Processing and equipment for labeling green tyres for bicycles

Abstract

The invention relates to a process and apparatus for labeling a green bicycle tire. The process comprises: - fitting a tire (2) around a support table (11); - positioning a tread joint (6a) carried by the tire (2) fitted around the support table (11) in a pressing area (23) arranged on the support table (11); - applying at least one label (32) on the tire (2); - pressing the tread joint (6a) during the application of the at least one label (32).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a process for labelling green tyres for bicycles. The invention also relates to an apparatus for labelling tyres for bicycles that can be used according to the above process, as well as to a construction process integrating the labelling process itself. Background Art

[0002] The terms “radial” and “axial” and the expressions “radially inner / outer” and “axially inner / outer” are used to refer to the radial and axial directions, respectively, of the tire, ie the directions perpendicular to and parallel to the tire's axis of rotation.

[0003] The terms "circumferential" and "circumferentially" are used alternatively with reference to the annular extension of the tire. Under normal operating conditions, this extension is circular, but during certain steps of the manufacturing process, the tire may assume a different configuration, in particular being flattened to have two mainly straight or arched segments interconnected by a U-shaped terminal segment. For the sake of simplicity, reference will also be made in these cases to the "circumferential extension", which expression denotes the extension assumed by the tire in operating conditions along the rolling direction.

[0004] The construction of bicycle tires typically provides for the application of one or more carcass plies according to a cylindrical configuration around the outer surface of a building drum. Each of a pair of bead cores is assembled or applied around one of the axially opposite end flaps of the carcass ply. The end flaps are then turned up around the respective bead core. A tread band, typically in the form of a strip of elastomeric material cut to size, is then applied and wound around the carcass ply, which has been laid against the building drum, in an axially centered position relative to the bead core. Between the axially opposite edges of the bead core and the tread band, appropriately spaced from the bead core itself, the opposite sides of the finished tire, in operating condition, can be identified.

[0005] At the end of winding, the opposite ends of the tread band slightly overlap and are joined to each other by a head-to-head joint.

[0006] The mutual axial distance between the bead cores remains constant throughout the entire building process, including the application of the tread band. This process aspect represents a unique characteristic that distinguishes bicycle tires from tires for motor vehicles. In fact, in tires for motor vehicles, a mutual approaching step of the bead cores is usually provided in order to shape the carcass structure according to the toroidal configuration during a coupling step associated with a belt structure having a diameter greater than that of the bead cores.

[0007] Once the building has been completed, the built green tire for bicycles is removed from the drum and transferred to a vulcanizing press to undergo a molding and vulcanization process with the purpose of determining the structural stability of the green tire through cross-linking of the elastomeric material present therein, and optionally embossing the desired tread design on the tread band.

[0008] After application of the tread band, a labelling process is usually required.

[0009] Such treatment, as can be seen for example in the videos https: / / youtu.be / e3sHyJKaFMo (timer from 15'20" to 15'50" - last seen on 17 / 12 / 2021) and https: / / youtu.be / TN1lrm79Bdg (timer from 4'30" to 4'50" - last seen on 17 / 12 / 2021), typically consists of a manual pressing action on the building drum at room temperature, or the application of heat at the end-to-end joint of the tread band to promote bonding and make the thickness uniform, and subsequently manually applying a label with a trademark and / or other identification or decorative markings in the sidewall area.

[0010] An example of a heat-adhesive label for a bicycle tire is described in JP-S57-70709.

[0011] KR-10-2016-0021923 describes a device for applying barcodes to green automobile tires, wherein a suction head picks up the barcode from a container to transfer it to a tire supported by a robot that has previously removed the tire from a building machine. Summary of the Invention

[0012] However, the applicant has noted that bicycle tires, especially when green, often do not have sufficient structural consistency to allow for proper manipulation thereof by mechanical means.

[0013] This is because bicycle tires are usually provided with bead cores of non-metallic materials, for example bead cores based on composite materials of natural or synthetic fibers (carbon, aramid, etc.), to allow folding of the finished tire. In addition, as mentioned above, bicycle tires usually do not have a reinforcing belt layer interposed between the carcass ply or plies and the tread band.

[0014] In particular, the Applicant has noticed that, once removed from the building drum, a green bicycle tyre tends to deform under the action of internal stresses and its own weight, and that this deformation occurs randomly and uncontrollably both in the circumferential direction (wherein the circular shape is lost due to the low resistance of the bead core) and in the direction of axial extension, due to the shrinkage of the material or the weight of its components.

[0015] For these reasons as well, the labeling process considered in the building cycle of bicycle tires is currently performed manually, without removing the tire from the building drum. During the performance of these operations, the building drum is adapted to impart the necessary stability to the tire being processed and to adequately counteract the thrust forces exerted on this tire during the pressing of the tread joints and the application of the label.

[0016] The Applicant has observed that the labelling process of bicycle tyres, performed prior to vulcanisation using known processes and equipment, tends to excessively increase the processing time and highlights some critical problems that may be found in its correct execution for product quality.

