Patent Publication Number: US-2022234391-A1

Title: Tire having a modular tread

Description:
FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates to a tire and rim assembly for a tire, with a tire having multiple components. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a tire and rim assembly for a non-pneumatic tire having modular components. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Various tire constructions have been developed which enable a tire to run in an uninflated or underinflated condition. Non-pneumatic tires do not require inflation, while “run flat tires” may continue to operate after receiving a puncture and a complete or partial loss of pressurized air, for extended periods of time and at relatively high speeds. Non-pneumatic tires may include a plurality of spokes, a webbing, or other support structure that connects an inner ring to an outer ring. 
     In current mounting methods, a non-pneumatic tire is mounted to a rim and affixed with adhesive, such that the rim it is difficult to remove the rim from the tire without causing damage to the rim or tire. If the rim is removed from the tire, it is difficult to remove any remaining adhesive from the rim. Thus, when the tire reaches its end of life, it may be resource intensive or expensive to recover the rim. As tires and tire designs become larger, the cost of the non-reusable rims will also increase. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one embodiment, a non-pneumatic tire and rim assembly includes a non-pneumatic tire having a plurality of annular tire modules. The non-pneumatic tire has a first annular tire module coaxial with a second annular tire module. The first annular tire module includes a first inner ring, a first outer ring, first support structure extending between the first inner ring and the first outer ring, and a first circumferential tread extending about the first outer ring. The second annular tire module includes a second inner ring, a second outer ring, second support structure extending between the second inner ring and the second outer ring, and a second circumferential tread extending about the second outer ring. The first circumferential tread has a first tread pattern and the second circumferential tread has a second tread pattern that is different from the first tread pattern. The non-pneumatic tire and rim assembly also includes a rim having an outer annular surface that engages the first inner ring and the second inner ring. 
     In another embodiment, a method of assembling a tire and rim assembly, the method includes a step of providing a plurality of annular tire modules. Each annular tire module has an inner ring, an outer ring, support structure extending between the inner ring and the outer ring, and a circumferential tread extending about the outer ring. The method further includes steps of providing a rim, selecting a first annular tire module from the plurality of annular tire modules, and sliding the first annular tire module onto the rim. The method also includes steps of selecting a second annular tire module from the plurality of annular tire modules and sliding the second annular tire module onto the rim. The method further includes steps of providing a locking ring and sliding the locking ring onto the rim. 
     In yet another embodiment, a modular non-pneumatic tire includes a first annular tire module and a second annular tire module coaxial with the first annular tire module. The first annular tire module includes a first inner ring, a first outer ring coaxial with the first inner ring, first support structure extending between the first inner ring and the first outer ring, and a first circumferential tread extending about the first outer ring. The second annular tire module includes a second inner ring, a second outer ring coaxial with the second inner ring, second support structure extending between the second inner ring and the second outer ring, and a second circumferential tread extending about the second outer ring. The first and second circumferential treads are asymmetrical. The first circumferential tread has a first orientation and the second circumferential tread has a second orientation that is different from the first orientation. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       In the accompanying drawings, structures are illustrated that, together with the detailed description provided below, describe exemplary embodiments of the claimed invention. Like elements are identified with the same reference numerals. It should be understood that elements shown as a single component may be replaced with multiple components, and elements shown as multiple components may be replaced with a single component. The drawings are not to scale and the proportion of certain elements may be exaggerated for the purpose of illustration. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire and rim assembly; 
         FIG. 2  is a front view of the non-pneumatic tire and rim assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  are schematic cross-sectional views of the non-pneumatic tire and rim assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4A  is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of an annular tire module; 
         FIG. 4B  is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an annular tire module; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a rim; 
         FIG. 6  is partial cross-section of one embodiment of a tire and rim assembly; 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded cutaway view of one embodiment of a tire and rim assembly; 
         FIGS. 8A-8C  are partial front views of exemplary treads for annular tire modules; 
         FIGS. 9A-9D  are front views of exemplary non-pneumatic tires having two annular tire modules; 
         FIGS. 10A-10C  are front views of exemplary non-pneumatic tires having three annular tire modules; and 
         FIGS. 11A and 11B  are front views of exemplary non-pneumatic tires having four annular tire modules. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  provide a perspective view and front view, respectively, of one embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire and rim assembly  100 . The assembly  100  includes a non-pneumatic tire  105  having a first annular tire module  110   a  that is coaxial with a second annular tire module  110   b . The annular tire modules  110   a,b  are mounted on a rim  115 . While two annular tire modules are shown in the illustrated embodiment, alternative embodiments may include three or more tire modules. 
