Transfer ring segment, transfer ring and method for transferring tire components

Abstract

The invention relates to a transfer ring segment, a transfer ring (1) and a method for transferring tire components, in which the transfer ring segment comprises a plurality of first pins (41) and a segment body (30) provided with a plurality of first sliding channels (31) in which the plurality of first pins are slidably received, each first sliding channel of the plurality of sliding channels has a channel head through which a respective first pin of the plurality of first pins protrudes out of the segment body (30), and a channel base opposite the channel head wherein the respective first pin closes a respective sliding channel of the plurality of first sliding channels in a fluid-tight manner between the channel head and the channel base, wherein the segment body (30) is further provided with a first manifold (35) which interconnects the plurality of first sliding channels (31) in fluid communication at respective channel bases of the plurality of first sliding channels.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a ring segment, a transfer ring including the ring segment, and a method for transferring one or more tire components using the transfer ring. Background Technology

[0002] WO 2022 / 130235 A1 discloses a device for gripping an annular component of a vehicle wheel tire. The device has gripping elements circumferentially distributed around a central axis, and these gripping elements are movable relative to a support structure to radially approach the annular component. Each gripping element is provided with multiple probe pins, which are individually and elastically pushed outward by an elastic element, particularly a return spring. The probe pins are brought into contact with the annular component and pushed inward against the force of the elastic element, thereby replicating the shape of the outer surface. The device also includes a grid of brake inserts made of an elastic material with a high coefficient of friction, which are fixed to one or more actuating plates configured to be moved by a thrust actuator, thereby pushing and compressing the brake inserts against the probe pins in a direction transverse to the sliding direction of the probe pins. The probe pins are then locked by friction relative to the gripping elements to prevent further radial inward movement when the probe pins are removed from the inside of the annular component from the support drum. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The known device has the disadvantage that it requires a separate return spring and a separate brake insert for each probe pin, and one or more actuator plates and thrust actuators for each gripping element to push the brake insert against the corresponding probe pin. All of this is solely to prevent the return spring from pushing the probe pin further radially inward when the support drum moves out of the annular component. Considering the known device has six gripping elements, the number of return springs, brake inserts, actuator plates, and thrust actuators is considerable. All these components require maintenance and are susceptible to failure. Therefore, the known device is complex and has high maintenance costs.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a transfer segment, a transfer ring including the transfer segment, and a method for transferring one or more tire components using the transfer ring, wherein the complexity of the transfer segment and / or the entire transfer ring can be reduced, and / or its maintenance requirements can be reduced.

[0005] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a transfer ring segment for transferring tire components, wherein the transfer ring segment includes a plurality of first pins and a segment body, the segment body being provided with a plurality of first sliding channels, the plurality of first pins being slidably received in the plurality of first sliding channels, wherein each of the plurality of first sliding channels has a channel head and a channel base opposite to the channel head, a corresponding first pin of the plurality of first pins extending out of the segment body through the channel head, wherein the corresponding first pin fluidly seals the corresponding first sliding channel of the plurality of first sliding channels between the channel head and the channel base, wherein the segment body is further provided with a first manifold, the first manifold fluidly communicating at the corresponding channel base of the plurality of first sliding channels to interconnect the plurality of first sliding channels.

[0006] When the first manifold is filled with fluid, each first pin can be fluidly connected to each of the other first pins in the plurality of first pins via the first manifold. Specifically, any first pin pushed inward into its corresponding first sliding channel due to contact with the tire component will cause fluid displacement, the amount of which is distributed along the first sliding channel of the first pin that still has degrees of freedom of movement relative to the tire component. Therefore, the plurality of first pins will automatically conform to, adapt to, or replicate the shape, profile, and / or cross-sectional profile of the tire component. Once equilibrium is reached, the transfer ring segment can be removed from the tire component, while the plurality of first pins can be automatically and / or individually held in place by fluid pressure. Thus, the shape, profile, and / or cross-sectional profile of the tire component can be maintained and / or memorized by the first pins. Advantageously, no separate locking element, brake, actuator, or similar device is required to lock the first pins to prevent further movement. Therefore, the complexity and / or maintenance costs of the transfer ring segment can be significantly reduced.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment, the first manifold defines a single chamber that is in fluid communication with all the first sliding channels simultaneously. Therefore, all the first sliding channels can be interconnected through this single chamber, such that each first pin responds to the displacement of the other first pins.