[0017] In particular, manually applying the labels and pressing the tread joints requires time and precision in order to maintain the quality characteristics of the product.

[0018] The Applicant has also observed that carrying out the labeling process on a green tire still mounted on the building drum involves a significant increase in the execution time of the processing cycle, especially when it is necessary to apply a certain number of labels to the same tire. Indeed, the pressing of the tread joint and the application of each label must be carried out successively, so the execution times of these two processes are added together before it is possible to remove the tire from the building drum and start building the next one.

[0019] The Applicant has therefore realised that by separating the pressing and labelling operations from the actual building operations and using dedicated equipment to carry out these operations, it is possible to overcome the drawbacks encountered above, in particular with regard to productivity and reproducibility of results.

[0020] Finally, the Applicant has discovered that by fitting the green tyre removed from the building drum onto a support table suitably equipped to keep the tyre extended, it is possible to apply one or more labels simultaneously, accurately and reproducibly while pressing the tread joints.

[0021] More particularly, the present invention relates to a process for labeling green tires for bicycles.

[0022] Preferably, provision is made for the tire to be assembled around a support table.

[0023] Preferably, provision is made for the tread engaging portion carried by the tire fitted around the support table to be positioned in a pressing area arranged on the support table.

[0024] Preferably, provision is made for at least one label to be applied to the tire.

[0025] Preferably, provision is made for pressing the tread joint during application of said at least one label.

[0026] In another aspect of the invention, the present invention is directed to a process for building tires for bicycles.

[0027] Preferably, provision is made for assembling the plurality of components on a building drum in order to manufacture the green tyre.

[0028] Preferably, provision is made for the labelling process to be carried out on the green tyres.

[0029] Preferably, provision is made for vulcanizing the tire.

[0030] Preferably, the labeling process is performed by implementing the labeling process according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0031] Another aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for labeling tires for bicycles.

[0032] Preferably, a support table is provided, which carries two mutually opposite facing surfaces, the periphery of which is delimited on a front side, a rear side opposite the front side and two respectively opposite end sides between the front side and the rear side.

[0033] Preferably, the support platform is configured to receive a green tire for a bicycle fitted thereabout and extending parallel to the front and rear sides.

[0034] Preferably, a presser is provided which is movable towards a pressing area carried by one of the counter-faces in order to press a tread engagement portion carried by a tire fitted around the support table.

[0035] Preferably, at least one labelling pad is provided, which is movable towards one of the facing surfaces in order to apply at least one label to a tyre fitted around the support table.

[0036] The Applicant believes that the engagement of the tire on the support table facilitates the application of one or more labels and the simultaneous pressing of the tread joint, thereby offering advantages in terms of precision of execution, reproducibility of results, and reduction of processing waste. Simultaneous pressing of the tire while applying one or more labels also allows a significant reduction in the time required for the labeling operation and an improvement in the precision with which the labeling operation is performed.

[0037] In at least one of the above aspects, convenient embodiments of the present invention may include one or more of the following preferred features.

[0038] Preferably, the action of pressing the tread engaging portion is performed by a presser pushed against the tire interposed between the presser and a support table.

[0039] Parameters related to temperature, force and the time that force is applied are easily controlled in order to obtain optimal and repeatable results.

[0040] Preferably, fitting the tyre comprises extending the tyre according to an elongated configuration in which the circumferential extension of the tyre has two main segments substantially parallel to each other, the two main segments being connected to each other by two U-shaped connecting segments.

[0041] This facilitates the automation of labeling and pressing, taking advantage of the existing space around the support table to install equipment for performing these operations.

[0042] Preferably, provision is also made for stretching the tyre by moving the U-shaped connecting segments away from each other before applying the at least one label.

[0043] Correct adhesion of the tyre against the support table is therefore facilitated, the support table being prepared to offer an effective seat for resisting the thrust exerted on the tyre, thus facilitating correct execution of the process.

[0044] Preferably, stretching the tyre comprises placing said main segments against respective opposite facing surfaces of a support table.

[0045] Preferably, stretching the tire includes moving at least one stretcher away from a respective end side of the support table.

[0046] According to the Applicant, it is thus possible to obtain greater adaptability of the process by adjusting the displacement of the stretcher according to the different circumferential dimensions of the tyres being processed, without causing any constructional complications.

[0047] Preferably, stretching the tire includes moving at least two stretchers away from respective opposite end sides of the support table.

[0048] This facilitates maintaining the centered positioning of the tire relative to the support table, thereby facilitating processing accuracy and quality.

[0049] Preferably, the support table has two respective opposite facing faces, each facing face operating in supporting abutment against one of the main segments of the extended tyre.

[0050] Thus, a reliable support can be provided for the two main segments of the tire in order to apply labels simultaneously in corresponding locations extending in the circumferential direction.

[0051] Preferably, the green tyre has two axially opposite beads, two sidewalls extending from the respective beads and a tread band axially interposed between the sidewalls and carrying the tread engagement portion.

[0052] Preferably, applying the at least one label comprises pressing a labelling mat against one of the main segments of the extended tyre.

[0053] Preferably, said at least one label is applied to at least one sidewall of the tyre.

