WHEEL WEIGHT ATTACHMENT SYSTEM

Abstract: The invention provides a wheel weight/tape article (22) that can be used to balance a wheel (30), wherein the article (22) does not leave adhesive residue on the wheel (30) upon removal. Also provided is a method of using the article (22) to balance a wheel (30).

Description: WHEEL WEIGHT ATTACHMENT SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to novel articles that can be used to balance tires, which articles can be firmly attached to a wheel surface and later removed without damaging the wheel surface or leaving adhesive residue or other tape residue thereon. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A number of wheel weight attachment systems have been proposed and used to improve the balance of a rotating wheel having a conventionally pneumatic tire mounted thereon. Balanced tires run smoother, reducing vibration and improving steering and braking. The wheel weight is typically attached to the rim flange. Such a circumferentially extending weight is selectively placed on the rim at a location generally corresponding to the radial location indicated by the tire balancer. Disadvantages exist with respect to known attachment techniques, most of them associated with the prospect of removal when readjustments are later needed. Molded lead wheel weights with steel attachment clips have long been used to balance tires by compensating for imperfect airtight distribution in tires. The use of clip weights results in the contact of two dissimilar metals (that is the clip and the wheel). In severe winter and salt driving conditions the potential for corrosion exists. Clip weights can also potentially damage wheels by inflicting scratches thereon. These scratches can become noticeable upon removal or relocation of the wheel weight. Aluminum wheels for automobile have become the norm, replacing steel wheels and hub caps. Aluminum wheels are lighter and because they are molded rather than stamped, can be more decorative. Steel clip wheel weights are being produced for use on aluminum wheels, but are often not used on the exterior side of the wheel because they are visually unappealing when not hidden behind hub caps. Wheels that have been balanced by putting weight on the inside or undercarriage side of the wheels only are a compromise between best handling and appearance. Steel clip weights promote corrosion and pitting of the aluminum wheel surface where they are attached. Corrosion damage becomes apparent when old tires and wheel weights are replaced. New tires seldom require wheel weights at exactly the same locations as the tires being replaced, therefore, corrosion damage must either be repaired or accepted as is by the vehicle owner. Repair costs often approach the replacement cost of the aluminum wheels. Foam tapes have been used to attach wheel weights to wheels such as aluminum wheels. Adhesive backed wheel weights are generally made by laminating a foam tape to lead sheet stock of about 1/8" (0.3 cm) thickness and stamping out i ounce (7.1 g) segments. The use of foam tape to attach wheel weights to a wheel is disadvantageous in that the foam tape can leave tape remnants such as backing residue and adhesive residue on the wheel surface upon removal. The residue is unsightly and can become even more unsightly as the residue picks up dust, dirt, etc. In addition, the wheel substrate can potentially be damaged by the process of removing these residues (via brushes, blades, solvents, for example). JP 58152612 A uses an adhesive to attach a two part weight system wherein the one upper layer is a relatively high molecular weight rubber and the lower rubber layer is a low tensile strength material that facilitates removal of the weight balancing composite. These are recommended for aircraft wheels but also can apply to other transportation wheels. WO 93/17315 and U.S. Patent No. 4,269,451 suggest other methods of avoiding the problem of wheel weight removal. WO 93/17315 discloses a device for attaching a balancing weight to the wheel of a vehicle. According to the reference, in order to create a device for mechanically attaching a balancing weight consisting of weight and a retaining spring to the wheel of a vehicle, the retaining spring being inserted between the tire and the rim flange and the device being provided with a detachable mounting system to accommodate the retaining spring, said system enabling mechanical mounting of a balancing weight on a vehicle weight, it is proposed that the device should comprises a shock or percussion unit mounted behind the detachable mounting system which when actuated pushes the balancing weight out of the mounting system. U.S. Patent No. 4,269,451 discloses a balancing system for a wheel having a tire mounted on the rim thereof which consists of at least one and as many as three balancing components including rim mounted weights, an annular member including a balancing medium positioned within the rim, and a shock absorber between the wheel and brake drum. The weights are relatively narrow in width and elongated in length and are mounted on the rim to extend predominantly radially of the tire sidewall rather than circumferentially. The annular member is suspended from the tire within the radially outer portion of the air cavity of the tire and during rotation of the tire automatically corrects for imbalance by circumferential migration of the balancing medium and/or annular member to the area of imbalance and/or by radial displacement of the annular member. Copending concurrently filed Wollner, International Application No. filed , (Attorney's Docket No. 53529PCT9A), entitled "WHEEL WEIGHT/TAPE ARTICLE AND A METHOD OF USING", teaches wheel weight/tape articles, the tapes having a tab. The wheel weights are removed by grasping the tab and pulling at an angle of less than 35 ° from the wheel surface. The advantage is that the wheel weights can be removed cleanly (without leaving adhesive or other tape residue) without damage to wheel surfaces. