Process and apparatus for constraining a functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels

Abstract

A process and apparatus for constraining a functional insert (100) to a tyre (200) for vehicle wheels provide for positioning the functional insert (100) so that its central axis (B) is perpendicular to a radially inner surface (201) of said tyre (200), arranging a presser (3) and applying, by means of said presser (3), a first localised pressure on a first portion (P1) of the exposed surface (102b), located at the internal zone (101a) of the functional insert (100), and a second localised pressure on a second portion (P2) of the exposed surface (102b) of the functional insert (100), translating, during the application of the second pressure, at least part of the presser (3) transversally away from the central axis (B) and through the peripheral zone (101b) of the exposed surface (102b).

Description

[0001] PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR CONSTRAINING A

[0002] FUNCTIONAL INSERT TO A TYRE FOR VEHICLE WHEELS

[0003] The present invention relates to a process for constraining a functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels.

[0004] The invention further relates to an apparatus for constraining a functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels.

[0005] A tyre for vehicle wheels typically has a substantially toroidal structure concentric with respect to a rotation axis of the tyre itself during operation, and has a substantially concave inner surface, delimiting an inner cavity which, in operating conditions, is internally closed by a mounting rim. On the outer surface of the tyre, a tread band may be identified, integrated into a crown portion, and a pair of sidewalls which extend radially from respective axially opposite edges of the tread band towards respective beads adapted to engage with the mounting rim.

[0006] The terms "radial" and "axial" and the expressions "radially inner / outer" and "axially inner / outer" are used referring to the radial direction and the axial direction of the tyre, i.e. to a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the tyre and a direction parallel to the rotation axis thereof, respectively. A radial plane of the tyre contains the rotation axis thereof.

[0007] The terms "circumferential" and "circumferentially" are instead used to refer to the annular development of the tyre, identifying with this expression the development assumed by the tyre along the rolling direction in operative conditions.

[0008] A "functional insert" is any insert capable of performing an active or passive function within the tyre, be it a mere housing function or an active sensing function; examples of functional inserts may be defined by a sound-absorbing element, a sensor incorporated into an elastomeric housing or, in some cases, the elastomeric housing alone.

[0009] In this text, the term "transversal" is used to identify a direction orthogonal to the central axis of the functional insert.

[0010] On some types of tyres it is known to incorporate functional inserts, typically applied against the radially inner surface after vulcanisation, for example to reduce noise during rolling or to monitor in real time the operating conditions of the tyre and track the temporal evolution of parameters representative of such operation.

[0011] In particular, functional inserts are known which are represented by sensing devices fixed to the radially inner surface of a tyre at the crown portion, to detect one or more physical quantities related to the functioning of the tyre, such as for example temperature and internal pressure, or more recently parameters which, if processed, may actively assist the driver in driving the vehicle.

[0012] For example, document WO2018 / 065846A1 describes a functional insert having a base formed from elastomeric material to which a module containing the electronic unit is firmly attached. An attachment surface of the base, intended to be bonded to the inner surface of the tyre, is coated with a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0013] The application of such devices may be entrusted to manual interventions by an installer using suitable equipment, for example of the type described in WO2022 / 75973A1.

[0014] There are also known solutions for the automated installation of functional inserts in an industrial production line. For example, document WO2021 / 35990A1 describes a plant for the application of sensors within tyres. The sensor is applied in an application station by means of a manipulator in the form of a robotic arm, which has a gripping mechanism and a compacting mechanism at an operating end thereof. The gripping mechanism comprises circumferentially distributed jaws which are movable by the action of a control element to pick up the sensor from a feed tray and place it inside the tyre. The compaction mechanism further comprises pressure rollers arranged around the jaws and movable on command of the manipulator to implement the adhesion of the sensor previously positioned in the tyre by means of the gripping mechanism.

[0015] The Applicant observed that in order to obtain good adhesion of the sensor or other functional insert against the radially inner surface of the tyre, it is advisable to reduce to a minimum the quantity of air that remains trapped between the attachment surface of the insert and the radially inner surface of the tyre during the application thereof.

[0016] In particular, the Applicant has noted that the use of pressure devices acting only in a radial direction with respect to the tyre, for example provided with simple compression rollers as described in WO2021 / 35990A1, may allow the retention of some air bubbles and lead to non-homogeneous adhesion of the functional insert within the tyre which, due to the stresses to which it is subjected during driving, may lead to significant safety and reliability problems.

