Transfer ring column foot and transfer ring with reduced air holdup characteristics

Abstract

A transfer ring for vehicle tire manufacturing includes a segmented gripping surface radially expandable and contractible defined by a plurality of transfer ring legs, each leg having an inward surface mounted for movement toward and away from a central axis of the cylindrical gripping surface. Each inward surface has first and second side edges. Each side edge has a central portion configured to be generally parallel to the central portion of the other side edge and an intermediate portion formed between the two central portions. Each side edge has first and second tapered portions at opposite respective ends of the central portion. Each tapered portion extends outwardly from the respective central portion and toward the tapered portion of the other side edge. The tapered portions of the respective ends of the legs collectively form ends, each end decreasing in width away from the intermediate portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The general concept of the present invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing vehicle tires. More specifically, the general concept of the present invention relates to a transfer ring and a transfer ring shoe having features designed to reduce air retention within the tire during tire manufacturing. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle tire manufacturing typically involves the following steps: forming the tire carcass; forming the tire's separate annular belt and tread "package"; and then bonding the belt and tread package to the tire carcass to form a "green" tire. The green tire is subsequently processed to form the tread and various other features of the finished tire. During or after one or more of the above steps, additional steps may be performed, such as bonding the belt and tread package to the tire carcass (often referred to as "stitching" the belt and tread package).

[0003] The formation of the belt ply and tread package of a tire is typically accomplished using a belt ply and tread drum of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,013,147. This belt ply and tread drum typically defines an outer cylindrical surface or circumference, around which one or more layers of tire belt ply material (including, for example, reinforcing cords embedded in a polymer adhesive) are laid to define the belt ply or tread package. The circumference of the belt ply and tread drum is preferably expandable and contractable to allow, for example, removal of the completed belt ply and tread package from the drum. The completed belt ply and tread package is generally not radially expandable. However, the complete belt ply and tread package is typically flexible, such that the annular belt ply and tread package will deform and sag under the influence of gravity when unsupported. Furthermore, it is desirable that the adjustable circumference of the belt ply and tread drum allows a single drum to be used to form belt ply and tread packages with different diameters.

[0004] In vehicle tire manufacturing, tire forming drums of the type described in U.S. Patent No. 6,457,505 are commonly used to manufacture the tire carcass. Such tire forming drums typically define a radially expandable and retractable cylindrical working surface, similar to the belt layer and tread drum described above, on which the tire carcass is formed. After the tire carcass is formed on the cylindrical working surface, it is typically transferred to an expansion drum of the type described in U.S. Patent No. 6,602,372. The tire carcass is positioned around the expansion drum, and a portion of the tire carcass is covered by the belt layer and tread encapsulation. The tire carcass is then inflated to a ring shape similar to (though not typically exactly the same as) the shape of the finished tire. As the tire carcass is inflated, the belt layer and tread encapsulation are "stitched" to the tire carcass.

[0005] In modern tire manufacturing, the process of stitching the belt layer and tread package to the tire carcass is typically performed using a "stitching" machine of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 3,423,272. Such a stitching machine typically defines one or more rollers configured to be pulled close to a rotatable expansion drum when the tire carcass is positioned around the expansion drum, a portion of which is covered by the belt layer and tread package and the tire carcass is inflated into a ring. As the expansion drum rotates, the rollers of the stitching machine are used to press against the circumferential outer surfaces of the belt layer and tread package, thereby pressing the belt layer or tread package into the tire carcass and adhering the contact surfaces of the two components to each other. Alternatively, or in conjunction with a stitching machine, the belt layer and tread package can be "manually stitched" to the tire carcass using hand rollers or similar tools. In either case, the roller is typically applied to the outer surface of the belt layer and tread package, starting along a circumferential path along the axial center of the belt layer or tread package, and advancing in a spiral motion circumferentially around the belt layer and tread package and axially outward toward one of the opposing circumferential edges of the belt layer and tread package. In this way, any air gaps or voids that may exist between the belt layer and tread package and the tire carcass are compressed axially outward toward the outer peripheral edge of the belt layer and tread package.

