Curing mold assembly for non-pneumatic tire and method of manufacture

Abstract

A mold assembly for curing a non-pneumatic tire includes a mold segment and a curing shoe assembly supported on the mold segment. The curing shoe assembly includes a first actuation member supported on the mold segment in radial offset alignment with a mold axis. A second actuation member is supported for axial displacement relative to the first actuation member. A first curing shoe and a second curing shoe are laterally spaced apart from the first and second actuation members. The first and second curing shoes are operably connected to the first and second actuation members such that movement of the first and second actuation members toward one another causes the first and second curing shoes to laterally displace away from one another. In some cases, movement of the first and second actuation members away from one another causes the first and second curing shoes to laterally displace toward one another. Methods of manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire are also included.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] The subject matter of this disclosure broadly relates to the field of vehicle tire manufacturing, and more specifically to mold assemblies for curing non-pneumatic tires and methods for manufacturing non-pneumatic tires using such mold assemblies.

[0002] The subject matter of this disclosure is particularly relevant to wheeled vehicle applications and uses, and will be shown and described herein with reference to this. However, it should be understood that the subject matter of this disclosure can also be used in other applications and environments, and the particular uses shown and described herein are merely exemplary.

[0003] A conventional pneumatic tire includes a tire outer tube having a tread formed on or along its exterior, the tread being configured to engage a road or other ground surface. The tire outer tube includes an annular body formed of multiple layers or cords (e.g., radial cords, belt cords) having opposing sidewalls extending radially inward from a shoulder portion of the annular body to a bead forming a radially inward extent of the sidewalls. The inner surface of the annular body and the opposing sidewalls are covered by a liner defining the tire chamber of the pneumatic tire.

[0004] In conventional tire manufacturing processes, uncured tire carcass and tread components are loaded into a mold assembly on a tire curing machine. The mold assembly includes multiple die segments with inner surface portions comprising a section of tread pattern. The mold assembly is closed by the tire curing machine, which positions the die segments to abut against the tread material of the uncured tire component. The tire curing machine also includes a curing bladder positioned inside the mold assembly such that the uncured tire component is spaced outward from the curing bladder in its unexpanded state. During the curing process, the curing bladder expands, extending into the tire chamber of the uncured tire component and abutting against the liner. Under pressure from the mold assembly and the expanded curing bladder, the tire curing machine introduces heat into the uncured tire component, which vulcanizes or otherwise crosslinks the uncured tire material to form the finished tire.

[0005] Despite the widespread use and overall success of known types and varieties of tire mold components and manufacturing methods, certain drawbacks of known processes have been recognized, which may limit their applicability and / or use in relation to the manufacture of tire components with other structural arrangements, such as, for example, so-called non-pneumatic tires. Therefore, it is believed that it is desirable to develop mold components and manufacturing methods that can help overcome the aforementioned and / or other problems and / or drawbacks of known technologies, and / or otherwise advance the manufacture of non-pneumatic tires. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An example of a method for manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire according to the subject matter of this disclosure may include supporting a curing boot assembly on a first mold section having a longitudinally extending mold axis. The curing boot assembly may include a first actuating member supported on the first mold section, such that the first actuating member is arranged in a radially offset alignment with the mold axis. A second actuating member may be supported in a coaxial relationship with the first actuating member for axial displacement relative to the first actuating member. The first curing boot may be laterally spaced from the first and second actuating members, and the second curing boot may be laterally spaced from the first and second actuating members in a direction opposite to that of the first curing boot. The first and second curing boots may be operatively connected to the first and second actuating members such that: 1) movement of the first and second actuating members relative to each other in a first axial direction causes the first and second curing boots to be laterally displaced away from each other; and 2) movement of the first and second actuating members relative to each other in a second axial direction opposite to that of the first axial direction causes the first and second curing boots to be laterally displaced toward each other. The method may further include: providing an incompletely cured pneumatic tire assembly, the incompletely cured pneumatic tire assembly including a plurality of support structures arranged peripherally spaced from each other and a plurality of spaces arranged peripherally spaced from each other, wherein one of the plurality of spaces is located between adjacent support structures among the plurality of support structures. The method may further include: positioning the incompletely cured pneumatic tire assembly along a first mold section such that a curing boot assembly is disposed within one of the plurality of spaces and extends axially co-located with the incompletely cured pneumatic tire assembly. The method may further include displacing a first actuating member and a second actuating member relative to each other along a first axial direction, thereby laterally displacing the first and second curing boots away from each other to engage with and apply pressure to the incompletely cured pneumatic tire assembly. The method may further include: curing the pneumatic tire assembly.

[0007] An example of a mold assembly according to the subject matter of this disclosure, such as one that can be used to cure non-pneumatic tires, may include a first mold segment having a longitudinally extending mold axis and a curing boot assembly supported on the first mold segment. The curing boot assembly may include a first actuating member supported on the first mold segment, such that the first actuating member is arranged in a radially offset alignment with the mold axis. A second actuating member may be supported in a coaxial relationship with the first actuating member for axial displacement relative to the first actuating member. The first curing boot may be laterally spaced from the first and second actuating members, and the second curing boot may be laterally spaced from the first and second actuating members in a direction opposite to that of the first curing boot. The first and second curing boots may be operatively connected to the first and second actuating members such that movement of the first and second actuating members relative to each other in a first axial direction causes the first and second curing boots to be laterally displaced away from each other. Additionally, in some cases, movement of the first and second actuating members relative to each other in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction causes the first and second curing boots to be laterally displaced toward each other. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is an exploded top perspective view of the components of an exemplary, not fully cured, non-pneumatic tire shown before assembly.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary, not fully cured, non-pneumatic tire in an assembled state and ready for curing.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a front view of a tire curing machine, shown as having a mold assembly in an open state and an exemplary, incompletely cured, non-pneumatic tire being loaded.

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A front view of a tire curing machine, shown having a mold assembly in a closed state and an exemplary incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire loaded for curing.

[0012] Figure 5 This is an exploded top perspective view of the mold assembly, showing an exemplary gap-filling curing system prior to loading an exemplary, incompletely cured, non-pneumatic tire.

[0013] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An exploded bottom perspective view of an exemplary gap-filling curing system.

[0014] Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 The line 7-7 is cut off Figures 3 to 6A top cross-sectional view of the mold assembly and an exemplary incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire.

[0015] Figure 8 Is Figure 7 Enlarged view of the mold assembly identified as detail 8 and an exemplary portion of an incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire.

[0016] Figure 9 From along Figure 8 Line 9-9 is the cut-off point Figures 1 to 8 A cross-sectional side view of the mold assembly and an exemplary uncured, non-pneumatic tire.

[0017] Figure 10 yes Figures 5 to 9 The example curing boot assembly shown is a partially exploded top perspective view.

