Abstract: A method and system for analyzing performance of a turbine. The turbine optimizer allows a user to evaluate the current performance of their turbine with its current configuration and the future performance of their turbine with a modified configuration. The turbine optimizer determines the current performance characteristic of the turbine based on the current configuration information. Upon receiving from a user a request to display the future performance characteristics, the turbine optimizer calculates the performance characteristics for that turbine if various modifications are made to its configuration. The turbine optimizer may provide a graph that illustrates the current performance characteristics and future performance characteristics with those modifications. The turbine optimizer may also calculate various financial estimates based on the current operating characteristics or future operating characteristics of the turbine.

Abstract: A method of transferring files between a computer on board a train and a remote station including determining if the remote station is within range of the train and establishing wireless communication between the onboard computer and the remote station. Next, the computer determines whether there are files to be transferred, and if so, transfers the file. If the remote station has updates to be transferred to the train, such updates are transferred to the onboard computer. Files and updates are also transferred between remote stations and between remote stations and a home base station. A method of adjusting a simulator includes inputting data from the train onto a simulator. The simulator is operated with the data and the simulator automatically adjusts the parameters of the simulator until the data of the simulator matches the data from the train. The data can then be process and analyzed.

Abstract: A simulator comprising computer-aided design programs for simulating a shift control algorithm stored in an ECU of an automatic transmission having hydraulic clutches. In the simulator, a simplified hydraulic model describes the entire system so as to design a third model based on which simulation is conducted. With this, by using such a simplified model, it becomes possible to decrease simulation time to 4 sec., enabling to simulation in a time close to an actual shift of approximately 1.5 sec. Moreover, the durability of transmission is tested by repeating the simulation. When the occurrence of undesirable shift phenomenon is forecast in the simulation, the shift control algorithm is corrected until the phenomenon disappears in the next simulation. With this, the manufacturing of a test transmission and a preliminary test are no longer needed, thereby further improving the efficiency and costs of transmission development.

Abstract: This invention provides in a safe and effective manner the experience of observing potential collision obstacles or other hazard images to the human operator of an otherwise conventional vehicle, (such as an automobile or aircraft) moving in a normal manner in a natural environment (such as an outdoor test track). The invention incorporates in addition to the mobile vehicle, computer-based image generation devices, and position, velocity, acceleration, measurement instruments to enable the simulated visual hazard images, including operator perception of and response to those hazard images. Making the actual moving vehicle part of the simulated hazard encounter means the vestibular (motion) cues and visual cues of the natural environment are very realistic, while only the computer-generated hazard images imposed on the natural environment view are virtual.

Abstract: An analysis method of a lamp member for a vehicle, includes (1) the point group data generation step of generating point group data that represents a region to be analyzed, on the basis of CAD data of a lamp member for a vehicle, (2) the analysis parameter extraction step of extracting analysis parameters required for analysis from a storage device, (3) the analysis parameter accept step of accepting input of the analysis parameters, and (4) the analysis execution step of executing analysis in accordance with a program corresponding to a structure of the lamp member for a vehicle on the basis of the generated point group data, and the accepted analysis parameters.

Abstract: In a flight simulator program, a flight dynamics editing module enables the user to input parameters for modifying an existing aircraft design or creating an aircraft design. Starting with the type and purpose of aircraft, the user is able to specify parameters defining the configuration, and various other aspects of the aircraft, including the number and type of engines, properties of the flight controls, type of landing gear, etc. Once the user has input the parameters, an aerodynamic coefficients generator module included with the flight simulation program determines aerodynamic coefficients for the aircraft design, using classical formulas and determining the coefficients in an appropriate order. The aerodynamic coefficients and certain parameters input by the user are then output as two flight model data files, in a format usable by the flight simulator program, so that the user can evaluate the aircraft design by flying it within the simulation.

Abstract: Methods and systems for testing and diagnosis of weapon control systems are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus for testing a weapon control system includes an interface unit and a simulator unit. The interface unit is adapted to be operatively coupled to the weapon control system, and the simulator unit is operatively coupled to the interface unit. The simulator unit receives and analyzes a control signal, and transmits at least one of a first type of responsive signal indicative of a properly functioning component, and a second type of responsive signal indicative of a malfunctioning component.