[0006] In the aforementioned process, the steps of transferring the tire carcass from the tire forming drum to the expansion drum and transferring the belt layer and tread package to the tire carcass for stitching are typically accomplished using one or more transfer rings of the type described in U.S. Patent No. 8,091,602. This transfer ring, also known as an "O-ring," typically comprises multiple "shoe" segments with arcuate inner surfaces, collectively forming a segmented, radially inward-facing, typically cylindrical surface adapted to clamp and hold the tire carcass and / or belt layer and tread package. Each shoe segment is mounted on a suitable linkage such that the shoes can radially expand and contract relative to each other, allowing the diameter of the segmented, radially inward-facing cylindrical surface to expand for fitting onto the tire carcass and / or belt layer and tread package, to contract to grip the tire carcass or belt layer and tread package for transfer, and then to expand again to release the tire carcass or belt layer and tread package after transfer.

[0007] The curved inner surface of the footstock is generally referred to herein as forming a segmented "cylindrical" surface. However, it should be understood that the curved inner surface of the footstock can be formed with additional curvature to provide a more desired fit along the corresponding portion of the tire component's exterior. For example, in some designs of transfer rings, each inner surface of each footstock forming a segmented "cylindrical" surface defines a gradually changing radius in the direction along the axial dimension of that segment. In other words, in the axial direction of the cylindrical surface, the central portion of the footstock can be defined as concave or convex, and the contact surface can have a gradually changing radius outward to the edge / side of the footstock. Similarly, the curvature of each footstock's inner surface along the circumferential dimension can vary between the central portion of the footstock and the circumferential side edges. Therefore, while no perfect cylinder is defined, it can be understood that the curved surface of the footstock can form a generally "cylindrical" clamping surface.

[0008] Furthermore, in the design of existing transfer rings, the arcuate inner surface of the transfer ring foot is often referred to as having a “rectangular” shape. While the arcuate inner surface of the foot can be formed by the aforementioned circumferential and / or axial arcuate surfaces, the term “rectangular” can be used to describe a transfer ring foot having an inner surface that defines a circumferential end edge extending parallel to the central axis of the generally cylindrical segmented surface (i.e., perpendicular to the arcuate axial side edge of the foot). Therefore, when each foot is viewed in a plan view, the arcuate inner surface of the foot may resemble a curved rectangular shape. Similarly, while the feet of the transfer ring are generally described herein as having “radial” movement toward and away from the central axis of the transfer ring, it should be understood that various transfer ring designs can provide non-purely radial movement, such as, for example, “iris” movement along the radial and circumferential directions of the transfer ring.

[0009] When a transfer ring is used as described above to transfer the tire carcass and / or belt ply and tread package (collectively referred to herein as a "tire assembly"), the transfer ring is typically configured such that the legs apply considerable pressure to the outer surface of the tire assembly, which helps to maintain the uniform annular shape of the tire assembly to some extent during transfer. This high pressure applied to the outer surface of the tire assembly causes at least a portion of the arcuate inner surface of the legs to be imprinted into the tire assembly, resulting in an imprint of the inner surface of the legs and a corresponding protrusion adjacent to the imprint. However, when there is space between adjacent, oriented rectangular transfer ring legs, indentations can be formed in the tire assembly by legs leaving uncompressed areas (e.g., seams) between the legs. When the tire assemblies are stitched together, these rectangular indentations and the steep edges of the seams thus formed in the tire assembly cause air to be expelled at a 90-degree angle toward the circumferential edges of the belt ply and tread package. Therefore, these uncompressed seam areas in the tire assembly may not allow air to be freely transferred toward the edges of the belt ply and tread package. In some extreme cases, the presence of these uncompressed seam areas within the tire components can sometimes even create voids or gaps between the stitched surfaces of the tire components after the stitching machine and / or manual stitching tools have been used. In some cases, these voids or gaps can lead to undesirable performance characteristics of the finished tire, such as, for example, vibration and / or resonance of the rolling tire. This vibration and / or resonance can cause undesirable tire noise and / or vibration, increased tire wear and shortened tire life, and in some extreme cases, catastrophic tire failure. For example, these air trapping problems can be particularly problematic in applications where tire components are thin and the material is lightweight.