     The first annular tire module  110   a  includes a first circumferential tread  120   a  and the second annular tire module  110   b  includes a second circumferential tread  120   b . Each circumferential tread  120   a,b  includes a tread pattern composed of tread elements such as grooves, ribs, blocks, lugs, and sipes. The tread patterns shown in the illustrated embodiment are merely exemplary. In the illustrated embodiment, the tread pattern of the first circumferential tread  120   a  is substantially the same as the tread pattern of the second circumferential tread  120   b , and the treads are aligned in opposite orientations. In an alternative embodiment, the tread pattern of the first circumferential tread is substantially the same as the tread pattern of the second circumferential tread, and the treads are aligned in the same orientation. In another alternative embodiment, the first and second circumferential treads have different tread patterns. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second circumferential treads  120   a ,  120   b  have asymmetrical tread patterns. In an alternative embodiment, one or both of the first and second circumferential treads has a symmetrical tread pattern. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the first annular tire module  110   a  is axially spaced apart from the second annular tire module  110   b . In an alternative embodiment, the first annular tire module contacts the second annular tire module. 
     Spacing apart the annular tire modules may have several benefits, as illustrated in the schematic cross-sectional view of  FIGS. 3A and 3B . Spacing apart the annular tire modules  110   a,b  reduces the mass of the tire  105 , while maintaining wide footprint stability. Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 3A , when the tire  105  is cornering, the outer forces on the first annular tire module  110   a  are isolated from the inner forces on the second annular tire module  110   b , so that the first annular tire module  110   a  deflects by a different amount than the second annular tire module  110   b . As shown in  FIG. 3B , spacing apart the annular tire modules  110   a,b  allows for improved air flow A, resulting in improved cooling of the tire  105  as it rotates. Additionally, spacing apart the annular tire modules  110   a,b  result in higher contact pressure in the footprint of the tire, which reduces hydroplaning when the tire  105  contacts water W. 
     Additional details of the annular tire modules are shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B .  FIG. 4A  is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of an annular tire module  200  and  FIG. 4B  is a perspective view of another embodiment of an annular tire module  300 . Some details differ between the annular tire module  200  and the annular tire module  300 . For example, the annular tire module  200  has a different tread pattern from the annular tire module  300 . However, the basic components of the tire modules  200 ,  300  are substantially the same. 
     Each tire module  200 ,  300  includes an inner ring  210 ,  310 , an outer ring  220 ,  320 , and support structure  230 ,  330  extending between the inner ring  210 ,  310  and the outer ring  220 ,  320 . In the illustrated embodiment, both the inner surface of the inner ring  210 ,  310  and the outer surface of the outer ring  220 ,  320  are smooth surfaces. In an alternative embodiment, one or more of these surfaces may include grooves, ribs, or other features. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the support structure  230 ,  330  is a web. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the support structure includes a plurality of spokes. In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the support structure is a solid structure. 
     In one embodiment, the inner ring  210 ,  310 , outer ring  220 ,  320 , and support structure  230 ,  330  are constructed of the same material. In an alternative embodiment, the inner ring  210 ,  310 , outer ring  220 ,  320 , and support structure  230 ,  330  are constructed of different materials. Exemplary materials include polymeric materials and metal. One or more of the inner ring  210 ,  310 , outer ring  220 ,  320 , and support structure  230 ,  330  may include reinforcements. 
     A circumferential tread  240 ,  340  extends about the outer ring  220 ,  320 . The circumferential tread  240 ,  340  may include a shear element, such as a shear band. Alternatively, a shear layer may be disposed between the circumferential tread and the outer ring. 
