Inflatable tires were invented in the 1800s and are still widely used today, despite the fact that they require regular pumping and are prone to going flat or exploding. These tires have many disadvantages, such as becoming bloated in hot weather, deflating in cold weather, or unexpectedly bursting while on the road. So, why are inflatable tires still the norm in the modern world?
The first patent for an inflatable tire was granted in 1845 to inventor Robert William Thomson of England. His design involved creating a cushion of air around the wheels to reduce friction and make transportation easier. Thomson’s invention utilized materials like sulfur rubber or gutta-percha, as synthetic rubber had not yet been developed.
John Boyd Dunlop, a Scottish veterinarian living in Ireland, was inspired to reinvent the pneumatic tire after seeing his son struggle to ride a tricycle. His tires, made from vulcanized rubber, quickly gained popularity and became commercially successful. Advantages of inflatable tires over hard tires include increased speed and comfort, as well as reduced rolling resistance due to the compressibility of air.
Air-filled tires are able to absorb shocks better than solid tires, making for a smoother ride, especially at high speeds. The lighter weight of air compared to solid rubber also contributes to lower rolling resistance, making inflatable tires more energy-efficient. Despite the potential drawbacks of inflatable tires, their advantages in terms of speed, comfort, and energy efficiency have solidified their place in modern transportation.