[0008] In an alternative embodiment, the segment body is further provided with a plurality of second sliding channels in which a plurality of second pins are slidably received, wherein the segment body includes a second manifold that fluidly interconnects the plurality of second sliding channels. The first pin and the second pin can be controlled differently from each other, for example to accommodate uneven or non-circular circumferences of the tire component.

[0009] In another embodiment, the first manifold includes a plurality of conduits that fluidly interconnect a plurality of first sliding channels. These plurality of conduits can form interconnected first sliding channels in the same manner as a single chamber, but in a smaller volume.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, each of the plurality of first sliding channels has a cross-sectional area, wherein the transfer ring segment is provided with a constraint element at each of the plurality of first sliding channels. This constraint element constrains the fluid communication between the first manifold and the corresponding first sliding channel to a constrained area, which is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the corresponding first sliding channel. By constraining the fluid communication between the first manifold and the first sliding channel, fluids of a certain viscosity will have difficulty passing through this constrained area. Therefore, a greater force is required to overcome the resistance and move the first pin. Thus, the ratio between the cross-sectional area and the constrained area can be selected such that when the corresponding transfer segment is pressed against the tire component with a certain force, the first pin can move, while when this force is absent, the first pin remains in place.

[0011] More preferably, the constrained area is less than 60% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the corresponding first sliding channel, and more preferably less than 40% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the corresponding first sliding channel. The smaller the constrained area, the greater the force required to move the corresponding first pin.

[0012] In another embodiment, the transfer loop includes fluid within the first manifold. In this embodiment, the first manifold not only receives fluid; it actually retains the fluid. In other words, in this embodiment, the fluid is part of the transfer loop.

[0013] Preferably, the first manifold is completely filled with fluid. Therefore, the first pin's response to displacement in the fluid can be more direct and / or more reliable.

[0014] In another embodiment, the hydraulic fluid has a viscosity of at least one hundredth of a Newton-second per square meter at 25 degrees Celsius. At this viscosity, the hydraulic fluid can be effectively confined between the first sliding channel and the hydraulic chamber below a certain force threshold.

[0015] In another embodiment, the fluid is a hydraulic fluid or a pneumatic gas. Both types of fluid can be displaced by the movement of one first pin, thereby causing the displacement of the other first pin.

[0016] In another embodiment, the fluid is a hydraulic fluid or pneumatic gas, particularly oil, coolant, water, or air.

[0017] In another embodiment, the transfer loop includes a viscosity controller for controlling the viscosity of the fluid in the first manifold. The viscosity controller may be a heater or a cooler. Heating or cooling the fluid may alter its properties, such as its state or viscosity, thereby controlling the resistance to its displacement between the first manifold and the first sliding channel. Alternatively, the viscosity controller may control viscosity in other ways, such as by magnetically attracting ferromagnetic powder in the oil.

[0018] In another embodiment, the first manifold, the plurality of first sliding channels, and the plurality of first pins form a closed hydraulic or pneumatic system. Therefore, any displacement of the fluid caused by movement of one of the first pins can be directly translated into a corresponding movement of one or more of the other first pins.

[0019] In another embodiment, a plurality of first sliding channels extend parallel to each other. Therefore, the first pins can slide into and out of the respective first sliding channels in the same direction.

[0020] In another embodiment, a plurality of first sliding channels are distributed on the segment in multiple rows and columns. Therefore, the plurality of first pins can press against the tire component to conform to its shape in at least two directions parallel to the rows and columns. Specifically, the plurality of first pins can replicate the curvature of the tire component in one direction and the cross-sectional profile of the tire component in another direction.

[0021] In another embodiment, one or more of the plurality of first sliding channels and / or one or more of the plurality of first pins extend in length relative to the other first sliding channels and / or first pins. The extended first pins can move a longer distance outside the segment body and thus can still contact the tire component even if the tire component has a relatively small radius.

[0022] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a transfer ring for transferring tire components, wherein the transfer ring includes a frame extending around a central axis, a plurality of transfer ring segments corresponding to transfer ring segments according to any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the transfer ring segments being distributed circumferentially along the frame around the central axis, and a drive mechanism for moving the plurality of transfer ring segments toward the central axis.