[0017] The Applicant realised that in the search for solutions that would allow for improved automation in production lines by achieving stable and repeatable positioning, it was necessary to use devices capable of carrying out different movements, such as to impart a progressive and homogeneous action to the functional insert which would optimise the fixing and reduce the overall size of the pressure devices themselves as much as possible, so as to allow the movement thereof by robotic arms or other transfer units, to the full advantage of the automation of the process.

[0018] Finally, the Applicant found that by successively and progressively applying two different pressures, a first one at an internal zone of the functional insert and a second one oriented away from the aforementioned internal zone towards the peripheral zone of the same, the evacuation of the air trapped between the attachment surface of the insert and the radially inner surface of the tyre is facilitated, making the positioning of the functional insert itself stable.

[0019] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a process for constraining a functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels.

[0020] Preferably, provision is made to arrange a moulded and vulcanised tyre having a radially inner surface and a radially outer surface.

[0021] Preferably, provision is made to arrange the functional insert.

[0022] Preferably, the functional insert extends transversely, with reference to a central axis thereof, from an internal zone to a peripheral zone.

[0023] Preferably, the functional insert has an attachment surface and an exposed surface directed opposite with respect to the attachment surface.

[0024] Preferable, the process provides for positioning said functional insert on said radially inner surface such that said central axis has an orientation perpendicular to said radially inner surface. Preferably, provision is made to arrange a presser.

[0025] Preferably, the process provides for applying, by means of said presser, a first localised pressure and a second localised pressure.

[0026] The first localised pressure is preferably applied on a first portion of the exposed surface, located at the internal zone to promote the adhesion of the attachment surface of the functional insert to the radially inner surface of the tyre.

[0027] Preferably, provision is made to move at least part of said presser, during the application of said first pressure, around the central axis, promoting the adhesion of the internal zone of the attachment surface to the radially inner surface of the tyre.

[0028] The second localised pressure is preferably applied on a second portion of the exposed surface of the functional insert.

[0029] Preferably, provision is further made to translate, during the application of said second pressure, at least part of said presser transversely away from the central axis and through the peripheral zone of the exposed surface, promoting the adhesion of the peripheral zone of the attachment surface to the radially inner surface of the tyre.

[0030] The Applicant believes that, in the present invention, the application of two thrusts / pressures on the exposed surface of the functional insert, one localised on the internal zone and one "translating" transversely to the central axis crossing the peripheral zone, allows the air trapped between the functional insert and the tyre to be guided step by step, maximising its extraction and, therefore, the seal of the insert.

[0031] In a further aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus for constraining the functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels. Preferably, the apparatus comprises a presser provided with its own operating axis and a movement group.

[0032] Preferably, the movement group is configured for positioning the presser so that said operating axis has an orientation perpendicular to said radially inner surface and parallel to said central axis of the functional insert.

[0033] Preferably, the movement group is configured for pressing at least a part of the presser along the operating axis and on a first portion of the exposed surface, located at the internal zone of the functional insert.

[0034] Preferably, the movement group is configured for moving said at least a part of the presser, around the operating axis promoting the adhesion of the internal zone of the attachment surface to the radially inner surface of the tyre.

[0035] Preferably, the movement group is further configured for pressing at least a part of said presser along said operating axis onto a second portion of the exposed surface of the functional insert.

[0036] Preferably, the movement group is configured for translating said at least one part of the presser transversely away from the operating axis and through the peripheral zone, promoting the adhesion of the peripheral zone of the attachment surface to the radially inner surface of the tyre.

[0037] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a rolling station for constraining a functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels.

[0038] Preferably, a structure for supporting the tyre is provided.

[0039] Preferably, an apparatus according to the preceding aspect is provided. The Applicant believes that the solution adopted according to the invention solves the drawbacks illustrated above by obtaining repeatable positionings with stable adhesion of the functional insert on the radially inner surface of the tyre without increasing the overall dimensions of the pressure devices, thus also facilitating the automation of the process itself.

[0040] According to each of the different aspects, the invention further comprises one or more of the following preferential features.

[0041] Preferably, the internal zone of the functional insert comprises a central area and an annular band surrounding said central area.