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A need exists for a wheel weight application system which does not damage or leave adhesive residue on the wheel surface. In some situations it is desirable to have a wheel weight application system which removes cleanly and which does not employ a tab. In some situations it is more visually appealing not to have a tab present. Also an exposed tab would be subject to the weather and other conditions which the wheel itself is subjected to. We have discovered a wheel weight/tape article which can be cleanly removed which does not have a tab. The tape of the wheel weight/tape article of the present invention is selected to provide cohesive strength in excess of adhesive strength to the wheel surface (such as an acrylic clear coated aluminum wheel surface) and such that the adhesion of the tape to the wheel weight is greater than the adhesion of the tape to the wheel. The wheel weight/tape article of the present invention can be cleanly removed from the wheel surface by lifting the weight with a tool such as pliers away from the wheel. In addition, various reflective and/or decorative layer(s) can be added to the surface of the weight to make its appearance either blend into that of the wheel (such as an aluminum wheel) or stand out as a decorative article or functional reflective safety device. The present invention provides an easily removable, pressure-sensitive adhesive tape/wheel weight article. The article of the invention comprises: (a) a tape, wherein the tape has a first major surface and a second opposing major surface; and (b) a weight bonded to the first major surface of the tape; wherein the tape is constructed such that the first major surface of the tape has an adhesive strength to the weight sufficiently greater than its adhesive strength of the second major surface of the tape to a wheel, such that the tape is capable of being firmly bonded to the wheel via the second major surface of the tape, and the tape further being capable of being debonded from the wheel but not the weight when the weight is lifted away from the wheel, and wherein the tape has a cohesive strength greater than its adhesive strength to the wheel. In one embodiment the tape may comprise a backing (such as a plastic or elastic backing) with adhesive coated on either side. When the tape comprises a backing with adhesive layers on either side the adhesive layers should be selected such that they do not separate from the backing when the wheel weight/tape article is removed from the wheel to which it has been applied. In another embodiment the tape may comprise a single layer or multiple layers of adhesive. Thus the tape may comprise for example, a double layer of adhesive. Other tape embodiments may be useful according to the present invention. The article of the invention can be firmly bonded to a wheel and can then be removed, for example, by using a simple tool (such as pliers) to lift the weight away from the wheel. Typically the lifting is done by lifting one side of the wheel weight and continuing the lifting motion as the adhesive debonds along its length towards the opposite side of the weight without leaving traces of adhesive residue, backing residue, other tape residue on the wheel surface and without imparting any perceptible damage to the surface of the wheel. The term "lifting" as used herein does not mean the use of a tool in a manner in which the tool would rest on the wheel surface and be used to lift off the wheel weight and potentially damage the wheel. Rather "lifting" refers to an action taken with a tool such as pliers wherein the tool may be used to grip the wheel weight but does not rest on the wheel. The tool, such as pliers may be used, for example, to lift the weight at one end wherein the opposite end of the weight from the end being lifted actually has pressure applied thereto as the lifting motion continues until the weight is free of the wheel. Depending on the specific embodiment the adhesive of each layer of a tape having a backing and two outer adhesive layers can be of equivalent or different chemical composition, of equivalent or different thickness, and coated or laminated in the same or different manner. Likewise adhesive layer(s) in a multiple layer adhesive tape can be of equivalent or different chemical composition, of equivalent or different thickness, and coated or laminated in the same or different manner. The present invention also relates to a method of balancing a wheel utilizing the wheel weight/tape article of the invention. The method of the present invention comprises the steps of: (a) providing an article comprising: (I) a tape, wherein the tape has a first major surface and a second opposing major surface; and (II) a weight bonded to the first major surface of the tape; wherein the tape is constructed such that the first major surface of the tape has an adhesive strength to the weight sufficiently greater than its adhesive strength of the second major surface of the tape to a wheel, such that the tape is capable of being firmly bonded to the wheel via the second major surface of the tape, and the tape further being capable of being debonded from the wheel but not the weight when the weight is lifted away from the wheel, and wherein the tape has a cohesive strength greater than its adhesive strength to the wheel; and (b) bonding the article to a wheel via the adhesive on the second major surface of the article. The method may optionally further comprise the step (c) of subsequently removing the article from the wheel by lifting the weight away from the wheel, wherein no or substantially no pressure sensitive adhesive from the article remains on the wheel. After being applied to a wheel, the adhesive tape of the adhesive tape/wheel weight article becomes firmly bonded to the wheel, but the adhesive tape/wheel weight article can be easily removed without damaging the wheel surface by simply prying or lifting the wheel weight away from