Method for associating identification information with a tyre being processed and apparatus operating according to said method

Abstract

A method for associating identification information with a tire (30) being processed includes: performing a first operation of reading an RFID tag (10) before or during molding the tire (30) to obtain a first identification code (ID1) from the RFID tag; performing a second operation of reading the RFID tag (10) to obtain a second identification code (ID2) from the RFID tag (10) at the end of molding and before vulcanizing the tire (30); activating a processor (100) to compare the first identification code (ID1) with the second identification code (ID2). If the first identification code (ID1) matches the second identification code (ID2), an RFID tag writing device (200) is activated to perform a writing operation, thereby writing identification information (X) of the tire (30) being processed into the RFID tag (10). An apparatus for associating identification information with a tire being processed is also described.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for associating identification information with a tire being processed.

[0002] The present invention also relates to an apparatus for associating identification information with a tire being processed. Background Technology

[0003] Tires for wheels typically include a carcass structure comprising at least one carcass ply having opposing end flaps that engage with corresponding annular anchoring structures, often referred to as "bead wires," integrated into an area commonly referred to as a "bead," the inner diameter of which substantially matches the so-called "fitting diameter" of the tire used to mount the tire onto the corresponding rim. The tire also includes a crown structure comprising at least one belt strip located radially outward relative to the carcass ply, and a tread belt located radially outward of the belt strip. Between the tread belt and the belt strip(s), a so-called elastomeric material "underlayer" may be inserted, its properties adapted to provide a stable bond between the belt strip(s) and the tread belt. Furthermore, corresponding sidewalls of the elastomeric material are applied to the side surfaces of the carcass structure, each extending from one of the side edges of the tread belt to the corresponding annular bead anchoring structure. In tubeless tires, the inner layer of the carcass ply is coated with an elastomeric material, preferably a butyl elastomer, commonly referred to as the "liner," which provides optimal airtightness and extends from one bead to another.

[0004] The term "elastomer material" refers to a composite comprising at least one elastomeric polymer and at least one reinforcing filler. Preferably, the compound also comprises additives, such as crosslinking agents and / or plasticizers. Due to the presence of the crosslinking agent, the material can be crosslinked by heating to form a final product.

[0005] A tire “component” or “structural component” refers to any part or portion of a tire that performs a specific function. For example, tire components include: inner liner, underliner, sidewall inserts, bead wires, filler inserts, wear-resistant ply, sidewall, (multiple) carcass plies, (multiple) belt plies, tread belt, tread belt underlayer, belt under-instrument, etc., or portions thereof.

[0006] "Tires being processed" refers to tires that have not yet completed the molding process, i.e., where the structural components have not yet been fully assembled, and / or where all necessary checks and / or operations have not yet been performed before the molding and vulcanization processes.

[0007] The terms “molding,” “molding process,” and “molding operation” refer to all the operations (including manufacturing, inspection, and verification operations) that a tire undergoes before molding and vulcanization.

[0008] The term "tire" can refer to a treated tire or a molded and vulcanized tire, without further explanation.

[0009] An "RFID tag" refers to an identification device equipped with a memory and a transceiver module. The memory stores at least one identification code explicitly associated with the RFID tag. The transceiver module operates based on RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology.

[0010] A "passive RFID tag" refers to an RFID tag that responds by transmitting data contained in its own memory when queried by an RFID reading system. Preferably, a passive RFID tag does not have a battery or self-powered power source. It is powered by radiation emitted by the RFID reading system.

[0011] A “reading system” refers to a device or set of devices configured to communicate with one or more RFID tags via RFID technology. Preferably, each reading device is configured to transmit a reading signal at a certain period. When an RFID tag receives such a reading signal, it responds by transmitting data contained in its own memory.

[0012] Document EP 2 186 658 A1 describes a tire and electronic device assembly, and a method for incorporating the electronic device into a tire. The assembly includes an electronic device comprising an RFID tag, a dipole antenna, and a composite having a dielectric constant and conductivity compatible with the operation of the dipole antenna. At least a portion of the RFID tag and the dipole antenna is embedded in the composite. The RFID tag is operatively mounted in the tire, located between a triangular rubber component above one of the tire's two beads and the sidewall, or at a predetermined distance above the end of a ply of parallel cords perpendicular to the ply.

