CURING MOLD ASSEMBLY AND MANUFACTURING METHOD FOR NON-PNEUMATIC TIRE - Patent application

Abstract

A mold assembly for curing a non-pneumatic tire includes a first mold section and a second mold section axially displaceable relative to one another. A primary conductive heat source is in thermal communication with the mold sections. A radiant heat source is supported on the first mold section and another radiant heat source is supported on the second mold section. The non-pneumatic tire is positioned with the mold assembly between the radiant heat sources. A tire curing system including such a mold assembly and a method of manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire are also included.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The subject matter of this disclosure relates generally to the art of vehicle tire manufacturing, and more particularly to mold assemblies for curing non-pneumatic tires, as well as methods of manufacturing non-pneumatic tires using such mold assemblies.

[0002] The subject matter of the present disclosure may find particular application and use in conjunction with components for wheeled vehicles, and is shown and described herein with reference thereto, however, it should be understood that the subject matter of the present disclosure is also suitable for use in other applications and environments, and the particular uses shown and described herein are merely exemplary. [Background technology]

[0003] A conventional pneumatic tire includes a tire casing having a tread formed on or along an outer surface of the tire casing that is configured to engage a road or other ground surface. The tire casing includes an annular body formed from a plurality of layers and / or plies (e.g., radial plies, belt plies) with opposed sidewalls extending radially inwardly along shoulders of the annular body to beads that form the radially inner extent of the sidewalls. The inner surface of the annular body and the opposed sidewalls are covered by an inner liner that defines a tire chamber for the pneumatic tire.

[0004] In a conventional tire manufacturing process, a "green" or other uncured tire carcass and tread assembly is loaded into a mold assembly on a tire curing machine. The mold assembly includes a plurality of die segments having an inner surface portion that includes a section of the tread pattern. The mold assembly is closed by the tire curing machine, and the tire curing press positions the die segments into abutting engagement with the tread material of the uncured tire assembly. The tire curing machine also includes a curing bladder disposed inside the mold assembly such that the uncured tire assembly is disposed in an uninflated state of the curing bladder in spaced-apart relation to the outside of the curing bladder. During the curing process, the curing bladder is inflated such that the curing bladder extends into the tire chamber of the uncured tire assembly and into abutting engagement with the inner liner. The tire curing machine introduces heat to the uncured tire assembly while under pressure from the mold assembly and the inflated curing bladder to vulcanize or crosslink the uncured tire material to form a finished tire.

[0005] The manufacturing processes for so-called non-pneumatic tires differ from those typically associated with conventional pneumatic tires at least in that some non-pneumatic tires include a relatively rigid rim or other annular structure over or around which at least a portion of the tire tread extends. In many cases, the rim or other annular structure may be formed from a material (e.g., metal) having material properties (e.g., specific heat, thermal conductivity, thermal expansion) that are substantially different from one or more other materials of the non-pneumatic tire, such as, for example, an elastomeric material and / or an adhesive. In such cases, the elastomeric material and / or adhesive material may undergo a vulcanization or other curing process that introduces heat and / or pressure to the "green" or other uncured tire material.

[0006] It has been recognized that uniform heating of a combination of materials during such vulcanization or other curing processes presents certain challenges. For example, heating a "green" or other uncured non-pneumatic tire assembly too quickly or too slowly can result in some portions of the non-pneumatic tire assembly becoming over-cured while leaving other portions of the same non-pneumatic tire assembly under-cured. In some cases, attempts have been made to address this issue by introducing heat from opposite directions (e.g., from radially inward and radially outward directions) during an otherwise conventional curing process. However, such efforts do not appear to take into account the mass and / or geometry of any relatively rigid rims or other annular structures that are incorporated into the non-pneumatic tire. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] It is therefore believed to be desirable to develop a mold assembly and manufacturing method that may help overcome the above-mentioned and / or other problems and / or shortcomings of the known art and / or may otherwise advance the manufacturing of non-pneumatic tires.

[0008] An example of a method of manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire according to the subject matter of the present disclosure can include providing a first mold section. The first mold section can include an interior surface portion at least partially defining a first mold cavity portion. The first mold section can include a second heat source that can be thermally coupled to the first heat source and can be operated independently from the first heat source. The second heat source can be disposed within the first mold cavity portion and spaced inwardly from the interior surface portion such that an annular gap is disposed between the second heat source and the interior surface portion. The method can also include providing a non-fully cured non-pneumatic tire including a rim having an axis of rotation and having a quantity of non-fully cured material disposed about the rim. The rim can include an annular wall portion extending circumferentially about the axis of rotation and a flange wall portion extending radially inwardly along the annular wall portion. The quantity of non-fully cured material can be disposed radially outwardly of the annular wall portion. The flange wall portion can be oriented transversely to the axis of rotation and can include a first flange side and a second flange side. The method can further include positioning the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire along the first mold section such that at least a portion of the annular wall portion of the rim and at least a portion of the amount of not fully cured material are disposed within the annular gap. In such an arrangement, the first flange side of the flange wall portion can face toward the second heat source and the second flange side of the flange wall portion can face away from the second heat source. The method can also include providing a second mold section including a third heat source operable independently of at least the first heat source. The method can further include positioning the second mold section over the first mold cavity portion such that the third heat source is disposed facing against the second flange side of the flange wall portion. The method can also include curing the non-pneumatic tire.

[0009] One example of a mold assembly according to the disclosed subject matter may be suitable for curing an associated non-pneumatic tire including an associated amount of non-fully cured material disposed circumferentially about an associated rim. The associated rim may include an associated annular wall and an associated flange wall. The mold assembly may include a first mold section and a second mold section. The first mold section may include an interior surface portion at least partially defining a first mold cavity portion having a longitudinal axis. The first mold section may be thermally coupled to a primary conductive heat source. The second mold section may be displaceable relative to the first mold section between a first position in which the second mold section extends at least partially across the first mold cavity portion and a second position in which the first mold cavity portion is accessible for loading and unloading the associated non-pneumatic tire. The mold assembly also includes a first radiant heat source operable independently of the primary conductive heat source. The first radiant heat source may be disposed within the first mold cavity portion and spaced inwardly from the interior surface portion such that an annular gap is disposed between the first radiant heat source and the interior surface portion. The annular gap may be dimensioned to receive at least a portion of an associated annular wall of an associated rim and at least a portion of an associated amount of not fully cured material. The mold assembly further includes a second radiant heat source operable independently of the primary conductive heat source. The second radiant heat source may be supported on the second mold section and displaceable with the second mold section between a first position and a second position of the second mold section. The second radiant heat source may be axially spaced from the first radiant heat source at the first position of the second mold section such that an associated flange wall of the associated rim is disposed between the first radiant heat source and the second radiant heat source.