Abstract: A support system comprises a support center 21 and a control measurement system 31 to be supported, which are connected via a computer network 28. The control measurement system 31 comprises means for collecting information which is available for support and when a predetermined condition holds, transmitting the collected information to the support center 21. The support center 21 comprises means for receiving the information transmitted from the control measurement system 31 and storing the received information. The information transmitted from the control measurement system 31 contains information concerning user's setting for the control measurement system 31.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for simulating airport lighting aids by providing a generator having a processor structured to receive a plurality of navigation signals representative of position and altitude of a host aircraft; a signal generator operated by the processor, the generator being structured to retrieve airport information from a database as a function of the position signal, compare the position and altitude signals with a glide path, and output a signal representative of a degree of coincidence with the glide path as a function of the position and altitude signals; and a plurality of indicators structured to receive the signal output by the signal generator and responsively output a visual indication of the degree of coincidence with the glide path.

Abstract: A system and method for designing an HVAC system using a database to manage values of properties corresponding to design elements. Elements include substantially all physical components and connections available for creating an HVAC system design. A user interface represents design elements arbitrarily selectable by a user and connectable to one another in a schematic to establish the HVAC system design. The system may provide, automatically, default values corresponding to the properties corresponding to the design elements. A user may select arbitrarily, from the design elements, an arbitrary number of selected design elements to be interconnected in the HVAC system design. A user may place and interconnect each arbitrary design element, while the system calculates, automatically, values of properties characterizing the arbitrary design elements; validating correctness of the interconnections and properties, calculating performance parameters, and providing drawings.

Abstract: A method for representing the structure of an article of manufacture having a plurality of design variants includes defining a plurality of positions corresponding to different predefined locations on the article of manufacture and assigning at least one variant to each position. Each variant identifies a specific part that may be used in the respective position or a specific type of connection between a pair of parts. In any given position, at most one part or connection variant can be selected. Code rules are defined for each variant which indicate when a particular variant should be used in accordance with specified design options. The position and variant representation can be implemented as part of a bill of materials used for manufacturing resource planning.

Abstract: A system and method that utilizes information relating to vehicle damage information including damaged vehicle area information, crush depth of the damaged areas information, and vehicle component-by-component damage information to estimate the relative velocities of vehicles involved in a collision. The change in velocity is estimated using a plurality of methods, and a determination is made as to which method provided a result that is likely to be more accurate, based on the damage information, and the types of vehicles involved. The results from each method may also be weighted and combined to provide a multi-method estimate of the closing velocity. The methods include using crash test data from one or more sources, estimating closing velocity based on the principals of conservation of momentum, and estimating closing velocity based on deformation energy resulting from the collision.

Abstract: A command sequence for an autonomous UAV mission is optimized by simulating the performance of a mission in a model environment. Using a genetic algorithm, neural net, or other suitable technique this command sequence is then optimized, to improve the outcome of the mission. A factor in selecting an optimal command sequence will be its compressability. A set of one or more optimal command sequences is compiled. Each optimal command sequence is encoded into an algorithmic active packet of minimum size for uploaded to the UAV, which then executes the mission. To track the UAV in its performance of the mission without compromising its location, the active packets are executed in the simulated environment. The simulated environment is continually updated with the most current available information. The simulation results are an approximation of the current state of the UAV.

Abstract: A system for estimating on-line a set of mathematical model parameters is disclosed. The system includes a control circuit and a number of sensors electrically coupled to the control circuit. The control circuit is configured to update a group of matrix cells of a data matrix in response to receiving sensory data from the number of sensors and determine the model parameters based on the updated data matrix.

Abstract: A method, computer program, and system for generating computer-based models of seats on a passenger compartment floor plate from a first document are provided. According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a first document defining a plurality of seat positions and seat identities associated with the seat positions is received. Dimensions according to seat identities are extracted. A model of the seats affixed with fasteners to the passenger compartment floor plate based upon the seat positions, the extracted dimensions, and seat identities is generated. Loads on the fasteners generated by subjecting the model to an acceleration of a known magnitude and direction are simulated and stored.