     As explained above, the circumferential tread includes a tread pattern composed of tread elements such as grooves, ribs, blocks, lugs, and sipes. The circumferential tread  240 ,  340  may be affixed to the outer ring  220 ,  320  by an adhesive. Alternatively, the circumferential tread  240 ,  340  may be affixed to the outer ring  220 ,  320  by a bonding process, such as by curing. In an alternative embodiment, the separate circumferential tread is omitted and a tread pattern is instead formed directly in the outer ring. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, an inner hoop  250 ,  350  is affixed to the inner ring  210 ,  310 . An inner surface of the inner hoop  250 ,  350  has a plurality of axial grooves  260 ,  360  that define a plurality of axial ridges  270 ,  370 . The grooves  260 ,  360  and ridges  270 ,  370  may have a rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, or rounded profile. Alternatively, the grooves and ridges may form any geometric shape. In one embodiment, each of the grooves  260 ,  360  has the same shape and each of the ridges  270 ,  370  has the same shape. In an alternative embodiment, the shapes may vary. 
     The inner hoop  250 ,  350  may be constructed of metal or a polymeric material. The inner hoop  250 ,  350  may also include reinforcements. In one embodiment, the an inner hoop  250 ,  350  is constructed of the same material as the inner ring  210 ,  310 . In an alternative embodiment, the inner hoop  250 ,  350  and inner ring  210 ,  310  are constructed of different materials. 
     The inner hoop  250 ,  350  may be affixed to the inner ring  210 ,  310  by an adhesive. Alternatively, the inner hoop  250 ,  350  may be affixed to the inner ring  210 ,  310  by a bonding process, such as by curing. In an alternative embodiment, the separate inner hoop is omitted and axial grooves and ridges are instead formed directly on the inner surface of the inner ring. 
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a rim  400 . The rim  115  of  FIG. 1  may share the same features of the rim  400  of  FIG. 5 , or it may depart from the design in any of the manners discussed below. 
     The rim  400  has an outer annular surface configured to engage the inner surfaces of the annular tire modules. For example, the outer annular surface of the rim  400  may engage the inner surfaces of a first inner ring and a second inner ring, or the inner surfaces of a first inner hoop and a second inner hoop. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer annular surface of the rim  400  has a plurality of axial grooves  410  that define a plurality of axial ridges  420 . The grooves  410  and ridges  420  may have a rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, or rounded profile. Alternatively, the grooves and ridges may form any geometric shape. In one embodiment, each of the grooves  410  has the same shape and each of the ridges  420  has the same shape. In an alternative embodiment, the shapes may vary. In another alternative embodiment, the outer annular surface of the rim assembly is a smooth surface. In yet another alternative embodiment, the rim is perforated. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the rim  400  has a flange  430  at a first axial end. The second axial end of the rim  400  has no flange. The diameter of the flange  420  varies around its circumference. In an alternative embodiment, the flange has a consistent diameter. In another alternative embodiment, neither end of the rim has a flange. 
       FIG. 6  is partial cross-section of one embodiment of a tire and rim assembly  500  including the rim  400  of  FIG. 5 , and an annular tire module  600 . The annular tire module  600  may be substantially the same as one of the annular tire modules  110   a ,  110   b ,  200 ,  300  described above, or it may depart from those designs. The inner surface of the annular tire module  600  includes a plurality of axial grooves  610  that define a plurality of axial ridges  620 . 
     As can be seen from this view, the shapes of the grooves  410  of the rim  400  correspond to the shapes of ridges  620  of the inner surface of the annular tire module  600 . Likewise, the shapes of the ridges  420  of the rim  400  correspond to the shapes of grooves  610  on the inner surface of the annular tire module. Thus, the tire module  600  may slide onto the rim  400 . Lubricant may be applied to one or more of the surfaces to assist in assembling the rim  400  and the annular tire module  600 . 
