Cutting device and method for cutting tire components

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cutting device and a method for cutting a tire component wherein the cutting device comprises a conveyor defining a conveying plane wherein the cutting device comprises a lifting beam for lifting the tire component upwards from the conveying plane in a lifting direction, the cutting device is provided with a cutter for cutting the tire component along a cutting line which intersects the lifting beam at an inclined cutting angle at a cutting center, and wherein the cutting device is provided with a first downward holding unit for holding the tire component downward toward the conveyor in a downward holding direction opposite to the lifting direction, the first downward holding unit includes a contact member for holding the tire component downward toward the conveyor in a downward holding direction at a first downward holding position within a downward holding radius less than one hundred fifty millimeters from the cutting center.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cutting device and a method for cutting tire components, in particular breaker layers, for manufacturing unvulcanized tires or green tires. Background Art

[0002] WO 2008 / 105655 A2 discloses a cutting device for cutting rubber components for green tape. The cutting device comprises a roller conveyor for conveying the rubber components in a conveying direction. The roller conveyor comprises a plurality of conveying rollers which are substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. The cutting device comprises a cutter for cutting the rubber components at an oblique angle to the conveying direction, wherein the cutting device is provided with a lifting beam extending transversely to the conveying direction between two conveying rollers. The lifting beam is vertically movable in order to lift the rubber components.

[0003] In order to be able to correctly convey the rubber component on the roller conveyor and to hold it in position, pressure rollers are arranged a few millimeters above the roller conveyor, in front of the knife and on the other side behind the knife (considered in the conveying direction), in order to hold the rubber component downward towards the roller conveyor at the position of the pressure rollers when the portion of the rubber component between the pressure rollers is lifted by the lifting beam. Summary of the invention

[0004] The pressure rollers of a known cutting device as disclosed in WO 2008 / 105655 A2 can effectively hold down the portion of the rubber component that would otherwise be lifted by the lifting beam by pressing it down on a roller conveyor on the opposite side of the cutting line, thereby creating a bevel in the rubber component at the lifting beam, into which a knife running at an oblique angle to the lifting beam can cut more accurately.

[0005] The pressing rollers work particularly well for relatively wide rubber parts. Due to the width of the wide rubber parts, the lifting beam lifts a relatively large area, and the pressing rollers positioned at a relatively large distance from the cutting line can effectively press down the section of the wide rubber part that would otherwise be lifted with the lifting beam.

[0006] However, when cutting narrow tire components, such as narrow breaker or chafer, of for example less than one hundred millimeters, the lifted area of ​​the narrow tire component is much smaller and a press roller at a distance from the cutting line as disclosed in WO 2008 / 105655 A2 will not have an effect on the positioning of the narrow tire component. The known press roller cannot be moved closer to the cutting line because the press roller or a support structure supporting the press roller would collide with the knife or a knife holder holding the knife.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a cutting device and a method for cutting tire components, wherein relatively narrow tire components can be cut.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a cutting device for cutting tire components, wherein the cutting device includes a conveyor defining a conveying plane, the conveyor being used to convey the tire components in a conveying direction parallel to the conveying plane, wherein the cutting device also includes a lifting beam for lifting the tire components upward from the conveying plane in a lifting direction, wherein the cutting device is provided with a tool for cutting the tire components along a cutting line, the cutting line intersecting the lifting beam at an inclined cutting angle at a cutting center, wherein the cutting device is provided with a first downward holding unit for pressing and holding the tire component downward toward the conveyor in a downward holding direction opposite to the lifting direction, wherein the first downward holding unit includes a contact member for holding the tire component downward in a downward holding direction toward the conveyor at a first downward holding position adjacent to the lifting beam, the first downward holding position being within a downward holding radius less than one hundred and fifty millimeters from the cutting center.

[0009] By arranging the contact member of the first holding down unit at a first holding down position sufficiently close to the cutting center, a portion of the relatively narrow tire component extending at the first holding down position can be effectively held down toward the conveyor to facilitate the cutting process.

[0010] Preferably, the downward holding radius is less than eighty millimeters from the center of the cut, and preferably less than sixty millimeters from the center of the cut. With these reduced ranges of the downward holding radius, even narrower tire components can be effectively held downward.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first downward holding position is spaced apart from the cutting line by a downward holding distance of less than eighty millimeters in a direction perpendicular to the cutting line. Thus, the first downward holding position can be sufficiently close to the cutting line to effectively hold down a portion of a relatively narrow tire component near the cutting line.

[0012] In a further embodiment, which can also be applied independently of the downward holding radius, the cutting device comprises a tool holder for moving the tool along the cutting line, wherein the contact member extends at least partially between the tool holder and the conveyor for at least one value of the inclined cutting angle and in at least one position of the tool along the cutting line. In other words, the contact member can be at least partially assembled in the space between the tool holder and the conveyor. Thus, the contact member can be positioned even close to the cutting line without interfering with or hitting the tool holder.

[0013] In another embodiment, which may also be applied independently of the downward holding radius, the first downward holding unit comprises a base for holding the contact member in the first downward holding position and a support member for interconnecting the contact member with the base. By providing the support member between the contact member and the base, the contact member can be spaced apart from the base. In other words, the base can be spaced apart from the contact member. Therefore, the size design of the base does not adversely affect the ability of the contact member to be positioned close to the cutting line. In particular, the base can be relatively bulky without interfering with or colliding with the tool and / or the tool holder.

[0014] Preferably, the support member spaces the contact member from the base by a spacing distance of at least fifty millimeters, preferably at least one hundred millimeters, and most preferably at least one hundred and fifty millimeters. Such a spacing distance may be sufficient to keep the base away from the tool and / or tool holder when the tool is moved along the cutting line.

[0015] In another embodiment, which may also be applied independently of the downward holding radius, the contact member may be rotatable about the first rolling axis. When the contact member contacts the tire component, the rotation of the contact member may reduce the friction between the contact member and the tire component. Thus, it is possible to prevent the downward holding of the tire component by the contact member from increasing tension in the tire component or deforming the tire component. In particular, when there is relative movement between the contact member and the tire component, the contact member may roll on the tire component instead of pulling on the tire component. Such relative movement may occur when the contact member presses down on the tire component in the downward holding direction, or when the tire component is so sticky that it is not immediately released from the contact member when the conveyor advances the tire component in the conveying direction.

