Cutting station and method for cutting tire components from continuous belt

Abstract

The invention relates to a cutting station and a method for cutting tire components from a continuous strip, where the cutting station comprises a cutter for cutting the continuous strip along a cutting line and a cutting table, where the cutting table is rotatable about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the cutting line to adjust a cutting angle, wherein the cutting table comprises a plurality of first holding sections for holding the continuous tape to the cutting table at a first side of the cutting line, wherein each first holding section is switchable between an enabled state and a disabled state independently of at least one other first holding section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cutting station and method for cutting tire components from a continuous belt. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, cord-reinforced tire components are formed by embedding cords into an elastomer material during extrusion. The cord-reinforced extrusion is then cut into oblique parallelograms, and the uncut sides of the oblique parallelograms are stitched together to form a continuous strip, with the cords embedded in the continuous strip at an oblique cord angle relative to its longitudinal side. The continuous strip is then cut to the desired size at a cutting station along a cutting line extending at a cutting angle parallel to the oblique cord angle. The continuous strip is held during cutting. The cutting angle is adjustable to match different oblique cord angles for different continuous strips. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The cutting angle must be adjustable over a wide range to match the various slant cord angles encountered in practical applications. However, depending on the set cutting angle, the shape of the continuous strip immediately upstream and downstream of the cutting line changes significantly. Therefore, it is difficult to reliably maintain the continuous strip as close to the cutting line as possible within a wide range of cutting angles.

[0004] Furthermore, the width of the continuous strip can vary from relatively narrow to relatively wide. Providing a retaining device capable of reliably holding the continuous strip within a wider width range and a wider cutting angle range has proven to be even more difficult. Effectively and / or reliably holding a relatively narrow strip, such as a bead wrap, at relatively sharp cutting angles is particularly challenging.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a cutting station and method for cutting tire components from a continuous strip, wherein the cutting station can maintain the continuous strip more effectively and / or more reliably over a wide range of widths and / or wide ranges of cutting angles.

[0006] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a cutting station for cutting tire components from a continuous strip, wherein the cutting station includes a cutter for cutting the continuous strip along a cutting line at a cutting angle, and a cutting table for supporting the continuous strip relative to the cutter, wherein the cutting table is rotatable about a rotation axis perpendicular to the cutting line to adjust the cutting angle, wherein the cutting table includes a plurality of first holding sections at a first side of the cutting line for holding the continuous strip to the cutting table at the first side of the cutting line, wherein each of the plurality of first holding sections can be switched between an enabled state and a disabled state independently of at least one other first holding section among the plurality of first holding sections.

[0007] As the cutting table rotates, the orientation and / or positioning of the first holding section relative to the cutting line remains constant independent of the cutting angle. Specifically, the first holding section closest to the cutting line can be effectively maintained at the same distance from the cutting line, unaffected by any cutting angle adjustment. Furthermore, by switching the first holding section between an enabled and disabled state, the area of ​​the cutting table that is enabled to hold the continuous strip can be selectively adjusted, thereby optimally matching the adjusted cutting angle and / or the width of the continuous strip. Therefore, it is the combination of the rotatable cutting table and the selectively switchable division of the first holding section of the rotatable cutting table that allows the cutting station according to the invention to hold the continuous strip more effectively and / or more reliably over a wider width and / or a wider cutting angle range.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the cutting table includes a plurality of second retaining sections on the second side of the cut line opposite to the first side, for retaining the continuous strip to the cutting table at the second side of the cut line, wherein each of the plurality of second retaining sections can be switched between an enabled and disabled state independently of at least one other of the plurality of second retaining sections. Therefore, the same principle applied to the first side of the cut line can be applied to the second side of the cut line in the same or similar manner. In other words, the continuous strip can be retained more effectively and / or more reliably over a larger width and / or a larger cutting angle range on both sides of the cut line. This also makes it possible to selectively retain the continuous strip on one side of the cut line while releasing the cut tire component on the other side by disabling the retaining section on the other side of the cut line.

[0009] In another embodiment, the plurality of first holding segments include a first array of first holding segments distributed on the cutting table along a first distribution direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation and the cutting line. Therefore, the first holding segments of the first array can be arranged in a sequence or order, from closest to the cutting line to gradually moving away from the cutting line along the first distribution direction. Depending on the cutting angle, the first distribution direction extends along the width direction of the continuous strip with at least one vector component, thereby allowing the first holding segments of the first array to effectively hold continuous strips of varying widths.

[0010] Preferably, the first holding sections of the first array extend concentrically with respect to the axis of rotation and with each other. Due to this concentric arrangement, the first holding sections of the first array can extend at least partially around the axis of rotation and around each other to provide holding capability for areas of the cutting table that are effective at various cutting angles.

[0011] More preferably, the first holding section of the first array is semi-circular. Therefore, the first holding section of the first array can effectively hold the continuous strip within a semi-circular range about the axis of rotation and at various cutting angles.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the plurality of first holding segments includes a second array of the first holding segments, the second array being distributed on the cutting table along a second distribution direction parallel to the cutting line. Depending on the cutting angle, the second distribution direction extends in a transverse direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation with at least one vector component. Therefore, the first holding segments of the second array may be particularly useful when holding a relatively wide continuous band at a relatively sharp cutting angle.

[0013] Preferably, the second array includes a first group and a second group of first retaining sections, the first and second groups being located on opposite sides of the first array along a second distribution direction. Therefore, the first retaining sections in both groups can be used to effectively retain the sides of a relatively wide continuous band bulging from opposite sides of the first array.

[0014] More preferably, the first and second groups are separated circumferentially by a separation angle of at least thirty degrees, preferably at least fifty degrees, and most preferably at least seventy degrees, around the axis of rotation on the first side of the cutting line. In other words, the first holding sections in the first and second groups are not connected. In particular, the two sides of the continuous strip can be reliably fixed relative to the cutting line as long as the first holding sections in the first and second groups are located near the cutting line. By extending the first holding sections of the first and second groups circumferentially around the first holding sections of the first array, a relatively large unused holding surface is resulted for most continuous strips. Furthermore, holding the continuous strip in the circumferential region between the first and second groups does not offer any significant advantage for the positioning of the continuous strip at the cutting line. Therefore, the separated groups are relatively compact and can reduce the overall size and / or floor space of the cutting table.