the wheel. The present invention is advantageous in that it provides an article capable of balancing wheels with little or no, most typically no, scratching (as a result of application and removal of the wheel weight(s)) and little or no, most typically no, adhesive residue upon removal. Brief Description of the Drawings FIGURE la is an enlarged side view in cross-section of a first embodiment of an adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly in accordance with the present invention; FIGURE lb is an enlarged side view in cross-section of a second embodiment of an adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly in accordance with the present invention; FIGURE lc is an enlarged side view in cross-section of another embodiment of an adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly in accordance with the present invention; FIGURE Id is an enlarged side view in cross-section of another embodiment of an adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly in accordance with the present invention; FIGURE le is an enlarged side view in cross-section of another embodiment of an adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly in accordance with the present invention; FIGURE If is an enlarged side view in cross-section of another embodiment of an adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly in accordance with the present invention; FIGURE lg is an enlarged side view in cross-section of another embodiment of an adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly in accordance with the present invention; FIGURE 2 is an enlarged side view in cross-section of the adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly as shown in Figure 1 a, just prior to lifting the wheel weight. FIGURE 3 is an enlarged side view in cross-section similar to Figure 2, but with the wheel weight partially lifted and with adhesive layer 28 partially debonded from the wheel surface 30. FIGURE 4 is a perspective view of the article of FIGURE la attached to a wheel; and FIGURE 5 is a side view of the article of FIGURE la attached to the wheel of an automobile. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Tapes Used According to the Present Invention The present invention utilizes a double sided adhesive tape which is adhered to a wheel weight and which can be adhered to a wheel surface and thereafter removed from the wheel (while still adhered to the wheel weight) without substantially damaging or leaving substantial adhesive residue on the wheel surface. In these double-sided adhesive tape constructions, the adhesive surface bonded to the wheel debonds upon removal of the wheel weight (such as by lifting of the wheel weight). The adhesive surface of the tape bonded to the wheel weight remains bonded to the wheel weight upon removal of the wheel weight/tape article from the wheel. A useful backing may be selected, for example, from the group consisting of films, foams, and laminates of films and/or foams. Plastic backings are useful in tapes used according to the present invention. A plastic backing upon stretching is permanently deformed and has relatively low elastic recovery. The tape backing may comprise elastic materials. Elastic, as opposed to plastic materials described above, means materials that are stretchable without substantial plastic deformation and which have high elastic recovery after stretching and release. When the tape is a solid adhesive with no backing the tape can comprise, for example, a single layer of pressure sensitive adhesive providing both of the adhesively aggressive portions of the outer surfaces. Preferably, the tape includes a polymeric backing layer having a layer of aggressive pressure sensitive adhesive along each of its opposite major surfaces defining one of its adhesively aggressive portions of its outer surfaces. That polymeric backing layer can, for example, be of polymeric film, polymeric foam, polymeric film laminated to polymeric foam, or two layers of polymeric film laminated on opposite sides of a layer of polymeric foam. For example, the backing may be a film/foam laminate, a film/foam/film laminate, or a foam/film/foam laminate. The tapes used according to the invention may optionally be stretchable but it is not required. Although the type may be of length and width such that it extends past the weight(s) attached to it, typically the length and width of the tape are the same as the weight(s) attached thereto, as there is no need for a "tab" portion to extend out for grasping since removal is accomplished by lifting up the wheel weight. The tape may have dimensions of length and width slightly less then the wheel weight(s) but this is less preferred since the closer the tape dimensions to the weight dimensions typically the better holding strength. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments With reference to the Figures, like numerals are used to designate like components throughout. In Fig. la a first adhesive tape/wheel weight article and wheel assembly will be described. In Fig. la the adhesive tape/wheel weight article is shown as 3. The adhesive tape construction 10 is particularly designed for lifting the wheel weight, to effect debonding of the adhesive layer attached to the wheel from the wheel, as will be more fully described below. The tape 10 comprises a backing layer 24 and adhesive layers 26 and 28 of the same or different pressure- sensitive adhesive compositions on opposite major surfaces thereof. Adhesive layer 26 is adhered to wheel weight 22. Adhesive layer 28 is preferably protected by a liner (not shown) respectively, before the adhesive tape/wheel weight article is put into use. Adhesive layer 28 is adhered to wheel 30. Adhesive layer 26 preferably corresponds with the surface of the wheel weight 22 to which it is adhered. Likewise, adhesive layer 28 preferably corresponds to the surface of the wheel 30 to which it is adhered. As illustrated in Fig. la, the backing layer 24 comprises a polymeric foam