Pneumatic tire with electrically conductive rubber within rim cushion rubber

Abstract

The pneumatic tire includes: a belt layer, a belt reinforcing layer, a tread portion, sidewall portions, a rim cushion rubber, and an electrically conductive rubber disposed in the rim cushion rubber and includes a first end in contact with a rim and exposed on an outer surface of the rim cushion rubber and a second end in contact with a tire component adjacent to the rim cushion rubber. The electrical resistance value of the electrically conductive rubber and a portion of the tread portion is 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less. The electrical resistance value of the tire component, a coating rubber of the belt layer, and a coating rubber of the belt reinforcing layer is from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm. The electrical resistance value of the rim cushion rubber and a side rubber of the sidewall portions is 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm or greater.

Claims

1. A pneumatic tire, comprising: a tread portion intended to come into contact with a road surface, the tread portion being disposed exposed to an outermost side in a tire radial direction; a belt layer disposed inward of the tread portion in the tire radial direction; a belt reinforcing layer disposed outward of at least a portion of the belt layer in the tire radial direction; a pair of sidewall portions, one disposed exposed on each of two outermost sides in a tire width direction; a pair of bead portions, one disposed on each sidewall portion, each bead portion having a rim cushion rubber disposed where the respective bead portion is intended to come into contact with a rim; a carcass layer reaching both of the bead portions in the tire width direction and extending in a tire circumferential direction, the carcass layer being disposed inward of and adjacent to the belt layer in the tire radial direction; and an electrically conductive rubber disposed in each rim cushion rubber, each electrically conductive rubber including a first end intended to be in contact with the rim, the first end being exposed on an outer surface of the respective rim cushion rubber, and a second end in contact with a rubber innerliner layer disposed on a tire inner surface adjacent to the respective rim cushion rubber and to the carcass layer; wherein an electrical resistance value of each electrically conductive rubber and a portion of the tread portion is from 5.5×10.sup.4 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm under a condition of 23° C. temperature; an electrical resistance value of the rubber innerliner layer, a coating rubber of the carcass layer, a coating rubber of the belt layer, and a coating rubber of the belt reinforcing layer is from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm under the condition of 23° C. temperature; and an electrical resistance value of the respective rim cushion rubber and a side rubber forming each of the pair of sidewall portions is 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm or greater under the condition of 23° C. temperature.

2. The pneumatic tire according to claim 1, wherein the tread portion includes a cap tread rubber exposed on a tread surface, and an undertread rubber disposed inward of the cap tread rubber in the tire radial direction adjacent to the belt layer or the belt reinforcing layer; and the cap tread rubber has an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less under the condition of 23° C. temperature, and the undertread rubber has an electrical resistance value of from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm under the condition of 23° C. temperature.

3. The pneumatic tire according to claim 1, wherein the tread portion includes a cap tread rubber exposed on a tread surface, and an undertread rubber disposed inward of the cap tread rubber in the tire radial direction adjacent to the belt layer or the belt reinforcing layer; in the tread portion, a ground tread rubber is disposed passing through the cap tread rubber and the undertread rubber, the ground tread rubber including a first end exposed on the tread surface and a second end in contact with the belt layer or the belt reinforcing layer; and the ground tread rubber has an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less under the condition of 23° C. temperature, and the cap tread rubber and the undertread rubber have an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm or greater under the condition of 23° C. temperature.

4. The pneumatic tire according to claim 1, further comprising a belt edge cushion rubber disposed inward of each end portion of the belt layer in the tire radial direction; wherein the respective belt edge cushion rubber has an electrical resistance value of from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm under the condition of 23° C. temperature.

5. The pneumatic tire according to claim 4, wherein the tread portion includes a cap tread rubber exposed on a tread surface, and an undertread rubber disposed inward of the cap tread rubber in the tire radial direction adjacent to the belt layer or the belt reinforcing layer; and the cap tread rubber has an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less under the condition of 23° C. temperature, and the undertread rubber has an electrical resistance value of from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm under the condition of 23° C. temperature.

6. The pneumatic tire according to claim 4, wherein the tread portion includes a cap tread rubber exposed on a tread surface, and an undertread rubber disposed inward of the cap tread rubber in the tire radial direction adjacent to the belt layer or the belt reinforcing layer; in the tread portion, a ground tread rubber is disposed passing through the cap tread rubber and the undertread rubber, the ground tread rubber including a first end exposed on the tread surface and a second end in contact with the belt layer or the belt reinforcing layer; and the ground tread rubber has an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less under the condition of 23° C. temperature, and the cap tread rubber and the undertread rubber have an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm or greater under the condition of 23° C. temperature.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a meridian cross-sectional view of a pneumatic tire according to an embodiment of the present technology.

(2) FIG. 2 is a meridian cross-sectional view of the pneumatic tire according to the embodiment of the present technology.

(3) FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(4) FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(5) FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(6) FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(7) FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(8) FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(9) FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(10) FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(11) FIG. 11 is a graph showing the pressure applied to a bead portion when the pneumatic tire is assembled on a rim.

