Tire Inflation Patents (Class 141/38)
  • Publication number: 20120305128
    Abstract: A sealing tube is wrapped around the rim and inflated such as to seal the gap between tire and rim if the seal between the tire bead and rim has lost its integrity. After this, the tire can be inflated to specified pressure at a slow rate using a portable compressor. The repair can be done at roadside on any vehicle using inflatable tires usually without demounting the wheel or even jacking up the defective wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Patrick Clancy
  • Publication number: 20120298255
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cap unit wherein safety is increased by preventing a reversed flow of a puncture-sealing agent. A cap main body (33) comprises an air flow passage (31) consisting of a vertical flow passage (31A) extending downward from an air passage upper opening (31a), a lateral flow passage (31B) laterally extending from an air intake port (31b), and a connecting flow passage (31C) connecting therebetween. The air flow passage (31) is provided with a reversed flow preventing device (22). The cap main body (33) is provided with a vertical hole (40) consisting of first to fourth vertical holes (40A to 40D) which have inner diameters increasing downwardly from the upper end in a stepwise manner, and the first to third vertical holes (40A to 40C) form the vertical flow passage (31A).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yukio Nakao
  • Publication number: 20120285581
    Abstract: A device (1) for effecting automatic nitrogen filling, or nitrogen-for-air substitution, for the simultaneous inflation/deflation of a plurality of vehicle tyres, comprising multiple controllers (17) corresponding to the number of tyres to be inflated/deflated, each having an individual display (8), a pressure sensor (9), an inflation valve (4) and a deflation valve (11), whereby multiple vehicle tyres may be inflated/deflated simultaneously, with user input interfaces (10) for pressure setting adjustments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Mark Christopher McCaughey
  • Patent number: 8302636
    Abstract: Provided is a tire sealant liquid container that accommodates a tire sealant liquid, and that includes on the lower side: an air supply hose guiding therein a compressed air outputted by a compressor; and a tire sealant liquid injection hose guiding the tire sealant liquid into a tire. Part of the outer surface of a container body is provided with a holder so that the air supply hose can be arranged to partially pass above a liquid level (7a) of the tire sealant liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takumi Sekiguchi
  • Patent number: 8297321
    Abstract: A sealing and inflating assembly includes an air compressor for generating a pressurized air, a tire repairing container for receiving a sealing preparation having a mouth opening, an outlet piece attached to the mouth opening of the container and having an entrance for coupling to the air compressor and having an inlet conduit for guiding the pressurized air to flow into the container, and having an inlet conduit for allowing the sealing preparation to flow out of the outlet piece, a pipe having one end coupled to the inlet conduit of the outlet piece, and a check valve device attached to the pipe for controlling the pressurized air to flow into the container, and for preventing the sealing preparation from flowing into the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Wen San Chou
  • Patent number: 8276624
    Abstract: A temporary mobility kit directed to a release arrangement for selectively releasing a sealant bottle from the base of the kit is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kimberly Ann Steele, Darryl L. Jones, Yingchao Guan
  • Patent number: 8251106
    Abstract: A unit, for repairing and inflating an inflatable article, defines a volume for a sealing fluid; an inlet for compressed air; and an outlet connected fluidically to the inlet via the volume to inject the sealing fluid into the inflatable article by means of the compressed air. More specifically, the inlet is connected by releasable fluidic connecting means to a fluidic outlet port of a pneumatic circuit of a vehicle having a compressed-air source and at least one pneumatic actuator connected to the compressed-air source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Tek Global S.R.L.
    Inventor: Sergio Lolli
  • Patent number: 8251105
    Abstract: A kit for repairing and inflating inflatable articles has a compressor unit for producing compressed air; a container containing sealing fluid injectable into the inflatable article by means of a stream of compressed air from the compressor unit; a fluid line designed to connect the compressor unit to the inflatable article; and a sensor for determining a connection status to the inflatable article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Tek Global S.R.L.
