The Review of Selected Non-Pneumatic Tires Properties—Load Carrying Mechanism, Structure of Non-Pneumatic Tires

In recent years, non-pneumatic tires have been gaining popularity, which can be seen in the increase in research results and proposals from world-class tire manufacturers (mainly as technology demonstrators). The possibility of eliminating the need to maintain compressed air is a major factor in the development of non-pneumatic tires and their usage in vehicles. Articles and patents were reviewed in relation to the load transfer mechanism, the design of non-pneumatic tire components, and recommendations for materials. Non-pneumatic tire top loaders are a desirable type of this type of wheel compared to bottom loaders, because they transfer loads over a larger part of the wheel, which increases their load capacity. Most non-pneumatic tires consist of a rim, an elastic structure, and a shear beam/band with a tread. The rim is used to secure the elastic structure and can be fitted with vibration dampers in the form of circumferential rubber rings. The gradient elastic structure, in comparison with the homogeneous structure (same thickness or dimensions of the elements), allows the range of axle displacements to be adjusted to the desired level without the need to increase the size of the wheel, and also influences the change in the location of the maximum stresses. The shear beam/ band mimics the properties of compressed air used in pneumatic tires. The shear beam/ band made as a webbing geometry ensures uniform pressure in the contact patch. The reinforced composite shear beam/ band ensures adequate bending strength with low energy losses and a small thickness of the beam/ band. Materials commonly used in the tire industry are used as reinforcement for the shear beam/ band, which was illustrated by the results of our own research.