Tire Changing Equipment

Abstract

The present invention relates to a tire changing device, comprising: a wheel holder unit, which is configured to receive and lock a wheel in an operating position and to set the wheel to rotate around a rotation axis; a plurality of tools, which are configured to interact with the tire to install and / or remove the tire; a hydraulic circuit including a pump; a plurality of hydraulic actuators, which are connected to the hydraulic circuit; the hydraulic circuit is configured to synchronously drive actuators of the plurality of actuators.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for mounting and removing tyres. The invention also relates to a method for removing a tyre from the rim of a corresponding wheel. Background Art

[0002] Typically, in devices for mounting and removing tires (also called tire changing machines or devices), a wheel is received and locked on a wheel holder unit; an example of a wheel holder unit is described in patent document EP 2 599 649 B1. The tire is removed and / or mounted by rotating the wheel and simultaneously interacting with a tool mounted on a tool column, an example of which is provided in patent document EP 2 629 992 B1.

[0003] In the field of tire changing machines, devices are known in which multiple tools - for example, tire changer tools - operate simultaneously on the same tire bead; examples of such devices are described in patent documents MO2009A000280 and US2815803A1; however, in the documents of the prior art, the tools operating simultaneously on the same tire bead are driven by the same actuator; this limits the force that the tools can apply to the bead.

[0004] Devices are also known in which a plurality of tools are driven by a plurality of different actuators connected to the same hydraulic circuit; the hydraulic circuit may also control an actuator connected to a wheel retainer unit; examples of such devices are described in patent documents US8770254B1, US9073394B1, US8783326B1 and US8613303B1. In these devices, the problem is how to drive the actuators efficiently so as to optimize the installation and / or removal. More specifically, it is necessary to distribute the forces equally between all the actuators so that the forces exerted on the wheel by the tools connected to the actuators are equally distributed from one tool to another. It is also necessary to precisely position the tools connected to the actuators so that they contact the wheel simultaneously.

[0005] Another tire changing machine is disclosed in patent documents WO 2009 / 061277 A1 and CN 108340990 A. Summary of the invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for mounting and demounting a tyre relative to a rim of a vehicle wheel and a demounting method which overcome at least one of the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art.

[0007] The above objects are fully achieved by the device and method of the present disclosure as characterized in the appended claims.

[0008] According to one aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure relates to a device for mounting and / or removing a tire relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel. More specifically, the wheel may be a racing wheel with a diameter of 18 inches; the width of the wheel may be, for example, less than or equal to 14 inches. The device comprises a wheel holder unit configured to receive and lock the wheel in an operating position and to set the wheel to rotate around a rotation axis. The device comprises a plurality of tools configured to interact with the tire to mount and / or remove the tire.

[0009] The device comprises a hydraulic (or electrohydraulic) circuit. The hydraulic circuit is filled with a fluid. The fluid is preferably a liquid, more preferably an oil. The hydraulic circuit comprises a pump. The device comprises a plurality of actuators. Preferably, the actuators are hydraulically driven: that is, they are hydraulic actuators; the actuators are connected to the hydraulic circuit. Each actuator of the plurality of actuators defines an internal space and comprises a piston that can slide within the internal space; the piston divides the internal space into an open chamber and a closed chamber. An "open chamber" refers to a chamber that causes the piston rod to move out when filled with a fluid (oil).

[0010] The hydraulic circuit is configured to synchronously drive actuators of the plurality of actuators.

[0011] It should be noted that the synchronously driven actuators may be connected to respective ones of a plurality of tools and / or other components of the apparatus, such as a wheel holder unit.

[0012] More specifically, the plurality of actuators include a first actuator and a second actuator. Preferably, the first actuator and the second actuator (and any other actuators in the plurality of actuators) each include a respective cylinder defining an interior space. For each of the first actuator and the second actuator (and any other actuators in the plurality of actuators), the piston includes a rod and a plunger.

[0013] In one embodiment, the actuators of a plurality of actuators are connected in series with each other in a master-slave configuration. The open chamber of the first actuator is operably connected to a pump to receive fluid from the pump, and the open chamber of the second actuator is operably connected to the closed chamber of the first actuator to receive fluid from the first actuator. Thus, the first actuator acts as a "master" actuator, while the second actuator acts as a "slave" actuator. In practice, the first actuator ("master") is operably connected to receive fluid from the pump, while the second actuator ("slave") is operably connected to receive fluid from the first actuator, and so on for any additional "slave" actuators that receive oil from the second actuator in cascade. More specifically, the hydraulic circuit includes a connecting branch that interconnects the second chamber of the first actuator with the first chamber of the second actuator.

[0014] In this embodiment, the diameter of the barrel of the first actuator is preferably greater than the diameter of the barrel of the second actuator. The cross-section of the rod of the first actuator (or the diameter if it is cylindrical) is greater than the cross-section of the rod of the second actuator. It should be noted that the actuator may include a chamber that is not cylindrical in shape (for example, it can be a parallelepiped). In either case, the cross-section of the chamber of the first actuator is greater than the cross-section of the chamber of the second actuator. This feature is useful because the rod is preferably positioned in a closed chamber; since the rod occupies a portion of the space of the closed chamber of the first actuator, the amount of fluid (usually oil) that flows from the closed chamber of the first actuator to the open chamber of the second actuator is less than the amount that would enter a chamber having the size of the closed chamber of the first actuator without the rod therein; therefore, the cross-section of the barrel of the second actuator is smaller than the cross-section of the barrel of the first actuator to compensate for the fact that a portion of the closed chamber of the first actuator is occupied by the rod.

[0015] In another embodiment, the actuators of the plurality of actuators are connected in parallel to each other. More specifically, the pump delivery portion is connected to the open chamber of the actuator of the plurality of actuators, and the pump return portion is connected to the closed chamber of the actuator of the plurality of actuators. In this embodiment, the device preferably also includes a flow diverter between the delivery portion of the pump and the open chamber of the actuator of the plurality of actuators. In one embodiment, the flow diverter includes a plurality of mechanically interconnected positive displacement gear pumps; each positive displacement gear pump having a first port connected to the (central) pump of the hydraulic circuit and a second port connected to the open chamber of the corresponding actuator of the plurality of actuators. The flow diverter can be operated in a first configuration and a second configuration, in which the first port of each positive displacement pump is used as an inlet port and the second port is used as a delivery port to deliver fluid from the pump assembly to the actuator, and in the second configuration, the first port of each positive displacement pump is used as a delivery port and the second port is used as an inlet port to return fluid from the actuator to the tank to which the pump assembly is connected. The flow splitting device includes or defines a pressure compensator to maintain the same pressure in the cylinders of the actuators of the plurality of actuators regardless of the resistive loads thereon.

[0016] In one embodiment, the hydraulic circuit includes a re-phasing or realignment system. The re-phasing system is configured to automatically realign actuators among a plurality of actuators. In practice, oil leakage may cause the actuators to be out of phase, so that the actuator pistons no longer move simultaneously, in phase, or aligned with each other. The re-phasing system includes an electronic card and one or more electric valves controlled by the electronic card. The one or more electric valves are located in corresponding one or more realignment branches of the hydraulic circuit. The one or more electric valves are configured to limit (or eliminate) fluid leakage.

[0017] The electronic card is programmed to open one or more electric valves in response to a predetermined event to establish (additional) fluid communication between the actuators of the plurality of actuators. More specifically, opening the electric valves establishes fluid communication between the open chambers of the actuators. It should be noted that the one or more electric valves are preferably double-sealed electric valves to prevent oil leakage when the electric valves are closed.

[0018] More specifically, in each of the plurality of actuators, the piston can slide in the internal space between the top dead center (or the first dead center) and the bottom dead center (or the second dead center). At the top dead center, the open chamber has its maximum size and the closed chamber has its minimum size. At the bottom dead center, the open chamber has its minimum size and the closed chamber has its maximum size. The re-phasing system includes a sensor (or at least one sensor) associated with the plurality of actuators (or at least one actuator); the sensor is configured to send a position signal indicating the position of the piston at a predetermined position to an electronic card, and the electronic card is configured to open the one or more electric valves in response to receiving the position signal from the sensor. More specifically, the sensor is configured to send a position signal to the electronic card in response to detecting the piston at the bottom dead center or at a predetermined distance from the bottom dead center. The predetermined distance may be between 1 cm and 3 cm (e.g., 2 cm).

[0019] Preferably, the electronic card comprises a timer configured to count a predetermined length of time. The predetermined length of time is preferably at least 2 seconds (e.g., 3 seconds). The control unit is configured to reclose the one or more electric valves when the predetermined length of time has elapsed. Therefore, the control unit is configured to open the one or more electric valves in response to the position signal and keep them open for a predetermined length of time to allow the actuator to be realigned. Thereafter, during the movement of the actuator piston, the electric valve will be closed. It should also be noted that the electric valve is also open during the initial stage of filling the circuit with a fluid (e.g., oil).

