Patent Description:
This invention also relates to a method for applying a clamp to a vehicle wheel.

To date, clamps of many different kinds which are removably applicable to vehicle tyres are known. These clamps are configured with a central pin to support measuring devices or targets for adjusting vehicle alignment and/or for calibrating the vehicle's sensors such as, for example, ADAS sensors. In this situation, while taking a measurement or performing calibration, the clamp is fixed securely to the vehicle wheel in such a way that the measuring device and/or the calibration target preferably occupy a central position relative to the wheel.

Prior art clamps comprise a body provided with a central portion from which a plurality of arms extend.

Normally, the plurality of arms comprises three arms that are angularly spaced at approximately <NUM>° from each other. Slidably mounted on each arm there is a slider that is configured to engage the tyre tread with a gripping portion so as to apply the clamp to the tyre.

Each slider is operatively connected, for example, by means of connecting levers, cables and the like, to a plurality of toothed elements which can be driven in rotation, for example, by means of a handle in such a way that a rotational movement of the toothed elements corresponds to a sliding movement of the sliders along the arms.

More in detail, the sliders can be moved between a closed position, where they are juxtaposed with the central portion so that the gripping portions are tightened on the tyre (or alternatively on the wheel rim) and the clamp is applied to the tyre as one therewith, and an open position, where the sliders are away from the central portion of the clamp so that the clamp can be fitted to/removed from the tyre.

In other words, by moving the handle, the toothed elements are set in rotation and the kinematic chain they form part of causes the sliders to move as well, so that the clamp can be fitted to/removed from the tyre.

Examples of these clamps are described in <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

As is known, each slider of the clamp is provided with a gripping portion configured to abut the tyre tread (or, alternatively, the wheel rim) so as to allow the clamp to be securely applied to the wheel.

As is known, the gripping portion of the sliders is usually a flat, rigid surface which may, if necessary, be knurled.

In use, when the sliders are moved from the open position to the closed position, the gripping portions are moved simultaneously into contact with the wheel so that the clamp is automatically self-centred relative to the wheel it is applied to.

Normally, to apply the clamp to the wheel, an operator juxtaposes the clamp with the wheel until a first slider, specifically the gripping portion thereof, abuts the top of the wheel and is substantially aligned vertically with the centre of the wheel.

In other words, the operator positions the first slider in such a way that the first slider is substantially aligned vertically with the centre of the wheel.

Since positioning is a manual operation, it is possible that the first slider, when it is rested on the wheel, may not be precisely aligned vertically with the centre of the wheel. In this situation, if the sliders are moved to the closed position, the clamp would not be correctly centred and oriented on the wheel.

Therefore, to prevent the clamp not being centred relative to the wheel, the operator, before moving the sliders to the closed position, must first move the clamp away from the wheel and then reposition it.

That is because the structure of the first slider, in particular, of its gripping portion, is such that the position of the clamp cannot be adjusted when the first slider is resting on the wheel.

More specifically, sliding the first slider on the wheel to compensate for the misalignment of the clamp is difficult and almost impossible because there is the risk of the gripping portion getting jammed or stuck in the gaps of the tyre tread.

In this situation, therefore, to correct its position, the clamp must first be moved away from the wheel and then positioned again.

That means the procedure of applying and positioning prior art clamps on the wheel is quite time-consuming.

Moreover, it subjects the clamp to greater wear and involves a higher risk of breaking the clamp if adjusting its position is attempted while the first slider is resting on the wheel.

<CIT> discloses a clamp applicable to a tyre comprising a body including a plurality of arms, a plurality of sliders coupled to said arms and being radially movable between a retracted and an extracted position and an operating mechanism to allow simultaneous movement of the sliders.

The technical purpose of this invention, therefore, is to overcome the above mentioned disadvantages of the prior art by providing a clamp which is applicable to a wheel tyre and a method for applying the clamp.

The aim of this invention, therefore, is to provide a clamp which can be positioned on the wheel precisely without the sliders getting jammed or stuck on the wheel, specifically on the tyre.

A further aim of this invention, therefore, is to provide a clamp that is convenient, handy and easy to apply to the wheel.

A further aim of this invention is to provide a clamp that is quick to fit, adjust and remove from the vehicle wheel.

A further aim of this invention is to provide a simple and reliable method for applying the clamp.

The technical purpose indicated and the aims specified are substantially achieved by a clamp which is applicable to a wheel tyre and a method for applying the clamp comprising the technical features described in one or more of the accompanying claims. The dependent claims correspond to possible embodiments of the invention.

More specifically, the technical purpose indicated and the aims specified are achieved by a clamp which is applicable to a vehicle wheel tyre and which comprises a body including a plurality of arms extending radially from a central axis and angularly distributed around the central axis.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the body comprises a central portion of substantially circular shape from which the arms extend. In this situation, the central portion and the arms define a substantially star-like shape. In a preferred embodiment, the arms have the same length.

In a preferred embodiment, there are three arms: an upper arm and two lateral arms.

The upper arm is elongated along an upper axis oriented radially relative to the central axis.

The upper arm is operatively configured to position a slider, which is slidably associated with it, in contact with the top of a wheel tyre, as described below.

The lateral arms, on the other hand, are elongated along respective lateral axes which are oriented radially relative to the central axis.

The lateral arms are operatively configured to position respective sliders, which are slidably associated with them, in contact with zones of the tyre which are positioned at a level below the axis of the wheel.

More specifically, the lateral arms are operatively configured to position the respective sliders in contact with zones of the tyre which are positioned at a lower level, that is to say, at a height from the ground below the level at which the axis of the wheel is located.

In a preferred embodiment, the angles made by the lateral arms with the upper arm are the same size.

In a preferred embodiment, each lateral axis is angularly spaced from the upper axis by an angle greater than <NUM>°.

More specifically, the angle subtended between the upper axis and each of the lateral axes is preferably included in the range from <NUM>° to <NUM>°. Still more preferably, this angle is <NUM>°.

In a preferred embodiment, the lateral axes are angularly spaced from each other by an angle greater than <NUM>°.

In a preferred embodiment, the angle made between the lateral axes is <NUM>°.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the clamp also comprises a supporting element - for example, a pin - extending away from the body along the central axis. This supporting element is configured to reversibly engage a measuring device, a calibration target or similar accessories useful for vehicle wheel alignment and/or for calibrating vehicle sensors.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the clamp also comprises a slider system comprising a plurality of sliders.

Each slider is slidably coupled to a respective arm to move radially between a retracted position and an extracted position.

More in detail, at the retracted position, each slider is at a first distance from the central axis and at the extracted position, it is at a second distance from the central axis, greater than the first distance.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, the sliders are coupled to the respective arms and are movable in such a way as to converge in synchronized manner towards the central axis so as to define a self-centring slider system. In other terms, the self-centring slider system ensures that all the sliders are the same distance from the central axis at both the retracted and the extracted positions.

The sliders are configured to engage the wheel tyre to allow the clamp to be firmly and securely applied to the tyre.

Each slider includes a side abutment portion extending parallel with the central axis and configured to abut against the tyre tread so as to hold the clamp on the tyre.

The side abutment portion defines a first part of the slider and extends perpendicularly to the plane defined by the clamp body on the side opposite the supporting element.

According to a further aspect of this disclosure, each slider also comprises a front abutment portion extending parallel with a respective arm and configured to abut against a sidewall of the tyre.

The front abutment portion defines a second part of the slider and extends parallel with the arm on which the slider is mounted, so that when the clamp is applied to the tyre, the front abutment surface is interposed between the sidewall of the tyre and the respective arm and creates a space that helps to prevent contact between the arm and the wheel rim.

Thus, the sliders are each defined by a first and a second part making, between them, a right angle, which makes the slider substantially L-shaped.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, each slider also comprises an engagement portion configured to engage the arm so that the slider can slide along the respective arm.

In an embodiment, the first and the second portion are made in one piece with the engagement portion. In other words, the first and the second portion constitute a single body.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the plurality of sliders includes an upper slider that is slidable along the upper arm. The front abutment portion of the upper slider is elongated along the upper axis oriented radially relative to the central axis.

More specifically, the front abutment portion of the upper slider extends parallel with the upper arm.

