Cutting device for cutting a tire component

Abstract

The utility model relates to a cutting device for cutting a tire component, which comprises a supporting surface for supporting the tire component and a cutter capable of moving along a cutting line so as to cut through the tire component on the supporting surface at the cutting line, the support surface is provided with one or more retaining members for retaining the tire component at or near the cutting line, where the one or more retaining members are arranged to retain a preselection of one or more regions of the tire component distributed in the cutting direction along the cutting line.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the utility model patent application with application number 202320423888.4, application date March 8, 2023, and invention name “Cutting device for cutting tire components”. Technical Field

[0002] The utility model relates to a cutting device for cutting tire components. Background Art

[0003] EP 1 262 288 A2 discloses a device for cutting sections from a multilayer strip of elastomeric material comprising reinforcing cords, the cords being substantially parallel and oriented more or less in the direction of the cutting path, the device being characterized by:

[0004] a) a cutting blade for cutting the strip to form a cut end, the cutting blade having a cutting edge oriented to cut along a line tangential to the one or more cords and inclined at a desired cutting angle;

[0005] b) means for supporting the strip along the cutting path, the means for supporting having a first surface oriented at an angle less than the cutting angle and a second surface oriented at an angle greater than or equal to the cutting angle;

[0006] c) means for constraining the strip against the means for supporting, the means for constraining being located in front of the cutting element; and

[0007] d) Means for moving the cutting element and means for restraining.

[0008] The restraining means is a wheel that rotates and is movable along the same path as the cutting means. The wheel traverses directly in front of the cutting path but at a sufficient distance to enable the strip to be lifted and passed over the cutting blade as the blade traverses. Utility Model Content

[0009] During tire building, tire components (e.g., breaker rubber or rubber strips) may taper toward their lateral or longitudinal edges to form tips or wingtips. Due to their taper, the tips or wingtips may curl at the lateral edges.

[0010] A disadvantage of the known apparatus is that the wheels of the restraining device approach the strip laterally when rolling over the supporting device. As a result, the wheels may damage the strip at the curled wing tip or may even fold the wing tip onto the tire component itself. Since the tire component is usually composed of unvulcanized or uncured rubber strips that are still sticky and / or viscous, the wheels may even sew the curled lateral edges to the tire component itself, thereby irreversibly deforming the tire component. As a result, after the tire component is cut to length, the tire component cut to length may be damaged, run or deformed at or near the cutting line. In other words, the tire component may be damaged, run or deformed at the corresponding leading edge and / or trailing edge. The damage, run or deformation makes the tire component unusable in the further tire building process or may result in poor tire quality.

[0011] Another disadvantage of the known device is that the support device is provided with a vacuum system over its entire width. Therefore, the strip is also held over its entire width. Therefore, when the blade cuts through the strip, the friction between the strip and the blade surface may cause the blade to "bite" into the strip material. The biting of the blade into the strip may cause irregularities, which may negatively affect the quality of the cut or the ability to successfully splice the strip in a subsequent process, which may result in inferior tires. The biting may further damage the strip and / or the blade, requiring the process to be interrupted. In addition, damage to the blade may seriously shorten the service life of the cutting device.

[0012] An object of the utility model is to provide a cutting device for cutting tire components, which can improve the reliability of the cutting process.

[0013] According to a first aspect, the utility model provides a cutting device for cutting a tire component, wherein the tire component has a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge opposite to the first lateral edge, wherein the cutting device comprises a supporting surface for supporting the tire component in a supporting plane, wherein the cutting device also comprises a cutter for cutting through the tire component at a cutting line on the supporting surface, wherein the supporting surface is provided with one or more retaining members for retaining the tire component at or near the cutting line, wherein the one or more retaining members are arranged to retain a preselection of one or more areas of the tire component distributed in a cutting direction along the cutting line.

[0014] For example, the cutting device may be arranged to hold only the lateral area of ​​the tire component. In other words, the central area of ​​the tire component to be cut may be allowed to move slightly when the cutter cuts through the tire component. Thus, the cutting of the cutter into the tire component may be reduced or eventually prevented. As a result, the quality of the cutting process may be more reliable.

[0015] In an embodiment thereof, the cutter is movable in a cutting direction along a cutting line to cut through the tire component.

[0016] In an embodiment thereof, the preselection of one or more regions of the tire component is a first preselection, wherein the one or more retaining members are further arranged to retain a second preselection of one or more regions of the tire component, wherein the second preselection is different from the first preselection. In other words, the configuration of the cutting device can be adapted to the size of the tire component. Furthermore, the cutting device can selectively retain any one or more of the regions.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the cutting device is arranged to selectively hold the tire component at a first lateral region at the first lateral edge. Preferably, the cutting device is also arranged to selectively hold the tire component at a second lateral region at the second lateral edge. In other words, the cutting device is arranged to allow a slight movement of the central region of the tire component relative to the first region and / or the second region. Thus, biting of the cutter can be reduced or eventually prevented.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the one or more retaining members include a first retaining member for retaining the first lateral edge and a second retaining member for retaining the second lateral edge, wherein the first retaining member and the second retaining member are spaced apart in the cutting direction. The retaining members can selectively retain the tire component in the first lateral region and the second lateral region. Preferably, no retaining member is provided in the central region. Therefore, slight movement of the central region of the tire component can be allowed.