[0018] Figure 11 yes Figures 5 to 10 A top plan view of an exemplary cured boot assembly.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a graphical representation of an example of a manufacturing method according to the subject matter of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Turning now to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the illustrations are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, it should be understood that the drawings are not to scale, and portions of particular features and / or elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or ease of understanding.

[0021] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An example of an incompletely cured pneumatic tire is shown, the dimensions of which are designed for and / or otherwise configured for curing in a mold assembly according to the subject matter of this disclosure and / or by a manufacturing method according to the subject matter of this disclosure. It will be understood that various types, kinds, and / or constructions of pneumatic tires have been developed and / or used in different applications and / or environments. As a non-limiting example, the incompletely cured pneumatic tire (or tire assembly) 100 in… Figures 1 to 7The tire 100 is shown having a longitudinal axis AX and extending axially from end 102 to end 104 opposite to end 102. The partially cured pneumatic tire 100 may include an annular ring 106 extending peripherally around axis AX and a structural body 108 disposed outside at least a portion of the annular ring 106 and also extending peripherally around axis AX. The partially cured pneumatic tire 100 may also include an annular ring 110 extending peripherally around axis AX, wherein at least a portion of the annular ring 110 is disposed outside the annular ring 106 and / or structural body 108. The partially cured pneumatic tire 100 may further include a tread body 112 extending peripherally around axis AX, wherein at least a portion of the tread body 112 is disposed outside the annular ring 110.

[0022] It should be understood that the mold assembly and manufacturing method according to the subject matter of this disclosure are used to transform a non-pneumatic tire having one or more portions formed of an incompletely cured elastomeric material into a non-pneumatic tire in which all or substantially all portions are substantially fully crosslinked, vulcanized, and / or otherwise cured. Therefore, it should be understood and appreciated that any one or more of the foregoing components of the non-pneumatic tire 100 may include an elastomeric material that transforms an incompletely cured state to at least substantially fully cured state, and the arrangements of the non-pneumatic tire 100 shown and described herein are merely exemplary and not intended to be limiting.

[0023] It should be understood that the annular ring 106 may have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration, and may include any suitable number of one or more walls and / or wall portions. As a non-limiting example, the annular ring may be such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The outer wall or outer wall portion of a vehicle wheel or rim, as indicated by the reference character VRM, or otherwise at least partially forms the outer wall or outer wall portion. In such an exemplary arrangement, the annular ring 106 may include an annular wall (or an annular wall portion) 114 extending peripherally around a longitudinal axis AX. Optionally, the annular ring 106 may include a hub wall (or hub wall portion) HUB disposed inside the annular wall portion 114. If included, the hub wall portion HUB may be operatively connected to the annular wall portion 114. Additionally, if included, the hub wall portion HUB may be optionally sized for and / or otherwise adapted for conventional mounting on or along an associated component or device, such as, for example, mounting on an axle of an associated vehicle via bolt holes BHL.

[0024] The annular wall portion 114 of the annular ring 106 may extend axially between an annular edge 116 disposed toward end 102 and an annular edge 118 disposed toward end 104, which is axially spaced from the annular edge 116. The annular wall portion 114 may include an outer surface portion 120 that is radially outward and extends peripherally about the longitudinal axis AX and axially between ends 102 and 104. In some cases, the annular wall portion 114 may optionally include an inner surface portion 122 that extends peripherally about the longitudinal axis AX and is radially inward along end 102 and / or end 104 and / or between the ends.

[0025] The structural body 108 may include an inner covering or layer 124 and an outer covering or layer 126 disposed radially outside the inner layer 124. The inner layer 124 and the outer layer 126 extend axially between ends 102 and 104, wherein the inner layer 124 extends axially between edges 128 and 130 and the outer layer 126 extends axially between edges 132 and 134. In some cases, the inner layer 124 and the outer layer 126 may substantially extend together, such that edges 128 and 132 are at least substantially aligned with each other along end 102 and edges 130 and 134 are at least substantially aligned with each other along end 104. The inner layer 124 may at least partially define an inner surface portion 136 of the structural body 108, which extends peripherally about a longitudinal axis AX and extends axially between ends 102 and 104. The outer layer 126 may at least partially define the outer surface portion 138 of the structural body 108, which extends peripherally about the longitudinal axis AX and extends axially between the ends 102 and 104.

[0026] The main structural element 108 also includes a plurality of support structures 140 extending between the inner layer 124 and the outer layer 126 and operatively interconnecting the inner and outer layers. It should be understood that the support structures 140 may have any suitable shape, configuration, and / or arrangement, and may be operatively connected to the inner layer 124 and the outer layer 126 in any suitable manner. As a non-limiting example, the support structure 140 may extend axially from an edge 142 disposed toward end 102 to an edge 144 disposed toward end 104. The support structure 140 may also include an end 146 disposed toward the inner layer 124 and an end 148 spaced apart from the end 146 and disposed toward the outer layer 126. The support structure 140 is shown and described herein as having a curved or other form of non-linear profile along a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis AX. The support structure 140 is shown and described as having a concave surface portion 150 facing one circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis AX and a convex surface portion 152 facing the opposite circumferential direction. However, it should be understood that such configurations are merely exemplary and that support structures with other shapes and / or contours may be used alternatively without departing from the subject of this disclosure.

[0027] Support structures 140 are arranged peripherally spaced from each other about a longitudinal axis AX, such that a plurality of spaces 154 are also arranged peripherally spaced from each other about the longitudinal axis, wherein one of the spaces 154 is located between adjacent support structures in the support structure 140. In such an arrangement, the space 154 may have an arcuate, curved, or other generally crescent-shaped cross-sectional profile or configuration, wherein a concave surface portion 150 of one support structure 140 and a convex surface portion 152 of an adjacent support structure 140 at least partially define peripherally spaced sides of the space 154. In some cases, the support structure 140 may extend into or otherwise at least partially embed itself in the inner layer 124 and / or outer layer 126. In such cases, a portion 156 of the inner layer 124 may at least partially define an end surface portion 158 of the space 154, such as having a curved or other non-linear cross-sectional shape and / or configuration. Alternatively, or in an alternative, a portion 160 of the outer layer 126 may at least partially define the end surface portion 162 of the space 154, such as having a curved or other form of nonlinear cross-sectional shape and / or configuration.

[0028] It should be understood that the annular ring 110 may have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration, and may include any suitable number of one or more walls and / or wall portions. As a non-limiting example, the annular ring 110 may include an annular wall (or annular wall portion) 164 extending peripherally around the longitudinal axis AX. The annular wall portion 164 may extend axially between an annular edge 166 disposed toward end 102 and an annular edge 168 disposed toward end 104 and spaced axially from the annular edge 166. The annular wall portion 164 may include an inner surface portion 170 that faces radially inward and extends peripherally around the longitudinal axis AX and axially between ends 102 and 104 and / or otherwise. The annular wall portion 164 may also include an outer surface portion 172 that extends peripherally around the longitudinal axis AX and faces radially outward along end 102 and / or end 104 and / or between the ends.