(12) FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(13) FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(14) FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(15) FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(16) FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(17) FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(18) FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(19) FIGS. 19A-19C include a table showing results of performance tests on pneumatic tires according to examples of the present technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(20) An embodiment of the present technology is described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the present technology is not limited by the embodiment. Furthermore, components of the embodiment include components that may be easily replaced by those skilled in the art or that are substantially identical to components of the embodiment. Furthermore, modified examples of the embodiment may be combined as desired within the scope apparent to those skilled in the art.

(21) FIGS. 1 and 2 are meridian cross-sectional views of a pneumatic tire according to the present embodiment.

(22) In the following description, “tire radial direction” refers to the direction orthogonal to the rotational axis (not illustrated) of a pneumatic tire 1. “Inward in the tire radial direction” refers to the direction toward the rotational axis in the tire radial direction, and “outward in the tire radial direction” refers to the direction away from the rotational axis in the tire radial direction. “Tire circumferential direction” refers to the rotation direction taking the rotational axis as a center axis. In addition, “tire width direction” refers to the direction parallel to the rotational axis. “Inward in the tire width direction” refers to the direction toward a tire equatorial plane CL (tire equatorial line) in the tire width direction, and “outward in the tire width direction” refers to the direction away from the tire equatorial plane CL in the tire width direction. “Tire equatorial plane CL” refers to a plane that is orthogonal to the rotational axis of the pneumatic tire 1 and that passes through the center of the pneumatic tire 1 in the tire width direction. “Tire width” is a width in the tire width direction between components located outward in the tire width direction, or in other words, the distance between the components that are most distant from the tire equatorial plane CL in the tire width direction. “Tire equatorial line” refers to a line along the tire circumferential direction of the pneumatic tire 1 that lies on the tire equatorial plane CL. In the present embodiment, the tire equatorial line is denoted by CL which is the same reference sign as that of the tire equatorial plane.

(23) As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment includes a tread portion 2, shoulder portions 3 on opposite sides of the tread portion 2, and sidewall portions 4 and bead portions 5 continuing in that order from the shoulder portions 3. The pneumatic tire 1 also includes a carcass layer 6, a belt layer 7, a belt reinforcing layer 8, and an innerliner layer 9.

(24) The tread portion 2 is made of tread rubber 2A, is exposed on the outermost side of the pneumatic tire 1 in the tire radial direction, and the surface thereof constitutes the contour of the pneumatic tire 1. A tread surface 21 is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the tread portion 2, in other words, on a road contact surface that comes in contact with a road surface when traveling. The tread surface 21 is provided with a plurality (four in the present embodiment) of main grooves 22 that extend in the tire circumferential direction. The main grooves 22 are straight main grooves parallel to the tire equatorial line CL. Moreover, a plurality of rib-like land portions 23 that extend in the tire circumferential direction are formed in the tread surface 21, defined by the plurality of main grooves 22. Note that the main grooves 22 may extend in the tire circumferential direction in a bending or curving manner. Additionally, lug grooves 24 that extend in a direction that intersects the main grooves 22 are provided in the land portions 23 of the tread surface 21. In the present embodiment, the lug grooves 24 show in the outermost land portions 23 in the tire width direction. The lug grooves 24 may meet the main grooves 22. Alternatively, the lug grooves 24 may have one end that does not meet the main grooves 22 and terminates within a land portion 23. In embodiments in which both ends of the lug grooves 24 meet the main grooves 22, the land portions 23 are formed into a plurality of block-like land portions divided in the tire circumferential direction. Note that the lug grooves 24 may extend inclined with respect to the tire circumferential direction in a bending or curving manner.

(25) The shoulder portions 3 are regions of the tread portion 2 located outward in the tire width direction. In other words, the shoulder portions 3 are made of the tread rubber 2A. Additionally, the sidewall portions 4 are exposed on the outermost sides of the pneumatic tire 1 in the tire width direction. The sidewall portions 4 are each made of a side rubber 4A. As illustrated in FIG. 1, an outer end portion of the side rubber 4A in the tire radial direction is disposed inward of an end portion of the tread rubber 2A in the tire radial direction. An inner end portion of the side rubber 4A in the tire radial direction is disposed outward of an end portion of a rim cushion rubber 5A described below in the tire width direction. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the outer end portion of the side rubber 4A in the tire radial direction may be disposed outward of the end portion of the tread rubber 2A in the tire radial direction and extend to the shoulder portion 3. The bead portions 5 each include a bead core 51 and a bead filler 52. The bead core 51 is formed by a bead wire, which is a steel wire, wound into an annular shape. The bead filler 52 is a rubber material that is disposed in space formed by an end of the carcass layer 6 in the tire width direction folded back at the position of the bead core 51. The bead portions 5 each include an outwardly exposed rim cushion rubber 5A that comes into contact with a rim R (illustrated by a long dashed double-short dashed line in FIGS. 3 to 8). The rim cushion rubber 5A constitutes the outer periphery of the bead portion 5. The rim cushion rubber 5A extends from the inner side of the bead portion 5 to the outer side of the bead portion 5 (sidewall portion 4) via the lower end portion of the bead portion 5 so as to cover the bead filler 52. Note that in FIGS. 3 to 8, when the pneumatic tire 1 is mounted to the rim R, the rim cushion rubber 5A presses against the rim R at a radially inner portion of a bead toe portion located inward of the bead portion 5, and deforms.