Abstract: An assembly 10 which allows a vehicular damper to be virtually created and evaluated. Particularly, the assembly 10 includes a torque producer 31, a frequency filter generator 50, and analyzers 32, 34, 36 and 38. The torque produce 31 selectively produces a torque signal which is combined with a selected frequency filter provided by the generator 50, thereby producing a dampened signal which is communicated to a transmission assembly 14. The analyzer detects noise and vibration and allows a designer to evaluate the chosen frequency filter. Other filters may be used and a filter is selected based upon the noise and vibration measurements made by the analyzers 32, 34, 36, and 38. An actual damper is then constructed having a frequency characteristic which is substantially similar to the frequency characteristic of the chosen frequency filter.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling both the pressure and temperature at the engine air intake, engine crankcase, and at the engine exhaust so that pressure and temperature conditions are equilibrated. Engines are tested both at simulated high altitudes (operating air at barometric pressures lower than the local barometric pressure at the test site) and low altitudes (operating air at barometric pressure higher than the local barometer at the test site) and at a variety of operating air temperatures. The method and system provide for the balancing of air pressure at the engine air intake and crankcase and engine exhaust. The effect of unbalanced air pressure is on engine emission test results is demonstrated.

Abstract: A system and method for predicting the behavior of a complex physical system with a qualitative analysis by correctly handling algebraic loops in physical system models for diagnosis applications. This approach recognizes the presence of negative feedback effects in loop structures and analyses these effects by tracking the entry point into the algebraic loop to resolve conflicting predictions.

Abstract: A system for designing vehicle chassis carriers comprises a user interface that receives vehicle parameter data. The user interface may be implemented using a spreadsheet or other data entry application as are known in the art. A user enters the vehicle parameter data such as vehicle dimensions and geometry. A design program such as a CAD program receives the vehicle parameter data and generates a vehicle chassis carrier design according to the vehicle parameter data and design constraints. The design constraints include weights, structural strength, and clearance information with respect to the carrier, the vehicle chassis, and obstructions in the environment.

Abstract: A system and method for simulating a component in a telematics system is described. The system and method includes a simulating a component and a establishing a communication link between the simulated component and a corresponding carlet in a telematics control unit (TCU). The simulated component can also be adjusted to a desired condition and the TCU can be monitored for a responsive output.

Abstract: A method of integrating product information management with vehicle design includes the steps of selecting a vehicle program requirement from a library stored in a memory of a computer system, wherein the library is accessed through an information portal on the computer system. The method also includes the steps of selecting an information database containing information related to the design of the vehicle from the library, wherein the information database is accessed through the information portal, and determining if the information from the information database correlates with the program requirement. The method further includes the steps of using the information from the information database in the design of the vehicle, if the information from the information database correlates with the program requirement.

Abstract: Systems and methods for, inter alia, geographically based analyses of traffic being carried over a wide scale traffic network. The systems integrate geographical information systems (GIS) with traffic simulation processes to allow a user to analyze traffic patterns and loads at specific geographic locations of regions. Additionally, these systems allow for traffic analysis over a wide scale traffic network that may encompass the traffic network that exists within an geographic region and can include, as examples, the traffic networks that span across a city, that interconnect cities, that interconnect states and that run across multiple states. To this end, the systems include traffic simulators that can adaptively or controllably select between multiple traffic simulation models for simulating traffic across different segments of the traffic network. The different models provide varying levels of granularity for measurements of geographical location of a vehicle traveling over the traffic network.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for tire rolling simulation comprising the steps of: setting a tire model by modeling a tire with the use of elements capable of numerical analysis; setting a road surface model including a road-surface matter model formed by modeling road-surface matter forming a road surface with the use of elements that can be numerically analyzed and can cause a volume change due to compression which is substantially permanent; and performing a tire rolling simulation by making the tire model get in contact with the road-surface matter model, thereby providing the tire model with rotating conditions, and conducting deformation calculations of the tire model and the road-surface matter model at minute time increment intervals.

Abstract: A modeling method of a steering system for a vehicle comprises the steps of interpreting a coupled relation between an upper tube and a lower tube comprising a steering column, interpreting a coupled relation between the upper tube and an upper bracket and a coupled relation between the lower tube and a lower bracket, and interpreting the movement of a bearing mounted between a steering axle and a steering column using a cylindrical coordinate, thereby improving credibility relative to the interpretation result of a model When the interpretation result is applied to an actual vehicle, the impact absorption capacity and idle vibration capacity are greatly increased, thereby improving the performance of the overall steering system and ensuring safety to the occupants of the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for easily adjusting flight characteristics of a simulated aircraft. The system allows a user to adjust commanded pitch, roll or yaw values or steady state frequency response values that are associated with an atmospheric temperature value, an atmospheric dynamic pressure value, aileron position, rudder position, and elevator position.