    Inventors: Sergio Lolli, Maurizio Marini
  • Patent number: 8245737
    Abstract: In a filling system for sealing and inflating tires, comprising at least one pressure source, in particular a compressor, and at least one container for receiving tire sealant, the container for receiving tire sealant is to be of tire-like design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Stehle
  • Patent number: 8205645
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for sealing of a damaged inflatable article, the apparatus including a container (1) for a sealant compound or composition, the container including at least one inlet means (4) which is releasably attachable to a source of pressurized air/gas, an extraction assembly (10 associated with the container (1), the extraction assembly (10 including an extraction unit having at least one outlet means (18) to be releasably coupled with or connected to the article and means (30) to be disposed within the container (1) and actuatable, upon supply of pressurized air/fluid/gas to the container (1) to allow for controlled dispensing of the sealant compound or composition from the container (1) via the extraction unit (10) to the article to be sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Trydel Research Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Terence Dowel
  • Patent number: 8201586
    Abstract: To prevent a burr, produced from the joint portion by welding between a liquid agent container and an injection unit, from interfering with a boring member inserted into a jig communication passage when the boring member is inserted into the jig communication passage to prevent the obstruction of the piercing action through a sealing member by the edge of the boring member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventors: Masaki Yoshida, Ryuji Izumoto, Shinichi Iwasaki, Rieko Iwasaki, legal representative
  • Patent number: 8196615
    Abstract: A device and method of using a liquid/air pressure testing tool to assist in testing and repairing liquid-filled agricultural tires is herein disclosed. The device provides a valving arrangement to allow alternating fluid transfer and air backfilling of a fluid-filled agricultural tire. The device utilizes quick-disconnect fittings providing quick in-line installation therebetween a fluid pump and a fluid filled tire. The device provides an inline ball valve and an isolation valve, thereby providing isolation of a pumping source and an air back-filling means, respectively. During fluid filling of a tire, the isolation valve allows monitoring of internal tire pressure using a common pressure gauge without removing the device or disconnecting any attached hoses. The device thus eliminates repeated steps when testing or repairing large fluid-filled tires as used on farm tractors and other agricultural machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Jim Browarny
  • Patent number: 8196616
    Abstract: A portable device for delivering nitrogen to multiple tires includes a gas source and supply line connected to a controller. The device also includes a gas delivery line comprising a manifold with a plurality of outlets in fluid communication with each other. A gas delivery line is operably connected to the controller and a plurality of extension lines with engagement chucks are operably connected to the outlets. The controller controls the supply of gas to the gas delivery line and controls a relief valve for venting the gas delivery line. The device also includes a sensor and a processor connected the controller and sensor which accepts user inputs. The controller, manifold, and processor are affixed to a stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Kreska Technologies
    Inventor: Jay Lighter
  • Publication number: 20120138190
    Abstract: An inflation work station for inflating a tire-wheel assembly including a tire mounted to a wheel is disclosed. The inflation work station includes an inflation probe including a female portion and a male portion. The inflation work station further includes a movement actuator connected to a controller and the inflation probe. The movement actuator imparts movement to the male portion of the inflation probe to result in the online/offline orientation of the at least one inflation probe. The inflation workstation includes pressurized fluid source connected to the inflation probe by way of a valve to permit or deny communication of a pressurized fluid through the inflation probe to a cavity formed by the tire-wheel assembly for inflating the tire-wheel assembly. A method is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: Android Industries LLC
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Lawson, Robert Reece
  • Publication number: 20120138189
    Abstract: The Tire Inflator Tool (T.I.T.) is used to inflate air filled tires or devices to a constant and precise PSI automatically. The device is preset to a certain pressure such as 35 psi used almost exclusively in automobile tires and bicycle tires. T.I.T. can also be used for other psi recommendations by changing the spring specifications making the T.I.T. application unlimited in the use of air inflated tires or devices. T.I.T. has a moulded body with three intersecting outlets. On one outlet It has a tire valve stem that is used to attach the air pump or compressed air hose to. On the second outlet it has a hose with a standard nozzle used to attach to the valve stem of the tire or device your filling with air. The third outlet has a spring loaded pressure release valve that is opened automatically when extra air pressure is achieved then closes automatically to a preset and constant maintained pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Shawn Paul Lunn