(26) The end portions of the carcass layer 6 in the tire width direction are folded over the pair of bead cores 51 from inward to outward in the tire width direction, and the carcass layer 6 is stretched in a toroidal shape in the tire circumferential direction to form the framework of the tire. The carcass layer 6 is constituted by a plurality of coating-rubber-covered carcass cords (not illustrated) disposed in alignment at an angle with respect to the tire circumferential direction that conforms with the tire meridian direction. The carcass cords are made of organic fibers (e.g., polyester, rayon, nylon, or the like). At least one carcass layer 6 is provided. Note that in FIGS. 1 and 2, the folded end portion of the carcass layer 6 is provided covering the whole bead filler 52. However the folded end portion may be provided covering the bead filler 52 partially, so that the bead filler 52 is in contact with the rim cushion rubber 5A (see FIG. 5). Additionally, a bead reinforcing layer 10 (see FIG. 6), which includes cord-rubber-coated steel cords or organic fibers (polyester, rayon, nylon, or the like), may be disposed between the outer folded end portion of the carcass layer 6 in the tire width direction and the rim cushion rubber 5A.

(27) The belt layer 7 has a multi-layer structure in which at least two layers (belts 71 and 72) are layered. In the tread portion 2, the belt layer 7 is disposed outward of the carcass layer 6 in the tire radial direction on the outer periphery thereof and covers the carcass layer 6 in the tire circumferential direction. The belts 71 and 72 each include a plurality of coating-rubber-covered cords (not illustrated) disposed in alignment at a predetermined angle with respect to the tire circumferential direction (for example, from 20 degrees to 30 degrees). The cords are made of steel or organic fibers (polyester, rayon, nylon, or the like). Additionally, the belts 71 and 72 overlap each other and are disposed so that the direction of the cords of the respective belts intersect each other. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 2, in embodiments in which the outer end portion of the side rubber 4A in the tire radial direction is disposed outward of the end portion of the tread rubber 2A in the tire radial direction and extends to the shoulder portion 3, a belt edge cushion rubber 7A is disposed inward of the end portion of the belt layer 7 (belt 71) in the tire radial direction and between this end portion and the carcass layer 6.

(28) The belt reinforcing layer 8 is disposed outward of the belt layer 7 in the tire radial direction on the outer periphery thereof and covers the belt layer 7 in the tire circumferential direction. The belt reinforcing layer 8 includes a plurality of coating-rubber-covered cords (not illustrated) disposed in alignment in the tire width direction substantially parallel (±5 degrees) to the tire circumferential direction. The cords are made of steel or organic fibers (polyester, rayon, nylon, or the like). The belt reinforcing layer 8 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is disposed so as to cover all of the belt layer 7 and to cover, in a multi-layered manner, end portions of the belt layer 7 in the tire width direction. The configuration of the belt reinforcing layer 8 is not limited to that described above. While not illustrated in the drawings, a configuration may be used in which, for example, two layers are disposed so as to cover all of the belt layer 7 or to cover only the end portions of the belt layer 7 in the tire width direction. Additionally, while not illustrated in the drawings, a configuration of the belt reinforcing layer 8 may be used in which, for example, one layer is disposed so as to cover all of the belt layer 7 or to cover only the end portions of the belt layer 7 in the tire width direction. In other words, the belt reinforcing layer 8 overlaps at least the end portion of the belt layer 7 in the tire width direction. Additionally, the belt reinforcing layer 8 is constituted of a band-like strip material (having, for example, a width of 10 mm) wound in the tire circumferential direction.

(29) The innerliner layer 9 is the tire inner surface, that is, the inner peripheral surface of the carcass layer 6. Both ends of the innerliner layer 9 in the tire width direction reach the bead cores 51 of the bead portions 5 and extend in the tire circumferential direction in a toroidal shape. The innerliner layer 9 prevents air molecules from escaping from the tire. Note that, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the innerliner layer 9 may be disposed extending to lower portions of the bead cores 51 (inward in the tire radial direction). However, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 12, the innerliner layer 9 may be disposed extending to a position on the tire inner side of the bead portion 5 near to the bead core 51.

(30) FIGS. 3 to 8 are enlarged views of a main part of the pneumatic tire illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(31) In the pneumatic tire 1 described above, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 8, the rim cushion rubber 5A is provided with an electrically conductive rubber 11. The electrically conductive rubber 11 is disposed in the rim cushion rubber 5A and includes a first end 11a and a second end 11b. The first end 11a is a portion in contact with the rim R exposed on the outer surface of the rim cushion rubber 5A. The second end 11b is provided in contact with a tire component adjacent to the rim cushion rubber 5A. Additionally, the electrically conductive rubber 11 is made of a rubber material with a lower electrical resistance value than that of the rim cushion rubber 5A. The electrically conductive rubber 11 may be provided continuously and may be provided intermittently in the tire circumferential direction.