     Any number of annular tire modules may be placed onto the rim. For example,  FIG. 7  is an exploded cutaway view of one embodiment of a tire and rim assembly  700  including the rim  400  and four annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d . Each of the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d  has an inner surface with grooves  720  and ridges  730  that correspond to the ridges  420  and grooves  410  of the rim  400  in the manner described above. The grooves  720  and ridges  730  of each of the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d  has substantially the same geometry as those of the other annular tire modules. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, each of the four annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d  has substantially the same diameter, the same axial width, and substantially the same support structure  740 . In alternative embodiments, one or more of the annular tire modules may have a different diameter. In another alternative embodiment, one or more of the annular tire modules may have a different axial width. In yet another alternative embodiment, one or more of the annular tire modules may have a different support structure. For example, the support structure of one or more annular tire modules may be constructed of a different material than the other annular tire modules. As another example, the geometry of the support structure of one or more annular tire modules may be different from the geometry of the other annular tire modules. In one specific example, one of the annular tire modules has spokes as a support structure, while the other annular tire modules have webbing. 
     The diameter and support structure of each annular tire module may be selected to tune the footprint and the performance of the tire. For example, it may be desirable for certain portions of a tire to have a higher stiffness than other portions. It may likewise be desirable for certain portions of a tire to have a greater diameter. Such factors may affect the performance of the assembled tire. The desired characteristics of an assembled tire may depend on other factors, such as the load on the tire and driving conditions, including temperature and precipitation. Thus a user may select tire modules and assemble a tire according to the desired characteristics of the resulting tire. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the outer annular tire modules  710   a  and  710   d  have the same first circumferential tread pattern  750   a , and the inner annular tire modules  710   b ,  710   c  have the same second circumferential tread pattern  750   b . In this embodiment, the outer annular tire modules  710   a  and  710   d  are placed on the rim  400  such that the first circumferential tread patterns  750   a  are oriented in opposite orientations. In an alternative embodiment, the outer annular tire modules are placed on the rim such that the first circumferential tread patterns are oriented in the same direction. In other alternative embodiments, the tread patterns may be varied in any combination. 
     A plurality of spacer rings  760  are also disposed on the rim  400 . Each spacer ring  760  includes a plurality of axial grooves  770  that define a plurality of axial ridges  780 . The axial grooves  770  and axial ridges  780  of the spacer rings  760  are substantially the same as the axial grooves  720  and axial ridges  730  of the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d , so that the spacer rings  760  can slide onto the rim  400  in the same manner as the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d . The diameter of each spacer ring  760  is less than the diameter of each of the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d.    
     In the illustrated embodiment, each spacer ring  760  has the same axial width. The spacer rings  760  are disposed between each pair of annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d  such that each of the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d  is spaced from the nearest annular tire module. In an alternative embodiment, spacer rings of different axial widths may be employed. Additionally, spacer rings may be omitted between some annular tire modules, thus allowing the annular tire modules to contact each other. The number and width of the spacer rings may be selected to tune the performance of the assembled tire. 
     The tire and rim assembly  700  further includes a locking ring  790  that is disposed at the second axial end of the rim  400 , opposite the flange  430  at the first axial end of the rim  400 . The locking ring  790  includes a plurality of axial grooves  792  that define a plurality of axial ridges  794 . The axial grooves  792  and axial ridges  794  of the locking ring  790  are substantially the same as the axial grooves  720  and axial ridges  730  of the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d , so that the locking ring  790  can slide onto the rim  400  in the same manner as the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d . The diameter of the locking ring  790  is less than the diameter of each of the annular tire modules  710   a ,  710   b ,  710   c ,  710   d . The diameter of the locking ring  790  may be variable, such that the locking ring  790  can be tightened and remain fixed in place at the second axial end of the rim  400 . Alternatively, the locking ring may be crimped, adhered, or otherwise bonded to the second axial end of the rim  400 . Examples of bonding methods include brazing, welding, or chemical bonding. As another alternative, mechanical fasteners such as bolts or screws may extend through holes in the locking ring and engage with threaded holes in the rim to lock the locking rim in place. 
     The locking ring  790  may be fixed onto the second axial end of the rim  400  in a temporary or permanent manner. If the locking ring  790  is fixed to the second axial end of the rim  400  in a temporary manner, the tire and rim assembly  700  may be disassembled when desired. In such an embodiment, one or more of the tire modules and spacer rings may be replaced or rearranged, and the tire and rim assembly may then be assembled in a different orientation. 