[0054] Preferably, at least two labels are applied, each said label being located on a respective sidewall of the tyre.

[0055] Preferably, at least two labels are applied simultaneously to respective sidewalls of the tire.

[0056] Preferably, said at least two labels are each applied at one of the main segments of the extended tyre.

[0057] The simultaneous application of two labels at different locations on the same sidewall allows for a shorter labeling time, consistent with the time required to press the tread joint.

[0058] Preferably, the labels are applied to the respective side walls at different times.

[0059] According to the Applicant, it is therefore possible to obtain greater adaptability of the process by adjusting the displacement of the labelling mat transversely to the tyre according to the different width dimensions of the tyres being processed, without causing any constructional complications.

[0060] Preferably, the presser operates in thrust relationship against the tread engagement portion during application of the label on both sidewalls.

[0061] Thus, the pressing of the tread joint can be obtained for a longer time and at a lower temperature, so as to favour a better uniformity of the tread thickness, without triggering premature molecular cross-linking phenomena.

[0062] Preferably, provision is also made for producing an embossment in the tread band that is asymmetrical with respect to the axial midline plane of the tyre.

[0063] Thus, it is possible to emboss in the tread band an indication of the orientation adopted by the tyre during building, said indication being useful in establishing the orientation of the tyre itself for subsequent loading in the vulcanising press and / or any subsequent identification of the cause of any defects.

[0064] Preferably, the embossing is formed by the press during pressing.

[0065] Preferably, an attractive force relative to the support table is applied to each main segment of the extended tyre.

[0066] Thus, even along a main segment arranged downwardly with respect to a horizontally oriented support table, the positioning stability of the tire on the support table is favored.

[0067] Preferably, for at least one of the main segments, the suction force is applied by a pumping action.

[0068] Preferably, applying the label comprises interposing at least one labelling tape carrying said label between a labelling mat and a tyre mounted on the support table.

[0069] Preferably, the label is applied by heat transfer from a labelling tape to the tyre.

[0070] Preferably, the green tyre on the building drum has a substantially cylindrical toroidal shape.

[0071] Preferably, the labelling process is at least partially carried out during assembly of the annular components of another tyre on the building drum.

[0072] Since the time required for the labeling operation is buried in the execution of the build of the next tire, the cycle time required to complete the build of each tire is significantly shortened. During the processing of the next tire on the build drum, the operator in charge of the build can also be responsible for transferring the tire to the support table.

[0073] Preferably, at least two labelling pads are provided which are movable on respective opposite sides in order to apply at least two labels simultaneously along the circumferential extension of the tyre, each of said labelling pads being directed towards one of the facing faces of the support table.

[0074] Preferably, the support table comprises at least one stretcher movable away from one of the end sides in order to stretch the tyre fitted around the support table.

[0075] Preferably, the support table includes two stretchers, each of which is movable away from and toward one of the end sides.

[0076] Preferably, the at least one stretcher comprises at least one roller rotatably coupled to a carriage movable relative to the support table.

[0077] Preferably, a synchronized movement mechanism is provided, which operates between the stretchers in order to move said stretchers simultaneously and symmetrically with respect to the respective end sides.

[0078] Preferably, a bearing structure is also provided which cantilever-supports the support table near the rear side.

[0079] Preferably, at least one of the facing surfaces has a longitudinal receiving seat extending perpendicularly to the end side.

[0080] Preferably, the longitudinal housing seat has a front shoulder and a rear shoulder configured to each act against a bead of a tire fitted around the support table.

[0081] Preferably, at least one movement actuator is further provided, which operates the support table to move the support table parallel to the end side relative to the support structure.

[0082] Preferably, the support table is positionable in a first working position in which the support table is close to the load-bearing structure.

[0083] Preferably, the support table is positionable in a loading-unloading position in which the support table is moved away from the carrier structure.

[0084] Preferably, the support table is positionable in a second working position in which the support table is located between the first working position and the loading-unloading position.

[0085] Preferably, in the first working position, the pressing area is positioned along the movement path of the presser.

[0086] Preferably, each of the longitudinal receiving seats comprises a first lateral portion and a second lateral portion, said first lateral portion and said second lateral portion being located on respective opposite sides relative to the longitudinal centerline.

[0087] Preferably, the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion are located adjacent to the front shoulder and the rear shoulder, respectively.

[0088] Preferably, in the first working position, the second lateral portion is positioned along a movement trajectory of the at least one labelling pad.

[0089] Preferably, in the second working position, the second lateral portion is positioned along a movement trajectory of the at least one labelling pad.

[0090] Preferably, in the loading-unloading position the longitudinal receiving seat is moved away from a path of movement of the at least one labelling mat.

[0091] Preferably, the presser is movable together with the support table between a first working position and a second working position.

[0092] It is thus possible to keep the presser active on the tread joint even during the movement of the support table from the first position to the second position and during the successive application of the labels on the two sidewalls.

[0093] Preferably, the presser is mounted at the end of the thrust actuator.

[0094] Preferably, the presser engages a slide which is movable along a guide structure fixed relative to the carrier structure.