(32) “Tire component adjacent to the rim cushion rubber 5A” refers to the carcass layer 6 in FIGS. 3 and 8, the innerliner layer 9 in FIGS. 4 and 7, the bead filler 52 in FIG. 5, and the bead reinforcing layer 10 in FIG. 6.

(33) Note that the electrically conductive rubber 11 as illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 8 is provided in contact with the tire component adjacent to the rim cushion rubber 5A. However, the electrically conductive rubber 11 may be in contact with a plurality of tire components in order to enable a more significant effect of guiding the electricity that enters from the rim R to the tread portion 2 side through the electrically conductive rubber 11 and the tire component. Additionally, positioning the conductive rubber 11 so that the first end 11a is exposed on the outer surface of the rim cushion rubber 5A and the second end 11b is in contact with the tire component adjacent to the rim cushion rubber 5A with the distance between the first end 11a and the second end 11b being the shortest distance possible is preferable from the point of view of obtaining a more significant effect of guiding the electricity that enters from the rim R to the tread portion 2 side through the conductive rubber 11 and the tire component.

(34) The tread portion 2 of the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment is configured as illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 10, which are enlarged views of a main part of the pneumatic tire 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.

(35) Here, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the tread rubber 2A which constitutes the tread portion 2 includes a cap tread rubber 2Aa exposed on the tread surface 21, and an undertread rubber 2Ab disposed inward of the cap tread rubber 2Aa in the tire radial direction and adjacent to the belt reinforcing layer 8 or the belt layer 7.

(36) Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the tread portion 2 includes a ground tread rubber 12 as a part thereof. The ground tread rubber 12 passes through the cap tread rubber 2Aa and the undertread rubber 2Ab of the tread portion 2 and includes a first end 12a that is exposed on the tread surface 21 that is the outer surface of the tread portion 2, and a second end 12b that is disposed in contact with the belt reinforcing layer 8 or the belt layer 7.

(37) A pneumatic tire 1 with such a configuration includes: the belt layer 7, the belt reinforcing layer 8, the tread portion 2, the sidewall portion 4, the rim cushion rubber 5A disposed where the bead portion 5 and the rim R come into contact, and the electrically conductive rubber 11 disposed in the rim cushion rubber 5A and includes a first end 11a in contact with the rim R and exposed on the outer surface of the rim cushion rubber 5A and a second end 11b in contact with a tire component adjacent to the rim cushion rubber 5A. The electrical resistance value of the electrically conductive rubber 11 and a portion of the tread portion 2 is 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less, for example 5.5×10.sup.4 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm. The electrical resistance value of the tire component, the coating rubber of the carcass layer 6, the coating rubber of the belt layer 7, and the coating rubber of the belt reinforcing layer 8 is from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm. The electrical resistance value of the rim cushion rubber 5A and the side rubber 4A of the sidewall portion 4 is 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm or greater.

(38) According to this pneumatic tire 1, by including the electrically conductive rubber 11 with a lower electrical resistance value than the rim cushion rubber 5A, electricity that enters from the rim R flows toward the tread portion 2 through the electrically conductive rubber 11 and the tire component. Because of this, a low heat build-up rubber can be used without taking into consideration the electrical resistance value of the rim cushion rubber 5A, and thus rolling resistance reduction performance and high-speed durability performance can be improved. As a result, good rolling resistance reduction performance, high-speed durability performance, and electrical resistance reduction performance can be achieved in a compatible manner.

(39) According to the pneumatic tire 1, the electricity from the rim R flows in via the electrically conductive rubber 11 and out to the road surface via a portion of the tread portion 2. These portions are most important factors in electrical resistance value reduction. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value to 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less, an effect of improvement in electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained. Additionally, the tire component, the coating rubber of the belt layer 7, and the coating rubber of the belt reinforcing layer 8 form the path through which electricity flows from the electrically conductive rubber 11 to a portion of the tread portion 2. These portions have good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance value reduction in a compatible manner. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value to from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm, good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained in a compatible manner. Additionally, the rim cushion rubber 5A and the side rubber 4A of the sidewall portion 4 are portions that factor into rolling resistance reduction performance and high-speed durability performance. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm or greater, an effect of improvement in rolling resistance reduction performance and high-speed durability performance can be significantly obtained.

(40) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the belt edge cushion rubber 7A is disposed inward of the end portion of the belt layer 7 in the tire radial direction and has an electrical resistance value of from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm.

(41) According to the pneumatic tire 1 according to embodiments in which the belt edge cushion rubber 7A is disposed, the belt edge cushion rubber 7A forms the path through which electricity flows from the electrically conductive rubber 11 to a portion of the tread portion 2. This portion has good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance value reduction in a compatible manner. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value to from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm, good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained in a compatible manner.

