the belt 9.

It should be noted that for the embodiments of Figures 12 and 13, the flexibility of the slots in the radial direction can be obtained by varying the geometry of the slices. This can allow, incidentally, reduce the weight of i'ensemble mounted.

The wafer 57 shown in Figure 14 illustrates a variant of Figure 9 used for common slices 57 outside of those at the belt ends 9a, 9b to be connected together. This portion 57 which is also provided with a lumen 12 is essentially distinguished from that of Figure 9, in that it is inclined obliquely (at an acute angle, for example between 5 ° and 30 °) from a radially inner zone of the wafer 57 comprising the clamping lip 11, relative to the substantially radial plane of the inner region. This inclination allows a lateral contact between two adjacent slices.

Current slices 67 contiguous shown in Figure 15 illustrate a staggered arrangement of the side faces 67d slices, 67f cut the end faces 67b, 67c are similar to those of the wafer 7 in Figure 9, the fact that two slices 67 consecutive according to Figure 15 are different geometries since they have in the circumferential direction respectively a thickness that increases axially inwards and which grows axially outwardly. It is understood that this alternating arrangement makes it possible to juxtapose the wafers 67 in axial alignment around the rim 2.

Current contiguous slices 77 shown in Figure 16 illustrate one possible arrangement for common slices 77 identical to each other similar to that of Figure 9, but which have in circumferential direction a thickness which increases radially outwardly in this example continuously from the mounting face 77a to the supporting face 77 of each wafer 77. It can be seen that the edges 77 are contiguous and all their respective radial heights.

FIG 17 shows current 87 contiguous slices and two slices of ends 87 'of a ring 6' according to an embodiment of the invention, characterized by the insertion of a wedge 13 'between the edges of ends 87 ', with the shim 13' through which one of the two ends 8a of an annular holding link 8 such as that of Figure 3. It is seen that the wedge 13 has its radially inner surface aligned with the faces 87a mounting respective wafers 87, 87 ', and has its radially outer face radially recessed from the location at half height of the slices 87, 87' which is adapted to be crossed by the or each clamping band 9 locked between the edges of ends 87 '.

Note that the wedge 13 'allows to oppose the sliding of the ends of slots 87' when running flat, and thus avoid a type of propagation of "domino" effect on other slices 87.

Figure 18 shows a variant of Figure 17 the current slices 97 (Le. Slices off ends) also joined via a plurality of shims 13 in a ring 6 ", according to the diagram of Figure 7. each wedge 13 has a radial height reduced between radially inner zones slices row 97, and is only traversed by the or each annular retaining link 8 so as not to hinder the crossing of the wafers 97 by the or each tensioning belt 9 radially external to the link 8.

Note that the spacers 13 allow to optimize the mutual contact between the wafers 97.

In the above description, the rim 2 is asymmetric wheel, including a rim diameter D. It could nevertheless provide a flat rim. Also in this case, we can define a rim base for the flat rim.

Furthermore, it should be noted that with a flat rim, it may be possible not to provide the clamping function to the belt 9. In fact, the belt 9 can overcome the clamping components, fixed or adjustable, keeping only its general function of holding, with a lock.

In general and with reference to all the examples just described (the references of Figure 9 is reproduced below only for simplicity purposes), the mounting of a device 5 according to the invention within a wheel assembly 1 comprises for example the steps (before inflation and balancing of the tire 4):

- assembly of a linear tape (ie piate not formed into ring 6) comprising all current slices 7 and ends 7 'contiguously juxtaposed or spaced apart, which are traversed by said at least one support belt 9 and optionally said at least one annular holding link 8 with optional interposition of one or more shims 13 or 13 ',

- shaping the strip into a ring shape equipped 6 of the belt 9 in the unclamped position inside the tire 4,

- passing on the rim 2 with a heel 4a of the tire 4 containing the ring 6,

- passing on the rim 2 of the ring 6 with the belt 9, - passing the second heel 4b of the tire 4 to the rim 2 to complete the assembly.