[0013] Document EP 2 524 818 A2 describes a tire and an embedded RFID tag assembly, as well as a method for manufacturing the assembly. The assembly includes a tire carcass; the carcass includes at least one radially inner ply member extending around a bead core to a ply reverse portion. The ply reverse portion extends radially outward from the bead core to the ply reverse end. The carcass also includes a stop layer positioned axially inward from and adjacent to the ply member. The stop layer does not extend around the bead core. The assembly includes an RFID tag embedded in the tire carcass in a lower sidewall region between the stop layer and the ply member, located between 10% and 40% of the tire's cross-sectional height.

[0014] The applicant observed that the presence and proper functioning of RFID tags installed on tires are extremely important, especially for tire identification, traceability, and verification purposes. The applicant particularly noted that it is virtually impossible to remedy the missing or malfunctioning RFID tags after the tire molding and vulcanization process. If an RFID tag is missing or malfunctioning, the tire must be discarded.

[0015] The applicant has confirmed that the main issues regarding the association between tires and RFID tags are as follows:

[0016] - The RFID tag was unexpectedly not installed on the tire;

[0017] - The RFID tag is installed, but it is not working or is not working correctly;

[0018] - Installing multiple RFID tags instead of just one can lead to redundancy and potentially impact total production costs. Furthermore, if the information contained in the RFID tags is not identical, the correspondence between that information (located on the RFID tags) and the tires is lost.

[0019] The applicant also observed that the context in which RFID tags are associated with tires and undergo read / write operations is typically industrial structures containing numerous metallic objects that contribute to creating an environment that promotes electromagnetic field reflection. This is an additional risk factor that could lead to errors when reading / writing RFID tags associated with or to be associated with tires.

[0020] Within this framework, the applicant believes it is necessary to reduce the occurrence of tires having to be discarded due to RFID tags that are malfunctioning.

[0021] The applicant then realized that, in order to avoid the aforementioned problems, the proper course of action was to check for any defects / malfunctions related to the RFID tags that must be present on the tires as early as possible, and to ensure that the RFID tags being read / written were actually associated with the corresponding tires.

[0022] In particular, as the applicant perceives, verifying the presence and proper operation of RFID tags, as well as verifying their association with the corresponding tire, should avoid any tire molding and / or vulcanization process that results in a non-functional, compliant RFID tag.

[0023] Therefore, the applicant discovered that by conducting a first inspection before or during the tire molding process, and a second inspection at the end of the molding stage and before the vulcanization stage, the presence and correct operation of the RFID tag associated with the corresponding tire can be verified precisely and accurately. Furthermore, by verifying that the RFID tag detected during the first inspection is the same RFID tag detected during the second inspection, it can be ensured that the RFID tag is indeed the one associated with the tire, and not, for example, another RFID tag that might be present nearby and mistakenly detected. Summary of the Invention

[0024] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a method for associating identification information with a tire being processed.

[0025] Preferably, it is envisioned that the RFID tag be associated with the tire being processed.

[0026] Preferably, it is envisioned that the first operation of reading the RFID tag is performed.

[0027] Preferably, it is envisioned that a first identification code is obtained from the RFID tag through the first reading operation.

[0028] Preferably, the first reading operation is envisioned to be performed before or during the tire being processed and formed.

[0029] Preferably, it is envisioned that a second read operation is performed.

[0030] Preferably, the second reading operation is envisioned to be performed at the end of the molding process.

[0031] Preferably, the second reading operation is envisioned to be performed before the tire being vulcanized.

[0032] Preferably, it is envisioned that the second identification code is obtained through the second read operation.

[0033] Preferably, it is envisioned that the processor is activated to compare the first identification code with the second identification code.

[0034] Preferably, it is envisioned that the RFID tag writing device is activated.

[0035] Preferably, it is envisioned that the RFID tag writing device is activated to perform a writing operation, thereby writing the identification information of the tire being processed onto the RFID tag.

[0036] Preferably, it is envisioned that when the first identification code matches the second identification code, the RFID tag writing device is activated to perform the writing operation.

[0037] The applicant believes that this allows for timely detection of missing or incorrectly operated RFID tags, as well as verification of the actual connection between the RFID tags and the tires being processed.

[0038] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a device for associating identification information with a tire being processed.

[0039] Preferably, a reading system is used.

[0040] Preferably, the reading system is configured to read RFID tags.

[0041] Preferably, a processor is used.

