System and method for extending the range of run-flat tires
AssigneeLockheed Martin Corporation
InventorPatrick Fitzgibbons
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A method and system for extending the range of run-flat tires by providing ride height control. When the vehicle has a damaged tire or tires the ride height of an appropriate suspension system(s) is capable of being adjusted to achieve a level attitude for the vehicle thus preventing destructive loads from being placed on the damaged run-flat tire(s).
Claims23
A method for extending the operating range of a deflated run-flat tire on a vehicle having a plurality of adjustable wheel supports, comprising the steps of:
- determining that a run-flat tire on the vehicle is deflated;
- and
- adjusting at least one of a plurality of adjustable wheel supports to change the vehicle attitude to prevent additional weight and side loads from being placed on at least one deflated run-flat tire.
A system for extending the operating range of a deflated run-flat tire on a vehicle having a plurality of adjustable wheel supports, the system comprising:
- means for detecting at least one deflated run-flat tire on the vehicle;
- and
- means for adjusting at least one of a plurality of adjustable wheel supports to change the vehicle attitude to prevent additional weight and side loads from being placed on the at least one deflated run-flat tire.
In a system for extending the operating range of a deflated run-flat tire on a military tactical vehicle having a plurality of adjustable wheel supports, the improvement comprising:
- means for detecting at least one deflated run-flat tire on the vehicle;
- and
- means for adjusting at least one of a plurality of adjustable wheel supports to change the vehicle attitude to prevent additional weight and side loads from being placed on the at least one deflated run-flat tire.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.