[0019] In an embodiment thereof, the first retaining member and the second retaining member can be moved relative to each other in the cutting direction. Thus, the retaining members can each be positioned in a preselected area. Furthermore, the position of the retaining members can be adapted to the transverse dimensions of the tire component.

[0020] In a further embodiment thereof, the cutting device comprises a first setting drive for moving the first holding member. Optionally, the cutting device comprises a second setting drive for moving the second holding member. The first setting drive and the second setting drive can facilitate the positioning of the first holding element and the second holding element.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the tire component is a first tire component, wherein the cutting device is further arranged for cutting a second tire component arranged parallel to the first tire component, wherein the cutting device further comprises a third retaining member and a fourth retaining member along the cutting line for retaining a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge of the second tire component, respectively. Thus, the cutting device can be used for subsequently cutting two tire components arranged in parallel. Thus, the cutting process can be more efficient. For example, this facilitates cutting rubber strips or buffer rubbers which are usually provided in pairs to the tire assembly process.

[0022] In an embodiment thereof, the first holding member and the fourth holding member are arranged symmetrically about a center plane extending transversely to the cutting line, and wherein the second holding member and the third holding member are arranged symmetrically about the center plane, wherein the first setting drive is arranged to simultaneously move the first holding member and the fourth holding member along the cutting line in opposite directions relative to the center plane, and wherein the second setting drive is arranged to simultaneously move the second holding member and the third holding member along the cutting line in opposite directions relative to the center plane. The first setting drive and the second setting drive may, for example, comprise a spindle drive with opposite threads for displacing the corresponding holding members. By simultaneously controlling the positions of the first holding member and the fourth holding member, and the positions of the second holding member and the third holding member, the holding members may be displaced symmetrically about the center plane. In addition, the positions of the four holding members may be controlled using only two drives.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the cutting device further comprises a control unit for controlling the first setting drive and the second setting drive. The control unit can automatically set and control the position of the corresponding holding member.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the one or more retaining members comprise a plurality of controllable retaining elements distributed along the cutting line in the cutting direction and a control unit for selectively actuating one or more of the retaining elements. By selectively actuating one or more of the retaining elements, the tire components can be retained in a preselected area. Preferably, the control unit is arranged to actuate the retaining elements in the first lateral area and / or the second lateral area. The control unit can be arranged to selectively actuate a single retaining element or to actuate a retaining element group simultaneously. By actuating a single retaining element, a higher accuracy can be obtained. By actuating a retaining element group simultaneously, the retaining member can be simpler and / or more cost-effective.

[0025] In an embodiment thereof, the holding element is a vacuum cup or vacuum hole, wherein the holding member further comprises a valve device for selectively applying vacuum to one or more of the vacuum cups or vacuum holes, wherein the valve device is operatively connected to the control unit. The valve device may be arranged to actuate or close individual vacuum cups or vacuum holes, or groups of vacuum cups or vacuum holes.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the cutting device further comprises a pressing device, wherein the pressing device is movable along the cutting line in the cutting direction to press the tire component onto the one or more holding members.

[0027] Each aspect and feature described and shown in the specification can be applied separately wherever possible. These individual aspects can be the subject of a divisional patent application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The present invention will be described based on the exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1-4 shows a cutting device according to an embodiment of the present invention during an exemplary step of cutting a tire component;

[0030] Figure 5 Shown according to Figure 1 Sectional view along line VV;

[0031] Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 2 Sectional view along line VI-VI;

[0032] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 cross-sectional views during further method steps;

[0033] Figure 8 Shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along line VIII-VIII;

[0034] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 cross-sectional views during further method steps;

[0035] Fig.10 Shown according to Figure 4 Sectional view along line XX;

[0036] Fig.11 A cross-sectional view showing an alternative cutting device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Fig.12 A cross-sectional view showing another alternative cutting device according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Fig.13 shows another alternative cutting device according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention; and

[0039] Fig.14 Shown according to Fig.13 Cross-sectional view along line XIV-XIV. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Figure 1-10A cutting device 1 for cutting a tire component 9 according to an embodiment of the utility model is shown. In particular, the cutter 1 is arranged to cut through the tire component 9 from a first longitudinal or transverse edge 91 of the tire component to a second longitudinal or transverse edge 92 thereof. The first transverse edge 91 and the second transverse edge 92 extend in a transverse direction of the tire component 9. Preferably, the tire component 9 is an unvulcanized or uncured tire component, such as a breaker layer insulation rubber or rubber strip.

[0041] In the embodiment shown, the cutting device 1 is arranged for subsequently cutting through two tire components 9. The two tire components 9 are arranged on either or both sides of the center plane C. After cutting, the two tire components 9 can, for example, be applied simultaneously to a tire building drum (not shown), such as a carcass drum. The respective longitudinal directions of the tire components 9 extend parallel or substantially parallel.