[0042] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the reading system.

[0043] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the reading system in order to perform a first operation of reading the RFID tag.

[0044] Preferably, the processor is configured to obtain a first identification code from the RFID tag via the first read operation.

[0045] Preferably, the processor is envisioned to be configured to activate the reading system so as to perform the first reading operation before or during the forming of the tire being processed.

[0046] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the reading system in order to perform a second reading operation.

[0047] Preferably, the processor is configured to obtain the second identification code through the second read operation.

[0048] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the reading system so as to perform the second reading operation at the end of the molding process.

[0049] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the reading system to perform the second reading operation prior to the vulcanization of the tire being processed.

[0050] Preferably, the processor is configured to compare the first identification code with the second identification code.

[0051] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the RFID tag writing device.

[0052] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the RFID tag writing device when the first identification code matches the second identification code.

[0053] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the RFID tag writing device to perform a writing operation, thereby writing the identification information of the tire being processed onto the RFID tag.

[0054] In at least one of the foregoing aspects, the present invention may have at least one of the following preferred features.

[0055] Preferably, it is envisioned that additional code be associated with the tire being processed.

[0056] Preferably, the additional code is a barcode.

[0057] Preferably, it is envisioned that the additional code is read.

[0058] Preferably, the identification information of the tire being processed is assumed to include the additional code.

[0059] Preferably, an alarm signal is generated if the first read operation does not allow the acquisition of the first identification code.

[0060] Preferably, an alarm signal is generated if the second read operation does not allow the acquisition of the second identification code.

[0061] Preferably, an alarm signal is generated if the first identification code does not match the second identification code.

[0062] Preferably, the first reading operation is performed by a first RFID tag reading device.

[0063] Preferably, the second reading operation is performed by a second RFID tag reading device.

[0064] Preferably, it is envisioned that the RFID tag be associated with a tire component.

[0065] Preferably, it is envisioned that the RFID tag is associated with the tire component before the component is associated with the tire being processed.

[0066] Preferably, the first reading device is located at a forming station that performs at least one operation to form the tire being processed.

[0067] Preferably, it is envisioned that the RFID tag be associated with the tire being processed.

[0068] Preferably, the second reading device is located downstream of the molding station.

[0069] Preferably, it is envisioned that a third read operation is performed.

[0070] Preferably, the third reading operation is envisioned to be performed after the tire being treated has undergone vulcanization.

[0071] Preferably, the stored data is obtained through the third read operation.

[0072] Preferably, it is envisioned that the processor is activated to compare the stored data with the first identification code.

[0073] Preferably, it is envisioned that the processor is activated to compare the stored data with the second identification code.

[0074] Preferably, it is envisioned that the processor is activated to compare the stored data with the identification information.

[0075] Preferably, it is envisioned that if the stored data does not match the first identification code, the processor is activated to generate an alarm signal.

[0076] Preferably, it is envisioned that if the stored data does not match the second identification code, the processor is activated to generate an alarm signal.

[0077] Preferably, it is envisioned that if the stored data does not match the identification information, the processor is activated to generate an alarm signal.

[0078] Preferably, the reading system is envisioned to include a first reading device.

[0079] Preferably, the first reading device is located at the forming station.

[0080] Preferably, the reading system is envisioned to include a second reading device.

[0081] Preferably, the second reading device is located downstream of the forming station.

[0082] Preferably, the first reading operation is performed by the first reading device.

[0083] Preferably, the second reading operation is performed by the second reading device.

[0084] Preferably, a detection device is used.

[0085] Preferably, the detection device is configured to detect additional code.

[0086] Preferably, the additional code is envisioned to be associated with the tire being processed.

[0087] Preferably, the additional code is envisioned to be a barcode.

[0088] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the detection device.

[0089] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the detection device in order to detect the additional code.

[0090] Preferably, the processor is configured to provide the additional code to the RFID tag writing device.

[0091] Preferably, the processor is configured to provide the additional code to the RFID tag writing device so as to include the additional code in the identification information.

[0092] Preferably, the processor is configured to generate an alarm signal if the first read operation does not allow the first identification code to be obtained.

[0093] Preferably, the processor is configured to generate an alarm signal if the second read operation does not allow the second identification code to be obtained.

[0094] Preferably, the processor is configured to generate an alarm signal if the result is a mismatch between the first identification code and the second identification code.