[0020] In an embodiment in which the actuators are connected in series, the re-phasing system comprises a plurality of electric valves (and therefore a plurality of realignment branches), the number of which is preferably equal to the number of actuators in the plurality of actuators. In this case, for each electric valve, the re-phasing circuit preferably also comprises a calibrated throttle valve; preferably, the calibrated throttle valve is located in the corresponding realignment branch in which the electric valve is arranged. The realignment branches interconnect the branches of the hydraulic circuit with each other, and each branch connects the corresponding actuator to the distributor (or diverter). It should be noted that at least one realignment branch interconnects the open chambers of a pair of actuators in the plurality of actuators. More specifically, between the open chamber of the first actuator and the open chamber of the second actuator, there is a first realignment branch, on which the electric valve and preferably the calibrated throttle valve are connected; between the open chamber of the second actuator and the open chamber of the third actuator, if any, there is a second realignment branch, on which the electric valve and preferably the calibrated throttle valve are connected; in the case of three actuators, there is also a third realignment branch, on which the electric valve and the calibrated throttle valve are connected, which interconnects the open chamber of the third actuator and the closed chamber of the third actuator. Thus, in general, each realignment branch except the last one interconnects the open chambers of a pair of consecutive actuators, and the last one interconnects the open chamber and the closed chamber of the same (last) actuator.

[0021] In the embodiment where the actuators are connected in parallel, the rephasing circuit comprises a number of electric valves (and therefore a number of realignment branches) which is one less than the number of actuators. Preferably, each electric valve is located in a respective realignment branch connecting an open chamber of a pair of hydraulic actuators. Generally, each electric valve is located in a realignment branch interconnecting a pair of branches connecting a flow divider with a respective cylinder.

[0022] In one embodiment, the plurality of tools includes a plurality of lower tire removers (or tire removers).

[0023] In one example, a tire picker of a plurality of tire pickers is configured to clamp the same tire bead simultaneously. In one example, a tire picker of a plurality of tire pickers is configured to clamp the bottom tire bead simultaneously and be oriented toward the same side of the wheel (the wheel has a first side and a second side opposite to each other). In one example, a tire picker of a plurality of tire pickers can be translationally moved along a corresponding (translation) axis arranged parallel to the axis of the wheel holder unit; the movement is a movement toward or away from the wheel. The movement of the tire picker is synchronized (towards or away from the wheel: i.e., away from the lower sidewall of the tire). In one example, the tire picker can also be moved radially relative to the rotation axis of the wheel holder unit and laterally relative to the corresponding translation axis; in radial movement, the tire picker is also synchronized when it moves toward or away from the axis of the wheel holder unit. The radial movement can be determined by a cam or other mechanism or by an additional actuator.

[0024] The lower tire remover can be moved between a rest position and a working position by the action of a plurality of actuators, in which the lower tire remover is away from the tire of the wheel positioned in the operating position, and in the working position, the lower tire remover interacts with the (single) sidewall (lower sidewall) of the tire of the wheel. It should be noted that the term "lower sidewall" refers to a wheel positioned with its axis oriented vertically, so that one sidewall is at a height lower than the other sidewall and is therefore referred to as a "lower" sidewall. If the wheel is positioned with its axis oriented horizontally, the term "lower sidewall" in the present disclosure may be replaced by the term "first sidewall" or "second sidewall". In the working position, a tire remover of the plurality of lower tire removers is at a first vertical height, and in the rest position, a tire remover of the plurality of lower tire removers is at a second vertical height lower than the first vertical height. Each actuator of the plurality of actuators is associated with a tire remover of the plurality of (lower) tire removers for moving between a rest position and a working position. More specifically, the device comprises a plurality of arms supporting a plurality of tire removers; each of the plurality of arms is movable in a vertical direction parallel to gravity so as to move a tire remover of the plurality of tire removers between a working position and a rest position. The arms are movable by the action of an actuator of the plurality of actuators; the arms are thus movable synchronously with each other.

[0025] Preferably, the tyre removers of the plurality of lower tyre removers are arranged around the wheel holder unit; more particularly, they are angularly equispaced from each other.

[0026] In one embodiment, the rotation axis of the wheel holder unit is parallel to gravity. The wheel holder unit comprises a rotating rod rotating around the rotation axis; more specifically, the rotating rod has a hole at its top; the wheel holder unit comprises a locking device configured to interact with the wheel holder rod and be removably fixed to the wheel holder rod so as to lock the wheel in an operating position. More specifically, the locking device has a lower end and an upper end, wherein the hole at the top of the rotating rod is adapted to receive the lower end of the locking device to lock the rim in a position between the top of the rod and the upper end of the locking device.

[0027] In one embodiment, the wheel holder unit further comprises a plurality of turntables which are arranged around the rotating rod, preferably equidistant from the axis of rotation, and which rotate together with the rotating rod around the axis of rotation. A turntable of the plurality of turntables has a corresponding lateral surface configured to abut a cylindrical portion of the surface of the rim. In this way, the turntable can be used as a guide for positioning the wheel and as a mechanical stop when there is a risk of the rim moving out of alignment due to a large force applied to the wheel. In one embodiment, a turntable of the plurality of turntables has a corresponding upper end configured to abut a corresponding rim portion positioned around the central hole of the rim. The turntable is in the form of a cylinder, preferably made of plastic. The turntable can be moved radially relative to the axis of rotation between a plurality of operating positions. Preferably, the turntable can be moved in a coordinated manner relative to each other between a plurality of operating positions; so that they remain equidistant from each other.

[0028] In one embodiment, the wheel holder unit comprises a plate oriented perpendicular to the rotation axis and connected to the rotation shaft for rotation about the rotation axis; the rotation shaft and a plurality of turntables are supported by the plate: i.e. they extend from the plate. The plate comprises a surface configured to supportably receive a wheel. Thus, in the operating position, one side wall of the rim rests on the plate and the cylindrical portion of the rim surrounds the turntable; preferably, the turntable engages the cylindrical portion of the rim of the wheel; thus, the turntable performs the function of centering and stabilizing the wheel.

[0029] By the action of the aforementioned actuator, the lower tire remover can be moved between a rest position, in which the lower tire remover is located at a vertical height below the plate, and an operating position, in which the lower tire remover is located at a vertical height above the plate.

[0030] In one embodiment, on the other hand, the axis of rotation is oriented perpendicular to gravity. In this embodiment, preferably, the tire changing machine is a heavy-duty tire changing machine. In this embodiment, the first actuator can be associated with the wheel holder unit to move the wheel holder unit along the axis of rotation; the second actuator can be associated with a tool of a plurality of tools (or with a tool holder assembly) to move the tool toward and away from the wheel holder unit (specifically, along a horizontal direction parallel to the axis of rotation or perpendicular to the horizontal direction). The first actuator and the second actuator can both be associated with the wheel holder unit: for example, to move it along the axis of rotation and (simultaneously) lift it in a vertical direction. Both the first actuator and the second actuator can also be associated with the tool holder assembly (or with the tool): for example, to move toward and away from the wheel holder unit along a first direction and a second direction (simultaneously).

[0031] In one embodiment, the device comprises a tool holder column; preferably, the tool holder column is oriented parallel to gravity. The device comprises a working unit, which is slidably coupled to the column to move along a lifting axis parallel to gravity (i.e., parallel to the tool holder column) and rotate around the tool holder column. More specifically, the device (or working unit) comprises a rotating sleeve, which is rotatably coupled to the tool holder column to rotate around it around the lifting axis; preferably, the rotation of the sleeve is limited to a predetermined angle around the column (e.g., 120°). The working unit is slidably coupled to the outer surface of the sleeve to move translationally relative to the sleeve along the lifting axis. The device comprises a lifting actuator, which is configured to move the working unit relative to the sleeve along the lifting axis, the lifting actuator is preferably a hydraulic actuator. Preferably, the device comprises a control unit, which is connected to the lifting actuator and is configured to command the lifting actuator to move the working unit along the lifting axis. On the other hand, the movement of the sleeve around the column can be performed manually. The device (or control unit) may include a selector switch configured to select the position (i.e., vertical height) of the working unit from a plurality of predetermined positions. More specifically, the selector switch may select the position according to the width of the wheel (i.e., the width of the tire).

[0032] The apparatus comprises a first tool holder assembly and a second tool holder assembly, which are connected to the working unit and extend away from the tool holder column in respective angularly spaced directions. More specifically, the first tool holder assembly and the second tool holder assembly are connected to a rotating sleeve. Thus, the rotating sleeve (i.e., the working unit) allows the selection of the first tool holder assembly or, alternatively, the second tool holder assembly. More specifically, the first tool holder assembly supports an installation tool and a removal tool vertically spaced apart from each other; more specifically, the removal tool is at a height above the installation tool; therefore, the removal tool is configured to interact with the upper sidewall of the tire, while the installation tool is configured to interact with the lower sidewall of the tire. The second tool holder assembly supports a pair of tire removers vertically spaced apart from each other.

