Rewinding system and method for unwinding tire components from a stock reel and outputting the tire components in the transport direction.

Abstract

To provide an unwinding system that does not require intervention by an operator and enhances production efficiency.SOLUTION: An unwinding system 100 comprises a reel station 160, a conveyor 108, and a transfer device. The conveyor extends at least partially above the reel station. The transfer device has a retaining surface for releasably retaining a tire component along a guide path S between a pick-up position for picking-up the tire component 9 from the reel station and a release position for disposing the tire component on the conveyor. At the release position, the retaining surface faces the conveyor. The retaining surface is offset between the release position and the pick-up position over an offset angle H of at least 90 degrees about an inverting axis that is parallel to the conveyor and perpendicular to the transport direction T.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an unwinding system and method for unwinding a tire component, such as a sidewall or breaker ply, from a stock reel, outputting the tire component onto an output conveyor of a tire component service, and then using it in the manufacture of a tire on a tire forming drum.

Background Art

[0002] Known unwinding systems are configured to receive a cartridge having a stock reel that holds a length of a tire component. The cartridge is typically configured to exit the cartridge in a direction that aligns with the conveying direction of the output conveyor. When the stock reel is exhausted, the cartridge is replaced by an operator and the tip of the tire component must be manually placed on the output conveyor. The tip of the tire component is joined to the rear end of a previously supplied tire component so that the tip of the tire component is pulled toward the tire forming drum by the rear end of the previously supplied tire component on the output conveyor and then can be used in the manufacture of the tire.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] A known drawback of rewinding systems is that the system must be stopped or slowed down to allow manual intervention by the operator. Therefore, during this period, the supply of tire parts to the tire part servicer is temporarily interrupted, which can result in downtime for the entire tire forming process. Furthermore, in order to facilitate the joining of the leading edge of a tire part with the trailing edge of a previously supplied tire part, the previously supplied tire part must remain in place on the supply conveyor until joining is complete. Therefore, the supply of the previously supplied tire part cannot be completed, and the entire tire forming process is interrupted. In addition, a safe working space must be established around the rewinding system to allow the operator to transfer the leading edge of the tire part from the stock reel to the output conveyor. This working space significantly increases the footprint of the rewinding system. Even when the machine is slowed down or stopped, manual intervention by the operator can prove dangerous.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a rewinding system and method that can improve at least one of the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0005] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a rewinding system for rewinding a tire component from a stock reel and outputting the tire component in a transport direction, the rewinding system comprising a reel station configured to receive a stock reel, an output conveyor for transporting the tire component in a transport direction, and a transport device for transporting the leading edge of the tire component from the reel station to the output conveyor, the output conveyor comprising a support surface that extends at least partially above the reel station and in a support plane parallel to the transport direction, the support surface configured to receive the tire component from the transport device and support the tire component on a first side of the support plane, and the transport device The vise includes a retaining member movable along a guide path between a pickup position on a second side of the support plane opposite to a first side of the support plane for picking up the tip of a tire part from a reel station, and a release position on the first side of the support plane for positioning the tip of the tire part on the support plane of an output conveyor, the retaining member having a retaining surface for releasingly holding the tip of the tire part to the retaining member, the retaining surface facing the support plane on the first side of the support plane, and the retaining surface being offset between the release position and the pickup position by an offset angle of at least 90 degrees about a reversal axis parallel to the support plane and perpendicular to the conveying direction.

[0006] In other words, the transfer device is configured to mechanically and / or automatically invert or tip the tire component between the pickup position and the release position over a range of at least 90 degrees. Thus, the tire component can be transported in a transport direction different from the output direction of the reel. As a result, the reel can be positioned at least partially below the output conveyor. Consequently, the installation area, i.e., the surface area, of the unwinding system can be reduced. Furthermore, the transfer device can reliably transfer the leading edge of the tire component from the stock reel to the output conveyor without operator intervention. As a result, workplace safety can be improved.

[0007] By holding the tire component in a retaining member, the tire component can be attracted to and / or held by the retaining member from only one side. As a result, the tire component can be positioned on the support surface by the retaining member before being released, and consequently, the tire component is always held by either the retaining member or the support surface, or both. Thus, it is possible to prevent the tire component from being transferred uncontrolled from the retaining member to the support surface.

[0008] Preferably, the retaining member comprises a retainer defining a retaining surface and one or more retaining elements for holding the tip of a tire component to the retainer at the retaining surface. One or more retaining elements can effectively hold the tire component to the retainer from only one side. More specifically, one or more retaining elements can be configured on or within the retainer.

[0009] In a further embodiment, the retaining member is movable along a guide path to an intermediate position between a pickup position and a release position, where the retaining surface faces outward from the support plane on a second side of the support plane. Preferably, the retaining surface of the retaining member is parallel to the support plane at the intermediate position. Thus, the offset between the pickup position and the release position can be greater than 90 degrees. In detail, the rewinding system can pick up the tip of a tire part at a pickup position where the retaining surface faces outward from the support plane and / or parallel to the support plane. Thus, the reel station can be positioned further and / or entirely below the output conveyor.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the rewinding system is configured to rewind tire components from a stock reel toward the output side of a reel station facing in the opposite direction to the conveying direction. Preferably, the holding member is located on the output side of the reel station at the pickup position. In detail, the tire components are rewinded from the reel station and supplied to the output conveyor on the same side of the reel station. Thus, the installation area of ​​the rewinding system can be further reduced.

[0011] In a further advantageous embodiment, the rewind system further comprises a stock reel in the reel station, the stock reel being rotatable about a stock reel axis, and the retaining surface of the retaining member facing outward from the stock reel axis when the retaining member is in the pickup position and facing the stock reel axis when the retaining member is in the release position. Typically, the stock reel is included in a cassette, cartridge, or carriage on which the stock reel is rotatably supported. Thus, the reel station can be configured to receive a cassette, cartridge, or carriage containing a stock reel.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the transfer device further comprises a pressing member for pressing down the tip of the tire part on the support surface of the output conveyor when the holding member releases the tip. Thus, the tip of the tire part can be firmly held on the support surface of the output conveyor when the tip is released from the holding surface. Thus, it is possible to prevent the tip from sliding backward toward the reel station under the influence of gravity. Thus, it is not necessary to join the tip to the rear end of a previously supplied tire part. This means that the supply of previously supplied tire parts can be completed while a new tire part is being prepared for supply at the same time. Thus, the supply of tire parts to the tire forming drum can be made more consistent and / or downtime of the tire part servicer can be reduced.

[0013] In further embodiments, the retaining member comprises one or more vacuum retaining elements for picking up and / or holding the tip by suction. Vacuum can be used to securely hold the tire part. Furthermore, the vacuum retaining elements can be selectively actuated to hold the tire part to the retaining surface or to release it from the retaining surface.