layer. The backing layer 24 can alternatively comprise a polymeric film layer. The choice of polymeric foam or polymeric film depends on the specific requirements for the tape 10. Polymeric foams can be chosen to optimize conformability and resiliency properties which are helpful when the tape 10 is to be adhered to a wheel weight 22 or wheel 30 having surface irregularities. Polymeric films may be used instead to increase load bearing strength and rupture strength of the tape 10; however, films are more suitable when the wheel weight 22 and wheel 30 are both very smooth. Laminates of films and/or foams may also be employed. As an alternative, solid adhesives can be used instead of the combination of a film or foam with two adhesive layers. Examples thereof include rubber-based and acrylate-based solid adhesives. Fig. lb is identical to Fig. la except that the tape 15 comprises a double layer of adhesive, the adhesive layer being in contact with the wheel weight 22 identified as 33 and the adhesive layer in contact with the wheel 30 identified as 35. The wheel weight/tape article is identified as 17. Fig. lc is identical to Fig. lb except that the tape is not a backing with adhesive coated on either side but rather comprises a single layer of adhesive 2. One side of solid adhesive layer 2 is attached to wheel weight 22, and the other side of adhesive layer 2 is attached to wheel 30. The wheel weight/tape article is identified as 19. Fig. Id is identical to Fig. la except that a different tape 100 is used. The wheel weight/tape article is identified as 101. With respect to Fig. Id, tape 100 comprises a polymeric foam layer 102 and a polymeric film layer 104 adhered to one another by a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive 106. Alternatively, foam layer 102 and film layer 104 could be otherwise laminated by heat or by co-extrusion, or the like. Polymeric film layer 104 may be used to increase the load bearing strength and rupture strength of the tape 100, particularly where polymeric foam layer 102 lacks properties otherwise required in a backing to permit removal by lifting. Inclusion of the film layer 104 therefore permits greater latitude in the selection of foam layer 102 to optimize, for example, the conformability and resiliency properties. The foam layer 102, film layer 104, and pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 106 constitute the backing of the tape 100. Foam layer 102 and film layer 104 also have adhesive layers 108 and 110, respectively, of the same or different pressure-sensitive adhesive compositions coated thereon for adhering tape 100 to wheel weight 22 and wheel surface 30. Fig. 2 is an enlarged side view in cross-section of the adhesive tape/wheel weight article 3 and wheel 30 as shown in Figure la, just prior to lifting the wheel weight 22. Fig. 3 is an enlarged side view in cross-section similar to Figure 2, but with the wheel weight 22 partially lifted and with adhesive layer 28 partially debonded from the wheel surface 30. Alternatives to the employment of polymeric film layer 104 to provide the same increase in load bearing strength and rupture strength would be conventional reinforcement scrims such as non-woven scrims, plastic meshes, or the like, which should also exhibit the relevant characteristics needed for the above-described embodiment. Fig. le is identical to Fig la except for the tape 203. The wheel weight/tape article is identified as 211 In Fig. le the backing comprises a laminated film/foam layer 202 which is itself comprised of a polymeric foam layer 204 and a polymeric film layer 206. Preferably, polymeric foam layer 204 and polymeric film layer 206 are heat laminated to one another, although other conventional lamination methods or co-extrusion methods can be utilized, including the use of any number of adhesives. A polymeric film layer 208 is further adhered to the film/foam layer 202 by a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive composition 210. In this construction, film/foam layer 202, polymeric film layer 208, and pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 210 constitute the tape backing. Foam layer 204 and film layer 208 bear on their major surfaces adhesive layers 212 and 214 of the same or different adhesive compositions for adhering the tape 200 to wheel weight 22 and wheel surface 30. Suitable materials for the foam layer 204 and film layer 206 can be any materials that are generally suitable for tape backings and can be chosen to optimize the characteristics noted above. Preferably, layer 204 comprises a polymeric foam material. Likewise, film layer 206 preferably comprises a polymeric film. Other suitable backing materials may include paper layers or paper products, non-woven webs, foils, and the like. Fig. If is identical to Fig. la except for the tape 300. The wheel weight tape article is identified as 301. The tape 300 comprises a backing made up of a foam/film/foam laminate including polymeric foam layer 302, polymeric foam layer 304 and polymeric film layer 306. Film layer 306 can be conventionally laminated to, co-extruded with, or adhered to foam layers 302 and 304, similarly or differently from one another. Foam layers 302 and 304 bear on their major surfaces adhesive layers 314 and 312 of the same or different adhesive compositions for adhering the tape 300 to a wheel weight 22 and a wheel surface 30. The backing may, for example, be a foam/film/foam backing. The foam layers, which can be the same or different, to be collectively or individually optimized for conformability and resiliency to their respective surfaces for adherence. The film layer can be selected to enhance elongation, load bearing strength, and rupture strength. Fig. lg is identical to Fig. la except for the tape. In Fig. lg the backing is a film/foam/film laminate including a polymeric film layer 515, a polymeric foam layer 516 and a polymeric film layer 517. The film layers 515 and 517 can be conventionally laminated to, co-extruded