[0033] The present disclosure also provides a method for removing and / or installing a tire. The method includes the steps of receiving and locking a wheel to a wheel holder unit. The wheel holder unit is manufactured according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The method includes the steps of rotating the wheel around a rotation axis by rotating the wheel holder unit. The method includes the steps of moving a plurality of tools, wherein one or more of the plurality of tools interact with the tire to remove and / or install the tire.

[0034] Preferably, the method comprises the step of synchronously driving the plurality of hydraulic actuators by means of a hydraulic circuit comprising a pump and connected to actuators of the plurality of actuators.

[0035] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of automatically realigning actuators of the plurality of actuators. The step of automatically realigning includes opening one or more electric valves located in corresponding one or more realignment branches of the hydraulic circuit to establish fluid communication between the actuators of the plurality of actuators (specifically, between corresponding open chambers). The electric valves and the realignment branches are manufactured according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0036] The plurality of actuators include a first actuator and a second actuator; the first actuator and the second actuator each define an internal space and include a piston that can slide in the internal space; the piston divides the internal space into an open chamber and a second closed chamber. The step of driving the first actuator and the second actuator includes the following steps: supplying a pressurized fluid from a pump to the open chamber of the first actuator; by the action of the pressurized fluid in the open chamber of the first actuator, the piston of the first actuator moves and pressurizes the fluid in the closed chamber of the first actuator; and the pressurized fluid flows from the closed chamber of the first actuator to the open chamber of the second actuator through a connecting branch interconnecting the closed chamber of the first actuator with the open chamber of the second actuator. Therefore, the method includes the step of moving the piston of the second actuator and pressurizing the fluid in the closed chamber of the second actuator. If a third actuator is provided, the method further comprises the step of causing a pressurized fluid to flow from a closed chamber of the second actuator to an open chamber of the third actuator through a connecting branch interconnecting the closed chamber of the second actuator with an open chamber of the third actuator; thus, the method comprises the step of causing a piston of the third actuator to move and pressurize the fluid in the closed chamber of the third actuator.

[0037] In one embodiment, moving the piston results in movement of an arm connected to a corresponding lower tire remover tool, which moves from a rest position to an operating position as a result of the movement of the piston.

[0038] In another embodiment, moving the piston results in movement of a wheel retainer unit (or chuck) connected to an actuator and movement of one or more tools connected to one or more actuators. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] These and other characteristics will become more apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 An apparatus for mounting and removing tires according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is shown in a first operational configuration;

[0041] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The second operational configuration is shown Figure 1 equipment;

[0042] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 Details of the equipment;

[0043] Figure 6 The embodiment in which the actuators are connected in series is shown. Figure 1 The hydraulic circuit of the equipment;

[0044] Figure 7 Shows the supply Figure 6 (or Figure 8 ) of a hydraulic circuit;

[0045] Figure 8 In the embodiment where the actuators are connected in parallel, Figure 1 The hydraulic circuit of the equipment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] With reference to the drawings, reference numeral 1 denotes an apparatus for mounting and demounting tyres.

[0047] The device 1 includes a wheel holder unit 2. The wheel holder unit 2 is configured to set the wheel to rotate around a rotation axis A1 (parallel to gravity). The wheel holder unit 2 includes a rotating rod 21 that rotates around the rotation axis A1. The wheel holder unit 2 includes a plate 27, from which the rotating rod 21 extends, and the plate 27 also rotates around the rotation axis A1 together with the rod. The wheel holder unit 2 also includes a first turntable 22, a second turntable 23, a third turntable 24 and a fourth turntable 25, all of which are fixed to the plate 27 and also rotate around the rotation axis A1 together with the plate 27. The turntables 22, 23, 24 and 25 extend from the plate 27 and are arranged around the rotating rod 21. The wheel holder unit 2 also includes a locking device 26, which is removably fixed to the rotating rod 21 to lock the wheel between the plate 27 and the locking device 26. More specifically, the rotating rod 21 has a hole at its top for receiving the locking device 26.

[0048] The device 1 comprises a plurality of tools. More specifically, the device 1 comprises a first lower tire remover tool 31, a second lower tire remover tool 32 and a third lower tire remover tool 33 arranged around the wheel holder unit 2 and angularly spaced 120° from each other. The first lower tire remover tool 31, the second lower tire remover tool 32 and the third lower tire remover tool 33 are movable between a stationary position and a working position in respective directions parallel to the rotation axis A1, in which they are at a greater vertical height in the working position than in the stationary position. The first lower tire remover tool 31, the second lower tire remover tool 32 and the third lower tire remover tool 33 are shaped as contoured discs whose respective rotation axes are inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the rotation axis A1; the predetermined angle is preferably the same for all three tire remover tools 31, 32, 33. In the accompanying drawings, the first tire remover tool 31, the second tire remover tool 32 and the third tire remover tool 33 are shown in respective stationary positions. The fact that there are three tire remover tools 31, 32, 33 configured to operate simultaneously on the tire allows the force applied to the tire to be distributed over the entire circumference of the bead. This prevents the rim and / or tire of the wheel from being damaged by excessive forces concentrated on a single tool.

[0049] The apparatus 1 comprises a tool holder column 4. The tool holder column 4 extends along a lifting axis A2 parallel to the rotation axis A1. The apparatus 1 comprises a working unit 41 associated with the tool holder column 4, the working unit 41 being slidable along the lifting axis A2 and rotatable about the lifting axis A2. The apparatus 1 comprises a first tool holder assembly 42 and a second tool holder assembly 43 mounted on the working unit 41. The first tool holder assembly 42 and the second tool holder assembly 43 extend away from the tool holder column along respective angularly spaced directions.

[0050] The apparatus 1 comprises an upper tyre remover tool 36 mounted on a first tool holder assembly 42. The upper tyre remover tool 36 is in the form of a forming disc having a non-vertically inclined axis of rotation.

[0051] In the exemplary embodiment, the device 1 also includes a lower operating head (or tool) 37. The lower operating head 37 is mounted on the first tool holder assembly 42 at a height below the upper tire remover tool 36. In practice, the upper tire remover tool 36 is configured to interact with the upper sidewall of the tire, and the lower operating head 37 is configured to interact with the lower sidewall of the tire. The lower operating head 37 includes one or more features of the lower operating head described in patent document EP2965927B1 in the name of the present applicant. It should be clearly understood that all features of the lower operating head described in patent document EP2965927B1 are also applicable to the lower operating head 37 according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the lower operating head 37 includes an additional lower tire remover tool (in the form of a forming disc whose axis is non-vertically inclined relative to the rotation axis A1); the additional tire remover tool is configured to operate on the lower bead of the tire. The lower operating head 37 also includes a lower installation tool having an elongated shape so that it can be operably inserted between the lower bead of the tire and the upper edge of the rim, and the lower installation tool is angularly spaced from the additional lower tire remover tool by a predetermined angle. The lower operating head 37 can rotate about a corresponding rotation axis so that the additional lower tire remover tool and the lower installation tool can be selectively and alternatively positioned in an operating configuration in which they are directed toward the wheel by rotation of the lower operating head (relative to the first tool holder assembly 42). The lower operating head 37 is spaced from the upper tire remover tool 36.

[0052] As a supplement (or alternative) to the lower operating head (or tool) 37, the apparatus 1 further comprises a lower installation tool 35. The lower installation tool 35 is spaced apart from the removal tool 34.

[0053] The device 1 includes an operating head 34 for assisting disassembly. The operating head 34 for assisting disassembly is mounted on the second tool holder assembly 43. The operating head 34 for assisting disassembly includes a first portion having a first end connected to the second tool holder assembly 43 and a second end opposite to the first end; the first portion extends in a first direction; the operating head 34 for assisting disassembly includes a second portion extending in a second direction different from the first direction; the second portion has a first end connected to the second end of the first portion; the operating head 34 for assisting disassembly includes a wheel rotatably connected to the second end of the second portion opposite to the first end. The operating head 34 for assisting disassembly manufactured in this manner can be used as a support point for disassembly.

[0054] It should be noted that, in one embodiment, the operating head 34 for assisting disassembly can be replaced by the operating head described in patent document EP3069905B1 under the name of the applicant. It should be clearly understood that all features of the operating head of patent document EP3069905B1 are also applicable to this embodiment of the operating head according to the present disclosure.

[0055] The device 1 comprises a hydraulic circuit 6. The device 1 comprises a plurality of hydraulic actuators 61, 62, 63; more specifically, the device 1 comprises a first hydraulic actuator 61, a second hydraulic actuator 62 and a third hydraulic actuator 63. The hydraulic circuit 6 is configured to control the hydraulic actuators 61, 62, 63.