[0014] In further embodiments, the guide path is a circular or substantially circular path. A circular guide path may be convenient for inverting or tipping the tire component. Furthermore, the tire component can be gradually inverted along the circular or substantially circular path.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the transport comprises an arm rotatable about an arm axis between a pickup position and a release position, wherein the retaining member is transported by the arm and spaced away from the arm axis. Preferably, the arm axis is parallel to the retaining surface. Conveniently, the arm can transport the retaining member along a circular or substantially circular guide path between the pickup position and the release position.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the arm axis is a reversal axis. Therefore, the tire component can be reversed around the arm axis.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the retaining surface is offset relative to the arm axis in an offset direction perpendicular to the retaining surface. In other words, the arm does not extend directly radially between the arm axis and the retaining surface. As a result, a radial gap can be formed between the arm axis and the retaining surface. Thus, interference between the arm and the output conveyor and / or reel station can be prevented.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the retaining member is rotatable relative to the arm about a retaining axis parallel to and spaced away from the arm axis. Therefore, the orientation of the retaining surface may be matched to the initial orientation of the tire component in the pickup position. Thus, better retention of the tire component can be obtained. Furthermore, the orientation of the retaining surface may be matched to the orientation of the support plane in the release position. Thus, the tip of the tire component can be more reliably positioned on the support surface of the output conveyor.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the transfer device further comprises a pressing member for pressing down the tip of the tire component on the support surface of the output conveyor when the transfer device releases the tip, the pressing member being carried by an arm between a pickup position and a release position. Thus, the tip of the tire component can be firmly held on the support surface of the output conveyor when the tip is released from the holding surface by the pressing member, which is carried by the same arm and is therefore in contact with the holding surface or a position near the holding surface.

[0020] In one embodiment, the pressing member comprises a pressing roller rotatable about a roller axis. Preferably, the roller axis is parallel to the holding surface. Therefore, the pressing member can press the tire part against the support surface even when the output conveyor is transporting the tire part in the transport direction, i.e., when the tire part is passing below in the transport direction, by rotating on the tire part. Thus, the tire part can be held against the support surface by the pressing member until a tire part long enough to be held against the support surface by friction alone is transported to the output conveyor. Therefore, the leading edge of the tire part can be held more reliably on the output conveyor.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the pressing member includes a pressing drive device for moving the pressing roller in a pressing direction perpendicular to the roller axis. Thus, the pressing member can actively and / or adjustably press the tire component against a support surface.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the transfer device further includes a fixing member that is movable between a fixed position for securing the tip to a holding member and an unfixed position for releasing the tip from the holding member, the fixing member being carried by an arm. Thus, the fixing member can secure the tip of the tire component to the holding surface along the entire guidance path.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the transfer device further includes a fixing member that is movable between a fixed position for securing the tip to the holding member and an unfixed position for releasing the tip from the holding member. Thus, the tip of the tire component can be actively fixed to the holding surface of the holding member.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the transfer device further includes a fixing member that is movable between a fixed position for securing the tip to a holding member and an unfixed position for releasing the tip from the holding member, the fixing member being carried by an arm. Thus, the fixing member can secure the tip of the tire component to the holding surface along the entire guidance path.

[0025] In an alternative embodiment, the transfer device comprises an endless drive for driving the retaining member along a guide path between a pickup position and a release position. The endless drive is not limited to rotation around a single axis, as with the arm described above. Instead, it can define a guide path, at least partially. Thus, the guide path can be determined more freely, i.e., to ensure that the length of the tire component behind the retained tip remains away from a particular part of the reel station and / or supply conveyor.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the guiding path extends parallel to the support plane at or near the release position. In other words, the holding member can preferably move along the output conveyor in the conveying direction at the same speed as the output conveyor. Thus, the holding member can continue to hold the tip of the tire part while the tip is being conveyed in the conveying direction by the output conveyor. Specifically, the holding member can guide the tire part onto the output conveyor until a length of the tire part sufficient to hold the tire part on the output conveyor by only friction is disposed on the output conveyor.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the guiding path extends in a guiding plane, and the endless drive device comprises two endless drive elements spaced transversely perpendicular to the guiding plane and extending parallel to the guiding path. Preferably, the endless drive elements are belts or chains. Thus, the holding member can be simultaneously driven along the guiding path by the two parallel endless drive elements. The two parallel drive elements can cancel out the moment transmitted to the holding member around the guiding path. As a result, additional guiding means for guiding the holding member along the guiding path can be omitted.

[0028] In a further embodiment, the rewinding system further comprises a support member disposed on the opposite side of the holding surface at the pickup position for supporting the tip of the tire part relative to the holding surface. The support member can hold the tip of the tire part in a fixed position when holding the tip against the holding surface.

[0029] In that alternative embodiment, the holding member comprises at least two retractable claws, which are movable between a retracted position where the claws are recessed with respect to the holding surface and a gripping position where the claws project from the holding surface in order to hold the tire part against the holding surface. Preferably, the at least two claws each extend in a respective claw direction that traverses or is perpendicular to the holding surface, and the claw direction of the first claw among the at least two claws and the claw direction of the second claw among the at least two claws extend at an inclination angle with respect to each other. The inclination angle between the at least two claws enables the holding member to hold the tire part in a manner such that it is less likely to accidentally drop.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the transfer device comprises at least one tip sensor for detecting the presence of the tip of the tire part at the holding member. Thus, the holding member can selectively hold the tip of the tire part in response to the signal of the at least one tip sensor.

[0031] In a further embodiment, the transfer device comprises two holding surfaces for holding two tire parts respectively, and the two holding surfaces are spaced apart in a lateral direction perpendicular to the guiding plane. Thus, the rewinding system can rewind the two tire parts simultaneously and / or in parallel. This can be particularly beneficial when rewinding sidewalls that are generally processed in pairs. Alternatively, the two holding surfaces can each hold the outer portion of a single tire part.

[0032] In one embodiment thereof, the holding surfaces are movable relative to each other in the lateral direction. Preferably, the holding surfaces are individually movable in the lateral direction. Thus, in the case of two tire parts, the holding surfaces may be accurately positioned at the lateral positions of the tire parts. In the case of a single tire part, the holding surfaces may be accurately positioned at the outer portion of the single tire part.

[0033] In a further embodiment, the transfer device comprises at least one lateral drive for moving each of the holding surfaces laterally. The at least one lateral drive may comprise, for example, a single spindle drive having opposing treads for moving the holding surfaces simultaneously toward or away from each other. Alternatively, a single drive may be provided for moving one of the holding surfaces laterally, or two drive may be provided for moving the holding surfaces laterally individually.

[0034] In a further embodiment, the holding device comprises two lateral sensors, each for detecting one outer portion of each of the two tire components. Thus, the holding surface may be shifted laterally in response to the sensor signals of each lateral sensor.

[0035] In further embodiments, the offset angle is between 100 and 300 degrees, preferably between 120 and 280 degrees, and most preferably between 180 and 270 degrees. The output conveyor may extend, for example, horizontally or substantially horizontally. The leading edge of the tire component may be positioned on a set of rollers, for example, or be freely suspended, i.e., extend vertically or substantially vertically.