[0010] An example of a tire curing system for curing non-pneumatic tires can include a mold assembly according to the preceding paragraph. The tire curing system can also include a memory and a processor communicatively coupled to the primary conductive heat source, the first radiant heat source, and the second radiant heat source. The memory can include instructions for operating the primary conductive heat source for a first period of time at a first nominal temperature. The memory can also include instructions for operating the first radiant heat source for a second period of time at a second nominal temperature, the second period of time being shorter than the first period of time. The memory can further include instructions for operating the second radiant heat source for a third period of time at a third nominal temperature, the third period of time being shorter than the first period of time. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary uncured non-pneumatic tire in an assembled condition and prepared for curing. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a top view of the exemplary uncured non-pneumatic tire of FIG. [Diagram 3] 3 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the illustrative uncured non-pneumatic tire of FIGS. 1 and 2 taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded arrangement of a cross-sectional side elevation view of the exemplary uncured non-pneumatic tire of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a front view of a tire curing press showing the mold assembly in an open position and loaded with an exemplary not fully cured non-pneumatic tire in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front view of the tire curing press of FIG. 5 with the mold assembly in a closed position and an exemplary partially cured, non-pneumatic tire loaded for curing. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the mold assembly and exemplary not fully cured non-pneumatic tire of FIGS. 5 and 6 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the mold assembly of FIGS. 5-7 and an illustrative not fully cured non-pneumatic tire taken along line 8-8 of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the exemplary secondary heat source shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the exemplary tertiary heat source shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary control system operatively associated with a mold assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a graphical representation of one example of a manufacturing method according to the disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Referring now to the drawings, it should be understood that the illustrations are for purposes of illustrating examples of the subject matter of the present disclosure and that the drawings should not be construed as limiting. In addition, it will be understood that the drawings are not to scale and that portions of certain features and / or elements may be exaggerated for clarity and ease of understanding.

[0013] For background and discussion purposes, and not operating as a limitation, Figures 1 and 4 illustrate one example of a not fully cured, non-pneumatic tire sized and / or otherwise configured to be cured in a mold assembly according to the presently disclosed subject matter and / or by a manufacturing method according to the presently disclosed subject matter. It will be understood that various types, varieties, and / or constructions of non-pneumatic tires have been developed and / or used in different applications and / or environments, and that the not fully cured, non-pneumatic tire shown and described herein is merely exemplary.

[0014] As one non-limiting example, the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire (or tire assembly) 100 is shown in FIGS. 1-8 as having a longitudinal axis AX and may extend axially from an end 102 to an end 104 opposite the end 102. The not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 may include an annular ring 106 extending circumferentially about the axis AX and a structure 108 disposed outside at least a portion of the annular ring 106 and extending circumferentially about the axis AX. The not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 may also include an annular ring 110 extending circumferentially about the axis AX, at least a portion of the annular ring 110 being disposed outside the annular ring 106 and / or the structure 108. The not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 may further include a tread body 112 extending circumferentially about the axis AX, at least a portion of the tread body 112 being disposed outside the annular ring 110.

[0015] It will be appreciated that the mold assembly and manufacturing method according to the subject matter of the present disclosure may be used to transition a non-pneumatic tire having one or more portions formed from or otherwise including one or more amounts of a not fully cured material to a non-pneumatic tire having all or substantially all of its portions substantially fully crosslinked, vulcanized, and / or otherwise cured. It will be appreciated and understood that such one or more amounts of not fully cured material may include, for example, an elastomeric material, such as natural rubber, synthetic rubber, and / or a thermoplastic elastomer. Additionally or alternatively, such one or more amounts of not fully cured material may include an adhesive material. Thus, it will be appreciated and understood that any one or more of the aforementioned components of the non-pneumatic tire 100 may include one or more amounts of material that are transitioned from a not fully cured state to at least a substantially fully cured state, and that the arrangements of the non-pneumatic tire 100 shown and described herein are merely exemplary and are not intended to be limiting.

[0016] It will be understood that the annular ring 106 may be of any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration and may include any suitable number of one or more walls and / or wall portions. As one non-limiting example, the annular ring may be a portion of, or otherwise at least partially form, an outer wall or outer wall portion of a vehicle wheel or rim 114, as depicted in Figures 1-4, 7 and 8. In an exemplary arrangement, the annular ring 106 may include a ring wall 116 extending axially between a ring edge 118 disposed toward the end 102 and a ring edge 120 disposed toward the end 104 in axially spaced relationship relative to the ring edge 118. The ring wall 116 of the annular ring 106 may also include an outer surface portion 122 facing radially outward and extending circumferentially about the longitudinal axis AX and axially between the ends 102 and 104. The ring wall 116 of the ring wall portion 106 extends circumferentially about the longitudinal axis AX and may further include an inner surface portion 124 facing radially inwardly in an axial direction along and / or between the ends 102 and / or 104.

[0017] The vehicle rim 114 also includes a mounting hub or flange 126 operably connected to the annular ring 106, such as by a flow material joint 128. The mounting flange 126 includes one or more walls and / or wall portions extending radially inwardly therefrom along the annular ring 106 and oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis AX. For example, the mounting flange 126 can include a hub or flange wall 130 having a connector wall portion 132 disposed along and operably connected to the ring wall 116, such as by a flow material joint 128. The flange wall 130 can also include a mounting wall portion 134 disposed radially inwardly of the connector wall portion 132 and oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis AX. The mounting wall portion 134 can be sized and / or otherwise adapted for conventional mounting, such as by bolt holes 136, on or along an associated component or device, such as an axle of an associated vehicle. In some cases, the flange wall 130 may include an intermediate wall portion 138 extending between and operably interconnecting the connector wall portion 132 and the mounting wall portion 134 .

[0018] Regardless of the particular configuration and / or arrangement of the walls and / or wall portions of the vehicle rim 114, the annular ring 106 at least partially defines a wheel or rim cavity 140 disposed radially inwardly thereof. The mounting flange 126 is at least partially disposed within the rim cavity 140 and extends at least partially across the rim cavity such that the rim cavity is separated into rim cavity portions 140A and 140B. In such an arrangement, one or more walls and / or wall portions of the mounting flange 126 separate or otherwise obstruct one rim cavity portion from a portion of the annular ring 106. As an example, the connector wall portion 132, the mounting wall portion 134, and / or the intermediate wall portion 138 can separate or otherwise obstruct, for example, the rim cavity portion 140A from the section 142 of the ring wall 116, such as in the direction of heat transfer represented by the arrow HT1 in FIG. 3 . Additionally or alternatively, the connector wall portion 132, the mounting wall portion 134, and / or the intermediate wall portion 138 may separate or otherwise obstruct the rim cavity portion 140B from, for example, section 144 of the ring wall 116, such as in the direction of heat transfer represented by arrow HT2 in FIG. 3.