[0095] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the reading system in order to perform a third reading operation.

[0096] Preferably, the processor is configured to activate the reading system so as to perform the third reading operation after the tire being processed has undergone vulcanization.

[0097] Preferably, the processor is configured to obtain stored data through the third read operation.

[0098] Preferably, the processor is configured to compare the stored data with the first identification code.

[0099] Preferably, the processor is configured to compare the stored data with the second identification code.

[0100] Preferably, the processor is configured to compare the stored data with the identification information.

[0101] Preferably, it is envisioned that if the stored data does not match the first identification code, the processor is activated to generate an alarm signal.

[0102] Preferably, it is envisioned that if the stored data does not match the second identification code, the processor is activated to generate an alarm signal.

[0103] Preferably, it is envisioned that if the stored data does not match the identification information, the processor is activated to generate an alarm signal.

[0104] Preferably, a third reading device is used.

[0105] Preferably, the third reading operation is envisioned to be performed by the third reading device. Attached Figure Description

[0106] Further features and advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred, but non-limiting, embodiments of the invention. These descriptions are provided herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are also provided by way of non-limiting example, in which:

[0107] Figure 1 A simplified block diagram of a molding station is shown, in which some steps of the method according to the invention are performed;

[0108] Figure 2 A simplified block diagram of a vulcanizing station is shown, in which some steps of the method according to the invention are performed;

[0109] Figure 3 A block diagram of the device according to the present invention is shown;

[0110] Figures 4a-4b A flowchart representing an embodiment of the method according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0111] Referring to the accompanying drawings, 1 generally represents the equipment used to associate the identification information X with the tire 30 being processed.

[0112] Equipment 1 ( Figure 3 This includes a reading system 140 configured to read RFID tags.

[0113] Preferably, the reading system 140 is associated with the forming station 300, which is configured to perform at least one operation to form the tire 30 being processed. Downstream of the forming station 300 is a vulcanizing station 400, which is pre-arranged to perform vulcanizing and molding operations on the tire 30 being processed.

[0114] Molding station 300 Figure 1 The diagram illustrates that vulcanizing station 400 is located in... Figure 2 The diagram is shown schematically.

[0115] Preferably, the reading system 140 includes a first reading device 110.

[0116] Preferably, the first reading device 110 is located at the forming station 300.

[0117] Preferably, the reading system 140 includes a second reading device 120.

[0118] Preferably, the second reading device 120 is located downstream of the molding station 300, and particularly upstream of the vulcanizing station 400.

[0119] In other words, the second reading device 120 is preferably inserted between the molding station 300 and the vulcanizing station 400.

[0120] Device 1 also includes processor 100.

[0121] The processor 100 is configured to cooperate with the reading system 140 to read the identification code of an RFID tag present, for example, at the forming station 300.

[0122] Specifically, the RFID tag 10 is associated with the component 20 before the component 20 is associated with the tire 30 being processed.

[0123] In a different preferred embodiment, the RFID tag 10 is directly associated with the tire 30 being processed when all structural components of the tire have been assembled, or more generally, at any point during its forming process.

[0124] In one embodiment, component 20 is a bead wire 20'.

[0125] During the forming operation, the two bead wires 20' and 20" are associated with the tire 30 being processed, such as Figure 1 As shown schematically. However, only one of the two bead wires (i.e., indicated by reference numeral 20' in the attached diagram) is present. Mark The tire 30 being processed and the resulting finished tire 40 are equipped with an RFID tag 10. This is necessary to limit costs and ensure that the tire being processed and the finished tire 40 are associated with a single identification code.

[0126] In summary, the applicant noted that, preferably, only one component of each tire is equipped with a corresponding RFID tag.

[0127] RFID tag 10 can be associated with component 20 by performing fixed operations, either manually or automatically.

[0128] The RFID tag 10 is preferably a passive type.

[0129] In the memory of the RFID tag 10, the data is preferably structured as shown in Table 1 below:

[0130]

[0131] Table 1

[0132] Preferably, there are four storage areas ("memory banks"), each labeled with a binary address code "00", "10", "01", and "11".

[0133] In the following text, reference will be made to the first storage area TID and the second storage area UII of RFID tag 10.

[0134] Preferably, the first storage area TID is the area marked with binary code "10" in the table above.