The plurality of sliders also includes a pair of lateral sliders that are slidable along the respective lateral arms.

More specifically, the front abutment portion of each lateral slider extends along the respective lateral axis oriented radially relative to the central axis.

More specifically, the front abutment portion of each lateral slider extends parallel with the respective lateral arm.

In a preferred embodiment, the lateral sliders are equidistant from the central axis so as to facilitate positioning the central axis so it is aligned with the axis of the wheel, as described in detail below.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the clamp also comprises an operating mechanism configured to allow simultaneously moving the sliders from the retracted position to the extracted position and vice versa. More in detail, the operating mechanism comprises an operating means that is rotatably connected to the body to rotate about the central axis.

In a possible embodiment (the one illustrated), the operating means is rotatably connected to the body to rotate about the central axis so that a rotation of the operating means in a first direction corresponds to a movement of the sliders towards the retracted position and a rotation of the operating means in a second direction, opposite of the first direction, corresponds to a movement of the sliders towards the extracted position.

Alternatively, the operating means might be movable in translation (or according to another predetermined trajectory, for example, roto-translation) so that a translation (or more generally speaking, any movement) of the operating means in a first direction corresponds to a movement of the sliders towards the retracted position and a translation (or more generally speaking, any movement) of the operating means in a second direction, opposite of the first direction, corresponds to a movement of the sliders towards the extracted position.

In a possible embodiment (illustrated), the operating means is embodied as a disc with a circular cross section centred on the central axis; in this case, moving the operating means comprises rotating the disc.

Alternatively, the operating means may have any shape.

The operating mechanism also comprises a plurality of connecting levers. Each connecting lever has a first end that is articulated to the operating means, and a second end that is articulated to a corresponding slider of the plurality of sliders to allow the sliders to be moved simultaneously from the retracted position to the extracted position and vice versa.

In the preferred embodiment, the connecting levers are made in the form of rigid rods, for example, conrods, preferably metallic.

The operating mechanism also comprises a gripping portion grippable by a user and associated with the operating means to slidably move the sliders. The gripping portion is connected to the operating means alternatively directly or indirectly, for example, by a kinematic coupling including gears or cables.

If the gripping portion is connected to the operating means by a direct connection, a movement of the gripping portion corresponds directly to movement of the operating means and sliding of the sliders. The gripping portion of the clamp of this disclosure might be connected to the operating means by a direct connection as described in <CIT>.

If the gripping portion is connected to the operating means by an indirect connection, a movement of the gripping portion corresponds to a movement of a system of toothed wheels or ring nuts responsible for driving the operating means in such a way as to displace the sliders. For example, the gripping portion of the clamp of this disclosure might be connected to the operating means by an indirect connection as described in <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

In the embodiment illustrated, the gripping portion is connected to the operating means by a direct connection.

More specifically, the gripping portion is disposed eccentrically relative to the central axis.

In other words, the gripping portion is spaced from the central axis (hence, relative to the central axis, it is at a non-zero radial distance which constitutes a lever arm for a force that generates an angular momentum on the clamp body).

In a possible example embodiment, the gripping portion has the shape of a bar. Alternatively, the gripping portion might have the shape of a knob or other shape which is convenient for the user to grip with a hand.

In the embodiment illustrated, the gripping portion comprises a rod having a first end that is connected to the operating means to be integral therewith and a second end that extends radially relative to the central axis. The second end may comprise a portion that is covered with a non-slip material (rubber, for example) to make it easier for the operator to grip it.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the gripping portion is made in one piece with the operating means. More specifically, the gripping portion is an extension of the operating means and is suitably contoured to allow an operator to grip it.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the clamp also comprises a handgrip connected to the clamp body and positioned in a plane containing one of the arms and the central axis.

In a possible embodiment (the one illustrated), the handgrip is connected to the upper arm. More specifically, the handgrip is cantilevered to the clamp arm so it can be easily gripped by the user.

In use, to position the clamp on the wheel, the user holds the handgrip with one hand and moves the clamp close to the tyre so that the central axis lies close to the axis of rotation of the wheel. In this situation, the clamp is juxtaposed with the tyre until the front abutment portion of each slider is in contact with the sidewall of the tyre and until the side abutment portion of the slider abuts the tyre tread.

Next, while still holding the handgrip with one hand, the user grips the gripping portion with the other hand so as to be able to move the operating means. In this situation, the user moves the operating means, for example, rotates it, so as to bring the sliders close to the tyre. In other terms, the user moves the gripping portion closer to the handgrip so that the sliders of the clamp are brought simultaneously to the retracted position.

Once the sliders have been brought into contact with the tyre, the side abutment portion of each applies a gripping pressure on the tyre tread so as to hold the clamp on the wheel.

To prevent this pressure from slackening on account of the elastic return of the tyre tread or in any case to ensure a correct hold, the clamp comprises a locking device that is movable between a locked position, where it acts on the operating mechanism to prevent it from moving the sliders, and an unlocked position, where it allows the sliders to be moved. In a possible embodiment, the locking device comprises a braking element which, at the locked position, is configured to apply a locking pressure on the operating means by means of a vice connected to the clamp body.

To switch the locking device from the locked to the unlocked position and vice versa, the clamp comprises an actuating mechanism connected to the locking device and operable by the user.

This mechanism may comprise levers, keys, pushbuttons and any other actuating element.

In the preferred embodiment, the actuating mechanism comprises a lever made on the handgrip so that, when the sliders have moved into contact with the tyre, a user with a hand operatively holding the handgrip can operate the locking device to prevent the sliders from slipping towards the extracted position.

Alternatively, the actuating mechanism may be made on the gripping portion (or in proximity thereto).

In use, therefore, to move the sliders simultaneously from the extracted position to the retracted position in contact with the tyre tread, the locking device is released by means of the actuating mechanism so as to allow the operating mechanism, specifically the operating means, to move and cause the sliders to slide. Once the sliders have reached the retracted position, the actuating mechanism is activated so that the locking device acts on the operating means in order to stop it from moving, thus preventing the sliders from moving towards the retracted position.

In order to ensure the alignment of the vehicle is correct and precisely adjusted and/or to ensure its sensors are correctly calibrated, the clamp should be correctly centred relative to the wheel it is applied to and be suitably oriented.

Therefore, to make positioning the clamp on the wheel easier, quicker and more precise, the clamp comprises a rolling support system which is configured to come into direct contact with the tyre and which is rotatable idly about an axis of rotation.

More specifically, the plurality of sliders comprises a rolling support system which comes into contact with the wheel the moment the clamp is applied to the wheel and which, thanks to its rolling motion along the tyre, allows adjusting the position of the clamp.

The term "rolling support system" may be used to denote a plurality of rolling elements located at different points of the clamp. More specifically, each slider is provided with at least one rolling element, as described in detail below, strategically positioned so that, when the clamp is juxtaposed with the wheel, it comes into abutment against the tyre and rolls along the tyre to vary the position of the clamp on the wheel without having to move it away from the wheel.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, the rolling support system includes at least a first rolling element forming part of the upper slider and rotating idly about an axis parallel with the central axis or with the upper axis.

In a possible embodiment (the one illustrated), the rolling support system includes, besides the first rolling element, a further rolling element forming part of the upper slider.

The first rolling element and the further rolling element rotate idly about axes that are perpendicular to each other. In the preferred embodiment, the first rolling element rotates about the upper axis of rotation, while the further rolling element rotates about the upper axis.

Besides the at least one first rolling element, the support system may also include at least a second rolling element forming part of at least one of the lateral sliders and rotating idly about an axis that is transverse, preferably orthogonal, to the lateral axis of the lateral arm of the at least one lateral slider.

In a possible embodiment, each lateral slider includes at least one rolling element that rotates idly about the axis that is transverse, preferably orthogonal, to the lateral axis of the respective lateral arm.

In the preferred embodiment, each lateral slider comprises a plurality of rolling elements whose axes of rotation are parallel with each other and orthogonal to the lateral axis of the respective lateral arm.

In use, therefore, when the clamp is applied to the wheel, the sliders are brought to the extracted position and the clamp is juxtaposed with the wheel.