[0042] like Figure 1-4 As best shown, the cutting device 1 comprises a support surface 20 for supporting a tire component 9. The support surface 20 extends in a support plane P. The cutting device 1 further comprises a cutter 8 for cutting through the tire component 9 along a cutting line K. The cutting line K extends across the support plane P in a cutting direction Y. The cutter 8 may, for example, comprise an ultrasonic blade or a heated knife.

[0043] In the embodiment shown, the cutter 8 is a blade. The cutter 8 comprises a blade body 80 having a first blade surface 81 terminating in a cutting edge 83 and a second blade surface 82. The second blade surface 82 is located opposite to the first blade surface 81 relative to the blade body 80. The first blade surface 81 faces away from the support plane P. Therefore, the second blade surface 82 faces the support plane P.

[0044] like Figure 1-4 As can be best seen, the cutting edge 83 extends away from the cutting line K at an oblique blade angle on a first side of said cutting line K. The blade angle is defined about an axis perpendicular to the support plane P. Figure 5-10 As shown, the cutting edge 83 further extends at an acute cutting angle relative to the support plane P. Thus, when the cutter 8 cuts through the tire component 9, downstream of the cutter 8 in the cutting direction Y, an inclined leading edge LE is formed to the tire component 9 on a first side of the cutting line K. Thus, a reversely inclined trailing edge TE is formed to the elastomeric profile 9 on a second side of the cutting line K opposite to the first side.

[0045] In the embodiment shown, the cutting device 1 comprises two conveyors 2 for conveying tire components 9 in a conveying direction T. Preferably, the respective longitudinal directions of the tire components 9 coincide with the conveying direction T. The conveyors 2 form part of a support surface 20. Additionally or alternatively, the cutting device 1 may, for example, be provided with a cutting table to constitute at least part of the support surface 20.

[0046] like Figure 1-10 As further shown, the cutting device 1 comprises a first holding member 31 and a second holding member 32 for holding a first tire component of the two tire components 9 during cutting of the two tire components 9. The cutting device 1 further comprises a third holding member 33 and a fourth holding member 34 for holding a second tire component of the two tire components 9 or another tire component during cutting of the tire component 9. In particular, the first holding member 31, the second holding member 32, the third holding member 33 and the fourth holding member 34 form a part of the support surface 20. In other words, the support surface 20 is provided with the first holding member 31, the second holding member 32, the third holding member 33 and the fourth holding member 34. The first holding member 31, the second holding member 32, the third holding member 33 and the fourth holding member 34 are arranged along the cutting line K.

[0047] In this particular embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth holding members 31, 32, 33, and 34 are arranged upstream of the cutting line K in the conveying direction T. The cutting device 1 further comprises a clamping element 5, such as a clamping bar or a clamping roller, for clamping the tire component downstream of the cutting line K in the conveying direction T. Alternatively, the holding members 31, 32, 33, 34 may be arranged at the cutting line or downstream of the cutting line K in the conveying direction T.

[0048] like Figure 5-10 As best shown, the first holding member 31 and the second holding member 32 are movable relative to each other in the cutting direction Y. In particular, the first holding member 31 is movable in the cutting direction Y to position the first holding member 31 at the first lateral edge 91. The first holding member 31 is arranged to hold the first lateral area Z1 of the tire component 9 at the first lateral edge 91. Therefore, the second holding member 32 is movable in the cutting direction Y to position the second holding member 32 at the second lateral edge 92. The second holding member 32 is arranged to hold the second lateral area Z2 of the tire component 9 at the second lateral edge 92.

[0049] As in Figure 6-10 As can be further seen in the figure, the central region Z0 of the tire component 9 is defined between the first lateral region Z1 and the second lateral region Z2 in the cutting direction Y. The central region Z0 is not directly held by the first holding member 31 or the second holding member 32. Instead, the central region Z0 may be allowed to move slightly relative to the first lateral region Z1 and the second lateral region Z2. For example, the central region Z0 may be locally extended or compressed in the cutting direction Y in response to the cutter 8 cutting through the tire component 9.

[0050] Preferably, if Figure 5-10As best shown, the first transverse edge 91 is aligned along a transverse reference line R. Thus, the first retaining member 31 may be positioned at said transverse reference line R. The second transverse edge 92 may be positioned according to a predetermined width of the tire component 9 between the first transverse edge 91 and the second transverse edge 92. Alternatively, the respective positions of the first retaining member 31 and the second retaining member 32 along the cutting line may be adjusted, for example, manually, i.e., by an operator of the cutting device 1.

[0051] In this particular embodiment, the cutting device comprises a first setting drive 35 for driving the first holding member 31 to move back and forth in the cutting direction Y. The first setting drive 35 comprises a first spindle 37 and an associated first spindle nut 331. The first spindle nut 331 is movable in the cutting direction Y by rotation of the first spindle 37. The first spindle nut 331 is coupled to the first holding member 31 for moving the first holding member 31 in the cutting direction Y.