[0036] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for unwinding a tire component from a stock reel and outputting the tire component in the transport direction using the unwinding system according to the present invention, the method being: - A step of using a transfer device to pick up the tip of a tire part coming from the stock reel at the pickup position, - A step of guiding the tip along the guidance path from the pickup position to the release position while holding the tip on the holding surface, - The step of releasing the tip of the tire part from the holding surface, thereby transferring the tip to the support surface of the output conveyor in the released position. Includes.

[0037] The method involves using the system according to the present invention. Therefore, the same advantages apply.

[0038] In one embodiment, the method is - A step of returning the tire component, particularly the leading edge of the tire component, from the release position on the output conveyor to the pickup position on the reel station. This further includes: Preferably, the tire components are wound simultaneously around the stock reel. Returning at least a portion of the tire components, particularly the leading edge of the tire components, towards the reel station can be useful when unused lengths of the tire components remain on the output conveyor, for example, when switching to a new batch. Thus, unused lengths can be collected at the reel station to clean the output conveyor for a new batch. Thus, the unused lengths themselves can be used for another batch.

[0039] In a further embodiment, the transfer device further comprises a pressing member for pressing down the tip of a tire component on the support surface of an output conveyor, and the method further includes the step of pressing down the tire component on the support surface of the output conveyor with the pressing member when the transfer device releases the tire component. Thus, the tip of the tire component can be firmly held on the support surface of the output conveyor when the tip is released from the holding surface.

[0040] In a further embodiment, the transfer device further comprises at least one tip sensor for detecting the presence of the tip of a tire component on the holding surface, and before picking up the tip of the tire component, - The step of winding the tire part back toward the holding surface, - A step of detecting the presence of the tip on the holding surface using at least one tip sensor. The step of picking up the tip of the tire component is performed in response to a sensor signal from at least one tip sensor. The tire component may be partially unwound, for example, by rotating a stock reel around its reel axis. Once the tip is unwound and fed along at least one tip sensor, the unwinding system can automatically and / or accurately pick up the tip of the tire component in response to a sensor signal from the at least one tip sensor.

[0041] In a further embodiment, the guidance path extends within the guidance plane, and the transfer device each comprises two holding surfaces for holding two tire parts, the two holding surfaces being movable relative to each other in a lateral direction perpendicular to the guidance plane, and the holding device further comprises two lateral sensors for each detecting the outer portion of each tire part, and before picking up the leading edge of the tire part, the method -A step of using two lateral sensors to detect the outer part of each tire component, - A step of moving the two retaining surfaces relative to each other in response to signals from the respective lateral sensors in order to position the retaining surfaces relative to the tire component. This includes the following: Therefore, the retaining surface may be precisely positioned at the lateral position of the tire component in response to the sensor signals of the two lateral sensors. Alternatively, in the case of a single tire component, the retaining surface may be precisely positioned on the outer side of the single tire component in response to the sensor signals of the two lateral sensors.

[0042] The various embodiments and features described and illustrated herein can be applied individually as far as possible. These individual embodiments, in particular, the embodiments and features described in the attached dependent claims, may be the subject of a divisional patent application.

[0043] The present invention will be revealed based on exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying schematic diagrams. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0044] [Figure 1A] This is a side view of a rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] This is a side view of a rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1C] This is a side view of a rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1D] This is a side view of a rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1E] This is a side view of a rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1F] This is a side view of a rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1G] This is a side view of a rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] This is a side view of an alternative rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2B] This is a side view of an alternative rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2C]This is a side view of an alternative rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2D] This is a side view of an alternative rewinding system during the process of transferring tire parts from a stock reel to an output conveyor, according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view of the transfer device of the alternative rewinding system along line III-III. [Figure 4A] Figure 2A shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the retaining member of the transfer device of the alternative rewind system between its different operating modes. [Figure 4B] Figure 2B shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the retaining member of the transfer device of the alternative rewind system between the different operating modes. [Figure 4C] Figure 2C shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the retaining member of the transfer device of the alternative rewind system between its different operating modes. [Figure 4D] Figure 2D shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the retaining member of the transfer device of the alternative rewind system between its different operating modes. [Figure 4E] Figures 2A-2D show detailed cross-sectional views of the retaining member of the transfer device of the alternative rewind system between its different operating modes. [Figure 4F] Figures 2A-2D show detailed cross-sectional views of the retaining member of the transfer device of the alternative rewind system between its different operating modes. [Figure 4G] Figures 2A-2D show detailed cross-sectional views of the retaining member of the transfer device of the alternative rewind system between its different operating modes. [Figure 5A] This is a side view of an alternative rewinding system according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5B] This is a side view of an alternative rewinding system according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A]This is a side view of a further alternative rewinding system according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] This is a side view of a further alternative rewinding system according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6C] This is a side view of a further alternative rewinding system according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6D] This is a side view of a further alternative rewinding system according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] Figures 1A to 1G show a rewinding system 100 or a feed system for rewinding tire parts 9 from a stock reel 6 and outputting the tire parts 9 in the transport direction T. The rewinding system 100 comprises a reel station 160 for receiving the stock reel 6 and an output conveyor 108 for transporting the tire parts 9 in the transport direction T.

[0046] As shown in Figures 1A to 1G, the output conveyor 108 extends at least partially above the reel station 160. The output conveyor 108 includes a support surface 181 that extends within the support plane P to support the tire parts 9 on a first side of the support plane P. The support plane P extends parallel to the transport direction T. Preferably, the output conveyor 108 further includes a loop wheel 182 for supporting the loop of the tire parts 9 and guiding it toward the support surface 181. The loop wheel 182 is rotatable about an axis of rotation parallel to the support plane P and perpendicular to the transport direction T.

[0047] In the tire molding process, tire components 9 or intermediate products are often wound around a stock reel 6 for storage and / or transport between processes. The tire components 9 may then be unwound from the stock reel 6 for use in further processes.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the rewinding system 100 comprises a single reel station 160 for receiving stock reels 6. However, the rewinding system 100 may comprise several reel stations 160 for receiving multiple stock reels 6 so that when a stock reel 6 is used up, the rewinding system 100 switches to rewinding the next stock reel 6. The reel stations 160 are located below the output conveyor 108, i.e., on the second side of the support plane P opposite to the first side of the support plane P.

[0049] The stock reel 6 is rotatable about a central axis A for winding and / or unwinding the tire component 9. The stock reel has a circumferential surface 61 that extends circumferentially about the central axis A and faces radially outward with respect to the central axis A. The tire component 9 stored in the stock reel 6 is at least partially wound around the circumferential surface 61.

[0050] The tire component 9 is typically wound around a circumferential surface 61 together with a liner 90 to prevent the continuous windings of the tire component 9 from sticking together. Preferably, the reel station 160 further comprises a liner reel 107 for receiving the liner 90. The tire component 9 and the liner 90 are separated by winding the liner 90 around the liner reel 107 before processing the tire component 9. The liner reel 107 may also be included in a reel carriage or reel cassette. For clarity, the liner reel 107 is omitted from Figures 1A and 1B.