[0029] The tread body 112 may extend axially between ends 102 and 104, wherein tread edge 174 is disposed along end 102 and tread edge 176 is disposed along end 104. The tread body 112 may also include a radially inwardly facing inner surface portion 178 and a radially outwardly facing outer surface portion 180. One or more tread structures 182 (e.g., grooves, ribs, lugs, sipes) may optionally be pre-formed on the tread body 112 or otherwise extend from the outer surface portion 180 of the partially cured pneumatic tire 100 into the tread body, wherein such tread structures are adapted during the curing process to at least partially define the tread (or tread pattern) of the mating surface on the cured pneumatic tire.

[0030] As discussed above, one or more walls and / or wall portions of the non-pneumatic tire 100 may be formed of an elastomeric material in an incompletely cured state, such that at least these walls and / or wall portions may be cured using a molding assembly and / or manufacturing method according to the subject matter of this disclosure. For example, the tread body 112 may be formed at least partially of an incompletely cured elastomeric material. Alternatively, one or more of the inner layer 124 and / or outer layer 126 of the structural body 108 may be formed at least partially of an incompletely cured elastomeric material. As another example, and / or as another alternative, the support structure 140 may optionally include one or more layers of an incompletely cured elastomeric material. As a non-limiting example of such a construction, in some cases, the support structure 140 may be formed at least partially of a sheet of a relatively rigid material (e.g., metal, fiber-reinforced composite material), and the ends 146 and 148 of the support structure may be at least partially embedded in or otherwise disposed within the inner layer 124 and outer layer 126 of the structural body 108, respectively. Alternatively, or in an alternative, the incompletely cured elastomeric material layer may extend along the concave surface portion 150 and / or the convex surface portion 152 and / or at least partially define the concave surface portion and / or the convex surface portion. As another non-limiting example, the support structure 140 may be formed at least partially of a plurality of relatively rigid wires and / or filaments arranged adjacent to each other and at least partially embedded in a quantity of incompletely cured elastomeric material to at least partially form a sheet-like structure.

[0031] It should be understood that the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire 100 may comprise any suitable elastomeric material or combination of elastomeric materials, such as, for example, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, and / or thermoplastic elastomers. Furthermore, it will be recognized and should be understood that in some cases, multiple components may be formed from a common incompletely cured elastomeric material. However, in other cases, two or more components, compounds, and / or grades of incompletely cured elastomeric materials may be used. As used herein, terms such as “incompletely cured” refer to elastomeric materials having polymer chains that become crosslinked or otherwise bonded upon exposure to heat and pressure, and / or compounds having “fully cured” or “substantially fully cured” elastomeric materials exhibiting material and / or mechanical properties significantly different from those of “incompletely cured” elastomeric materials. A non-limiting example of a suitable curing process includes the vulcanization of natural and synthetic rubber elastomers.

[0032] It should be understood that any combination of one or more incompletely cured elastomeric materials can be used or otherwise included in an incompletely cured pneumatic tire (e.g., pneumatic tire 100). As a non-limiting example, the incompletely cured pneumatic tire 100 may include one or more amounts of elastomeric material, wherein substantially all of each of the one or more amounts of elastomeric material is in an “unprocessed” or substantially completely uncured state. As another non-limiting example, the incompletely cured pneumatic tire 100 may include one or more amounts of elastomeric material in an “unprocessed” or substantially completely uncured state, and one or more amounts of elastomeric material in a state of at least partial curing. As yet another non-limiting example, the incompletely cured pneumatic tire 100 may include one or more amounts of elastomeric material in a state of partial but incomplete curing. Therefore, it should be recognized and understood that an incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire 100 may include, but is not limited to: one or more amounts of “unprocessed” or substantially uncured elastomeric material; or one or more amounts of partially but incompletely cured elastomeric material; or both one or more amounts of “unprocessed” or substantially uncured elastomeric material and one or more amounts of partially but incompletely cured elastomeric material.

[0033] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Other forms of conventional tire curing machines (TCPs) are schematically illustrated, including a base (PRB) having a base mounting surface (BMS). The TCP also includes a head (PRH) having a head mounting surface (HMS). The head (PRH) can be moved relative to the base (PRB) in a conventional manner, such as along a linear guide rod (LGR). The head (PRH) in... Figure 3 The center is shown positioned in a first or raised position, which is movable. Figure 4 The second or lowered position shown, the movement in Figure 3 The arrow MVT represents this. A tire curing machine TCP may include one or more pressurized fluid sources, one or more heated fluid sources, and / or one or more vacuum sources, such as in... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The components are schematically represented by dashed boxes PFS, HFS, and VCS, and may be included on the curing machine base PRB and / or curing machine head PRH, along the base and / or head, or otherwise operatively associated with the curing machine base and / or head, as is known in the art.

[0034] According to the subject matter of this disclosure, mold assembly 200 in Figures 3 to 9The components are shown as being operatively supported within, or otherwise supported on or along, the tire curing machine TCP. The mold assembly 200 includes: a mold section 202 supported on or along the base mounting surface BSM of the base PRB, and a mold section 204 supported on or along the head mounting surface of the head PRH. Mold sections 202 and / or 204 may be adapted to be operatively connected in fluid communication to a pressurized fluid source PFS and / or a vacuum source VCS in any manner such as, for example, transferring pressurized fluid to and / or from the mold section via one or more conduits or channels 206. Alternatively, or in an alternative, mold sections 202 and 204 may be adapted to be operatively connected in fluid communication to the heating fluid source HFS and / or the vacuum source VCS in any manner such as transferring (heated or otherwise) fluid to and / or from the mold section via one or more conduits or channels in conduit or channel 208.

[0035] The mold assembly 200 includes a mold axis MAX, which extends in or otherwise along the movement direction MVT of the tire curing machine TCP. Therefore, mold sections 202 and 204 can be axially displaced relative to each other during operation of the tire curing machine, wherein mold sections 202 and 204... Figure 3 The segments are shown as spaced apart to indicate the open state of the mold assembly, and mold segments 202 and 204 are shown in... Figure 4 The mold sections are shown as mutually extending engagements, thus representing the closed state of the mold assembly. Mold section 202 includes a gap-filling curing system 210 and a plurality of tread die segments 212 disposed around the periphery of the gap-filling curing system 210 to at least partially define a mold cavity 214 within mold section 202. Mold section 204 includes a surface portion 216 that at least partially defines a mold cavity 218 within the mold section. The mold cavity 218 is sized to receive at least a portion of mold section 202 in the closed state of the mold assembly. In some cases, as the mold section moves toward the closed state, the outer surface portion 220 of the tread die segment 212 may adjacently engage the surface portion 216 of mold section 204.