[0052] Accordingly, the cutting device 1 comprises a second setting drive 36 for driving a movement of the second holding member 32 in the cutting direction Y. The second setting drive 36 comprises a second spindle 38 and an associated second spindle nut 332 which is coupled to the second holding member 32 .

[0053] Alternatively, the first and second spindle nuts 331 and 332 may be coupled to a single spindle having opposite threads at the first and second spindle nuts 331 and 332. Therefore, the first and second spindle nuts 331 and 332 may be moved relative to each other using only a single spindle.

[0054] Similar to the first holding member 31 and the second holding member 32, the third holding member 33 and the fourth holding member 34 may also be movable relative to each other in the cutting direction Y. The third holding member 33 may be movable in the cutting direction Y to position the third holding member 33 at the first lateral edge 91 of the second tire component 9. Correspondingly, the fourth holding member 34 may be movable in the cutting direction Y to position the fourth holding member 34 at the second lateral edge 92 of the second tire component 9. In particular, the third holding member 33 and the fourth holding member 34 are arranged to hold the first lateral zone Z1 and the second lateral zone Z2 of the second tire component 9 at the second lateral edge 92 of the second tire component 9, respectively. Preferably, the second lateral edge 92 of the second tire component 9 is aligned with another lateral reference line R.

[0055] exist Figure 5-10In the illustrated embodiment, the third holding member 33 is coupled to a third spindle nut 333 associated with the second spindle 38. Accordingly, the fourth holding member 34 is coupled to a fourth spindle nut 334 associated with the first spindle 37. In other words, the first setting driver 35 is arranged to simultaneously adjust the respective positions of the first holding member 31 and the fourth holding member 34 in the cutting direction Y. Accordingly, the second setting driver 36 is arranged to simultaneously adjust the respective positions of the second holding member 32 and the third holding member 33 in the cutting direction Y. The first spindle 37 has reverse or opposite threads on the respective sides of the center plane C, so that the rotation of the spindle 37 causes the first holding member 31 and the fourth holding member 34 to move in opposite directions along the cutting line K. Similarly, the second holding member 32 and the third holding member 33 are arranged to move in opposite directions along the cutting line when the second spindle 38 rotates. Preferably, the first holding member 31 and the fourth holding member 34 are arranged to move symmetrically about the center plane C. Accordingly, the second holding member 32 and the third holding member 33 are arranged to move symmetrically about the center plane C.

[0056] The first holding member 31, the second holding member 32, the third holding member 33 and the fourth holding member 34 each include one or more holding elements 30 for holding the corresponding tire component 9. The holding elements 30 may, for example, include vacuum cups, vacuum holes or vacuum holes. Preferably, the vacuum cups, vacuum holes or vacuum holes have an increased diameter or surface area at the support plane P. In other words, the corresponding openings of the vacuum cups, vacuum holes or vacuum holes into the support plane P have an increased diameter or surface area compared to the diameter or surface area below the support plane P. This can reduce the vacuum force required to hold the tire component 9.

[0057] Alternatively, the retaining element may, for example, comprise a retractable needle. When handling tire components comprising metal reinforcing cords, the retaining element may, for example, comprise a magnet. When handling tacky or sticky tire components, particularly uncured or unvulcanized tire components (e.g., breaker layer insulation or rubber strips), the retaining element 30 may comprise a smooth or polished metal surface. In particular, the retaining element 30 may comprise a retaining surface having better adhesion than the surrounding support surface 20.

[0058] like Figure 1-10 As shown, the cutting device 1 further comprises a pressing device 4 for pressing the tire component 9 onto the first holding member 31, the second holding member 32, the third holding member 33 and the fourth holding member 34. In particular, the pressing device 4 is arranged to press the tire component 9 onto the first holding member 31, the second holding member 32, the third holding member 33 and the fourth holding member 34 in a pressing direction B towards the support plane P. The pressing direction B is transverse to or perpendicular to the support plane P.

[0059] The pressing device 4 is movable along the cutting line K in the cutting direction Y. Preferably, the pressing device 4 is movable along the cutting line K together with the cutter 8. In this embodiment, the cutting device 1 comprises a common base 44 for supporting the cutter 8 and the pressing device 4. The common base 44 is movable along the cutting line K in the cutting direction Y. Alternatively, the pressing device 4 is movable along the cutting line K independently of the cutter 8. Thus, the pressing device 4 can press the tire component 9 to the corresponding holding member 31, 32, 33, 34 before cutting.

[0060] The pressing device 4 comprises a pressing roller or wheel 40 which is rotatable about a rotation axis which is transverse or perpendicular to the cutting line K. The rotation axis extends parallel to or substantially parallel to the support plane P. Preferably, the pressing roller or wheel 40 is freely rotatable about its rotation axis. The pressing roller or wheel 40 is arranged to roll over the tire component 9 in the cutting direction K while applying pressure to the pressing roller or wheel 40 in the pressing direction B.