[0135] Specifically, the data contained in the first storage area TID is the unique serial number of the RFID tag and cannot be modified or rewritten.

[0136] Preferably, the second storage area UII is the area marked with binary code "01" in the table above.

[0137] Specifically, the data contained in the UII in the second storage area is written by the tag user, in this case, a tire manufacturer, who preferably identifies the object to which the RFID tag is attached. Before the user performs the write operation, the UII in the second storage area typically contains a code without specific meaning, which is set during the production of the RFID tag.

[0138] The data contained in the first storage area TID (Tag ID) is preferably read during the inspection performed by means of the present invention, as will become more apparent below. The data contained in the second storage area UII (Unique Item Identifier) ​​is preferably written to the storage area after the inspection. However, from an operational perspective, it is envisioned that only the second storage area UII is used, and the first storage area TID is read to store its contents for possible future verification.

[0139] The processor 100 is configured to activate the reading system 140, particularly the first reading device 110, in order to perform a first operation of reading the RFID tag 10.

[0140] The first read operation is performed before or during the forming of the tire 30 being processed.

[0141] Specifically, the first reading operation may be performed before the component 20 is associated with the tire 30 being processed, or may be performed on the tire 30 being processed, which has been associated with the RFID tag 10 at any point during the molding process, or may be performed before the RFID tag 10 is associated with the tire 30 being processed or its component.

[0142] The first read operation is performed before the molding operation is completed.

[0143] The first read operation allows the acquisition of the first identification code ID1 of RFID tag 10.

[0144] As mentioned above, this first identification code id1 can be the tag ID contained in the first storage area TID.

[0145] In different embodiments, the first identification code ID1 may be data contained in the second storage area UII.

[0146] The processor 100 stores the first identification code ID1 into the associated memory M.

[0147] The processor 100 is also configured to activate the reading system 140, particularly the second reading device 120, in order to perform a second reading operation.

[0148] The second reading operation is performed at the end of molding and before the tire being processed undergoes 30 vulcanization.

[0149] The second read operation returns the second identifier code ID2.

[0150] The processor 100 then compares the first identification code ID1 with the second identification code ID2.

[0151] If the first identification code ID1 matches the second identification code ID2, in particular if it is the same as the second identification code ID2, the processor 100 activates the RFID tag writing device 200.

[0152] Therefore, a write operation is performed, and the identification information X of the tire 30 being processed is written into the RFID tag 10.

[0153] From a practical standpoint, the comparison between the first identification code ID1 and the second identification code ID2 allows verification that the tire 30 being processed, including or associated with the component 20 equipped with RFID tag 10, is indeed the tire 30 intended to leave the forming station 300. More generally, the comparison between the first identification code ID1 and the second identification code ID2 allows verification that the tire 30 being processed has the RFID tag 10 that was read during the first reading operation (and is therefore assigned to that specific tire 30 being processed). If so, the process is performed correctly, and the identification information X can be written to the RFID tag 10. Otherwise, a problem has arisen, and an alarm will be generated, as will be explained further below.

[0154] Preferably, the RFID tag writing device 200 is located near the second reading device 120. In one embodiment, the RFID tag writing device 200 may be associated with or integrated into the second reading device 120, thereby forming a single RFID reading / writing device together.

[0155] The identification information X preferably includes data representing the manufacturer of the tire 30 being processed and the finished tire 40 from which it will be obtained, data representing the production plant, data representing the tire type, and data representing a progressive number, which allows for the differentiation of all tires of the same type manufactured by the same manufacturer in the same factory.

[0156] Preferably, the identification information X is written into the second storage area UII of the RFID tag 10.

[0157] Preferably, the identification information X is structured according to the SGTIN-96 standard, as shown in Table 2 below:

[0158]

[0159] Table 2

[0160] As can be seen, six fields are provided:

[0161] - The first and second fields are of general nature ("header" and "filter value");

[0162] - The third field (“partition”) identifies how the two subsequent fields are subdivided based on the number of bits;

[0163] - The fourth field (“Company Prefix”) clearly identifies the company, namely the tire manufacturer;

[0164] - The fifth field (“Item Reference”) clearly identifies the product type;

[0165] - The sixth field (“Serial Number”) is a progressive number that clearly identifies the individual product among other products of the same type.

[0166] Preferably, the identification information X is written on the RFID tag 10 according to the ISO DIS 20909, ISO DIS 20910, ISO DIS 20911 and ISO DIS 20912 standards.