  • Patent number: 8191586
    Abstract: A device and method for tire air pressure maintenance with a compressor. The device includes a manifold having an input from the compressor and an output, and wherein the output is in pressure communication with the tire and an air chuck for clamping onto the tires, wherein the air chuck is in pressure communication with the manifold. The device also comprises an air pressure sensor, operatively associated with the manifold, for monitoring changes of pressure within the manifold and generating a data signal. A processor, operatively associated with the manifold, for processing changes in pressure is included, and wherein the processor receives the data signal. The device further includes a bleeder line operatively attached to the manifold, and an actuator valve operatively associated with the bleeder line, and wherein the actuator valve is operatively attached to the processor, and wherein the processor is capable of generating a low pressure command signal to open the actuator valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Lydi, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Keith Huval, Kirk Ryan Landry
  • Patent number: 8181676
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to temporary mobility kits that repair punctured tires. Some embodiments of the kit include an air compressor; a sealant assembly selectively connected to the pump; a sealant hose in the sealant assembly, configured to connect the air compressor to a tire valve; and a first circuit configured to assess a connection condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kimberly Ann Steele, Yingchao Guan, Darryl L. Jones, Zhi Qiang He, Sergey Maryanovsky
  • Patent number: 8146622
    Abstract: A temporary mobility kit to minimize or prevent the inadvertent outflow of tire sealant is provided. The temporary mobility kit includes a switch-inflator assembly and a removable sealant assembly. The switch-inflator assembly includes an air inflator and an associated hose for inflating a tire. The switch-inflator assembly further includes a diverter switch, a power-on, power-off switch, and an air pressure gauge. The diverter switch is a user-operated switch which moves an associated diverter valve between an air inflation function and a sealing function. The sealant assembly includes a sealant hose having a sealant tire valve connector. Electrical wires are provided in operative association with the sealant hose and electrically connect the sealant tire valve connector and the sealant assembly. A circuit arrangement is provided which prevents the inadvertent outflow of tire sealant through a logic arrangement which includes a reset circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Yingchao Guan, Kimberly Ann Steele, Darryl L. Jones, Zhi Qiang He, Sergey Maryanovsky
  • Publication number: 20120060970
    Abstract: A tool for filling a tire with a gas is provided. The tool includes: an air chuck; a shaft connected to the air chuck; a rim hook connected to the shaft; and a spring located between the shaft and the rim hook. A method of filling a tire is also provided. The method may include: connecting an air chuck to a valve stem; attaching a hook and spring assembly attached to the air chuck to a rim associated with the tire to be filled; and flowing a fluid through, the air chuck and into the valve stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: SPX Corporation
    Inventor: Michael R. White
  • Publication number: 20120037267
    Abstract: A sealing and pump-up device capable of suppressing sealing agent contained in a sealing agent container body from leaking and preventing damage to a casing body even if an operator mistakenly attempts to remove the sealing agent container body. A connection body 70 is retained to a seal opening device 60 by fitting force between first claws 94A and a leg portion 36 and between second claws 96A and the leg portion 36. An operator might conceivably mistakenly attempt to remove a liquid agent container 18 from the seal opening device 60. However, the fixing force of the screw 128 in the circular hole 122 is determined by such factors as the shape of each member so as to be weaker than the sum of the fitting force (retaining force) between the first claws 94A and the leg portion 36 and the fitting force (retaining force) between the second claws 96A and the leg portion 36.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Senno, Yuji Takeda
  • Patent number: 8096328
    Abstract: A tire inflation apparatus for inflating a tire mounted on a rim comprises an inflation head mounted to a moveable inflation shaft of a head position cylinder and an assist cylinder mounted to a frame member, with the frame member and assist cylinder positioned above the inflation location. The assist cylinder includes a moveable assist shaft operatively connected to the inflation shaft by a moveable cross member whereby the head position cylinder and assist cylinder cooperatively operate to selectively position the inflation head. The inflation head is positioned in a retracted position by vertical upward extension of the assist shaft and positioned in a tire engaging position by vertical downward retraction of the assist shaft. A fluid passage in the inflation shaft may deliver pressurized gas into a tire inflation cavity of the inflation head for inflating a tire when the inflation head is sealed against the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Burke E. Porter Machinery Co.