[0016] Preferably, the first rolling axis extends at an oblique rolling angle relative to the conveying plane. More preferably, the oblique rolling angle is in the range of one to forty-five degrees. At the oblique rolling angle, the base can be positioned just above the conveying plane, while the contact member can be positioned closer to, near or at the conveying plane. Thus, the base can be relatively bulky without interfering with tire components on the conveyor.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the first downward holding unit comprises a rotary bearing coaxial with the first rolling axis.Thus, the contact member and the rotary bearing can be arranged in line or coaxially, thereby greatly simplifying the mechanism for rotating the contact member compared to a non-coaxial arrangement.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first downward holding unit comprises a base for holding the contact member in the first downward holding position and a support member for interconnecting the contact member with the base, wherein the rotary bearing is located between the base and the support member. By arranging the rotary bearing at the base, the contact member can be more compact, thereby allowing it to be moved closer to the cutting center without interfering with or colliding with the tool and / or the tool holder. In particular, the dimensioning of the contact member is not in any way limited by the minimum size of the rotary bearing.

[0019] More preferably, the support member extends coaxially with the first rolling axis. Thus, the support member can rotate with the contact member about the first rolling axis while extending coaxially along the first rolling axis. The support member can be designed to have a minimum or uniform cross-section around the first rolling axis. The support member can, for example, be shaped as a cylindrical rod extending concentrically with the first rolling axis.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the support member is rotationally fixed relative to the contact member. Thus, when the support member is made rotatable, this will also allow the contact member to rotate. Thus, any means for facilitating said rotation (e.g. bearings) may be positioned along, at or in the support member, spaced from the contact member. Thus, the contact member itself may be designed to be more compact.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the contact member and the support member are integrally formed. By manufacturing the contact member and the support member as a single piece, no connection between the support member and the contact member is required, thereby allowing an even more compact design of the contact member. In particular, no fasteners and / or no added material are required to establish the connection.

[0022] Alternatively, the first downward holding unit comprises a base for holding the contact member in the first downward holding position and a support member for interconnecting the contact member with the base, wherein the rotary bearing is located between the support member and the contact member. Although in this case, the contact member may be less compact than in the previous embodiment, the support member does not need to be designed to rotate and can therefore extend non-coaxially or non-linearly.

[0023] In another embodiment, the contact member is at least partially spherical. Compared to the cylindrical pressure rollers of the prior art, the at least partially spherical contact member can contact the tire component in a uniform manner regardless of the orientation of the tire component relative to the spherical surface of the contact member. Moreover, in case the first rolling axis according to one of the aforementioned embodiments is arranged at an inclined rolling angle, the spherical surface of the contact member can still uniformly contact and / or roll on a portion of the tire component extending in an orientation different from the first rolling axis.

[0024] Alternatively, the contact member includes a beveled, chamfered or rounded edge. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the contact member need not be completely spherical. Instead, the contact member may be provided with strategically located edges that are beveled, chamfered or rounded to compensate for the tilt roll angle and / or the offset between the orientation of the contact member and the portion of the tire component held downward by the contact member.

[0025] In another embodiment, the outer dimension of the contact member in the downward holding direction is less than thirty millimeters, preferably less than twenty-five millimeters, and most preferably less than twenty millimeters. By limiting the outer dimension to one of the ranges specified above, the contact member can be brought very close to the cutting line, or even extend in the holding direction between the tool holder and the conveyor. In particular, when the contact member is spherical or at least partially spherical, the spherical cross-section can be provided with an outer diameter corresponding to the outer dimension specified above.

[0026] In another embodiment, the first holding down unit is arranged for holding the tire component downwards towards the conveyor at a first side of the cutting line. In other words, the contact member does not extend beyond the first cutting line.

[0027] Preferably, the contact member of the first downward holding unit is completely located in a first downward holding area, which is sandwiched in an obtuse angle between the cutting line and the lifting beam on a first side of the cutting line. In other words, the contact member does not extend beyond the first downward holding area. Thus, a portion of the tire component extending in the first downward holding area can be actively held downward, while other portions of the tire component are not actively held downward and can be picked up by the tool when the tool cuts through the tire component along the cutting line.

[0028] In another embodiment, the cutting device comprises a second downward holding unit having a contact member for downwardly holding the tire component in a downward holding direction toward the conveyor at a second downward holding position adjacent to the lifting beam at a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side. Thus, the tire component can be held downwardly toward the conveyor at the opposite side of the cutting line. In particular, one of the first downward holding position and the second downward holding position is located upstream of the lifting beam in the conveying direction, while the other of the first downward holding position and the second downward holding position is located downstream of the lifting beam.

[0029] Preferably, the contact member of the second downward holding unit is completely located in a second downward holding area which is sandwiched in an obtuse angle between the cutting line and the lifting beam on a second side of the cutting line. Thus, a portion of the tire component extending in the second downward holding area can be actively held downward, while other portions of the tire component are not actively held downward and can be picked up by the tool when the tool cuts through the tire component along the cutting line.

[0030] In another embodiment, the second downward holding position is within the downward holding radius from the cutting center. This has the same technical advantages as described above regarding the first downward holding position being within the downward holding radius.

[0031] In another embodiment, the cutting device is provided with a first clamping unit for clamping the tire component on the lifting beam at a first side of the cutting line. The clamping can prevent the tire component from shifting at the cutting line, thereby improving the accuracy of the cutting.

[0032] Preferably, the first clamping unit is arranged to move together with the first holding down unit. The first clamping unit and the first holding down unit can be moved together, for example, in the holding down direction or in the lifting direction. When the first holding down unit and the first clamping unit are lifted in the lifting direction, they can be moved away from the conveyor, thereby allowing enough space to advance the tire component in the conveying direction without the first holding down unit and the first clamping unit interfering with the conveying.