(42) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the tread portion 2 includes the cap tread rubber 2Aa exposed on the tread surface 21 and the undertread rubber 2Ab disposed inward of the cap tread rubber 2Aa in the tire radial direction adjacent to the belt layer 7 or the belt reinforcing layer 8. The cap tread rubber 2Aa has an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less. The undertread rubber 2Ab has an electrical resistance value of from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm.

(43) According to the pneumatic tire 1, a portion of the tread portion 2 is formed as part of the cap tread rubber 2Aa as an outlet for electricity to flow to the road surface. By setting the electrical resistance value of the cap tread rubber 2Aa, a most important portion in terms of electrical resistance value reduction, to 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less, an effect of improvement in electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained. Additionally, the undertread rubber 2Ab forms the path through which electricity flows from the electrically conductive rubber 11 to the cap tread rubber 2Aa. This portion has good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance value reduction in a compatible manner. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value of the undertread rubber 2Ab to from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm, good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained in a compatible manner.

(44) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the tread portion 2 includes the cap tread rubber 2Aa exposed on the tread surface 21 and the undertread rubber 2Ab disposed inward of the cap tread rubber 2Aa in the tire radial direction adjacent to the belt layer 7 or the belt reinforcing layer 8. In the tread portion 2, the ground tread rubber 12 is provided passing through the cap tread rubber 2Aa and the undertread rubber 2Ab. The first end 12a of the ground tread rubber 12 is exposed on the tread surface 21 and the second end 12b is disposed in contact with the belt layer 7 or the belt reinforcing layer 8. The ground tread rubber 12 has an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less. The cap tread rubber 2Aa and the undertread rubber 2Ab have an electrical resistance value of 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm or greater.

(45) According to the pneumatic tire 1, a portion of the tread portion 2 is formed as part of the ground tread rubber 12 as an outlet for electricity to flow to the road surface. By setting the electrical resistance value of the ground tread rubber 12, a most important portion in terms of electrical resistance value reduction, to 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm or less, an effect of improvement in electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained. Additionally, by disposing the ground tread rubber 12, the cap tread rubber 2Aa and the undertread rubber 2Ab can be rendered as portions that factor into rolling resistance reduction performance and high-speed durability performance. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm or greater, an effect of improvement in rolling resistance reduction performance and high-speed durability performance can be significantly obtained.

(46) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the tire component is the carcass layer 6 reaching both bead portion 5 in the tire width direction and extending in the tire circumferential direction. The electrical resistance value of the coating rubber of the carcass layer 6 is from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm.

(47) According to this pneumatic tire 1, the end portions of the carcass layer 6 in the tire width direction are folded over the pair of bead cores 51 from in to out in the tire width direction, and the carcass layer 6 is stretched in a toroidal shape in the tire circumferential direction to form the framework of the tire. By disposing the second end 11b of the electrically conductive rubber 11 in contact with this carcass layer 6, electricity that enters from the rim R can be appropriately guided toward the tread portion 2, and thus an effect of significant improvement in the electrical resistance reduction performance can be obtained. The carcass layer 6 with such a configuration is suitable for forming the path through which electricity flows from the electrically conductive rubber 11 to a portion of the tread portion 2 (cap tread rubber 2Aa or ground tread rubber 12). This portion has good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance value reduction in a compatible manner. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value of the coating rubber of the carcass layer 6 to from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm, good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained in a compatible manner.

(48) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the tire component may be the innerliner layer 9 disposed on the tire inner surface. The electrical resistance value of the rubber of the innerliner layer 9 is from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm.

(49) According to this pneumatic tire 1, the innerliner layer 9 is formed along the tire inner surface by disposing the end portions of the innerliner layer 9 in the tire width direction at the lower portions of the bead cores 51 of the pair of bead portions 5 and stretching the innerliner layer 9 in a toroidal shape in the tire circumferential direction. By disposing the second end 11b of the electrically conductive rubber 11 in contact with the innerliner layer 9, electricity that enters from the rim R can be appropriately guided to the tread portion 2 side, and thus an effect of significant improvement in electrical resistance reduction performance can be obtained. The innerliner layer 9 with such a configuration is suitable for forming the path through which electricity flows from the electrically conductive rubber 11 to a portion of the tread portion 2 (cap tread rubber 2Aa or ground tread rubber 12). This portion has good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance value reduction in a compatible manner. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value of the rubber of the innerliner layer 9 to from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm, good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained in a compatible manner.

(50) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the tire component may be the bead filler 52 provided in the bead portion 5. The electrical resistance value of the rubber of the bead filler 52 is from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm.

(51) According to the pneumatic tire 1 in which the bead filler 52 is the tire component, the bead filler 52 forms the path through which electricity flows from the electrically conductive rubber 11 to a portion of the tread portion 2 (cap tread rubber 2Aa or ground tread rubber 12). This portion has good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance value reduction in a compatible manner. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value of the rubber of the bead filler 52 to from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm, good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained in a compatible manner.