Abstract: The Lane and Front-end Effectiveness Model (LFEM) is a self-contained PC desktop application that allows an analyst to quantitatively predict the impact of changes to their checkout operations. This application, according to the present invention, includes four simulation models representing the complex interactions between customers, staff, and checkstand resources. Three of these models are detailed lane models and the fourth is a store front-end checkout model. An analyst can use the LFEM to evaluate, in detail, different checkstand configurations and transaction processes and the effect these changes have on overall front-end performance. The purpose of this application is to provide retailers with timely information to reduce the risk and uncertainties of investing in new technologies or design changes by predicting their impact and return before committing resources to their acquisition or implementation.

Abstract: Object level conflict detection is provided. In an optimistic concurrency embodiment, when an object is to be updated, the database system is checked to determine whether any data related to fields of the object have changed since the object was read. This can be accomplished by storing a copy of the data when the initial object read function is performed and subsequently comparing the initial copy with the database data as it stands when the update is to be performed.

Abstract: There are provided a method of evaluating the reflection performance of a reflecting mirror designed for a vehicle lamp, an evaluation system, and a computer-readable storage medium. There are provided steps (108a) and (108b) in the method. The step (108a) is provided so as to enter design information representative of a plurality of reflecting basic surfaces as well as position information of a light source in a vehicle lamp. The step (108b) is provided so as to display attribute information with respect to each of a plurality of areas into which one reflecting basic surface selected from among the reflecting basic surfaces is divided on the basis of design information. The attribute information indicates whether imaginary light from the light source position can effectively reach each area, and is applied to a reflecting mirror composed of the plurality of reflecting basic surfaces.

Abstract: A method for generating an acceleration profile for a valve operating cam of an internal combustion engine varies an adjustment point of an initial draft acceleration profile curve such that a determinant of a set of equations defining valve motion constraints and scaling factors is forced to zero. The equations may then be solved for values of the scaling factors which are applied to the initial draft acceleration profile curve to generate a desired profile which satisfies valve motion constraints.

Abstract: A method for on-board real-time diagnostics of a mobile technical system using an adaptive technique to approximate stationary characteristic curves resulting from a workshop test. This adaptive technique uses observed non-stationary normal driving data to eliminate confounding variables.

Abstract: A method of parametric design of an instrument panel support structure for an instrument panel on a vehicle includes the step of determining an input parameter, such that the input parameter is a three dimensional coordinate defining the instrument panel support structure relative to the vehicle. The method also includes the step of generating a design of the instrument panel support structure using the input parameter and determining if the design of the instrument panel support structure meets a predetermined criteria. The method further includes the step of modifying the input parameter if the design of the instrument panel support structure does not meet the predetermined criteria.

Abstract: A vehicle package design system includes a data store of vehicle packages defined in terms of spatial dimensions relating vehicle hard points. A design engine adaptively renders a vehicle space based on a vehicle package, and, in response to user input defining a required change in a target spatial dimension, alters the target spatial dimension according to the required change, and alters one or more potentially altered spatial dimensions based on alteration of the target spatial dimension. A user interface communicates potentially altered spatial dimensions to the user, including indicating them as potentially altered according to alteration of the target spatial dimension.

Abstract: An adaptive train model (ATM) for predicting train consist reactions to specific stimuli using a system including at least one measurement sensor located on the train consist, a data base, and a computer. The ATM collects sensor data as the consist is moving, determines a consist force balance utilizing the sensor data and the computer, determines a set of consist coefficients using the computer, and predicts train consist kinetic characteristic values using the consist force balance and the set of consist coefficients.

Abstract: A method and implementing computer system are provided in which an interface device is designed to provide an interface between a remote controller (RC) device for controlling the operation of a vehicle, and a computer system such as a personal computer. The interface device is enabled to receive RC signals from the RC device and convert those RC signals to input signals which are input to a computer system. The interface device builds a translation table for converting the RC or joystick signals to appropriate input signals for the type of vehicle in a particular application. A user is thereby enabled to manipulate an RC device such as a joystick and observe how the user's input joystick movement affects the movement of a simulated controlled vehicle which is displayed on a display screen of the computer system.