[0015] In embodiments including the aforementioned second holding section, the plurality of first holding sections comprise a first array of first holding sections distributed on the cutting table along a first distribution direction perpendicular to the rotation axis and the cutting line, wherein the plurality of second holding sections comprise a third array of second holding sections distributed on the cutting table along the first distribution direction. Similarly, the same principle applied to the first side of the cutting line can be applied to the second side of the cutting line in the same or similar manner.

[0016] Preferably, the second holding sections of the third array extend concentrically with respect to the axis of rotation and with each other. Due to this concentric arrangement, the second holding sections of the third array can extend at least partially around the axis of rotation and around each other to provide holding capability for a cutting table area that is effective at various cutting angles.

[0017] More preferably, the second holding section of the third array is semi-circular. Therefore, the second holding section of the third array can effectively hold the continuous strip at various cutting angles within a semi-circular range about the rotation axis.

[0018] Most preferably, each of the second holding segments of the third array and the corresponding first holding segment of the first array together form a circle. Therefore, the second holding segments of the third array, together with the first holding segments of the first array, can effectively maintain a continuous strip on both sides of the cutting line within a circular range about the axis of rotation and at various cutting angles.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the plurality of first holding segments include a second array of first holding segments distributed on the cutting table along a second distribution direction parallel to the cutting line, wherein the plurality of second holding segments include a fourth array of second holding segments distributed on the cutting table along the second distribution direction. Therefore, the first holding segments of the second array can be distributed along the cutting line to effectively hold continuous strips of varying widths along the cutting line, particularly continuous strips whose width cannot be completely held by the first holding segments of the first array.

[0020] Preferably, each second holding segment of the fourth array is located opposite to a corresponding first holding segment of the third array in the first distribution direction. Therefore, each pair of first and second holding segments in the third and fourth arrays can work together to reliably maintain a continuous strip on opposite sides of the cutting line.

[0021] In another embodiment, each of the plurality of first holding sections includes one or more first holding elements for holding the continuous strip to the cutting table at the respective first holding section. The first holding elements may be arranged at or within the first holding section to hold the continuous strip to the cutting table from below. Therefore, it is not necessary to position the holding device above the continuous strip.

[0022] Preferably, one or more first retaining elements include one or more first suction openings. The first suction openings can be used to reliably retain the continuous strip to the cutting table in a corresponding first retaining section. In particular, when the continuous strip contains fabric cords instead of steel cords, the magnetic retaining elements will be ineffective.

[0023] More preferably, the cutting stage includes a plurality of vacuum chambers, wherein each of the plurality of vacuum chambers is in communication with one or more first holding elements of a corresponding first holding section of a plurality of first holding sections. Therefore, by controlling the connection of a corresponding vacuum chamber to a portion of the vacuum source, all first holding elements of a single first holding section can be controlled simultaneously.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the cutting station includes multiple valves, each of which controls the connection of one or more first holding elements of a corresponding first holding section to a first partial vacuum source. Thus, the valve can be used to effectively switch the group of first holding elements associated with a corresponding first holding section between an enabled and disabled state. When the partial vacuum source is subsequently activated, only the first holding elements of those first holding sections with their valves open are connected to the partial vacuum source and activated to hold the continuous strip to the cutting table.

[0025] Preferably, multiple valves are controlled manually, automatically, or semi-automatically in response to adjustments in the cutting angle. Manual valve control simplifies the cutting station and / or reduces costs. However, at least partially automating the valves reduces changeover time and / or the risk of human error.

[0026] In another embodiment, the cutting station includes a first support member for supporting the continuous strip at a first side of the cutting line, and a second support member for supporting the continuous strip at a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side, wherein the cutting table is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the first and second support members. The support members support portions of the continuous strip that extend beyond the cutting table at both sides.

[0027] In another embodiment, the cutting table can rotate about the axis of rotation relative to a neutral line perpendicular to the axis of rotation, between a maximum positive cutting angle and a maximum negative cutting angle that is opposite to or equal to the maximum positive cutting angle. Therefore, this cutting station can be used to cut tire components with opposite inclined cutting angles.

[0028] Preferably, the maximum positive cutting angle is at least 30 degrees, more preferably at least 50 degrees, and most preferably at least 70 degrees. The larger the maximum positive cutting angle, the sharper the front and rear ends that can be cut.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively, the cutting table includes a central body extending to a first radius and two lateral protrusions extending from the central body to a second radius. The cutting station includes a first support member for supporting a continuous strip at a first side of the cutting line and a second support member for supporting the continuous strip at a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side. The first and second support members protrude beyond the first radius toward and / or to the second radius at the first and second sides of the cutting line, respectively. The shapes of the first and second support members are complementary to the shapes of the two lateral protrusions when the cutting table rotates to a maximum positive cutting angle and when the cutting table rotates to a maximum negative cutting angle. Therefore, the support members can extend to or near the central body, while facilitating the degree of freedom of movement of the lateral protrusions throughout the entire cutting angle range.

[0030] In another embodiment, the cutting table is provided with a cutting groove extending at the cutting line. The cutting groove allows the cutter to penetrate the continuous strip at a certain point along the cutting line to begin cutting.

[0031] Preferably, the cutting groove has a narrow center width at the axis of rotation and widens in both directions away from the axis of rotation. This widening of the cutting groove allows the cutter to deviate slightly from the cutting line to find the path of least resistance when cutting through the continuous belt without colliding with the cutting table. In particular, when the continuous belt is provided with cords, the cutter may deviate from the path when stopped between a pair of adjacent cords.

[0032] In another embodiment, a first side of the cutting line is upstream of the cutting line, and a second side of the cutting line is downstream of the cutting line. Therefore, the first retaining section can effectively retain the body of the continuous strip before cutting and effectively retain the leading end of the continuous strip, which is upstream of the cutting line, after cutting. Similarly, the second retaining section can effectively retain the body of the continuous strip before cutting and effectively retain the rear end of the tire component, which is downstream of the cutting line, after cutting.

[0033] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for cutting a tire component from a continuous belt using a cutting station according to any one of the embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, wherein the method includes the following steps:

[0034] - The cutting angle is adjusted by rotating the cutting table around its axis of rotation;

[0035] - In response to the adjustment of the cutting angle, one or more of the multiple first holding segments are toggled between an enabled state and a disabled state independently of at least one other first holding segment among the multiple first holding segments;

[0036] - The continuous band is held to the cutting table through multiple first holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state; and

[0037] - Cut tire components from a continuous strip along the cutting line.