(52) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the tire component may be the bead reinforcing layer 10 provided in the bead portion 5. The electrical resistance value of the coating rubber of the bead reinforcing layer 10 is from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm.

(53) According to the pneumatic tire 1 in which the bead reinforcing layer 10 is the tire component, the bead reinforcing layer 10 forms the path through which electricity flows from the electrically conductive rubber 11 to a portion of the tread portion 2 (cap tread rubber 2Aa or ground tread rubber 12). This portion has good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance value reduction in a compatible manner. As such, by setting the electrical resistance value of the coating rubber of the bead reinforcing layer 10 to from 1×10.sup.6 Ω.Math.cm to 1×10.sup.8 Ω.Math.cm, good rolling resistance reduction performance and electrical resistance reduction performance can be significantly obtained in a compatible manner.

(54) As illustrated in FIGS. 4, 7, and 8, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the first end 11a of the electrically conductive rubber 11 is preferably disposed inward of a horizontal line H in the tire radial direction based on an inner end of the bead core 51 of the bead portion 5 in the tire radial direction, in a meridian cross-section.

(55) The horizontal line H is orthogonal to the tire equatorial plane CL and parallel with the tire width direction when a cut sample with a meridian cross-section is fitted to the rim width of the regular rim described below. Additionally, in FIGS. 4, 7, and 8, a range A-B is the range in which the bead portion 5 is in contact with the rim R when the pneumatic tire 1 is assembled on the rim R. Within the range A-B, position C is located inward of the end of the bead core 51 on the tire inner side in the tire radial direction; position D is located inward of the end of the bead core 51 on the tire outer side in the tire radial direction; position E is located on the horizontal line H; position F is located on the tire outer side of the outer side of the bead core 51 in the tire radial direction; and position G is an inflection point located on the tire outer side of the bead portion 5. FIG. 11 is a graph showing the pressure applied to the bead portion 5 at the positions within the range A-B when the pneumatic tire 1 is assembled on the rim R. Additionally, in FIG. 11, the solid line shows the pressure applied to the bead portion 5 when the vehicle is in a static state (when the vehicle is stop or traveling at low speeds). The dashed line shows the pressure applied to the bead portion 5 when the vehicle is traveling at high speeds (150 km/h or greater).

(56) As illustrated in FIG. 11, in the range between position A, which is inward of the horizontal line H in the tire radial direction, and position E, because the bead core 51 is wedged against the rim R, the contact pressure with the rim R is great, and thus contact with the rim R is ensured even when traveling at high speeds. Accordingly, by disposing the first end 11a of the electrically conductive rubber 11 inward in the tire radial direction of the horizontal line H, which is based on the inner end of the bead core 51 in the tire radial direction, electrical resistance can be efficiently reduced and good rolling resistance reduction performance and high-speed durability performance can be achieved in a compatible manner. Note that as illustrated in FIG. 11, in the range from position F to position G, contact pressure with the rim R is great when the vehicle is in a static state. However, when the vehicle is traveling at high speeds, the bead portion 5 is susceptible to displacement originating at the bead core 51, and thus the contact pressure with the rim R tends to be decreased.

(57) As illustrated in FIG. 12, which is an enlarged view of a main part of the pneumatic tire 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the electrically conductive rubber 11 is preferably disposed so that, in a meridian cross-section, the second end 11b is disposed in a ±45° range with respect to a normal line N to the profile of the bead portion 5 at position P of the first end 11a.

(58) As illustrated in FIG. 12, position P of the first end 11a is the center position of the first end 11a in terms of width in the thickness direction when a cut sample with a meridian cross-section is fitted to the rim width of the regular rim described below. The normal line N is orthogonal to a tangent line T at position P of the profile of the bead portion 5. By disposed the second end 11b in a ±45° range with respect to the normal line N, the volume of the electrically conductive rubber 11 is prevented by being too great. As a result, heat build-up is suppressed and rolling resistance reduction performance and high-speed durability performance can be maintained.

(59) As illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 18, which are enlarged views of a main part of the pneumatic tire 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the electrically conductive rubber 11 preferably has widths W1, W2, W3 in the thickness direction in a meridian cross-section of from 0.5 mm to 10.0 mm.

(60) The width W1 is the maximum dimension between the first end 11a and the second end 11b of the electrically conductive rubber 11 (in embodiments with a widening electrically conductive rubber 11), or the minimum dimension therebetween (in embodiments with a narrowing electrically conductive rubber 11). The width W2 is the dimension of the first end 11a of the electrically conductive rubber 11. The width W3 is the dimension of the second end 11b of the electrically conductive rubber 11.