[0033] In particular, the cutting device is provided with a first holder for simultaneously supporting the first downward holding unit and the first clamping unit.Thus, both the first downward holding unit and the first clamping unit can be moved by moving the common first holder, thereby requiring only a single drive, rather than two separate drives.

[0034] In another embodiment, the first clamping unit comprises fingers. Preferably, the fingers are resilient. The fingers can press the tire component against the lifting beam with a clamping force to ensure proper fixation of the tire component on the lifting beam during the cutting process.

[0035] In another embodiment, the cutting device is provided with a second clamping unit for clamping the tire component on the lifting beam at a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side. The second clamping unit can also further improve the cutting accuracy by clamping the tire component on the lifting beam at the second side of the cutting line.

[0036] Preferably, the cutting device comprises a second downward holding unit for holding the tire component downwardly in the downward holding direction towards the conveyor at a second side of the cutting line, wherein the second clamping unit is arranged to move together with the second downward holding unit. When the second downward holding unit and the second clamping unit are lifted in the lifting direction, they can be moved away from the conveyor, thereby allowing sufficient space to advance the tire component in the conveying direction without the second downward holding unit and the second clamping unit interfering with the conveying. In particular, when all the downward holding units and the clamping units are lifted in the lifting direction, they can all be kept away from the conveyor and at a sufficient distance from the conveyor to allow advancement of the tire component below.

[0037] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for cutting a tire component, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0038] - providing a conveyor defining a conveying plane;

[0039] - providing tire components on a conveyor in said conveying plane;

[0040] - lifting the tire component from the conveying plane in a lifting direction using a lifting beam;

[0041] - cutting the tire component along a cutting line intersecting the lifting beam at an oblique cutting angle at the cutting center; and

[0042] - Holding the tire component downwardly towards the conveyor at a first downward holding position adjacent to the lifting beam, the first downward holding position being within a downward holding radius of less than one hundred and fifty millimeters from the cutting center.

[0043] By providing a downwardly held tire component at a first downwardly held position substantially close to the cutting center, a portion of the relatively narrow tire component extending at said first downwardly held position can be effectively held downwardly toward the conveyor to facilitate the cutting process.

[0044] Preferably, the component width of the tire component in the lateral direction perpendicular to the conveying direction is less than one hundred millimeters, preferably less than eighty millimeters, and most preferably less than seventy millimeters. As mentioned above, the close positioning of the first downward holding position to the cutting center allows cutting narrow tire components, in particular narrow tire components as specified above. Examples of such narrow tire components are narrow breaker layers (usually wider than one hundred millimeters) or chafers.

[0045] In other embodiments, the cutting angle can be adjusted within a range of fifteen to seventy degrees. Thus, the first downward holding unit can be designed to position the contact member in the first downward holding position while the first downward holding unit should not collide with the tool and / or the tool holder at any cutting angle within the specified range.

[0046] According to a third aspect, which is not claimed for protection, the present invention provides a cutting device for cutting tire components, wherein the cutting device includes a conveyor defining a conveying plane, the conveyor being used to convey the tire components in a conveying direction parallel to the conveying plane, wherein the cutting device also includes a lifting beam for lifting the tire components from the conveying plane in a lifting direction, wherein the cutting device also includes a cutting member for cutting the tire components along a cutting line, the cutting line extending obliquely across the lifting beam in the cutting direction parallel to the conveying plane, wherein the cutting device is provided with: a first downward holding unit for downwardly holding the tire component on a first side of the cutting line toward the conveyor adjacent to the lifting beam; and a second downward holding unit for downwardly holding the tire component on a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side toward the conveyor adjacent to the lifting beam, wherein the cutting device is further provided with a first clamping unit and a second clamping unit for clamping the tire component on the lifting beam on the first side and the second side of the cutting line, respectively, wherein the cutting device includes one or more drives for moving the first downward holding unit, the second downward holding unit, the first clamping unit, and the second clamping unit in a downward holding direction transverse to the conveying plane.

[0047] After cutting, the lifting beam is lowered to a position below the conveying rollers and the new length of the tire component is advanced across the lifting beam in the conveying direction. Although the downward holding units and the clamping units are intended only for contacting and holding down the tire component during cutting, they may occasionally contact the tire component while it is being advanced, for example when the tire component has not yet been completely lowered back onto the conveyor, when the tire component has irregularities (such as defective splices or creases), or when the tire component has unpredictable behavior due to its being conveyed at high speed. The tire component may, for example, bump, become loose or jump from the conveying plane. Contact with the downward holding units and / or the clamping units may deform and / or damage the tire component, which may potentially have a negative impact on the cutting quality during the subsequent cutting process. When all downward holding units and all clamping units are lifted, they can be prevented from contacting or colliding with the tire component being advanced or conveyed below.

[0048] In another embodiment, the first downward holding unit and the second downward holding unit are movable in the downward holding direction between an inoperative position at a first distance from the conveying plane and an operative position at a second distance from the conveying plane less than the first distance. In the operative position, the downward holding unit may actively hold the tire component downward on or toward the conveyor. In the inoperative position, the downward holding unit may be spaced apart from the conveyor so as not to contact the tire component.

[0049] Preferably, the second distance is less than five millimeters, and preferably less than three millimeters. At said second distance, the tire components can be effectively held downwards towards or on the conveyor. The tire components can be even thinner, so that the downward holding units do not have to contact the tire components all the time. They can only prevent the tire components from moving upwards from the conveyor beyond the second distance.

[0050] In another embodiment, the first distance is at least ten millimeters, preferably at least twenty millimeters, and most preferably at least thirty millimeters. The first distance as specified should be sufficient to prevent unintentional contact between the tire component and the downward holding unit in the inoperative position. The larger the first distance, the smaller the risk of contact.

[0051] In another embodiment, the first clamping unit is arranged to move together with the first downward holding unit in the downward holding direction. The first clamping unit and the first downward holding unit are located on the same first side of the cutting line. By moving the first clamping unit and the first downward holding unit together, the tire component on the first side of the cutting line can be released.