More specifically, the clamp comes into abutment against the tyre at the points where the rolling elements are located so that if the position of the clamp needs to be adjusted, all that has to be done is to move the clamp (for example, by rotation or translation) while keeping it in contact with the tyre, so as to cause the rolling elements to rotate and thereby correcting clamp misalignment.

Advantageously, the rolling elements make positioning the clamp on the wheel quick and easy, without having to remove the clamp from the wheel completely if it has to be repositioned.

With reference to the embodiment illustrated, the rolling support system comprises an adjustment tube adapted to come into contact with the tyre tread.

The adjustment tube is rotatably associated with the side abutment portion of the upper slider to rotate about the upper axis of rotation parallel with the central axis.

More specifically, the side abutment portion of the upper slider is elongated along the upper axis of rotation and the adjustment tube is fitted round an end stretch (opposite the stretch that joins the side abutment portion to the front abutment portion of the upper slider) of the side abutment portion.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the adjustment tube has rotational symmetry.

More specifically, the adjustment tube is made in the form of a hollow cylinder that can be fitted round the side abutment portion of the upper slider of the clamp so as to rotate relative thereto.

The adjustment tube also comprises an outside surface provided with a plurality of mutually spaced annular protrusions coaxial with the upper axis of rotation.

In a possible embodiment, the annular protrusions have a saw-toothed profile whose tooth set is oriented towards the central axis of the clamp.

Alternatively, the annular protrusions have a substantially stepped profile.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the rolling support system might also comprise an adjustment roller adapted to come into abutment against the sidewall of the tyre.

The adjustment roller is rotatably coupled to the front adjustment portion of the upper slider to rotate about an axis of rotation parallel with the upper axis.

More specifically, the adjustment roller sits in a housing formed in the front abutment portion of the upper slider in such a way as to rotate idly.

In the preferred embodiment, the adjustment roller has an elongated shape and a smooth outside surface so the adjustment roller can easily roll on the sidewall of the tyre, that is to say, making it easy to adjust the position of the clamp on the wheel.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the rolling support system also comprises, for each lateral slider of the pair of lateral sliders, one or more rolling elements configured to come into contact with the sidewall of the tyre.

The rolling elements are mounted on the front abutment portion of the respective lateral slider and rotate, specifically idly, about axes which are oriented transversely, preferably orthogonally, to the lateral axis of the respective lateral arm.

In a possible embodiment (illustrated), each lateral slider comprises a plurality of rolling elements.

The rolling elements of the plurality rotate about axes which are oriented orthogonally to the lateral axis of the respective lateral arm and which are parallel with the upper axis of the upper arm.

In a preferred embodiment, the maximum distance between the surfaces of the rolling elements of the plurality and the clamp body is equal to the maximum distance between the surface of the adjustment roller and the clamp body.

In use, to position the clamp on the wheel, the sliders are brought to the extracted position and the user, with one hand on the handgrip and the other on the gripping portion, orients the clamp in such a way that the upper arm is substantially perpendicular to the ground.

Next, with the clamp positioned in this way, the user places the clamp in contact with the tyre in such a way that the central axis is approximately aligned with the axis of rotation of the wheel and the upper slider abuts a zone at the top of the tyre tread.

In this situation, the upper slider has its side abutment portion abutting the tyre tread and its front abutment portion resting against the sidewall of the tyre, while the lateral sliders have their respective side abutment portions spaced from the tyre tread and their front abutment portions abutting the sidewall of the tyre.

In this situation, the clamp is in contact with the wheel tyre at the points where the rolling elements of the rolling support system on the clamp have been placed.

In effect, looking in more detail, the clamp abuts the tyre with the side and front abutment portions of the upper slider, where the adjustment tube and the adjustment roller are located, respectively, and with the front and side abutment portions of the lateral sliders, where the rolling elements are located.

In this situation, if the position of the clamp on the wheel needs to be adjusted, the user can keep the upper slider in contact with the tyre and the front abutment portions of the lateral sliders in contact with the sidewall of the tyre and, by letting the rolling elements roll, can suitably orient the clamp to adjust its position relative to the wheel.

More in detail, a first type of adjustment might be necessary when the clamp is juxtaposed with the wheel in such a way that the central axis is substantially coincident (aligned) with the axis of rotation of the wheel but the upper slider is not vertically aligned with the centre of the wheel (that is to say, the upper arm is not at least substantially perpendicular to the ground).

In this situation, while keeping the clamp (that is to say, the front abutment portions of the lateral sliders and the upper slider) in contact with the tyre, the user lets the adjustment tube roll along the tyre tread, specifically along the top portion of it, causing the clamp to rotate about the central axis. While the adjustment tube rotates about the upper axis of rotation in contact with the tyre tread, the adjustment roller and the rolling elements roll on the sidewall of the tyre to prevent the front abutment portions of the sliders from rubbing against the sidewall of the tyre and causing unwanted jamming and scraping.

By making the adjustment tube roll along the tyre tread, the clamp keeps the central axis substantially aligned with the axis of rotation of the wheel and the upper slider is brought into vertical alignment with the centre of the wheel (that is, the upper arm is adjusted so it is perpendicular to the ground), thus ensuring that the clamp is applied correctly.

A second type of adjustment might be necessary when the clamp is juxtaposed with the wheel in such a way that the upper slider is substantially aligned vertically with the centre of the wheel but the central axis of the clamp is not aligned with the axis of rotation of the wheel, that is to say, the central axis and the axis of rotation of the wheel are offset from each other.

In this situation, a useful feature is the fact that the adjustment tube is rotatably connected to the side abutment portion of the upper slider. More in detail, the user keeps the clamp in contact with the tyre and lets the clamp swivel about the adjustment tube so as to bring the central axis into alignment with the axis of rotation of the wheel.

During the swivelling motion of the clamp, the adjustment roller and the rolling elements roll on the sidewall of the tyre so that the clamp can be positioned on the wheel in such a way that its central axis is aligned with the axis of rotation of the wheel.

A third type of adjustment might be necessary when the wheel the clamp is applied to is particularly large in diameter. More specifically, in such a situation, the clamp might be juxtaposed with the wheel so that the central axis is parallel with (and at the same height from the ground as) the axis of the wheel and the upper arm is perpendicular to the ground but without the upper slider being positioned on the top of the tyre tread (that is to say, without the slider being vertically aligned with the centre of the wheel). In such a situation, the clamp should be "translated" relative to the centre of the wheel.

To avoid this risk, by lifting the adjustment tube slightly off the tyre tread and keeping the adjustment roller and the rolling elements in contact with the sidewall of the tyre, the clamp can be translated in such a way that the central axis coincides with the axis of the wheel and the upper slider is on the top of the tyre tread and vertically aligned with the centre of the wheel. Following adjustment of the clamp's position on the wheel, the operating mechanism is actuated to move the sliders simultaneously to the retracted position. In this situation, the gripping portion is moved so the operating means is moved and the lateral sliders are also brought simultaneously into contact with the tyre. By so doing, the clamp is automatically centred on the wheel and the sliders apply on the tyre the gripping pressure needed to keep the clamp mounted on the wheel.

In this situation, the locking device is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position so as to stop the sliders from unwantedly slipping towards the extracted position.

When the clamp is no longer needed on the wheel, the locking device is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position so as to allow moving the sliders towards the extracted position, hence slackening the clamp from the tyre.

Also an object of this disclosure is a method for applying a clamp to a vehicle wheel. The method comprises a step of preparing a clamp comprising a body including a plurality of arms disposed radially around a central axis.

In the preferred embodiment, the plurality of arms comprises an upper arm elongated along an upper axis and oriented radially relative to the central axis. The plurality of arms also comprises two lateral arms elongated along respective lateral axes oriented radially relative to the central axis and angularly spaced from the upper axis by more than <NUM>°.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the angles made by the upper arm with each of the lateral arms are the same size.

The clamp also comprises a plurality of sliders slidably coupled to the arms to move radially between a retracted position, where they are proximal to the central axis, and an extracted position, where they are distal to the central axis. In a preferred embodiment, the retracted position and the extracted position are the same for each slider of the plurality of sliders.

In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of sliders comprises an upper slider which is slidable along the upper arm, and at least one pair of lateral sliders which are angularly spaced around the central axis relative to the upper slider and which are slidable along the lateral arms.