[0095] Preferably, the slide is movable parallel to the distal end side of the support table.

[0096] Preferably, the presser has a marking matrix facing the support table.

[0097] Preferably, the facing surfaces of the support table are oriented horizontally.

[0098] Preferably, a suction nozzle is also provided, emerging from at least one of the facing surfaces and being activatable for holding the tyre against the support table.

[0099] Preferably, a return element is further provided for guiding the at least one labeling tape inserted between the labeling mat and the support table. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0100] Further features and advantages will become more apparent from the detailed description of a preferred but not exclusive embodiment of a process for labeling green tires for bicycles, of an apparatus which can advantageously be used for labeling bicycle tires according to said process, and of a building process according to the invention integrating the same labeling process.

[0101] Such description is given below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are for illustration only and are therefore non-limiting, in which:

[0102] Figure 1 Schematically shows a diameter section of a green tire for a bicycle assembled on a building drum;

[0103] Figure 2 schematically shows a front view of a labelling apparatus according to the invention in an operating step in which a green tyre being processed is to be assembled around a support table;

[0104] Figure 3 The perspective view schematically shows Figure 2 equipment;

[0105] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 and Figure 3 a perspective view of the apparatus in a subsequent step with the tire extended against the support table;

[0106] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 a perspective view of the apparatus in a subsequent step in which a pressing pad is operated against a tread engagement portion while two pairs of tags approach the tire on opposite sides of a support table;

[0107] Figure 6 Shown Figure 5 Magnified details;

[0108] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an apparatus having two labeling pads that act against a tire to apply a label;

[0109] Figure 8 schematically shows a perspective view of the apparatus during preparation of a tire for application of a second label;

[0110] Figure 9 schematically shows a perspective view of the apparatus during application of a second label;

[0111] Figure 10 Shows relative to Figures 2 to 9 Example of a press viewed from below;

[0112] Figure 11 A radial cross-section of a finished bicycle tire is schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0113] With reference to the aforementioned figures, reference numeral 1 generally designates a labelling apparatus for bicycle tyres, which can be advantageously used to carry out the labelling process according to the present invention.

[0114] The present invention is designed to process Figure 11 The tyre 2 for a bicycle of the type shown schematically is a tyre for use on a road bicycle, a track bicycle, a mountain bicycle, an electric bicycle or the like.

[0115] A radially inner surface 2 can be identified in the tire 2, which is substantially facing the geometrical axis of rotation X of the tire 2. i and a radially outer surface Se that is substantially facing away from the geometrical axis of rotation X.

[0116] The tyre 1 for a bicycle has a carcass structure 3 comprising at least one carcass ply 4 having mutually parallel cords embedded in an elastomeric matrix.

[0117] The axially opposite end flaps 4a of one or more carcass plies 4 are joined to corresponding bead cores 5, which are annular anchoring structures integrated in the area generally identified by the name "bead" 5a, where the mechanical engagement between the tire 2 in use condition and the corresponding mounting rim occurs.

[0118] A tread band 6 made of elastomeric material is applied in a radially outer position with respect to the carcass structure 3 .

[0119] Preferably, at least two layers of cords each having a cross pattern can be identified in the carcass structure 3. For example, there can be provided the presence of two carcass plies 4, radially superposed, each of said carcass plies having respective cords extending along an oblique direction of development relative to the circumferential direction of the tire 2 and following an oblique orientation relative to the cords belonging to the other carcass ply 4. Alternatively, as Figure 11 As shown, a single carcass ply 4 may be provided, the end flaps 4a of which are turned up around the bead core 5 and extend beyond the axial midline plane M of the tire 2 so as to each define a respective cord layer having a cross orientation relative to the cords present in adjacent layers.

[0120] Unlike tyres usually designed for use on motor vehicles, tyres 2 for bicycles generally do not have a belt structure, which is a reinforcement belt layer radially interposed between the carcass structure 3 and the tread band 6. In tyres for motor vehicles, these belt layers contribute to increasing the structural strength of the tyre 2 and stabilizing its geometry, especially in the crown region, i.e. in the radially outer region closer to the tread band 6.

[0121] However, in a tyre 2 for bicycles, at least one circumferential protective layer 7 may be provided, the task of which is essentially to protect the tyre 2 against punctures, said circumferential protective layer being interposed between the tread band 6 and the carcass structure 3 .

[0122] On the radially outer surface S of the bicycle tire 2 e On the tread band 6, between the axially outer edge and the bead core 5, a corresponding sidewall 8 can be identified, which is preferably defined by the portion of the carcass ply 4 directly exposed to the external environment. In fact, the bicycle tire 2 usually does not have an elastomeric coating applied at the sidewall 8.

[0123] like Figure 1 As schematically shown in the figure, the building of a bicycle tire 2 provides for the sequential assembly on a building drum 9 of various annular components, namely one or more carcass plies 4, bead cores 5, tread band 6, etc., which are not described in detail since they can be achieved in a known manner.