[0052] Preferably, the cutting device is provided with a first holder for supporting the first downward holding unit and the first clamping unit simultaneously.Therefore, both the first downward holding unit and the first clamping unit can be moved by moving the common first holder.

[0053] More preferably, the one or more drivers include a first driver for moving the first holder in the downward holding direction.The first driver may be a common driver for simultaneously moving the first downward holding unit and the first clamping unit.

[0054] In another embodiment, the second clamping unit is arranged to move together with the second downward holding unit in the downward holding direction. By moving the second clamping unit and the second downward holding unit together, the tire component on the second side of the cutting line can be released. The second clamping unit and the second downward holding unit can be moved together at a different time than the first clamping unit and the first downward holding unit, for example in order to release a portion of the tire component extending on the second side of the cutting line earlier than other portions of the tire component extending on the first side of the cutting line. In particular, when the second side of the cutting line is downstream of the cutting line, the portion of the tire component that has been cut off on the downstream side can be released earlier than the portion of the tire component on the first side of the cutting line to allow the cut portion to be advanced before a new length of the tire component is fed across the cutting line.

[0055] Preferably, the cutting device is provided with a second holder for supporting the second downward holding unit and the second clamping unit simultaneously.Therefore, both the second downward holding unit and the second clamping unit can be moved by moving the common second holder.

[0056] More preferably, the one or more drivers include a second driver for moving the second holder in the downward holding direction.The second driver may be a common driver for simultaneously moving the second downward holding unit and the second clamping unit.

[0057] Alternatively, the one or more drivers include a plurality of drivers for individually moving each of the first downward holding unit, the second downward holding unit, the first clamping unit, and the second clamping unit. Therefore, each downward holding unit and each clamping unit can be controlled to move individually.

[0058] In another embodiment, the first downward holding unit and the second downward holding unit each include a rotatable contact member. When the contact member contacts the tire component, the rotation of the contact member can reduce the friction between the contact member and the tire component. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the downward holding of the tire component by the contact member from increasing the tension in the tire component or deforming the tire component. In particular, when there is a relative movement between the contact member and the tire component, the contact member can roll on the tire component instead of pulling on the tire component. This relative movement may occur when the contact member presses down on the tire component in the downward holding direction, or when the tire component is so sticky that it is not immediately released from the contact member when the conveyor advances the tire component in the conveying direction.

[0059] In another embodiment, the first clamping unit and the second clamping unit each include a resilient finger that can press the tire component against the lifting beam with a clamping force to ensure proper fixation of the tire component on the lifting beam during the cutting process.

[0060] Whenever possible, each individual aspect and feature described and shown in the specification may be applied separately. These individual aspects, in particular those described in the accompanying dependent claims, may be the subject of a divisional patent application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] The invention will be explained on the basis of exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic drawings, in which:

[0062] Figure 1 shows a top view of a cutting device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 2 The method for cutting a tire component during the cutting step is shown according to Figure 1 A side view of a cutting device;

[0064] Figure 3 shows the cutting step before or after Figure 1 A side view of a cutting device;

[0065] Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 They are shown according to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 A rear view of the cutting device;

[0066] Figure 7 Shown according to Figure 1 A cross section of the cutting device along line VII-VII;

[0067] Figure 8 Shown according to Figure 1 A cross-section of a first downward holding unit of a cutting device;

[0068] Fig. 9 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 shows cross sections of alternative downward holding units according to a second exemplary embodiment, a third exemplary embodiment and a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, respectively;

[0069] Fig.12 A top view showing an alternative cutting device according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0070] Fig.13 A top view of a further alternative cutting device according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Figures 1 to 8 A cutting device 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment is shown for cutting a tire component T, in particular a breaker ply or a chafer.

[0072] The tire component T has a relatively narrow width W, for example less than one hundred millimeters or less. In this example, the width W of the tire component T is about sixty millimeters. The tire component T generally includes an elastomer or rubber body and may be provided with reinforcing cords. The reinforcing cords extend at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the tire component T. The tire component T has a thickness of only a few millimeters (for example less than three millimeters). In this example, the thickness of the tire component T is about one millimeter.

[0073] The tire component T is fed as a continuous length or strip towards a cutting device 1. The cutting device 1 is configured for cutting off a predetermined length of the tire component T to be used in a tire manufacturing process downstream of said cutting device 1 .

[0074] like Figure 1As shown, the cutting device 1 comprises a conveyor 2 for conveying tire components T. The conveyor 2 defines a conveying plane P for conveying the tire components T. The conveyor 2 is configured to convey the tire components T in a feeding direction or conveying direction F parallel to the conveying plane P. The tire components T are fed onto the conveyor 2, wherein the longitudinal direction of the tire components T is parallel to the conveying direction F. Figure 1 The longitudinal direction X is shown, which thus represents both the longitudinal direction X of the conveyor 2 and the longitudinal direction X of the tire components T. Figure 1 A lateral direction Y is also shown, which extends transversely or perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction Y and parallel to the conveying plane P.

[0075] In this example, the conveyor 2 is a belt conveyor having two conveying sections 21, 22 arranged in a straight line along a conveying direction F. In particular, each conveying section 21, 22 comprises a conveyor belt 23, 24 arranged in an endless loop around a plurality of pulleys. The upper run of each conveyor belt 23, 24 defines a conveying plane P. Alternatively, the conveyor 2 may be a roller conveyor (not shown) similar to the roller conveyor in WO2008 / 105655 A2. Such a roller conveyor comprises a plurality of rollers divided into two groups corresponding to the aforementioned conveying sections 21, 22.

[0076] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As best seen in Figure 2 , the cutting device 1 further comprises a lifting member or lifting beam 3 for lifting the tire component T from the conveying plane P in a lifting direction L. In this example, the lifting direction L is perpendicular to the conveying plane P. The lifting beam 3 comprises a beam body 30 extending between the conveying sections 21, 22 in a direction transverse or perpendicular to the conveying direction F. In particular, the lifting beam 3 has a center line N extending in said direction transverse or perpendicular to the conveying direction F. In other words, the beam body 30 extends parallel to the lateral direction Y. The lifting beam 3 is provided with a cutting gap or cutting recess 31 in the beam body 3.