[0038] This method relates to a practical implementation of a cutting station according to the first aspect of the invention, and therefore has the same technical advantages, which will not be repeated below.

[0039] Preferably, the cutting stage includes a plurality of second holding sections on the second side of the cutting line, wherein the method further includes the following steps:

[0040] - In response to the adjustment of the cutting angle, one or more of the plurality of second holding segments are toggled between an enabled and disabled state independently of at least one other of the plurality of second holding segments; and

[0041] - The continuous belt is held to the cutting table by multiple second holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state.

[0042] More preferably, the method further includes the following steps:

[0043] -Before and / or during cutting tire components from a continuous belt:

[0044] The continuous belt is simultaneously held to the cutting table at multiple first holding sections and multiple second holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state; and

[0045] -After the tire components have been cut from the continuous belt:

[0046] At multiple first holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state, the front end of the continuous belt is held to the cutting table, while the rear end of the tire component is released from the cutting table by temporarily disabling multiple second holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state. The front end of the continuous belt can be held while the tire component is released simply by disabling the second holding sections. The tire component can then be picked up and / or transferred to a downstream tire manufacturing station using an appropriate transfer gripper.

[0047] In another embodiment of the method, in response to the adjustment of the cutting angle, a plurality of first holding segments switch manually, automatically or semi-automatically between an enabled state and a disabled state.

[0048] In another embodiment of the method, the tire component is a cord-reinforced tire component, particularly a bead wrap or a fabric bead wrap. This invention is particularly useful when cutting the cord-reinforced tire component because the cutting angle can be adjusted to match the angled cords embedded in the tire. Furthermore, the bead wrap is a relatively narrow tire component that can be effectively and / or reliably held in place by the cutting station as described above.

[0049] 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

[0050] The present invention will be described based on exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1 An isometric view is shown of a cutting station used to cut tire components from a continuous belt;

[0052] Figure 2 Showing according to Figure 1 A top view of the cutting station, wherein the cutting table of the cutting station is located at the first cutting angle;

[0053] Figure 3Showing according to Figure 1 A top view of the cutting station, with the cutting table at the second cutting angle;

[0054] Figures 4A-4D Showing according to Figure 1 A top view of the holding section of the cutting table, which switches between enabled and disabled states in response to different cutting angles and continuous bands of different widths;

[0055] Figure 5 Showing according to Figure 1 A top view of the holding section of the cutting table, selectively deactivating the holding section to release the tire component from the cutting table;

[0056] Figure 6 Showing according to Figure 1 Side view of the cutting station;

[0057] Figure 7 Showing according to Figure 1 A sectional view of the cutting station before cutting line VII-VII; and

[0058] Figure 8 Showing according to Figure 7 A sectional view of the cutting station after cutting. Detailed Implementation

[0059] Figures 1-6 A cutting station 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Cutting station 1 may be part of a tire manufacturing production line (not shown). Figure 1 As shown, the cutting station 1 is configured to cut tire components 91 from a continuous belt 90 in a manner that will be described in more detail below. The continuous belt 90 is "continuous" because it is produced continuously, thus forming a continuous length from which multiple tire components 91 can be cut. The tire components 91 obtained by this cutting can ultimately be used in a downstream tire manufacturing station to manufacture green tires or uncured tires.

[0060] In this example, the continuous belt 90 has a body of elastomer or rubber material, wherein cords (not shown) are embedded at an inclined cord angle relative to the longitudinal side of the continuous belt 90. These cords can be steel cords or fabric cords. Furthermore, in this example, the tire component 91 is a cord-reinforced tire component, i.e., it has steel cords or fabric cords. More specifically, the tire component 91 is a bead wrap, either a steel bead wrap or a fabric bead wrap. The cutting station 1 according to the invention can alternatively be used to cut other cord-reinforced tire components, such as belt ply fabric.

[0061] like Figure 1As best shown, the cutting station 1 includes an input member 11 for receiving the continuous belt 90 into the cutting station 1, and an output member 12 for discharging the tire component 91 from the cutting station 1 in the output direction E. In this example, the input member 11 and the output member 12 are conveyors, particularly belt conveyors. Alternatively, roller conveyors or other suitable types of conveyors can be used. In yet another alternative embodiment, the input member 11 and / or the output member 12 may be fixed, respectively for receiving the continuous belt 90 and the tire component 91. The cutting station 1 may be equipped with or interact with one or more transfer devices, such as pick-and-place jigs, for handling the continuous belt 90 and / or the tire component 91.

[0062] Cutting station 1 also includes a cutter 2 for cutting the continuous strip 90 along the cutting line L at a cutting angle H relative to the output direction E. The cutter 2 includes a tool 20 for cutting into the continuous strip 90. In this example, the tool 20 is configured to pierce or penetrate the continuous strip 90 at a starting position sometime along the width of the continuous strip 90, and to begin cutting from said starting position up to at least one longitudinal side of the continuous strip 90. More specifically, as... Figure 6 As shown, the cutting tool 20 has a first cutting part 21 and a second cutting part 22, which separates after penetrating the continuous strip 90 and can move along the cutting line L in opposite cutting directions.

[0063] like Figure 6 As shown, the cutting station 1 is provided with a first support member 3 and a second support member 4. The first support member 3 supports the continuous strip 90 at a first side A of the cutting line L relative to the output direction E, and the second support member 4 supports the continuous strip 90 at a second side B of the cutting line L relative to the output direction E, opposite to the first side A. The first support member 3 and the second support member 4 define a support plane P for supporting the continuous strip 90. The cutting station 1 is further provided with a cutting table 5 between the first support member 3 and the second support member 4 for supporting the continuous strip 90 relative to the cutting line L. The cutting table 5 is configured to support the continuous strip 90 relative to the cutting line L in the support plane P.

[0064] In this example, the first side A of the cutting line L is located upstream of the cutting line L relative to the output direction E. The second side B of the cutting line L is located downstream of the cutting line L relative to the output direction E. Therefore, the first support member 3 is located between the cutting table 5 and the input member 11, or at the transition between the cutting table 5 and the input member 11. Specifically, the first support member 3 bridges the gap between the head pulley of the input member 11 and the cutting table 5. The second support member 4 is located between the cutting table 5 and the output member 12, or at the transition between the cutting table 5 and the output member 12. Specifically, the second support member 4 bridges the gap between the tail pulley of the output member 12 and the cutting table 5.