[0036] For example, as in Figure 3 The arrow LOA represents the middle part of the text. Figure 4As shown, when an incompletely cured pneumatic tire 100 is loaded into or otherwise at least partially positioned within a mold cavity 214, the tread die segment 212 is radially displaced inward to engage with the tread body 112 of the incompletely cured pneumatic tire 100. This radial compression causes the inner surface portion 178 of the tread body 112 to engage with the outer surface portion 172 of the annular ring 110. Additionally, this radial compression causes the inner surface portion 170 of the annular ring 110 to engage with the outer surface portion 138 of the structural body 108. In some cases, this radial compression may also cause the inner surface portion 136 of the structural body 108 to engage with the outer surface portion 120 of the annular ring 106. Furthermore, the tread head segment 212 includes features formed therein that are generally opposite to the surface portion 220. These features, under such radial compression, extend from the outer surface portion 180 along the tread body 112 to engage with the tread body to at least partially define the tread pattern (e.g., grooves, tread strips, tread blocks, sipes) on or along the engagement surface of the non-pneumatic tire 100.

[0037] like Figures 2 to 4As shown, in some cases, support plate 222 may be positioned along end 102 of the partially cured pneumatic tire 100. Alternatively, or in an alternative, support plate 224 may be positioned along end 104 of the partially cured pneumatic tire 100. If included, support plates 222 and / or 224 may help maintain the annular ring 106, structural body 108, annular ring 110, and / or tread body 112 in a desired axial position (e.g., substantially axially aligned) relative to each other, such as during transport to the tire curing machine TCP, loading the pneumatic tire 100 onto and / or unloading the pneumatic tire from the mold assembly 200 (or its mold section), and / or during rotational displacement or other positioning of the support structure 140 and / or space 154 about the longitudinal axis AX relative to the gap-filling curing system 210 and / or other features of the mold assembly 200. If included, support plates 222 and / or 224 may each include a plurality of openings 226 and 228 having a shape, configuration, and / or arrangement complementary to the support structure 140 and / or space 154 of the incompletely cured pneumatic tire 100 (e.g., radially offset from axis AX and arranged with a common peripheral spacing). Thus, if included, support plates 222 and / or 224, together with the pneumatic tire 100, can be positioned within mold cavity 214 and / or can be operatively engaged co-linearly with the filler curing system 210. Support plates 222 and 224 also include an outer peripheral edge 230, which, in a preferred arrangement, has an outer cross-sectional dimension substantially equal to or smaller than the outermost cross-sectional dimension of the pneumatic tire 100 (e.g., extending diametrically across the tread body 112). Additionally, in some cases, support plates 222 and 224 may optionally include an inner peripheral edge 232. In addition, in some cases, support plates 222 and 224 may optionally include an alignment ridge 234, which is sized to operably engage a portion of the incompletely cured pneumatic tire 100 (e.g., the inner surface portion 122 of the annular ring 106) such that the alignment ridge 234 extends axially with a portion of the pneumatic tire.

[0038] like Figures 5 to 11 As shown, the gap-filling curing system 210 includes Figure 7A plurality of curing boot assemblies 236, indicated by dashed lines, are arranged radially offset from the mold axis MAX and peripherally spaced from each other around the mold axis. In a preferred arrangement, the curing boot assemblies 236 are arranged such that one or more curing boot assemblies are positioned within a space of space 154 when the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire 100 is positioned within the mold cavity 214. In such an arrangement, the curing boot assemblies 236 can be selectively actuated and de-actuated (or otherwise released), such that the curing boot assemblies accordingly engage and disengage from one or more walls and / or wall portions of the structural body 108. In the engaged state, the curing boot assemblies can apply surface pressure to the structural body 108 and / or transfer heat to the structural body, such as being operable to transform one or more walls and / or wall portions of the structural body formed of an incompletely cured elastomeric material into a substantially cured elastomeric material.

[0039] That is, in the actuated state, the curing shoe assembly 236 can be adjacently engaged, thereby applying pressure and / or transferring heat to the inner layer 124 of the structural body 108. In this arrangement, the pressure applied by the curing shoe assembly pushes the inner layer toward the annular ring 106. Alternatively, the curing shoe assembly 236 can be adjacently engaged in the actuated state, thereby applying pressure and / or transferring heat to the outer layer 126 of the structural body 108. In this arrangement, the pressure applied by the curing shoe assembly pushes the outer layer toward the annular ring 110. Furthermore, and / or as another alternative, the curing shoe assembly 236 can be adjacently engaged in the actuated state, thereby applying pressure and / or transferring heat to the support structure 140, wherein adjacent curing shoe assemblies 236 apply pressure and / or transfer heat to the support structure disposed therebetween. In some cases, the curing boot assembly 236 may apply pressure and / or heat to or along the ends 146 and / or 148 of the support structure to ensure that the ends 146 and / or 148 are embeddedly engaged with the inner layer 124 and the outer layer 126, respectively.

[0040] It should be understood that the curing boot assemblies according to the subject matter of this disclosure may have any suitable type, variety, and / or configuration, and may be operably connected to and / or along the mold sections 202 and / or 204 in any suitable manner. In some cases, each curing boot assembly 236 may be supported on or along the mold section 202. In other cases, each curing boot assembly 236 may be supported on or along the mold section 204. In still other cases, one or more curing boot assemblies 236 may be supported on or along the mold section 202, wherein the remaining portions of the curing boot assemblies 236 may be supported on or along the mold section 204, for example, in an alternating or staggered arrangement.

[0041] As a non-limiting example, the gap-filling curing system 210 may include a support plate 238 on which one or more curing shoe assemblies of the curing shoe assembly 236 may be fixed or otherwise supported, or along the support plate. Additionally, the gap-filling curing system 210 may include a fluid pressure transfer (or distribution) system 240 operatively associated with one or more curing shoe assemblies of the curing shoe assembly 236, relative to the support plate 238. Figures 5 to 9 In the exemplary arrangement shown, the support plate 238 may be supported on or along the mold section 202, and the fluid pressure transfer system 240 may be supported on or along the mold section 204. In this way, the support plate 238, together with any one or more curing boot assemblies 236 supported thereon and the fluid pressure transfer system 240, can be separated from each other in the open state of the mold assembly 200 to allow the non-pneumatic tire 100 to be loaded and unloaded. The support plate 238, together with any one or more curing boot assemblies 236 supported thereon and the fluid pressure transfer system 240, can then be moved to engage with each other in the closed state of the mold assembly 200.