[0019] In a preferred arrangement, all or substantially all of the amount of non-fully cured material of the non-pneumatic tire can be disposed radially outward of the annular ring 106. In a non-limiting example, the structure 108 can include an inner wrap or inner layer 146 and an outer wrap or outer layer 148 disposed radially outward of the inner layer 146. The inner layer 146 and the outer layer 148 extend axially between the ends 102 and 104, the inner layer 146 extends axially between the edges 150 and 152, and the outer layer 148 extends axially between the edges 154 and 156. In some cases, the inner layer 146 and the outer layer 148 can be substantially coextensive with one another such that the edges 150 and 154 are at least approximately aligned with one another along the end 102 and / or the edges 152 and 156 are at least approximately aligned with one another along the end 104. The inner layer 146 may at least partially define an inner surface portion 158 of the structure 108 extending axially between the ends 102, 104 and circumferentially about the longitudinal axis AX. The outer layer 148 may at least partially define an outer surface portion 160 of the structure 108 extending axially between the ends 102, 104 and circumferentially about the longitudinal axis AX.

[0020] The structure 108 also includes a plurality of support structures 162 extending between and operably interconnecting the inner layer 146 and the outer layer 148. It will be appreciated that the support structures 162 may be of any suitable shape, configuration, and / or arrangement and may be operably connected to the inner layer 146 and the outer layer 148 in any suitable manner. As one non-limiting example, the support structures 162 may extend axially from an edge 164 disposed toward the end 102 to an edge 166 disposed toward the end 104. The support structures 162 may also include an end 168 disposed toward the inner layer 146 and an end 170 disposed toward the outer layer 148 in a spaced apart relationship relative to the end 168. The support structures 162 are shown and described herein as having a curved or otherwise non-linear profile along a plane taken transverse to the longitudinal axis AX. By way of example, the support structure 162 may include one circumferentially facing concave portion 172 about the longitudinal axis AX and an opposing circumferentially facing convex portion 174. However, it will be understood that such a configuration is merely exemplary and that other shapes and / or profiles may alternatively be used.

[0021] The support structures 162 are arranged in circumferentially spaced relationship from one another about the longitudinal axis AX such that a plurality of spaces 176 are also arranged in circumferentially spaced relationship from one another about the longitudinal axis, with one of the spaces 176 being disposed between adjacent ones of the support structures 162. In such an arrangement, the spaces 176 may have a generally crescent-shaped cross-sectional profile or configuration, with a concave portion 172 of one support structure 162 and a convex portion 174 of an adjacent support structure 162 at least partially defining circumferentially spaced sides of the space 176. In some cases, the support structures 162 may extend or otherwise be at least partially embedded within the inner layer 146 and / or the outer layer 148. In such cases, a portion 178 of the inner layer 146 may at least partially define an end portion 180 of the space 176 and may have, for example, a curved or otherwise nonlinear cross-sectional shape and / or configuration. Additionally or alternatively, a portion 182 of the outer layer 148 can at least partially define an end portion 184 of the space 176 and can have, for example, a curved or otherwise non-linear cross-sectional shape and / or configuration.

[0022] It will be understood that the annular ring 110 may be of any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration and may include any suitable number of one or more walls and / or wall portions. As one non-limiting example, the annular ring 110 may include a ring wall portion (or ring wall portion) 186 extending circumferentially about the longitudinal axis AX. The ring wall portion 186 may extend axially between a ring edge 188 disposed toward the end 102 and a ring edge 190 disposed toward the end 104 in axially spaced relationship relative to the ring edge 188. The ring wall portion 186 may include an inner surface portion 192 that faces radially outward and extends circumferentially about the longitudinal axis AX and axially between the ends 102 and 104. The ring wall portion 186 may also include an outer surface portion 194 that extends circumferentially about the longitudinal axis AX and faces radially outward axially along and / or between the ends 102 and / or 104.

[0023] The tread body 112 may extend axially between the ends 102 and 104, with a tread edge 196 disposed along the end 102 and a tread edge 198 disposed along the end 104. The tread body 112 may also include an inner surface portion 200 facing radially inward and an outer surface portion 202 facing radially outward. One or more tread structures 204 (e.g., grooves, ribs, lugs, sipes) may optionally be preformed on the tread body 112 along the outer surface portion 202 of the non-pneumatic tire 100 that is not fully cured or may otherwise extend within the tread body, such tread structures adapted to at least partially define a ground-engaging tread (or tread pattern) on the cured non-pneumatic tire during the curing process.

[0024] As discussed above, one or more walls and / or wall portions of the non-pneumatic tire 100 can be formed from one or more quantities of material in a not fully cured state (e.g., elastomeric material and / or adhesive material) such that at least those walls and / or wall portions can be cured using a mold assembly and / or manufacturing method according to the presently disclosed subject matter. For example, the tread body 112 can be at least partially formed from one or more quantities of not fully cured elastomeric material. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the inner layer 146 and / or outer layer 148 of the structure 108 can be at least partially formed from not fully cured elastomeric and / or adhesive material. As a further example and / or as another alternative, the support structure 162 can optionally include one or more layers of not fully cured elastomeric and / or adhesive material. As a non-limiting example of such a structure, the support structure 162 may be at least partially formed from a sheet of relatively rigid material (e.g., metal, fiber-reinforced composite) whose ends 168 and 170 may be at least partially embedded or otherwise disposed within the inner and outer layers 146 and 148, respectively, of the structure 108. Additionally or alternatively, a layer of a not fully cured elastomeric and / or adhesive material may extend along and / or at least partially define the concave portion 172 and / or the convex portion 174. As another non-limiting example, the support structure 162 may be at least partially formed from a plurality of relatively rigid wires and / or filaments disposed adjacent one another and at least partially embedded with a quantity of not fully cured elastomeric and / or adhesive material to at least partially form a sheet-like structure.

[0025] It will be appreciated that the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 can include any suitable elastomeric material or combination of elastomeric materials, such as, for example, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, and / or thermoplastic elastomers. It will further be recognized and understood that in some cases, the various components can be formed from a common not fully cured elastomeric material. However, in other cases, more than one composition, compound, and / or grade of not fully cured elastomeric material can be used. As used herein, terms such as "less than fully cured" refer to elastomeric materials having polymer chains that are crosslinked or otherwise bonded when exposed to heat, pressure, and / or chemical compounds, with "fully cured" or "substantially fully cured" elastomeric materials exhibiting material and / or mechanical properties that are substantially different from "not fully cured" elastomeric materials. One non-limiting example of a suitable curing process includes vulcanization of natural and synthetic rubber elastomers.