with, or adhered to the opposite sides of the foam layer 516. The foam layer 516 can be optimized for conformability and resiliency to facilitate adhesion of the adhesive layers 510 and 511 to surfaces such as those of the wheel weight 501 and the wheel surface 502. The film layers 515 and 517 can be selected to enhance elongation, load bearing strength, and rupture strength. In view of the foregoing embodiments, it is evident that many modifications for other embodiments are possible combining various layers which are together optimized for a particular application. In general, foams are preferred to add resiliency and conformability, while films improve load bearing and rupture strength. For components of backing layers, the combined backing must be of sufficient tensile strength so as not to rupture during debonding. Other materials may be selected based on mechanical properties, surface finish or release characteristics. It is also contemplated that more layers (films, foams, etc.) can be provided in any number of ways depending on the application. The removal of a wheel weight 22 from a wheel surface 30, is illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. Starting with Figure 2, a differential lifting force F is applied to the wheel weight 22. Figure 2 shows the tape 10 just before any debonding of adhesive layer 28. As continued force F is applied to the wheel weight 22, and as shown in Figure 3, a progressive debonding of adhesive layer 28 from the wheel surface 30 occurs. Figure 3 shows such a progressive debonding of adhesive layer 28 towards the opposite side of the adhesive layer 28. As can be seen, as the wheel weight 22 is lifted at one end, the adhesive layer 28 pulls away from the wheel surface 30 and debonds. As lifting continues (not shown) adhesive layer 28 entirely releases the wheel weight/tape article 3. Backings A backing is not required in the tapes used according to the present invention as the tape may be a solid adhesive. Representative examples of materials suitable for either a polymeric foam or solid polymeric film layer in the backing of the tape useful according to this invention of the type utilizing a plastic backing include polyolefins, such as polyethylene, including high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and linear ultra low density polyethylene, polypropylene, and polybutylenes; vinyl copolymers, such as polyvinyl chlorides, both plasticized and unplasticized, and polyvinyl acetates; olefinic copolymers, such as ethylene/methacrylate copolymers, ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymers, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers, and ethylene/propylene copolymers; acrylic polymers and copolymers; polyurethanes; and combinations of the foregoing. Mixtures or blends of any plastic or plastic and elastomeric materials such as polypropylene/polyethylene, polyurethane/polyolefin, polyurethane/polycarbonate, polyurethane/polyester, can also be used. Polymeric foam layers for use in the plastic backing of the tapes useful according to the invention generally will have a density of about 2 to about 30 pounds per cubic foot (about 32 to about 481 kg/m 3 ). Preferred for plastic polymeric foam layers in the backing of the tapes useful according to the invention are polyolefin foams. Polymeric foam layers are most preferably polyolefin foams available under the trade designations Volextra™ and Volara™ from Voltek, Division of Sekisui America Corporation, Lawrence, Massachusetts. Elastomeric materials suitable as backings for tapes useful in accordance with the present invention include styrene-butadiene copolymer, polychloroprene (neoprene), nitrile rubber, butyl rubber, polysulfide rubber, cis-i,4-polyisoprene, ethylene-propylene terpolymers (EPDM rubber), silicone rubber, polyurethane rubber, polyisobutylene, natural rubber, acrylate rubber, thermoplastic rubbers such as styrene butadiene block copolymer and styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer and TPO rubber materials. Solid polymeric film backings are preferably selected from polyethylene and polypropylene films, with the most preferred materials being unoriented linear low density and ultra low density polyethylene films. A preferred polyethylene film is that available under the trade designation XMAX™ 161 from Consolidated Thermoplastics Company, Schaumburg, Illinois. It is also believed that plastics which have low extension characteristics such as polyester, cellulose acetate, polyimide, etc. would be useful as backings. It is also believed that metal foils such as aluminum foil would be useful as backings. The backing may vary in overall thickness so long as it possesses sufficient integrity to be processable and handleable and provides the desired performance in respect to properties for debonding the tape of the wheel weight/tape article from the wheel surface but not the weight as the weight is lifted away from the wheel. The specific overall thickness selected for a backing will depend upon the physical properties of the polymeric foam layer or layers and any solid polymeric film layer forming the backing. A plastic polymeric film layer such as is contained in the constructions of Figs, la, Id, le, If, and lg preferably will be about 0.4 to 10 mils in thickness, and will most preferably be about 0.4 to 6 mils in thickness. Adhesives The adhesive layer that contacts the wheel weight and the adhesive layer that contacts the wheel can be the same or different. Typically they would be different. Regardless of their similarity or dissimilarity the adhesive strength of the adhesive in contact with the wheel weight to the wheel weight should be greater than the adhesive strength of the adhesive in contact with the wheel to the wheel. (In the case of the wheel weight/tape article, this can be determined by applying the wheel weight tape article to an acrylic clear coated aluminum wheel and subsequently removing the article, such as by lifting the wheel weight from one