[0065] By comparison Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be best seen, the cutting table 5 is rotatable about a rotation axis X, which is perpendicular to the cutting line L or extends in a direction perpendicular to the cutting line L. Specifically, the cutting table 5 is rotatable relative to the first support member 3, the second support member 4, and / or the base 50 of the cutting table 5. By rotating the cutting table 5, the cutting angle H can be adjusted for optimal matching and / or alignment of the cord embedded in the continuous tape 90. The cutting table 5 is rotatable about the rotation axis X relative to a neutral line Y perpendicular to the output direction E and the rotation axis X, between a maximum positive cutting angle H+ and a maximum negative cutting angle H−, where the maximum negative cutting angle H− is opposite to and / or equal to the maximum positive cutting angle H+. In this example, the maximum positive cutting angle H+ is approximately seventy-five degrees. The maximum negative cutting angle H− is approximately negative seventy-five degrees.

[0066] like Figure 2 As further shown, the cutting table 5 includes a central body 60 extending to a first radius R1. The central body 60 has a circular or substantially circular outline. In this example, the central body 60 is cylindrical or substantially cylindrical. The cutting table 5 further includes a first lateral protrusion 61 and a second lateral protrusion 62 extending from opposite sides of the central body 60 to a second radius R2 greater than the first radius R1. The lateral protrusions 61 and 62 can be used to support a relatively wide continuous strip 90 along the cutting line L when the cutting line L is arranged at a relatively sharp angle with the output direction E.

[0067] The first support member 3 and the second support member 4 protrude beyond the second radius R2 at the first side A and the second side B of the cutting line L, respectively, toward and / or up to the first radius R1. When the cutting table 5 rotates to the maximum positive cutting angle H+ and when it rotates to the maximum negative cutting angle H−, the shapes of the first support member 3 and the second support member 4 are complementary to the shapes of the two lateral protrusions 61, 62. The resulting shape or profile of the support members 3, 4 can be described as part of a planetary gear with a single tooth extending to the central body 60 and having two bottom shoulders that receive the lateral protrusions 61, 62 at the opposing maximum cutting angles H+ / H−. Therefore, the support members 3, 4 can extend to or near the central body 60 while facilitating the degree of freedom of movement of the lateral protrusions 61, 62 throughout the entire cutting angle range.

[0068] like Figure 2As further shown, the cutting table 5 is provided with a cutting groove 7 extending at the cutting line L, along the cutting line L, and / or coinciding with the cutting line L. The cutting groove 7 allows the tool 20 to penetrate the continuous strip 90 at some point along the cutting line L to initiate cutting. Note that the cutting groove 7 has a narrow center width at the axis of rotation X and widens bidirectionally away from the axis of rotation X. In this example, the cutting groove 7 widens linearly. Alternatively, this increase can be non-linear. The widening of the cutting groove 7 allows the tool 20 to deviate slightly from the cutting line L to find the path of least resistance when cutting through the continuous strip 90 without colliding with the cutting table 5. In particular, the tool 20 may deviate from the path when stopped between a pair of adjacent cords.

[0069] like Figure 1 and Figure 7 As best shown, the surface of the cutting table 5 at the second side B of the cutting line L is provided with a chamfer 53 and / or a slight chamfer, which is inclined downward in the direction toward the cutting line L, away from or slightly below the level of the support plane P, in order to reduce sharp angles or edges in the surface of the cutting table 5 that may be cut into as the continuous belt 90 or the tire component 91 moves further in the output direction E.

[0070] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, in this example, the cutting table 5 is provided with a piercing insert 8 at the rotation axis X. The piercing insert 8 is inserted into the cutting groove 7 at the position of the rotation axis X to provide additional support for the continuous belt 90 as close as possible to the rotation axis X at the position where the cutter 20 initially penetrates the continuous belt 90.

[0071] like Figure 2 As further shown, the cutting table 5 includes or is divided into a plurality of first holding sections S1 at the first side A of the cutting line L. In this example, the cutting table 5 also includes or is divided into a plurality of second holding sections S2 at the second side B of the cutting line L. The cutting station 5 is provided with a plurality of first holding elements 51, which are distributed on the plurality of first holding sections S1 for holding the continuous strip 90 to the cutting table 5 at the plurality of first holding sections S1. In particular, each first holding section S1 has or is provided with at least one first holding element 51. In this example, each first holding section S1 has or is provided with several of the plurality of first holding elements 51.

[0072] Similarly, the cutting station 5 is provided with a plurality of second holding elements 52, which are distributed on a plurality of second holding sections S2 for holding the continuous strip 90 to the cutting table 5 at the plurality of second holding sections S2. In particular, each second holding section S2 has or is provided with at least one second holding element 52. In this example, each second holding section S2 has or is provided with several of the plurality of second holding elements 52.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of first holding elements 51 include a plurality of first vacuum cups or first suction openings. Similarly, the plurality of second holding elements 52 include a plurality of second vacuum cups or second suction openings.

[0074] In this example, the retaining elements 51 and 52 are most densely distributed on the cutting table 5 near the center of the cutting groove 7 and / or towards the rotation axis X, while becoming sparser further away from the center of the cutting groove 7 and / or away from the rotation axis X. Therefore, the continuous strip 90 can be most effectively retained at or near the center of the cutting groove 7 where the cutter 20 first penetrates the continuous strip 90. Further away from the center of the cutting groove 7, the effectiveness of retention is less important because the cutter 20 has already traveled between pairs of adjacent cords and is unlikely to jump out of position above the cords.

[0075] The cutting stage 5 further includes a plurality of first vacuum chambers and a plurality of second vacuum chambers, the plurality of first vacuum chambers extending along and / or corresponding in shape to the first holding section S1; the plurality of second vacuum chambers extending along and / or corresponding in shape to the second holding section S2. For simplicity, the vacuum chambers are not shown separately from the holding sections S1, S2. However, it should be understood that these vacuum chambers are formed in or located in the respective bodies 60, 61, 62 of the cutting stage 5, below the respective holding elements 51, 52.