[0010] In view of the above, it is advantageous to provide a transfer ring equipped with a transfer ring post, which reduces air retention between tire components when the tire components are stitched together. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The foregoing and / or other aspects and advantages of the present invention can be achieved by providing a transfer ring in a system for manufacturing vehicle tires. According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the transfer ring may include a plurality of segmented, generally cylindrical clamping surfaces defined by inwardly extending and contracting radially, the inwardly extending surfaces being mounted to move toward and away from a central axis of the cylindrical clamping surfaces. Each inwardly extending surface may have first and second side edges, and each side edge may have a central portion configured to be generally parallel to the central portion of another side edge, wherein an intermediate portion is formed between the two central portions. Each side edge may have first and second tapered portions at opposite respective ends of the central portions, and each tapered portion of each side edge may extend in a direction outward from the respective central portion and toward the tapered portion of the other side edge. In various exemplary embodiments, the first tapered portions of the first and second side edges may collectively form a first end, and the second tapered portions of the first and second side edges may collectively form a second end, the widths of the first and second ends decreasing in a direction away from the intermediate portion.

[0012] In various exemplary embodiments, the first and second tapered portions of each of the first and second side edges may extend inwardly from their respective central portions at an angle of 30 degrees. The first and second ends may further define respective first and second end edges that are substantially parallel to each other. The first and second tapered portions of each of the first and second side edges may extend inwardly from their respective central portions to form curved first and second ends. The central portion of each of the first and second side edges may be narrower than one of the respective first and second tapered portions. The inward surface may be symmetrical about the midpoint between the first and second ends. In various exemplary embodiments, each inward surface may define an arcuate shape about the circumferential dimension of the cylindrical clamping surface. In various exemplary embodiments, each inward surface may define an arcuate shape about the axial dimension of the cylindrical clamping surface. In various exemplary embodiments, the central portions of each of the first side edges of each inward surface are shaped to meet and engage with the central portions of the second side edges of the adjacent inward surface at the contracted position of the transfer ring. In various exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second end edges is narrower than the central portions of each of the first and second side edges.

[0013] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a transfer ring foot for use in a system for manufacturing vehicle tires is provided. According to various exemplary embodiments, the transfer ring foot may include a plate defining a first surface for clamping a tire component and an opposite second surface, and a support for fixing the plate to move toward and away from the central axis of the transfer ring. The first surface may define opposing first and second side edges extending parallel to each other, opposing first and second end edges extending parallel to each other, and a plurality of tapered edges, each tapered edge extending inward from one of the first and second side edges and the first and second end edges, and extending inward between a respective end of one of the first and second side edges and the first and second end edges. A middle portion of the plate located between the first and second side edges may define a clamping surface for the tire component. Each end edge and a corresponding adjacent tapered edge may collectively define a tapered end of the plate, the tapered end being configured to form an air escape seam in the clamped tire component.

[0014] In various exemplary embodiments, each tapered edge may extend from the corresponding side edge at an angle of 30 degrees. In various exemplary embodiments, each tapered edge may extend inward from the corresponding side edge to form curved first and second ends. In various exemplary embodiments, each side edge may be narrower than each tapered edge. In various exemplary embodiments, the plate may be symmetrical about the midpoint between the first and second end edges. In various exemplary embodiments, the first surface may define an arcuate shape between the first and second side edges. In various exemplary embodiments, the first surface may define an arcuate shape between the first and second end edges. In various exemplary embodiments, the first side edge may be shaped to coincide with the second side edge. In various exemplary embodiments, the support may define a portion of a hinge connection for rotatably connecting the transfer ring foot to a driven link of the transfer ring. In various exemplary embodiments, the support may define a portion of a cam for holding the first surface of the transfer ring foot, together with other transfer ring feet mounted in the transfer ring, in a cylindrical configuration.

[0015] Additional aspects and advantages of the general concept of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of the general concept of the invention. Other features and aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description, the drawings, and the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The following exemplary embodiments represent exemplary techniques and structures designed to achieve the overall concept of the present invention, but the overall concept of the present invention is not limited to these exemplary embodiments. In the drawings and illustrations, for clarity, the size and relative size, shape, and mass of lines, entities, and regions may be exaggerated. Various additional embodiments will be more readily understood and appreciated through the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 It shows a transfer loop formed in a typically "rectangular" form;

[0018] Figure 2 A transfer loop having column feet configured as an exemplary embodiment of the general concept according to the present invention is shown;

[0019] Figures 3-4 It shows Figure 2 A three-dimensional diagram of the transfer ring column base; and

[0020] Figure 5 A perspective view of a transfer ring according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0021] Figure 6 Another embodiment of the transfer ring column foot with various features constructed according to the general concept of the present invention is shown.