[0023] The transfer ring includes a plurality of transfer ring segments corresponding to the transfer ring segments of the first aspect of the present invention, and therefore has the same technical advantages, which will not be repeated below.

[0024] In one embodiment, the transfer ring also includes fluid redistribution conduits between the transfer ring segments to allow fluid transfer between the first manifolds of the respective transfer ring segments. This fluid transfer can allow pins in one or more transfer ring segments to extend further or closer than other pins in other transfer ring segments, for example, to compensate for misalignment between the transfer ring and the tire component.

[0025] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a method for transferring a tire component using a transfer ring according to a second aspect of the present invention, wherein the method includes the following steps: - A tire component is provided on the radially inner side of the transfer ring; - While the tire component is still radially supported from the inside of the tire component by the drum, multiple transfer ring segments are moved toward the central axis to contact the curved portion of the tire component; - In response to the contact between the multiple transfer ring segments and the bend, the multiple first pins conform to the bend of the tire component.

[0026] This method relates to the actual implementation of the transfer ring of the second aspect of the present invention, and therefore has the same technical advantages, which will not be repeated below.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the following steps: - In response to contact between the multiple transfer ring segments and the cross-sectional profile, the multiple first pins conform to the cross-sectional profile of the tire component.

[0028] In another embodiment, the method further includes the following steps: - Due to the contact between the corresponding transfer ring segment and the curved portion, the first pins of the first pins of the corresponding transfer ring segment in the plurality of transfer ring segments are displaced relative to each other.

[0029] In another embodiment, the method further includes the following steps: - Without any external force acting on the multiple first pins, the first pins of the multiple first pins in the corresponding transfer segments of the multiple transfer segments are fluidly held in place. By holding the first pins in place, the first pins can be used in their preset positions to engage the same or similar tire components.

[0030] In another embodiment, the method further includes the following steps: -Remove the drum from inside the tire components; and - The tire component is held in place using only transfer rings. Since the tire component is not currently supported by a drum, it could collapse or deform under excessive force. However, because the first pins have replicated the shape of the tire component, they can remain in place, safely and geometrically fitting around the tire component without applying excessive force to the tire component itself.

[0031] Preferably, while the tire component is still supported on the drum, a first pressing force is applied to press the plurality of transfer rings against the tire component, wherein when the drum is removed from inside the tire component, the first pressing force is reduced to a second pressing force less than the first pressing force or reduced to zero. By reducing the second pressing force relative to the first pressing force, or by reducing the first pressing force to zero, movement of the first pin due to the pressing force can be prevented.

[0032] In another embodiment, the method further includes the following steps: - Use a transfer ring to transfer one or more other tire components; and - When the corresponding transfer segment contacts one or more other tire components, the first pins of the multiple first pins of the corresponding transfer segment are automatically adjusted according to the shape changes between the tire component and one or more other tire components. In particular, the first pins that have been moved into position to replicate the shape of the tire component during the previous method cycle can be finely adjusted when they contact another tire component with a slightly different shape with a pressing force sufficient to overcome the motion resistance of the corresponding first pin.

[0033] In another embodiment, the tire component is a tread or a belt-tread package. The tread has a non-linear cross-sectional profile with recesses and ridges. The first pin of the transfer ring segment according to the invention is particularly suitable for automatically conforming to, adapting to, or replicating such a cross-sectional profile.

[0034] The various aspects and features described and illustrated in this specification may be applied individually in any possible circumstances. These individual aspects, particularly those described in the appended dependent claims, may be the subject of a divisional patent application. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The present invention will be described based on exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying schematic diagrams, in which: Figure 1 A front view of a tire component, a drum for supporting the tire component, and a transfer ring having a plurality of transfer ring segments for transferring the tire component is shown according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 An isometric view of a segment of the transfer ring in the middle transfer ring; Figures 3A to 3C It shows that according to Figure 2 The cross-section of the transfer ring segment taken at centerline III-III during the step of pressing against the tire component with different curvature; Figures 4A to 4E It shows that according to Figure 2 The cross-section of the transfer ring segment cut at centerline IV-IV during the step of pressing against the cross-sectional profile of the tire component; Figure 5 It shows that according to Figure 3A The cross-section of the transfer ring segment at one of its sliding channels; Figure 6 A cross-section of an alternative transfer ring segment according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 7 A bottom view of another alternative transfer ring segment according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 8A cross-section of another alternative transfer ring segment according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown; and Figure 9 A front view of an alternative transfer ring according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Figure 1 A transfer ring 1 for transferring tire component 9 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0037] The transfer ring 1 is used to transfer tire components 9 between drum 8, such as a forming drum or belt-tread drum, and another station. The other station can be another drum, such as a shaping drum, or a green tire removal unit.