[0076] Specifically, each of the plurality of first vacuum chambers is connected to the holding element 51 of the corresponding first holding section S1. In other words, for each first holding section S1, there is a first vacuum chamber specifically for connecting to all the first holding elements 51 of the corresponding first holding section S1. Therefore, all the first holding elements 51 of the corresponding first holding section S1 are connected to the same first vacuum chamber 53.

[0077] Similarly, each of the plurality of second vacuum chambers is connected to the holding element 52 of the corresponding second holding section S2. In other words, for each second holding section S2, there is a second vacuum chamber specifically for communicating with all the second holding elements 52 of the corresponding second holding section S2. Therefore, all the second holding elements 52 of the corresponding second holding section S2 are connected to the same second vacuum chamber.

[0078] like Figure 1 As shown, the cutting station 1 also includes multiple first switches or first valves 55 and multiple second switches or second valves 56. Each first valve 55 controls the connection of one of the multiple first vacuum chambers to a first partial vacuum source 57. Each second valve 56 controls the connection of one of the multiple second vacuum chambers to a second partial vacuum source 58. Figure 1The number of valves 55 and 56 shown does not represent the actual number of valves 55 and 56. In particular, these valves 55 and 56 are used to operate the first holding section S1 and the second holding section S2 in the lateral protrusions 61 and 62. However, it should be understood that additional valves are provided at, in, beside, or below the central body 60 for controlling the first holding section S1 and the second holding section S2 in the central body 60.

[0079] In this example, the multiple first valves 55 and the multiple second valves 56 are manually controlled. Alternatively, valves 55 and 56 can be automatically or semi-automatically controlled. For example, valves 55 and 56 can switch automatically in response to a signal indicating the adjusted cutting angle H. Valves 55 and 56 can be located at the cutting table 5, within the cutting table 5, or as... Figure 1 The valves shown are located near the cutting table 5, or further away from the cutting table 5, in a separate valve unit.

[0080] Using a first valve 55, a plurality of first retaining elements 51 are switchable between an activatable or enabled state and an inactive or disabled state for each of a plurality of first retaining sections S1.

[0081] In the enabled state, when the cutting station 1 is controlled to hold the continuous strip 90 to the cutting table 5, the first holding section S1 can be activated or has been activated to actively hold the continuous strip 90 to the cutting table 5 at the corresponding first holding section S1. In this example, the switching occurs during a stop of the cutting station 1, while the activation occurs subsequently, during the cutting operation. Alternatively, the activation can occur simultaneously with the switching and / or directly as a result of the switching.

[0082] In the disabled state, while controlling the cutting station 1 to hold the continuous belt 90 to the cutting table 5, the first holding section S1 cannot be activated or remains inactive.

[0083] More specifically, in the activated state, a plurality of first holding elements 51 of the corresponding first holding section S1 are connected to the first partial vacuum source 57 via corresponding first valves 55. The first partial vacuum source may be de-energized during switching. When the first partial vacuum source 57 is activated to provide a partial vacuum, the first holding elements 51 of the corresponding first holding section S1 will communicate with the partial vacuum, thereby holding the continuous belt 90 to the cutting table 5 at the corresponding first holding section S1 by suction.

[0084] Conversely, in the disabled state, the plurality of first holding elements 51 of the corresponding first holding section S1 are disconnected from the partial vacuum source via the corresponding first valve 55. Therefore, when the partial vacuum source provides a partial vacuum, the first holding elements 51 of the corresponding first holding section S1 will not be in communication with the partial vacuum.

[0085] The same principle is used to switch the multiple second holding elements 52, for each of the multiple second holding segments S2, between an active or enabled state and a deactivated or disabled state.

[0086] By using valves 55 and 56, the holding (fixing) capability of the corresponding holding sections S1 and S2 can be selectively or independently enabled or disabled to form an overall holding area that optimally matches the area of ​​the cutting table 5 covered by the continuous belt 90 during the cutting operation.

[0087] In this example, all holding sections S1 and S2 can be independently switched between an enabled and disabled state. However, it should be noted that, in the context of claim 1, not all holding sections S1 and S2 shown in the figures necessarily need to be independently controllable. In fact, some of the innermost holding sections S1 and S2 are always covered by the continuous band 90, regardless of its width. Therefore, the holding sections S1 and S2 closest to the axis of rotation X can always be enabled and / or directly connected to their respective partial vacuum sources 57 and 58 without corresponding valves 55 and 56. Therefore, the "multiple first holding sections" mentioned in claim 1 may refer to selected first holding sections, excluding those first holding sections that cannot be independently switched between an enabled and disabled state.

[0088] By controlling the first partial vacuum source 57 independently of the second partial vacuum source 58, the holding elements 51 and 52 of the holding sections S1 and S2, which have been switched to the enabled state, can be selectively connected to their respective partial vacuum sources 57 and 58. For example, the continuous belt 90 or the tire component 91 can be released only at one side A or B of the cutting line L, while the other of the continuous belt 90 and the tire component 91 can be held at the other side A or B of the cutting line L.

[0089] In the following text, "enabled holding element" and "disabled holding element" will be referred to with reference to the switching states of the holding elements 51 and 52. Furthermore, since holding elements 51 and 52 switch between enabled and disabled states for each corresponding holding segment S1 and S2 as a whole, the state of holding elements 51 and 52 for holding segments S1 and S2 effectively determines the holding capability state of the corresponding holding segments S1 and S2 as a whole. Therefore, "enabled holding segment" and "disabled holding segment" will be referred to below to indicate the holding capability of the corresponding holding segments S1 and S2 and / or the switching states of the holding elements 51 and 52 of the corresponding holding segments S1 and S2.

[0090] In addition, to reduce the complexity of the accompanying drawings, Figures 1-3 The retaining elements 51 and 52 in Figures 4A-4D and Figure 5The middle part is hidden. Instead, the enabled status of the holding sections S1 and S2 is only schematically reflected by different shadow areas Z1-Z5.

[0091] like Figure 2 As best shown, the plurality of first holding sections S1 include a first array N1 of first holding sections S1, which is distributed on the cutting table 5 along a first distribution direction D1, perpendicular to the rotation axis X and the cutting line L. Therefore, the first holding sections S1 of the first array N1 can be arranged in a sequence or order from closest to the cutting line L to gradually moving away from the cutting line L along the first distribution direction D1. In this example, the first distribution direction D1 corresponds to the radial direction relative to the rotation axis X. Therefore, the first holding sections S1 of the first array N1 gradually move away from the rotation axis X in the radial direction.