[0022] Figure 7 Another embodiment of the transfer ring column foot with various features constructed according to the general concept of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Exemplary embodiments of the general concept of the present invention will now be referred to, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and figures. Exemplary embodiments are described herein in order to explain the general concept of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] The following detailed description is provided to aid the reader's comprehensive understanding of the structures and manufacturing techniques described herein. Therefore, various modifications, variations, and equivalents of the structures and manufacturing techniques described herein will be made by those skilled in the art. However, the described manufacturing operations are merely illustrative, and the order of operations is not limited to those described herein and can be changed as is known in the art, except for operations that must be performed in a specific order. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be simplified and / or omitted to improve clarity and conciseness.

[0025] Note that, for ease of explanation, spatially relative terms such as “up,” “down,” “right,” “left,” “below,” “under,” “low,” “above,” “over,” etc., are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature shown in the figure and another element or feature. Spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those shown in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped or rotated, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented as “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can include both above and below orientations. The device may also be in other orientations (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0026] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A transfer ring with column feet incorporating reduced air entrapment features is shown as an exemplary embodiment of the general concept of the invention. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The transfer ring, indicated by 10, includes first and second circular frame members 14 and 16, which are constructed in relationships of being fixed to each other, aligned, side-by-side, parallel, and spaced apart, respectively. The first and second circular frame members 14 and 16 have substantially the same inner and outer diameters, and both preferably have a substantially rectangular cross-section, which has opposing flat inner and outer surfaces, respectively. Two of these surfaces, 20 and 22, are... Figure 1 As shown in the figure, a plurality of hinge pin connectors 26 extend at spaced positions around the respective circumferential edges of the first and second circular frame members 14, 16, thereby rigidly maintaining the side-by-side, parallel, aligned and spaced relationship of the first and second circular frame members 14, 16, thereby defining a skeleton cage 25 having an open space 28 between the first and second circular frame members 14, 16.

[0027] Within the open space 28 of the skeleton cage 25, a circular drive member 30 is disposed, which is mounted to the first and second annular frame members 14, 16 in a side-by-side, parallel, and coaxial relationship via a plurality of rollers 40 extending between the first and second circular frame members 14, 16, such that the drive member 30 is rotatable relative to the skeleton cage 25 about its central axis. A plurality of driven links 32 are also disposed within the open space 28 of the skeleton cage 25. Each driven link 32 has an elongated geometry, with a first end hingedly mounted on a corresponding hinge pin connector 26 extending between the first and second circular frame members 14, 16, and a second end extending substantially into the skeleton cage 25.

[0028] Provide such as Figure 1The power source 44, such as a piston / cylinder assembly, is used to achieve controlled rotation of the drive member 30 relative to the cage 25. Therefore, actuation of the power source 44 causes rotational movement of the drive member 30 relative to the cage 25, thereby causing each drive link 32 to... Figure 1 The contraction position shown and Figure 2 The extended positions shown rotate about their respective hinge pin connectors 26. In the retracted position, the second end of each drive link 32 extends generally radially inward toward the central axis of the drive member 30 and the first and second circular frame members 14, 16. In the extended position, the second end of each drive link 32 extends generally along the circumference of the drive member 30. Note that... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The system shown is merely one type of transfer loop system that can adopt the overall concept of the present invention. For example, although Figure 1 and Figure 2 The system employs various connecting mechanisms to move the column feet in the radial direction, but other systems utilizing the general concept of the present invention may have different connecting mechanisms, or move the column feet in the generally radial direction without a connecting mechanism. For example, some transfer rings employing the general concept of the present invention may have an actuator array for moving the column feet in the generally radial direction, other generally radial column foot moving components, etc.