[0124] More particularly, provision is preferably made for depositing the carcass ply or plies 4 in a cylindrical configuration, for example by winding around the outer surface of the building drum 9 .

[0125] Bead cores 5, for example made of a composite material based on natural or synthetic fibers and / or metallic material, are applied at a predetermined mutual axial distance D, each of said bead cores surrounding one of the axially opposite end flaps 4a of the carcass ply 4, for example each of said bead cores being located in a circumferential recess 10 arranged on the building drum 9.

[0126] The end flaps 4a of the carcass ply(s) 4 are then turned up around the respective bead cores 5. During the turning up, the end flaps 4a may at least partially overlap each other and optionally be joined in direct contact with each other.

[0127] The tread band 6 is then applied around the carcass ply 4 in an axially centered position relative to the bead core 5. The tread band, preferably made in the form of an extruded strip and cut to size, is preferably wound one complete turn around the building drum. When winding is completed, the opposite ends of the tread band are joined together, forming a head-to-head joint, which will be referred to hereinafter as the "tread joint" and will be Figure 4 It is marked with reference numeral 6a.

[0128] If desired, said at least one circumferential protective layer 7 may be applied before application of the tread band 6 .

[0129] The tread band 6 is preferably applied while keeping the mutual axial distance D of the bead cores 5 almost constant. More particularly, the mutual axial distance D between the bead cores 5 is preferably kept constant during the entire assembly process including the application of the tread band 6. During the application of the tread band 6, an axially central portion of said at least one carcass ply 4 rests against the building drum 9, said axially central portion extending axially through an axial midline plane M ( Figure 1 ).

[0130] When building is completed, the green tyre 2 is therefore in the form of a substantially cylindrical annular band and can be removed from the building drum 9 after any radial shrinkage thereof, in order to subsequently undergo a labelling process according to the invention.

[0131] Since it has no belt structure and generally comprises a bead core 5 made of natural or synthetic fibers (carbon, aramid, etc.), the bicycle tire 2 tends to deform spontaneously or very easily under its own weight once it is removed from the building drum 9. Consequently, after removal from the building drum 9, the circumferential extension of the tire 2 loses its circular shape, thus exhibiting a deformed extension depending on the manipulations to which it has been subjected.

[0132] The device 1 comprises a support 11 carrying two mutually opposed facing surfaces 12 arranged parallel to each other according to a preferred horizontal orientation. The facing surfaces 12 are peripherally delimited by a front side 13, a rear side 14 opposite the front side 13, and two end sides 15, respectively opposite and each extending between the front side 13 and the rear side 14.

[0133] The support table 11 is preferably cantilevered relative to a column or other fixed support structure 16 , for example by means of guide rods 17 extending between the same support structure 16 and the aforementioned rear side 14 .

[0134] At least one motor or other movement actuator 18 with an electric or fluidic drive operates the support table 11 to move it relative to the support structure 16 along guide rods 17 parallel to the end side 15 .

[0135] At least one, and preferably at both, of the end sides 15, a tensioner 19 operates, said tensioner comprising one or more rollers 19a rotatably coupled to a bracket 19b movable relative to the support table 11. Each tensioner 19 is movable parallel to the extension of the counterface 12 towards and away from the support table 19, for example by a tensioning actuator (not shown). Preferably, a synchronization mechanism operates between the tensioners in order to move them simultaneously and symmetrically relative to the respective end sides 15. This synchronization mechanism is not shown or described in detail, as it can be implemented in various ways and may, for example, comprise a rack meshing with a toothed pinion, a double-threaded right-hand / left-hand screw driven in rotation by a tensioning actuator, a cable tie rod engaged around a return element, or other motion-constraining elements, in order to synchronize the movements of the tensioners associated with one and the other of the end sides 15.

[0136] On at least one of the facing faces 12, and preferably on both facing faces, at least one longitudinal housing portion 20 is defined, extending perpendicularly to the terminal side 15 and / or parallel to the rear side 14 and the front side 13. Preferably, this longitudinal housing portion 20 is delimited between a front shoulder 21 and a rear shoulder 22 facing respectively the front side 13 and the rear side 14 of the support table 11. The front shoulder 21 and the rear shoulder 22 can be obtained on one or more interchangeable inserts, so as to allow the device to be quickly adapted to the treatment of tires of different widths.

[0137] The support table 11 is suitable for receiving a green tyre 2 removed from the building drum 9. To this end, a mobile actuator 18 brings the support table 11 into a loading-unloading position in which it is moved away from the carrying structure 16. In this case, the stretchers 19 are preferably close to the respective end sides 15 so that the green tyre 2 can be easily assembled around the support table 11, for example manually by an operator in charge of managing and supervising the assembly operations carried out on the building drum 9.

[0138] During this operation, the tire 2 is stretched according to an elongated configuration in which its circumferential extension has two main segments 2a that are substantially parallel to each other, arranged along the facing surfaces 12 and connected to each other by two U-shaped connecting segments 2b that extend around the respective end sides 15.