end as shown and explained in Figs. 2 and 3). The adhesive strength of an adhesive is substrate specific in many cases. If the same adhesive is used on either side of the tape it should be selected such that the adhesive strength of the adhesive to the wheel weight is greater than the adhesive strength of the adhesive to the wheel. The adhesive of the adhesive layers, can comprise any pressure-sensitive adhesive, with the particular adhesion properties being dependent on the use of the tape, with the preferred adhesion properties of the tape generally ranging from about 4 N/dm to about 200 N/dm, preferably from about 25 N/dm to about 100 N/dm, at a peel angle of 180°, measured according to PSTC-1 and PSTC-3 and ASTM D 903-83 at a peel rate of 12.7 cm/min. Adhesives having higher peel adhesion levels usually require backings having higher tensile strength. Adequate testing should be conducted to verify that the adhesive tape/wheel weight construction and placement is sufficient to withstand weather conditions, wheel rotations, road conditions and safety requirements. Pressure-sensitive adhesives which may be suitable for the article of the present invention include tackified rubber adhesives, such as natural rubber; olefins; silicones; synthetic rubber adhesives such as polyisoprene, polybutadiene, and styrene-isoprene-styrene, styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene and styrene-butadiene- styrene block copolymers, and other synthetic elastomers; and tackified or untackified acrylic adhesives such as copolymers of isooctylacrylate and acrylic acid, which can be polymerized by radiation, solution, suspension, or emulsion techniques. Preferred are synthetic rubber adhesives or acrylics. The thickness of each adhesive layer when a backing is employed typically ranges from about 0.6 mils to about 40 mils (about 0.015 mm to about 1.0 mm), preferably from about 1 mils to about 16 mils (about 0.025 mm to about 0.41 mm). When a backing is not employed typically the total thickness of a solid adhesive tape ranges from about 0.5 to about 2 mm. The exposed adhesive layer of the wheel weight/tape article may be laminated to a conventional release liner prior to use. Adhesives for adhering one polymeric foam layer to either another polymeric foam layer or a solid polymeric film layer include those pressure-sensitive adhesive compositions described above. Preferably the adhesive layer for adjoining one polymeric layer of the backing to another will be about 1 to 10 mils (about 0.025 to 0.25 mm) in thickness. Other methods of adhering the polymeric layers of the backing to one another include such conventional methods as co-extrusion or heat welding. The tape used according to the present invention having a backing can be produced by any conventional method for preparing pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes. For example, the adhesive can either be directly coated onto the backing, or it can be formed as a separate layer and then later laminated to the backing. Wheel Weight/Wheels A variety of wheel weights can be used according to the present invention. The wheel weight typically is symmetrical in shape and typically has at least one flat surface or curved surface that allows ready attachment to the wheel surface. The wheel weight typically comprises metal. The wheel weight most typically comprises a high density material such as lead. Typically most wheel weights are of a three dimensional rectangular shape and typically vary in weight from about ! Λ ounce to about 3 ounces (about 7 to about 85 grams). Wheels to which the article is applied may comprise, for example, steel, aluminum, aluminum/magnesium. The wheels may optionally have a clear coat (such as an acrylic clear coat) or a painted finish. The articles of the invention can be applied to different areas of the wheel. It is believed that the wheel weight/tape articles would be useful on wheels on a variety of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, etc. The weights used according to the invention are available commercially. Typically either one weight or a multiple weight section is applied to the adhesive tape. It may be possible to attach more than one separate weight section to a single tape. Decorative/Reflective Covering A decorative coating, film, or sheet can optionally be applied to the exposed wheel weight surface. An example of such a material is a reflective sheeting. Another example is a conformable film. Various reflective sheetings may be laminated to the wheel weight surface. High intensity and diamond grade sheeting may optionally be used to provide reflectivity. A film which conform to the wheel weight will likely give best results. Applying Article to Wheel One should exercise care in adequately testing the wheel weight/tape article of the invention before use to determine if the article will remain adhered to the wheel with which it is to be used under the speed, weather, potential contamination conditions, etc. which the article and wheel may be subjected to. The particular construction of the tape, e.g., the type of backing (if present), the type of adhesive composition(s), and relative position of backing (if present) and adhesive layers, may differ depending on the size of the wheel weight, the weather conditions it may be subject to, the contaminants it may be subject to, the type of vehicle the article may be attached to, etc. It is most advantageous that the wheel weight tape/article of the invention be applied to a surface of a wheel that is both clean and dry. Referring to FIG. 4 the article 3 of Fig. la is adhered to wheel weight 22 via pressure sensitive adhesive layer 26 and to wheel 602 via pressure sensitive adhesive layer 28. The wheel weight 22 can be lifted or pried off when removal of the weight 22 from the wheel 602 is desired. The tire is identified as 600. FIG. 5 shows article 3 of Fig. la of the present invention attached to the wheel 706 of a vehicle 700. The tire is identified as 702. Wheel