Multi-Chamber Tire Concept for Low Rolling-Resistance

Rolling-resistance is leading the direction of numerous tire developments due to its significant effect on fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions considering the vehicles in use globally. Many attempts were made to reduce rolling-resistance in vehicles, but with no or limited success due to tire complexity and trade-offs. This article investigates the concept of multiple chambers inside the tire as a potential alternative solution for reducing rolling-resistance. To accomplish that, novel multi-chamber designs were introduced and numerically simulated through finite-element (FE) modeling. The FE models were compared against a standard design as the baseline. The influences on rolling-resistance, grip, cornering, and mechanical comfort were studied. The multi-chambers tire model reduced rolling-resistance considerably with acceptable trade-offs. Independent air volumes isolating the tread from sidewalls would maintain tire’s profile effectively. Different air concentration across the tire’s chambers gave the tire extended versatility. Rolling non-uniformity depends upon inner-chambers’ stability, sidewalls’ flexibility and tire/chamber(s) integration.