[0139] The operator will be responsible for positioning the main segments 2a of the tire 2 assembled around the support table 11 inside the longitudinal housing seats 20. Thus, the front shoulder 21 and the rear shoulder 22 of each longitudinal housing seat 20 each act along the corresponding main segment 2a against one of the beads 5a of the tire 2 so as to promote a stable and predetermined positioning on the support table 11.

[0140] The operator will also be responsible for positioning the tread engaging portion 6a carried by the tire 2 in a pressing area 23 arranged on the support table 11, for example in the vicinity of one of the ends of the longitudinal housing seat 20 carried by the upward facing face 12. This pressing area 23 can be conveniently indicated by a marking provided on the facing face 12.

[0141] The stretchers 19 can then be pushed and simultaneously moved away from the respective end sides 15 of the support table 11 to fully stretch the tire 2 by moving the U-shaped connecting segments 2b away from each other. As a result, the main segments 2a are brought into contact with the respective opposite facing surfaces 12 of the support table 11. In particular, the lower main segments 2a initially assume an arched shape due to their own weight, and then assume a substantially straight shape, like the upper main segments 2a located on the support table 11.

[0142] The synchronized movement of the stretchers 19 helps to maintain a stable positioning of the tire 2 , with the tread engaging portions 6 a correctly positioned on the pressing areas 23 .

[0143] The attraction force generated on the main segments 2a can help the tire 2 to rest stably on the support table 11. This attraction force can be conveniently generated by a suction action. In this regard, a suction nozzle 24 can be provided, which exposes at least one of the facing surfaces 12, preferably distributed along the corresponding longitudinal receiving seat 20, and can be activated to hold the tire 2 against the support table 11. As an illustrative example, Figure 3 The suction nozzles 24 are schematically shown facing upward from the counterface 12. However, the suction nozzles 24 are preferably provided at least on the counterface 12 facing downward, in order to prevent the corresponding main segment 2a from moving away from the longitudinal receiving seat 20 due to its own weight. Before, after, or during the movement of the stretcher 19 that determines the tensioning of the tire 2, the support table 11 is moved along the guide rods 17 from the loading / unloading position to a first working position in which the support table is close to the support structure 16. In this first working position, the pressing area 23 is positioned together with the tire 2 along the movement path of the preferably heated press 25.

[0144] The presser 25 is preferably mounted at the end of a thrust actuator 26, for example in the form of a fluid cylinder. Preferably, the thrust actuator 26 is in turn mounted on a slide 27 movable parallel to the guide rod 17 along a guide structure 28 fixed relative to the carrier structure 16.

[0145] Under the action of the thrust actuator 26, the presser 25 is adapted to move and push toward the pressing area 23 carried by the support table 11, so as to press the tread joint 6a carried by the tire 2 assembled around the support table 11. The combined action of the pressing and heating applied by the presser 25 allows the tread joint 6a to be reinforced and the thickness to be uniform.

[0146] like Figure 10 As shown, the presser 25 is preferably also provided with a matrix 29 of markings of the tread engagement portion 6a. The matrix 29 of markings, facing the support table 11, allows the creation of an impression (not visible in the figures) on the surface of the tread band 6 that is asymmetrical with respect to the axial centerline M of the tire 2 and that indicates the orientation that the tire itself has assumed during the building process. For example, this impression may be in the form of an arrow pointing towards the support structure 16, indicating that the bead 5a was located on the left side of the building drum 9 during the previous component assembly step.

[0147] Each of the longitudinal housing seats 20 comprises a first lateral portion 20 a and a second lateral portion 20 b located on respective opposite sides relative to a longitudinal midline corresponding to the axial midline plane M and close to the front shoulder 21 and the rear shoulder 22. The first lateral portion 20 a and the second lateral portion 20 b correspond respectively to one and the other of the sidewalls 8 of the tire 2 assembled around the support platform 11.

[0148] The apparatus 1 further comprises at least one labelling pad 30. Preferably, two labelling pads 30 are provided, which are located above and below the support table 11, respectively, ie each labelling pad faces one of the facing surfaces 12.

[0149] The labeling pads 30 are each movable on respective opposite sides towards the respective facing surfaces 12 so as to apply at least two labels 32 simultaneously along the circumferential extension of the tire 2, and are each preferably controlled by a labeling actuator 31, for example in the form of a fluid-powered cylinder fixed to the supporting structure 16.

[0150] The labels 32 applied by each labeling mat 30 are preferably carried by a corresponding labeling tape 33 having an entry section 33a from a reel or other feed member (not shown) and an exit section 33b connected to a reel or other collection body (not shown). Each labeling tape 33 is suitably guided by a return element 34 along a path passing between the corresponding labeling mat 30 and the support table 11.

[0151] At least the return element 34 can be moved, for example, by a control actuator 35 operating a support plate 36, between a rest position in which it is moved away from the support table 11 and an operating position. Figures 2 to 4 and Figure 8 ), in the working position, the return element brings the belt close to the support table 11 ( Figures 5 to 7 and Figure 9 ), preferably with the belt resting against the tire 2 mounted on a support table.