weights bonded by means of conventional adhesive tapes are difficult, if not impossible, to remove without scraping or otherwise damaging the surface of the wall. By using articles of the present invention for mounting wheel weights, such wheel weights can be held securely in place during use and can be removed when desired without damaging the surface of the wheel or leaving unsightly residue. The adhesive layer 28 on the opposite side of the backing 24 as the wheel weight 22 is capable of firmly bonding to the wheel surface 706 which is typically metal. In order to use the wheel weight/tape article 3, typically a protective liner (not shown) is peeled to expose the layer of adhesive 28 on the side of the backing 24 opposite the wheel weight 22. The wheel weight/tape article 3 is then pressed on the wheel 706 in the desired location. In order to remove the wheel weight/tape article 3 when removal of the wheel weight/tape article is desired, the wheel weight 22 is typically lifted or pried starting at one end from the wheel 706. The adhesive layer 28 easily releases from the wheel 706. Each wheel weight/tape article of the invention can be designed to hold weights, even in excess of 15 pounds per lineal inch yet can be removed without leaving any residue on the surface of the wheel. The article of the invention should have its components selected and be tested to determine that the article can withstand the centrifugal forces or rotational forces and weather and other environmental conditions it is subjected to. The wheel weight mounting systems currently in use employ aggressive pressure-sensitive adhesives that give long adhesion durability; however, they are difficult to remove from the surface of a substrate. Methods for film removal currently in use employ heat (from a heat gun, heat lamp, or hot water) and/or organic solvents and/or scraping with a tool. Removal by heat may still leave deposits of adhesive on the substrate which must be removed with organic solvents. Solvents and peeling action may damage the surface by removing paint or other finishes. Solvents require precautions for proper ventilation, fire prevention, storage, and disposal. Some of these methods require temperatures above a minimum temperature or within a specified temperature range. Furthermore scraping can result in scratching of the wheel. The wheel weight/tape article used according to the present invention allows the use of aggressive adhesives, but provides a much simpler and easier means of removal. The wheel weight can be removed from a wheel by lifting the wheel weight as previously described. This manner of removal is clean and dry, thereby avoiding environmental, health, storage, and disposal problems associated with organic solvents. In addition, the tapes tend to leave no adhesive residue on the wheel or damage the wheel, e.g., remove paint and/or other coatings. These characteristics provide savings of both cost and time to the user. Upon removal of the tape, the damage to the wheel will be minimal or nonexistent, (typically nonexistent), and little or no (typically no) residual adhesive will remain thereon. Many tapes that provide adequate adhesion for wheel weights are not easily removable and leave behind adhesive residue on the wheel surface. Conventional tapes that are too easily removable do not provide adequate adhesion and can detach during use, and render the wheel unbalanced. The tape used according to the present invention can be removed by lifting the wheel weight away from the wheel, by for example using pliers to lift the weight at one end and continuing the lifting motion until the tape surface in contact with the wheel completely debonds from the wheel. Useful tapes according to the present invention have high adhesion and can be held firmly in place during use, yet they can be easily removed without leaving adhesive residue or damaging the surfaces to which they are bonded. The wheel weight may optionally have indentations and/or protrusions which aid the gripping ability of pliers or other tools used to remove the wheel weight/tape article. Test Methods for Testing Wheel Weight/Tape Articles of the Invention Adhesive Residue The amount of adhesive residue remaining on the wheel or other test surface was determined by visual inspection. Surface Damage The occurrence of any damage to the surface of the wheel or other test surface was determined by visual inspection Tape Properties Cohesive versus Adhesive Strength In determining whether the cohesive strength of the tape is greater than its adhesive strength to the wheel one can select a standard wheel weight such as a !Λ ounce (7.1 g) lead weight and select a standard type vehicle wheel such as a powder coated or clear coated alloy automobile wheel (such as a clear coated aluminum wheel, for example) which is clean and dry in making the determination. The wheel weight would be applied to one side of (the first major surface of) the tape and the other side of the tape (the second major surface of the tape) would be attached to the clean and dry wheel. The tape would then be removed by gripping the wheel weight with pliers and lifting as shown and described in Figs. 2 and 3 by applying a differential lifting force which lifts the weight at one end and continues until the weight is free from the wheel. If the cohesive strength of the tape is greater than its adhesive strength to the wheel the tape should release from the wheel and in a manner in which the tape does not split apart or otherwise separate. Examples The following non-limiting examples will further illustrate the wheel weight/tape articles of the invention and their use. All parts, percentages, ratios etc. in the examples and elsewhere throughout are by weight unless indicated otherwise. Example 1 A wheel weight tape/article was prepared as follows. A methyldiphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) cured polyether urethane foam backing was provided. An acrylic adhesive 90/10 isooctyl acrylate (IOA)/acrylic acid (AA) was coated on one side of the backing. The backing (which was rectangular in shape) had a thickness of 1/32 inch , a length of 15/16 inch, and a width of l Λ inch. A rubber based adhesive was coated on the other side of the backing. A l A ounce (7.1 g) lead wheel weight was provided which had dimensions of 'Λ inch by 15/16 inch (1.2 cm x 1.8 cm) and a thickness of 1/8 inch (0.3 cm). The wheel weight was attached to the rubber adhesive coated side of the tape. The other side of the tape was attached to a paint coated steel plate. The paint coated steel plate was used to simulate a wheel The weight was firmly attached to the paint coated steel plate via the tape and could not be dislodged by hand pressure in a sliding or shear mode. The weight, however, was easily and cleanly separated from the paint coated steel plate surface by a lifting motion with a pliers. The tape did not tear or separate but remained adhered to the wheel weight. The tape removed cleanly from the painted steel plate without leaving a adhesive residue. No surface damage to the paint coated steel plate was observed. Example 2 A wheel weight tape article (prepared according to the procedure of Example 1) was placed on a rotating wheel test apparatus. The article was placed on a painted steel wheel which was clean and dry. The article was placed on the underside of the wheel. The test apparatus was set at 820 tire rotations per minute. The wheel weight tape article was observed after four hours and was still attached to the wheel. The wheel weight was subsequently removed by grasping the wheel weight with pliers and applying a lifting force at one end, leaving no adhesive residue on the wheel. The tape pulled cleanly away from both the wheel weight and the painted panel to which it was applied leaving no adhesive residue behind. No surface damage of the wheel was observed. Various modifications and alterations of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this invention, and it should be understood that this invention is not to be unduly limited to the illustrative embodiments set forth herein.

Claims: What is claimed is: 1. An article comprising: (a) a tape, wherein the tape has a first major surface and a second opposing major surface; and (b) a weight bonded to the first major surface of the tape; wherein the tape is constructed such that the first major surface of the tape has an adhesive strength to the weight sufficiently greater than its adhesive strength of the second major surface of the tape to a wheel, such that the tape is capable of being firmly bonded to the wheel via the second major surface of the tape, and the tape further being capable of being debonded from the wheel but not the weight when the weight is lifted away from the wheel, and wherein the tape has a cohesive strength greater than its adhesive strength to the wheel. 2. The article of claim 1 wherein the tape comprises a backing, wherein the backing has a first major surface and a second opposing major surface, wherein the backing bears on each of the first and second major surfaces a layer of pressure- sensitive adhesive. 3. The article of claim 2 wherein the backing is selected from the group consisting of plastic and elastic backings. 4. The article of claim 2 wherein the backing is a material which is a laminate comprising of at least one layer of polymeric foam and at least one layer of polymeric film. 5. The tape of claim 2 wherein the backing is a material selected from the group consisting of polymeric film, polymeric foam, polymeric film laminated to polymeric foam, and two polymeric films laminated to opposite sides of a layer of polymeric foam. The article of claim 1 wherein the tape is a single layer of a solid adhesive. 7. The article of claim 1 wherein the weight is a metal weight of about 7 to about 85 grams. 8. The article of claim 1 wherein the weight comprises lead. 9. An assembly comprising: a wheel having the article of claim 1 bonded thereto via the second major surface of the article. 10. An assembly comprising: a vehicle having the article of claim 1 bonded to a wheel of the vehicle via second major surface of the article. 11. A method comprising the steps of: (a) providing an article comprising: (I) a tape, wherein the tape has a first major surface and a second opposing major surface; and (II) a weight bonded to the first major surface of the tape; wherein the tape is constructed such that the first major surface of the tape has an adhesive strength to the weight sufficiently greater than its adhesive strength of the second major surface of the tape to a wheel, such that the tape is capable of being firmly bonded to the wheel via the second major surface of the tape, and the tape further being capable of being debonded from the wheel but not the weight when the weight is lifted away from the wheel, and wherein the tape has a cohesive strength greater than its adhesive strength to the wheel; and (b) bonding the article to a wheel via the adhesive on the second major surface of the article. (b) applying the article to a wheel via the adhesive on the second major surface of the article. 12. The method of claim 12 which further comprises the step (c) of subsequently removing the tape from the wheel and the weight by lifting the weight away from the wheel, wherein no or substantially no pressure sensitive adhesive from the article remains on the wheel. 13. The method of claim 12 which further comprises the step (c) of subsequently removing the tape from the wheel and the weight by lifting the weight away from the wheel, wherein no pressure sensitive adhesive from the article remains on the wheel.

Inventors: GATZKE KENNETH G, WOLLNER MARK R, GATZKE, KENNETH, G., WOLLNER, MARK, R.
Applicants: GATZKE KENNETH G, MINNESOTA MINING & MFG, WOLLNER MARK R, GATZKE, KENNETH, G., MINNESOTA MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY, WOLLNER, MARK, R.
Application year: 1997
Main classification: F16F15
IPC codes: C09J7, F16F15