[0051] The tire component 9 has a first surface 91 that faces radially outward when the tire component 9 is wound around the circumferential surface 61. The tire component 9 further has a second surface 92 opposite to the first surface 91. The second surface 92 faces radially inward when the tire component 9 is wound around the circumferential surface 61 of the reel 6.

[0052] The reel station 160 is configured to receive the stock reel 6 so that the stock reel 6 can rotate about its central axis A. The unwinding system 100 is configured to rotate the stock reel 6 about its central axis A in order to unwind the tire parts 9 from the stock reel 6 toward the output side of the reel station 160, which faces in the direction opposite to the transport direction T.

[0053] The reel station 160 may include a drive device (not shown) for rotating the stock reel 6 around its central axis A to unwind the tire part 9. Alternatively, the unwinding of the tire part 9 may be driven by an output conveyor 108. The reel station 160 includes a plurality of guide rolls 161 for guiding the tip LE of the tire part 9 toward a pickup position on the output side of the reel station 160, as shown in Figure 1B. The pickup position is located on the second side of the support plane P. At the pickup position, the tip LE is suspended from the guide rolls 161, i.e., the tip extends vertically or substantially vertically due to gravity.

[0054] The stock reel 6 is typically contained within a reel carriage or reel cassette (not shown). In this case, the reel station 160 is configured to receive the reel cassette or reel carriage. The reel carriage or reel cassette may also include a guide roll 161. As a result, when the reel carriage or reel cassette is received by the reel station 160, the leading edge LE of the tire component 9 may be easily positioned for pickup.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1A, the rewinding system 100 may further include a sensor 190, in particular a camera, at the leading edge LE of the tire part 9 in the lateral direction L perpendicular to the transport direction T and / or parallel to the support plane P, for detecting parameters indicating the lateral position, such as the lateral center or lateral edge of the tire part 9. The sensor 190 is configured to observe the leading edge LE of the tire part 9 before the tire part 9 is transported to the output conveyor 108. In this example, the sensor 190 is located at the pickup position, or upstream of the pickup position, more specifically on or between the guide rolls 161. The rewinding system 100 further includes a lateral drive unit 192 for generating a relative displacement between the reel carriage, reel cassette, or reel station 160 as a whole in the lateral direction L relative to the output conveyor 108. In this example, the lateral drive unit 192 moves the reel carriage, reel cassette, or reel station 160 as a whole.

[0056] The rewind system 100 further comprises a control unit 191 that is operably and electronically and / or functionally connected to the sensor 190 and the lateral drive unit 192 in order to control the lateral drive unit 192 in response to signals received and / or processed by the control unit 191 from the sensor 190.

[0057] Figures 2A to 2D show an alternative reel station 260. As shown in the figures, the tire component 9 is typically wound around a circumferential surface 61 together with a liner 90 to prevent the continuous windings of the tire component 9 from sticking together. The alternative reel station 260 further comprises a liner reel 207. The tire component 9 and the liner 90 are separated by winding the liner 90 around the liner reel 207 before processing the tire component 9. The liner reel 207 may also be included in a reel carriage or reel cassette.

[0058] As further shown in Figures 1A to 1G, the rewinding system 100 further comprises a transfer device 101 for transferring the leading edge LE of the tire component from the reel station 160 to the output conveyor 108. More specifically, the transfer device 101 is configured to pick up the leading edge LE of the tire component 9 at or near the reel station 106 and position the leading edge LE at a release position on the output conveyor 108, as shown in Figure 1E.

[0059] The transfer device 101 includes a retaining member 110 that is movable along a guide path S between a pickup position and a release position. Preferably, the guide path S extends in a guide plane that traverses or is perpendicular to a support plane P. At the pickup position, the retaining member 110 is located on the output side of the reel station 160.

[0060] The retaining member 110 includes a retaining surface 111 for releasably holding the tip LE of the tire component 9 to the retaining member 110 along the guide path S. The retaining member 110 includes a retainer 112 that forms or defines the retaining surface 111 for engaging and / or holding the tip LE of the tire component 9. The retaining member 110 may include, for example, one or more retaining elements 113, in particular a vacuum retaining element or a magnetic retaining element for picking up and / or holding the tip by attractive or magnetic force. One or more retaining elements 113 are provided in or thereof in the retainer 112 and are configured to engage and / or attract the tire component 9 toward the retainer 112, thereby holding the tire component 9 to the retainer 112.

[0061] As shown in Figure 1E, in the release position, the retaining surface 111 faces the support plane P on the first side of the support plane P. In other words, the retaining surface 111 faces toward the stock reel axis A. In the pickup position, the retaining surface 111 faces outward from the stock reel axis A. More specifically, in the pickup position, as shown in Figure 1B, the retaining surface 111 is offset relative to the release position by an offset angle H around a reversal axis parallel to the support plane P and perpendicular to the transport direction T. In other words, the tire part is reversed or tipped over around the reversal axis between the pickup position and the release position. In the pickup position, the retaining surface 111 is away from the stock reel axis. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the offset angle H is about 270 degrees. Preferably, the offset angle H is at least 90 degrees. More preferably, the offset angle H is between 100 and 300 degrees. Even more preferably, the offset angle H is between 120 and 280 degrees. Most preferably, the offset angle is between 180 and 270 degrees.

[0062] For example, as shown in Figure 1C, the retaining member 110 is further movable along the guide path S to an intermediate position between the pickup position and the release position. At the intermediate position, the retaining surface 111 faces outward from the support plane P on the second side of the support plane P. Preferably, at the intermediate position, the retaining member 110 is further movable so as to face outward from the support plane P on the second side of the support plane P, and the retaining surface 111 is parallel to the support plane P.

[0063] In the embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 1G, the transfer device 101 further comprises an arm 103 rotatable about an arm axis B. Preferably, the arm axis B is parallel to the holding surface 111. The holding member 110 is carried by the arm 103. In detail, the holding member 110 is associated with the arm 103 so as to rotate together with the arm 103 about the arm axis B. The holding member 110 is spaced away from the arm axis B. In detail, the holding member 110 is spaced radially away from the arm axis B. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiments, the holding member is offset with respect to the arm axis B in an offset direction perpendicular to the holding surface 111. The arm 103 is configured to rotate the holding member 110 between a pickup position and a release position, i.e., the holding path S is circular or substantially circular. In other words, the reversal axis coincides with the arm axis B.

[0064] As best shown in Figure 1B, the retaining member 110 is rotatable relative to the arm 103 about the retaining axis D. The retaining axis is parallel to the arm axis B and spaced apart from the arm axis B.