[0061] like Figure 7 and 8 As best shown in FIG. 4 , the pressing device 4 is movable in a pressing direction B towards the support plane P and in a clearance direction A away from the support plane P. The clearance direction A is transverse or perpendicular to the support plane P. Preferably, the clearance direction A is opposite to the pressing direction B.

[0062] like Figure 5-8 As shown, the tire component 9 forms a wing or wing tip W at its first lateral edge 91. The wing or wing tip W is curled upward, that is, curled away from the support plane P. The pressing device 4, in particular the pressing roller or pressing wheel 40, can be moved in the gap direction A to a gap position spaced apart from the support plane P at a gap height H. Preferably, the gap height H is large enough to allow the pressing roller or pressing wheel 40 to move in the cutting direction Y without colliding with the wing or wing tip W of the tire component 9. The gap height H can be, for example, a predetermined and / or preset height. Alternatively, the cutting device 1 can include one or more sensors (not shown) for measuring a required height, for example, the height of the wing or wing tip W relative to the support plane P. Therefore, the gap height H can be set to be equal to or higher than the measured required height. Preferably, the gap height H is greater than five millimeters to allow the pressing device 4 (in particular the pressing roller or pressing wheel 40) to pass over the wing tip W. Preferably, the gap height H is between ten and one hundred millimeters. More preferably, the gap height H is between twenty and eighty millimeters. Most preferably, the gap height H is between twenty-five and sixty millimeters.

[0063] like Figure 5-10As further shown, the cutting device 1 includes a pressing drive 41 for driving the movement of the pressing device 4 in the pressing direction B and the gap direction A. In particular, the pressing drive 41 is arranged to drive the pressing roller or pressing wheel 40 in the pressing direction B and the gap direction A relative to the common base 44. The pressing drive 41 can, for example, include a linear drive, such as a cylinder. Alternatively, the pressing drive 41 can, for example, include a servo motor and / or a crankshaft, a camshaft or a cam gear to realize the movement of the pressing device 4 in the pressing direction B and the gap direction A.

[0064] The cutting device 1 further comprises a transverse drive 42 for driving the pressing device 4 in the cutting direction Y. In particular, the transverse drive 42 is arranged for driving the common base 44 in the cutting direction Y. Alternatively, when the cutter 8 and the pressing device 4 are movable separately in the cutting direction Y, the cutting device 1 may additionally comprise a transverse cutter drive (not shown) for driving the cutter to move in the cutting direction Y.

[0065] like Figure 6-10 As further shown, the cutting device 1 also includes a control unit 7. In this exemplary embodiment, the control unit 7 is operatively and / or functionally connected to the pressing drive 41, the transverse drive 42, the first setting drive 35 and the second setting drive 36. The cutting device 1 may also include one or more sensors (not shown) for detecting the first transverse edge 91. The one or more sensors are also operatively connected to the control unit 7. The one or more sensors may, for example, include a linear camera or a probe.

[0066] The control unit 7 is arranged to position the holding members 31, 32, 33, 34 at respective lateral zones Z1, Z2 of the tire component 9. The control unit 7 may for example be arranged to control the first lateral drive 35 to position the first holding member 31 and the fourth holding member 34 along respective lateral reference lines R. Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 7 may be arranged to position the first holding member 31 and the fourth holding member 34 along a first lateral edge 91 of the first tire component 9 and a second lateral edge 92 of the second tire component 9 in response to signals of one or more sensors.

[0067] The control unit 7 may further be arranged to control the second transverse drive 36 to position the second holding member 32 and the third holding member 33 at the respective second transverse zone Z2 of the first tire component 9 and the first transverse zone Z1 of the second tire component 9. The control unit 7 may for example be arranged to position the holding member 32 and the third holding member 33 at a predetermined distance relative to the first holding member 31 and the fourth holding member 34, respectively. The control unit 7 may for example derive from a predetermined or measured width of the tire component 9 to determine the predetermined distance.

[0068] The control unit 7 is further arranged to control the pressing drive 41 so that the pressing device 4 moves from the gap position in the pressing direction B, thereby pressing the first lateral edge 91 of the first tire component, in particular the wing or wing tip W, onto the first retaining member 31. In particular, the control unit 7 is arranged to control the pressing drive 41 so as to move the pressing device 4 in the pressing direction B at or near the lateral reference line R. In addition, the control unit 7 may be operatively connected to one or more sensors to measure the required height. Preferably, the control unit 7 is arranged to set the gap height H in response to the measured required height.

[0069] Preferably, the control unit 7 controls the transverse driver 42 and the pressing driver 41 to achieve movement of the pressing device 4 in the pressing direction B, thereby pressing the first transverse edge 91 against the first holding member 31 .

[0070] Now we will use Figure 1-10 The method for cutting the tire component 9 is further discussed.