[0026] It will be understood that any combination of one or more not fully cured elastomeric materials may be used or otherwise included in a not fully cured non-pneumatic tire, such as (non-pneumatic tire 100). As one non-limiting example, a not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 may include one or more amounts of elastomers and / or adhesive materials, substantially all of each of which are in an "uncured" or substantially fully uncured state. As another non-limiting example, a not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 may include one or more amounts of elastomers and / or adhesive materials that are in an "uncured" or substantially fully uncured state, as well as one or more amounts of elastomers and / or adhesive materials that are at least partially cured. As a further non-limiting example, a not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 may include one or more amounts of elastomers and / or adhesive materials that are partially cured but not fully cured. Thus, it is to be appreciated and understood that a non-pneumatic tire 100 that is not fully cured can include, but is not limited to, one or more amounts of "uncured" or substantially fully uncured elastomer and / or adhesive material, or one or more amounts of partially cured but not fully cured elastomer and / or adhesive material, or one or more amounts of "uncured" or substantially fully uncured elastomer and / or adhesive material and one or more amounts of partially cured but not fully cured elastomer and / or adhesive material.

[0027] 5 and 6 generally illustrate an otherwise conventional tire curing press 300 including a press base 302 having a base mounting surface 304. The tire curing press 300 also includes a press head 306 having a head mounting surface 308. The press head 306 is movable relative to the press base 302, such as along a linear guide rod 310, in a conventional manner. The press head 306 is shown in FIG. 5 as disposed in a first or elevated position that is movable to a second or lowered position shown in FIG. 6, which movement is represented in FIG. 5 by arrow 312. The tire curing press 300 may include one or more sources of pressurized fluid, one or more sources of heated fluid, and / or one or more vacuum sources, as generally represented in FIGS. 5 and 6 by dashed boxes 314, 316, and 318, respectively, and may be included on, along with, or operatively associated with the press base 302 and / or press head 306, as is known in the art. The tire curing press 300 may further include a control system 320 communicatively coupled to one or more components and / or systems of the tire curing press and adapted for selective operation thereof in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. It will be understood that the control system 320 may be included on, along with, or otherwise operatively associated with the press base 302, the press head 306, and / or any other components and / or systems of the tire curing press 300 as may otherwise be known in the art.

[0028] A mold assembly 400 in accordance with the disclosed subject matter is shown in Figures 5-8 as operably supported within, on, or along a tire curing press 300. Mold assembly 400 includes a mold section 402 supported on or along a base mounting surface 304 of press base 302, and a mold section 404 supported on or along a head mounting surface 308 of press head 306. Mold sections 402 and / or 404 can be operably connected in fluid communication with pressurized fluid source 314 and / or heated fluid source 316 in any manner suitable for transporting pressurized fluid to and / or from the mold sections, such as, for example, via one or more conduits or passageways 406 (Figure 8).

[0029] The mold assembly 400 includes a mold axis MAX that extends in or otherwise along the direction of movement 312 of the tire curing press 300. Thus, the mold sections 402 and 404 are axially displaceable relative to one another during operation of the tire curing press, with the mold sections 402 and 404 shown spaced apart in FIG. 5 , which depicts an open state of the mold assembly, and the mold sections 402 and 404 shown coextensively engaged with one another in FIG. 6 , which depicts a closed state of the mold assembly. The mold section 402 can optionally include an interstitial curing system 408. Additionally, the mold section 402 can optionally include a plurality of tread die segments 410 circumferentially disposed about the interstitial curing system 408 to at least partially define a mold cavity 412 within the mold section 402. The mold section 404 includes a surface portion 414 that at least partially defines a mold cavity 416 within the mold section. The mold cavity 416 is sized to receive at least a portion of the mold section 402 in a closed condition of the mold assembly. In some cases, an exterior surface portion 418 of the tread die segment 410 can abuttingly engage a surface portion 414 of the mold section 404 as the mold sections move toward the closed condition.

[0030] For example, as represented by arrow 322 in FIG. 5 and shown in FIG. 6, with the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 loaded or disposed within the mold cavity 416, the tread die segment 410 is displaced radially inward to engage the tread body 112 of the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100. Such radial compression causes the inner surface portion 200 of the tread body 112 to engage with the outer surface portion 194 of the annular ring 110. In addition, such radial compression urges the inner surface portion 192 of the annular ring 110 to engage with the outer surface portion 160 of the structure 108. In some cases, such radial compression can also urge the inner surface portion 158 of the structure 108 to engage with the outer surface portion 122 of the annular ring 106. Additionally, the tread die segment 410 includes an inner surface portion 420 generally opposite the surface portion 418 that at least partially defines the mold cavity 412. In some cases, additional features may be formed on or along the inner surface portion 420, such as may extend to engage the tread body 112 along its outer surface portion 202 under such radial compression to at least partially define a ground-engaging tread pattern (e.g., grooves, ribs, lugs, sipes) on or along the non-pneumatic tire 100.

[0031] Depending on the configuration and / or structure of the non-fully cured non-pneumatic tire (e.g., non-pneumatic tire 100) for which the mold assembly according to the presently disclosed subject matter is intended to be used, the mold assembly may optionally include an interstitial curing system that may be axially coextensively interengaged with the plurality of support structures (e.g., support structures 162) and the plurality of interleaved spaces (e.g., spaces 176), such as to apply heat and / or pressure to the support structures and / or adjacent wall portions (e.g., inner layer 146 and / or outer layer 148). If included, it will be understood that any suitable type, kind, and / or configuration of interstitial curing system may be used. As one non-limiting example, the interstitial curing system 408 may include a plurality of curing shoe assemblies 422 operatively associated with the mold sections 402 and / or mold sections 404, as represented by dashed lines in FIGS. 5, 7, and 8.

[0032] In a preferred arrangement, the curing shoe assemblies 422 are configured such that one or more of the curing shoe assemblies are disposed within one of the spaces 176 when a not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 is positioned within the mold cavity 412. In such an arrangement, the curing shoe assemblies 422 may be selectively activated and deactivated (or otherwise released) such that the curing shoes correspondingly engage and disengage one or more walls and / or wall portions of the structure 108. In an engaged state, the curing shoe assemblies may apply surface pressure and / or transfer heat to the structure 108, and may operate, for example, to transition one or more walls and / or wall portions of the structure formed from a not fully cured elastomeric material to a substantially cured elastomeric material.

[0033] As described above, the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 can be transformed into a substantially fully cured non-pneumatic tire by application of pressure and / or transfer of heat to one or more quantities of not fully cured material of the non-pneumatic tire. Application of pressure can be accomplished in any suitable manner, such as, for example, through radially inward displacement of an otherwise conventional tread die segment 410. In addition, transfer of heat to the one or more quantities of not fully cured material (or materials) can be provided at least in part through other conventional primary heat sources, such as, for example, represented in FIGS. 5 and 6 by heated fluid source 316. It will be appreciated that conventional tire curing systems transport heated fluid through one or more sections of a mold assembly. During a conventional curing process, a heated mold section(s) transfers heat to one or more quantities of not fully cured material(s), and such heat transfer occurs primarily by heat conduction from the heated mold section(s) to the one or more quantities of not fully cured material(s).