Abstract: A method and system for increasing standardization and reuse of feature driven design of automotive vehicles. An automotive vehicle is represented by a vehicle model, which includes a set of features defining vehicle functionality and information on how to implement each feature. A features database stores information on how a feature is implemented, including the physical parts it requires and the configuration of the parts. A parts database is also provided for maintaining information on vehicle parts. Coupled to the features database and the parts data base is a feature manager arranged to determine physical implementation information for each feature based on the implementation information. The physical implementation information is included in the vehicle model. A conflict manager is provided for resolving conflicts between implementations of separate features, and an optimizer for standardizing parts and implementations across multiple vehicle models.

Abstract: A steer-by-wire assembly 10 is provided, including a flexible polymer steering column shaft 12 having a fixed end 14 and a free rotational end 16, and a control feature 22 in communication with said free rotational end 16. The flexible polymer steering column shaft 12 provides mechanical feel to the steer-by-wire system where prior mechanically actuated or servomotor devices were required.

Abstract: An acoustic tool that provides a reduced tool mode and enhanced accuracy for estimating shear wave propagation slowness in slow formations is disclosed. In one embodiment, the acoustic tool comprises: an acoustic source, an array of acoustic receivers, and an internal controller. The acoustic source excites waves that propagate in a quadrupole mode. The internal controller processes signals from the array of acoustic receivers to determine a peak phase semblance having a slowness value that varies with frequency. The minimum slowness value associated with the peak phase semblance provides an accurate estimate of the shear wave propagation slowness. The acoustic source preferably includes four source elements. The elements that are 90° apart are preferably driven in inverse-phase to obtain the quadrupole excitation pattern.

Abstract: To provide a method of assisting in the design of a vehicular suspension by allowing definition points inherent in suspensions to be easily recognized regardless of the different types and mechanisms thereof, and allowing specification values to be simply entered at the definition points. A method of assisting in the design of a vehicular suspension to generate a simulation model for a suspension using a CAD system includes the steps of indicating a suspension to be designed, opening a specification value entering window for entering specification values inherent in the indicated suspension, entering specification values at definition points inherent in the indicated suspension in the specification value entering window, and generating a simulation model based on the specification values at the definition points.

Abstract: A portable train simulator, including a microprocessor, a display and an input device for the microprocessor. A first program drives the display to depict indicia of a control stand and to respond to control inputs from the input device. A second program drives the display to depict a track to be traversed from a data file in response to the control inputs. A virtual control stand is one of the elements that allows the true portability of a train simulator. The system can display and switch between the present operating parameters of the train and/or a history of the operating parameters of the train, as selected by the input device. Thus, the system can switch from playback mode to simulation mode to provide a take-over of recorded conditions to allow an operator to explore alternate methods for managing the train.

Abstract: A method for changing the residual aligning torque (RAT) of a pneumatic tire by forming angled sipes in certain of the tread blocks in at least a pair of circumferentially extending ribs, each rib being located on an opposite side of the mid-circumferential plane of the tire. The sipes in the tread blocks in one of the ribs are formed at an inclined angle opposite to the inclined angle of the sipes in the tread blocks in the opposite rib. The RAT can also be changed by varying the depth and width of the opposed angled sipes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus accommodate interaction phenomenon in a data-flow-based simulation of a system of elements, by establishing meta-modules to simulate system elements and by establishing world modules associated with interaction phenomena. World modules are associated with proxy modules from a group of meta-modules associated with one of the interaction phenomenon. The world modules include a communication world, a sensor world, a mobility world, and a contact world. World modules can be further associated with other world modules if necessary. Interaction phenomenon are simulated in corresponding world modules by accessing member functions in the associated group of proxy modules. Proxy modules can be dynamically allocated at a desired point in the simulation to accommodate the addition of elements in the system of elements such as a system of robots, a system of communication terminals, or a system of vehicles, being simulated.

Abstract: A flutter test model is provided that utilizes a novel approach for fixing wing elements to an elastic spar, resulting in reduced airflow disturbance. A test wing has an elastic spar that simulates the elasticity of a wing of an actual airplane, and a plurality of wing elements that simulate the external shape of the wing of the actual airplane. A pair of fore and aft anchor members are fixed to the elastic spar by bolts, the wing element that is formed by stereolithography is fitted around the anchor members from the wing tip side, and the wing element is fastened to the anchor members by bolts that run through the wing element from the wing tip side. A weight, which is a tungsten rod, is housed in a weight support hole formed in the wing element. The anchor members and the bolts are not exposed on the surface of the wing element and the airflow over the surface of the test wing is not disturbed when a flutter test is carried out in a wind tunnel, thereby enhancing the accuracy of the flutter test.