Each slider comprises a side abutment portion, extending parallel with the central axis and configured to abut the tyre tread, and a front abutment portion extending parallel with a respective arm and configured to abut the sidewall of the tyre.

The clamp also comprises an operating mechanism configured to allow simultaneously moving the sliders from the retracted position to the extracted position and vice versa.

More specifically, the operating mechanism is configured to move the sliders in such a way that they converge towards the central axis in synchronized manner, thus defining a self-centring slider system.

The clamp also comprises a rolling support system included in the plurality of sliders and configured to come into direct contact with the tyre, as described below.

After the step of preparing, the method comprises a step of actuating the operating mechanism to move the sliders simultaneously towards the extracted position.

The method then comprises a step of juxtaposing the clamp with the vehicle wheel until the sliders surround the tyre tread.

In the preferred embodiment, during the step of juxtaposing, the clamp is moved close to the wheel so that the upper slider is positioned in such a way that its side abutment portion abuts a zone at the top of the tyre tread. In other words, the upper slider is in contact with the tyre tread while the other sliders, that is, the lateral sliders, are spaced from the tyre tread.

Looking in more detail, when the clamp is juxtaposed with the wheel, the front abutment portions of all the sliders are in contact with the sidewall of the tyre, whilst only the side abutment portion of the upper slider is in contact with the tyre tread. In effect, the side abutment portions of the lateral sliders are distal to the tyre tread.

After the step of juxtaposing, the method further comprises a step of adjusting the position of the clamp on the wheel by rotating the clamp so as to cause at least part of the rolling support to rotate.

More in detail, the step of adjusting comprises moving the clamp into contact with the wheel in such a way that the rolling support rolls on the tyre to bring the clamp to the right position relative to the wheel.

More specifically, before the sliders are brought to the retracted position, it is best for the clamp to be disposed with the upper arm perpendicular to the ground and the upper slider aligned vertically with the centre of the wheel.

In the preferred embodiment, each slider is provided with at least one rolling element of the rolling support system.

In the preferred embodiment, the at least one rolling element of each slider is positioned on the slider itself in the abutment portions which, during the step of juxtaposing (that is, when the sliders are still at the extracted position), come into contact with the tyre so as to be able to roll on the tyre to allow adjusting the position of the clamp.

More in detail, since the clamp is juxtaposed with the wheel by placing the upper slider in abutment against the tyre, the upper slider has at least one rolling element disposed on its side abutment portion and at least one rolling element disposed on its front abutment portion.

The lateral sliders, on the other hand, when the clamp is juxtaposed with the wheel, each come into contact with the sidewall of the tyre with its front abutment portion, which is thus provided with at least one rolling element, as described below.

Once the clamp has been juxtaposed with the wheel, it is in contact with the wheel by means of the rolling elements which, if necessary, can be made to roll on the tyre to adjust the position of the clamp without moving it away from the wheel.

In a possible embodiment, the rolling support comprises at least one between an adjustment tube and an adjustment roller.

In the preferred embodiment, the upper slider has both the adjustment roller and the adjustment tube.

The adjustment tube is rotatably coupled to the side abutment portion of the upper slider while the adjustment roller is rotatably coupled to the front abutment portion of the upper slider.

More in detail, in the case where the upper slider is provided with the adjustment tube, the latter is in contact with the zone at the top of the tyre and rolls on the tyre tread to facilitate rotation of the clamp about the central axis.

In the case where the upper slider is provided also, or alternatively, with the adjustment roller, the latter is in contact with the zone at the top of the tyre on the sidewall of the tyre and rolls about an axis of rotation parallel with the upper arm along the sidewall of the tyre to facilitate rotation of the clamp about the central axis.

In the step of rolling, the adjustment tube and/or the adjustment roller roll on the tyre tread or on the sidewall of the tyre, respectively, so as to adjust the position of the clamp relative to the wheel, that is to say, so as to make the upper arm perpendicular to the ground, align the upper slider vertically with the centre of the wheel and make the central axis coincide with the axis of the wheel.

In other words, adjusting the position of the clamp on the wheel is accomplished by rolling the adjustment tube and/or the adjustment roller on the tyre in such a way as to cause the clamp to rotate or swivel around the upper slider.

In a preferred embodiment, the rolling support system comprises a plurality of rolling elements rotatably coupled to the lateral sliders. More specifically, the rolling elements are coupled to the front abutment portions of the lateral sliders.

By rolling along the sidewall of the tyre, the rolling elements contribute to adjusting the clamp on the wheel and prevent the lateral sliders from scraping when they are brought to the retracted position.

After the step of adjusting, the method further comprises a step of actuating the operating mechanism to move the sliders simultaneously towards the retracted position and a simultaneous step of rolling the rolling support system on an outside surface of the tyre. In this situation, the lateral sliders move towards the wheel (causing the rolling elements to roll) until they come into abutment against the tyre tread under the action of the operating mechanism.

In this situation, the locking mechanism is activated and the clamp is securely applied to the wheel.

Advantageously, the fact that the clamp is abutted against the wheel by means of the rolling support system allows adjusting the clamp on the wheel without having to move it away from the wheel and towards it again repeatedly and without the sliders scraping the tyre.

Further features and advantages of this invention are more apparent in the exemplary, hence non-limiting, description of an embodiment of a clamp which is applicable to a vehicle wheel tyre and a method for applying a clamp to a vehicle wheel.

The description is set out below with reference to the accompanying drawings which are provided solely for purposes of illustration without limiting the scope of the invention and in which:.

With reference to the accompanying drawings, the numeral <NUM> denotes a clamp which is applicable to a tyre P of a vehicle wheel R.

The clamp <NUM> comprises a body <NUM> including a plurality of arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> extending radially from a central axis X and angularly distributed around the central axis X.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the clamp body <NUM> is shaped like a plate and has a front face 10a and a rear face 10b which, when the clamp <NUM> is mounted on the wheel R, faces towards the wheel R itself.

In a possible embodiment, the clamp body <NUM> also comprises a central portion which has a substantially circular cross section and from which the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> extend to give the clamp body <NUM> a substantially star shaped structure.

In a possible embodiment, the clamp <NUM> comprises three arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> which are angularly spaced from each other.

In a preferred embodiment, the three arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are the same length. More specifically, the clamp <NUM> has an upper arm <NUM> and two lateral arms <NUM>, <NUM>.

As shown in the accompanying drawings, the upper arm <NUM> is operatively configured to position a slider <NUM>, slidably associated therewith, in contact with a top of the tyre P.

More specifically, the upper arm <NUM> is elongated along an upper axis S oriented radially relative to the central axis X.

The lateral arms <NUM>, <NUM>, on the other hand, are operatively configured to position respective sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, which are slidably associated with them, in contact with zones of the tyre which are positioned at a level below the axis of the wheel R.

More specifically, the lateral arms <NUM>, <NUM> are operatively configured to position the respective sliders <NUM>, <NUM> in contact with zones of the tyre P which are positioned at a lower level, that is to say, at a height from the ground below the level at which the axis (or the centre) of the wheel R is located from the ground.

Each lateral arm <NUM>, <NUM> is elongated along a respective lateral axis L1, L2 oriented radially relative to the central axis X.

In a preferred embodiment, each lateral axis L1, L2 is angularly spaced from the upper axis S by an angle greater than <NUM>°. In a preferred embodiment, the angles between the upper axis S and the two lateral axes L1, L2, respectively, are the same.

In the embodiment, illustrated, the angle between the upper axis S and each of the lateral axes L1, L2 is <NUM>°.

In a preferred embodiment, the lateral axes L1, L2 are angularly spaced from each other by an angle greater than <NUM>°.

In the embodiment, illustrated, the angle between the lateral axes L1, L2 is <NUM>°.

In an embodiment, the body <NUM> also comprises a protective shell <NUM> configured to protect the clamp <NUM> against impurities, dust, extraneous bodies and the like in order to keep it working correctly.

The clamp <NUM> also comprises a plurality of sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, each slidably coupled to a respective arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to move radially between a retracted position, where each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is at a first distance from the central axis X (<FIG>), and an extracted position, where it is at a second distance from the central axis X (<FIG>), greater than the first distance.

The sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are steplessly slidable along the respective arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and may adopt any position intermediate between the extracted position and the retracted position. The sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are slidable along the respective arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> simultaneously so that they are all at the same radial distance from the central axis X thanks to the action of an operating mechanism, as described below.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, each arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a groove running along the direction of extension of the arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and configured to guide the sliding movement of the respective slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from the extracted position to the retracted position or vice versa.

To facilitate sliding each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> along the respective groove, the part of the slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that is slidably engaged in the groove is made from a low-friction material.

As shown in the accompanying drawings, each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises an engagement portion <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴ which slidably engages the respective arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> so as to allow the aforesaid sliding movement from the extracted position to the retracted position and vice versa.

As shown in the accompanying drawings, each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> also includes a side abutment portion <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' configured to abut against, and apply a gripping pressure on, the tread B of the tyre P so as to hold the clamp <NUM> on the tyre P.

The side abutment portion <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' defines a first part of the slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> extending perpendicularly to the rear face 10b on the side of the rear face 10b of the body <NUM>.

According to a further aspect of this disclosure, each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> also comprises a front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" configured to abut against a sidewall of the tyre P when the clamp <NUM> is applied to the tyre P (<FIG>).

The front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" defines a second part of the slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and extends parallel with the arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> on which the slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is slidably mounted. In this situation, each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is substantially in the shape of an L, where the side abutment portion <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' and the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>"are substantially at right angles to each other. In an embodiment, the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" has a first portion, located in proximity to the side abutment portion <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' parallel with the rear face of the body <NUM>, and a second portion that is slightly inclined towards the body <NUM>. This makes it easier for the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to be correctly positioned relative to the sidewall F of the tyre P.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> also comprises an auxiliary portion <NUM> extending parallel with the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" and slidably insertable into a cavity made in the engagement portion <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴ at a plurality of positions so the front abutment portion <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' can extend radially by a quantity greater than the extension which the groove of the arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> allows the slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In effect, in use, thanks to the different relative positions between the auxiliary portion <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴ and the engagement portion <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>"', the distance between the central axis X and the side abutment portions <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' when these are at the respective extracted positions is greater than the radius of the wheel R. In other terms, the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are adapted to be wrapped around the wheel R on the tread B of the tyre P.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the auxiliary portion <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴can be retracted into and extracted from the cavity of the engagement portion <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴ to occupy a plurality of positions intermediate between a least extracted position and a most extracted position so as to adapt the clamp <NUM> to the diameter of the tyre P it is being applied to.

The expression "intermediate positions" is used to mean discrete positions, identical for each auxiliary portion <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>"', relative to the corresponding engagement portion <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴ so that with the engagement portions <NUM>, <NUM>", <NUM>‴ all at the same distance from the central axis X, the side abutment portions <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' can be at different distances from the axis X.

For each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the clamp <NUM> also comprises a stop mechanism <NUM> (shown, for example, in <FIG>) configured to stop the auxiliary portion <NUM> from sliding in the cavity once the auxiliary portion <NUM> has been extracted or retracted to adopt a desired intermediate position.

In a possible embodiment, the stop mechanism <NUM> consists of a succession of holes, made on the auxiliary portion <NUM>, into which a pin or a rod <NUM> can be inserted through a hole in the engagement portion <NUM> in such a way as to stop the auxiliary portion <NUM> at the desired intermediate position.

In the preferred embodiment, the plurality of sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises an upper slider <NUM> that is slidable along the upper arm <NUM>. The front abutment portion <NUM>" of the upper slider <NUM> is elongated along the upper axis S oriented radially relative to the central axis X.

More specifically, the front abutment portion <NUM>" of the upper slider <NUM> extends parallel with the upper arm <NUM>.

The plurality of sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> also includes a pair of lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> that are slidable along the respective lateral arms <NUM>, <NUM>.

More specifically, the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>" of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> extends along the respective lateral axes L1, L2 oriented radially relative to the central axis X.

More specifically, the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>" of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> extends parallel with the respective lateral arms <NUM>, <NUM>.

In a preferred embodiment, the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> are equidistant from the central axis X so as to facilitate positioning the central axis X of the clamp <NUM> so it is aligned with the axis of the wheel R, as described in detail below.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the side abutment portion <NUM>', <NUM>' of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> is knurled (or corrugated) so it can firmly grip the tyre P.

More specifically, on their respective lateral abutment portions <NUM>', <NUM>', the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> are provided with knurling <NUM> that is configured to abut against the tread B of the tyre P.

As shown in the accompanying drawings, the knurling <NUM> has a substantially saw-toothed profile whose tooth set is oriented towards the body <NUM>.

In use, when applying the clamp <NUM> to the tyre P, the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are first made to slide towards the extracted position to allow the body <NUM> to be juxtaposed with the tyre P (<FIG>).

Next, the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are made to slide in such a way that the side abutment portion <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' is in contact with the tread B of the tyre P, while the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" abuts the sidewall F of the tyre P and is interposed between the sidewall F and the respective arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>). In this situation, the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" acts as a spacer which disposes the clamp <NUM> in a plane parallel with the wheel R so the arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> does not come into contact with the rim of the wheel R and thus prevents scraping and scratching the rim (<FIG>). The clamp <NUM> of this disclosure also comprises an operating mechanism configured to allow simultaneously moving the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from the retracted position to the extracted position and vice versa.

More in detail, the operating mechanism comprises an operating means that is rotatably connected to the body <NUM> to rotate about the central axis X. The operating mechanism may be made according any of various technologies, based, for example, on gear trains, cables or other systems of essentially known type in the trade; in a (preferred) example, the operating mechanism comprises an operating means connected to the arms by a system of levers and movably connected to the body, and a handgrip attached to the operating means and grippable by a user to move the operating means directly. For a detailed description of the operating mechanism, reference is made to patent application <CIT> by the present Applicant.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the operating means is mounted on the front face 10a of the clamp body <NUM> so that when the clamp <NUM> is applied to the tyre P, the operating means faces towards a user of the clamp <NUM>.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the operating means comprises a disc, preferably a metal disc, centred on the central axis X.

Alternatively, the operating means may be embodied in any form.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the clamp <NUM> also comprises a supporting element <NUM>, such as, for example, a pin or a hook, built into the clamp body <NUM> and configured to support a measuring target and/or a measuring device used for measuring the alignment of a vehicle once the clamp <NUM> has been applied to the vehicle tyre P.

The supporting element <NUM> extends away from the clamp body <NUM> along a direction transverse thereto, and, more specifically, it extends along the central axis X. More in detail, the supporting element <NUM> extends in such a way as to be directed towards the user when the clamp <NUM> is applied to the wheel R.

In an embodiment, the operating mechanism also comprises a plurality of connecting levers.

Each connecting lever has a first end that is articulated to the operating means, and a second end that is articulated to a corresponding slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the plurality of sliders to allow the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to be moved simultaneously from the retracted position to the extracted position and vice versa.

In this situation, a displacement of the operating means, preferably a rotation of the operating means, corresponds to a displacement of the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> towards the retracted position and a further displacement of the operating means, opposite of the first, corresponds to a displacement of the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> towards the extracted position.

In other words, the connecting levers allow the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> associated with them to slide simultaneously along the respective arm <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> so they all simultaneously occupy the same radial position relative to the central axis X along the upper axis S and the lateral axes L1, L2 occupy the same radial position relative to the central axis X.

This aspect is advantageous because it allows self-centring the clamp <NUM> while it is being applied to the tyre P.

In a possible embodiment, the connecting levers are made in the form of rods or links, preferably made of metal.

To move the operating means, the operating mechanism also comprises a gripping portion <NUM> grippable by a user and associated with the operating means to slidably move the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

The gripping portion <NUM> is connected to the operating means alternatively directly or indirectly, for example, by a kinematic coupling including gears or cables.

In the preferred embodiment, the gripping portion <NUM> is connected to the operating means directly so that a movement of the gripping portion corresponds directly to a displacement of the operating means and a sliding of the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the gripping portion <NUM> is disposed eccentrically relative to the central axis X.