[0038] The transfer ring 1 includes a frame 2 extending around a central axis S and a plurality of transfer ring segments 3 distributed along the frame 2 in the circumferential direction C around the central axis S. The transfer ring 1 also includes a drive mechanism 6 for moving the plurality of transfer ring segments 3 toward the central axis S.

[0039] In this example, frame 2 has a ring shape or annular shape. Alternatively, frame 2 can have different shapes, as long as the transfer ring 1 can be moved to a transfer position in which frame 2 extends around drum 8.

[0040] Furthermore, in this example, the drive mechanism 6 includes multiple actuators, such as linear actuators or servo motors, for individually driving the movement of the transfer ring segment 3 toward the central axis S. Alternatively, a common drive mechanism, such as using planetary gears, can be provided to synchronously drive the movement of all transfer ring segments 3 toward the central axis S.

[0041] The transfer ring segment 3 is movable, wherein at least one vector component is in the radial direction R perpendicular to the central axis S.

[0042] Figure 2 One of the multiple transfer segments 3 is shown in more detail. This transfer segment 3 represents each of the multiple transfer segments 3.

[0043] like Figure 2As shown, the transfer ring segment 3 includes a segment body 30 having a plurality of first sliding channels 31, particularly holes or cylinders. The first sliding channels 31 are formed within or therein the segment body 30. In this example, the first sliding channels 31 are parallel to each other. The plurality of first sliding channels 31 are distributed on the segment body 30 in multiple rows X and multiple columns Y. In this example, rows X and columns Y are perpendicular to each other. Specifically, the plurality of first sliding channels 31 are arranged in a matrix pattern or rectangular grid. In this example, rows X are parallel or substantially parallel to the central axis S, while columns Y extend tangentially to the circumferential direction C. Alternatively, rows X and columns Y may be arranged at an angle to each other.

[0044] Each first sliding channel 31 has an outer end or channel head 33 that is open to or communicates with the outside of the segment body 30. For example... Figure 3A As further shown in the cross-section, each first sliding channel 31 also has an inner end or channel base 34 opposite to the channel head 33.

[0045] like Figure 3A As shown in the best embodiment, segment 30 is further provided with a first manifold 35 for containing fluid H, such as a liquid or gas, like coolant, oil, water, or air. In this example, the viscosity of fluid H at 25 degrees Celsius is at least one hundredth of a Newton-second per square meter (N·s / m³). 2 ) or Pascal second (Pa·s).

[0046] The first manifold 35 is in fluid, hydraulic, or pneumatic communication with the plurality of first sliding channels 31 at their respective channel bases 34. In other words, the first sliding channel 31 is open at its respective channel base 34 to allow fluid H to pass between the first sliding channel 31 and the first manifold 35. Since the first manifold 35 is connected to all the first sliding channels 31 simultaneously, it can be understood that all the first sliding channels 31 are interconnected hydraulically, pneumatically, or fluidly via the first manifold 35.

[0047] like Figure 3A As shown in the best embodiment, the transfer ring segment 3 is further provided with a plurality of first pistons, fingers, or pins 4, which are slidably inserted into and / or accommodated in the plurality of first sliding channels 31. In particular, the number of first pins 41 is equal to the number of first sliding channels 31, such that each first pin 4 can be accommodated in one of the plurality of first sliding channels 31.

[0048] The first sliding channel 31 and the first pin 41 can engage like a piston and cylinder. Specifically, each first pin 4 includes a piston rod 43 that extends through a channel head 33 from the first sliding channel 31 in which the corresponding first pin 4 is received. In this example, all first pins 41 extend from the segment 30 on the same side of the segment 30. The piston rod 43 has a distal or free end extending from the segment 30 through the channel head 33 for contacting the tire component 9 as the corresponding transfer ring segment 3 moves toward the central axis S. In this example, the distal end of the piston rod 43 is slightly rounded, chamfered, or dome-shaped.