(61) When the widths W1, W2, W3 of the electrically conductive rubber 11 have a minimum dimension of less than 0.5 mm, electrical resistance is low, and thus the electrical resistance reduction effect tends to be decreased. When the widths W1, W2, W3 of the electrically conductive rubber 11 have a maximum dimension of greater than 10.0 mm, the volume of the electrically conductive rubber 11 is great and thus the heat build-up is increased. As a result, rolling resistance reduction performance and high-speed durability performance tend to be decreased. Accordingly, by the widths W1, W2, W3 of the electrically conductive rubber 11 being from 0.5 mm to 10.0 mm, good rolling resistance reduction performance, high-speed durability performance, and electrical resistance reduction performance are achieved in a compatible manner, and is thus preferable.

(62) As illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 18, which are enlarged views of a main part of the pneumatic tire 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the electrically conductive rubber 11 preferably has widths W1, W2, W3 in the thickness direction in a meridian cross-section of from 0.5 mm to 6.0 mm.

(63) When the widths W1, W2, W3 of the electrically conductive rubber 11 have a dimension of less than 0.5 mm, electrical resistance is low, and thus the electrical resistance reduction effect tends to be decreased. By the widths W1, W2, W3 of the electrically conductive rubber 11 having a dimension of 6.0 mm or less, an increase in heat build-up is suppressed by the volume of the electrically conductive rubber 11 being prevented from being too large. Accordingly, by the widths W1, W2, W3 of the electrically conductive rubber 11 being from 0.5 mm to 6.0 mm, good rolling resistance reduction performance, high-speed durability performance, and electrical resistance reduction performance are achieved in a compatible manner, and is thus more preferable.

(64) FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment in which the widths W1, W2, W3 of the electrically conductive rubber 11 are equal from the first end 11a to the second end 11b. FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment in which the electrically conductive rubber 11 widens to the width W1 at a position between the first end 11a to the second end 11b. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14, the width W2 of the first end 11a and the width W3 of the second end 11b should be 0.5 mm or greater and the width W1 at the widened position should be 10.0 mm or less (preferably 6.0 mm or less). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14, the electrically conductive rubber 11 is increased in width W1 at its middle portion. This allows electricity to flow easily and thus enables a significant electrical resistance reduction effect to be obtained. FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment in which the width W2 of the first end 11a and the width W3 of the second end 11b are equal and greater than the width W1 at a position between the first end 11a and the second end 11b. FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment in which the electrically conductive rubber 11 widens at the first end 11a to the width W2. FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment in which the electrically conductive rubber 11 widens at the second end 11b to the width W3. Additionally, FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment in which the width W2 of the first end 11a and the width W3 of the second end 11b are greater than the width W1 at a position between the first end 11a and the second end 11b, and the width W2 of the first end 11a is greater than the width W3 of the second end 11b. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 15 to 18, the width W1 at a position between the first end 11a and the second end 11b should be 0.5 mm or greater, and the width W2 of the first end 11a and the width W3 of the second end 11b should be 10.0 mm or less (preferably 6.0 mm or less). In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 15 to 18, the width W2 of the first end 11a and the width W3 of the second end 11b of the electrically conductive rubber 11 that is in contact with the rim R side and the tire component side are greater than the width W1 at a position between the first end 11a and the second end 11b. As a result, the flow of electricity in and out is improved due to the greater contact area, and thus a significant electrical resistance reduction effect can be obtained. Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18, the width W2 of the first end 11a and the width W3 of the second end 11b are greater than the width W1 at a position between the first end 11a and the second end 11b, and the width W2 of the first end 11a is greater than the width W3 of the second end 11b. As a result, the flow of electricity in from the rim R side is improved, and thus a more significant electrical resistance reduction effect can be obtained.

(65) According to the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, in the electrically conductive rubber 11, in a meridian cross-section, the width W2 of the first end 11a in the thickness direction is preferably greater than the maximum width W1 at a position between the first end 11a and the second end 11b. Additionally, in the electrically conductive rubber 11, in a meridian cross-section, the width W3 of the second end 11b in the thickness direction is preferably greater than the maximum width W1 at a position between the first end 11a and the second end 11b. Furthermore, in the electrically conductive rubber 11, in a meridian cross-section, the width W2 of the first end 11a in the thickness direction is preferably greater than the width W3 of the second end 11b.

(66) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the electrically conductive rubber 11 is preferably disposed at a plurality of positions.

(67) By disposing the electrically conductive rubber 11 at a plurality of positions, a significant electrical resistance reduction effect can be obtained. By disposing at least the first end 11a of the electrically conductive rubber 11 in the range from position A to position E or in the range from position F to position G where contact pressure with the rim R is comparatively great as illustrated in FIG. 11, an electrical resistance reduction effect can be obtained, and is thus preferable. In particular, by disposing a plurality of the electrically conductive rubbers 11 at a plurality of positions so that at least the first ends 11a are disposed in the range from position A to position E where contact pressure with the rim R is great, an electrical resistance reduction effect can be obtained, and is thus more preferable. Furthermore, by disposing a plurality of the electrically conductive rubbers 11 at a plurality of positions so that at least the first ends 11a are disposed in the range from position C to position D, which corresponds to a lower portion of the bead core 51 (inward in the tire radial direction) where contact pressure with the rim R is great, an electrical resistance reduction effect can be obtained, and is thus even more preferable.