When the holding belt provides for a clamping passage on the rim 2 of the ring 6 with the belt is carried out with a loose belt. Then, there is provided a clamping ring 6 against the rim by the belt, via the verrouiliables connecting means.

A special case of contiguous sectors is shown in Figures 19 (a) and 9 (b) and, according to an alternative design, in Figures 20 (a) and 20 (b).

On all of these figures, it offers sectors 37, 37 '; 370, 370 'shaped to an overlap between two consecutive sectors. Thus, said slots 37, 37 '; 370, 370 ', contiguous, are interconnected in pairs by nesting.

To understand the particular form of an area 37 (Figure 19 (b)), can be described in comparison to the area 7 of Figure 5. Between these Figures 9 (b) and Figure 5, the same references denote identical elements and are therefore not described in detail. On an end face 7b (front), the sector 37 has an upper protrusion 37a and lower protrusion 37b, each formed protruding from the end face 7b. In this case, each protrusion is in the shape of a parallelepiped. Always on this end face 7b, the two protrusions 37a, 37b are separated by an opening 37d facing the opening 12. These openings 37d, 12 make it possible to pass the retaining strap, whose design can be chosen indifferently according to the different variants described above. Furthermore, on the other end face 7c (rear), opposite the first end face 7b, there is provided an opening 37c extending between the opposite radially inner mounting 7a, adapted to be mounted on said rim and the opposite radially outer support 7, adapted to support the tire when running flat.

As can be seen in Figure 19 (a), the opening 37c has dimensions adapted to receive the projections 37'a of a sector 37 'attached. In this case, the opening 37c therefore also has a rectangular shape.

Such a design (nesting) facilitates mounting between sectors by providing a guide. Moreover, although the support belt is sufficient to maintain the sectors in position, the interlocking part in limiting the movements from one sector to another in the axial direction (axis of the wheel) and therefore implies greater stability to an axial force. It further provides a better distribution of the load on the edges in contact with the tire. Finally, it allows a large reduction in vibration lifts with a continuity of the tread.

In Figures 20 (a) and 20 (b), a variation is shown in the design proposed in Figures 19 (a) and 19 (b), alternatively still allowing an overlap between two consecutive sectors.

In comparison to Figures 19 (a) and 19 (b), it is noted that Îa form of protuberances 370a, 370D of a sector 370 is different, and consequently the opening 370c, adapted to receive protrusions 370a 'of another sector 370 ', also has a different shape. The opening 370D provided between the two projections 370a, 370b to pass the retaining strap may be identical to that of the opening 37d. Everything else is the same.

In this case, the projections 370a, 370b have a shape whose section is T. This allows.

Finally, it should be noted that advantageously, sectors, and regardless of the proposed design for a sector, will be chosen to ensure, throughout the run-flat device, a mass distribution that is balanced.

Indeed and for example, if one refers to the overview in Figure 2, the presence of connecting and locking means 10, 10 ', 10 "involves a mass removal, in sectors, to allow access to these locking means. on the contrary, the presence of the connecting and locking means 10, 10 ', 10 "involves a local adding mass, which does not necessarily compensate for the removal of mass carried at the sectors.

In such a case, the mass of piat-running device is not distributed in a balanced manner, which generates a slight unbalance effect can be detrimental.

Although this light unbalance effect may be quite acceptable, it is still advantageous to eliminate it. Also, it is advantageous for the run-flat device has a balanced weight distribution.

For this, one can envisage several solutions.

A first solution is to achieve a mass removal, at a zone Z1 located sectors, the run-flat device so diametrically opposite the zone Z2 having said means for connecting and locking 10. In practice can be for example provided on the zone Z2, sectors 27 'as shown in Figure 11a and, outside the areas 21 and Z2, sectors 7 as shown in figures 5 or 9.

This is the solution which is shown in Figure 21. Indeed, at the zone Z2, the addition of connection means of mass and lock 10 does not usually compensate for the loss of mass of the sectors (e.g. type shown in FIG 11a) to allow access to these connecting and locking means 10.