[0167] In one embodiment, the identification information X is generated by processor 100—or by another device associated with processor 100 and belonging to the factory management system together with processor 100.

[0168] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that at least a portion of the identification information X can be detected directly from the tire 30 being processed.

[0169] More specifically, in some factories, it is envisioned that an additional code FC, such as a barcode, is attached (e.g., glued) to each tire 30 being processed. With the aid of a suitable detection device 150 (e.g., a barcode reader) included in the device 1, the processor 100 can read the additional code FC and input its data into the identification information X, such that this data will be written to the RFID tag 10.

[0170] This has the advantage of keeping the tire markings on the barcode aligned with the tire markings on the RFID tag.

[0171] As mentioned earlier, when reading the first identification code ID1 from the second storage area UII, the contents of the first storage area TID will also be read and stored—even though it will not be used for comparison with the second identification code ID2. Reading and storing the contents of the first storage area TID may prove useful, for example, for future verification to identify any counterfeit tires.

[0172] In one embodiment, the processor 100 is envisioned to operate by default on the second storage area UII, using its contents to obtain the first identification code ID1 and the second identification code ID2 and perform the necessary comparisons, while also reading and storing the contents of the first storage area TID. Preferably, the processor 100 is configured to verify that among the various different RFID tags read, no two tags have matching, i.e., identical, second storage area UII contents. If a correspondence / consistency is detected, the data cannot be used to distinguish one tire from another; in this case, the processor 100 is configured to perform the aforementioned comparison using the contents of the first storage area TID.

[0173] Advantageously, it is envisioned that the processor 100 can generate an alarm signal AS under at least one of the following conditions:

[0174] - The first read operation is not allowed to obtain the first identifier code ID1;

[0175] - The second read operation is not allowed to obtain the second identifier code ID2;

[0176] - The first identifier code ID1 does not match the second identifier code ID2.

[0177] For example, the first scenario may occur when RFID tag 10 is not associated with component 20 (e.g., due to an error by the device or authorized operator), or when RFID tag 10 is faulty / defective and not working—thus failing to provide the first identification code ID1. The first scenario may also occur when the reading system 140, particularly the first reading device 110, receives two different identification codes, for example, due to an error, both bead wires intended for use in the molding process are provided with RFID tags. Therefore, the processor 100 will not be able to obtain a single identification code, i.e., the first identification code ID1, and will therefore generate an alarm.

[0178] For example, the second situation may occur when the RFID tag 10 malfunctions during manufacturing, or when a tire without an RFID tag is formed due to an error in process management.

[0179] For example, a third situation may occur when the green tires downstream of the forming station 300 and upstream of the vulcanizing station 400 are not properly arranged / disposed of, and therefore the equipment 1 does not find the same tire 30 that was previously formed downstream of the forming station 300.

[0180] Alarm signals (AS) can be, for example, auditory and / or visual alarms, to draw the operator's attention so that the operator can then take action.

[0181] Preferably, the reading system 140 includes a third reading device 130 located downstream of the vulcanizing station 400.

[0182] Advantageously, the processor 100 is configured to activate the reading system 140, particularly the third reading device 130, in order to perform a third reading operation.

[0183] The third read operation allows access to the stored data SD. Preferably, the stored data SD comprises a first part consisting of the identification code of the RFID tag on the finished tire 40, and a second part consisting of data written into the memory of the same RFID tag.

[0184] The processor 100 compares the stored data SD with at least one of the first identification code ID1, the second identification code ID2, and the identification information X.

[0185] Specifically, the first part of the stored data SD is compared with at least one of the first identification code ID1 and the second identification code ID2.

[0186] From a practical point of view, it is preferable to compare with either the first identification code ID1 or the second identification code ID2: at this point in the process, it has been confirmed that the first identification code ID1 is equal to the second identification code ID2, and comparing with both of them may prove to be redundant.

[0187] This comparison makes it possible to verify that the finished tire 40 leaving the vulcanizing station 400 corresponds to the previously formed tire 30.

[0188] The second part of the stored data SD is compared with the identification information X, which is the information previously written into the memory of RFID tag 10.

[0189] This comparison allows verification that the data contained in RFID tag 10 is still stored correctly. In short, it confirms that RFID tag 10 was not damaged during the vulcanization and molding operations.