[0056] The hydraulic circuit 6 includes a pump assembly 9, which includes a motor and a positive displacement gear pump. The hydraulic circuit 6 also includes a hydraulic tank 97 connected to the pump assembly 9; preferably, a filter is provided between the hydraulic tank 97 and the pump assembly. More specifically, the inlet side of the pump assembly 9 is connected to the hydraulic tank 97, and the delivery side is connected to the forward flow branch 91 of the hydraulic circuit 6. In addition to the forward flow branch 91, the hydraulic circuit 6 also includes a return branch 92, which is connected to the hydraulic tank 97 to deliver the fluid (or oil) returned from the circuit to the hydraulic tank 97. Preferably, the hydraulic circuit 6 also includes an electric valve 95 configured to put the forward flow branch 91 and the return branch 92 in communication; more specifically, the electric valve 95 is positioned in a branch connected at one end to the forward flow branch 91 between the pump assembly 9 and the distributor 60 and connected at the opposite end to the return branch 92 between the distributor 60 and the tank 97. The electric valve 95 is configured to open when the pressure at a certain point in the circuit reaches a maximum value. This prevents the pump 9 from being damaged if it operates while the oil circuit is blocked (or open).

[0057] The hydraulic circuit 6 further comprises a distributor 60; preferably, the distributor 60 comprises a 4 / 3-way type closed center drawer valve. The distributor 60 is connected to a forward flow branch 91 between the pump assembly 9 and the actuators 61, 62, 63; furthermore, the distributor 60 is connected to a return branch 62 between the actuators 61, 62, 63 and the pump assembly 9. Preferably, the hydraulic circuit further comprises a cross check valve 79, which is connected to the forward flow branch 91 between the distributor 60 and the actuators 61, 62, 63 and to the return branch 92 between the actuators 61, 62, 63 and the distributor 60. The cross check valve 79 ensures that there is no oil leakage at start-up that would cause small undesired movements of the pistons.

[0058] The first actuator 61 includes a cylinder 61A and a piston including a rod 61B and a plunger 61C. The cylinder 61A defines the internal space of the first actuator 61. The piston, in particular the plunger 61C, divides the internal space into an open chamber and a closed chamber. Similarly, the second actuator 62 includes a cylinder 62A and a piston including a rod 62B and a plunger 62C. The cylinder 62A defines the internal space of the second actuator 62. The piston, in particular the plunger 62C, divides the internal space into an open chamber and a closed chamber. The third actuator 63 includes a cylinder 63A and a piston including a rod 63B and a plunger 63C. The cylinder 63A defines the internal space of the third actuator 63. The piston, in particular the plunger 63C, divides the internal space into an open chamber and a closed chamber.

[0059] In one embodiment, the actuators 61, 62, and 63 are connected in series with each other in a "master-slave" configuration. In this embodiment, the first actuator 61 is directly driven by the pump assembly 9, the second actuator 62 is driven by the first actuator 61, and the third actuator 63 is driven by the second actuator 62. Therefore, the first actuator 61 acts as a "master" actuator, while the second actuator 62 and the third actuator 63 act as "slaves".

[0060] The open chamber 61A of the first actuator receives fluid (oil) from the pump assembly 9 through the forward flow branch 91. The flow of fluid into the open chamber of the first actuator 61 moves the piston upward (see the figure) and pressurizes the fluid in the closed chamber of the first actuator 61. The closed chamber of the first actuator 61 is connected to the open chamber of the second actuator 62 through the first connecting branch 64; therefore, pressurizing the fluid in the closed chamber of the first actuator 61 causes the pressurized fluid to flow from the closed chamber of the first actuator 61 to the open chamber of the second actuator 62. The flow of fluid into the open chamber of the second actuator 62 moves the piston upward (see the figure) and pressurizes the fluid in the closed chamber of the second actuator 62. The closed chamber of the second actuator 62 is connected to the open chamber of the third actuator 63 via the second connecting branch 65; therefore, pressurizing the fluid in the closed chamber of the second actuator 62 causes the pressurized fluid to flow from the closed chamber of the second actuator 62 to the open chamber of the third actuator 63. The flow of fluid into the open chamber of the third actuator 63 moves the piston upward (see the figure) and pressurizes the fluid in the closed chamber of the third actuator 63. The closed chamber of the third actuator 63 is connected to the return branch 92; therefore, the fluid flowing out of the closed chamber of the third actuator 63 returns to the pump assembly 9.

[0061] It should be noted that the rod 61B is located in the closed chamber of the first actuator 61. Similarly, the rod 62B is located in the closed chamber of the second actuator 62. The rod 63B is located in the closed chamber of the third actuator 63. Therefore, in order for the fluid in the closed chamber of the first actuator 61 to effectively pressurize the open chamber of the second actuator 62, the diameter of the cylinder 61A of the first actuator 61 is greater than the diameter of the cylinder 62A of the second actuator 62. Similarly, in order for the fluid in the closed chamber of the second actuator 62 to effectively pressurize the open chamber of the third actuator 63, the diameter of the cylinder 62A of the second actuator 62 is greater than the diameter of the cylinder 63A of the third actuator 63. For example, the diameter of the cylinder 61A may be between 40 cm and 50 cm, the diameter of the cylinder 62A may be between 35 cm and 45 cm, and the diameter of the cylinder 63A may be between 20 cm and 30 cm. Furthermore, for reasons of proportion, the diameter of the rod 61B of the first actuator 61 may be greater than the diameter of the rod 62B of the second actuator; the diameter of the rod 62B of the second actuator 62 may be greater than or equal to the diameter of the rod 63B of the third actuator 63. For example, the diameter of the rod 61B of the first actuator 61 may be approximately 22 cm, and the diameters of the rods 62B and 63B may be approximately 20 cm.

[0062] The hydraulic circuit 6 also includes a re-phasing (or realignment) system, which is configured to keep the actuators 61, 62, 63 aligned with each other, i.e., in phase with each other. The re-phasing circuit includes a first realignment (or realignment) branch 76, a second realignment (or realignment) branch 77, and a third realignment (or realignment) branch 78. The first realignment branch 76 interconnects the forward flow branch 91 downstream of the distributor 60 and upstream of the first actuator 61 with a first node, which is in communication with the open chamber of the second cylinder 62 (and the first connecting branch 64) and the second realignment branch 77. The second realignment branch 77 interconnects the first node and the second node, the first node is in communication with the open chamber of the second cylinder 62 (and the first connecting branch 64) and the first realignment branch 76, and the second node is in communication with the open chamber of the third actuator 63 (and the second connecting branch 65) and the third realignment branch 78. The third realignment branch 78 is interconnected with a second node communicating with the open chamber of the third actuator 63 (and the second connecting branch 65 ) and the second realignment branch 77 , and with the return branch 92 downstream of the third actuator 63 and upstream of the distributor 60 .

[0063] The hydraulic circuit 6 includes a first solenoid valve 66 located in a first realignment branch 76. The hydraulic circuit 6 also includes a first calibrated throttle valve 69 located in the first realignment branch 76 between the first solenoid valve 66 and a node connected to a second realignment branch 77 and an open chamber of the second actuator 62. The hydraulic circuit 6 includes a second electric valve 67 located in the second realignment branch 77. The hydraulic circuit 6 also includes a second calibrated throttle valve 70 located in the second realignment branch 77 between the second electric valve 67 and a node connected to a third realignment branch 78 and an open chamber of the third actuator 64. The hydraulic circuit 6 includes a third solenoid valve 68 located in the third realignment branch 78. The hydraulic circuit 6 also includes a third calibrated throttle valve 71 located in the third realignment branch 78 between the third solenoid valve 68 and a node connected to the return branch 92. The device 1 comprises a control unit configured to open the first electric valve 66, the second electric valve 67 and the third electric valve 68 simultaneously; preferably, the control unit commands the first electric valve 66, the second electric valve 67 and the third electric valve 68 to open each time the piston of the actuator 61, 62, 63 reaches the bottom dead center: that is, when the plunger 61C, 62C, 63C is at its minimum height and the open chamber is at its minimum volume. In fact, it should be noted that the piston of the actuator 61, 62, 63 moves vertically, the plunger 61C, 62C, 63C is oriented horizontally, and the open chamber is positioned below the closed chamber. When the valves 66, 67, 68 are open, the actuators 61, 62, 63 are connected in parallel (for a limited time length, that is, for the aforementioned predetermined time length): in fact, the fluid flows through the realignment branches 76, 77 and 78 that connect the open chambers of the actuators 61, 62, 63 to each other. In practice, the actuators 61, 62, 63 are preferably located at the same vertical height. Through the action of the throttle valves 69, 70, 71, the pressures in the open chambers of the actuators are kept different; more specifically, the pressure of the open chamber of the first actuator 61 is greater than the pressure of the open chamber of the second actuator 62, and the pressure of the open chamber of the second actuator 62 is greater than the pressure of the open chamber of the third actuator 63. Therefore, through the action of the calibrated throttle valves 69, 70, 71, the fluid in the open chamber of each actuator 61, 62, 63 differs in pressure from the fluid in the other open chambers by a predetermined pressure difference. The dimensions of the throttle valves 69, 70 and 71 are calibrated to ensure that the pistons move in the same direction.