[0034] It will be appreciated that various conventional fluid communication systems are known and have been used to transport heated fluid into, out of, and / or otherwise through other conventional mold sections. As a non-limiting example of such an arrangement, a primary heat source (e.g., heated fluid source 316) can transport heated fluid 424 (e.g., air, steam, water, oil) into, out of, and / or otherwise through mold section 402 through conduits or passages 406. In some cases, tread die segment 410 can include one or more passages and / or cavities 426 through which heated fluid 424 can circulate or otherwise flow, thereby transferring heat to the tread die segment. Additionally or alternatively, curing shoe assembly 422 can include one or more passages and / or cavities 428 through which heated fluid 424 can circulate or otherwise flow, thereby transferring heat to the curing shoe assembly. Additionally or alternatively, any one or more of the aforementioned arrangements for circulation and / or other flow of heated fluid through mold section 402 are equally applicable to mold section 404. It will be understood that conductive heat transfer using circulation and / or flow of heated fluid 424 through mold sections 402 and / or 404 and any curing shoe assemblies thereof (e.g., curing shoe assembly 422), if included, collectively represent a conventional primary heat source operatively associated with mold assembly 400.

[0035] It is recognized that the mass of a rim (e.g., rim 114) of a non-fully cured non-pneumatic tire (e.g., non-pneumatic tire 100) may undesirably affect conductive heat transfer from a conventional primary heat source to one or more quantities of non-fully cured material of the non-pneumatic tire, for example, as described above. In addition, it is recognized that the configuration and / or geometry of the rim walls and / or wall portions may also undesirably affect such conventional conductive heat transfer. Thus, the mold assembly and manufacturing method according to the presently disclosed subject matter includes and / or selectively operates one or more radiant heat sources provided in addition to and separately from the primary conductive heat source. Furthermore, the one or more radiant heat sources are controllable independently from the primary conductive heat source to selectively direct heat transfer into or toward the rim of the non-pneumatic tire. In some cases, the one or more radiant heat sources may be controllable independently from the primary conductive heat source. When two or more radiant heat sources are included, the two radiant heat sources may be controllable independently of each other. Further, in a preferred arrangement, at least one of the two or more radiant heat sources is operably disposed along one mold section (e.g., mold section 402) of the mold assembly (e.g., mold assembly 400), and at least a different one of the two or more radiant heat sources is operably disposed on or along a different mold section (e.g., mold section 404) of the mold assembly (e.g., mold assembly 400).

[0036] As a non-limiting example, the mold assembly 400 can include a radiant heat source 430 operably supported on or along the mold section 402 and a radiant heat source 432 operably supported on or along the mold section 404. The radiant heat source 430 is shown disposed on or along the mold section 402 in the mold cavity 416. The radiant heat source 430 can also be disposed within the mold cavity 416 such that an annular space or gap GP1 is formed between the radiant heat source and the surface portion 414 of the tread die segment 410, with at least a portion of the non-pneumatic tire 100 disposed within the gap GP1. In such an arrangement, at least a portion of the non-pneumatic tire 100 is axially coextensive with the radiant heat source 430, with the annular ring 106 disposed toward the radiant heat source and the tread body 112 disposed outwardly of the radiant heat source in a direction toward the tread die segment 410. A radiant heat source 432 is shown supported on or along the mold section 404 and positioned within the mold cavity 416 in the closed position of the mold assembly 100. Additionally, the radiant heat source 432 is positioned within the mold cavity 416 such that an annular space or gap GP2 is formed between the radiant heat source and the surface portion 414 of the tread die segment 410 in the closed position of the mold assembly. In such an arrangement, at least a portion of the non-pneumatic tire 100 is also positioned within the gap GP2, and at least a portion of the non-pneumatic tire 100 is axially coextensive with the radiant heat source 432.

[0037] The radiant heat source 430 may include a base wall 434 operably connected to the mold section 402, with one or more radiant heating elements operably supported on or along the base wall. In the arrangement shown in Figures 8 and 9, for example, the radiant heat source 430 may include a plurality of radiant heating elements 436 spaced apart from one another circumferentially about the base wall 434 and / or axially along the base wall. In such an arrangement, the radiant heating elements 436 may face transversely to the mold axis MAX such that the radiant heating elements face radially outward toward the ring wall 116 of the annular ring 106. In some cases, the radiant heating elements 436 may be disposed in a faceted or some other cylindrical orientation and may be selectively operated to direct radiant heat toward the section 144 of the ring wall 116, as represented by arrow RH1.

[0038] The radiant heat source 432 may include a base wall 438 operably connected to the mold section 404, with one or more radiant heating elements operably supported on or along the base wall. For example, in the arrangement shown in Figures 8 and 10, the radiant heat source 432 may include a plurality of radiant heating elements 440 spaced apart from one another circumferentially about the base wall 438. In a preferred arrangement, the radiant heating elements 440 are oriented at an acute included angle with respect to the mold axis MAX, as represented, for example, by the reference dimension AG1 in Figure 8. In such an arrangement, the radiant heating elements 440 face radially outwardly toward the ring wall 116 of the annular ring 106 and axially toward at least a portion of the mounting flange 126. The radiant heating elements 440 may be arranged in a faceted or some other frustoconical orientation and may be selectively operated to direct radiant heat toward the section 142 of the ring wall 116 and toward one or more portions of the mounting flange 126, as represented by the arrow RH2.

[0039] It will be appreciated that radiant heat sources 430 and 432 may utilize any suitable energy source for the generation of radiant heat. As an example, one or both of the radiant heat sources may utilize a combustion process to generate the radiant heat, such as by utilizing one or more gas combustion panels. Additionally or alternatively, radiant heat source 430, radiant heat source 432, or both radiant heat sources 430 and 432 may utilize electricity to generate the radiant heat, such as by utilizing one or more resistive heating elements.

[0040] As discussed above, the radiant heat sources 430 and 432 can be selectively controlled independently of the primary conductive heat source (e.g., the heated fluid source 316). Additionally, the radiant heat sources 430 and 432 can be selectively controlled independently of one another. It should be understood that such selective operation and / or control of the primary conductive heat source 316 and the radiant heat sources 430 and / or 432 can be accomplished in any suitable manner and through the use of any suitable combination of components and / or systems. As a non-limiting example, the control system 320 of the tire curing press 300 can be communicatively coupled or otherwise operably associated with the mold assembly 400 for selective operation and / or control of the radiant heat sources 430 and 432 and the primary conductive heat source 316.