In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the gripping portion <NUM> comprises a rod made in one piece with the operating means and extending away from it. Looking in more detail, the rod has a first end that is integrated in the operating means and a second end that extends radially from the central axis X. In an embodiment, the second end might be covered with a non-slip material, such as rubber, for example, to make it easier for an operator to hold the gripping portion.

To further facilitate placing the clamp <NUM> on the tyre P, the clamp <NUM> comprises a handgrip <NUM>, connected to the clamp body <NUM> and positioned in a plane containing one of the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the central axis X.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the handgrip <NUM> is applied directly to one of the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In a possible embodiment, the handgrip <NUM> is cantilevered to the end of the upper arm <NUM> so that it juts out from the upper arm <NUM> and can be easily gripped by an operator.

In use, therefore, when the clamp <NUM> needs to be applied to the tyre P, an operator grips the handgrip <NUM> and the gripping portion <NUM> to orient the clamp <NUM> so that the upper arm <NUM> is directed vertically relative to the ground (<FIG>, <FIG>).

Next, the operator moves the operating means in such a way as to move the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> away simultaneously towards the extracted position so as to occupy a position that is radially spaced from the central axis X by a distance greater than that between the axis of rotation of the tyre and the tyre tread B (<FIG>).

Next, the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the tyre P so that one of the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, preferably the upper slider <NUM>, abuts an upper portion of the tyre tread B and so that the central axis X lies along the axis of rotation of the tyre P and the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" of each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is in contact with the sidewall F of the tyre P.

In this situation, using the handgrip <NUM> to hold the clamp <NUM> in contact with the tyre P, the operator uses the gripping portion <NUM> to move the operating means <NUM> so the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> move to the retracted position.

The sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> stop moving towards the retracted position when the side abutment portions <NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>' of the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> abut up against the tread B of the tyre P and apply pressure on it so as to securely tighten the clamp <NUM> around the tyre P.

To enable the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to remain at the position reached to keep their hold on the tyre P by applying pressure on the tread B, the clamp <NUM> comprises a locking device <NUM>.

More specifically, the locking device <NUM> is movable between a locked position, where it acts on the operating mechanism to prevent the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from moving, and an unlocked position, where it allows the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to move.

In other words, when the clamp <NUM> is applied to the tyre P and the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are gripping the tyre tread B, the locking device <NUM> is configured to prevent the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from unwantedly slipping towards the extracted position and thus from releasing the clamp <NUM> from the tyre P.

The locking device <NUM> thus prevents the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from slackening their grip on the tyre P on account of an elastic return force applied by the tyre P itself on the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> themselves.

In a possible embodiment, shown in the accompanying drawings, the locking device <NUM> comprises a braking element 90a which, at the locked position, is configured to apply a locking pressure on the operating means by means of a vice.

The braking element 90a thus acts on the operating means like a disc brake, where the vice holds the operating means in place and stops it from unwantedly moving.

To switch the locking device <NUM> between the locked and the unlocked position, the clamp <NUM> comprises an actuating mechanism, operatively connected to the locking device <NUM> and operable by the user.

In a possible embodiment, the actuating mechanism includes a control means 91a, for example, a lever or a button or a movable knob, operable by the user with the hand that is holding the handgrip <NUM>.

An example is shown in the accompanying drawings, where the braking element 90a is actuated by a lever positioned near the handgrip <NUM> and connected to the braking element 90a by a connecting cable.

In use, according to an aspect of the disclosure, the operator acts on the lever of the braking element 90a (for example, by pulling it towards the handgrip <NUM>) using the hand that is holding the handgrip <NUM> itself, thus allowing the operating means to rotate and the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to move.

In this situation, the braking element 90a is released and the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are free to run along the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. On the contrary, to prevent the operating means from rotating and the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from moving, the operator releases the lever so that the braking element 90a can act on the operating means.

To facilitate adjustment of the clamp <NUM> on the wheel R, the clamp <NUM> comprises a rolling support system.

More specifically, the plurality of sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> includes the rolling support system, which is configured to come into direct contact with the tyre P and which is rotatable idly about an axis of rotation.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, the rolling support system may comprise rolling elements located at different points of the clamp <NUM> and each rotating idly about its own axis.

In a preferred embodiment, each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> has at least one rolling element configured to come into contact with the tyre P and to roll on it so that the clamp <NUM> can be positioned correctly relative to the wheel R.

More specifically, according to an aspect of this disclosure, the rolling support system includes at least a first rolling element forming part of the upper slider <NUM> and rotating idly about an axis parallel with the central axis X or with the upper axis S and at least a second rolling element forming part of at least one of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> and rotating idly about an axis transverse to the lateral axis L1, L2 of the lateral arm <NUM>, <NUM> of the at least one lateral slider <NUM>, <NUM>.

In this situation, the upper slider <NUM> and at least one of the two lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> have at least one rolling element.

In the embodiment illustrated, the rolling support system includes, besides the first rolling element, a further rolling element on the upper slider <NUM>. In this situation, the first rolling element and the further rolling element rotate idly about the axis parallel with the central axis X and with the upper axis S, respectively.

In the embodiment illustrated, the rolling support system also includes at least a second rolling element for each of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM>. More specifically, each lateral slider <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a plurality of rolling elements whose axes of rotation are parallel with each other and orthogonal to the lateral axis L1, L2 of the respective lateral arm <NUM>, <NUM>.

Advantageously, the fact that the rolling support system has at least one rolling element for each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> allows the slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> associated with it, once the rolling element has been moved into contact with the tyre P to roll on the tyre so as to adjust the position of the clamp <NUM> without having to move it way from the wheel R repeatedly, as described below.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the rolling support system comprises an adjustment tube <NUM> adapted to come into abutment against the tread B of the tyre P.

The adjustment tube <NUM> is rotatably associated with the side abutment portion <NUM>' of the upper slider <NUM> to rotate about an upper axis of rotation Q parallel with the central axis.

As may be seen in the accompanying drawings, the side abutment portion <NUM>' of the upper slider <NUM> is elongated along the upper axis of rotation Q and the tube <NUM> is rotatably fitted on the side abutment portion <NUM>' so as to also extend along the upper axis of rotation Q.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the adjustment tube <NUM> has rotational symmetry.

More specifically, the adjustment tube <NUM> is made in the form of a hollow cylinder so it can be rotatably engaged with the side abutment portion <NUM>' of the upper slider <NUM>.

The adjustment tube <NUM> also comprises an outside surface provided with a plurality of mutually spaced annular protrusions <NUM> coaxial with the upper axis of rotation Q.

In the preferred embodiment, the annular protrusions <NUM> define a saw-toothed profile whose tooth set is oriented towards the central axis X.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the rolling support system comprises an adjustment roller <NUM> adapted to come into abutment against the sidewall F of the tyre P.

The adjustment roller <NUM> is rotatably coupled to the front adjustment portion <NUM>" of the upper slider <NUM> to rotate idly about an axis of rotation parallel with the upper axis S.

In the preferred embodiment, the adjustment roller <NUM> has a substantially smooth outside surface which facilitates rolling on the sidewall F of the tyre P.

In another possible embodiment, the adjustment roller <NUM> might be made in the form of a spherical body capable of allowing the position of the clamp <NUM> to be adjusted in all directions.

In a possible embodiment of this disclosure, the rolling support system may also comprise, for each lateral slider <NUM>, <NUM>, one or more rolling elements <NUM> configured to abut the sidewall F of the tyre P.

The rolling elements <NUM> are mounted on the front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>" of the respective lateral slider <NUM>, <NUM> and rotate about axes which are oriented transversely to the lateral axis L1, L2 of the respective lateral arm <NUM>, <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment, each lateral slider <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a plurality of rolling elements <NUM> that rotate idly about axes of rotation that are parallel with each other and perpendicular to the respective lateral axes L1, L2.

In the preferred embodiment, the rolling elements <NUM> have a dimension, measured along the respective lateral axes L1, L2, that is greater than the dimension measured transversely to these axes, that is to say, they are made in the form of discs.

In another possible embodiment, the rolling elements <NUM> might be made in the form of spherical bodies capable of allowing the position of the clamp <NUM> to be adjusted in all directions.