[0064] It should be noted that each calibration throttle valve 69, 70, 71 is configured to determine the load loss in the realignment branch. Preferably, the load losses caused by the calibration throttle valves 69, 70, 71 are different from each other. More specifically, the load loss caused by the first calibration throttle valve 69 is smaller than the load loss caused by the second calibration throttle valve 70; the load loss caused by the second calibration throttle valve 70 is smaller than the load loss caused by the third calibration throttle valve 71.

[0065] The hydraulic circuit 6 may further include a first pressure switch 72 and a second pressure switch 73, both of which are connected to the first realignment branch 76, such that the first electric valve 76 and the first calibrated throttle valve 69 are inserted between the first pressure switch 72 and the second pressure switch 73. The hydraulic circuit 6 may include a third pressure switch 74 connected to the second realignment branch 77, such that the second solenoid valve 67 and the second calibrated throttle valve 74 are inserted between the second pressure switch 73 and the third pressure switch 74. The hydraulic circuit 6 may include a fourth pressure switch 75 connected to the third realignment branch 78 or the return branch 92, such that the third solenoid valve 68 and the second calibrated throttle valve 71 are inserted between the third pressure switch 74 and the fourth pressure switch 75. It should be noted that the pressure switches 72, 73, 74, 75 may be replaced by connector fittings to which a pressure gauge may be connected.

[0066] Preferably, in the step of supplying fluid to the open chamber of the first actuator 61, the fluid pressure in the forward flow branch 91 and the fluid pressure in the open chamber of the first actuator 61 are between 100 bar and 120 bar. Due to the first calibrated throttle valve 69, the pressure difference between the first pressure switch 72 and the second pressure switch 73 can be 20 bar; due to the second calibrated throttle valve 70, the pressure difference between the second pressure switch 73 and the third pressure switch 74 can be 35 bar; due to the third calibrated throttle valve 71, the pressure difference between the third pressure switch 74 and the fourth pressure switch 75 can be 52 bar.

[0067] In another embodiment, the actuators 61, 62 and 63 are connected in parallel with each other. In this embodiment, the forward flow branch 91 is connected to the open chambers of the actuators 61, 62, 63, and the return branch is connected to the closed chambers of the actuators 61, 62, 63. In this case, a distributor 60 and a cross check valve 79 are also provided, and the distributor 60 preferably includes a drawer valve. In this case, the hydraulic circuit 6 also includes a re-phasing system, which includes a branch; the branch is positioned between the cylinder and the distributor / diverter; in one example, the branch includes a first realignment branch 76, an open chamber of the first actuator 61 and an open chamber of the second actuator 62, and a second realignment branch 77 interconnecting the open chamber of the second actuator 62 and the open chamber of the third actuator 63. The re-phasing system also includes a first electric valve 66 connected to the first realignment branch 76 and a second electric valve 67 connected to the second realignment branch 77. In this case, the control unit is also configured to open the electric valves 66 and 67 when the piston is at bottom dead center. Since no calibrated throttle valve is provided in this case, the opening of the electric valves 66 and 67 sets the same pressure in the open chambers of the actuators 61, 62, 63.

[0068] Furthermore, in this case, the hydraulic circuit 6 comprises a flow divider 8. The flow divider 8 is a hydraulic component comprising a plurality of positive displacement gear pumps; more specifically, the flow divider 8 comprises a first positive displacement gear pump 81, a second positive displacement gear pump 82 and a third positive displacement gear pump 83. The pumps 81, 82, 83 are mechanically interconnected, wherein a pressure compensator keeps the cylinders of the actuators 61, 62, 63 at the same pressure regardless of the resistance load on them. In this way, the cylinders are aligned with each other regardless of the imbalance of the external resistance load. The re-phasing system is used to level out any pressure differences between the cylinders that occur, for example, due to tolerances or leaks.

[0069] Compared to an embodiment in which the actuators 61, 62, 63 are connected in series, an embodiment in which the actuators 61, 62, 63 are connected in parallel has the advantage that the actuators can be identical to each other and, more generally, the hydraulic circuit 6 is simpler; however, it has the disadvantage of higher cost due to the diverter 8 and because the diverter 8 requires a pump assembly 9 with a larger cylinder capacity.

[0070] The device 1 includes a communication interface (e.g., a button panel and / or one or more joysticks) 51, by which an operator can operate the tool actuator. More specifically, through the communication interface 51, the operator can drive the actuators 61, 62, 63 to raise the lower tire changer tool 31, 32, 33 from a rest position to a working position.

[0071] The paragraphs listed below, labeled with alphanumeric references, are non-limiting exemplary ways of describing the invention.

[0072] A. A device (1) for mounting and removing a tire relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, wherein the device (1) comprises: (1)

[0073] a wheel holder unit (2) configured to receive and lock the wheel in an operating position and to arrange the wheel to rotate about a rotation axis (A1);

[0074] A plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) configured to interact with a tire to install and / or remove the tire, wherein the plurality of tools comprises a plurality of tire removers (31, 32, 33) configured to operate simultaneously or synchronously on the same tire.

[0075] A1. An apparatus (1) according to paragraph A, wherein the rotation axis (A1) is parallel to gravity, so that in an operating position, the tire of the wheel has a first bead positioned at a first vertical height and a second bead positioned at a second vertical height lower than the first vertical height, and wherein a tool among a plurality of tire removers (31, 32, 33) (e.g., a tire remover; for simplicity, reference is made to the tire remover hereinafter, however, it should be understood that the term should also include tools other than the tire remover) is configured to operate simultaneously or synchronously on the second bead of the tire.

[0076] A2. The apparatus according to paragraph A or A1, wherein the tire removers of the plurality of tire removers (31, 32, 33) are arranged around the wheel retainer unit (2).

[0077] A2.1. The apparatus according to paragraph A2, wherein the tire removers of the plurality of tire removers (31, 32, 33) are angularly spaced around the wheel retainer unit (2).

[0078] A2.1.1. The apparatus according to paragraph A2.1, wherein the plurality of tire removers (31, 32, 33) comprises three tire removers angularly spaced 120° from each other.

[0079] A3. Equipment according to any of paragraphs A through A2.2.1, including:

[0080] A hydraulic circuit (6) comprising a pump (9);

[0081] a plurality of hydraulic actuators (61, 62, 63) connected to the hydraulic circuit (6), wherein each of the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) defines an internal space and includes a piston slidable in the internal space, wherein the piston divides the internal space into an open chamber and a closed chamber,

[0082] Each of the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) is configured to drive a corresponding lower tire remover (tool) (31, 32, 33) among the plurality of lower tire removers (tools).

[0083] A3.1. An apparatus according to paragraph A3, wherein the hydraulic circuit (6) is configured to synchronously drive actuators of a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0084] A3.1.1. An apparatus according to paragraph A3.1, wherein the hydraulic circuit (6) includes a re-phasing system configured to automatically realign actuators among a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), wherein the re-phasing system includes an electronic card and one or more electric valves (66, 67, 68) positioned in corresponding one or more realignment branches (76, 77, 78) of the hydraulic circuit (6), wherein the electronic card is programmed to open the one or more electric valves (66, 67, 68) in response to a predetermined event to establish additional fluid communication between the actuators among the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0085] A3.1.1.1. An apparatus according to paragraph A3.1.1, wherein, in each of a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), a piston is capable of sliding in an internal space between an upper dead center and a lower dead center, wherein, at the upper dead center, the open chamber has its maximum dimension and the closed chamber has its minimum dimension, and at the lower dead center, the open chamber has its minimum dimension and the closed chamber has its maximum dimension, wherein the rephasing system comprises a sensor associated with the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), wherein the sensor is configured to send a position signal to an electronic card in response to detecting the piston at the lower dead center (or at a predetermined distance thereof), wherein the electronic card is configured to open one or more electric valves (66, 67, 68) in response to receiving the position signal from the sensor.

[0086] A3.1.1.1.1. Apparatus according to paragraph A3.1.1.1, wherein the electronic card comprises a timer configured to count a predetermined length of time, wherein the control unit is configured to reclose one or more electric valves (66, 67, 68) when the predetermined length of time has elapsed.

[0087] A3.1.1.1.1.1. The apparatus of paragraph A.3.1.1.1.1, wherein the predetermined length of time is between 2 seconds and 4 seconds.