[0029] Further reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 And also refer to Figure 3 The transfer ring 10 includes a plurality of pins 12, each pin 12 defining an arcuate inner surface 48 to form segmented cylindrical surfaces 50 for gripping and transferring tire components. Figure 3As shown, in this embodiment, the inner surface 48 of each of the plurality of column feet 12 defines an octagonal frusto-rhomboid shape, which can be described as an "octagonal rhomboid" shape, wherein each gap between adjacent column feet is constant along the "axial central portion" of the column foot and widens in a region near the axial edge of the cylindrical surface 50. The column foot 12 of this exemplary embodiment has an inner surface 48 having first and second side edges 34, 36 configured to extend parallel to each other along the axial dimension of the transfer ring 10 parallel to the central axis of the segmented cylindrical surface 50. The first and second side edges 34, 36 extend only partially along the axial length of the inner surface 48, i.e., along the central portion of the inner surface 48, such that the region of the inner surface 48 between these parallel first and second side edges 34, 36 may herein be referred to as the "axial central portion" 37 of the column foot 12. Similarly, the inner surface 48 defines first and second end edges 38, 42, which are configured to extend parallel to each other along the opposing circumferential edges of the segmented cylindrical surface 50, in a direction parallel to the circumference of the segmented cylindrical surface, and along a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the segmented cylindrical surface 50. These first and second end edges 38, 42 extend only partially along the portion of the segmented cylindrical surface 50 formed by the inner surface 48 of the respective foot 12, i.e., along the central portion of that portion, such that the region of the inner surface 48 between these parallel first and second end edges 38, 42 may herein be referred to as the “circumferential central portion” 46 of the foot 12.

[0030] Tapered edges 52, 54, 56, 58 extend from each endpoint of the first and second side edges 34, 36 to the proximal endpoint of the adjacent first or second end edge 38, 42. For example, in Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment, a first tapered edge 52 extends between the respective proximal endpoints of a first side edge 34 and a second end edge 42. A second tapered edge 54 extends between the respective proximal endpoints of a second end edge 42 and a second side edge 36, and a third tapered edge 56 extends between the respective proximal endpoints of a first side edge 34 and a first end edge 38. A fourth tapered edge 58 extends between the respective proximal endpoints of a second side edge 36 and a first end edge 38. Each tapered edge 52, 54, 56, 58 generally extends from the respective side edge 34, 36 toward the respective end edge 38, 42 along a direction forming an acute angle with the axial length of the inner surface 48 of the base 12. Thus, each end edge 38, 42, together with the adjacent tapered edges 52, 54, 56, 58, defines a tapered portion 60, 62 of the inner surface 48 of the base 12, such tapered portions extending axially outward from the respective side of the axially central portion 37. Therefore, the width of the inner surface 48 of the column base 12, cut along the circumferential dimension of the segmented cylindrical surface 50, gradually tapers axially away from the axial center portion 37, forming tapered portions 60, 62 that gradually narrow outward from the axial center portion 37 of the column base 12 along the axial dimension. Thus, as... Figure 3 As shown, a gap with increasing width is formed between adjacent column feet in the direction of the outer ring edge of the segmented cylindrical surface 50.

[0031] Figure 4 Additional features of the column base 12 are shown, which provide attachment fasteners for securing the column base 12 to the corresponding driven link 32 of the transmission ring 10. Figure 4 In one embodiment, the outer surface 64 of the column base 12 further includes at least one wall 66 extending outwardly, generally perpendicularly, from the outer surface 64. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of walls 66, 68 extend outwardly from the outer surface 64, parallel to each other and spaced apart along the circumferential dimension of the column base 12. The walls 66, 68 are spaced apart at an appropriate distance to allow one end of a driven link 32 to be inserted therein. Suitable fastening devices, such as, for example, a plurality of axially aligned through holes 70, are provided along the walls 66, 68 and pass through each driven link to allow for the reception of pins, bolts, or other such rotatable connectors, thereby allowing each column base 12 to be rotatably connected to the corresponding driven link 32. In the illustrated embodiment, a threaded locating screw opening 72 is provided, perpendicular to the axial dimension of one of the through holes 70, such that when a pin connector is received through the through holes 70 in the walls 66, 68 and the driven link 32, a locating screw (not shown) can be received within the locating screw opening 72 to secure the pin connector through the through hole 70. However, it should be understood that other suitable configurations exist for achieving a rotatable connection between each column foot 12 and the corresponding driven link 32, and such other configurations can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the overall concept of the invention.