According to an aspect of this disclosure, the adjustment roller <NUM> and the rolling elements <NUM> are at the same maximum distance from the rear plane so that the clamp <NUM> moves correctly into abutment against the sidewall F of the tyre P. In the same way, the adjustment tube <NUM> and the knurling <NUM> of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> are equidistant from the central axis X so as to facilitate centring the clamp <NUM>.

The adjustment tube <NUM>, the adjustment roller <NUM> and the rolling elements <NUM> act in conjunction in such a way that once the clamp <NUM> has been juxtaposed with the tyre P, its position relative to the wheel R can be corrected and adjusted without having to move the clamp <NUM> backwards and forwards repeatedly, as described in detail hereunder.

In use, with reference to the accompanying drawings, when the clamp <NUM> needs to be applied to the tyre P, an operator grips the handgrip <NUM> and the gripping portion <NUM> to orient the clamp <NUM> so that the upper arm <NUM> is directed vertically relative to the ground (<FIG>).

The sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are moved to the extracted position by means of the operating mechanism. Next, the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the wheel R so that the upper slider <NUM> is positioned with its side abutment portion <NUM>' abutting against a zone at the top of the tread B of the tyre P.

Looking in more detail, the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the wheel R so that the adjustment tube <NUM> comes into abutment in proximity to the top of the tread B and the central axis X coincides with the axis of the wheel R.

Although the operator tries to position the clamp <NUM> as precisely as possible, it may nevertheless be misaligned relative to the wheel R, making it necessary to adjust the position of the clamp <NUM> before moving the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to the retracted position.

In this situation, thanks to the strategic positioning of the rolling elements of the rolling support system on the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the clamp <NUM> can be adjusted without moving it away from the wheel R.

Looking in more detail, when the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the wheel R, it comes into contact with the tyre P with the front abutment portions <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" of each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and with the side abutment portion <NUM>' of the upper slider <NUM>. In this situation, the adjustment tube <NUM> and the adjustment roller <NUM> abut the tread B and the sidewall F of the tyre P, respectively, while the rolling elements <NUM> abut the sidewall F of the tyre P (<FIG>).

That way, if the position of the clamp <NUM> on the wheel R needs to be adjusted, the user can keep the upper slider <NUM> in contact with the tyre P and the front abutment portions <NUM>", <NUM>" of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> in contact with the sidewall F of the tyre P and, by letting the adjustment tube <NUM>, the adjustment roller <NUM> and rolling elements <NUM> roll, can suitably orient the clamp <NUM> to adjust its position relative to the wheel R.

As shown, for example, in <FIG>, if the clamp <NUM> has been juxtaposed with the wheel R so that the central axis X is aligned with the axis of the wheel R but the upper slider <NUM> is not aligned vertically with the centre of the wheel R (and the upper arm <NUM> is not perpendicular to the ground), the clamp <NUM> can easily be rotated about the central axis X by rolling the adjustment tube <NUM> along the top of the tread B.

Looking in more detail, while keeping the clamp <NUM> (that is to say, the front abutment portions <NUM>", <NUM>" of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> and the upper slider <NUM>) in contact with the tyre P, the user lets the adjustment tube roll <NUM> along the tyre tread B, specifically along the top portion of it, causing the clamp <NUM> to rotate about the central axis X. While the adjustment tube <NUM> rotates about the upper axis of rotation Q in contact with the tyre tread B, the adjustment roller <NUM> and the rolling elements <NUM> roll on the sidewall F of the tyre P to prevent the front abutment portions <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" of the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from rubbing against the sidewall F of the tyre P and causing unwanted jamming and scraping.

As shown in <FIG>, on the other hand, if the clamp <NUM> has been juxtaposed with the wheel R so that the central axis X is not aligned with the axis of the wheel R but the upper slider <NUM> is substantially aligned vertically with the centre of the wheel R, the clamp <NUM> can be made to swivel about the adjustment tube <NUM> so as to align the central axis X with the axis of the wheel R.

In this situation, a useful feature is the fact that the adjustment tube <NUM> is rotatably connected to the side abutment portion <NUM>' of the upper slider <NUM>. More in detail, the user keeps the clamp <NUM> in contact with the tyre P and lets the clamp <NUM> swivel about the adjustment tube <NUM> so as to bring the central axis X into alignment with the axis of rotation of the wheel R.

During the swivelling motion of the clamp <NUM>, the adjustment roller <NUM> and the rolling elements <NUM> roll on the sidewall F of the tyre P so that the clamp <NUM> can be positioned on the wheel R in such a way that its central axis X is aligned with the axis of rotation of the wheel R.

As shown in <FIG>, on the other hand, if the wheel R the clamp <NUM> is applied to is particularly large in diameter, the clamp <NUM> may be juxtaposed with the wheel R in such a way that the central axis X is parallel with (and at the same height from the ground as) the axis of the wheel R and the upper arm <NUM> is perpendicular to the ground without the upper slider <NUM> being disposed on the top of the tread B (that is to say, without the upper slider <NUM> being vertically aligned with the centre of the wheel R). In this situation, if the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> were moved to the retracted position, the clamp <NUM> would (purely in terms of spatial orientation) be oriented correctly relative to the wheel R but "offset" relative to the centre of the wheel R.

To avoid this risk, by lifting the adjustment tube <NUM> slightly off the tyre tread B and keeping the adjustment roller <NUM> and the rolling elements <NUM> in contact with the sidewall F of the tyre P, the clamp <NUM> can be translated in such a way that the central axis X coincides with the axis of the wheel R and the upper slider <NUM> is on the top of the tyre tread B and vertically aligned with the centre of the wheel R.

Advantageously, providing a rolling element on each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, specifically on each portion of the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that comes into contact with the tyre P when the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the wheel R, allows adjusting the position of the clamp <NUM> on the wheel R without having to move it away from the wheel but keeping at least one of the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> in contact with the tyre P to act as a guide.

Also an object of this invention is a method for applying a clamp <NUM> to a vehicle wheel.

The method comprises a step of preparing a clamp <NUM> comprising a body <NUM> including a plurality of arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> disposed radially around a central axis X.

In the preferred embodiment, the plurality of arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises an upper arm <NUM> extending along an upper axis S that is oriented radially relative to the central axis X and a pair of lateral arms <NUM>, <NUM> extending along respective lateral axes L1, L2 that are oriented radially relative to the central axis X.

In the preferred embodiment, each lateral axis L1, L2 is angularly spaced from the upper axis S by an angle greater than <NUM>°.

The clamp <NUM> also comprises a plurality of sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> slidably coupled to the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to move radially between a retracted position, where they are proximal to the central axis X, and an extracted position, where they are distal to the central axis X.

In the preferred embodiment, the plurality of sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises an upper slider <NUM> that is slidable along the upper arm <NUM> which is operatively configured to position the upper slider <NUM> in contact with the top of the tyre P.

In the preferred embodiment, the plurality of sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises, besides the upper slider <NUM>, a pair of lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> that are slidable along the respective lateral arms <NUM>, <NUM> which are operatively configured to position the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> in contact with zones of the tyre P positioned at a height from the ground below the height occupied by the centre of the wheel R.

The clamp <NUM> also comprises an operating mechanism configured to allow simultaneously moving the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from the retracted position to the extracted position and vice versa.

In other terms, the operating mechanism allows the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to run along the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to occupy the same radial position relative to the central axis X, that is to say, so that the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are equidistant from the central axis X.

In the preferred embodiment, the operating mechanism comprises an operating means that is rotatably connected to the body <NUM> to rotate about the central axis X and a plurality of levers, each having a first end that is articulated to the operating means, and a second end that is articulated to a corresponding slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the plurality of sliders to allow the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to be moved simultaneously from the retracted position to the extracted position and vice versa.

More specifically, actuating the operating mechanism to move the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> towards the retracted position causes the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> to move towards the wheel R until stopping against the tread B of the tyre P.

The operating mechanism also comprises a gripping portion <NUM> grippable by a user and associated with the operating means to slidably move the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The gripping portion <NUM> is connected to the operating means alternatively directly or indirectly, for example, by a kinematic coupling including gears or cables.

The clamp <NUM> also comprises a locking device <NUM> which is movable between a locked position, where it prevents the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from moving, and an unlocked position, where it allows them to move.