[0042] According to the subject matter of this disclosure, the cure boot assembly 236 may include any suitable combination of components operable to actuate and de-actuate (or otherwise release or retract) the cure boot assembly during the manufacturing process. For example, the cure boot assembly 236 may include cure boots 242 and 244 supported on or along a support plate 238 for lateral displacement between a retracted position (i.e., de-actuated state) and an extended position (i.e., actuated state), the retracted position being... Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown in the figure, the extension position is in Figure 8 As shown in and by Figure 11The dashed line EXT in the figure represents this. It should be recognized and understood that the retracted position (i.e., the de-actuated state) is suitable for loading and unloading the non-pneumatic tire 100 into and from the mold assembly 200, and the extended position (i.e., the actuated state) is suitable for performing the main manufacturing process of curing the non-pneumatic tire. Therefore, it should be understood that the curing boots 242 and 244 can be supported relative to each other on or along the support plate in any suitable orientation, such as corresponding to the curable characteristics of the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire 100. In a preferred arrangement, the curing boots 242 and 244 are displaced in opposite directions, such that the curing boots generate, fully or partially (e.g., acting at an obtuse angle), reaction forces (e.g., radial inward pressure from the curing boot 244 on layer 124 and radial outward pressure from the curing boot 242 on layer 126).

[0043] Curing boots 242 and / or 244 may include any suitable number of walls, wall portions, surfaces, and / or surface portions. In some cases, curing boots 242 and 244 may have different dimensions, shapes, and / or profiles, such as being complementary or otherwise at least partially corresponding to, for example, the support structure 140 of a non-pneumatic tire 100 and / or other wall and / or wall portion features and / or characteristics. As a non-limiting example, curing boots 242 and 244 may include a boot axis SAX disposed offset from the mold axis MAX and a boot body wall 246 extending axially between end surface portions 248 and 250. The boot body wall 246 includes an outer edge surface portion 252 extending axially between end surface portions 248 and 250, which generally faces outward away from the opposing curing boot. The outer edge surface portion 252 has a curved cross-sectional profile transverse to the boot axis SAX. In a preferred arrangement, the outer edge surface portion 252 may have a profile or shape that is complementary to or otherwise corresponds to the end surface portion 158 of the inner layer 124 and / or the end surface portion 162 of the outer layer 126 of the structural body 108. The inner edge surface portion 254 extends axially between the end surface portions 248 and 250 and faces inward toward the opposing cured boot. The boot body wall 246 also includes side surface portions 256 and 258 that extend axially between the end surface portions 248 and 250 and laterally between the outer edge surface portion 252 and the inner edge surface portion 254. The side surface portions 256 and 258 have a curved cross-sectional profile transverse to the boot axis SAX, wherein the side surface portion 256 has a convex shape that may be complementary to or otherwise correspond to the concave surface portion 150 of the support structure 140, and the side surface portion 258 has a concave shape that may be complementary to or otherwise correspond to the convex surface portion 152 of the support structure 140.

[0044] It should be understood that the curing boots 242 and 244 can be operably supported on the support plate 238 and the fluid pressure transfer system 240, along the support plate and the fluid pressure transfer system, or otherwise supported between the support plate and the fluid pressure transfer system in any suitable manner. As a non-limiting example, the curing boot assembly 236 may include an actuating member 260 having a member axis RAX ( ) offset from the mold axis MAX. Figure 10 The actuating member 260 extends axially from end 262 along the support plate 238 toward end 264 spaced apart from end 262 and axially away from the support plate 238. In a preferred arrangement, the actuating member 260 may include one or more cylindrical rod portions 260R extending axially therein, which allow other components supported on or along the actuating member to rotate about the member axis RAX. End 262 of the actuating member 260 may be secured to or along the support plate 238 in any suitable manner. As a non-limiting example, the support plate 238 may include a plurality of holes or channels 266 into which end 262 of the actuating member 260 may extend at least partially for securing the actuating member to or along the support plate 238. The dimensions of end 264 of the actuating member 260 may be designed to cooperatively engage the fluid pressure transfer system 240 in the closed state of the mold assembly 200. As a non-limiting example, the fluid pressure transfer system 240 may include a plurality of orifices or channels 268, and the end portion 264 of the actuating member 260 may extend at least partially into the orifices or channels to provide axial and / or lateral support to the actuating member in the closed state of the mold assembly and to provide other operational features, as discussed below.

[0045] Curing boots 242 and 244 may be operatively connected to or along the actuating member 260 in any manner suitable for displacing the curing boots between extended and retracted positions, respectively corresponding to the actuated and de-actuated states of the curing boot assembly 236. For example, the curing boot assembly 236 may include boot mounts 270 operatively connected to the curing boots 242 and 244, such as by mounting rods 272 extending axially through channels 274 in the boot body wall 246 and channels 276 in the boot mounts 270 to pivotally connect each boot mount to its corresponding curing boot. In some cases, the boot mounts 270 may extend longitudinally between opposing ends 278 and 280, with channels 276 extending longitudinally between these opposing ends. In this arrangement, the elongated construction of the boot mount causes a pivotal connection between the curing boot and the boot mount, which are arranged such as by one or more mounting rods 272 spaced axially from each other. This helps to uniformly distribute the stretching forces acting on the boot mount along the surface portions 252, 256 and / or 258 of the curing boot, thereby helping to apply surface pressure approximately uniformly along the axial length of the wall and / or wall portion of the structural body 108.

[0046] It should be understood that stretching and / or retraction forces can be transferred through boot mount 270 to cured boots 242 and 244 in any suitable manner and / or through any suitable combination of components. As a non-limiting example, boot mount 270 may include one or more holes or channels extending therethrough in a direction transverse to the boot axis SAX. As a non-limiting example, boot mount 270 may include a hole or channel 282 extending therethrough along end 278 and a hole or channel 284 extending therethrough along end 280. In some cases, boot mount 270 may optionally include a hole or channel 286 extending therethrough, axially positioned between channels 282 and 284.

[0047] The curing boots 242 and 244, together with the boot mount 270 attached thereto, can be operatively connected to or along the actuating member 260 in any suitable manner. For example, the curing boot assembly 236 may include pivot yokes 288 and 290 supported on or along the rod portion 260R of the actuating member 260 and operatively connected to the boot mount 270 attached to the curing boot 242. Alternatively, the curing boot assembly 236 may include pivot yokes 292 and 294 supported on or along the rod portion 260R of the actuating member 260 and operatively connected to the boot mount 270 attached to the curing boot 244.

[0048] Although pivot yokes 288 to 294 are shown with slightly different geometries, in some cases, pivot yokes may have substantially similar wall and / or wall portion configurations. For example, pivot yokes 288 to 294 may include a yoke wall 296 comprising a sleeve wall portion 298 and a flange wall portion 300 extending radially outward from the sleeve wall portion. In some cases, the sleeve wall portions 298 may be axially spaced apart from each other, wherein the flange wall portions 300 are operatively connected to the sleeve wall portions such that a space (not numbered) is included between the axially spaced sleeve wall portions. In this case, pivot yokes 288 and 292 may optionally be axially engaged with each other, and / or pivot yokes 290 and 294 may optionally be axially engaged with each other. In any case, the sleeve wall portion 298 at least partially defines a passage (unnumbered) through the yoke wall 296, the passage being sized to extend along the rod portion 260R of the actuating member 260 such that the pivot yokes 288 to 294 are pivotable or otherwise rotatable about the member axis RAX relative to the actuating member and relative to each other. One or more holes or channels oriented transversely to the member axis RAX may extend through the flange wall portions of the pivot yokes 288 to 294. For example, pivot yokes 288 and 292 are shown as including holes or channels 302 extending through their flange wall portions. However, pivot yokes 290 and 294 are shown as including multiple holes or channels 304 and 306 extending through their flange wall portions. However, it should be understood that other constructions and / or arrangements may be used alternatively.