[0065] As further shown in Figures 1A to 1G, the transfer device 101 further comprises a pressing member 104 for pressing the leading edge LE of the tire component 9 down onto the support surface 181 of the output conveyor 108. The pressing member 104 is carried by an arm 103. Preferably, the pressing member 104 is positioned on the arm 103 in close proximity to or near the holding member 110. More preferably, the pressing member 104 is positioned on the arm 103 radially inward from the holding member 110.

[0066] In this particular embodiment, the pressing member 104 comprises a pressing roller 140 rotatable about a roller axis R. The roller axis R is parallel to the holding surface 111. Preferably, the roller axis R is perpendicular to the guide plane. The pressing member 104 further comprises a pressing drive device 141 for moving or displacing the pressing roller 140 in a pressing direction perpendicular to the roller axis R.

[0067] The transfer device 101 further includes a fixing member 102 for securing the tip LE of the tire component 9 to the holding member 110. The fixing member 102 is movable between a fixed position for securing the tip LE to the holding surface 111, as shown, for example in Figure 1C, and an unfixed position for releasing the tip LE from the holding surface 111, as shown, for example in Figure 1D. The fixing member 102 is carried by an arm 103. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixing member 102 includes a beam that is pivotable about a pivot axis parallel to and spaced away from the arm axis B. The beam can pivot about the pivot axis to firmly press the tip LE of the tire component 9 against the holding surface 111.

[0068] Figures 5A and 5B show an alternative unwinding system 300 according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which has a wrinkle-preventing roll 301 for reducing or eliminating wrinkles in the tire part 9 when the tire part 9 is being wound onto a stock reel 6 in a winding direction W opposite to the transport direction T. The alternative unwinding system 300 further comprises a wrinkle-preventing drive 302 for moving or pressing the wrinkle-preventing roll 301 onto the tire part 9 between the pickup position and the stock reel 6. In detail, the wrinkle-preventing drive 302 moves the wrinkle-preventing roll 301 between an operating position facing one of the guide rolls 161 of the reel station 160 and a non-operating position further away from the guide roll 161. In the operating position, the wrinkle-preventing roll 301 cooperates with the guide roll 161 to press, smooth, and / or flatten any wrinkles in the tire part 9.

[0069] Figures 6A to 6D show a further alternative rewind station 400 according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which differs from the aforementioned rewind stations 100, 400 in that its transfer device 401 is not provided by a fixed member carried by an arm 103. Instead, the further alternative rewind station 400, as shown in Figures 6B and 6C, is provided with a fixed member 402 supported separately from the transfer device 401 to press, push, or bias a tire component 9 against the retaining surface 111 of a retaining member 110. In detail, the fixed member 402 is used to press the tire component 9 on the retaining body 112 or against one or more retaining elements 113 within the retaining body, as shown in Figure 6B, so that they can effectively attract and / or hold the tire component 9. Once the tire component 9 is firmly held, the fixed member 402 can be moved away from the retaining member 110, as shown in Figure 6D, so that the retaining member 110 can effectively hold the tire component 9 from only one side.

[0070] A further alternative winding station 400 is provided with a tip sensor 412 for detecting the presence or arrival of the tip LE of the tire component 9 at a specific position relative to the holding surface 111. The signal from the tip sensor 412 can be used to stop the supply of the strip 9 and / or to activate the fixing member 402. Thus, the position of the tip LE relative to the holding surface 111 can be determined more precisely, thereby enabling more accurate bonding later in the process.

[0071] In this example, the fixing member 402 comprises a fixing roll 420 for pressing the tire component 9, more specifically a brush roller or foam roller, and a fixing drive device 421 for moving the fixing roll 420 relative to the holding surface 111. In this example, the fixing drive device 421 is configured to move the fixing roll 420 toward the holding surface 111 and away from the holding surface 111 in a direction perpendicular to the holding surface 111, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B, but it can also be configured to move the fixing roll 420 parallel to the holding surface 111, as shown in Figures 6B and 6C, and parallel movement can be used to roll the fixing roll 420 over the tire component 9, thereby gradually pressing the tire component 9 against the holding surface 111.

[0072] Next, using Figures 1A to 1G, a method for unwinding the tire parts 9 from the stock reel 6 is described.

[0073] As shown in Figure 1A, the stock reel 6 is located within the reel station 160. The tip LE of the tire component 9 is suspended from the guide roll 161 on the output side of the reel station 160. The arm 103 rotates around the arm axis B to a pickup position for picking up the tip LE of the tire component 9. The fixing member 102 is in an unfixed position to allow the tip LE to be received into the holding surface 111.

[0074] As shown in Figure 1B, the stock reel 6 rotates around the stock reel axis A to unwind a portion of the tire part 9 from the stock reel 6. The tip LE of the tire part 9 is shifted to a position facing the retaining surface 111. The retaining member 110 rotates around the retaining axis D to align the retaining surface 111 with the second surface 92 of the tire part 9. Here, the fixing member 102 rotates from an unfixed position to a fixed position to shift the tip LE of the tire part 9 toward the retaining surface so that it contacts the retaining surface. Subsequently, the tip LE is held in place by the retaining surface 111 using a vacuum element (not shown).

[0075] As shown in Figure 1C, the arm 103 rotates around the arm axis B from the pickup position to the intermediate position. The holding member 110 moves along the guide path S together with the arm 103. The tip LE of the tire part 9 is held by the holding member 110. Furthermore, the tip LE of the tire part 9 is fixed to the holding surface 111 by the fixing member 102. Due to the displacement of the tip LE of the tire part along the guide path S, a portion of the tire part 9 is unwound from the stock reel 6.

[0076] As shown in Figure 1D, the arm 103 rotates further around the arm axis B toward a further intermediate position closer to the release position. Here, the retaining surface 111 faces the support surface 181 on the first side of the support plane P. The fixing member 102 has moved to an unfixed position. Thus, here the tip LE is held only by the retaining member 110.

[0077] As shown in Figure 1E, the arm 103 rotates further around the arm axis B toward the release position. Here, the retaining member 110 presses the tip LE of the tire part 9 on the support surface 181. In detail, the first surface 91 of the tire part 9 comes into contact with the support surface 181. The vacuum element of the retaining member 110 stops moving to release the tip LE of the tire part. The pressing roller 140 is displaced in contact with the second surface 92 of the tire part 9 by actinguating the pressing actuator 141.

[0078] As an addition or alternative, the rotation of the loop wheel 182 can be fixed, for example by using a brake, to prevent the tire component 9 from slipping back into the loop. In yet another alternative embodiment, a holding element, such as a vacuum means, is provided on the conveyor 108 to hold the tire component 9 in place on the support surface 181.

[0079] As shown in Figure 1F, the pressing actuator 141 is operating to firmly press the pressing roller 140 against the tire part 9. The arm 103 is rotating away from the pickup position. Here, the holding surface 111 completely releases the tip LE of the tire part 9. At this point, the output conveyor 108 is driven to transport the tip LE of the tire part 9 in the transport direction T.