In the embodiment illustrated, the locking device <NUM> comprises a braking element 90a configured to apply a locking pressure on the operating means to prevent it from rotating and thus preventing the slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> from moving.

The clamp <NUM> also comprises a rolling support system included in the plurality of sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and configured to come into direct contact with the tyre P.

In a possible embodiment, the rolling support system includes at least a first rolling element forming part of the upper slider <NUM> and rotating idly about an axis parallel with the central axis X or with the upper axis S and at least a second rolling element forming part of at least one of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> and rotating idly about an axis transverse, preferably orthogonal, to the lateral axis L1, L2 of the lateral arm <NUM>, <NUM> of the lateral slider <NUM>, <NUM>.

After the step of preparing, the method comprises a step of actuating the operating mechanism to move the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> simultaneously towards the extracted position. More specifically, during this step, an operator operatively holding the gripping portion <NUM>, releases the locking device and moves the operating means which, thanks to the connecting levers, causes the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to slide towards the extracted position.

In this situation, the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned on the respective arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> at a radial distance from the central axis X which is greater than the distance between the centre of the tyre P and its tread B. Next, the method comprises a step of juxtaposing the clamp <NUM> with the vehicle wheel R until the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> surround the tread B of the tyre P.

The clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the tyre P in such a way that the upper arm <NUM> is vertical to the ground. In this situation, the upper slider <NUM> is placed in proximity to the tread B of the wheel R in such a way that at least its side abutment portion <NUM>' rests on the top thereof.

Looking in more detail, the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the tyre P in such a way that each slider <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> rests its front abutment portion <NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>" against the sidewall F of the tyre P and the upper slider <NUM> also rests its side abutment portion <NUM>' on the tread B of the tyre P. In this situation, the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> are equidistant from the central axis X and their side abutment portions <NUM>', <NUM>' are distal to the tread B.

Next, the method comprises a step of adjusting the position of the clamp <NUM> on the wheel R by rotating the clamp <NUM> so as to cause at least part of the rolling support to rotate.

In effect, the clamp <NUM> may in some cases be incorrectly positioned on the wheel R, that is to say, its central axis X might not be aligned with the wheel R and its upper arm <NUM> might not be perpendicular to the ground for the upper slider <NUM> to be vertically aligned with the centre of the wheel R.

In this situation, it is necessary to perform a step of adjusting the position of the clamp <NUM> on the wheel R.

More specifically, the position of the clamp <NUM> can be adjusted by keeping at least one part of the rolling support in contact with the tyre P of the wheel R so as to avoid having to move the clamp <NUM> backwards and forwards repeatedly relative to the wheel R.

According to an aspect of the disclosure, the rolling support system comprises at least one between an adjustment tube <NUM> and an adjustment roller <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment, the rolling support system comprises both the adjustment tube <NUM> and the adjustment roller <NUM>.

More specifically, the adjustment tube <NUM> is rotatably coupled to the side abutment portion <NUM>' of the upper slider <NUM> while the adjustment roller <NUM> is rotatably coupled to the front abutment portion <NUM>" of the upper slider <NUM>.

In the step of adjusting, the adjustment tube <NUM> abuts the top zone of the tyre P and rolls on the tread B of the tyre P, while the adjustment roller <NUM> abuts the sidewall F of the tyre P.

Looking in more detail, the step of adjusting comprises rotating the adjustment tube <NUM> and the adjustment roller <NUM> so as to cause the clamp <NUM> to rotate, swivel or translate relative to the wheel R.

A first type of adjustment might be necessary when the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the wheel R in such a way that the central axis X is substantially coincident (aligned) with the axis of rotation of the wheel R but the upper slider <NUM> is not vertically aligned with the centre of the wheel R (that is to say, the upper arm <NUM> is not perpendicular to the ground), as shown in <FIG>.

In this situation, while keeping the clamp <NUM> in contact with the tyre P, the user lets the adjustment tube roll <NUM> along the tyre tread B, specifically along the top portion of it, causing the clamp <NUM> to rotate about the central axis X. While the adjustment tube <NUM> rotates about the upper axis of rotation Q in contact with the tyre tread B, the adjustment roller <NUM> rolls on the sidewall F of the tyre P to prevent the front abutment portion <NUM>" of the upper slider <NUM> from rubbing against the sidewall F of the tyre P and causing unwanted jamming and scraping.

A second type of adjustment might be necessary when the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the wheel R in such a way that the upper slider <NUM> is substantially vertically aligned with the centre of the wheel R but the central axis X of the clamp <NUM> is not aligned with the axis of rotation of the wheel R, as shown, for example, in <FIG>.

During the swivelling motion of the clamp <NUM>, the adjustment roller <NUM> rolls on the sidewall F of the tyre P to allow correctly positioning the clamp <NUM>.

The presence of the adjustment roller <NUM> might also be advantageous in the case where the user needs to move the clamp <NUM> in translation without rotating it in any way.

In effect, if the clamp <NUM> is juxtaposed with the tyre P with the upper arm <NUM> perpendicular to the ground, the upper slider <NUM> offset relative to the top of the tread B and the central axis parallel with the axis of the wheel R (<FIG>), the clamp <NUM> can simply be translated relative to the tyre P, using the adjustment roller <NUM>.

More specifically, by lifting the side abutment portion <NUM>' a little and moving it away from the tread B, the clamp <NUM> can be made to move in translation while keeping the adjustment roller <NUM> in contact with the sidewall F of the tyre P so as to find the centred position where the central axis X of the clamp <NUM> is aligned or substantially aligned with the axis of the wheel R.

In the preferred embodiment, the rolling support system also comprises a plurality of rolling elements <NUM> rotatably coupled to the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM>.

The rolling elements <NUM> come into contact with the sidewall F of the tyre P during the step of juxtaposing the clamp <NUM> and run on the sidewall F during the step of adjusting so as to prevent the front abutment portions <NUM>", <NUM>" of the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> from rubbing against the sidewall F.

After the above mentioned steps of adjusting, the method comprises a step of actuating the operating mechanism to move the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> simultaneously towards the retracted position and a simultaneous step of rolling the rolling support system on an outside surface of the tyre P.

More specifically, as the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> move towards the tyre P with the upper slider <NUM> already in contact with the top zone of the tyre P, the rolling elements <NUM> roll along the sidewall F of the tyre P to make it easier for the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> to move in translation towards the central axis X.

In other words, even when the sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> pass from the extracted position to the retracted position, the rolling elements <NUM> make it possible to prevent the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM>, specifically the front abutment portions <NUM>", <NUM>" thereof, from scraping or jamming when the clamp <NUM> is adjusted on the wheel R as described above and/or when the lateral sliders <NUM>, <NUM> are moved to the retracted position.

This invention achieves the preset aims and overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

The clamp <NUM> is easy to apply to the wheel R and is easy to adjust.

To adjust it, the clamp <NUM> does not need to be repeatedly moved towards and away from the wheel R but can be kept in contact with the wheel R with at least part of the rolling support system.

Claim 1:
A clamp (<NUM>) applicable to a tyre (P) of a vehicle wheel (R) and comprising:
- a body (<NUM>) including a plurality of arms (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extending radially from a central axis (X) and angularly distributed around the central axis (X);
- a plurality of sliders (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), each slidably coupled to a respective arm (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to move radially between a retracted position, where it is at a first distance from the central axis (X), and an extracted position, where it is at a second distance from the central axis (X), greater than the first distance, each slider (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) including a side abutment portion (<NUM>', <NUM>', <NUM>'), running parallel with the central axis (X) and configured to abut against a tread (B) of the tyre (P), and a front abutment portion (<NUM>", <NUM>", <NUM>"), running parallel with a respective arm (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and configured to abut against a sidewall (F) of the tyre (P);
- an operating mechanism configured to allow simultaneously moving the sliders (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) from the retracted position to the extracted position and vice versa;
the clamp (<NUM>) being characterized in that the plurality of sliders (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) includes a rolling support system configured to come into rolling direct contact with the tyre (P) and rotatable idly about an axis of rotation such that once the clamp (<NUM>) has been juxtaposed with the tyre (P), its position relative to the wheel (R) can be adjusted by rolling movement of the rolling support system on an outside surface of the tyre (P).