[0190] If no correspondence is detected between the compared data, the processor 100 will generate an alarm signal AS to report the fault, and preferably to draw the attention of the operator.

[0191] Conversely, if a correspondence is found between the compared data, the processor 100 can generate a simple notification signal indicating that the check has been successful.

[0192] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that only data retrieved from the rewritable memory of an RFID tag mounted on the finished tire 40 is compared with the identification information X.

[0193] In one embodiment, the processor 100 is configured to generate an alarm if, within a given time period of reading the second identification code ID2 or writing identification information X, the same data is not read downstream of the vulcanizing station 400. In other words, if the read acquired by the third reading device 130 does not provide any data corresponding to the second identification code ID2 or identification information X within a predefined time, the processor 100 will signal a fault condition. In fact, this is a situation where the tire 30 being processed, after being molded, has not been brought to the vulcanizing station 400 and subjected to the vulcanization and molding operations as intended.

[0194] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that two or more RFID tags are attached to each tire being processed. Preferably, each of the two or more RFID tags contains the same identification data of the tire being processed in its second storage area (UII). Preferably, in this case, the check performed can consider the presence of two or more RFID tags on the same tire being processed as acceptable, as long as the two or more RFID tags contain the same identification data of the tire being processed.

[0195] Figures 4a-4b A flowchart illustrating operations that can be performed in an embodiment of the method according to the invention is shown.

[0196] In frame 1000, RFID tag 10 is fixed to component 20.

[0197] In frame 1010, component 20 is prepared for use in the molding process, particularly for use in relation to tire 30 being processed.

[0198] In frame 1020, the first reading operation is preferably performed by the first reading device 110.

[0199] In box 1030, a check is performed to see if the first identification code ID1 has been obtained. If the first identification code ID1 has been obtained correctly, the process proceeds to the next box and the forming operation is performed (box 1040). Otherwise, if the first identification code ID1 has not been obtained (i.e., the detection system 140 has not received a response, or has received more than one response and therefore cannot obtain a single first identification code ID1), an alarm signal AS is generated (box 1030').

[0200] Note that in Figure 4a In the flowchart, block 1020, which indicates the first read operation, is shown separate from and before the molding operation (block 1040). However, as described above, in one embodiment, it is envisioned that the first read operation can be performed during the molding operation.

[0201] In frame 1050, at the end of the molding operation, a second reading operation is preferably performed by means of a second detection device 120 to obtain a second identification code ID2.

[0202] In box 1060, a first check is performed to see if the second identification code ID2 is detected. If not detected, an alarm signal is generated (box 1060'). Otherwise, if the second identification code ID2 is correctly detected, the process can proceed to the next box.

[0203] In box 1070, the second identifier code ID2 is compared with the first identifier code ID1.

[0204] If two codes match (i.e., in fact, if two codes are identical), the process can continue to the next box.

[0205] Otherwise, if the two codes do not match (the first identification code ID1 is different from the second identification code ID2), an alarm signal AS (box 1070') is generated.

[0206] In frame 1080, the RFID tag 10 is written. Specifically, the identification information X is written into the memory of the RFID tag 10 by the RFID tag writing device 200.

[0207] At frame 1090, vulcanization and molding of the tire 30 being processed are performed to obtain the finished tire 40.

[0208] At the end of the vulcanization and molding stages, in frame 1100, a third reading operation is preferably performed by a third reading device 130.

[0209] In box 1110, the stored data SD obtained through the third read operation is compared with at least one of the first identification code ID1, the second identification code ID2 and the identification information X to obtain the stored data SD.

[0210] If the comparison yields a positive result, i.e., if there is a correspondence between the compared data, the processor 100 can generate a simple notification signal NS to confirm that the process has been executed correctly (box 1120).

[0211] Conversely, if no correspondence is detected between the stored data SD and at least one of the first identification code ID1, the second identification code ID2, and the identification information X, an alarm signal is generated (box 1110').

[0212] In different preferred embodiments of the invention, boxes 1000 and 1010 may be omitted. In this case, the first reading operation is performed on the RFID tag 10, which has not yet been attached to any component 20 before any component 20 is assembled to the tire 30 being processed.

[0213] It should be noted that, for simplicity, reference has been made to a single processor 100 in the above description. The applicant points out that, within the scope of this invention, it is still possible to employ two or more processors—whether integrated into a single device or distributed across different devices—to perform the described operations. Similarly, the memory M can be implemented as one or more storage devices, suitably associated with the processor(s) in use.