[0080] As shown in Figure 1G, the tip LE of the tire part 9 is further conveyed in the conveying direction T. The arm 103 has rotated to an idle position where the holding member 110 and the pressing member 104 are no longer in contact with the tire part 9. At this point, the tip LE of the tire part 9 is held by the output conveyor 108, for example, by gravity and / or adhesion of the tire part 9. The tire part 9 is then further conveyed in the conveying direction T.

[0081] The retaining member 10 may be returned to a pickup position for picking up the tip LE of the subsequent tire part 9, for example, to switch to a new batch or new cycle of the method. Preferably, the retaining member 10 is returned to the pickup position along the guide path S. In other words, the arm 103 rotates backward from the release position to the pickup position.

[0082] Alternatively, any unused or wasted length of the tire component 9 may be transferred or fed back toward the reel station 60. This may be useful for cleaning the output conveyor 108 before switching to a new batch or new cycle of the method. In detail, the retaining member 10 may be positioned above the tire component 9 in a released position, either at or near the tip LE of the tire component 9. The tip LE may then be engaged in a manner similar to that described above. The retaining member 10 may then be returned from the released position to the pickup position. Preferably, the tip LE is returned from the released position to the pickup position while the stock reel 6 rotates to wind the tire component around the stock reel 6.

[0083] Figures 2A to 2D show an alternative rewinding system 200 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. The rewinding system 200 comprises an alternative reel station 260, an alternative output conveyor 208, and an alternative transfer device 201.

[0084] The reel station 260 differs from the aforementioned reel station 160 in that it further includes a liner reel for winding the liner 90, which is wound onto the stock reel 6 along with the tire components.

[0085] The output conveyor 208 differs from the output conveyor 108 described above in that its support surface 281 extends in the transport direction T within a horizontal or substantially horizontal support plane S. However, the support plane S may extend at an oblique angle to the horizontal plane. The output conveyor 208 further comprises a loop wheel 282 for supporting the loop of the tire part 9 and guiding it toward the support surface 281. The loop wheel 282 is rotatable about an axis of rotation parallel to the support plane P and perpendicular to the transport direction T.

[0086] As best shown in Figures 3 and 4A-4G, the transfer device 201 includes an alternative retaining device 210 for holding the leading edge LE of the tire component 9. More specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the retaining device 210 includes two retaining surfaces 211 for holding two tire components 9, such as two side walls. Alternatively, the two retaining surfaces 211 can hold the outer portion of a single tire component 9.

[0087] As shown in Figures 2A to 2D, the transfer device 201 includes an endless drive device 203 for driving the holding member 210 along the guide path S between the pickup position shown in Figure 2A and the release position shown in Figure 2C.

[0088] As best shown in Figure 3, the endless drive unit 203 comprises two endless elements 231. The endless elements 231 may be, for example, a belt, a toothed belt, or a chain. The endless elements 231 are spaced apart in a lateral direction L perpendicular to the guide plane. Preferably, the endless elements 231 extend in their respective planes parallel to the guide plane. As can be seen in Figures 2A to 2D, the endless elements are guided around a sprocket 232. The guide path S of the retaining member 210 is defined by the endless elements 231 arranged around the sprocket 232. Preferably, at least one of the sprockets 232 is a drive sprocket 232 for driving the endless elements 231 along the guide path S.

[0089] As can be seen further in Figure 3, part or part of the guide path S at or near the release position extends parallel to the support plane P, i.e., in the conveying direction T. Preferably, the endless drive unit 203 is configured to drive the holding member 210 along the said portion at the same speed as the output conveyor 208.

[0090] As further shown in Figure 3, the retaining member 210 includes two tip sensors 212, each for detecting the presence of each tip LE of the tire component 9 on or near the retaining surface 211. The tip sensors 212 are movable together with the retaining member 210. Alternatively, the tip sensors LE may be stationary at or near the pickup position.

[0091] The two retaining surfaces 211 of the retaining member 210 are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction L. In this particular embodiment, the retaining surfaces 211 are movable relative to each other. The retaining member 210 comprises two lateral drive devices 218 for each driving each of the retaining surfaces 211 in the lateral direction L. In detail, the lateral drive devices 218 are spindle drive devices. Alternatively, the retaining member may comprise a single lateral drive device, such as a double-threaded spindle drive device, for simultaneously driving the retaining surfaces 211 toward or away from each other. In a further alternative embodiment, only one of the retaining surfaces 211 is movable in the lateral direction L to affect the relative displacement.

[0092] As further shown in Figure 3, the holding device 213 further comprises two lateral sensors 213 for detecting the outer portion of the tire component 9, each. The tip sensor 212 and the lateral sensors 213 may be, for example, optical sensors, proximity sensors, or tactile sensors.

[0093] As shown in Figures 4A to 4G, the retaining member 210 comprises at least two claws 215 for holding the tire component 9. More specifically, the retaining member 210 comprises a claw base 214 and a base drive device 216 for driving the claw base 214 in a direction traversing or perpendicular to the retaining surface 211 in order to bring the retaining surface 211 into contact with the tire component 9. The base drive device 216 may be, for example, a pneumatic drive or a servo motor.

[0094] The retaining member 210 further includes a claw drive device 217 for moving at least two claws 215 between a storage position in which the claws 215 are recessed relative to the retaining surface 211 and a gripping position in which at least two claws 215 protrude from the retaining surface 211 to hold the tire part 9 to the retaining surface 211.

[0095] At least two claws 215 each extend in their respective claw directions, either traversing the retaining surface 211 or perpendicular to the retaining surface 211. More specifically, the claw directions of the first of the at least two claws 215 and the claw directions of the second of the at least two claws 215 extend at oblique angles to each other.

[0096] As further shown in Figures 2A to 2D, the rewinding system 200 further comprises a support member 202 positioned opposite the retaining surface 211 of the retaining member 210. The support surface 202 is configured to support the tip LE of the tire part 9 in the pickup position when the tip LE is engaged by the retaining member 210. In more detail, the support member 202 is configured to prevent the claw 215 from pushing the tip LE of the tire part away.

[0097] Here, a method for rewinding the stock reel 6 using the rewinding system 200 according to the present invention is described with reference to Figures 2A to 2D, Figure 3, and Figures 4A to 4G.

[0098] As shown in Figures 2A and 3, the retaining member 210 is positioned at the pickup location. Each tip LE of the tire component 9 is supplied between the retaining member 210 and the support member 202 until the presence of the tip LE is detected by the respective tip sensor 212. In detail, the liner reel 207 winds up the liner 90 and, as a result, rotates to drive the stock reel 6 around the stock reel axis A.

[0099] Each outer portion of the tire component is detected using a lateral sensor 213. Thus, the retaining surfaces 211 are shifted relative to each other in the lateral direction L in response to the sensor signal from the lateral sensor 213. As shown in Figure 4A, the tire component 9 is supported by a support member 202. In detail, the first surface 91 is adjacent to the support member 202. The retaining surfaces 211 are spaced apart from the second surface 92 of the tire component 9.