[0088] A3.1.2. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs A3.1 to A3.1.1.1.1.1, wherein the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) include a first actuator (61) and a second actuator (62), wherein the open chamber of the first actuator (61) is operably connected to a pump (9) to receive fluid from the pump (9) and / or to deliver fluid to the pump (9), and the open chamber of the second actuator (62) is connected to the closed chamber of the first actuator (61) to receive fluid from the first actuator (61) and / or to deliver fluid to the first actuator (61).

[0089] A3.1.2.1. An apparatus according to paragraph A.3.1.2, wherein, for each of the first actuator (61) and the second actuator (62), the piston comprises a rod (61B, 62B) and a plunger (61C, 62C), wherein the diameter of the cylinder (61A) of the first actuator (61) is greater than the diameter of the cylinder (62A) of the second actuator (62).

[0090] A3.1.2.1.1. An apparatus according to paragraph A3.1.2.1, wherein the cross-section of the rod (61B) of the first actuator (61) is greater than the cross-section of the rod (62B) of the second actuator (62).

[0091] A3.1.2.2. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs A3.1.2 to A3.1.2.1.1, wherein the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) include a third actuator (63), an open chamber of the third actuator (63) being connected to a closed chamber of a second actuator (62) to receive fluid from the second actuator (62) and / or to deliver fluid to the second actuator (62).

[0092] A3.1.2.3. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs A3.1.2 to A3.1.2.2, wherein the hydraulic circuit (6) includes a re-phasing system configured to automatically realign actuators among a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), wherein the re-phasing system includes an electronic card and a plurality of electric valves (66, 67, 68), the number of the electric valves (66, 67, 68) being equal to the number of actuators (61, 62, 63) among the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0093] A3.1.2.3.1. Apparatus according to paragraph A3.1.2.3, wherein, for each electric valve (66, 67, 68), the re-phasing system further comprises a calibrated throttle valve (69, 70, 71) located in the corresponding realignment branch (76, 77, 78).

[0094] A3.1.2.4. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs A3.1.2 to A3.1.2.3, wherein at least one realignment branch (76, 77) interconnects the open chambers of a pair of actuators in a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0095] A3.1.3. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs A3.1 to A3.1.2.4, wherein the pump (9) has a delivery portion connected to an open chamber of an actuator among a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) and a return portion connected to a closed chamber of an actuator among a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0096] A3.1.3.1. Apparatus according to paragraph A.3.1.3, comprising a flow diverter (8) between a delivery portion of a pump (9) and an open chamber of an actuator of a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0097] A3.1.3.1.1. Apparatus according to paragraph A3.1.3.1, wherein the flow diverter device (8) comprises a plurality of mechanically interconnected positive displacement gear pumps (81, 82, 83).

[0098] A3.1.3.1.1.1. An apparatus according to paragraph A3.1.3.1.1, wherein the flow diversion device (8) comprises a plurality of positive displacement gear pumps (81, 82, 83), the number of which is equal to the number of actuators in a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), wherein each positive displacement gear pump (81, 82, 83) is configured to supply fluid to a corresponding actuator in the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0099] A3.1.3.1.1.1.1. Apparatus according to paragraph A3.1.3.1.1.1, wherein the flow diverter (8) comprises a pressure compensator to maintain the same pressure in the cylinders of the actuators of the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) regardless of the resistance load on them.

[0100] A3.1.3.2. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs A3.1.1 to A3.1.3.1.1.1.1, wherein the rephasing circuit (6) includes a plurality of electric valves (66, 67, 68), the number of the electric valves (66, 67, 68) being less than the number of actuators (61, 62, 63), and each electric valve (66, 67, 68) is located in a corresponding realignment branch (76, 77) connecting open chambers of a pair of hydraulic actuators (61, 62).

[0101] A3.2. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs A3.1.2 to A3.1.2.1.1.1.1, wherein the hydraulic circuit (6) comprises a pump assembly and a distributor, the pump assembly comprising a pump (9), a motor for driving the pump (9) and a tank for fluid, the distributor being configured to control the flow of oil.

[0102] A3.2.1. The apparatus of paragraph A3.2, wherein the dispenser comprises a directional valve (60) and a check valve (79).

[0103] A3.2.1.1. The apparatus of paragraph A3.2.1, wherein the directional valve (60) is a 4 / 3 drawer valve and the check valve (79) is a cross valve.

[0104] A4. The device according to any one of paragraphs A to A3.2.1.1, for each tire remover (31, 32, 33), comprises a corresponding support arm on which the tire remover (31, 32, 33) is mounted, and the support arm can be moved between a retracted position and a pulled-out position by the action of a corresponding actuator (61, 62, 63).

[0105] A4.1. The apparatus of paragraph A4, wherein the support arm is movable in a vertical direction parallel to gravity.

[0106] B. A device (1) for mounting and removing a tyre relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, wherein the device (1) comprises:

[0107] a wheel holder unit (2) configured to receive and lock the wheel in an operating position and to arrange the wheel to rotate about a rotation axis (A1);

[0108] a plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) configured to interact with a tire to install and / or remove the tire;

[0109] Wherein, the wheel retainer unit (2) comprises:

[0110] a rotating rod (21) which is rotatable about a rotation axis (A1) and has a hole at its top;

[0111] a locking device (26) having a lower end and an upper end, wherein a hole at the top of the rotating rod (21) is adapted to receive the lower end of the locking device (26) to lock the rim in position between the top of the rod and the upper end of the locking device (26);

[0112] A plurality of turntables (22, 23, 24, 25) are arranged around a rotating rod (21) and rotate together with the rotating rod (21) around a rotation axis (A1).

[0113] B1. The apparatus of paragraph B, wherein the axis of rotation (A1) is parallel to gravity.

[0114] B2. An apparatus according to paragraph B or B1, wherein the turntables of the plurality of turntables (22, 23, 24, 25) are equidistant from the axis of rotation (A1).

[0115] B3. Apparatus according to any of paragraphs B to B2, wherein the turntable is in the form of a cylinder, preferably made of plastic.

[0116] B4. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs B to B3, wherein a turntable (22, 23, 24, 25) of a plurality of turntables (22, 23, 24, 25) is movable radially relative to the axis of rotation (A1) between a plurality of operating positions.

[0117] B4.1. Apparatus according to paragraph B4, wherein a plurality of turntables (22, 23, 24, 25) are radially movable in a coordinated manner.

[0118] B5. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs B to B4.1, wherein the wheel retainer unit includes a plate (27) oriented perpendicular to the rotation axis (A1) and connected to the rotation shaft to rotate around the rotation axis (A1), wherein the rotation shaft (21) and a turntable (22, 23, 24, 25) of a plurality of turntables (22, 23, 24, 25) are supported by the plate (27).

[0119] B5.1. An apparatus according to paragraph B5, wherein the plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) include a plurality of lower tire removers (31, 32, 33) configured to interact with the lower sidewall of the tire and controlled by corresponding actuators among a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) to move between a static position and a working position, wherein in the static position the plurality of lower tire removers are located at a vertical height below the plate (27), and in the working position the plurality of lower tire removers are located at a vertical height above the plate (27) to interact with the tire.

[0120] B6. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs B to B5.1 in combination with any of paragraphs A to A4.1.

[0121] C. A device (1) for mounting and removing a tyre relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, wherein the device (1) comprises:

[0122] a wheel holder unit (2) configured to receive and lock the wheel in an operating position and to arrange the wheel to rotate about a rotation axis (A1);

[0123] a tool holder column (4) oriented parallel to gravity;

[0124] a working unit (41) slidably coupled to the column (4) to move along a lifting axis (A2) parallel to gravity and to rotate about the tool holder column (4);

[0125] a first tool holder assembly (42) and a second tool holder assembly (43) connected to the work unit (41) and extending away from the tool holder column (4) in respective angularly spaced directions,

[0126] A plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) are configured to interact with a tire to install and / or remove the tire, wherein the plurality of tools includes at least a first tool mounted on a first tool holder assembly and a second tool mounted on a second tool holder assembly.

[0127] C1. An apparatus (1) according to paragraph C, comprising a rotating sleeve rotatably connected to a tool holder column (4) so ​​as to rotate thereabout about a lifting axis (A2), wherein a working unit (41) is slidably connected to an outer surface of the sleeve so as to move translationally relative to the sleeve along the lifting axis (A2).

[0128] C1.1. The device (1) according to paragraph C.1, comprising a lifting actuator configured to move the working unit relative to the sleeve along the lifting axis (A2), the lifting actuator preferably being a hydraulic actuator.

[0129] C1.1.1. The device (1) according to paragraph C.1.1, comprising a control unit connected to the lifting actuator and configured to command the lifting actuator to move the working unit along the lifting axis (A2).

[0130] C1.1.1.1. The device (1) according to paragraph C.1.1.1, comprising a selector switch configured to select a position of the working unit from a plurality of predetermined positions.

[0131] C2. An apparatus (1) according to any of paragraphs C to C1.1.1.1, wherein the first tool holder assembly supports an installation tool and a removal tool (34) vertically spaced apart from each other, and / or the second tool holder assembly supports a pair of placenta removers vertically spaced apart from each other.