A second solution is for example to add weights M of the areas of the zone 72 to precisely locally compensate for their loss of mass with respect to areas that are out of the zone Z2. In this case, it is not necessary to implement a zone

WITH

This is what is shown in two examples of implementation, in Figures 22 (a) and 22 (b).

More specifically, in Figure 22 (a) was shown in a perspective view a 27 sector ", comparable to the area 27 'of Figure 11a, but having a weight M. This allows feeder M to burden the sector 27 "so that its mass is identical to that of an area 7 as shown in Figure 5 or Figure 11 and used out of the zone Z2.

Similarly, Sa Figure 22 (b) was shown in a perspective view a 27 sector " ', comparable to the area 27' of Figure 11a, but having two feeder M1, M2. These weights M1, M2 allow burdening the sector 27 " 'so that its mass is identical to that of an area 7 as shown in Figure 5 or Figure 11 and used out of the zone 22.

A third alternative (not shown) is to provide this balancing mass within the retaining strap.

CLAIMS

1, run flat device (5) for a mounted assembly (1) of a motor vehicle comprising a wheel rim (2) having a rim (3a) of diameter D and a tire (4) mounted on the rim, the device being adapted to support tire running flat and you including:

- a support ring (6, 6 ', 6 ") comprising a plurality of axial slots (7 and 7', 17 and 17 ', 27 and 27', 37, 47, 57, 67, 77, 87 and 87 ' , 97) which are juxtaposed on a circumference of the ring and which define a mounting face (7a, 17a, 27a, 37a, 47a) radially inner adapted to be mounted on said rim base and a radially outer support surface ( 7th, 17th and 17th ', 27th, 37th, 47th, 77th) adapted to support the tire when running flat, each of said slots having at least one bearing surface (12a, 22a and 22a', 32a and 32a ', 42a, 52a) located radially between said mounting face and said support face, and

- at least one support belt (9) which encloses the ring on said circumference so as to maintain it substantially in contact with said rim base and which passes through Iesdites slices being applied on said at least one bearing each ,

characterized in that Iesdites slices are not hinged to each other and are contiguous or spaced apart about said circumference by a total amount of consecutive spacing measured between Iesdites slices at said mounting face, which is less than TT.D / 2.

2. Device (5) according to claim 1, characterized in that Iesdites edges (7 and 7 \ 17 and 17 ', 27 and 27', 37, 47, 57, 67, 77, 87 and 87 ', 97) have each, over all or part of said circumference, a portion of circumferential thickness measured in said mounting face (7a, 17a, 27a, 37a, 47a) which is less than or equal to TT.D / 25.

3. Device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said at least one support belt (9) has two belt ends (9a, 9b) spaced apart and connected to one another by means of connecting and locking (10, 10 ', 10 ") adapted to lock said at least one belt, this locking can provide an advantageously adjustable clamping of said edges (7 and 7', 17 and 17 ', 27 and 27', 37, 47, 57, 67, 77, 87 and 87 ', 97).

4. Device (5) according to claim 3, characterized in that said slots (7 and 7 ', 87 and 87', 97) further are strung on at least one circumferential annular link maintenance (8) of said slices, which are traversed by said at least one link between two adjacent ends of connection (8a, 8b) positioned opposite said belt ends (9a, 9b), at least a threading area for each slice that is distinct from said at least a bearing surface (12a) and which is located radially outside and / or radially inwardly and / or axially on either side of said at least one litter.

5. Device (5) according to claim 4, characterized in that said at least one annular link (8) is selected from metal links for example formed of stranded cable or not, textiles linkages formed, for example cords, links elastic for example, formed of elastomeric rods and combinations of at least two said links.

6. Device (5) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that on all or part of said circumference, said at least one bearing surface (12a, 22a and 22a ', 32a and 32a') of each of said slots (7 and 7 ', 17 and 17', 27 and 27 ', 57, 67, 77) is formed:

- at said belt ends (9a, 9b), by a radial recess extending from said support surface (7e ', 17e', 27e ') and consisting of an axial base (12a', 32a ' ) of a U-shaped groove or a lateral axial épauiement (22a ') of each slice, and

- outside said belt ends by a radially inner edge (12a, 22a, 32a) of light or through slit (12, 22, 32) which is provided radially recessed from said support surface (7e, 17e, 27e) and which opens or not on at least one side face (7d, 1d, 27d) of each slice.