[0152] When the support table 11 is in the first working position, the first lateral portion 20 a of each longitudinal housing seat 20 and therefore the corresponding sidewall 8 of the tyre 2 is positioned along the movement path of the labelling mat 30 towards the corresponding facing surface 12 of the support table 11 .

[0153] Thus, after the labeling tape 33 may have approached the tyre 2 , the activation of the labeling mat 30 may be controlled to ensure simultaneous application of at least two labels 32 along the sidewall 8 adjacent the front shoulder 21 at the first lateral portion 20a of each longitudinal seat.

[0154] The pressure exerted by the labeling mat 30, which is preferably heated and pressed against the main segments 2a of the tire 2, causes the labels 32 to be thermally transferred from the labeling tape 33 to the sidewall 8 of the tire 2 itself. Thus, at least two labels 32 are applied simultaneously to the same sidewall 8 of the tire 2, each label being located at one of the main segments 2a.

[0155] This operation may conveniently take place simultaneously with the action of the presser 25 on the tread engaging portion 6a.

[0156] Once application of the label 32 to the side wall 8 disposed adjacent the front shoulder 21 is complete, the labeling pad 30 and the corresponding labeling tape 33 are moved away from the support table 11 .

[0157] Therefore, the support table 11 can be moved from the first working position to a second working position between the first working position and the loading / unloading position. Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown.

[0158] At the same time, activation of the feed member and the collection member causes the labelling belt 33 to slide to position a new label 32 along the movement path of the corresponding labelling mat 30 .

[0159] In the second working position, the second lateral portion 20b of each of the longitudinal housing seats 20 and therefore the corresponding sidewall 8 located at the rear shoulder 22 are positioned along the movement path of the labeling mat 30 towards the corresponding facing surface 12 of the support table 11. A new actuation of the labeling mat 30 towards the tire 2, against the labeling tape 33 interposed between the tire and the mat itself, causes a further label 32 to be transferred to the sidewall 8 of the tire 2 located at the rear shoulder 22. Thus, at least two labels 32 are each applied at different times to the corresponding sidewall 8 of the tire 2 (two pairs of labels 32 in the example described here).

[0160] Provision can expediently be made for the pushing action of the presser 25 on the tread engaging portion 6 a to be maintained during the application of the label 32 on the two side walls 8 .

[0161] In this respect, the presser 25, free to translate along the respective guide structure 28 and pressing against the tread band 6, is itself adapted to be dragged in the movement of the support table 11 so as to move together with the latter between the first and second working positions.

[0162] Once application of the label 32 is complete, the presser 25 and the pad are moved away from the support table 11 and the support table returns to the loading-unloading position to facilitate removal of the tire 2 after bringing the stretcher 19 close to the end side 15 of the support table 11 .

[0163] Provision may conveniently be made that the above-described labelling process is at least partially carried out during assembly of the ply(s) 4 , bead cores 5 , tread band 6 and / or other annular components of another tyre 2 on the building drum 9 .

[0164] When the support table 11 returns to the loading / unloading position, the longitudinal housing seat 20 moves away from the movement path of the presser 25 and the labelling mat 30. Once released from the tyre 2 provided with a label, the support table 11 is adapted to receive a new tyre 2 assembled during the previous labelling process and removed from the building drum 9, so as to subject this new tyre in turn to a new labelling cycle.

[0165] The tyre 2 provided with the label 32 and removed from the support table 11 is suitable for being loaded into a vulcanisation mould and subjected to a moulding and vulcanisation process in which the molecular structure of the tyre is stabilised by the combined action of compression and heat.

[0166] When the tire 2 is loaded into the curing mold, the tire 2 can be oriented so that the arrow (or other embossing produced by the press 25) faces a predetermined direction, such as upward. During the molding and curing steps, the arrow or other type of embossing will disappear as the normal pressing of the tire 2 is performed, but the clear orientation of the tire within the mold will help identify the source of any defects found during subsequent inspection after curing is completed.

Claims

1. A method of labeling a green tire for a bicycle, the method comprising: assembling a green tire (2) around a support table (11) carrying two mutually opposite facing surfaces (12) arranged parallel to each other and having a periphery defined by a front side (13), a rear side (14) opposite the front side (13), and two end sides (15) respectively opposite and each extending between the front side (13) and the rear side (14); positioning a tread engaging portion (6a) carried by the green tire (2) assembled around the support table (11) in a pressing area (23) arranged on the support table (11); applying at least one label (32) to the green tire (2); The tread engaging portion (6a) is pressed during application of the at least one label (32).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein The action of pressing the tread joint portion (6a) is performed by a presser (25) that pushes against the green tire (2), the green tire being interposed between the presser (25) and the support table (11).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Assembling the green tyre (2) comprises extending the green tyre (2) according to an elongated configuration in which the circumferential extension of the green tyre (2) has two main segments (2a) that are substantially parallel to each other and are connected to each other by two U-shaped connecting segments (2b).

4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising stretching the green tire (2) by moving the U-shaped connecting segments (2b) away from each other before applying the at least one label (32).

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein Stretching the green tire (2) includes moving at least one stretcher (19) away from a respective end side of the support table (11).