[0092] In this example, the first holding segment S1 of the first array N1 is formed on, in, or by the central body 60 of the cutting table 5.

[0093] Furthermore, in this example, the first holding sections S1 of the first array N1 extend concentrically with respect to the rotation axis X and with each other. In particular, the first holding sections S1 of the first array N1 are semi-circular or semi-annular. It should be noted that the outermost first holding section S1 of the first array N1 extends concentrically along the circular outer contour of the central body 60 or within the circular outer contour of the central body 60.

[0094] like Figure 2 As further shown, the plurality of first holding sections S1 include a second array N2 of the first holding sections S1, which is distributed on the cutting table 5 along a second distribution direction D2, which is parallel to the cutting line L and / or perpendicular to the first distribution direction D1. Specifically, the second array N2 includes a first group G1 and a second group G2 of the first holding sections S1, which are located on opposite sides of the first array N1 in the second distribution direction D2. In other words, the first group G1 and the second group G2 are separated at a separation angle V in the circumferential direction C around the rotation axis X at a first side A of the cutting line L.

[0095] In this example, the first holding section S1 of the second array N2 is formed on, in, or by the lateral protrusions 61 and 62.

[0096] like Figure 2As further shown, the plurality of second holding sections S2 include a third array N3 of second holding sections S2, which is distributed on the cutting table 5 along a first distribution direction D1 at the second side B of the cutting line L. Similar to the first holding section S1 of the first array N1, the second holding sections S2 of the third array N3 extend concentrically with respect to the rotation axis X. Similarly, similar to the first holding section S1 of the first array N1, the second holding sections S2 of the third array N3 are semi-circular. In particular, each second holding section S2 of the third array N3, together with the corresponding first holding section S1 of the first array N1, forms an annulus, ring, or circle.

[0097] It should be noted that in this example, the second holding segment S2 of the third array N3 is symmetrical or substantially symmetrical with respect to the first holding segment S1 of the first array N1 about the cutting line L.

[0098] Furthermore, the plurality of second holding sections S2 include a fourth array N4 of the second holding sections S2, which is distributed on the cutting table 5 along the second distribution direction D2 at the second side B of the cutting line L. Similar to the first holding section S1 of the second array N2, the second holding section S2 of the fourth array N4 is divided into a third group G3 of the second holding section S2 and a fourth group G4 of the second holding section S2, which are located on opposite sides of the third array N3 in the second distribution direction D2.

[0099] Each second holding segment S2 of the fourth array N4 is positioned relative to the corresponding first holding segment S1 of the third array N3 in the first distribution direction D1. In other words, each second holding segment S2 of the fourth array N4 can form a pair with the corresponding first holding segment S1 of the third array N3 to hold the continuous strip 90 to the cutting table 5 on opposite sides of the cutting line L.

[0100] It should be noted that in this example, the second holding segment S2 of the fourth array N4 and the first holding segment S1 of the second array N2 are symmetrical or substantially symmetrical about the cutting line L.

[0101] like Figure 1 As schematically shown, the cutting station 5 includes a control unit 10, which is electronically, functionally, and / or operationally connected to a portion of the vacuum sources 57, 58 and / or a plurality of valves 55, 56 to control the operation of the cutting station 1 during the cutting process, particularly the operation of the cutting table 5.

[0102] Now refer to Figures 1-6 The method of cutting tire component 91 from continuous belt 90 using the above-described cutting station 1 is explained.

[0103] Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 This shows the cutting table 5 at different cutting angles H relative to the neutral line Y. (Using...) Figure 1 The valves 55 and 56 shown have their holding capabilities selectively, individually, and / or independently switched between enabled and disabled states for the first holding section S1 and the second holding section S2, forming an overall holding area that optimally matches the area covered by the continuous band 90° at a specific cutting angle H. This switching can be performed before, during, or after the adjustment of the cutting angle H, or between cutting operations. As previously described, this switching can be performed manually, automatically, or semi-automatically.

[0104] Figures 4A-4D Different examples of holding regions Z1-Z4 that can be formed in this way are shown.

[0105] Specifically Figure 4A This illustrates the case where a relatively narrow continuous band 90' should be held at a relatively large cutting angle H relative to the neutral line Y to the cutting table 5. Specifically, Figure 4A The cutting angle H corresponds to the maximum positive cutting angle H+. Only the first holding section S1 in the first array N1, adjacent to the cutting groove 7, at the position where the continuous band 90' intersects with the cutting line L, is switched to or maintained in the enabled state, as reflected by the shaded first holding area Z1. In this example, five first holding sections S1 in the first array N1 closest to the rotation axis X are switched to or maintained in the enabled state. Although covered by the continuous band 90', the two outermost first holding sections S1 in the first array N1 remain in the disabled state or are switched to the disabled state. This is because the cutting line L does not intersect the continuous band 90' within the area of ​​these two outermost first holding sections S1 in the first array N1. Therefore, holding the continuous band 90' to the cutting table 5 within the area of ​​these two outermost first holding sections S1 in the first array N1 has no significant effect on the positioning of the continuous band 90 relative to the cutting line L. All first holding sections S1 in the second array N2 are maintained in or switched to the disabled state.

[0106] In this example, the second holding segment S2 of the third array N3 is switched to the enabled state in a manner symmetrical to the first holding segment S1 of the first array N1.

[0107] Figure 4B This illustrates the case where a relatively wide continuous strip 90 should be maintained at the same maximum positive cutting angle H+ to the cutting table 5. It should be noted that, with... Figure 4A The opposite is true, in Figure 4BIn this process, the entire cutting groove 7 is covered by a continuous belt 90. Therefore, the continuous belt 90 is cut along the entire length of the cutting groove 7. Consequently, all the first holding sections S1 and all the second holding sections S2 are switched to or maintained in the enabled state to form a second holding area Z2 covering the entire cutting table 5.