[0071] like Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, two tire components 9 have been placed on the support surface 20 at the cutting line K. The tire components 9 may, for example, have been transported in the conveying direction T past the cutting line K by a conveyor 2 upstream of the cutting line K in the conveying direction T. The tire components 9 are each located on a respective side of the center plane C. In particular, the tire components 9 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center plane C. A first lateral edge 91 of the first tire component 9 has been aligned with the reference line R. Correspondingly, a second lateral edge 92 of the second or further tire component 9 has been aligned with the second or further reference line R. Downstream of the cutting line K in the conveying direction T, the tire components 9 are clamped by the clamping element 5.

[0072] like Figure 2 and 6 As shown, the holding members 31, 32, 33, 34 have been moved to the corresponding lateral edges 91, 92 of the tire component. In particular, the first setting driver 35 is driven to move the first holding member 31 and the fourth holding member 34 in opposite directions along the cutting direction Y. The first holding member 31 and the fourth holding member 34 are moved to align with the corresponding reference line R. Correspondingly, the second setting driver 36 is driven to move the second holding member 32 and the third holding member 33 in opposite directions along the cutting direction Y. Preferably, the positions of the holding members 31, 32, 33, 34 along the cutting line K are pre-set based on the size of the tire component 9. Therefore, when accommodating tire components 9 with different widths in the cutting direction Y and / or tire components with different mutual spacings in the cutting direction Y, it is only necessary to move the holding members 31, 32, 33, 34.

[0073] like Figure 7 As shown, the pressure roller or pressure wheel 40 has been positioned in a gap position at a gap height H relative to the support plane P. In particular, the pressure drive 41 has been activated to move the pressure roller or pressure wheel 40 in the gap direction A towards the gap position.

[0074] like Figure 3 and 8 As shown, the pressing device 4 has been displaced in the cutting direction Y towards the first transverse edge 91 of the first tire component 9. In particular, the pressing roller or pressing wheel 40 has been displaced in the cutting direction Y to a predetermined position relative to the transverse reference line R. Figure 8 As best shown, in the predetermined position, the pressing roller or wheel 40 is positioned over the wing tip W of the tire component 9 .

[0075] Next, if Fig. 9 As shown, the pressing drive 41 has been actuated to displace the pressing device 4 in the pressing direction B. The pressing roller or wheel 40 has pressed the first lateral edge 91 or wing tip W onto the first holding element 31. The first holding element 31 now at least partially holds the first lateral zone Z1 of the tire component 9.

[0076] like Figure 4 and 10 As further shown, the pressing device 4 has been displaced further in the cutting direction Y. The pressing device 4 now presses the second lateral region Z2 of the tire component 9 onto the second holding element 32. Accordingly, the cutter 8 has been displaced together with the pressing device 4 in the cutting direction Y. Figure 4 As best shown, the cutter 9 cuts into the tire component 8 along the cutting line K, thereby forming the leading edge LE and the trailing edge TE on respective sides of the cutting line K.

[0077] After the first tire component 9 is cut, the above steps are repeated for the second tire component 9. Then, the cutter 8 and the pressing device 4 return to their initial positions. Subsequently, the tire component 9 can be transferred in the conveying direction T and the entire cutting process can be repeated.

[0078] Optionally, when the holding element 30 comprises a vacuum cup or a vacuum hole, the method may further comprise the step of applying a positive pressure to the vacuum cup or vacuum hole. In particular, a gaseous medium (preferably air) is supplied to the vacuum cup or vacuum hole. The gaseous medium may help release the tire component 9 from the holding element 30. In addition, the gaseous medium may remove accumulated debris or dirt from the vacuum cup or vacuum hole.

[0079] Fig.11An alternative cutting device 101 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown. The cutting device 101 differs from the previously discussed cutting device 1 in that it comprises an alternative retaining member 103 .

[0080] The holding member 103 comprises a plurality of holding elements 30 for holding the tire component 9. The holding elements 30 are distributed along the cutting line K. Preferably, the holding elements 30 are evenly distributed along the cutting line K. In other words, the holding elements 30 are equally spaced. The holding elements 30 are selectively controlled by a control unit 107. The control unit 107 is arranged to actuate the holding elements 30 in the first lateral zone Z1 and the second lateral zone Z2 of the tire component 9. Preferably, the holding elements 30 in the central zone Z0 are not actuated to allow the central zone Z0 to move relative to the first lateral zone Z1 and the second lateral zone Z2.

[0081] In the embodiment shown, the holding element 30 is a vacuum hole or a vacuum cup. Alternatively, the holding element 30 is, for example, a retractable needle that can be driven in a tire component, or a magnet that can hold a tire component including an embedded metal cord. The cutting device 1 also includes a valve device 130 for selectively operating one or more of the holding elements 30. The valve device 130 is operatively connected to the control unit 107.

[0082] Fig.12 A further alternative cutting device 201 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown. The cutting device 201 differs from the initially described cutting device 1 in that it comprises an alternative pressing device 204 and a guide system 206 for guiding said pressing device 204. The guide system 206 replaces the pressing drive 41 .