[0049] Each first pin 4 also includes a piston seal 44 for fluid-tightly closing a first sliding channel 31 in which the corresponding first pin 4 is received. The piston seal 44 seals the first sliding channel 31 at a location between the channel head 33 and the channel base 34. In this example, the piston seal 44 is wider than the piston rod 43 to prevent the corresponding first pin 4 from moving out of the segment body 30 through the channel head 33.

[0050] Note that the channel head 33 is slightly wider than the piston rod 43 to allow air to escape from the first sliding channel 31 through the channel head 33 in front of the piston seal 44.

[0051] like Figure 5 As shown, each first sliding channel 31 has a cross-sectional area A1. In this example, the first sliding channel 31 has a straight cylindrical or circular sliding channel shape P1 with a sliding channel diameter D1. The transfer ring segment 3 also has a constraint element 37 at each first sliding channel 31 for constraining the fluid communication between the first manifold 35 and the corresponding first sliding channel 31 to a constrained area A2. This constrained area A2 is smaller than the cross-sectional area A1 of the corresponding first sliding channel 31. In this example, the constrained area A2 is less than forty percent of the cross-sectional area A1.

[0052] like Figure 3A As shown, the constraint element 37 is an internal flange integral with the segment body 30. Alternatively, this internal flange can be mounted as a separate element to the segment body 30, extending from the segment body 30 into the corresponding first sliding channel 31. Figure 5 As shown in the best embodiment, the inner flange offsets the sliding channel shape P1 of the cross-sectional region A1 of the corresponding first sliding channel 31 inward to the constrained shape P2.

[0053] The first pin 41 is movable by a stroke Z in its corresponding first sliding channel 31. In this example, the stroke Z is defined by the degree of freedom of movement of the first pin 41 between the constraint element 37 and the channel head 33 of the corresponding first sliding channel 31.

[0054] like Figure 3AAs shown, the transfer ring 3 may optionally include a viscosity controller 5, such as a heater or cooler, for controlling the viscosity of the fluid H in the first manifold 35.

[0055] The combination of the first manifold 35, the plurality of first sliding channels 31, and the plurality of first pins 41 forms a closed hydraulic or pneumatic system. Specifically, when all the first pins 41 are in the intermediate position along their respective stroke Z, as... Figure 4A As shown, the enclosed hydraulic or pneumatic system is completely filled with fluid H. Subsequently, the first pin 41 can move away from its intermediate position in response to contact with the tire component 9. Any first pin 4 pushed inward into its corresponding first sliding channel 31 due to contact with the tire component 9 will cause displacement of fluid H, the amount of which is distributed along the first sliding channel 31 of the first pin 41, which still has a degree of freedom of movement relative to the tire component 9.

[0056] In the example discussed above, the first manifold 35 is formed by a single chamber that is shared by and / or in fluid communication with all the first sliding channels 31.

[0057] Figure 6 An alternative transfer ring segment 103 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, which differs from the previously discussed transfer ring segment 3 only in that its segment body 130 is provided with a first manifold 135 and a second manifold 136, which are respectively fluidly connected to a first set of first sliding channels 131 and a second set of second sliding channels 132 individually or independently, so as to control the movement of the first set of first pins 141 and the second set of second pins 142 individually or independently.

[0058] Figure 7 An alternative transfer ring segment 203 according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, which differs from the previously discussed transfer ring segments 3, 103 only in that its segment body 230 is provided with a first manifold 235, which is formed by a plurality of conduits 238 that interconnect the first sliding channels 31. Note that in this particular embodiment, the constraint elements 237 do not necessarily have to be located at or within the first sliding channel 31. Instead, they may also be located in the conduits 238 leading to the first sliding channel 31.

[0059] Figure 8Another alternative transfer ring segment 303 according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, which differs from the previously discussed transfer ring segments 3, 103, and 203 only in that its segment body 330 is provided with a first sliding channel 331, some of which are formed as extended first sliding channels 331' for receiving extended first pins 341', which may be longer or significantly longer than "ordinary" first pins 341. The extended first sliding channels 331' and the extended first pins 341' are preferably located at the location where the curvature of the tire component 9 is most curved away from the transfer ring segment 303. In these locations, the extended first pins 341' can move a longer distance outside the segment body 330, and thus can still contact the tire component 9 even if the tire component 9 has a relatively small radius.