[0108] Figure 4C It shows Figure 4A The relatively narrow continuous band 90' should be compared with Figure 4A and Figure 4B The smaller cutting angle H is maintained at the cutting table 5. Therefore, the cutting table 5 is rotated to adjust the cutting angle H to... Figure 4C The orientation is shown. At the smaller cutting angle H, only a small portion of the cutting groove 7 is covered by the continuous band 90. In other words, the cutting length is relatively short. Therefore, only the first holding section S1, which is closest to the rotation axis X in the first array N1, and the second holding section S2, which is closest to the rotation axis X in the third array N3, are switched to or maintained in the enabled state, as reflected in the shaded third holding area Z3. The remaining holding sections S1 and S2 are maintained in the disabled state or switched to the disabled state.

[0109] As mentioned above, Figure 4C The third holding region Z3 shown is always covered by the continuous band 90, regardless of the width of the continuous band 90. Therefore, alternatively, the third holding region Z3 can always be enabled, for example, by directly connecting the corresponding holding sections S1, S2 to the corresponding partial vacuum sources 57, 58. In this case, to obtain Figure 4C For the third holding area Z3, only the remaining holding sections S1 and S2 need to be switched to the disabled state.

[0110] Figure 4D It shows Figure 4B The relatively wide continuous band 90 should be Figure 4C The smaller cutting angle H shown is maintained up to the cutting table 5. It should be noted that sections S1 and S2 are kept switching between enabled and disabled states to form a configuration similar to... Figure 4A The fourth holding region Z4 of the first holding region Z1, although the continuous band 90 is wider. This is because the smaller cutting angle H significantly reduces the length of the cutting groove 7 covered by the continuous band 90.

[0111] Figure 5 It shows from Figure 4D Starting from the situation shown, the continuous strip 90 is cut along the cutting line L to form the tire component 91. As a result of the cutting, the front end LE is formed on the continuous strip 90 at the first side A of the cutting line L, and the rear end TE is formed on the tire component 91 at the second side B of the cutting line L.

[0112] Figure 6 The cutting tool 20 is schematically shown above the cutting groove 7. During the cutting operation, the cutting tool 20 penetrates the continuous strip 90 at the center of the cutting groove 7, i.e., at the axis of rotation X. Subsequently, the cutting parts 21 and 22 separate and pass through the cutting groove 7 in the opposite cutting directions as indicated by arrows K1 and K2.

[0113] like Figure 4D As shown, before and / or during the cutting of tire component 91 from continuous belt 90, continuous belt 90 is simultaneously held to cutting table 5 at multiple activated first holding sections S1 and multiple activated second holding sections S2.

[0114] like Figure 5 As further shown, after the tire component 91 has been cut from the continuous belt 90, the front end LE of the continuous belt 90 is still held to the cutting table 5 at multiple activated first holding sections S1. Simultaneously, by selectively deactivating the activated second holding sections S2, the rear end TE of the tire component 91 is released from the multiple activated second holding sections S2. The activated first holding sections S1 at this time form a fifth holding region Z5, which is... Figure 4D The fourth region, Z4, is half of the region. Specifically, as... Figure 1 As shown, the second partial vacuum source 58 is deactivated or disconnected from the activated second holding element 52, while the first partial vacuum source 57 remains active or connected to the activated first holding element 51. The deactivation of partial vacuum sources 57 and 58 can be controlled manually, automatically, or semi-automatically, for example, by using the control unit 10.

[0115] In the above method, the first holding segment S1 and the second holding segment S2 switch between enabled and disabled states symmetrically and / or in pairs with respect to the cutting line L. In other words, for each enabled first holding segment S1, there exists an enabled second holding segment S2 opposite to the cutting line L. Alternatively, the first holding segment S1 and the second holding segment S2 may switch between enabled and disabled states asymmetrically and / or independently of the corresponding holding segments S1, S2 on the other side of the cutting line L.

[0116] In particular, reference Figure 5 As shown, after the cutting is completed, alternatively, the second holding element 52 of the second holding section S2 can be used, such as... Figure 1 As shown, switching from the enabled state to the disabled state selectively deactivates the second holding segment S2. This switching can be performed automatically by the control unit 10 during the cutting operation without manual intervention.

[0117] Tire component 91 is now ready to be further transferred or conveyed toward the downstream tire manufacturing station, for example, by picking up tire component 91 from the cutting table 5 using a pick-and-place unit.

[0118] 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 foregoing discussion, and these variations are also included within the scope of the invention.

[0119] List of reference numerals

[0120] 1 Cutting station

[0121] 10 control units

[0122] 11 Input Components

[0123] 12 Output Components

[0124] 2 cutters

[0125] 20 knives

[0126] 21 First cutting section

[0127] 22 Second cutting section

[0128] 3 First Support Component

[0129] 4 Second support member

[0130] 5 cutting tables

[0131] 50 bases

[0132] 51 First holding element

[0133] 52 Second holding element

[0134] 53 chamfer

[0135] 55 First Valve

[0136] 56 Second Valve

[0137] 57 Part 1 Vacuum Source

[0138] 58 Part Two: Vacuum Source

[0139] 60 central body

[0140] 61 First lateral protrusion

[0141] 62 Second lateral protrusion

[0142] 7 cutting grooves

[0143] 8 puncture inserts

[0144] 90 continuous belt

[0145] 90' continuous tape

[0146] 91 Tire Components

[0147] A First Side

[0148] B Second Side

[0149] C circumferential direction

[0150] D1 First Distribution Direction

[0151] D2 Second Distribution Direction

[0152] E Output Direction

[0153] G1 Group 1

[0154] G2 Group 2

[0155] G3 Group 3

[0156] G4 Group 4

[0157] H-cut angle

[0158] H+ Maximum Positive Cut Angle

[0159] H - Maximum negative cutting angle

[0160] K1 First Cutting Direction

[0161] K2 Second Cutting Direction

[0162] L-cut line

[0163] LE front end

[0164] N1 First Array

[0165] N2 second array

[0166] N3 Third Array

[0167] N4 Fourth Array

[0168] P support plane

[0169] R1 First radius

[0170] R2 second radius

[0171] S1 First Maintaining Section

[0172] S2 Second Maintenance Section

[0173] TE backend

[0174] V separation angle

[0175] X-axis of rotation

[0176] Y Neutral Line

[0177] Z1 First Maintaining Zone

[0178] Z2 Second Maintenance Area

[0179] Z3 Third Maintaining Area

[0180] Z4 Fourth Maintenance Area

[0181] Z5 Fifth Maintaining Zone.