[0032] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 Each first wall 66 of each pillar 12 defines first and second recesses 74, 76, each first recess 74 having at least one open end facing an opening of an adjacent pillar, and each second recess 76 having at least one open end facing an opening of an opposite adjacent pillar. The first recess 74 is adapted to receive a first end therein of a rigid guide rod (not shown), the rigid guide rod being long enough to span two adjacent pillars 12. Each guide rod is secured within its respective first recess 74 by suitable fasteners such as screws, bolts, welding, adhesives, or other fasteners, or by an integral connection. The opposite second end of each guide rod extends into the second recess 76 of the adjacent pillar and is received therein in a slidable manner.

[0033] The driven link 32 is configured to be in the extended position (see [reference]) when the drive member 30 is properly rotated relative to the skeleton cage 25. Figure 2 ) and contraction location (see Figure 1 The segments rotate between the following positions. Therefore, when the driven link 32 rotates to the extended position, the column foot 12 is transported via the driven link 32 to the extended configuration, in which the inner surfaces 48 of the column foot separate to increase the total diameter of the segmented cylindrical surfaces 50. Conversely, when the driven link 32 rotates to the retracted position, the column foot 12 is transported via the driven link 32 to the retracted configuration, in which the inner surfaces 48 of the column foot 12 approach each other to decrease the total diameter of the segmented cylindrical surfaces 50. For this purpose, refer again... Figure 4 The first and second grooves 74, 76 are oriented relative to each other such that each guide rod slides along its corresponding second groove 76, so that the inner surface 48 of the base 12 remains in a generally cylindrical configuration relative to each other throughout the aforementioned expansion and contraction process between the expansion and contraction configurations of the base 12.

[0034] It will be appreciated that the pedestal 12 of the tapered portion extending axially outward from its central portion 37 of the aforementioned defining inner surface 48 enables a transfer ring 10 such that, if used to emboss the inner surface 48 of the pedestal 12 onto the tire component, the majority of the embossed edge extends in a direction parallel to or at an acute angle to the axial dimension of the segmented cylindrical surface 50. In other words, the embossed portions defined by the first and second side edges 34, 36 of the inner surface 48 extend parallel to the central axis of the tire component and the segmented cylindrical surface 50. The embossed portions defined by each of the tapered edges 52, 54, 56, 58 extend at an acute angle to the central axis of the tire component and the segmented cylindrical surface 50. However, only the relatively short first and second end edges 38, 42 form embossed portions with a seam that extends along the circumference of the tire segment, substantially perpendicular to the axial dimension of the segmented cylindrical surface 50. Therefore, when tire components defining one or more embossed sections of this shape are stitched to another tire component, the axially parallel and angled portions of the embossing defined by the side edges 34, 36 and the tapered edges 52, 54, 56, 58 allow air to move more easily toward the axial outer edge of the tire component, and this air can be more easily expelled therefrom. Meanwhile, compared to prior art transfer ring designs, the portion of the embossed section defining the seam extending perpendicular to the axial dimension of the tire component is reduced, and expelling air from between tire components across such an embossed portion may be more difficult.

[0035] In this regard, in some embodiments, the width of the axial central portion 37 of the column base 12, i.e., the width of the parallel first and second side edges 34, 36, can be configured to be smaller than the width of a standard sewing roller. Figures 1 to 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the taper angle “θ” of each tapered edge 52, 54, 56, 58 relative to the corresponding side edges 34, 36 is approximately 30 degrees inward from the side edges 34 and 36 toward the circumferential center portion 46 of the inner surface 48. However, it is understood that other angles and / or configurations are possible without departing from the overall concept of the invention.

[0036] Although Figures 1 to 5 The column bases 12 shown all have a generally octagonal rhomboid shape. It should be understood that many other shapes and constructions can be adopted without departing from the overall concept of the invention. For example, Figure 6 Another embodiment of the transfer ring post 12a, with various features constructed according to the general concept of the present invention, is shown. Figure 6In one embodiment, the column foot 12a tapers only from one side edge 36 to the end edges 38a, 42a, with the remaining side edge 34a formed along the entire axial length of the inner surface 48a of the column foot 12a. In other embodiments, the sides of the column foot may be formed to taper gradually in any of a variety of curved configurations (convex or concave), and may taper or bend gradually in the same direction circumferentially around the column foot.