[0041] As a non-limiting example, the control system 320 can include a controller 324 communicatively coupled to various devices, components and / or systems of the tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400, and can be suitable, for example, for transmitting, receiving and / or otherwise communicating signals, data, values ​​and / or information between the controller and one or more of such devices, components and / or systems. It will be appreciated that the controller 324 can include any suitable hardware, software and / or combination thereof for the configuration and operation of a tire sensing system in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. For example, the controller 324 can include a processing device, which can be of any suitable type, kind and / or configuration, such as a microprocessor, for example, to process data, execute software routines / programs and perform other functions related to the performance and / or operation of the tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400. Additionally, the controller may include any suitable type, kind, and / or configuration of memory that may be used to store software, parameters, settings, inputs, data, values, and / or other information for use in connection with the performance and / or operation of the tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400. In the arrangement shown in Figure 11, the controller 324 includes a microprocessor 326 and a memory 328 that includes boxes 328A and 328B.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 11, the controller 324 may optionally include a motion control module 330 that can request, receive, process, store and / or otherwise transfer data, values, information, signals and / or communications into and / or out of the tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400, for example, which may be associated with or relate to operation of the motion actuators 318 and / or otherwise movement of the mold sections 402 and / or 404 to, from and / or between open and closed positions as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, respectively. In some cases, the motion control module 330 may request, receive, process, and / or store data, values, information, signals, and / or communications that may relate to or be associated with operation of the motion actuator 318 and / or otherwise movement of the mold sections 402 and / or 404 to, from, and / or between the open and closed positions, which may be stored in memory 328, for example, as represented by box 332 in FIG. 11 .

[0043] The controller 324 may include a thermal control module 334 that may request, receive, process, store, and / or otherwise transfer data, values, information, signals and / or communications into and / or out of the tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400, and may be associated with or related to, for example, operation of the primary conductive heat source 316, and / or circulating and / or transporting heated fluid into and / or out of and / or otherwise through the mold assembly in connection with transitioning a non-pneumatic tire having one or more portions formed from or otherwise including one or more amounts of not fully cured material to a non-pneumatic tire in which all or substantially all portions are substantially fully crosslinked, vulcanized, and / or otherwise cured. In some cases, the thermal control module 334 may request, receive, process, and / or store data, values, information, signals, and / or communications related to or that may be associated with the operation of the primary conductive heat source 316 and / or the circulation and / or transport of heated fluid into, from, and / or otherwise through the mold assembly 400, which may be stored in memory 328, for example, as represented by box 332 in FIG. 11 .

[0044] The controller 324 may include a thermal control module 336 that may request, receive, process, store and / or otherwise transfer data, values, information, signals and / or communications into and / or out of the tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400, as may be related to or associated with the operation of the radiant heat source 430 and / or the transfer of radiant heat to the rim 114. In some cases, the thermal control module 336 may request, receive, process and / or store data, values, information, signals and / or communications that may be related to or associated with the operation of the radiant heat source 430 and / or the transfer of radiant heat to the rim 114, as may be stored in the memory 328, for example, as represented by box 332 in FIG.

[0045] The controller 324 may include a thermal control module 338 that may request, receive, process, store and / or otherwise transfer data, values, information, signals and / or communications into and / or out of the tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400, as may be related to or associated with the operation of the radiant heat source 432 and / or the transfer of radiant heat to the rim 114. In some cases, the thermal control module 336 may request, receive, process and / or store data, values, information, signals and / or communications that may be related to or associated with the operation of the radiant heat source 432 and / or the transfer of radiant heat to the rim 114, as may be stored in the memory 328, for example, as represented by box 332 in FIG.

[0046] It will be appreciated that the transition of a non-pneumatic tire having one or more portions formed from or otherwise including one or more amounts of a not fully cured material to a non-pneumatic tire in which all or substantially all portions are substantially fully crosslinked, vulcanized, and / or otherwise cured may be monitored or controlled in any suitable manner. As one non-limiting example, the transition from a not fully cured non-pneumatic tire to a substantially fully cured non-pneumatic tire may be controlled at least in part as a function of time. As another non-limiting example, the transition from a not fully cured non-pneumatic tire to a substantially fully cured non-pneumatic tire may be controlled at least in part as a function of temperature. As a further non-limiting example, the transition from a not fully cured non-pneumatic tire to a substantially fully cured non-pneumatic tire may be controlled at least in part as a function of a combination of both time and temperature.

[0047] In such a case, the tire curing press 300 and / or the mold assembly 400 may include one or more temperature sensors operatively associated therewith. By way of example, the tire curing press 300 and / or the mold assembly 400 may include one or more sensors 340 operable to generate data, signals, and / or other communications regarding a temperature associated with the primary conductive heat source 316 and / or the circulation and / or transport of heated fluid into, out of, and / or otherwise through the mold assembly 400. Additionally or alternatively, the mold assembly 400 may include one or more sensors 442 operatively associated with the mold section 402. Additionally or as a further alternative, the mold assembly 400 may include one or more sensors 444 operatively associated with the mold section 404.

[0048] In a preferred arrangement, the sensor 442 may be thermally coupled to one or more walls, wall portions, and / or sections of the rim 114 during at least a portion of the curing cycle in which the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire is transitioned to a substantially fully cured non-pneumatic tire in a closed state of the mold assembly 400. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 8, the sensor 442 is disposed in thermal communication with the section 116A of the ring wall 116. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor 444 may be thermally coupled to one or more walls, wall portions, and / or sections of the rim 114 during at least a portion of the curing cycle in which the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire is transitioned to a substantially fully cured non-pneumatic tire in a closed state of the mold assembly 400. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 8, the sensor 444 is disposed in thermal communication with the section 116B of the ring wall 116 along the mounting wall portion 134 of the flange wall 130.

[0049] Thus, the controller 324 may include a timing module 342 that may request, receive, process, store, and / or otherwise transfer data, values, information, signals, and / or communications into and / or out of the tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400, as may relate to or be associated with: 1) the timing and / or duration of operation of the primary conductive heat source 316 and / or the circulation and / or transfer of heated fluid to, from, and / or through the mold assembly 400, 2) the timing and / or duration of operation of the radiant heat source 430, and / or 3) the timing and / or duration of operation of the radiant heat source 432. In some cases, the timing module 342 may include a timer or counter. Additionally, in some cases, timing module 342 may request, receive, process, and / or store data, values, information, signals, and / or communications related to or that may be associated with: 1) the timing and / or duration of operation of primary conductive heat source 316 and / or the circulation and / or transport of heated fluid into, from, and / or otherwise through mold assembly 400; 2) the timing and / or duration of operation of radiant heat source 430; and / or 3) the timing and / or duration of operation of radiant heat source 432, any and all of which may be stored in memory 328, as represented by box 332 in FIG. 11, for example.