[0049] Pivot yokes 288 and 290 are supported separately on or along the rod portion 260R of the actuating member. Thus, pivot yokes 288 and 290 can be axially displaced toward and away from each other on or along the rod portion. Similarly, pivot yokes 292 and 294 are supported separately on or along the rod portion 260R of the actuating member. Thus, pivot yokes 292 and 294 can be axially displaced toward and away from each other on or along the rod portion. When pivot yokes 288 and 292 are engaged with each other and / or pivot yokes 290 and 294 are engaged with each other, as discussed above, it should be understood that pivot yokes 288 and 292 will move axially together and / or pivot yokes 290 and 294 will move axially together, such as during the actuation and / or de-actuation of the curing boot assembly.

[0050] The boot mount 270 can be pivotally connected to the flange wall portions 300 of the pivot yokes 288 to 294 in any suitable manner, such as by one or more linkage members pivotally attached between them. For example, the cured boot assembly 236 may include linkage members 308 that pivotally interconnect the flange wall portions 300 of the pivot yokes 288 and 292 with the corresponding boot mount 270. Linkage members 308 may include holes or channels 310 and 312 extending therethrough, respectively configured to be generally aligned with holes 282 and 302, such that pivot pins 314 and 316 may extend therethrough, respectively, to operatively connect the linkage members between the flange wall portions and the corresponding boot mounts. As another example, the cured boot assembly 236 may include linkage members 318 that pivotally interconnect the flange wall portions 300 of the pivot yokes 290 and 294 with the corresponding boot mount 270. Linkage member 318 may include holes or channels 320 and 322 extending therethrough, respectively configured to be generally aligned with holes 284 and 304, such that pivot pins 324 and 326 may extend therethrough to operably connect the linkage member between the flange wall portion and the corresponding shoe mount. As another example, the cured shoe assembly 236 may optionally include linkage members 328 that pivotally interconnect the flange wall portions 300 of pivot yokes 290 and 294 with the corresponding shoe mounts 270. Linkage member 328 may include holes or channels 330 and 332 extending therethrough, respectively configured to be generally aligned with holes 286 and 306, such that pivot pins 334 and 336 may extend therethrough to operably connect the linkage member between the flange wall portion and the corresponding shoe mount. In some cases, two or more link members (such as along opposite sides of the boot mount and the corresponding flange wall portion) may be used to provide additional strength and / or stability to the pivoting connection. However, it should be understood that this configuration is merely exemplary, and other configurations and / or arrangements may be used alternatively without departing from the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0051] The curing boot assembly 236 includes an actuator member 338 supported for axial displacement relative to actuator member 260, such that when actuator members 260 and 338 move relative to each other in a first axial direction (e.g., toward each other), pivot yokes 288 / 292 and 290 / 294 move relative to each other in a first axial direction (e.g., toward each other). This displacement is operable to switch curing boots 242 and 244 to an actuated state and a deacted state, to switch from an actuated state and a deacted state, and / or otherwise switch between an actuated state and a deacted state. It should be understood that at least the configuration and arrangement of linkage members 308 and 318 relative to each other can control whether the curing boot expands outward during movement of actuator members 260 and 338 toward or away from each other. For example, in the arrangement shown and described herein, linkage members 308 and 318 are arranged at an acute angle relative to each other, such as... Figure 10 The angle dimension AG1 is shown in the diagram. In this arrangement, with the curing shoe assembly 236 in the de-actuated state, holes 312 and 322 are spaced apart by a greater distance than holes 310 and 312. Therefore, when actuator members 260 and 338 are displaced toward each other, connecting rod members 308 and 318 rotate in opposite directions relative to each other, thereby forcing curing shoes 242 and 244 radially outward. When actuator members 260 and 338 are displaced away from each other, the curing shoes are pulled toward each other by the relative rotation of the connecting rod members.

[0052] As discussed above, the cure boot assembly 236 can be actuated and / or de-actuated by any suitable combination of one or more force applicators. For example, the mold assembly 200 and / or its gap-filling curing system 210 can be coupled, for example, in communication with a pressurized fluid source PFS. In this case, as the cure boot assembly selectively displaces between an extended position and a retracted position, such as corresponding to the actuated and de-actuated states of the cure boot assembly respectively, pressurized fluid (e.g., air, steam, water, oil) from the pressurized fluid source PFS can apply, balance, and / or otherwise control the forces applied to the cure boot assembly.

[0053] It will be understood that forces applied, balanced, and / or otherwise controlled by the pressurized fluid source PFS can be selectively applied, balanced, and / or otherwise transferred to and / or transferred from the curing boot assembly 236 in any suitable manner. In an exemplary arrangement, the actuator member 338 may include at least a substantially cylindrical inner surface portion such that the actuator member can be displaced coaxially and co-linearly (e.g., telescopically) on or along the rod portion 260R of the actuator member 260. The mold assembly 200 and / or the gap-filling curing system 210 may include a fluid pressure distribution system 240 in fluid communication with the pressurized fluid source PFS via conduit 206 and operatively associated with the actuator member 338 of the curing boot assembly 236. The fluid pressure distribution system 240 may include a substrate 342 that may be supported on or along the mold section 204. The fluid pressure distribution system 240 also includes an inner wall 344 and an outer wall 346 supported on a base plate 342, wherein the outer wall is radially spaced outward from the inner wall. An end wall 348 is supported on the inner wall 344 and the outer wall 346 such that a fluid chamber 350 is at least partially defined between the inner and outer walls. The fluid chamber 350 may be configured to be in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source in any suitable manner, such as, for example, via a conduit 206.

[0054] The fluid pressure distribution system 240 also includes a plurality of piston assemblies 352 supported along an end wall 348 in a peripherally spaced relationship. Piston assemblies 352 extend between a piston head portion 354 and a piston end portion 356. The piston assemblies 352 are supported on the end wall 348 such that the piston head portion 354 is configured to communicate fluidly with a fluid chamber 350, wherein the piston end portion 356 extends through the end wall and out of the fluid chamber 350. The piston end portion 356 may be operatively engaged in any suitable manner with one or more actuator members 338 of the curing boot assembly. As a non-limiting example, the curing boot assembly 236 may include an actuator cap body 358 operatively connected to one or more piston assemblies in the piston assembly 352, and may include orifices or channels 268 to which the ends 264 of the actuator members 338 and / or actuating members 260 may extend or otherwise operatively engage. In such an arrangement, a substantially uniform and / or otherwise balanced fluid pressure is applied to substantially all of the piston assemblies 352, which transfer substantially common and uniform actuation force to substantially all of the actuator cover bodies 358 and substantially all of the actuator components 338.