6. The method according to claim 3, wherein: Each of the facing surfaces operates against one of the main segments (2a) of the extended green tire (2).

7. The method according to claim 3, wherein: Applying the at least one label (32) comprises pressing a labeling mat (30) against one of the main segments (2a) of the extended green tire (2).

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: At least two labels (32) are applied, each of said labels (32) being applied to a respective sidewall (8) of said green tire (2).

9. The method according to claim 3, wherein: At least two labels (32) are applied simultaneously on respective sidewalls (8) of the green tire (2), each of the labels being located at one of the two main segments (2a) of the extended green tire (2).

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein The application of the labels (32) to the respective side walls (8) occurs at respectively different times.

11. The method according to claim 2, wherein: At least two labels (32) are applied, each of the labels (32) being applied to a respective sidewall (8) of the green tire (2), wherein the presser (25) operates in a thrust relationship to the tread engaging portion (6a) during application of the labels (32) to both sidewalls (8).

12. Method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising producing on the tread band (6) an asymmetric embossing relative to the axial midline plane (M) of the green tyre (2).

13. The method according to claim 3, wherein: On each of the main segments (2a) of the extended green tire (2), an attractive force is applied relative to the support table (11).

14. A method for building a tire for a bicycle, the method comprising: Assembling a plurality of components on a building drum (9) in order to manufacture a green tire (2); performing a labeling process on the green tire (2); vulcanizing the green tire (2); Wherein, the labeling process is performed according to the method of any of the preceding claims.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein The labelling process is at least partially performed during the assembly of annular parts of another green tyre (2) on the building drum (9).

16. An apparatus for labeling green tires for bicycles, the apparatus comprising: a support platform (11) carrying two opposing faces (12) opposite to each other and peripherally delimited by a front side (13), a rear side (14) opposite to the front side, and two corresponding opposite end sides (15) located between the front side (13) and the rear side (14), the support platform (11) being configured to receive a green tire (2) for a bicycle, the green tire being fitted around the support platform and extending parallel to the front side (13) and the rear side (14); a presser (25) movable towards a pressing area (23) carried by one of the counter surfaces (12) in order to press a tread engagement portion (6a) carried by the green tire (2) assembled around the support table (11); At least one labeling pad (30) is movable towards one of the facing surfaces (12) in order to apply at least one label (32) to the green tire (2) assembled around the support table (11).

17. Apparatus according to claim 16, comprising at least two labelling pads (30) movable on respective opposite sides in order to apply simultaneously at least two labels (32) along the circumferential extension of the green tyre (2), each of said labelling pads being directed towards one of said facing faces (12) of said support table (11).

18. The apparatus according to claim 16 or 17, wherein The support table (11) comprises at least one stretcher (19) movable away from one of the end sides (15) in order to stretch the green tire (2) fitted around the support table (11).

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein The support table (11) comprises two stretchers (19), each of which is movable away from and towards one of the end sides (15).

20. The device according to claim 19, further comprising a synchronous movement mechanism operating between the stretchers (19) in order to move the stretchers simultaneously and symmetrically with respect to the respective end sides (15).

21. The apparatus according to claim 16 or 17, wherein At least one of the facing surfaces (12) has a longitudinal receiving seat (20) extending perpendicularly to the end side (15).

22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein The longitudinal receiving seat (20) has a front shoulder (21) and a rear shoulder (22) configured to act respectively against a bead (5a) of the green tire (2) assembled around the support table (11).

23. The apparatus according to claim 16 or 17, wherein The support table (11) is positionable in at least one first working position, in which the support table is close to a carrying structure (16), and in a loading-unloading position, in which the support table is moved away from the carrying structure (16).

24. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein The support table (11) is positionable in a second working position in which the support table is located between the first working position and the loading-unloading position.

25. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein Each of the longitudinal receiving seats (20) includes a first lateral portion (20a) and a second lateral portion (20b), the first lateral portion and the second lateral portion being located on respective opposite sides relative to the longitudinal centerline.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein: The support table (11) is positionable in at least one first working position, in which the support table is close to the carrying structure (16), and in a loading-unloading position, in which the support table moves away from the carrying structure (16), wherein in the first working position the first lateral portion (20a) is positioned along a movement trajectory of the at least one labeling pad (30).

27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein: The support table (11) is positionable in a second working position, in which the support table is located between the first working position and the loading-unloading position, wherein in the second working position the second lateral portion (20b) is positioned along a movement trajectory of the at least one labeling pad (30).

28. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein: The support table (11) is positionable in a second working position in which the support table is located between the first working position and the loading-unloading position, wherein the presser (25) is movable together with the support table (11) between the first working position and the second working position.

29. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein: The presser (25) engages a slide (27) which is movable along a guide structure (28) fixed relative to the carrier structure (16).

30. The apparatus of claim 16 or 17, wherein The presser (25) has a marking matrix (29) facing the support table (11).

31. Apparatus according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising a suction nozzle (24) exposed from at least one of said facing surfaces (12) and activatable for holding said green tyre (2) against said support table (11).

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