[0083] like Fig.12 As shown, the guide system 206 comprises two guide rails 261 arranged along the cutting line K. In particular, the guide rails 261 are arranged above the support plane P in the gap direction A. The pressing device 204 is freely movable in the gap direction A and the pressing direction B relative to the common base 244. The pressing device 204 comprises two guide followers 241, each of which cooperates with a corresponding one of the guide rails 261 to move the pressing device 204 in the gap direction A and the pressing direction B relative to the common base 244.

[0084] The guide rails 261 each extend along a guide rail path. The guide rail path is defined as a height profile relative to the support plane P. The height profile is designed to lift the pressing device 204 in the gap direction A upstream of the transverse reference line R in the cutting direction Y over the gap height H. The height profile is also designed to push the pressing device 204 in the pressing direction B at or near the transverse reference line R.

[0085] Preferably, the pressing device 204 further comprises a biasing element 243 for applying a biasing force to the tire component 9 in the pressing direction B. By allowing the pressing device 204 to shift in the gap direction against the biasing force, the biasing element 243 can also take into account the thickness variation of the tire component 9 in the gap direction A. Figure 5-11 Not shown in FIG, but the previously described cutting devices 1, 101 may be provided with a similar biasing element.

[0086] Fig.13 and 14 A further alternative cutting device 301 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown. The cutting device 301 differs from the initially discussed cutting device 1 in that the cutting device 301 comprises a multi-disc roller 306 for each tire component 9 for pressing the tire component 9 towards the support plane P and / or onto the support surface 20. Two multi-disc rollers 306 are located in the conveying direction T at the detection position upstream of the cutting line K.

[0087] The multi-disk rollers 306 each extend along a neutral axis D. The neutral axis D extends transversely or perpendicularly to the transport direction T. Preferably, the neutral axis D extends parallel to the support plane P. In the embodiment shown, the neutral axes D of two multi-disk rollers 306 are collinear or aligned.

[0088] like Fig.14 As best seen in FIG. 1 , each multi-disc roller 306 includes a plurality of rotatable disks that are individually and / or independently movable relative to a neutral axis D. In particular, the rotatable disks are movable relative to the neutral axis in a direction away from the support plane P. Preferably, the rotatable disks are movable back and forth in a pressing direction B.

[0089] Each multi-disc roller 306 is arranged for pressing the respective tire component 9 onto the support surface 20. In particular, the multi-disc roller 306 is arranged for pressing the first lateral edge 91 and / or the second lateral edge 92 onto the support surface 20. Accordingly, the multi-disc roller 306 is arranged for at least temporarily restraining the wing tip W at the lateral edges 91, 92 of the tire component 9. In the illustrated embodiment, the multi-disc roller 306 is arranged for pressing the tire component 9 onto the support surface 20 along the entire width of the respective tire component 9.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the rotatable discs of the multi-disc roller 306 are movable under the influence of gravity. In other words, the multi-disc roller 306 is arranged to press the tire component 9 against the support surface 20 by applying the weight of the discs to the tire component 9. Alternatively, the rotatable discs may be biased toward the support surface 20, such as being spring-loaded. As a further alternative, the rotatable discs may be actuated to move away from and toward the support surface 20.

[0091] The cutting device 301 is further provided with lateral sensors 371, 372, 373, 374 for detecting respective lateral edges 91, 92 of the tire components. In particular, the first lateral sensor 371 is arranged for detecting the first lateral edge 91 of the first tire component 9, the second lateral sensor 372 is arranged for detecting the second lateral edge 92 of the first tire component 9, the third lateral sensor 373 is arranged for detecting the first lateral edge 91 of the second tire component 9 and the fourth lateral sensor 374 is arranged for detecting the second lateral edge 92 of the second tire component 9. The lateral sensors 371, 372, 373, 374 are functionally, operatively or electronically connected to the control unit 307. In a similar manner as described above, the control unit 307 may be arranged to position the first retaining member 31 and the fourth retaining member 34 along the first lateral edge 91 of the first tire component 9 and the second lateral edge 92 of the second tire component 9, respectively, in response to signals of the first sensor 371 and the fourth sensor 374. In addition, the control unit 307 can be arranged to position the second retaining member 32 and the third retaining member 33 along the second lateral edge 92 of the first tire component 9 and the first lateral edge 91 of the second tire component 9, respectively, in response to the signals of the second sensor 372 and the third sensor 373. It should be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of the preferred embodiment and is not meant to limit the scope of the present invention. From the above discussion, many variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and these variations will still be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0092] In summary, the utility model relates to a cutting device for cutting tire components, wherein the cutting device comprises a supporting surface for supporting the tire components, a cutter movable along a cutting line to cut through the tire components on the supporting surface, and a pressing device movable along the cutting line to press the tire components onto the supporting surface, wherein the cutting device is arranged to move the pressing device from a first position at the supporting plane to a second position at a gap height from the supporting plane in a gap direction transversely or perpendicular to the supporting plane, and to move from the second position toward the first position in a pressing direction opposite to the gap direction.