    Inventor: Mark S. Hoenke
  • Patent number: 8091590
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a nitrogen tire inflation and deflation system and associated usage methods. In one exemplary embodiment, the system includes a dispenser and a nitrogen storage device along with an associated usage method. In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a decommissioned pay phone is converted into an air or nitrogen dispenser. The conversion utilizes the form-factor and payment component of the pay phone with the additional of parts to regulate air flow. Advantageously, this provides an environmental solution to waste disposal of decommissioned pay phones. The air/nitrogen dispenser of the present disclosure can be placed at gasoline stations, convenience stores, car washes, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Samuel S. Graham
  • Publication number: 20120000573
    Abstract: A sealing and inflating assembly includes an air compressor for generating a pressurized air, a tire repairing container for receiving a sealing preparation having a mouth opening, an outlet piece attached to the mouth opening of the container for guiding the pressurized air to flow into the container, and having an inlet conduit for allowing the sealing preparation to flow out of the outlet piece, a pipe coupled to the inlet conduit of the outlet piece for directing and guiding the pressurized air to flow into an upper space of the container without flowing through the sealing preparation when the container is disposed upside down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventor: Wen San Chou
  • Publication number: 20120000572
    Abstract: A sealing and inflating assembly includes an air compressor for generating a pressurized air, a tire repairing container for receiving a sealing preparation having a mouth opening, an outlet piece attached to the mouth opening of the container and having an entrance for coupling to the air compressor and having an inlet conduit for guiding the pressurized air to flow into the container, and having an inlet conduit for allowing the sealing preparation to flow out of the outlet piece, a pipe having one end coupled to the inlet conduit of the outlet piece, and a check valve device attached to the pipe for controlling the pressurized air to flow into the container, and for preventing the sealing preparation from flowing into the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventor: Wen San Chou
  • Publication number: 20110284124
    Abstract: A high-pressure inflation pump includes a head, a nozzle, a piercing member, and a resilient member. The head includes a compartment, a passageway, and a threaded section. The piercing member includes a base, a piercing portion, and an air guiding hole. The piercing portion includes an annular abutting shoulder for pressing against an end face of a threaded end of a high-pressure gas container engaged with the threaded section of the head, providing an airtight state. The resilient member includes a support end, a pressing end, and a chamber. The piercing member is received and positioned in the chamber without blocking flow of gas in the high-pressure gas container into the air guiding hole, allowing rapid inflation of a tire engaged with the nozzle and allowing the high-pressure gas container to be used many times to save resources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventors: Ying-Che Huang, Chun-Ming Huang
  • Publication number: 20110277877
    Abstract: In a device (P) for delivering a gas out of a pressure chamber (5), in particular into a container (17) for dispensing a sealant (15) from said container into a tire (18) of a vehicle and/or for inflating the tire, wherein a plunger (4) is arranged to be oscillatingly movable in the pressure chamber, a gasket (20) is associated with the plunger and changes the distance thereof from a pressure chamber wall (28) when there is a change in the direction of movement of the plunger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Stehle
  • Publication number: 20110265909
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for filling air tires, particularly bicycle tires, with a tire sealing fluid through the valves of the tires, wherein the device is configured as an adapter set (1) having a connector (3) for the tire fluid, and having multiple individual parts (10) which can be inserted into one another, and onto the valves by means of inserting, clipping, and/or screwing, which can be varied with respect to one another depending on the valve type, such as Dunlop valves, quick valves (8), or Sclaverand valves (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Stehle
  • Publication number: 20110232802