[0100] As shown in Figure 4B, the base drive unit 216 is operated to move the base 216 toward the tire component 9. In detail, the retaining surface 211 moves toward the second surface 92 of the tire component 9.

[0101] As shown in Figure 4C, the claw drive unit 217 operates to drive the claw 215 into the tire component 9 through the second surface 92, where the tire component 9 is held by the retaining member 210.

[0102] As shown in Figure 4D, the base drive unit 216 is operated to move the base 216 away from the support member 202. As a result, the tire component 9 is lifted away from the support member 202.

[0103] As shown in Figure 2B, the holding member 210 is moved to an intermediate position along the guide path S by the endless drive device 203.

[0104] As shown in Figure 2C, the retaining member 210 is moved to a released position above the support surface 281 of the output conveyor 208. The retaining member 210 moves along the support plane P so that a portion of the tire component 9 sufficient to be held by the output conveyor 208 by friction is guided onto the support surface 281. The retaining member 210 may be positioned at a distance from the support surface 281 or to hold the tip LE on the support surface 281. As can be further observed, the tire component 9 is guided around the loop wheel 282.

[0105] As further shown in Figure 4E, the base drive unit 216 is actuated to move the claw base 214 toward the support surface 281. The first side 91 of the tire component 9 is adjacent to the support surface 281.

[0106] As shown in Figure 4F, the claw drive mechanism operates to retract the claws 215 from the tire component 9. In detail, the claws 215 are retracted into their respective recessed positions. At this point, the tire component 9 is released from the retaining surface 211.

[0107] As shown in Figure 4G, the base drive unit 216 is acting to move the claw base 214 away from the tire component 9. The retaining surface 211 and the second surface 92 of the tire component 9 are separated.

[0108] As shown in Figure 2D, the tire parts 9 are transported in the transport direction T by the output conveyor 208. The holding member 210 is moved to the idle position. The holding member 210 may be returned to the pickup position for picking up the leading edge LE of the subsequent tire parts 9, for example, to switch to a new batch or new cycle of the method. Preferably, the holding member 210 is returned to the pickup position along the guide path S. In other words, the endless drive unit 203 is reversed or driven in the opposite direction.

[0109] Alternatively, any unused or wasted length of the tire component 9 may be transferred or fed back toward the reel station 260. This may be useful for cleaning the output conveyor 208 before switching to a new batch or new cycle of the method. In detail, the retaining member 210 may be positioned above the tire component 9 in a release position, either at or near the tip LE of the tire component 9. The tip LE is then engaged in a manner similar to that described above. The retaining member 210 is then returned from the release position to the pickup position, where the tip is returned to the stock reel 6. Preferably, the stock reel 6 rotates while returning the tip LE from the release position to the pickup position in order to wind the tire component 9 around the stock reel 6.

[0110] In summary, the present invention relates to a rewinding system for unwinding tire components from a stock reel and outputting the tire components in a transport direction, the rewinding system comprising a reel station, an output conveyor, and a transport device, wherein the output conveyor extends at least partially above the reel station, and the transport device comprises a holding surface for holding the tire components in a release manner along a guide path between a pickup position for picking up the tire components from the reel station and a release position for placing the tire components on the output conveyor, wherein the holding surface faces the output conveyor in the release position, and the holding surface is offset between the release position and the pickup position by an offset angle of at least 90 degrees with respect to a reversal axis parallel to the conveyor and perpendicular to the transport direction.

[0111] It should be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of a preferred embodiment and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. From the above description, many variations that should be further covered by the scope of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 6 Stock Reels 61 Circumferential surface 9 Tire parts 90 Raina 91 First surface 92 Second surface 100 Rewind System 101 Transfer Devices 110 Retaining member 111 Holding surface 112 Holder 113 Holding Element 102 Fixing member 103 Arm 104 Pressing member 140 Pressure rollers 141 Pressing actuator 160 Reel Station 161 Guide Roll 107 Liner Reel 108 Output Conveyor 181 Support surface 182 Loop Wheel 190 sensors 191 Control Unit 192 Lateral drive device 200 Rewind System 201 Transfer Devices 202 Support Member 220 Opposing surface 203 Endless drive unit 231 Endless drive element 232 sprocket 210 Retaining member 211 Holding surface 212 First Recovery 213 Lateral sensor 214 Nail base 215 Nails 216 Base drive unit 217 Claw drive device 218 Lateral drive device 260 Reel Station 261 Guide Roll 207 Liner Reel 208 Output Conveyor 281 Support surface 282 Loop Wheel 300 alternative rewind systems 301 Wrinkle-resistant roll 302 Wrinkle prevention drive mechanism 400 Alternative Rewind Systems 401 Transfer Devices 412 Advanced Sensor 402 Fixing member 420 Fixed Roll 421 Fixed drive unit A Stock Reel Shaft B Arm axis D Holding axis H Offset angle L (horizontal direction) P support plane R Roller Axis S guidance path T Conveying direction W winding direction LE Advanced Sensor

Claims

1. A rewinding system for unwinding tire components from a stock reel and outputting the tire components in the transport direction, The rewinding system comprises a reel station configured to receive the stock reel, an output conveyor for transporting the tire parts in the transport direction, and a transport device for transporting the leading edge of the tire parts from the reel station to the output conveyor. The output conveyor includes a support surface that extends at least partially above the reel station and extends within a support plane parallel to the conveying direction, The support surface is configured to receive the tire component from the transfer device and to support the tire component on the first side of the support plane, The transfer device includes a holding member, The retaining member has a retaining surface for releasably holding the tip of the tire component to the retaining member from only one side. The holding member is movable along a guide path between a pickup position on the second side of the support plane opposite to the first side of the support plane for picking up the tip of the tire part from the reel station, and a release position on the output conveyor on the first side of the support plane for positioning the tip of the tire part on the support surface of the output conveyor while holding the tip of the tire part with the holding member. In the release position, the retaining surface faces the support plane on the first side of the support plane, and the retaining surface is offset between the release position and the pickup position by an offset angle of at least 90 degrees around a reversal axis parallel to the support plane and perpendicular to the transport direction. Rewind system.

2. The retaining member comprises a retaining body that defines the retaining surface, and one or more retaining elements for holding the tip of the tire part to the retaining body at the retaining surface. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

3. The retaining member is movable along the guide path to an intermediate position between the pickup position and the release position, and at the intermediate position, the retaining surface faces outward from the support surface on the second side of the support plane. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

4. The rewinding system further comprises the stock reel in the reel station, the stock reel being rotatable about the stock reel axis, and the retaining surface of the retaining member facing outward from the stock reel axis when the retaining member is in the pickup position, and facing towards the stock reel axis when the retaining member is in the release position. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

5. The holding member comprises one or more vacuum holding elements for picking up and / or holding the tip by suction, The rewinding system according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned guidance path is a circular path or a substantially circular path. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

7. The transfer device comprises an arm that is rotatable about an arm axis between the pickup position and the release position, and the holding member is carried by the arm, and from the arm axis They are separated. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

8. The arm axis is parallel to the holding surface. The rewinding system according to claim 7.

9. The arm axis is the reversal axis. The rewinding system according to claim 7.

10. The retaining surface is offset with respect to the arm axis in an offset direction perpendicular to the retaining surface. The rewinding system according to claim 7.