[0077] like Figure 1As shown, the cutting device 1 is also provided with a cutter 4 for cutting a tire component T. The cutter 4 comprises a cutting member or knife 40 and a knife holder 41 for holding said knife 40. In this example, the knife 40 is provided with a collar similar to the collar disclosed in WO 2008 / 105655 A2, which is used to carry the tire component T once the knife 40 has cut into and / or pierced the tire component T. The cutter 4 also comprises a cutting beam 42. The cutting beam 42 extends parallel or substantially parallel to the conveying plane P. The knife holder 41 is movable along the cutting beam 42 to move the knife 40 along a cutting line K parallel to said cutting beam 42. The cutting line K is arranged at an inclined cutting angle V with the conveying direction F. The inclined cutting angle V is measured in the conveying plane P or parallel to the conveying plane P. In particular, the cutting line K intersects the lifting beam 3 at the cutting center C. The cutting recess 31 in the lifting beam 3 is dimensioned and / or shaped to allow the knife 40 to pass through the beam body 30 at the cutting center C at the oblique cutting angle V.

[0078] In this example, the cutting beam 42 may be around Figure 2 and Figure 3 The cutting axis B shown rotates, the cutting axis extending perpendicular to the conveying plane P through the cutting center C. By rotating the cutting beam 42, the inclined cutting angle V can be adjusted. In particular, the inclined cutting angle V is selected to be parallel or approximately parallel to any reinforcing cords embedded in the tire component T at an inclined cord angle, so that the knife 40 can cut between the reinforcing cords without skipping them. Preferably, the inclined cutting angle V is adjustable within a range of fifteen degrees to seventy degrees.

[0079] like Figure 2 As shown, the cutting device 1 is provided with a first downward holding unit 5 and a second downward holding unit 6, which are used to press or hold the tire component T downward toward the conveyor 2 or press or hold the tire component T downward on the conveyor 2 in a pressing direction or downward holding direction H opposite to the lifting direction L. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first downward holding unit 5 and the second downward holding unit 6 can be moved in the downward holding direction H and the lifting direction L toward and away from the conveyor 2 and / or the conveying plane P. In particular, the first downward holding unit 5 and the second downward holding unit 6 can be moved from Figure 3 Move the rest position shown until Figure 2The working position shown, the inoperative position is at a first distance H1 from the conveying plane P, and the working position is at a second distance H2 from the conveying plane P, the second distance H2 being less than the first distance H1. The first distance H1 should be sufficient to prevent unintentional contact between the tire component T and the downward holding units 5, 6 in the inoperative position when it is pushed or conveyed by the conveyor 2. The greater the first distance, the lower the risk of contact. The first distance H1 is at least ten millimeters. In this example, the first distance H1 is about fifty millimeters. The second distance H2 is less than five millimeters. In this example, the second distance H2 is about two millimeters. At the second distance H2, the tire component T can be effectively held downward toward the conveyor 2 or held downward on the conveyor.

[0080] like Figure 1 As best seen in the figure, the first downward holding unit 5 is configured to downwardly hold the tire component T at a first pressing position or downward holding position P1 adjacent to the lifting beam 3 at a first side S1 of the cutting line K, and the second downward holding unit 6 is configured to downwardly hold the tire component T at a second pressing position or downward holding position P2 adjacent to the lifting beam 3 at a second side S2 of the cutting line K opposite to the first side S1. In this example, the first downward holding position P1 and the second downward holding position P2 are located within a downward holding radius R less than one hundred and fifty millimeters from the cutting center C. In this example, the downward holding radius R is less than one hundred millimeters, preferably about sixty millimeters.

[0081] like Figure 8 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the first downward holding unit 5 comprises a contact member 50 for pressing down or holding down the tire component T towards or on the conveyor 2 in a downward holding direction H at a first downward holding position P1. In this example, the contact member 50 is spherical or has a spherical surface. In this example, the contact member 50 has an outer dimension or outer diameter D of less than thirty millimeters, considered in the downward holding direction H. In this example, the outer diameter D is approximately eighteen millimeters. Figure 7 As shown, due to the relatively small outer dimension D, the contact member 50 can at least partially extend between the tool holder 41 and the conveyor 2 or be inserted therebetween.

[0082] like Figure 8 As shown, the contact member 50 is rotatable about a first rolling axis G1. In this example, the first rolling axis G1 extends at an oblique rolling angle E relative to the conveying plane P. The rolling angle E is in the range of one to forty-five degrees. In this example, the rolling angle E is approximately ten degrees.

[0083] The first downward holding unit 5 further includes a base 51 for holding the contact member 50 in the first downward holding position P1 and a support member 52 for interconnecting the contact member 50 with the base 51. The support member 52 spaces the contact member 50 from the base 51 by a spacing distance M of at least fifty millimeters. In this example, the spacing distance M is approximately one hundred and sixty millimeters. Figure 7 As shown, the spacing is sufficient to keep the base 51 away from the knife 40 and / or the knife holder 41, even at extreme inclined cutting angles V.

[0084] like Figure 8 As further shown, the support member 52 extends coaxially around the first rolling axis G1. Preferably, the support member 52 is narrower than the contact member 50. In particular, the support member 52 can be shaped as a thin or narrow rod that coincides with the first rolling axis G1. Preferably, the support member 52 is cylindrical. In this case, the support member 52 has a diameter equal to or less than the outer diameter D of the contact member 50. In other words, if the contact member 50 is referred to as the "head" of the first downward holding unit 5, the support member 52 will be considered to be the "neck" portion that connects the "head" to the base 51.

[0085] In such Figure 8 In the example shown, the first downward holding unit 5 comprises a rotation bearing 53 arranged coaxially or in line with the first rolling axis G1. The rotation bearing 53 is located between the base 51 and the support member 52. The support member 52 can thus rotate around the first rolling axis G1 relative to the base 51. In particular, the support member 52 is rotationally fixed relative to the contact member 50 so that the two can rotate together or in unison around the first rolling axis G1. In this particular example, the contact member 50 and the support member 52 are formed integrally.