[0037] As an example, Figure 7 Another embodiment of the transfer ring post 12b, with various features constructed according to the general concept of the present invention, is shown. Figure 7 In one embodiment, the column base 12b includes curved tapered edges 52b, 54b, 56b, and 58b, each tapered edge defining a recessed path toward the axial and circumferential center portion of the inner surface 48b. In this embodiment, the taper ratio of the axially outward tapered portion of the inner surface 48b begins abruptly and decreases as it approaches the end edges 38 and 42 of the column base 12b. Conversely, in other embodiments, convex tapered edges may be provided such that the taper ratio of the axially outward tapered portion of the inner surface begins gradually and increases as it approaches the end edge of the column base.

[0038] Regardless of the conical construction, it is desirable that the base be symmetrical about the midpoint between the end edges of the base 12. While the base can be symmetrical or asymmetrical from the first to the second side edges, it is desirable in various embodiments that the first and second end edges be substantially symmetrical to avoid harmonic problems in the finished tire. Due to the reduced air trapping provided by the base of the present invention, such harmonic problems that may exist in asymmetrical cases can also be reduced; for example, harmonic resonances can be mitigated. For instance, in Figure 6 In the embodiment, although the column foot 12a is not symmetrical in the circumferential direction of the arc-shaped inner surface 48a of the column foot 12a, the column foot 12a is still symmetrical from the end edge 38a to the end edge 42a.

[0039] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention can provide a transfer ring for use in a vehicle tire manufacturing system, the transfer ring comprising a segmented, generally cylindrical clamping surface defined by a plurality of inwardly arcuate surfaces capable of radially expanding and contracting, the arcuate surfaces being mounted to be substantially axially movable toward and away from a central axis of the cylindrical clamping surface, each arcuate surface having first and second side edges configured to be substantially parallel to each other at their respective intermediate portions, wherein at least one of the first and second side edges tapers gradually away from the respective intermediate portion to form first and second side portions with decreasing width in the direction away from the respective intermediate portion. Each of the first and second side edges may taper gradually from the respective intermediate portion to form first and second side portions with decreasing width in the direction away from the respective intermediate portion. At least one of the first and second side edges may taper gradually at an angle of 30 degrees in the direction away from the respective intermediate portion. The first and second side portions may be configured to have respective first and second end edges that are substantially parallel to each other. Each of the first and second side edges may taper gradually in the direction away from the respective intermediate portion to form curved first and second side portions. The parallel middle portions of the first and second side edges can be configured to be narrower than the stitch width, and in some example embodiments, the narrower middle portion itself can be the radius. The arcuate surface can be symmetrical about the midpoint between the first and second sides.

[0040] Many variations, modifications, and additional embodiments are possible, and therefore all such variations, modifications, and embodiments should be considered within the spirit and scope of the overall concept of the invention. For example, regardless of the content of any part of this application, unless expressly stated to the contrary, it is not required that any particular described or illustrated activity or element, any particular order of such activities, or any particular interrelationship of such elements be included in any claim herein or any application claiming priority herein. Furthermore, any activity may be repeated, any activity may be performed by multiple entities, and / or any element may be reproduced.

[0041] It should be noted that the simplified diagrams and figures included in this application do not show all the various connections and components of the various parts; however, those skilled in the art will understand how to implement such connections and components using reasonable engineering judgment based on the parts, figures and descriptions provided herein.

[0042] Many variations, modifications, and additional embodiments are possible, and therefore all such variations, modifications, and embodiments should be considered to be within the spirit and scope of the overall concept of the invention.

[0043] While the general concept of the invention has been illustrated by description of several exemplary embodiments, and while exemplary embodiments have been described in detail, the applicant does not intend to limit the scope of the general concept of the invention or to restrict it in any way by such description and illustration. Rather, the descriptions, drawings, and claims herein are to be regarded as exemplary in nature and not restrictive, and additional embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing descriptions and drawings. Additional modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, deviations from these details may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's general concept.