[0093] Reference numerals:

[0094] 1 cutting device;

[0095] 2 Transmitters;

[0096] 20 Support surface;

[0097] 30 holding element;

[0098] 31 first retaining member;

[0099] 32 second retaining member;

[0100] 33 a third retaining member;

[0101] 34 fourth retaining member;

[0102] 35 first setting drive;

[0103] 36 second setting drive;

[0104] 37 first spindle;

[0105] 38 Second main axis;

[0106] 331 first spindle nut;

[0107] 332 second spindle nut;

[0108] 333 Third spindle nut;

[0109] 334 fourth spindle nut;

[0110] 4. Pressing device;

[0111] 40 pressing wheel;

[0112] 41 press drive;

[0113] 42 lateral drives;

[0114] 44 common base;

[0115] 5. Clamping element;

[0116] 7. Control unit;

[0117] 8. Cutter;

[0118] 80 blade body;

[0119] 81 first blade surface;

[0120] 82 second blade surface;

[0121] 83 cutting edge;

[0122] 9. Tire components;

[0123] 91 a first lateral side;

[0124] 92 second lateral side;

[0125] 101 Alternative cutting devices;

[0126] 103 Replacement retaining element;

[0127] 105 valve device;

[0128] 107 Replacement control unit;

[0129] 201 Alternative cutting devices;

[0130] 204 Alternative compression device;

[0131] 241 Guide follower;

[0132] 242 Alternative transverse drive;

[0133] 243 Biasing element;

[0134] 244 alternative common base;

[0135] 206 Guidance System;

[0136] 261 Guide rails;

[0137] 207 Replacement control unit;

[0138] 301 Alternative cutting devices;

[0139] 306 multi-disc roller;

[0140] 307 Alternative control unit;

[0141] 371 first lateral sensor;

[0142] 372 second lateral sensor;

[0143] 373 3rd lateral sensor;

[0144] 374 4th lateral sensor;

[0145] LE leading edge;

[0146] TE trailing edge;

[0147] A gap direction;

[0148] B Pressing direction;

[0149] C center plane;

[0150] D neutral axis;

[0151] H clearance height;

[0152] K cutting line;

[0153] P support plane;

[0154] R horizontal reference line;

[0155] T conveying direction;

[0156] W wing tip;

[0157] Y cutting direction;

[0158] Z0 central area;

[0159] Z1 first lateral zone;

[0160] Z2 second lateral zone.

Claims

1. A cutting device for cutting a tire component, the tire component having a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge opposite the first lateral edge, wherein: The cutting device comprises a support surface for supporting the tire component in a support plane, characterized in that the cutting device also comprises a cutter for cutting through the tire component at a cutting line on the support surface, wherein the support surface is provided with one or more holding members for holding the tire component at or near the cutting line, wherein the one or more holding members are arranged to hold a preselection of one or more areas of the tire component distributed in a cutting direction along the cutting line.

2. The cutting device according to claim 1, characterized in that The cutter is movable in a cutting direction along a cutting line to cut through the tire component.

3. The cutting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The preselection of one or more areas of the tire component is a first preselection, and wherein the one or more retaining members are further arranged to retain a second preselection of one or more areas of the tire component, wherein the second preselection is different from the first preselection.

4. The cutting device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cutting device is arranged to selectively hold the tire component at a first lateral region at the first lateral edge.

5. The cutting device according to claim 4, characterized in that The cutting device is further arranged to selectively hold the tire component at a second lateral region at the second lateral edge.

6. The cutting device according to claim 5, characterized in that The one or more holding members include a first holding member for holding the first transverse edge and a second holding member for holding the second transverse edge, wherein the first holding member and the second holding member are spaced apart in the cutting direction.

7. The cutting device according to claim 6, characterized in that The first holding member and the second holding member are movable relative to each other in a cutting direction.

8. The cutting device according to claim 7, characterized in that The cutting device comprises a first setting drive for moving the first holding member.

9. The cutting device according to claim 8, characterized in that The cutting device comprises a second setting drive for moving the second holding member.

10. The cutting device according to claim 6, characterized in that The tire component is a first tire component, and wherein the cutting device is further arranged for cutting a second tire component arranged parallel to the first tire component, wherein the cutting device further comprises a third holding member and a fourth holding member along the cutting line for holding a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge of the second tire component, respectively.

11. The cutting device according to claim 9, characterized in that The tire component is a first tire component, and wherein the cutting device is further arranged for cutting a second tire component arranged parallel to the first tire component, wherein the cutting device further comprises a third holding member and a fourth holding member along a cutting line for holding a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge of the second tire component, respectively, wherein the first holding member and the fourth holding member are symmetrically arranged with respect to a center plane extending transversely to the cutting line, and wherein the second holding member and the third holding member are symmetrically arranged with respect to the center plane, wherein the first setting drive is arranged for simultaneously moving the first holding member and the fourth holding member in opposite directions relative to the center plane along the cutting line, and wherein the second setting drive is arranged for simultaneously moving the second holding member and the third holding member in opposite directions relative to the center plane along the cutting line.

12. The cutting device according to claim 9, characterized in that The cutting device further comprises a control unit for controlling the first setting drive and the second setting drive.

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