[0086] like Figure 1 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the second downward holding unit 6 comprises a contact member 60, a base 61, a support member 62 and a rotation bearing 63, which have the same features, functions and / or interactions as previously described with respect to the first downward holding unit 5. In practice, the first downward holding unit 5 and the second downward holding unit 6 may be identical and / or interchangeable. Therefore, the second downward holding unit 6 will not be described in further detail.

[0087] like Figure 1As shown, the first downward holding position P1 is located in the first half of the width of the conveyor 2 in the lateral direction Y, and the second downward holding position is located in the second half of the width of the conveyor 2 in the lateral direction Y, which is opposite to the first half. In particular, the first downward holding unit 5 and the second downward holding unit 6 do not extend beyond the half-width distance across the conveyor 2. Alternatively, the contact member 50 of the first downward holding unit 5 is completely located in the first downward holding area A1, which is sandwiched in the obtuse angle between the cutting line K and the lifting beam 3 on the first side S1 of the cutting line K. In contrast, the contact member 60 of the second downward holding unit 6 is completely located in the second downward holding area A2, which is sandwiched in the obtuse angle between the cutting line K and the lifting beam 3 on the second side S2 of the cutting line K. The first downward holding unit 5 and the second downward holding unit 6 can be arranged on opposite sides S1, S2 of the cutting line K in a point-symmetrical manner about the cutting center C.

[0088] In this example, the contact member 60 is located at or near the longitudinal axis or center axis Z of the tire component T.

[0089] like Figure 1 As further shown, the cutting device 1 is provided with a first clamping unit 7 and a second clamping unit 8 for clamping the tire component T on the lifting beam 3 at a first side S1 and a second side S2 of the cutting line K, respectively. In particular, the first clamping unit 7 and the second clamping unit 8 are designed to clamp the tire component T on the beam body 30 of the lifting beam 3 as close as possible to the cutting recess 31 in the lifting beam 3. In this example, as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, each gripping unit 7 , 8 comprises a finger 70 , 80 , in particular an elastic or elastically flexible finger 70 , 80 .

[0090] like Figure 2 As shown, the first downward holding unit 5 and the first clamping unit 7 are mounted on or supported by the first holder 11 so as to move together or in unison in the downward holding direction H and the lifting direction L. In particular, the cutting device 1 is provided with a first drive 91 common to the first downward holding unit 5 and the first clamping unit 7, which is used to move the first downward holding unit 5 and the first clamping unit 7 together or in unison.

[0091] Similarly, if Figure 1 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the second holding down unit 6 and the second clamping unit 8 are mounted on or supported by the second holder 12 so as to move together in the holding down direction H and the lifting direction L. The cutting device 1 is provided with a second drive 92 common to the second holding down unit 6 and the second clamping unit 8 .

[0092] The first driver 91 and the second driver 92 can be controlled so that all downward holding units 5, 6 and all clamping units 7, 8 are simultaneously in the inoperative position, such as Figure 3 The drives 91, 92 can be controlled to move their respective downward holding units 5, 6 and clamping units 7, 8 simultaneously, or in groups one after another, for example to first release the cut length of the tire component T downstream of the cutting line L. With all downward holding units 5, 6 and clamping units 7, 8 in the inoperative position, any interference of the downward holding units 5, 6 and clamping units 7, 8 with the conveyance of the tire component T below can be effectively prevented.

[0093] Fig. 9 An alternative downward holding unit 105 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 8 The downward holding unit 5 is different in that the rotation bearing 153 is located between the support member 152 and the contact member 150. Therefore, the support member 152 may be rotationally fixed relative to the base 151 and / or formed integrally therewith. The contact member 150 is rotatable relative to the support member 152.

[0094] Fig.10 A further alternative downward holding unit 205 according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 8 The difference of the downward holding unit 5 is that the contact member 250 cannot rotate about the first rolling axis G1. Instead, the contact member 250 can be rotationally fixed relative to the support member 252 and / or the base 251 and / or formed integrally therewith. Preferably, the contact member 250 is provided with a low friction coating to reduce the friction between the tire component T and the contact member 250.

[0095] Fig.11 A further alternative downward holding unit 305 according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 8 The downward holding unit 5 is different in that the contact member 350 is provided with a beveled, chamfered or rounded edge 355. In particular, the edge 355 extends circumferentially around the first rolling axis G1. Although the contact member 350 is shown as if it is formed integrally with the support member 352 and / or the base 351, it should be understood that the rotary bearing can be provided in a manner such as Figure 8 or Fig. 9 Any position shown so that the contact member 350 can rotate around the first rolling axis G1.

[0096] Fig.12 An alternative cutting device 401 according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1The difference of the cutting device 1 shown is that the first downward holding unit 405, the second downward holding unit 406, the first clamping unit 407 and the second clamping unit 408 are all provided with their own dedicated or separate drives 491-494 to individually and / or independently control their movement along the downward holding direction H and / or lifting direction L.

[0097] Fig.13 A further alternative cutting device 501 according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, which is similar to the Figure 1 The difference of the cutting device 1 shown is that the cutter 504 is configured to hold, support or carry at least one of the first downward holding unit 5, the second downward holding unit 6, the first clamping unit 7 and the second clamping unit 8. In particular, the at least one of the downward holding units 5, 6 or the clamping units 7, 8 is supported on or carried by the cutting beam 542. In this example, the first downward holding unit 5 and the first clamping unit 7 are directly connected to the cutting beam 542 via the first holder 543, and the second downward holding unit 6 and the second clamping unit 8 are directly connected to the cutting beam 542 via the second holder 544. Therefore, the downward holding units 5, 6 and the clamping units 7, 8 can be adjusted into position around the cutting center C together with the cutting beam 542.

[0098] Now refer to Figures 1 to 7 A method for cutting the tire component T is briefly explained.