    Abstract: A filling pistol for the filling under pressure of an object essentially with nitrogen. The filling pistol has a housing with an inlet opening connectable to an air source, such as an air compressor, to supply air to the pistol. A separation device is incorporated downstream of and connected to the inlet opening to obtain essentially nitrogen-rich gas. An outlet opening is connected to the separation device and is connectable to the object to supply nitrogen-rich air from the filling pistol to the object. The separation device is provided between the air inlet and the nitrogen outlet of an exchangeable separation cartridge. An operating element sets the filling pistol to an operating condition to fill the object with nitrogen-rich air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Barry Dallinga, Johannes Henricus Antonius Marie Kamp
  • Patent number: 8020588
    Abstract: A tire repair solution can includes a body and a cap closed on the body. The cap is provided with an intake, an outlet, and a guide tube extending from the underside of an intermediate portion into the body. Then an exterior tube is connected with the intake and also with an air compressor. A one-way air valve is fitted in the intake, and the guide tube has a through hole in its wall, and a slide block is fitted on the through hole to close it up. The outlet has a back-pressure valve fitted inside, and is connected with a connect tube for connecting with a joint to be connected with an air valve of a tire. Then the tire repair solution can is possible to be used in a normal position and in an inverted position, convenient to operate and saving time and labor largely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Min-Hsieng Wang
  • Patent number: 8016002
    Abstract: A sealing/pump-up device for tire that not only ensures the storability of sealing agent but also realizes rapid supply of sealing agent into a pneumatic tire. By insertion of insert part (60A) of jig (60) in jig insertion aperture (42) of sealing device (10), aluminum seal (30) is burst through by means of boring member (50) to thereby drive the same in the container. As the distal end of the insert part (60A) locates in the vicinity of upper wall surface within liquid agent container (18), a compressor unit is operated to thereby supply compressed air into the liquid agent container (18). As the end portion of first passage (62) provided in the jig (60) lies in a position superior to the liquid surface of sealing agent (32), the compressed air realizes rapid supply of the sealing agent (32) into a pneumatic tire without surfacing in the form of bubbles through the sealing agent (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventors: Masaki Yoshida, Yuji Takeda, Shinichi Iwasaki, Rieko Iwasaki, legal representative
  • Patent number: 8002873
    Abstract: A method of increasing the nitrogen concentration within a tire of a vehicle includes transporting a mobile nitrogen concentrating apparatus to a position adjacent the vehicle and concentrating a nitrogen content of a compressed first gas to obtain a second gas. The method also includes coupling the nitrogen concentrating apparatus in fluid communication with the tire and programming an inflator to purge the tire to a predetermined pressure and then pressurizing the container to a predetermined pressure. The method also includes purging the container of a portion of the existing gas and introducing a portion of the second gas into the tire to create a first gas mixture. The method additionally includes purging the container of a portion of the first gas mixture, and introducing a portion of the second gas into the tire to create a second gas mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: Michael J. Wrosch, Anthony F. Grzelakowski
  • Publication number: 20110192492
    Abstract: A flat tire sealant storage container is provided for a flat tire repair device in a formed in a simple configuration which enables the container to be stably secured. The flat tire sealant storage container includes an air inflow pipe for injecting compressed air under pressure into the container filled with a flat tire sealant and a sealant outlet discharge pipe for discharging the flat tire sealant under pressure to the outside of the container. The flat tire sealant storage container further includes an attachable and detachable fixing device formed on the outer surface of the container. When the container is secured to an external object by the fixing device, the inlet of the sealant outlet discharge pipe is positioned at the inner lower part of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: THE YOKOHAMA RUBBER CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Daisuke Kanenari, Takumi Sekiguchi
  • Publication number: 20110180178
    Abstract: A kit for repairing and inflating inflatable articles has a compressor assembly; a sealing fluid canister assembly connectable fluidically to the compressor assembly; a pressure sensor connected to the compressor assembly; a display device for displaying a pressure signal generated by the pressure sensor; and control means connected between the pressure sensor and the display device, and designed to cut off the signal to the display device for a predetermined time interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Maurizio Marini, Sergio Lolli