Abstract: A system and method for design of experiments (DOE) using direct surface manipulation of a mesh model. The method includes the steps of selecting a geometric model in a computer-aided design (CAD) format, converting the geometric model into a mesh model and evaluating the mesh model using a computer-aided engineering (CAE) analysis. The method also includes the steps of determining whether to continue generating the design of experiments response, and modifying a surface of the mesh model by varying a predetermined parameter, wherein the surface is modified using direct surface manipulation (DSM), the mesh model is updated and the updated mesh model is used in continuing generating the design of experiments response, if determined to continue the design of experiments. The method further includes the steps of using the results of the CAE analysis for the design of experiments.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a damping system. The system has at least two dampers for damping between sprung and unsprung masses in the compression and rebound directions. Sensors generate signals based on position and other parameters of motion representative of the displacement between the sprung and unsprung masses. The process determines the appropriate compression and rebound forces to be applied at the wheels. A regulator responds to at least one of the independent compression and rebound control signals for adjusting, respectively, at least one of compression and rebound resisting forces of the dampers between the masses. Compliance for the dampers is emulated with software to produce the desired compliance forces.

Abstract: Method for activation of the regeneration of a particulate filter for a motor vehicle engine, comprising the steps of calculating an estimated value (xM) of a quantity of particulate accumulated in the particulate filter; comparing (8) the estimated value (xM) with a threshold value (mTH) corresponding to a predetermined maximum quantity of particulate; and activating the regeneration (9) if the estimated value (xM) exceeds the threshold value (mTH).

Abstract: A multiple region convolver includes tapering between successive models of a physical system. The tapering is performed during a transition period.

Abstract: An adaptive aero-thermodynamic engine model is disclosed which incorporates a plurality of model engine operating parameters, a plurality of nominal component efficiencies and corresponding efficiency modifier functions. The engine model is adapted by measuring a plurality of engine operating parameters corresponding to the plurality of model engine operating parameters during steady state operation of the engine over a plurality of data points, matching each of the model engine operating parameters to respective measured engine operating parameters by iteratively adapting each of the nominal component efficiencies using the corresponding efficiency modifier functions, estimating actual component efficiencies based upon the adapted nominal component efficiencies, and inputting the estimated actual component efficiencies into the engine model.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of designing rubber composite executed as follows. A shape of the rubber composite, a shape of the each part (i) constituting the rubber composite and physical properties of a rubber material used for each part (i) are tentatively selected respectively. Thereafter, the rubber composite is divided into many finite elements, and strain in each element is calculated by the finite element method to obtain maximum principal strain (?i)max of the elements in each part (i). Then, the tentative selections of the shape of the rubber composite, the shape of each part (i) and the physical properties of the rubber material, and the calculations by the finite element method are repeated until an allowance ratio Sia calculated as a ratio of strain (?i)b at break to the maximum strain (?i)max becomes equal to a specified reference allowance ratio S0 or higher in all of the parts (i).

Abstract: A method of non-intrusive monitoring of catalyst performance in an automotive exhaust system uses a model of catalytic converter operation emphasizing oxygen storage capacity dominance. Model parameters are identified using a recursive Kalman filtering technique. A catalyst diagnostic index is derived from at least one identified parameter, and the index is used to judge converter performance.

Abstract: A method for reducing tire microsliding includes defining a rotation point and rotating a cross section profile about it. A cross section of a radially-external reference profile of a tread band includes a first rectilinear segment near at least one circumferential rib of a first shoulder portion. The first rectilinear segment extends axially outward beyond a corresponding shoulder edge point. A cross section profile of the at least one circumferential rib of the first shoulder portion includes a second rectilinear segment. The rotation point is on the first rectilinear segment, either the corresponding shoulder edge point itself or axially outward of it. The cross section profile of the first rectilinear segment is rotated to define the cross section profile of the second rectilinear segment, so that an axially-inner end of the second rectilinear segment is closer to the carcass structure than an axially-inner end of the first rectilinear segment.