[0050] Controller 324 may be communicatively coupled to any one or more of sensors 340, 442, and / or 444. In such a case, controller 324 may include a sensor module 344 that may request, receive, process, store, and / or otherwise transfer data, values, information, signals, and / or communications into and / or out of tire curing press 300 and / or mold assembly 400, such as may be related to or associated with 1) temperatures having a relationship to primary conductive heat source 316 and / or the circulation and / or transport of heated fluid into, out of, and / or otherwise through mold assembly 400, 2) temperatures having a relationship to operation of radiant heat source 430, 3) temperatures having a relationship to operation of radiant heat source 432, and / or 4) temperatures having a relationship to one or more walls and / or wall portions of rim 114. Additionally, in some cases, the sensor module 344 may request, receive, process, and / or store data, values, information, signals, and / or communications related to or that may be associated with: 1) temperatures having a relationship to the primary conductive heat source 316 and / or the circulation and / or transport of heated fluid into, out of, and / or otherwise through the mold assembly 400; 2) temperatures having a relationship to the operation of the radiant heat source 430; 3) temperatures having a relationship to the operation of the radiant heat source 432; and / or 4) temperatures having a relationship to one or more walls and / or wall portions of the rim 114, any and / or all of which may be stored in the memory 328, for example, as represented by box 332 in FIG. 11 .

[0051] It will be understood that any suitable combination of cure cycle times, cure cycle temperature combinations, or cure cycle time and temperature combinations can be used. For example, the primary conductive heat source 316 can operate for a first cycle time t1, and the radiant heat source 430 can operate for a second cycle time t2 that is shorter than the first cycle time t1. Additionally or alternatively, the radiant heat source 432 can operate for a third cycle time t3 that is shorter than the first cycle time t1. In some cases, the third cycle time t3 can be approximately equal to or less than the second cycle time t2. As another example, the primary conductive heat source 316 can operate at a first nominal temperature T1, and the radiant heat source 430 can operate at a second nominal temperature T2 that is lower than the first nominal temperature T1. Additionally or alternatively, the radiant heat source 432 can operate at a third nominal temperature T3 that is lower than the first nominal temperature T1. In some cases, the third nominal temperature T3 may be about equal to or less than the second nominal temperature T2. It will be appreciated that any combination of the aforementioned cycle times and nominal temperatures may also be used.

[0052] It will be appreciated that one or more of the modules of the controller 324, shown and described herein as modules 330-338, 342, and 344, may be provided in any suitable manner, such as, for example, software, hardware, and / or a combination of hardware and software. In some cases, the modules 330-338, 342, and 344 may take the form of algorithms, routines, and / or programs. When provided in whole or in part as software, the configuration and operational modules of the controller 324 may be provided and stored in any suitable manner or arrangement. For example, all of the algorithms, routines, and / or programs may be integrated into a single software program, where separate sections or portions of the software code perform various actions and / or activities of the system. In another embodiment, two or more independent modules (e.g., algorithms, routines, and / or programs) may be used to perform various actions and / or activities of the system.

[0053] Additionally, memory 328 may store or otherwise retain any suitable data, values, settings, software, algorithms, routines, programs, and / or any other information in any suitable manner or format. Also, in a preferred arrangement, microprocessor 326 may be in communication with memory 328 and may be operable to selectively access and / or process, alone or in combination, one or more of the data, values, information, algorithms, routines, and / or programs, such as those retained in memory stores 330-338, 342, and 344. For example, microprocessor 326 may execute or otherwise process algorithms, routines, or programs, such as from memory location modules 330, 334-338, 342, and 344, which may be operable to access, analyze, or otherwise utilize data and / or information, such as may be stored in memory location 332.

[0054] A manufacturing method 500 according to the disclosed subject matter for manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire as shown in FIG. 12 can include providing a first mold section including a first radiant heat source, such as mold section 402, as represented in FIG. 12 by reference numeral 502. Method 500 also includes providing a non-fully cured non-pneumatic tire 100 and positioning the non-fully cured non-pneumatic tire on or along the mold section such that the rim of the non-fully cured non-pneumatic tire is axially coextensive with the first radiant heat source, as represented in FIG. 12 by reference numeral 504 and 506, respectively. Method 500 further includes providing a second mold section including a second radiant heat source, such as mold section 404, as represented in FIG. 12 by reference numeral 508. Method 500 also includes positioning a second mold section over the first mold section such that the second radiant heat source is axially coextensive with the rim of the non-fully cured non-pneumatic tire, as represented in FIG. 12 by reference numeral 510. The method further concludes with curing the not-fully cured non-pneumatic tire through radiative transfer of heat from the first radiant heat source and the second radiant heat source, as indicated by reference numeral 512 in Figure 12. In a preferred arrangement, curing the not-fully cured non-pneumatic tire includes curing with a combination of conventional conductive heat transfer from a primary conductive heat source (e.g., primary conductive heat source 316) and radiative heat transfer from a first radiant heat source and a second radiant heat source (e.g., radiant heat sources 430 and / or 432).

[0055] When used herein in connection with certain features, elements, components, and / or structures, ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) may be used to indicate multiple distinct singular numbers or otherwise identify certain features, elements, components, and / or structures, and do not imply any order or sequence unless specifically dictated by the claim terms. Furthermore, terms such as "transverse" should be interpreted broadly. Thus, terms such as "transverse" can include a wide range of relative angular orientations, including, but not limited to, approximately perpendicular angular orientations. Additionally, terms such as "circumferential", "circumferentially", etc. should be interpreted broadly and can include, but are not limited to, circular shapes and / or configurations. In this regard, terms such as "circumferential", "circumferentially", etc. can be synonymous with terms such as "peripheral", "circumferentially", etc.

[0056] Furthermore, phrases such as "flowable material joint" as used herein should be construed to include any joint or connection in which a liquid or other flowable material (e.g., molten metal or combination of molten metals) is deposited or otherwise presented between adjacent components and operates to form a fixed, substantially fluid-tight connection therebetween. Examples of processes that can be used to form such flowable material joints include, but are not limited to, welding processes, brazing processes, and soldering processes. In such cases, one or more metallic materials and / or alloys may be used to form such flowable material joints in addition to any material from the components themselves. Another example of a process that can be used to form a flowable material joint includes applying, depositing, or otherwise providing an adhesive between adjacent components that is operable to form a fixed, substantially fluid-tight connection between the adjacent components. In such cases, it will be understood that any suitable adhesive material or combination of materials may be used, such as, for example, one-part and / or two-part epoxies.

[0057] Additionally, the term "gas" is used herein broadly to refer to any gaseous or vaporous fluid. Most commonly, air is used as the actuating medium in gas spring devices as described herein, as well as suspension systems and other components. However, it will be understood that any suitable gaseous fluid may alternatively be used.

[0058] It will be appreciated that although a number of different features and / or components are shown in the embodiments shown and described herein, no embodiment has been specifically shown and described as including all such features and components. Accordingly, it should be understood that the subject matter of the present disclosure is intended to encompass any and all combinations of the different features and components shown and described herein, and that any suitable arrangement of features and components may be used, without limitation, in any combination. Accordingly, it should be clearly understood that claims directed to any such combination of features and / or components are intended to find basis in this disclosure, whether or not specifically expressed herein. In order to assist the Patent Office and the readers of this application and the resulting patent in interpreting the claims appended hereto, applicants do not intend that any of the appended claims or any claim elements invoke 35 USC 112(f) unless the words "means for" or "step for" are expressly used in a particular claim.