[0132] C2.1. An apparatus (1) according to paragraph C2, wherein an operating head for assisting disassembly (i.e., a disassembly tool (34)) includes a first portion extending in a first direction, a second portion extending in a second direction different from the first direction and having a first end connected to the first portion, and a wheel rotatably connected to a second end of the second portion opposite to the first end.

[0133] C2.2. The device (1) according to paragraph C2 or paragraph C2.1 comprises a lower operating head provided with at least one additional lower tire remover tool and a lower installation tool, wherein the additional lower tire remover tool is configured to operate on the lower tire bead, the lower installation tool has an elongated shape so that it can be operably inserted between the lower tire bead and the upper edge of the rim, and the lower installation tool is angularly spaced from the additional lower tire remover tool by a predetermined angle, wherein the lower operating head can rotate around a corresponding rotation axis so that the additional lower tire remover tool and the lower installation tool can be selectively and alternatively positioned in an operating structure in which they are guided toward the wheel by rotation of the lower operating head.

[0134] C3. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs C to C2.2, wherein the wheel retainer unit (2) includes a plate (27) oriented perpendicular to the rotation axis (A1) and connected to the rotation shaft to rotate around the rotation axis (A1), wherein a plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) include a plurality of lower tire removers (31, 32, 33) arranged around the wheel retainer unit (2) and configured to interact with the lower side wall of the tire and controlled by corresponding actuators (61, 62, 63) to move between a static position and a working position, in which the plurality of lower tire removers are located at a vertical height below the plate (27), and in the working position, the plurality of lower tire removers are located at a vertical height above the plate (27) to interact with the tire.

[0135] C4. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs C to C3 in combination with any of paragraphs A to A4.1.

[0136] C5. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs C to C3 in combination with any of paragraphs B to B5.1.

[0137] D. A device (1) for mounting and removing a tyre relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, wherein the device (1) comprises:

[0138] a wheel holder unit (2) configured to receive and lock the wheel in an operating position and to arrange the wheel to rotate about a rotation axis (A1);

[0139] a plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) configured to interact with a tire to install and / or remove the tire;

[0140] A hydraulic circuit (6) comprising a pump (9);

[0141] a plurality of hydraulic actuators (61, 62, 63) connected to the hydraulic circuit (6), wherein each of the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) defines an internal space and includes a piston slidable in the internal space, wherein the piston divides the internal space into an open chamber and a closed chamber,

[0142] The hydraulic circuit (6) is configured to synchronously drive actuators of a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0143] D1. An apparatus according to paragraph D, wherein the hydraulic circuit (6) includes a re-phasing system configured to automatically realign actuators among a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), wherein the re-phasing system includes an electronic card and one or more electric valves (66, 67, 68) positioned in corresponding one or more realignment branches (76, 77, 78) of the hydraulic circuit (6), wherein the electronic card is programmed to open the one or more electric valves (66, 67, 68) in response to a predetermined event to establish additional fluid communication between the actuators among the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0144] D1.1. An apparatus according to paragraph D1, wherein, in each actuator of a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), a piston can slide in an internal space between an upper dead center and a lower dead center, wherein, at the upper dead center, the open chamber has its maximum size and the closed chamber has its minimum size, and at the lower dead center, the open chamber has its minimum size and the closed chamber has its maximum size, wherein the rephasing system includes a sensor associated with the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), wherein the sensor is configured to send a position signal to an electronic card in response to detecting the piston at the lower dead center (or at a predetermined distance thereof), wherein the electronic card is configured to open one or more electric valves (66, 67, 68) in response to receiving the position signal from the sensor.

[0145] D1.1.1. An apparatus according to paragraph D1.1, wherein the electronic card includes a timer configured to count a predetermined length of time, wherein the control unit is configured to reclose one or more electric valves (66, 67, 68) when the predetermined length of time has elapsed, and the predetermined length of time is preferably between 2 seconds and 4 seconds or between 1 second and 5 seconds.

[0146] D2. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D1 to D1.1.1, wherein, for each electric valve (66, 67, 68), the re-phasing system further comprises a calibrated throttle valve (69, 70, 71) located in the corresponding realignment branch (76, 77, 78).

[0147] D2.1. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D to D2, wherein at least one realignment branch (76, 77) interconnects the open chambers of a pair of actuators in a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0148] D2.2. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D to D2.1, wherein the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) include a first actuator (61) and a second actuator (62), wherein the open chamber of the first actuator (61) is operably connected to a pump (9) to receive fluid from the pump (9) and / or to deliver fluid to the pump (9), and the open chamber of the second actuator (62) is connected to the closed chamber of the first actuator (61) to receive fluid from the first actuator (61) and / or to deliver fluid to the first actuator (61).

[0149] D2.2.1. An apparatus according to paragraph D2.2, wherein, for each of the first actuator (61) and the second actuator (62), the piston includes a rod (61B, 62B) and a plunger (61C, 62C), wherein the diameter of the cylinder (61A) of the first actuator (61) is greater than the diameter of the cylinder (62A) of the second actuator (62), and / or the cross-section of the rod (61B) of the first actuator (61) is greater than the cross-section of the rod (62B) of the second actuator (62).

[0150] D3. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D to D1.1.1, wherein the pump (9) has a delivery portion connected to an open chamber of an actuator among a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) and a return portion connected to a closed chamber of an actuator among a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0151] D3.1. An apparatus according to paragraph D3, comprising a flow dividing device (8) located between the delivery part of the pump (9) and the open chamber of an actuator of a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0152] D3.1.1. Apparatus according to paragraph D3.1, wherein the flow dividing device (8) comprises a plurality of mechanically interconnected positive displacement gear pumps (81, 82, 83).

[0153] D3.1.1.1. An apparatus according to paragraph D3.1.1, wherein the flow diversion device (8) includes a plurality of positive displacement gear pumps (81, 82, 83), the number of which is equal to the number of actuators in a plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63), wherein each positive displacement gear pump (81, 82, 83) is configured to supply fluid to a corresponding actuator in the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0154] D3.1.1.1.1. Apparatus according to paragraph D3.1.1.1, wherein the flow diverter (8) comprises a pressure compensator to maintain the same pressure in the cylinders of the actuators of the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63) regardless of the resistance load on them.

[0155] D3.2. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D3 to D3.1.1.1.1, wherein the rephasing circuit (6) includes a plurality of electric valves (66, 67, 68), the number of the electric valves (66, 67, 68) being less than the number of actuators (61, 62, 63), and each electric valve (66, 67, 68) is located in a corresponding realignment branch (76, 77) connecting open chambers of a pair of hydraulic actuators (61, 62).

[0156] D4. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D to D2.2, wherein the plurality of actuators comprises a first actuator (61) and a second actuator (62), the first actuator (61) being associated with the wheel retainer unit (2) to move the wheel retainer unit (2) along the rotation axis (A1), and the second actuator (62) being associated with a tool among a plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) to move the tool toward and away from the wheel retainer unit (2) along a horizontal direction parallel to the rotation axis (A1).

[0157] D4.1. An apparatus according to paragraph D4, wherein the rotation axis (A1) of the wheel retainer unit (2) is perpendicular to gravity.

[0158] D5. The apparatus of any of paragraphs D to D4.1, wherein the plurality of tools includes a plurality of tire removers configured to operate simultaneously on the same bead of the tire.

[0159] D6. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D to D5 in combination with any of paragraphs A to A4.1.

[0160] D7. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D to D6 in combination with any of paragraphs B to B5.1.

[0161] D8. An apparatus according to any of paragraphs D to D7 in combination with any of paragraphs C to C3.

[0162] E. A method for removing and / or installing a tire relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, comprising the following steps:

[0163] Receiving and locking the wheel into the wheel holder unit (2);

[0164] Rotating the wheel about the axis of rotation (A1) by means of the wheel holder unit (2);

[0165] A plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) are moved, wherein the plurality of tools include a plurality of tire removers (31, 32, 33), the plurality of tire removers being moved in moving steps such that they operate simultaneously or synchronously on the same bead of the tire.

[0166] E1. The method of paragraph E, wherein the apparatus has one or more features of the apparatus of paragraphs A1 to A4.1.

[0167] F. A method for removing and / or installing a tire relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, comprising the following steps:

[0168] Receiving and locking the wheel into the wheel holder unit (2);

[0169] Rotating the wheel about the axis of rotation (A1) by means of the wheel holder unit (2);

[0170] moving a plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) which interact with the tire to mount and / or remove the tire,

[0171] wherein the wheel is locked in place by a locking device (26) having a lower end and an upper end, the upper end acting together with a rotating rod (21) which is rotatable about an axis of rotation (A1) and has a hole at its top, wherein the hole at the top of the rotating rod (21) receives the lower end of the locking device (26) to lock the wheel rim in position between the top of the rod and the upper end of the locking device (26);

[0172] The wheel holder unit further comprises a plurality of turntables (22, 23, 24, 25) which are arranged around the rotating rod (21) and rotate together with the rotating rod (21) around the rotation axis (A1), wherein the turntables (22, 23, 24, 25) among the plurality of turntables (22, 23, 24, 25) have corresponding ends (e.g., upper ends or lateral ends) which abut against corresponding rim portions positioned around the center hole of the rim when the rim is received by the wheel holder unit (2).