     In embodiments where the rim does not include a flange at either end, two locking rings may be employed. A first locking rim is locked onto a first axial end of the rim and a second locking rim is locked onto a second axial end of the rim. 
     In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 4-7 , all of the ridges and grooves on the outer surface of the rim and the inner surface of the annular tire modules, spacer rings, and locking ring extend in axial directions. In alternative embodiments (not shown), the ridges and grooves may be spiraled or helical shaped. Such grooves and ridges may be referred to as “rifled” grooves. The direction of the ridges and grooves of the rim, tire modules, spacer rings, and locking ring would correspond to each other, such that the tire modules, spacer rings, and locking ring may be twisted onto the rim. 
     As described above, a variety of different tread patterns may be employed on the tire modules. Each tread pattern may exhibit different performances under different conditions such as wet, dry, or snow conditions. The stiffness of each tread pattern may also differ. Thus, certain tread patterns may be more desirable for an end portion of a tire in certain conditions and other tread patterns may be more desirable for a central portion of a tire in certain conditions.  FIGS. 8A-8C  are partial front views of exemplary treads for annular tire modules. These examples a not intended to be limiting. It should be understood that the tread patterns may vary in any number of ways. 
       FIG. 8A  illustrates one example of a solid rib tire tread  800   a . The solid rib tire tread  800   a  includes a circumferential groove  810   a  that defines a first rib  820   a  and a second rib  830   a . The first rib  820   a  has a first plurality of sipes  840   a  extending laterally across the entire first rib  820   a . The second rib  830   a  has a second plurality of sipes  850   a  that partially extend into the second rib  830   a  in a lateral direction. Both of the first and second ribs  820   a ,  830   a  have linear sidewalls. 
       FIG. 8B  illustrates one example of a hybrid rib tire tread  800   b . The hybrid rib tire tread  800   b  includes a circumferential groove  810   b  that defines a first rib  820   b  and a second rib  830   b . In the illustrated embodiment, the first rib  820   b  has a first plurality of sipes  840   b  partially extending into the first rib  820   b  in a lateral direction. The second rib  830   b  has a plurality of lateral grooves  850   b  that divide the second rib  830   a  into a plurality of blocks. Each block has a pair of zigzag sipes  860   b  that extend across the block in a lateral direction. Both of the first and second ribs  820   b ,  830   b  have non-linear sidewalls. 
       FIG. 8C  illustrates one example of a blocked rib tire tread  800   c . The blocked rib tire tread  800   c  includes a circumferential groove  810   c  that defines a first rib  820   c  and a second rib  830   c . The circumferential groove  810   c  extends around the tread in a zigzag configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the first rib  820   c  has a first plurality of lateral grooves  840   c  that divide the first rib  820   c  into a first plurality of blocks. Each of the first plurality of blocks has a pair of zigzag sipes  850   c  that extend across the block in a lateral direction. The second rib  830   c  has a plurality of lateral grooves  860   c  that divide the second rib  830   c  into a second plurality of blocks. Each of the second plurality of blocks has a pair of zigzag sipes  870   c  that extend across the block in a lateral direction. The first rib  820   c  has a non-linear sidewall, while the second rib  830   c  has a linear sidewall. 
     While each of the exemplary tread patterns shown in  FIGS. 8A-8C  illustrate a tread pattern having a single circumferential groove defining two ribs, it should be understood that any number of grooves and ribs may be employed. For example, it may be desirable to provide a wider tire module with three or more ribs. It also may be desirable to provide a narrower tire module with a single rib. 
     The tire modules and rims described herein are modular, such that they may be assembled in any number of desirable combinations. Using the three exemplary tread patterns provided in  FIGS. 8A-8C ,  FIGS. 9-11  illustrate some of the different combinations that can be formed. The same nomenclature and reference numerals of  FIGS. 8A-8C  are used for convenience in  FIGS. 9-11 . It should be understood that the illustrated combinations are not limiting, and that any number of tread patterns can be assembled as any desirable combination. 