  • Publication number: 20110180180
    Abstract: sealing fluid container assembly (3), connectable to a compressor assembly and to a control circuit of the compressor assembly, has a connecting unit (25) defining a releasable connection to the compressor assembly; and a connecting device (12) for injecting sealing fluid into an inflatable article, and which cooperates releasably with a valve (V) of the inflatable article. More specifically, the container assembly (3) has a sensor carried by the connecting device (12); and at least one electric contact (33) connected to the sensor (12) and cooperating with an electric terminal (24) to transmit a signal from the sensor (12) to the control device when the connecting device (12) is connected to the valve (V); the sensor (12) having a first and a second terminal (40, 39) designed to be short-circuited directly by the valve (V).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Sergio Lolli, Maurizio Marini
  • Patent number: 7975731
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for filling tires with high purity nitrogen involves evacuating and then filling tires with nitrogen. An automated apparatus has a mode of operation which can be selected from among a four tire service, a spare tire service and a top off service, with or without vacuuming during evacuation. With the four tire service, four tires connected to the apparatus are evacuated and then filled to set front and rear tire pressures. With the spare tire service a single tire connected to the apparatus is evacuated then nitrogen filled to a set tire pressure. A five tire service for evacuating and filling two front and two rear tires and a spare tire is also disclosed. The top off service of a tire connected to the apparatus involves sensing the tire pressure and then evacuating or nitrogen filling to obtain a set tire pressure. Evacuation of a tire is automatically stopped when a set minimum pressure level or a set maximum time limit for evacuation is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: RTI Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric I. Shultz, Jeffrey B. Murphy, Thomas L. Crandall
  • Publication number: 20110155280
    Abstract: An apparatus for inserting air and/or sealant into a tire, in particular vehicle tire, comprising a container for the sealant having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the outlet is connected or connectable to a hose of which the other end is connectable to a tire to be filled, and a means for generating pressure which is connectable via a switching valve selectably with the inlet of the container or with a hose, of which the other end is connectable to a tire to be filled. The same hose is provided for connecting the means for generating pressure to the tire to be filled, on the one hand, and for connecting the outlet of the container and the tire to be filled, on the other hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: SRI SUMITOMO RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Arnold ECKHARDT
  • Publication number: 20110155279
    Abstract: A kit for inflating and repairing inflatable articles, in particular tires, the kit having a compressor assembly, a container of sealing liquid and connectors for connecting the container to the compressor assembly and to an inflatable article for repair or inflation; the compressor assembly being housed in an outer casing defining a seat for the container of sealing liquid. The container is housed removably in the seat and functionally connected to the compressor assembly so as to form a compact unit ready for use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Maurizio MARINI
  • Publication number: 20110132491
    Abstract: An apparatus for processing an un-inflated tire-wheel assembly for forming an inflated tire-wheel assembly is disclosed. The apparatus includes at least a first robotic arm and a second robotic arm forming a pair of robotic arms; an assembling end effecter attached to the first robotic arm; and an inflating end effecter attached to the second robotic arm, wherein the assembling end effecter is indirectly interfaceable with the inflating end effecter by way of the un-inflated tire-wheel assembly. One or more methods are also disclosed. One or more components are also disclosed. One or more systems are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Android Industries LLC
    Inventors: John Donnay, Gregory J. Masserang, James Thomas-Charles Krom, Patrick W. Zoller, Joshua J. Hicks, David H. Larson
  • Publication number: 20110126938