[0099] Figure 1 FIG. 2 shows a tire component T provided in a conveying plane P on a conveyor 2. Figure 4 As shown, the first downward holding unit 5 and the second downward holding unit 6 can be moved downward to a working position at a second distance H2 from the conveying plane P, while the lifting beam 3 is still downward or retracted, i.e. below or flush with the conveying plane P. The clamping units 7, 8 have moved together with the downward holding units 5, 6, and they can already loosely clamp the tire component T at the position of the lifting beam 3, or they can float just above the tire component T, waiting for the lifting beam 3 to be lifted.

[0100] Alternatively, before the downward holding units 5, 6 and / or the clamping units 7, 8 are moved downward, the lifting beam 3 may already be in the raised or lifted position, such as Figure 2 and Figure 5 shown.

[0101] Figure 2 and Figure 5The situation is shown in which the lifting beam 3 has been raised or lifted to a level above the conveying plane P. The downward holding units 5, 6 and the clamping units 7, 8 have been moved downwards to respectively hold the tire component T downwards towards or on the conveyor 2 and to clamp the tire component T on the lifting beam 3. When contacting the tire component T on the lifting beam 3, the fingers 70, 80 may at least partially flex upwards.

[0102] like Figure 5 As schematically shown, the contact member 50 of the first downward holding unit 5 mainly deflects only a portion of the tire component T toward the conveyor 2 in the first downward holding position P1, while the remaining portion of the tire component T is still lifted by the lifting beam 3. Similarly, the contact member 60 of the second downward holding unit 6 mainly deflects another portion of the tire component T toward the conveyor 2 in the second downward holding position P2, while the remaining portion of the tire component T is still lifted by the lifting beam 3.

[0103] In this way, the lifted portion of the tire component T can be maintained in a diamond three-dimensional shape with a top at the cutting center C, to which the initial cutting can be performed. Once the knife 40 pierces the tire component T at the cutting center C, the knife 40 is moved to one of the longitudinal sides of the tire component T, and then moved in the opposite direction along the cutting line K to complete the cutting toward the other longitudinal side of the tire component T. The knife 40 can be provided with the aforementioned collar to carry the tire component T during the cutting process.

[0104] Once the cutting is completed, the downward holding units 5, 6 and the clamping units 7, 8 can be lifted to the first distance H1. Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown. At the same time, the lifting beam 3 has been lowered. Now, the tire component T can be transferred or pushed without interference from the downward holding units 5, 6 and the clamping units 7, 8. As mentioned above, the downward holding units 5, 6 and the clamping units 7, 8 do not have to move at the same time and can be controlled individually, independently or in groups according to process requirements.

[0105] It should be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of the preferred embodiment and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. From the above discussion, many variations that are still encompassed by the scope of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0106] In summary, the present invention provides a cutting device 1, 401, 501 and a method for cutting a tire component T, wherein the cutting device 1, 401, 501 comprises a conveyor 2 defining a conveying plane P, wherein the cutting device 1, 401, 501 comprises a lifting beam 3 for lifting the tire component T from the conveying plane P along a lifting direction L, wherein the cutting device 1, 401, 501 is provided with a knife 40 for cutting the tire component T along a cutting line K, the cutting line K intersecting the lifting beam 3 at an inclined cutting angle V at a cutting center C, wherein the cutting device 1, 401, 501 are provided with a first downward holding unit 5, 105, 205, 305, 405 for holding the tire component T downward toward the conveyor 2 along a downward holding direction H opposite to the lifting direction, wherein the first downward holding unit 5, 105, 205, 305, 405 includes a contact member 50, 150, 250, 350 for holding the tire component T downward toward the conveyor 2 along the downward holding direction H at a first downward holding position P1, and the first downward holding position is within a downward holding radius R less than one hundred millimeters from the cutting center C.