Claims

1. A transfer ring for use in a system for manufacturing vehicle tires, the transfer ring comprising: A generally cylindrical clamping surface, segmented and capable of radial expansion and contraction, defined by a plurality of inward surfaces, said inward surfaces being mounted to move toward and away from the central axis of said cylindrical clamping surface, each of said inward surfaces having a first side edge and a second side edge, each side edge having a central portion configured to be generally parallel to the central portion of the other side edge and forming a middle portion between the two central portions, and each side edge having a first tapered portion and a second tapered portion at opposite respective ends of said central portion, each tapered portion of each side edge extending in a direction outward from the corresponding central portion and toward the tapered portion of the other side edge; Wherein, the first tapered portion of the first side edge and the first tapered portion of the second side edge together form a first end, and the second tapered portion of the first side edge and the second tapered portion of the second side edge together form a second end, and the width of the first end and the second end decreases in the direction away from the center portion.

2. The transfer ring according to claim 1, wherein the first tapered portion and the second tapered portion of each of the first side edges and the second side edges extend inward from the respective central portion at an angle of 30 degrees.

3. The transfer ring of claim 1, wherein the first end and the second end further define respective first end edges and second end edges that are substantially parallel to each other.

4. The transfer ring of claim 1, wherein the first tapered portion and the second tapered portion of each of the first side edges and the second side edges extend inward from the respective central portion to form a curved first end and a curved second end.

5. The transfer ring of claim 1, wherein the central portion of each of the first side edges and the second side edges is narrower than one of the corresponding first tapered portion and the second tapered portion.

6. The transfer ring of claim 1, wherein the inward surface is symmetrical about the midpoint between the first end and the second end.

7. The transfer ring of claim 1, wherein each of the inner surfaces defines an arcuate shape with respect to the circumferential dimension of the cylindrical clamping surface.

8. The transfer ring of claim 1, wherein each of the inner surfaces defines an arcuate shape with respect to the axial dimension of the cylindrical clamping surface.

9. The transfer ring according to claim 1, wherein, The central portions of each of the first side edges of each of the inward surfaces are shaped to conform to and engage with the central portions of the second side edges of the adjacent inward surfaces at the contracted position of the transfer ring.

10. The transfer ring of claim 3, wherein each of the first end edges and the second end edges is narrower than each of the central portions of each of the first side edges and the second side edges.

11. A transfer ring post for use in a system for manufacturing vehicle tires, the transfer ring post comprising: A plate defining a first surface for clamping a tire component and an opposite second surface; and Supports are used to fix the plate to move toward and away from the central axis of the transfer ring; Wherein the first surface defines: The opposing first and second side edges extend parallel to each other; The opposing first and second end edges extend parallel to each other; and Multiple tapered edges, each tapered edge extending inward from one of the first side edge and the second side edge and the first end edge and the second end edge, and extending inward between the corresponding ends of one of the first side edge and the second side edge and the first end edge and the second end edge; The intermediate portion of the plate located between the first side edge and the second side edge defines a clamping surface for the tire component, and each end edge and the corresponding adjacent tapered edge together define a tapered end of the plate, the tapered end being configured to form an air escape seam in the clamped tire component.

12. The transfer ring foot of claim 11, wherein each of the tapered edges extends from the corresponding side edge at an angle of 30 degrees.

13. The transfer ring foot of claim 11, wherein each of the tapered edges extends inward from the corresponding side edge to form a curved first end and a second end.

14. The transfer ring foot of claim 11, wherein each side edge is narrower than each of the tapered edges.

15. The transfer ring post of claim 11, wherein the plate is symmetrical about the midpoint between the first end edge and the second end edge.

16. The transfer ring post of claim 11, wherein the first surface defines an arcuate shape between the first side edge and the second side edge.

17. The transfer ring post of claim 11, wherein the first surface defines an arcuate shape between the first end edge and the second end edge.

18. The transfer ring post of claim 11, wherein the first side edge is shaped to correspond to the second side edge.

19. The transfer ring foot of claim 11, wherein the support defines a portion of a hinge connection for rotatably connecting the transfer ring foot to a driven link of the transfer ring.

20. The transfer ring foot of claim 11, wherein the support defines a portion of a cam, the cam being used to hold the first surface of the transfer ring foot together with other transfer ring feet mounted in the transfer ring in a cylindrical configuration.

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