    Abstract: A device for the introduction of air and/or sealant into a tire, in particular a motor vehicle tire, having an electric pump or compressor, an electric connection cable for the pump or compressor which has a connection element, in particular a plug, at its end for the connection of the connection cable to a power supply, in particular to the cigarette lighter of a motor vehicle, having a hose for the air and/or the sealant which is or can be connected to the electric pump or compressor and whose other end can be connected to the tire to be filled, and having a housing for the reception of at least some of the device components, wherein the housing has in each case a separate receiver for the connection cable, on the one hand, and the connection element of the connection cable, on the other hand to improve the handling of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: SUMITOMO RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Arnold Eckhardt
  • Publication number: 20110120590
    Abstract: An inflator apparatus for inflating more than one un-inflated tire-wheel assembly is disclosed. The inflator apparatus includes a support structure; an interface portion rotatably-attached to the support structure, wherein the interface portion includes a plurality of inflator heads, wherein each inflator head of the plurality of inflator heads includes a fluid inlet; a plunger portion movably-connected to the support structure, wherein the plunger portion is movably-connected to the support structure to permit selectively coupling of the plunger portion with one inflator head of the plurality of inflator heads; and a fluid conduit connected to the plunger portion, wherein the fluid conduit is fluidly connectable with the fluid inlet of the one inflator head of the plurality of inflator heads. A system for processing more than one un-inflated tire-wheel assembly is also disclosed. A method for utilizing an inflator apparatus for inflating more than one un-inflated tire-wheel assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Android Industries LLC
    Inventors: Robert Reece, John Donnay, David H. Larson, Patrick W. Zoller, Lawrence J. Lawson
  • Publication number: 20110094620
    Abstract: A temporary mobility kit to minimize or prevent the inadvertent outflow of tire sealant is provided. The temporary mobility kit includes a switch-inflator assembly and a removable sealant assembly. The switch-inflator assembly includes a pump motor and an electrical plug assembly having a cord portion and a plug. The plug is adapted for use in the vehicle's power unit. The housing includes a peripheral channel about which the cord portion of the electrical plug assembly is wrapped when the electrical plug assembly is not in use. A plug-receiving aperture is provided to receive and retain the plug when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: Kimberly Ann Steele, Darry L. Jones, Yingchao Guan
  • Patent number: 7926521
    Abstract: To be able to simply carry out an operation of repairing a punctured pneumatic tire, to be able to inject a necessary amount of a sealing agent firmly into the pneumatic tire even when the apparatus is used in an inclined state and to prevent clogging of the sealing agent and leakage of a liquid by being pressurized. A pump up apparatus 30 is an apparatus for injecting a sealing agent in a liquid state into a punctured pneumatic tire 38, thereafter, supplying compressed air into the pneumatic tire 38 to elevate an inner pressure thereof. The pump up apparatus 30 includes a sealing agent vessel 34 accommodating the sealing agent, a sealing agent injecting pump 42 for sucking the sealing agent from the sealing agent vessel 34 to feed it to the pneumatic tire 38, and a compressor 44 for pressurizing and sending air to the pneumatic tire 38.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventors: Ryuji Izumoto, Daisuke Sugio, Masaki Yoshida, Yuji Takeda
  • Publication number: 20110073214
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to temporary mobility kits that repair punctured tires. Some embodiments of the kit include an air compressor; a sealant assembly selectively connected to the pump; a sealant hose in the sealant assembly, configured to connect the air compressor to a tire valve; and a first circuit configured to assess a connection condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Yingchao Guan, Kimberly Ann Steele, Darryl L. Jones, Zhi Qiang He, Sergey Maryanovsky
  • Publication number: 20110041951
    Abstract: A canister for sealing fluid for repairing inflatable articles has a bottle defining an inner volume for the sealing fluid; a first inlet port and an outlet port connected fluidically by the inner volume; at least one non-return valve downstream from the inner volume and open to permit outflow of the sealing fluid from the outlet port; and a second inlet port connected to the outlet port, downstream from the at least one non-return valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Sergio LOLLI
  • Patent number: 7891385