[0055] During use and operation, when mold sections 202 and 204 move toward each other, the actuator cover body 358 operably engages the actuator component 338 to displace the actuator component and the pivot yokes 288 to 294 toward each other along the component axis RAX, such as in Figure 9 This is indicated by arrow AR1. This displacement of pivot yokes 288 and 292 toward pivot yokes 290 and 294 causes the curing boots 242 and 244 to displace in the outward direction and / or otherwise toward the extended position, as shown by arrow AR1. Figure 9 and Figure 11 As indicated by arrow AR2, when actuator components 260 and 338, together with pivot yokes 288 to 294, are displaced away from each other along the component axis RAX, the cured shoe assembly 236 is de-actuated, and the cured shoes 242 and / or 244 can be returned to the retracted position, for example by means of a spring or other biasing member operably connected to the pivot yoke and / or shoe mount.

[0056] When pressure is applied to the partially cured pneumatic tire 100 via the curing boot assembly 236, the method according to the subject matter of the invention may further include applying heat to the partially cured pneumatic tire. It should be understood that heat can be transferred to the partially cured pneumatic tire 100 in any suitable manner and / or via any suitable combination of transfer mechanisms and / or processes. As an example, the mold assembly 200 may be communicatively connected to a heating fluid source HFS. In this case, the heating fluid (e.g., air, steam, water) may be circulated into any suitable combination of channels and / or chambers of the mold assembly 200. For example, the mold assembly 200 and / or the gap-filling curing system 210 may include a heated fluid distribution system 360 fluidly connected to the heating fluid source HFS.

[0057] The heating fluid distribution system 360 may include a substrate 362, which may be supported on or along the mold section 202. The heating fluid distribution system 360 may also include an inner sidewall 364 and an outer sidewall 366 supported on the substrate 362, wherein the outer sidewall is radially spaced outward from the inner sidewall. A support wall 238 may be supported on or along the inner sidewall 364 and / or the outer sidewall 366 to at least partially define a heating fluid chamber 368. In this arrangement, heating fluid can be transferred through and from the space 154 of the structural body 108 via channels 370 of the support plate 238, such as via conduit 208. In some cases, the boot body wall 246 of the curing boots 242 and / or 244 may include heat transfer channels 370 extending therethrough, which may be configured to be in fluid communication with the heating fluid distribution system 360.

[0058] Figure 12The diagram illustrates a manufacturing method 400 for manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire according to the subject matter of this disclosure. This manufacturing method may include: providing a mold section (such as, for example, one of mold sections 202 and 204) having a mold axis MAX, as shown in... Figure 12 The reference numeral 402 indicates the location. Method 400 may further include: supporting one or more curing boot assemblies (such as, for example, curing boot assembly 236) on a mold section in a radially offset relationship with the mold axis MAX, such as in... Figure 12 The reference numeral 404 denotes this. In a preferred arrangement, a plurality of curing boot assemblies 236 are arranged in a spaced-apart relationship around the mold axis MAX to at least partially form the gap-filling curing system 210. Method 400 may further include: providing an incompletely cured pneumatic tire 100, and positioning the incompletely cured pneumatic tire on or along a mold section arranged axially co-linearly with one or more curing capsule assemblies, such as in Figure 12 The reference numerals 406 and 408 are respectively used. Method 400 may further include: actuating one or more curing boot assemblies, and then curing a non-pneumatic tire, such as in… Figure 12 The numbers are denoted by reference numerals 410 and 412, respectively.

[0059] As used herein with reference to certain features, elements, components, and / or structures, numerical ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) may be used to indicate different individual features, elements, components, and / or structures among a plurality of others, or to otherwise identify certain features, elements, components, and / or structures, and do not imply any order or sequence unless expressly specified by the language of the claims. Furthermore, the terms “lateral,” etc., are interpreted broadly. For this reason, the term “lateral,” etc., may include a wide range of angular orientations, including but not limited to approximately perpendicular angular orientations. Additionally, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” etc., may be interpreted broadly, and they may include, but are not limited to, circular shapes and / or constructions. In this respect, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” etc., may be synonymous with terms such as “peripheral,” “outer periphery,” etc.

[0060] Furthermore, the phrase "flowing material joint," as used herein, can be interpreted to include any joint or connection in which a liquid or other flowable material (e.g., molten metal or a combination of molten metals) is arranged or otherwise presented between adjacent components to form a fixed and substantially fluid-impermeable connection therebetween. Examples of processes that can be used to form such flowing material joints include, but are not limited to, welding, brazing, and soldering processes. In such cases, one or more metallic materials and / or alloys may be used to form such flowing material joints, in addition to any material derived from the components themselves. Another example of a process that can be used to form flowing material joints includes applying, depositing, or otherwise presenting an adhesive between adjacent components to form a fixed and substantially fluid-impermeable connection therebetween. In such cases, it should be understood that any suitable adhesive material or combination of materials may be used, such as, for example, one-component and / or two-component epoxy resins.

[0061] It should be recognized that the embodiments shown and described herein illustrate many different features and / or components, and no single embodiment is explicitly shown and described as including all such features and components. Therefore, it should be understood that the subject matter of this disclosure is intended to cover any and all combinations of the different features and components shown and described herein, and that any suitable arrangement of features and components may be used without limitation in any combination. Therefore, it should be clearly understood that, whether specifically embodied herein or not, any such combination of features and / or components is intended to be supported by the claims in this disclosure. To assist the Patent Office and any reader of this application and any resulting patent for interpreting the appended claims, the applicant does not intend for any claim or any element of the appended claims to invoke 35 U.SC112(f), unless the terms “means for…” or “steps for…” are expressly used in a particular claim.