[0060] Figure 9 An alternative transfer ring 401 according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown, which differs from the previously discussed transfer ring 1 only in that a fluid redistribution conduit 402 is provided between the transfer ring segments 3 to redistribute fluid between the manifolds of the respective transfer ring segments 3. This can be useful when the alternative transfer ring 401 is not perfectly aligned and / or centered relative to the drum 8 supporting the tire component 9. In this scenario, the pin 4 of one transfer ring segment 3 may extend further, while the pins 4 of other transfer ring segments 3 are pressed inward more. Fluid from the transfer ring segment 3 with the inwardly pressed pin 4 can then be transferred to the transfer ring segment 3 with the pin 4 that is less inwardly pressed or extends further. Once all the pins 4 of the transfer ring segment 3 are in positions where they contact or abut the misaligned tire component 9, the fluid redistribution conduit 402 can be disconnected and / or the fluid flow through the fluid redistribution conduit 402 can be interrupted, for example by closing multiple valves 403 in the fluid redistribution conduit 402, after which the transfer ring segments 3 can be operated individually as previously described.

[0061] Now refer to Figures 1 to 5 A brief description of the method of using the transfer ring 1 discussed earlier to transfer the tire component 9 is provided.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, tire component 9 is disposed on drum 8. Transfer ring 1 is positioned around drum 8, or drum 8 is positioned inside transfer ring 1, such that transfer ring 1 extends around tire component 9. In other words, tire component 9 is radially disposed inside transfer ring 1. Figure 2As best shown, tire component 9 has a circumferential shape and / or bend 91 in the circumferential direction C, and a cross-sectional profile 92 in a direction parallel to the central axis S. The cross-sectional profile 92 is non-linear. In particular, the cross-sectional profile 92 may have recesses and / or ridges. More specifically, the cross-sectional profile 92 may be formed by a tread or tread layer that ultimately forms the tread surface of a green tire or uncured tire.

[0063] exist Figure 1 In the case shown, the transfer ring 3 has moved radially toward the central axis S until the first pin 41 of the transfer ring 3 contacts the bend 91 of the tire component 9. At this point, the tire component 9 is still supported on the drum 8.

[0064] like Figure 3A As shown in more detail, the column Y of the first pin 41 now positions itself to conform to or adapt to the bend 91 of the tire component 9, thereby replicating said bend 91. Specifically, the transfer ring 3 is pressed against the tire component 9 with a first pressing force F1, which exceeds the resistance to movement of the first pin 4. Optionally, as Figure 3A As shown, the viscosity controller 5 can be used to reduce or adjust the viscosity of the fluid H, thereby temporarily reducing the movement resistance of the first pin 41 and thus reducing the required first pressing force F1.

[0065] like Figure 3A As shown, when the radius of the bend 91 is relatively small, not all of the first pins 41 contact the tire component 9. Note that, as previously discussed, according to... Figure 8 In another alternative transfer ring segment 303, some of the first pins 341 are extended first pins 341', which may at least partially solve this problem. Figure 3B It shows the relationship with Figure 3A The same transfer ring segment 3 contacts an alternative tire component 9' with a different bend 91' having a significantly larger radius, and all the first pins 41 of the transfer ring segment 3 contact the bend.

[0066] Figure 3C The situation shown is the same as Figure 3A In contrast, drum 8 moves out of the tire component 9 in a direction parallel to the central axis S. The pressing pressure is reduced to less than... Figure 3A The first pressing force F1 and the second pressing force F2 are used to prevent the transfer ring 3 from deforming the tire component 9. Furthermore, the second pressing force F2 can be selected so that it does not exceed the resistance to movement of the first pin 41. Therefore, the first pin 41 can be held in place hydraulically, pneumatically, or fluidly. The second pressing force F2 can also be zero.

[0067] Figure 4AThis illustrates how the first pin 41's X segments are in a mid-position along their respective travel Z before contacting the tire component 9. Alternatively, due to the previous method's repetition, the first pin 41 may still be in a predetermined position corresponding to the cross-sectional profile of the previous tire component (not shown).

[0068] exist Figure 4B In the middle, the transfer ring 3 moves toward the central axis S until at least some of the first pins 41 contact the tire component 9.