    Abstract: To reliably supply a predetermined amount of sealing agent into a pneumatic tire even if the device is inclined and after the predetermined amount of sealing agent is supplied, to automatically start feeding compressed air into the pneumatic tire. In pumping device 30, when compressed air is supplied to air chamber 54, internal pressure of air chamber 54 increases, and as the internal pressure of air chamber 54 rises, a contained volume of air chamber 54 increases while a contained volume of liquid container 52 decreases. Thus, sealing agent 100 in an amount corresponding to the amount corresponding to the reduction in the contained volume of liquid container 52, is forcibly discharged from discharge outlet 64 and the discharged sealing agent 100 is injected into tire 90.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventors: Hideshi Yanagi, Daisuke Sugio, Kazuma Nakazawa, Shinichi Iwasaki, Rieko Iwasaki, legal representative, Yuji Takeda, Masaki Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20110030840
    Abstract: A portable device for delivering nitrogen to multiple tires includes a gas source and supply line connected to a controller. The device also includes a gas delivery line comprising a manifold with a plurality of outlets in fluid communication with each other. A gas delivery line is operably connected to the controller and a plurality of extension lines with engagement chucks are operably connected to the outlets. The controller controls the supply of gas to the gas delivery line and controls a relief valve for venting the gas delivery line. The device also includes a sensor and a processor connected the controller and sensor which accepts user inputs. The controller, manifold, and processor are affixed to a stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: KRESKA TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventor: Jay Lighter
  • Publication number: 20100326578
    Abstract: A device for adjustment of pressure in tires includes a chamber with shape memory and a valve. The valve is a three-way valve with inputs interconnected with the external environment and the tire internal space, where one input is fitted with a valve, the next input is connected to one end of the chamber with shape memory, and the last input is interconnected with the closure element. The device for adjustment of pressure in tires includes the chamber with shape memory interconnected with the external environment through an input and with the tire chamber through an output and fitted with at least one valve. The length of the chamber in the direction of tire rotation equals 0.001 to 0.5 of the tire perimeter, where the volume of the chamber before deformation to volume of the chamber during deformation ratio is the same or higher then the desired tire pressure to pressure of the external environment ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: CODA DEVELOPEMENT, S.R.O.
    Inventor: Frantisek Hrabal
  • Patent number: 7854242
    Abstract: A device for discharging tire sealant (3) from a container (2), the container (2) is connectable to a closure element (1). The pressure source (6) is able to be connected to the closure element (1) and, when a positive pressure is produced in the container (2), a removal opening (12) is able to be released in order to discharge tire sealant (3) from the container (2) into a tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Doukas AG
    Inventor: Michael Stehle
  • Patent number: 7841370
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of reducing noise transmission in a pneumatic tire and wheel assembly comprising an inflation cavity, the method comprising the step of adding to the inflation cavity from about 0.1 to about 1 volume percent, based on the volume of the inflation cavity, of a repeatably foamable liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Marc Engel, Jan Leyssens, Wolfgang Gnoerich
  • Patent number: 7831346
    Abstract: A method for detecting decompression of tires based on the rotational speed of wheels mounted on a vehicle, comprising the steps of: detecting the rotational speed of each of the above-mentioned wheels, determining the speed against ground of the vehicle, calculating the speed information of a fixed wheel from the rotational speeds of said wheels, calculating the judgment value of the wheel position by comparing the speed information of the wheels with the speed against ground of the vehicle, comparing the judgment value of the wheel position with the basis value of the wheel position obtained by preliminarily comparing the speed against ground of the vehicle with the speed information of the wheels at prescribed inner pressure, and judging decompression of tires based on relation between the comparison value of the basis value with the judgment value and a fixed threshold. A region of judging decompression of tires can be broadened and the accuracy of reduced pressure judgment can be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Masashi Kitano