       FIGS. 9A-9D  are front views of exemplary non-pneumatic tires having two annular tire modules.  FIG. 9A  illustrates one embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  900   a  that is constructed of first and second annular tire modules  910   a  and  920   a , each of which has a solid rib tire tread  800   a . The first and second annular tire modules  910   a  and  920   a  are spaced apart and in opposite orientations, such that the first rib  820   a  of the first annular tire module  910   a  is adjacent to the first rib  820   a  of the second annular tire module  920   a . The second ribs  830   a  of the first and second annular tire modules  910   a ,  920   a  thus form the outer ribs of the non-pneumatic tire  900   a . In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first and second annular tire modules are reversed such that the second rib of the first annular tire module is adjacent to the second rib of the second annular tire module, and the first ribs of the first and second annular tire modules form the outer ribs of the non-pneumatic tire. In another alternative embodiment, the first and second annular tire modules are oriented in the same direction. 
       FIG. 9B  illustrates an alternative embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  900   b  that is constructed of first and second annular tire modules  910   b  and  920   b , each of which has a blocked rib tire tread  800   c . The first and second annular tire modules  910   b  and  920   b  are spaced apart and in opposite orientations, such that the second rib  830   c  of the first annular tire module  910   b  is adjacent to the first rib  830   c  of the second annular tire module  920   b . The first ribs  820   c  of the first and second annular tire modules  910   b ,  920   b  thus form the outer ribs of the non-pneumatic tire  900   b . In alternative embodiments (not shown), the first and second annular tire modules are reversed such that the first rib of the first annular tire module is adjacent to the first rib of the second annular tire module, and the second ribs of the first and second annular tire modules form the outer ribs of the non-pneumatic tire. In another alternative embodiment, the first and second annular tire modules are oriented in the same direction. 
       FIG. 9C  illustrates another alternative embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  900   c  that is constructed of first and second annular tire modules  910   c  and  920   c , each of which has a hybrid rib tire tread  800   b . The first and second annular tire modules  910   c  and  920   c  are spaced apart and in opposite orientations, such that the first rib  820   b  of the first annular tire module  910   c  is adjacent to the first rib  820   b  of the second annular tire module  920   c . The second ribs  830   b  of the first and second annular tire modules  910   c ,  920   c  thus form the outer ribs of the non-pneumatic tire  900   c . In another alternative embodiment, the first and second annular tire modules are oriented in the same direction. 
       FIG. 9D  illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  900   d  that is constructed of first and second annular tire modules  910   d  and  920   d , each of which has a hybrid rib tire tread  800   b . The first and second annular tire modules  910   d  and  920   d  are spaced apart and in opposite orientations, such that the second rib  830   b  of the first annular tire module  910   d  is adjacent to the second rib  830   b  of the second annular tire module  920   d . The first ribs  820   b  of the first and second annular tire modules  910   d ,  920   d  thus form the outer ribs of the non-pneumatic tire  900   d.    
     In still other alternative embodiments, an annular tire module having a solid rib tread may be used with an annular tire module having a blocked rib tread or a hybrid rib tread, in any orientation. Likewise, an annular tire module having a blocked rib tread may be used with an annular tire module having a hybrid rib tread in any orientation. 
       FIGS. 10A-10C  are front views of exemplary non-pneumatic tires having three annular tire modules.  FIG. 10A  illustrates one embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  1000   a  that is constructed of a first annular tire module  1010   a  having a hybrid rib tire tread  800   b , a second annular tire module  1020   a  having a blocked rib tire tread  800   c , and a third annular tire module  1030   a  having a hybrid rib tire tread  800   b . The annular tire modules  1010   a ,  1020   a ,  1030   a  are spaced apart from each other. 
     The first annular tire module  1010   a  is oriented such that its first rib  820   b  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1000   a . The second annular tire module  1020   a  is oriented such that its second rib  830   c  is adjacent to the second rib  830   b  of the first annular tire module  1010   a . The third annular tire module  1030   a  is oriented such that its second rib  830   b  is adjacent to the first rib  820   c  of the second annular tire module  1020   a . Thus, the first rib  820   b  of the third annular tire module  1030   a  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1000   a . In alternative embodiments, the tire modules  1010   a ,  1020   a ,  1030   a  may be arranged in any order and any orientation. 