[0062] Therefore, although the subject matter of this disclosure has been described with reference to the foregoing embodiments and considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the structure and structured interrelationships between the components of the disclosed embodiments, it should be understood that other embodiments may be derived and many changes may be made to the illustrated and described embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. Clearly, modifications and alterations will be made to other aspects after reading and understanding the foregoing detailed descriptions. Therefore, it should be clearly understood that the foregoing descriptive issues are to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the subject matter of this disclosure and not as limiting. For this reason, it is intended that the subject matter of this disclosure be understood to include all such variations and modifications.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire, the method comprising: A curing boot assembly is supported on a first mold section having a longitudinally extending mold axis, wherein the curing boot assembly includes: The first actuating member is supported on the first mold section, such that the first actuating member is configured to be radially offset from the mold axis; The second actuating member is supported in a coaxial relationship with the first actuating member to allow axial displacement relative to the first actuating member; A first curing shoe, which is laterally spaced from the first actuating member and the second actuating member; and, A second curing boot, which is laterally spaced from the first and second actuating members in a direction opposite to that of the first curing boot, wherein the first and second curing boots are operatively connected to the first and second actuating members such that movement of the first and second actuating members relative to each other in a first axial direction causes the first and second curing boots to laterally displace away from each other, and movement of the first and second actuating members relative to each other in a second axial direction opposite to that of the first axial direction causes the first and second curing boots to laterally displace toward each other; A partially cured, non-pneumatic tire assembly is provided, the partially cured, non-pneumatic tire assembly comprising a plurality of support structures arranged peripherally spaced from each other and a plurality of spaces arranged peripherally spaced from each other, wherein one of the plurality of spaces is located between adjacent support structures in the plurality of support structures; Position the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire assembly along the first mold section, such that the cured boot assembly is disposed in one of the plurality of spaces and extends axially together with the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire assembly; The first actuating member and the second actuating member are displaced relative to each other along the first axial direction, thereby causing the first curing boot and the second curing boot to be laterally displaced away from each other to engage with the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire assembly and apply pressure thereto; and, The non-pneumatic tire assembly is cured.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising displacing the first actuating member and the second actuating member relative to each other in the second axial direction, thereby laterally pulling the first curing boot and the second curing boot toward each other, and removing the non-pneumatic tire assembly along the curing boot assembly.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire assembly includes introducing a heating fluid into one of the plurality of spaces, the cured boot assembly being positioned in the one space.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein displacing the first actuating member and the second actuating member along the first axial direction comprises operably engaging the second mold section with the second actuating member and displacing one of the first mold section and the second mold section toward the other of the first mold section and the second mold section.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the curing boot assembly is one of a plurality of curing boot assemblies arranged peripherally spaced from each other around the mold axis, and positioning the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire assembly along the first mold section includes positioning each of the plurality of spaces around different curing boot assemblies among the plurality of curing boot assemblies.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the second mold section includes a chamber containing a quantity of pressurized fluid, and operatively engaging the second mold section with the second actuating member includes applying a force to the second actuating member through the quantity of pressurized fluid.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the second mold section includes a piston in fluid communication with the amount of pressurized fluid, and applying force to the second actuating member includes operatively engaging the piston with the second actuating member.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: Supporting the curing boot assembly on the first mold section includes pivotally connecting a first first linkage member between the first actuating member and the first curing boot, and pivotally connecting a first second linkage member between the second actuating member and the first curing boot; and, Displace the first actuating member and the second actuating member relative to each other along the first axial direction includes rotating the first first linkage member relative to the first curing shoe along a first rotation direction and rotating the first second linkage member along a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction of the first first linkage member.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: Supporting the curing boot assembly on the first mold section includes pivotally connecting a second first linkage member between the first actuating member and the second curing boot, and pivotally connecting a second second linkage member between the second actuating member and the second curing boot; and, Displace the first actuating member and the second actuating member relative to each other along the first axial direction includes rotating the second first connecting member relative to the second curing shoe along a first rotation direction and rotating the second second connecting member along a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction of the second first connecting member.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first actuating member includes a first cylindrical surface portion and the second actuating member includes a second cylindrical surface portion, wherein the first actuating member and the second actuating member are telescopically engaged with each other such that the first cylindrical surface portion and the second cylindrical surface portion extend axially together with each other, and displacement of the first actuating member and the second actuating member along the first axial direction includes telescopically translating the first actuating member and the second actuating member relative to each other.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein providing the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire assembly comprises: A first annular ring having a longitudinal axis is provided, the first annular ring extending axially between a first annular end and a second annular end axially spaced apart from the first first annular end, the first annular ring including a first annular outer surface portion radially outwardly facing and disposed between the first first annular end and the second first annular end; and A first layer of incompletely cured elastomeric material is applied along at least a portion of the outer surface of the first annular ring.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein providing the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire assembly comprises: A second annular ring is provided, extending axially between a first second annular end and a second second annular end axially spaced from the first second annular end. The second annular ring includes a second annular inner surface portion radially inwardly facing and disposed between the first second annular end and the second second annular end. A second layer of incompletely cured elastomeric material is applied along at least a portion of the inner surface of the second annulus.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein providing the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire assembly comprises positioning the second annular ring concentrically and concurrently with the first annular ring.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein providing the incompletely cured non-pneumatic tire assembly includes providing a plurality of support structures, wherein each of the plurality of support structures includes a first support structure edge, a second support structure edge opposite to the first support structure edge, a first support structure end, and a second support structure end opposite to the first support structure end.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein providing the partially cured non-pneumatic tire assembly includes positioning the plurality of support structures in a peripherally spaced relationship about the longitudinal axis of the first annular ring, such that the first support structure ends of the plurality of support structures are spaced apart from each other along the first layer of the partially cured elastomeric material, and that the second support structure ends of the plurality of support structures are spaced apart from each other along the second layer of the partially cured elastomeric material.

16. A mold assembly for curing a non-pneumatic tire, the mold assembly comprising: A first mold section having a longitudinally extending mold axis; Curing boot assembly, the curing boot assembly being supported on the first mold section, the curing boot assembly comprising: The first actuating member is supported on the first mold section, such that the first actuating member is configured to be radially offset from the mold axis; The second actuating member is supported in a coaxial relationship with the first actuating member to allow axial displacement relative to the first actuating member; A first curing shoe, which is laterally spaced from the first actuating member and the second actuating member; and, The second curing shoe is laterally spaced from the first actuating member and the second actuating member in a direction opposite to that of the first curing shoe; The first curing boot and the second curing boot are operatively connected to the first actuating member and the second actuating member such that movement of the first actuating member and the second actuating member relative to each other in a first axial direction causes the first curing boot and the second curing boot to be laterally displaced away from each other, and movement of the first actuating member and the second actuating member relative to each other in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction causes the first curing boot and the second curing boot to be laterally displaced toward each other.

17. The mold assembly of claim 16, further comprising a second mold section displaceable relative to the first mold section, the second mold section comprising a chamber containing a certain amount of pressurized fluid.

18. The mold assembly of claim 17, wherein the second mold section includes a piston in fluid communication with the pressurized fluid, the piston being sized to operatively engage the second actuating member.

19. The mold assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the curing boot assembly comprises: A first linkage member is pivotally connected between the first actuating member and the first curing shoe; First and second linkage components are pivotally connected between the second actuating component and the first curing shoe; A second first linkage member is pivotally connected between the first actuating member and the second curing shoe; and A second link member is pivotally connected between the second actuating member and the second curing shoe.

20. The mold assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the first actuating member includes a first cylindrical surface portion and the second actuating member includes a second cylindrical surface portion, wherein the first actuating member and the second actuating member are telescopingly engaged with each other such that the first cylindrical surface portion and the second cylindrical surface portion extend axially together with each other.

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