Claims

1. A method for associating identification information with a tire (30) being processed, comprising: Associate the RFID tag (10) with the tire (30) being processed; Before or during the shaping of the tire (30) being processed, a first reading operation is performed on the RFID tag (10) to obtain a first identification code (ID1) from the RFID tag (10); At the end of the molding process and before vulcanizing the tire being treated (30), a second reading operation is performed to obtain a second identification code (ID2); The processor (100) is activated to compare the first identification code (ID1) with the second identification code (ID2); If the first identification code (ID1) matches the second identification code (ID2), the RFID tag writing device (200) is activated to perform a writing operation, thereby writing the identification information (X) of the tire (30) being processed into the RFID tag (10).

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising: Associate another code (FC) with the tire (30) being processed; Read the additional code (FC); The identification information (X) of the tire (30) being processed includes the additional code (FC).

3. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising generating an alarm signal (AS) in at least one of the following situations: The first read operation is not allowed to obtain the first identifier code (ID1); The second read operation is not allowed to obtain the second identifier code (ID2); The first identification code (ID1) does not match the second identification code (ID2).

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first reading operation is performed by the first RFID tag reader (110), and the second reading operation is performed by the second RFID tag reader (120).

5. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The RFID tag (10) is associated with the tire component (20) before the tire component (30) is associated with the tire being processed.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, The first RFID tag reader (110) is located at the forming station (300), which performs at least one operation to form the tire (30) being processed.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the second RFID tag reader (120) is located downstream of the forming station (300).

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, comprising: After the vulcanization of the tire (30) being processed, a third read operation is performed to obtain the stored data (SD); The processor (100) is activated to compare the stored data (SD) with at least one of the first identification code (ID1), the second identification code (ID2), and the identification information (X); An alarm signal (AS) is generated if the stored data (SD) does not match at least one of the first identification code (ID1), the second identification code (ID2), and the identification information (X).

9. An apparatus for associating identification information with a tire (30) being processed, comprising: A reading system (140) configured to read RFID tags; Processor (100), the processor being configured to: - Activate the reading system (140) to perform a first reading operation on the RFID tag (10) before or during the shaping of the tire (30) being processed, so as to obtain a first identification code (ID1) from the RFID tag (10); - Activate the reading system (140) to perform a second reading operation at the end of the molding process and before vulcanizing the tire being treated (30) in order to obtain a second identification code (ID2); - Compare the first identification code (ID1) with the second identification code (ID2); - If the first identification code (ID1) matches the second identification code (ID2), the RFID tag writing device (200) is activated to perform a writing operation, thereby writing the identification information (X) of the tire (30) being processed onto the RFID tag (10).

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein the reading system (140) includes a first RFID tag reading device (110) and a second RFID tag reading device (120).

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the first reading operation is performed by the first RFID tag reading device (110), and the second reading operation is performed by the second RFID tag reading device (120).

12. The device according to any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein, The first RFID tag reader (110) is located at the forming station (300).

13. The device according to any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the second RFID tag reader (120) is located downstream of the forming station (300).

14. The device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, comprising a detection device (150) configured to detect additional codes (FC) associated with the tire (30) being processed.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the processor (100) is configured to: - Activate the detection device (150) to detect the additional code (FC); - The additional code (FC) is supplied to the RFID tag writing device (200) so that the additional code (FC) is included in the identification information (X).

16. The device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the processor (100) is configured to generate an alarm signal (AS) in at least one of the following situations: The first read operation is not allowed to obtain the first identifier code (ID1); The second read operation is not allowed to obtain the second identifier code (ID2); The first identification code (ID1) does not match the second identification code (ID2).

17. The device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the processor (100) is configured to: The reading system (140) is activated to perform a third reading operation after the tire (30) being processed has been vulcanized, in order to obtain the stored data (SD); The stored data (SD) is compared with at least one of the first identification code (ID1), the second identification code (ID2), and the identification information (X); An alarm signal (AS) is generated if the stored data (SD) does not match at least one of the first identification code (ID1), the second identification code (ID2), and the identification information (X).

18. The device according to claim 17, wherein the reading system (140) includes a third reading device (130), and the third reading operation is performed by the third reading device (130).

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