       FIG. 10B  illustrates an alternative embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  1000   b  that is constructed of a first annular tire module  1010   b  having a solid rib tire tread  800   a , a second annular tire module  1020   b  having a blocked rib tire tread  800   c , and a third annular tire module  1030   b  having a solid rib tire tread  800   a . The annular tire modules  1010   b ,  1020   b ,  1030   b  are spaced apart from each other. 
     The first annular tire module  1010   b  is oriented such that its second rib  830   a  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1000   b . The second annular tire module  1020   b  is oriented such that its first rib  820   c  is adjacent to the first rib  820   a  of the first annular tire module  1010   b . The third annular tire module  1030   b  is oriented such that its first rib  820   a  is adjacent to the second rib  830   c  of the second annular tire module  1020   b . Thus, the second rib  830   a  of the third annular tire module  1030   b  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1000   b . In alternative embodiments, the tire modules  1010   b ,  1020   b ,  1030   b  may be arranged in any order and any orientation. 
       FIG. 10C  illustrates another alternative embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  1000   c  that is constructed of first, second, and third annular tire modules  1010   c ,  1020   c ,  1030   c , each having a solid rib tire tread  800   a . The annular tire modules  1010   c ,  1020   c ,  1030   c  are spaced apart from each other. 
     The first annular tire module  1010   c  is oriented such that its second rib  830   a  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1000   c . The second annular tire module  1020   c  is oriented such that its second rib  830   a  is adjacent to the first rib  820   a  of the first annular tire module  1010   c . The third annular tire module  1030   c  is oriented such that its first rib  820   a  is adjacent to the first rib  820   a  of the second annular tire module  1020   c . Thus, the second rib  830   a  of the third annular tire module  1030   c  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1000   c . In alternative embodiments, the tire modules  1010   c ,  1020   c ,  1030   c  may be arranged in any order and any orientation. 
     In still other alternative embodiments, three tire modules having any tread pattern may be arranged in any order and in any orientation. 
       FIGS. 11A and 11B  are front views of exemplary non-pneumatic tires having four annular tire modules.  FIG. 11A  illustrates one embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  1100   a  that is constructed of a first annular tire module  1110   a  having a solid rib tire tread  800   a , a second annular tire module  1120   a  having a blocked rib tire tread  800   c , a third annular tire module  1130   a  having a blocked rib tire tread  800   c , and a fourth annular tire module  1140   a  having a solid rib tire tread  800   a . The annular tire modules  1110   a ,  1120   a ,  1130   a ,  1140   a  are spaced apart from each other. 
     The first annular tire module  1110   a  is oriented such that its second rib  830   a  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1100   a . The second annular tire module  1120   a  is oriented such that its second rib  830   c  is adjacent to the first rib  820   a  of the first annular tire module  1110   a . The third annular tire module  1130   a  is oriented such that its first rib  820   c  is adjacent to the first rib  820   c  of the second annular tire module  1120   a . The fourth annular tire module  1140   a  is oriented such that its first rib  820   a  is adjacent to the second rib  830   c  of the third annular tire module  1130   a . Thus, the second rib  830   a  of the fourth annular tire module  1140   a  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1100   a . In alternative embodiments, the tire modules  1110   a ,  1120   a ,  1130   a ,  1140   a  may be arranged in any order and any orientation. 
       FIG. 11B  illustrates an alternative embodiment of a non-pneumatic tire  1100   b  that is constructed of a first annular tire module  1110   b  having a blocked rib tire tread  800   c , a second annular tire module  1120   b  having a hybrid rib tire tread  800   b , a third annular tire module  1130   b  having a hybrid rib tire tread  800   b , and a fourth annular tire module  1140   b  having a blocked rib tire tread  800   c . The annular tire modules  1110   b ,  1120   b ,  1130   b ,  1140   b  are spaced apart from each other. 