11. The holding member is rotatable relative to the arm about a holding axis that is parallel to the arm axis and spaced apart from the arm axis. The rewinding system according to claim 7.

12. The transfer device further comprises a pressing member for pressing down the tip of the tire component on the support surface of the output conveyor when the transfer device releases the tip, and the pressing member is carried by the arm between the pickup position and the release position. The rewinding system according to claim 7.

13. The pressing member comprises a pressing roller that is rotatable around the roller axis. The rewinding system according to claim 12.

14. The roller shaft is parallel to the holding surface. The rewinding system according to claim 13.

15. The pressing member includes a pressing drive device for moving the pressing roller in a pressing direction perpendicular to the roller axis. The rewinding system according to claim 13.

16. The transfer device further comprises a fixing member that is movable between a fixed position for fixing the tip to the holding member and an unfixed position for releasing the tip from the holding member, wherein the fixing member is carried by the arm. The rewinding system according to claim 7.

17. The transfer device further comprises a fixing member that is movable between a fixed position for fixing the tip to the holding member and an unfixed position for releasing the tip from the holding member. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

18. The fixing member is supported separately from the transfer device in order to press the tire component against the holding surface of the holding member. The rewinding system according to claim 17.

19. The fixing member includes a fixing roll, a brush roller, or a foam roller. The rewinding system according to claim 17.

20. The transfer device includes an endless drive device for driving the holding member along the guide path between the pickup position and the release position. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

21. The induction path extends parallel to the support plane and spaced apart from the support plane at or near the release position, The rewinding system according to claim 20.

22. The induction path extends within the induction plane, and the endless drive device comprises two endless drive elements that extend parallel to the induction plane and are spaced apart from each other in a lateral direction perpendicular to the induction plane. The rewinding system according to claim 20.

23. The endless drive element is a belt or a chain. The rewinding system according to claim 22.

24. The rewinding system further comprises a support member positioned on the opposite side of the holding surface at the pickup position to support the tip of the tire component relative to the holding surface. The rewinding system according to claim 20.

25. The retaining member comprises at least two retractable claws, and the retractable claws are movable between a retracted position in which the claws are recessed relative to the retaining surface and a gripping position in which the claws protrude from the retaining surface to hold the tire component to the retaining surface. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

26. The at least two claws each extend in their respective claw directions, either traversing the retaining surface or perpendicular to the retaining surface, and the claw direction of the first claw of the at least two claws and the claw direction of the second claw of the at least two claws extend at an inclination relative to each other. The rewinding system according to claim 25.

27. The transfer device includes at least one tip sensor for detecting the presence of the tip of the tire component in the holding member. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

28. The guidance path extends within the guidance plane, and the transport device has two holding surfaces for holding two tire components, the two holding surfaces being spaced laterally apart perpendicular to the guidance plane. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

29. The holding surfaces are movable relative to each other in the lateral direction. The rewinding system according to claim 28.

30. The holding surface is movable separately in the lateral direction. The rewinding system according to claim 29.

31. The transfer device comprises at least one lateral drive device for moving the holding surface in the lateral direction. The rewinding system according to claim 29.

32. The holding member comprises two lateral sensors for detecting one outer portion of each of the two tire components. The rewinding system according to claim 28.

33. The rewinding system further comprises a wrinkle-preventing roll and a wrinkle-preventing drive device for pressing the wrinkle-preventing roll against the tire component between the pickup position and the stock reel. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

34. The reel station comprises one or more guide rolls for guiding the leading edge of the tire component toward the pickup position, and the wrinkle-preventing roll is configured to cooperate with one of the one or more guide rolls. The rewinding system according to claim 33.

35. The rewinding system is provided with a sensor for detecting a parameter indicating the lateral position of the tire part at its tip in a lateral direction parallel to the support plane, before the transfer of the tip to the output conveyor. The rewinding system according to claim 1.

36. The sensor is configured to detect the parameter at a position upstream of the pickup position. The rewinding system according to claim 35.

37. The rewinding system further comprises a lateral drive device for generating relative displacement between the output conveyor and at least a portion of the reel station in the lateral direction, a control unit operably connected to the sensor, and the lateral drive device for controlling the lateral drive device in response to a signal received from the sensor. The rewinding system according to claim 35.

38. The lateral drive device is configured to move at least a portion of the reel station in the lateral direction. The rewinding system according to claim 37.

39. A method for unwinding a tire component from a stock reel and outputting the tire component in the transport direction, using the unwinding system described in claim 1, - A step of using the transfer device to pick up the tip of the tire component coming from the stock reel at the pickup position in the reel station, - A step of guiding the tip along the guide path from the pickup position to the release position while holding the tip on the holding surface, - The process includes the step of releasing the tip of the tire component from the holding surface, thereby transferring the tip to the support surface of the output conveyor in the released position, method.

40. The method described above is - Further including the step of returning the tip of the tire component from the release position on the output conveyor to the pickup position on the reel station, The method according to claim 39.

41. The method described above is - The step of providing a wrinkle-preventing roll to the reel station, - Further including the step of pressing the wrinkle-preventing roll against the tire component between the pickup position and the stock reel when the tire component is unwound onto the stock reel in a winding direction opposite to the transport direction, The method according to claim 40.

42. The transfer device further comprises a pressing member for pressing down the tip of the tire component on the support surface of the output conveyor, and the method further includes the step of pressing down the tire component on the support surface of the output conveyor with the pressing member when the transfer device releases the tire component. The method according to claim 39.

43. The method described above is - Before the transfer of the tip to the output conveyor, a step of detecting a parameter indicating the lateral position of the tire part at the tip in a lateral direction parallel to the support plane, - Further includes the step of correcting the lateral position of the tire component at the tip based on the parameters, The method according to claim 39.

44. The transfer device further comprises at least one tip sensor for detecting the presence of the tip of the tire component on the holding surface, and before picking up the tip of the tire component, - The step of winding the tire component back toward the holding surface, - Includes the step of detecting the presence of the tip on the holding surface using at least one of the tip sensors, The step of picking up the tip of the tire component is performed in response to the sensor signal of the at least one tip sensor. The method according to claim 39.

45. The guidance path extends within the guidance plane, the transfer device comprises two holding surfaces for holding two tire parts, the two holding surfaces are movable relative to each other in a lateral direction perpendicular to the guidance plane, the holding member further comprises two lateral sensors for detecting the outer portion of each tire part, and before picking up the leading edge of the tire part, the method - A step of detecting each of the outer parts of the tire component using the two lateral sensors, - The process includes the step of moving the two retaining surfaces relative to each other in response to the signals from each of the lateral sensors in order to position the retaining surfaces relative to the tire component, The method according to claim 39.

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