[0107] List of reference numerals

[0108] 1 Cutting device

[0109] 11First Retainer

[0110] 12 Second retainer

[0111] 2Conveyor

[0112] 21 First transmission section

[0113] 22 Second transmission section

[0114] 23 First conveyor belt

[0115] 24 Second conveyor belt

[0116] 3 Lifting beam

[0117] 30 beam main body

[0118] 31 cutting recess

[0119] 4 Cutter

[0120] 40 knives

[0121] 41 Tool Holder

[0122] 42 Cutting beam

[0123] 5First downward holding unit

[0124] 50 contact components

[0125] 51 base

[0126] 52 Supporting members

[0127] 53 Rotary bearing

[0128] 6Second down holding unit

[0129] 60 contact components

[0130] 61 base

[0131] 62 Supporting members

[0132] 63 Rotary bearing

[0133] 7First clamping unit

[0134] 70 fingers

[0135] 8Second clamping unit

[0136] 80 fingers

[0137] 91 First Drive

[0138] 92 Second Drive

[0139] 105 Alternative first downward holding unit

[0140] 150 contact components

[0141] 151 base

[0142] 152 Supporting members

[0143] 153 Rotary bearing

[0144] 205 Additional optional first downward holding unit

[0145] 250 contact components

[0146] 251 base

[0147] 252 Supporting members

[0148] 305 Additional optional first downward holding unit

[0149] 350 contact components

[0150] 351 base

[0151] 352 Supporting members

[0152] 355 rounded edges

[0153] 401 Optional cutting device

[0154] 405 first downward holding unit

[0155] 406 Second downward holding unit

[0156] 407 first clamping unit

[0157] 408 Second clamping unit

[0158] 491 First Drive

[0159] 492 Second Drive

[0160] 493 Third Drive

[0161] 494 Fourth Drive

[0162] 501 Additional optional cutting device

[0163] 504 Cutter

[0164] 542 cutting beam

[0165] 543 First Retainer

[0166] 544 Second Retainer

[0167] A1 first downward holding area

[0168] A2 Second downward holding area

[0169] B Cutter axis

[0170] C Cutting Center

[0171] DOuter diameter

[0172] ERoll Angle

[0173] FTransmission direction

[0174] G1 first rolling axis

[0175] G2 Second rolling axis

[0176] H down to maintain direction

[0177] H1 First Distance

[0178] H2 Second Distance

[0179] J Keep distance downward

[0180] K cutting line

[0181] L Lifting direction

[0182] M interval distance

[0183] N Center Line

[0184] P Transmission Plane

[0185] P1 first downward holding position

[0186] P2 Second downward holding position

[0187] R holds the radius downward

[0188] S1 first side

[0189] S2 Second side

[0190] Tire Components

[0191] V cutting angle

[0192] W Width of component

[0193] X vertical

[0194] Y side

[0195] Z center axis

Claims

1. A cutting device for cutting tire components, wherein: The cutting device includes a conveyor, which defines a conveying plane, and the conveyor is used to convey the tire component in a conveying direction parallel to the conveying plane, wherein the cutting device also includes a lifting beam for lifting the tire component upward from the conveying plane in a lifting direction, wherein the cutting device is provided with a knife for cutting the tire component along a cutting line, and the cutting line intersects the lifting beam at an inclined cutting angle at a cutting center, wherein the cutting device is provided with a first downward holding unit for holding the tire component downward toward the conveyor in a downward holding direction opposite to the lifting direction, wherein the first downward holding unit includes a contact member, and the contact member is used to hold the tire component downward toward the conveyor in the downward holding direction at a first downward holding position adjacent to the lifting beam, and the first downward holding position is within a downward holding radius less than one hundred and fifty millimeters from the cutting center.

2. The cutting device according to claim 1, wherein: The downward holding radius is less than eighty millimeters from the cutting center, and preferably less than sixty millimeters from the cutting center.

3. The cutting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first down hold position is spaced apart from the cutting line in a direction perpendicular to the cutting line by a down hold distance of less than eighty millimeters.

4. A cutting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The cutting device comprises a tool holder for moving the tool along the cutting line, wherein the contact member extends at least partially between the tool holder and the conveyor for at least one value of the inclined cutting angle and in at least one position of the tool along the cutting line.

5. A cutting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first downward holding unit includes a base for holding the contact member at the first downward holding position and a supporting member for interconnecting the contact member with the base.

6. The cutting device according to claim 5, wherein: The support member spaces the contact member apart from the base by a spacing distance of at least fifty millimeters, preferably at least one hundred millimeters, and most preferably at least one hundred and fifty millimeters.

7. A cutting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The contact member is rotatable about a first rolling axis.

8. The cutting device according to claim 7, wherein: The first rolling axis extends at an oblique rolling angle relative to the conveying plane.

9. The cutting device according to claim 8, wherein: The tilt and roll angle is in the range of one to forty-five degrees.

10. The cutting device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: The first downward holding unit includes a rotary bearing coaxial with the first rolling axis.

11. The cutting device according to claim 10, wherein: The first downward holding unit includes a base for holding the contact member at the first downward holding position and a support member for interconnecting the contact member with the base, wherein the rotary bearing is located between the base and the support member.

12. The cutting device according to claim 11, wherein: The support member extends coaxially with the first rolling axis.

13. The cutting device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The support member is rotationally fixed relative to the contact member.

14. The cutting device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein: The contact member and the support member are integrally formed.

15. The cutting device according to claim 10, wherein: The first downward holding unit includes a base for holding the contact member in the first downward holding position and a support member for interconnecting the contact member with the base, wherein the rotary bearing is located between the support member and the contact member.

16. Cutting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The contact member is at least partially spherical.

17. The cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The contact member comprises a beveled, chamfered or rounded edge.

18. A cutting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The outer dimension of the contact member in the downward retaining direction is less than thirty millimeters, preferably less than twenty-five millimeters, most preferably less than twenty millimeters.

19. A cutting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first holding down unit is arranged for holding the tire component downwardly towards the conveyor at a first side of the cutting line.

20. The cutting device according to claim 19, wherein The contact member of the first holding down unit is located completely in a first holding down area which is contained in an obtuse angle between the cutting line and the lifting beam on the first side of the cutting line.

21. The cutting device according to claim 19 or 20, wherein: The cutting device comprises a second downward holding unit having a contact member for holding the tire component downwardly in a downward holding direction toward the conveyor at a second downward holding position adjacent to the lifting beam at a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side.

22. The cutting device according to claim 21, wherein The contact member of the second holding down unit is located completely in a second holding down area which is contained in an obtuse angle between the cutting line and the lifting beam on the second side of the cutting line.

23. The cutting device according to claim 21 or 22, wherein: The second down hold position is within a down hold radius from the cutting center.

24. A cutting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The cutting device is provided with a first clamping unit for clamping the tire component on the lifting beam at a first side of the cutting line.

25. The cutting device according to claim 24, wherein The first clamping unit is arranged to move together with the first down-holding unit.

26. A cutting device according to claim 24 or 25, wherein: The cutting device is provided with a first holder for simultaneously supporting the first downward holding unit and the first clamping unit.

27. A cutting device according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein: The first clamping unit includes fingers.

28. The cutting device according to claim 27, wherein The fingers are elastic.

29. A cutting device according to any one of claims 24 to 28, wherein The cutting device is provided with a second clamping unit for clamping the tire component on the lifting beam at a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side.

30. The cutting device according to claim 29, wherein The cutting device comprises a second downward holding unit for holding the tire component downwardly towards the conveyor at the second side of the cutting line in the downward holding direction, wherein the second clamping unit is arranged to move together with the second downward holding unit.

31. A method for cutting a tire component, wherein: The method comprises the following steps: - providing a conveyor defining a conveying plane; - providing said tire components on said conveyor in said conveying plane; - lifting the tire component upwards from the conveying plane in a lifting direction using a lifting beam; - cutting the tire component along a cutting line intersecting the lifting beam at an oblique cutting angle at the cutting center; and - Holding the tire component downwardly towards the conveyor at a first downward holding position adjacent the lifting beam, the first downward holding position being within a downward holding radius of less than one hundred and fifty millimeters from the cutting center.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein: The component width of the tire component in the lateral direction perpendicular to the conveying direction is less than one hundred millimeters, preferably less than eighty millimeters and most preferably less than seventy millimeters.

33. The method according to claim 31 or 32, wherein: The tire component is a breaker or a chafer.

34. A method according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein: The cutting angle can be adjusted within a range of fifteen to seventy degrees.

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