[0069] exist Figure 4C In the middle, the transfer ring 3 is pushed against the tire component 9 with greater force until the first pressing force F1 exceeds the motion resistance of the first pin 41, similar to Figure 3A As shown. Therefore, the first pin 41 is adapted to or conforms to the cross-sectional profile 92 of the tire component 9.

[0070] exist Figure 4D In the middle, drum 8 is removed from inside tire component 9 in a direction parallel to the central axis S, similar to... Figure 3C As shown in the diagram. Then, the tire component 9 is gripped, held, or secured solely by the transfer ring 1, i.e., without any support from the radially inner side of the tire component 9. The pressing pressure is reduced to a second pressing pressure F2 to prevent the transfer ring segment 3 from deforming the tire component 9. The first pin 41 is held in place hydraulically, pneumatically, or fluidly, thereby securely and geometrically fitting around the tire component 9 without applying excessive force to the tire component 9 itself.

[0071] exist Figure 4E In this process, the transfer ring 3 is lifted from the tire component 9, while the first pins 41 remain in place hydraulically, pneumatically, or fluidly without external force acting on the plurality of first pins 41. The transfer ring 3 can then move back to contact the same tire component 9, or to contact another similar tire component, for example, during the next cycle of the method. The first pins 41 can respond to Figures 4A to 4D The tire component 9 in the middle automatically adjusts its position based on the slight difference between it and another tire component.

[0072] It should be understood that the above description is intended to illustrate the operation of preferred embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Many variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above discussion, but these variations are also included within the scope of the invention.

[0073] List of reference numerals

[0074] 1. Transfer ring

[0075] 2 Framework

[0076] 3. Transfer segment

[0077] 30 segments

[0078] 31 First sliding channel

[0079] 33 Channel Head

[0080] 34. Channel base

[0081] 35 First manifold

[0082] 37 Constraint Elements

[0083] 41 First Selling

[0084] 43 Piston rod

[0085] 44 Piston Seals

[0086] 5 heaters

[0087] 6. Drive mechanism

[0088] 8 drums

[0089] 9. Tire components

[0090] 91. Bend

[0091] 92 Cross-sectional profile

[0092] 9' Replacement tire components

[0093] 91' Replacement bend

[0094] 103 Alternative Transfer Segment

[0095] 130 segments

[0096] 131 First sliding channel

[0097] 132 Second sliding channel

[0098] 135 First manifold

[0099] 136 Second manifold

[0100] 141 First Selling

[0101] 142 Second Selling

[0102] 203 Another alternative transfer segment

[0103] 230 segments

[0104] 235 First manifold

[0105] 237 Constraint Elements

[0106] 238 catheter

[0107] 303 Alternative Transfer Segment

[0108] 330 segments

[0109] 331 First Sliding Channel

[0110] 331' Extended first sliding channel

[0111] 341 First Selling

[0112] 341' Extended first pin

[0113] 401 Replacement Transfer Ring

[0114] 402 Fluid Redistribution Conduit

[0115] 403 valve

[0116] A1 Cross-sectional area

[0117] A2 Constrained Area

[0118] C. Circumferential direction

[0119] D1 Sliding channel diameter

[0120] D2 Constraint Diameter

[0121] F1 First Press Pressure

[0122] F2 Second Press Pressure

[0123] H fluid

[0124] P1 Sliding Channel Shape

[0125] P2 Constrained Shape

[0126] R radial direction

[0127] S-center axis

[0128] X row

[0129] Y column

[0130] Z route.

Claims

1. A transfer ring for transferring tire components, wherein, The transfer ring segment includes a plurality of first pins and a segment body. The segment body is provided with a plurality of first sliding channels. The plurality of first pins are slidably received in the plurality of first sliding channels. Each of the plurality of first sliding channels has a channel head and a channel base opposite to the channel head. A corresponding first pin of the plurality of first pins extends out of the segment body through the channel head. The corresponding first pin fluidly seals the corresponding first sliding channel of the plurality of first sliding channels between the channel head and the channel base. The segment body is also provided with a first manifold, which interconnects the plurality of first sliding channels in fluid communication at the corresponding channel bases of the plurality of first sliding channels.

