ABSTRACT
In the early 1900s when Harvey Firestone produced his tread design consisting of the words “Non-Skid” placed repeatedly at an angle across the tread surface (Figure 1.7A and Figure 7.1A), the design was not just added to the surface after the tire was made, but was actually engraved in the mold and thus was an actual molded design.1 Other tire manufacturers also changed to molded tread designs, as illustrated in the Goodyear diamond design in Figure 1.7B. A few early tire designs are featured in Figure 7.1A-F. As cars and roads improved and speed limits increased, tire science and technology continued to evolve with the automobile. Today’s car and truck tires last for a longer period of time and travel at much higher speeds in both wet and dry conditions. The variety of vehicle types and uses demand a large selection of tire designs and sizes to provide tires whose qualities and performance are suited for different vehicles and uses.