(68) Additionally, in the pneumatic tire 1 of the present embodiment, the loss tangent tan δ at 60° C. of the coating rubber of the carcass layer 6 and the side rubber 4A of the sidewall portion 4 is preferably 0.12 or less. The electrical resistance value of the coating rubber of the carcass layer 6 and the side rubber 4A of the sidewall portion 4 is preferably 1×10.sup.7 Ω.Math.cm or greater. Note that the loss tangent tan δ at 60° C. is measured using a sample from the pneumatic tire 1.

(69) According to this pneumatic tire 1, by defining the coating rubber of the carcass layer 6 and the side rubber 4A of the sidewall portion 4 as described above, a low heat build-up rubber can be used as the coating rubber of the carcass layer 6 and the side rubber 4A of the sidewall portion 4. As a result, the effect of significant improvement in rolling resistance reduction performance and the high-speed durability performance can be obtained, and also an improvement in heat sag resistance performance, which is a factor in high-speed steering stability performance, can be obtained.

EXAMPLES

(70) In the examples, performance tests for electrical resistance reduction performance using the tire electrical resistance value, rolling resistance reduction performance, and high-speed durability performance (with a camber applied) were performed on a plurality of types of different specifications (see FIGS. 19A-19C).

(71) The pneumatic tires (test tires) used in the performance tests had a tire size of 235/45R19, were assembled on a regular rim of 19×8J, and were inflated to the regular internal pressure (250 kPa).

(72) Here, “regular rim” refers to a “standard rim” defined by the Japan Automobile Tyre Manufacturers Association Inc. (JATMA), a “Design Rim” defined by the Tire and Rim Association, Inc. (TRA), or a “Measuring Rim” defined by the European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO). “Regular internal pressure” refers to “maximum air pressure” defined by JATMA, a maximum value given in “tire load limits at various cold inflation pressures” defined by TRA, or “inflation pressures” defined by ETRTO. “Regular load” refers to “maximum load capacity” defined by JATMA, a maximum value given in “tire load limits at various cold inflation pressures” defined by TRA, or “load capacity” defined by ETRTO.

(73) For the evaluation of electrical resistance reduction performance, which is the tire electrical resistance value, a voltage of 1000 V was applied under conditions of 23° C. temperature and 50% humidity and the resistance value between the tread surface and the rim was measured and expressed as the electrical resistance value Ω.Math.cm. In the evaluation, smaller values indicate superior electrical discharge properties and superior electrical resistance reduction performance.

(74) For the evaluation of rolling resistance reduction performance, the tires were put on an indoor drum testing machine, and the resistance at a speed of 50 km/h when loaded with 4 kN was measured. Then, the measurement results were expressed as index values with the result of the conventional example being defined as the reference (100). In the evaluation, larger index values indicate less rolling resistance and thus superior rolling resistance reduction performance.

(75) For the evaluation of high-speed durability performance, the test tires were inflated to 120% the specified internal pressure and subjected to drying degradation for five days in an 80° C.-temperature environment. Thereafter, the test tires were imparted with specified internal pressure and put on a 1707-mm-diameter drum test machine with a camber applied. The test was started at a speed of 120 km/h and a load of 5 kN applied to the test tires. Every 24 hours, the speed was increased by 10 km/h until the tire failed. The distance traveled until failure was measured. The results were expressed as index values with the result of the conventional example being defined as the reference (100). In the evaluation, larger index values indicate superior high-speed durability performance.

(76) As indicated in FIGS. 19A-19C, the pneumatic tire of the conventional example and the pneumatic tire of the comparative example do not include an electrically conductive rubber. The pneumatic tire of the comparative example includes a ground tread rubber that passes through a cap tread rubber and an undertread rubber of a tread portion. The ground tread rubber includes a first end and a second end of identical width. The first end is exposed on the tread surface. The second end is disposed in contact with a belt layer or a belt reinforcing layer. The pneumatic tires of Working Examples 1 to 9 include the electrically conductive rubber illustrated in FIG. 8. The pneumatic tire of Working Example 10 includes the electrically conductive rubber illustrated in FIG. 7. The pneumatic tire of Working Example 11 includes the electrically conductive rubber illustrated in FIG. 5. The pneumatic tire of Working Example 12 includes the electrically conductive rubber illustrated in FIG. 6. The pneumatic tires of Working Examples 1, 2, 5, and 6 include a belt edge cushion rubber. The pneumatic tires of Working Examples 1 to 4 do not include a ground tread rubber. The pneumatic tires of Working Examples 5 to 12 include a ground tread rubber.

(77) It can be seen from the test results indicated in FIGS. 19A-19C that the pneumatic tires of Working Examples 1 to 12 have good rolling resistance reduction performance, high-speed durability performance, and electrical resistance reduction performance, which is the tire electrical resistance value, in a compatible manner.