2. The transfer ring segment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first manifold defines a single chamber that is in fluid communication with all first sliding channels simultaneously.

3. The transfer ring segment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The segment body is also provided with a plurality of second sliding channels, and a plurality of second pins are slidably received in the plurality of second sliding channels, wherein the segment body includes a second manifold, the second manifold enabling the plurality of second sliding channels to be fluidly interconnected.

4. The transfer ring segment according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first manifold includes a plurality of conduits that fluidly interconnect the plurality of first sliding channels.

5. The transfer ring segment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of first sliding channels has a cross-sectional area, wherein the transfer ring segment is provided with a plurality of constraint elements, the plurality of constraint elements constraining the fluid communication between the first manifold and each corresponding first sliding channel to a constrained area, the constrained area being smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the corresponding first sliding channel.

6. The transfer ring segment according to claim 5, characterized in that, The constrained area is less than 60 percent of the cross-sectional area of ​​the corresponding first sliding channel, and preferably less than 40 percent of the cross-sectional area of ​​the corresponding first sliding channel.

7. The transfer ring segment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The transfer loop segment includes fluid in the first manifold.

8. The transfer ring segment according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first manifold is completely filled with the fluid.

9. The transfer ring segment according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The fluid has a viscosity of at least one hundredth of a Newton-second per square meter at 25 degrees Celsius.

10. The transfer ring segment according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that, The fluid is a hydraulic liquid or pneumatic gas, particularly oil, coolant, water, or air.

11. The transfer ring segment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The transfer loop includes a viscosity controller for controlling the viscosity of the fluid in the first manifold.

12. The transfer ring segment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first manifold, the plurality of first sliding channels, and the plurality of first pins form a closed hydraulic or pneumatic system.

13. The transfer ring segment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The plurality of first sliding channels extend parallel to each other.

14. The transfer ring segment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The multiple first sliding channels are distributed on the segment in multiple rows and columns.

15. The transfer ring segment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, One or more of the plurality of first sliding channels and / or one or more of the plurality of first pins extend in length relative to the other first sliding channels and / or other first pins.

16. A transfer ring for transferring tire components, wherein, The transfer ring includes: a frame extending about a central axis; a plurality of transfer ring segments corresponding to the transfer ring segments according to any one of the preceding claims, the transfer ring segments being distributed circumferentially along the frame about the central axis; and a drive mechanism for moving the plurality of transfer ring segments toward the central axis.

17. The transfer ring according to claim 16, characterized in that, The transfer ring also has fluid redistribution conduits between the transfer ring segments to allow fluid transfer between the first manifolds of the respective transfer ring segments.

18. A method for transferring a tire component using a transfer ring according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The method includes the following steps: - A tire component is provided on the radially inner side of the transfer ring; -While the tire component is still radially supported from within the tire component by the drum, the plurality of transfer ring segments are moved toward the central axis to contact the curved portion of the tire component; and - In response to contact between the plurality of transfer ring segments and the bend, the plurality of first pins conform to the bend of the tire component.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The method further includes the following steps: - In response to contact between the plurality of transfer ring segments and the cross-sectional profile of the tire component, the plurality of first pins conform to the cross-sectional profile.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, The method further includes the following steps: - Due to the contact between the corresponding transfer ring segment and the curved portion, the first pin of the plurality of first pins of the plurality of transfer ring segments is displaced relative to each other.

21. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized in that, The method further includes the following steps: - Without any external force acting on the plurality of first pins, the first pins of the plurality of first pins in the respective transfer ring segments of the plurality of transfer ring segments are fluidly held in place.

22. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that, The method further includes the following steps: - Remove the drum from inside the tire component; and - The tire component is held in place only by the transfer ring.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, While the tire component is still supported on the drum, the plurality of transfer rings are pressed against the tire component using a first pressing force, wherein when the drum is removed from inside the tire component, the first pressing force is reduced to a second pressing force less than the first pressing force or reduced to zero.

24. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 23, characterized in that, The method further includes the following steps: - Use the transfer ring to transfer one or more other tire components; and - When the corresponding transfer ring segment contacts the one or more other tire components, the first pin of the plurality of first pins of the corresponding transfer ring segment is automatically adjusted according to the shape change between the tire component and the one or more other tire components.

25. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 24, characterized in that, The tire component is a tread or a belt-tread assembly.

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