[0173] F1. A method according to paragraph F, wherein the device has one or more features of the device from B1 to B6, and / or the method has one or more features of paragraph E.

[0174] G. A method for removing and / or installing a tire relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, comprising the following steps:

[0175] Receiving and locking the wheel into the wheel holder unit (2);

[0176] Rotating the wheel about the axis of rotation (A1) by means of the wheel holder unit (2);

[0177] A plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) are moved, which interact with the tire to remove and / or install the tire, wherein the plurality of tools include at least a first tool mounted on a first tool holder assembly and a second tool mounted on a second tool holder assembly, the first tool and the second tool are both connected to the working unit (41) and extend away from the tool holder column (4) along corresponding angularly spaced directions.

[0178] G1. A method according to paragraph G, wherein the device has one or more features of the device from C1 to C5, and / or the method has one or more features of the method of paragraphs E and / or F.

[0179] H. A method for removing and / or mounting a tire relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, comprising the following steps:

[0180] Receiving and locking the wheel into the wheel holder unit (2);

[0181] Rotating the wheel about the axis of rotation (A1) by means of the wheel holder unit (2);

[0182] moving a plurality of tools (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37) that interact with the tire to mount and / or remove the tire;

[0183] A plurality of hydraulic actuators (61, 62, 63) are driven synchronously by means of a hydraulic circuit (6), the hydraulic circuit (6) comprising a pump (9) and connected to the actuators of the plurality of actuators (61, 62, 63).

[0184] H1. The method of paragraph H in combination with one or more features of the apparatus from C1 to C5 or the method of paragraphs E and / or F and / or G.

Claims

1. A device for mounting and removing a tire relative to a rim of a corresponding wheel, wherein the device comprises: a wheel holder unit configured to receive and lock the wheel in an operating position and to arrange the wheel for rotation about a rotation axis; a plurality of tools configured to interact with the tire to install and / or remove the tire; A hydraulic circuit including a pump; a plurality of hydraulic actuators connected to the hydraulic circuit, wherein each of the plurality of actuators is connectable to a corresponding tool of the plurality of tools and / or other components of the apparatus, each actuator defining an interior space and comprising a piston slidable within the interior space, wherein the piston divides the interior space into an open chamber and a closed chamber, Characterized in that the hydraulic circuit is configured to synchronously drive actuators among the plurality of actuators.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that The plurality of actuators include a first actuator and a second actuator, wherein an open chamber of the first actuator is operably connected to the pump to exchange fluid with the pump, and an open chamber of the second actuator is connected to a closed chamber of the first actuator to exchange fluid with the first actuator.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that The first and second actuators each include a respective cylinder defining an interior space, and wherein the piston includes a rod and a plunger, wherein a diameter of the cylinder of the first actuator is greater than a diameter of the cylinder of the second actuator.

4. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The hydraulic circuit includes a realignment system configured to automatically realign actuators among the plurality of actuators, wherein the realignment system includes an electronic card and one or more electric valves positioned in corresponding one or more realignment branches of the hydraulic circuit, wherein the electronic card is programmed to open the one or more electric valves in response to a predetermined event to establish additional fluid communication between the actuators among the plurality of actuators.

5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that In each of the plurality of actuators, the piston is capable of sliding in the internal space between an upper dead center and a lower dead center, wherein, at the upper dead center, the open chamber has its maximum size and the closed chamber has its minimum size, and at the lower dead center, the open chamber has its minimum size and the closed chamber has its maximum size, wherein the re-phasing system includes a sensor associated with the plurality of actuators, wherein the sensor is configured to send a position signal to the electronic card in response to detecting the piston at a predetermined position, wherein, at the predetermined position, the piston is a predetermined distance from the lower dead center, wherein the electronic card is configured to open the one or more electric valves in response to receiving the position signal from the sensor.

6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that The electronic card includes a timer configured to count a predetermined length of time and to reclose the one or more electric valves when the predetermined length of time has elapsed.

7. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that The re-phasing system includes a plurality of electrically powered valves equal in number to the number of actuators in the plurality of actuators and, for each electrically powered valve, a calibrated throttle valve in a corresponding realignment branch.

8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that At least one realignment branch interconnects the open chambers of a pair of actuators of the plurality of actuators.

9. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The plurality of tools include a plurality of lower tire removers that can be moved between a static position and a working position by the action of the plurality of actuators, wherein in the static position, the plurality of lower tire removers are away from the tire of the wheel positioned at the operating position, and in the working position, the plurality of lower tire removers interact with the lower side wall of the tire of the wheel, wherein, in the working position, a tire remover among the plurality of lower tire removers is at a first vertical height, and in the static position, a tire remover among the plurality of lower tire removers is at a second vertical height lower than the first vertical height.

10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that The tire removers of the plurality of tire removers are arranged angularly and equally spaced from each other around the wheel holder unit.

11. The device according to claim 10, characterized in that The plurality of tire removers include three tire removers angularly spaced 120° from each other.

12. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that The rotation axis is parallel to gravity, so that in the operating position, the tire of the wheel has a first bead positioned at a first vertical height and a second bead positioned at a second vertical height lower than the first vertical height, and wherein the tire removers among the multiple tire removers in the working position are configured to operate simultaneously on the second bead of the tire.

13. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The rotation axis is parallel to gravity, and the wheel holder unit comprises: a rotating rod rotatable about the rotation axis and having a hole at its top; a locking device having a lower end and an upper end, wherein the hole at the top of the rotating rod is adapted to receive the lower end of the locking device to lock the rim in position between the top of the rod and the upper end of the locking device; A plurality of turntables are arranged around the rotating rod, are equidistant from the rotating axis, and rotate together with the rotating rod around the rotating axis.

14. The device according to claim 13, characterized in that A turret of the plurality of turrets is movable radially relative to the axis of rotation between a plurality of operating positions.

15. The device according to claim 13, characterized in that The wheel retainer unit includes a plate, which is oriented perpendicular to the rotation axis and connected to a rotation shaft to rotate around the rotation axis, wherein the rotating rod and a turntable among the plurality of turntables are supported by the plate, wherein the plurality of tools include a plurality of lower tire removers, which are configured to interact with the lower side wall of the tire and are controlled by corresponding actuators among the plurality of actuators to move between a static position and a working position, in which the plurality of lower tire removers are located at a vertical height below the plate, and in the working position, the plurality of lower tire removers are located at a vertical height above the plate to interact with the tire.

16. The device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The rotation axis is oriented perpendicular to gravity, and wherein the first actuator is associated with the wheel holder unit to move the wheel holder unit parallel to the rotation axis, and wherein the second actuator is associated with a tool of the plurality of tools to move the tool toward and away from the wheel holder unit.

17. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, comprising: a tool holder column oriented parallel to gravity; a work unit slidably coupled to the column to move along a lift axis parallel to gravity and to rotate about the tool holder column; First and second tool holder assemblies are connected to the work unit and extend away from the tool holder column in respective angularly spaced directions.

18. A method for removing a tyre from the rim of a corresponding wheel, the method comprising the following steps: receiving and locking the wheel to the wheel holder unit; rotating the wheel about an axis of rotation by means of the wheel holder unit; moving a plurality of tools, wherein one or more tools of the plurality of tools interact with the tire to remove the tire; Characteristically, the method comprises the step of synchronously driving a plurality of hydraulic actuators by means of a hydraulic circuit, the hydraulic circuit comprising a pump and being connected to actuators of the plurality of actuators.

19. The method of claim 18, comprising the step of automatically realigning actuators of the plurality of actuators, wherein the step of automatically realigning comprises opening one or more electric valves located in corresponding one or more realignment branches of the hydraulic circuit to establish fluid communication between the actuators of the plurality of actuators.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that The plurality of actuators include a first actuator and a second actuator, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator each define an internal space and include a piston slidable within the internal space, wherein the piston divides the internal space into an open chamber and a second closed chamber, wherein the step of driving the first actuator and the second actuator includes the following steps: supplying pressurized fluid to an opening chamber of the first actuator; by the action of the pressurized fluid in the open chamber of the first actuator, causing the piston of the first actuator to move and pressurize the fluid in the closed chamber of the first actuator; The pressurized fluid is caused to flow from the closed chamber of the first actuator to the open chamber of the second actuator through a connecting branch interconnecting the closed chamber of the first actuator with the open chamber of the second actuator.

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