[0059] Although the subject matter of the present disclosure has been described with reference to the foregoing embodiments, and considerable emphasis has been placed on the structure and structural interrelationships between the components of the disclosed embodiments, it will be understood that other embodiments may be devised, and that numerous changes may be made to the illustrated and described embodiments without departing from the principles set forth herein. Obviously, modifications and alterations to others will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the foregoing Detailed Description. It should therefore be clearly understood that the foregoing illustrative matter is to be construed as merely illustrative of the subject matter of the present disclosure, and not as limiting. It is therefore intended that the subject matter of the present disclosure be construed as including all such modifications and alterations.

Claims

1. 1. A method for manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire, comprising: providing a first mold section including an interior surface portion at least partially defining a first mold cavity portion, a first heat source thermally coupled to the first mold section outside the first mold cavity portion, and a second heat source operable independently of the first heat source, the second heat source disposed within the first mold cavity portion and spaced inwardly from the interior surface portion such that an annular gap is disposed between the second heat source and the interior surface portion; providing a non-fully cured, non-pneumatic tire having an axis of rotation, the tire including a rim and a quantity of non-fully cured material disposed about the rim, the rim including an annular wall portion extending circumferentially about the axis of rotation and a flange wall portion extending radially inwardly along the annular wall portion, the quantity of non-fully cured material disposed radially outwardly of the annular wall portion, the flange wall portion oriented transversely to the axis of rotation and including a first flange side and a second flange side; positioning the not fully cured, non-pneumatic tire along the first mold section such that at least a portion of the annular wall portion of the rim and at least a portion of the quantity of not fully cured material are disposed within the annular gap with the first flange side of the flange wall portion facing toward the second heat source and the second flange side of the flange wall portion facing away from the second heat source; providing a second mold section including a third heat source operable independently of at least the first heat source; positioning the second mold section over the first mold cavity portion such that the third heat source is disposed facing against the second flange side of the flange wall portion; and curing the non-pneumatic tire.

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire comprises conducting heat from the first heat source to the non-pneumatic tire, radiating heat from the second heat source to the rim of the non-pneumatic tire, and radiating heat from the third heat source to the rim of the non-pneumatic tire.

3. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire comprises operating the first heat source at a first nominal temperature for a first period of time.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire comprises operating the second heat source at a second nominal temperature for a second period of time.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire comprises operating the third heat source at a third nominal temperature for a third period of time.

6. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein providing the first mold section includes providing a first temperature sensor operably disposed within the first mold cavity portion, and positioning the not fully cured, non-pneumatic tire along the first mold section includes thermally coupling the rim to the first temperature sensor.

7. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein providing the second mold section includes providing a second temperature sensor operably disposed therealong, and positioning the second mold section over the first mold cavity portion includes thermally coupling the second temperature sensor to the rim.

8. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire includes selectively operating the second heat source such that at least a section of the rim is maintained within a predetermined temperature range.

9. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire includes selectively operating the third heat source such that at least a section of the rim is maintained within a predetermined temperature range.

10. 10. The method of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire comprises selectively operating the first heat source such that the amount of not fully cured material is maintained within a first temperature range for at least a first period of time and selectively operating the second and third heat sources such that the rim is maintained within a second temperature range for at least a second period of time.

11. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein curing the non-pneumatic tire comprises applying pressure to at least a portion of the not fully cured non-pneumatic tire.

12. 1. A mold assembly for curing an associated non-pneumatic tire including an associated amount of non-fully cured material disposed circumferentially about an associated rim, said associated rim including an associated annular wall and an associated flange wall, said mold assembly comprising: a first mold section including an interior surface portion at least partially defining a first mold cavity portion having a longitudinal axis, the first mold section thermally coupled to a primary conductive heat source; a second mold section displaceable relative to the first mold section between a first position in which the second mold section extends at least partially across the first mold cavity portion and a second position in which the first mold cavity portion is accessible for loading and unloading an associated non-pneumatic tire; a first radiant heat source operable independently from the primary conductive heat source, the first radiant heat source disposed within the first mold cavity portion and spaced inwardly from the interior surface portion such that an annular gap is disposed between the first radiant heat source and the interior surface portion, the annular gap being dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the associated annular wall of the associated rim and at least a portion of the associated quantity of not fully cured material; a second radiant heat source operable independently from the primary conductive heat source, the second radiant heat source supported on the second mold section and displaceable therewith between the first position and the second position of the second mold section, the second radiant heat source being axially spaced from the first radiant heat source to receive the associated flange wall of the associated rim between the first radiant heat source and the second radiant heat source at the first position of the second mold section.

13. The mold assembly of claim 12 , further comprising a first temperature sensor positioned along the first mold section for thermally coupling with the associated annular wall of the associated rim.

14. 14. The mold assembly of claim 12 or 13, further comprising a second temperature sensor positioned along the second mold section for thermally coupling with one of the associated annular wall and the associated flange wall of the associated rim.

15. 15. The mold assembly of claim 12, wherein the first radiant heat source includes a base wall on which a first plurality of radiant elements are supported, the first plurality of radiant elements being positioned about the base wall in spaced apart relationship to one another and facing radially outwardly toward the inner surface portion of the first mold section.

16. 16. A mold assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the second radiant heat source includes a base wall on which a second plurality of radiant elements are supported, the second plurality of radiant elements being positioned about the base wall in spaced apart relationship to one another and facing radially outwardly toward the inner surface portion of the first mold section.

17. 17. The mold assembly of claim 16, wherein the first mold cavity portion at least partially defines a mold axis, and the second plurality of radiant elements are oriented at an acute included angle relative to the mold axis so as to face radially outward toward the associated annular wall and axially toward the associated flange wall of the associated rim.

18. The mold assembly of any one of claims 12 to 17, further comprising an interstitial hardening system disposed within the first mold cavity portion in thermal communication with the primary conductive heat source.

19. 1. A tire curing system for curing a non-pneumatic tire, comprising: A mold assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 18; a memory and a processor communicatively coupled to the primary conductive heat source, the first radiant heat source, and the second radiant heat source, the memory comprising: operating the primary conductive heat source at a first nominal temperature for a first period of time; operating the first radiant heat source at a second nominal temperature for a second time period that is shorter than the first time period; and a processor comprising instructions to operate the second radiant heat source at a third nominal temperature for a third time period that is shorter than the first time period.

20. 20. The tire curing system of claim 19, wherein the mold assembly includes the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor, and the memory includes instructions for receiving outputs from the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor having a relationship with a temperature of the associated rim, and for operating at least one of the first radiant heat source and the second radiant heat source based on the outputs.

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