7. Device (5) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that on all or part of said circumference, in and outside of said belt ends (9a, 9b), said at least one bearing (42a, 52a ) of each of said wafers (37, 47) is formed on resilient means (37C, 47C) radially deformable which interconnect two slice portions respectively radially inner (37A, 47A) and 37B externally, 47B).

8. Device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on all or part of said circumference, said wafers (67) each have a circumferential thickness which varies in an axial direction of panel (6), for example with a staggered arrangement of side surfaces (67d and 67e) of said wafers according to maximum and minimum thicknesses alternately.

9. Device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on all or part of said circumference, said wafers (77) each have a circumferential thickness which varies in a radial direction of the ring (6), e.g. growing said mounting face (77a) to said support face (77).

10. Device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all or part of said circumference, said wafers (57) are inclined obliquely from a radially inner region of each wafer (57), by relative to the substantially radial plane of said radially inner zone.

1 1. A device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said mounting face (7a, 17a, 27a, 37a, 47a) of all or part of said edges (7 and 7 ', 17 and 17', 27 and 27 ', 37, 47, 57, 67, 77, 87 and 87', 97) is adapted to conform to an axial profile of said bottom (3a) of rim (2), the rim being integral with rim well (3) circumferential, all or some of said slots having wedging means (11) such as a lip or tab projecting axially at one side edge (7d, 17d, 27d, 67d) of each section which are adapted to calibrate every in said hollow.

12. Device (5) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that said mounting face (7a, 17a, 27a, 37a, 47a) of all or part of said edges (7 and T, 17 and 17 ', 27 and 27 ', 37, 47, 57, 67, 77, 87 and 87', 97) is adapted to conform to a substantially flat axial profile of said rim base (3a), the rim (2) being a plurality of blocks and ending by two flanges axially inner and outer rim, and all or part of said slices having an axial width, for example adapted to axially block by compressing the lugs (4a, 4b) of the tire (4) against said rim flanges.

13. Device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said wafers (37, 37 '; 370, 370'), joined, are interconnected in pairs by nesting.

14. Device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a balanced weight distribution.

15. Device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said slots (7, 87 and 87 ', 97) are connected in pairs with each other, over all or part of said circumference, by at least one shim ( 13, 13 ') which terminates radially recessed from said at least one

range (12a) and against which are mounted circumferentially abutting the radially inner zones of said two consecutive segments.

16. Device (5) according to claim 4 or 5 and according to claim 15, characterized in that said at least one shim (13 ') receives said one end (8a) of said at least one link (8) and / or comprises a plurality of shims (13 ') interposed between said slots (7, 87 and 87', 97) in pairs adjacent and traversed by said at least one link outside of said link ends (8a, 8b).

17. mounted assembly (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a wheel rim (2), a tire (4) mounted axially against two inner rim flanges (2a) and outer (2b) and a run-flat device (5 ) mounted on the rim and to support the tire when running flat, characterized in that the apparatus is as defined in any preceding claim.

18. mounted assembly (1) according to claim 17 wherein the rim (2) is integral to the rim well (3) circumferential, characterized in that said mounting faces (7a, 1a, 27a, 37a, 47a) of all or part of said edges (7 and T, 17 and 17 ', 27 and 27', 37, 47, 57, 67, 77, 87 and 87 ', 97) are mounted in said rim well over the entire axial iargeur of this last.

19. A mounted assembly (1) according to claim 17 wherein the rim (2) is a plurality of blocks and substantially flat bottom, characterized in that said slots (7 and 7 ', 17 and 17', 27 and 27 ', 37, 47, 57, 67, 77, 87 and 87 ', 97) axially lock the beads (4a, 4b) of the tire (4) against lesdrts rim flanges (2a, 2b).