     The first annular tire module  1110   b  is oriented such that its second rib  830   c  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1100   b . The second annular tire module  1120   b  is oriented such that its second rib  830   b  is adjacent to the first rib  820   c  of the first annular tire module  1110   b . The third annular tire module  1130   b  is oriented such that its first rib  820   b  is adjacent to the first rib  820   b  of the second annular tire module  1120   b . The fourth annular tire module  1140   b  is oriented such that its first rib  820   c  is adjacent to the second rib  830   b  of the third annular tire module  1130   b . Thus, the second rib  830   c  of the fourth annular tire module  1140   b  forms an outer rib of the non-pneumatic tire  1100   b . In alternative embodiments, the tire modules  1110   b ,  1120   b ,  1130   b ,  1140   b  may be arranged in any order and any orientation. 
     In still other alternative embodiments, four tire modules having any tread pattern may be arranged in any order and in any orientation. 
     To assemble a non-pneumatic tire and rim using the principles discussed herein, a user is provided a plurality of annular tire modules. Each annular tire module has an inner ring, an outer ring, support structure extending between the inner ring and the outer ring, and a circumferential tread extending about the outer ring. The user is also provided a rim. 
     As discussed above, the circumferential tread of the first annular tire module may be an asymmetrical tread. Likewise, the circumferential tread of the second annular tire module may be an asymmetrical tread. 
     The user then selects a first annular tire module from the plurality of annular tire modules. The user may select an orientation of the first annular tire module and slide the first annular tire module onto the rim while the first annular tire module is in the selected orientation. The user then selects a second annular tire module from the plurality of annular tire modules. The user may select an orientation of the second annular tire module and slide the second annular tire module onto the rim while the second annular tire module is in the selected orientation. The user is also provided a locking ring, and slides the locking ring onto the rim. 
     In one embodiment, the user is provided a spacer ring. In such an embodiment, the user slides the spacer ring onto the rim. The user may slide the spacer ring onto the rim after sliding the first annular tire module onto the rim, but before sliding the second annular tire module onto the rim. Alternatively, the user may slide the spacer ring onto the rim after sliding the second annular tire modules onto the rim. 
     As should be understood from the disclosure above, certain steps of this method may be repeated, to build a tire and rim assembly having three or more annular tire modules or two or more spacer rings. 
     After the tire and rim assembly has been assembled, a user may wish to disassemble the tire and rim assembly. For example, a user may desire to perform maintenance on one or more of the components, or replace one or more of the components. The user may also wish to replace all of the annular tire modules. To disassemble the tire and rim assembly, a user removes the locking ring from the rim, and remove the second annular tire module from the rim, and removes the first annular tire module from the rim. If spacer rings have been placed on the rim, they are also removed from the rim. If any additional annular tire modules have been placed on the rim, they are also removed from the rim. 
     After the tire and rim assembly has been disassembled, a user may wish to build a different tire and rim assembly. In such instances, the user selects a third annular tire module from the plurality of annular tire modules and slides the third annular tire module onto the rim. The user also selects a fourth annular tire module from the plurality of annular tire modules and slides the fourth annular tire module onto the rim. As with the initial assembly, the user may select the orientation of the third and fourth annular tire modules before sliding them onto the rim. The user may also slid spacer rings and any additional annular tire modules onto the rim. The user then slides the locking ring onto the rim. 
     To the extent that the term “includes” or “including” is used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as that term is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “or” is employed (e.g., A or B) it is intended to mean “A or B or both.” When the applicants intend to indicate “only A or B but not both” then the term “only A or B but not both” will be employed. Thus, use of the term “or” herein is the inclusive, and not the exclusive use. See, Bryan A. Garner, A Dictionary of Modern Legal Usage 624 (2d. Ed. 1995). Also, to the extent that the terms “in” or “into” are used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to additionally mean “on” or “onto.” Furthermore, to the extent the term “connect” is used in the specification or claims, it is intended to mean not only “directly connected to,” but also “indirectly connected to” such as connected through another component or components. 
     While the present application has been illustrated by the description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the application, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details, the representative apparatus and method, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant&#39;s general inventive concept.