Claims

1. A cutting station for cutting tire components from a continuous belt, wherein, The cutting station includes a cutter for cutting the continuous strip along a cutting line at a cutting angle, and a cutting table for supporting the continuous strip relative to the cutter, wherein the cutting table is rotatable about a rotation axis perpendicular to the cutting line to adjust the cutting angle, and wherein the cutting table includes a plurality of first holding sections at a first side of the cutting line for holding the continuous strip to the cutting table at the first side of the cutting line, wherein each of the plurality of first holding sections is switchable between an enabled state and a disabled state independently of at least one other first holding section of the plurality of first holding sections.

2. The cutting station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting table includes a plurality of second holding sections on the second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side for holding the continuous strip to the cutting table at the second side of the cutting line, wherein each of the plurality of second holding sections is independently toggleable between the enabled state and the disabled state.

3. The cutting station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of first holding sections include a first array of first holding sections, the first array being distributed on the cutting table along a first distribution direction perpendicular to the rotation axis and the cutting line.

4. The cutting station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first holding section of the first array extends concentrically with respect to the axis of rotation.

5. The cutting station according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first holding section of the first array is semi-circular.

6. The cutting station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plurality of first holding sections include a second array of the first holding sections, the second array being distributed on the cutting table along a second distribution direction parallel to the cutting line.

7. The cutting station according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second array includes a first group of first holding sections and a second group of first holding sections, the first group and the second group being on opposite sides of the first array along the second distribution direction.

8. The cutting station according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first group and the second group are separated by a separation angle of at least thirty degrees around the axis of rotation at the first side of the cutting line.

9. The cutting station according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of first holding sections include a first array of first holding sections distributed on the cutting table along a first distribution direction perpendicular to the rotation axis and the cutting line, wherein the plurality of second holding sections include a third array of second holding sections distributed on the cutting table along the first distribution direction.

10. The cutting station according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second holding section of the third array extends concentrically with respect to the axis of rotation.

11. The cutting station according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second holding section of the third array is semi-circular.

12. The cutting station according to claim 11, characterized in that, Each of the second holding segments of the third array and the corresponding first holding segment of the first array together form a circle.

13. The cutting station according to claim 9, characterized in that, The plurality of first holding sections include a second array of first holding sections distributed on the cutting table along a second distribution direction parallel to the cutting line, wherein the plurality of second holding sections include a fourth array of second holding sections distributed on the cutting table along the second distribution direction.

14. The cutting station according to claim 13, characterized in that, Each of the second holding segments of the fourth array is located opposite to the corresponding first holding segment of the third array in the first distribution direction.

15. The cutting station according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of first holding sections includes one or more first holding elements for holding the continuous strip to the cutting table at the respective first holding section.

16. The cutting station according to claim 15, characterized in that, The one or more first retaining elements include one or more first suction openings.

17. The cutting station according to claim 16, characterized in that, The cutting stage includes a plurality of vacuum chambers, wherein each of the plurality of vacuum chambers is in communication with one or more first holding elements of a corresponding first holding section of the plurality of first holding sections.

18. The cutting station according to claim 16, characterized in that, The cutting station includes multiple valves, each of which controls the connection of one or more first holding elements of a corresponding first holding section of the multiple first holding sections to a first partial vacuum source.

19. The cutting station according to claim 18, characterized in that, The plurality of valves are controlled manually, automatically, or semi-automatically in response to the adjustment of the cutting angle.

20. The cutting station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting station includes a first support member for supporting the continuous strip at a first side of the cutting line, and a second support member for supporting the continuous strip at a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side, wherein the cutting table is rotatable about the rotation axis relative to the first support member and the second support member.

21. The cutting station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting table is rotatable about the axis of rotation relative to a neutral line perpendicular to the axis of rotation, between a maximum positive cutting angle and a maximum negative cutting angle that is opposite to or equal to the maximum positive cutting angle.

22. The cutting station according to claim 21, characterized in that, The maximum positive cutting angle is at least thirty degrees.

23. The cutting station according to claim 21, characterized in that, The cutting table includes a central body extending to a first radius and two lateral protrusions extending from the central body to a second radius. The cutting station includes a first support member for supporting the continuous strip at a first side of the cutting line and a second support member for supporting the continuous strip at a second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side. The first support member and the second support member protrude beyond the second radius toward or to the first radius at the first and second sides of the cutting line, respectively. The shapes of the first support member and the second support member are complementary to the shapes of the two lateral protrusions when the cutting table is rotated to the maximum positive cutting angle and when the cutting table is rotated to the maximum negative cutting angle.

24. The cutting station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting table is provided with a cutting groove extending at the cutting line.

25. The cutting station according to claim 24, characterized in that, The cutting groove has a narrow center width at the axis of rotation and widens in both directions away from the axis of rotation.

26. The cutting station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first side of the cutting line is upstream of the cutting line, and the second side of the cutting line is downstream of the cutting line.

27. A method for cutting tire components from a continuous belt using a cutting station according to claim 1, wherein, The method includes the following steps: - The cutting angle is adjusted by rotating the cutting table about the axis of rotation; - In response to the adjustment of the cutting angle, one or more of the plurality of first holding segments are switched independently of at least one other first holding segment among the plurality of first holding segments between the enabled state and the disabled state; - The continuous strip is held to the cutting table by the plurality of first holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state; and - Cut the tire component from the continuous strip along the cutting line.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The cutting table includes a plurality of second holding sections on the second side of the cutting line opposite to the first side, wherein the method further includes the following steps: - In response to the adjustment of the cutting angle, one or more of the plurality of second holding segments are switched independently of at least one other second holding segment among the plurality of second holding segments between the enabled state and the disabled state; and - The continuous strip is held to the cutting table by the plurality of second holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state.

29. The method as described in claim 28, characterized in that, The method further includes the following steps: -Before or during cutting the tire component from the continuous belt: Simultaneously hold the continuous strip to the cutting table at the plurality of first holding sections and the plurality of second holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state; and -After the tire component has been cut from the continuous strip: The front end of the continuous belt is held to the cutting table at the plurality of first holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state, while the rear end of the tire component is released from the cutting table by temporarily disabling the plurality of second holding sections that have been switched to the enabled state.

30. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, In response to the adjustment of the cutting angle, the plurality of first holding sections switch manually, automatically, or semi-automatically between the enabled state and the disabled state.

31. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The tire component is a cord-reinforced tire component.

Images