Survivability Enhanced Run-Flat Variable Footprint Tires

The military has a unique requirement to operate in different terrains throughout the world. The ability to travel in as much varying terrain as possible provides the military greater tactical options. This requirementneed is for the tire to provide a variable footprint to allow for different ground pressure. Much of the current run-flat technology utilized by the military severely limits mobility and adds significant weight to the unsprung mass. This technology gap has allowed for the development of new run-flat tire technology. New tire technology fig 1 has been developed that substantially increases survivability, eliminates the need for heavy run-flat inserts, significantly reduces air pressure requirements and provides full or near full speed capability in degradeddamaged mode punctured tire. This run-flat technology is built directly into the tire, yet maintains the normal variable footprint of a normal pneumatic tire. This makes the tirewheel assembly much lighter and far more survivable than normal military run-flat technology. Safety, logistics, economics, and fuel economy are additional benefits this tire technology provides over current military tires with run-flat inserts.