[0042] Preferably, furthermore, the functional insert comprises a housing at the internal zone and a flexible membrane extending away from the central axis and defining said attachment surface and said exposed surface.

[0043] Preferably, the attachment surface of the functional insert is made adhesive.

[0044] Preferably, said flexible membrane has at least one flat, face made adhesive corresponding to said attachment surface.

[0045] Preferably, at the internal zone, said flexible membrane defines a reception housing.

[0046] Preferably, the actions of applying the second pressure and transversally translating at least part of the presser are performed recursively for different angular positions of the presser, evaluated with reference to the central axis of the functional insert.

[0047] The Applicant believes that in this way, the process is more precise and reliable, without requiring the use of complex pressure devices.

[0048] Preferably, downstream of transversely translating the presser away from the central axis, provision is made to interrupt or reduce said operation of the second pressure.

[0049] Preferably, provision is also made to rotate the presser around the central axis by a predetermined angle.

[0050] To this end, provision is preferably made to press and translate transversely said at least one part of the presser at a first angular position.

[0051] Preferably, provision is made to interrupt or reduce the pressure along said operating axis upon reaching said second transverse position by said at least one part of the presser.

[0052] Preferably, provision is made to rotate the presser around the operating axis by a predetermined angle in order to bring it into a second angular position.

[0053] Preferably, provision is made to press and translate said at least one part of the presser again at said second angular position.

[0054] Preferably, these steps are performed by means of the movement group.

[0055] Preferably, the movement group is configured for pressing and transversely translating said at least one part of the presser at a first angular position.

[0056] Preferably, the movement group is configured for interrupting or reducing the pressure along said operating axis upon reaching said second transverse position by said at least one part of the presser.

[0057] Preferably, the movement group is configured for rotating the presser around the operating axis by a predetermined angle in order to bring it into a second angular position.

[0058] Preferably, the movement group is configured for pressing and translating again said at least one part of the presser at said second angular position.

[0059] Preferably, the presser comprises at least a first presser element and at least a second presser element.

[0060] The Applicant believes that this allows both movements to be optimised, to the benefit of the reliability and repeatability of the process.

[0061] Preferably, the first localised pressure is performed by means of the first presser element.

[0062] Preferably, moving at least part of said presser involves moving the first presser element.

[0063] Preferably, the first presser element is configured for acting on the annular band of the internal zone.

[0064] Preferably, the first portion is placed at the annular band of the internal zone.

[0065] Preferably, the second localised pressure is performed by means of the second presser element.

[0066] Preferably, transversally moving at least part of said presser element away from the central axis involves moving said second presser element transversally to the central axis.

[0067] Preferably, the second pressure is applied starting from the annular band and then translated in the direction of and through the peripheral zone.

[0068] Preferably, the presser comprises a plurality of second presser elements angularly spaced around said central axis and movable close to and away from said central axis in order to press the functional insert on the radially inner surface of the tyre along a plurality of divergent transverse directions.

[0069] Preferably, each second presser element comprises at least one respective roller member. Preferably, therefore, each roller member moves orthogonally to the central axis.

[0070] Preferably, during the application of said first and / or said second pressure, provision is made for radially retaining the tyre at said radially outer surface.

[0071] Preferably, radially retaining the tyre comprises positioning an abutment element at an angular position misaligned with said central axis of the functional insert.

[0072] The Applicant believes that this facilitates the execution of the positioning and final fixing of the functional insert within the same station, reducing the stresses on the actuation groups.

[0073] From a structural point of view, preferably the movement group is configured for translating said at least one part of the presser transversely, continuing to press said part of the presser along said operating axis.

[0074] Preferably, the movement group is configured for pressing said at least one part of the presser on the second portion and translating it transversely in a recursive manner for different angular positions, with reference to the operating axis, of the presser.

[0075] Preferably, the movement group is configured for translating said at least one part of the presser transversely between a first transverse position, proximal to the operating axis, and a second transverse position, distal to the operating axis.

[0076] Preferably, the movement group is configured for pressing the first presser element onto the first portion of the exposed surface and the second presser element onto the second portion of the exposed surface.

[0077] Preferably, furthermore, the movement group is configured for moving the first presser element around the operating axis.

[0078] In this way, the Applicant believes it can maximise the expulsion of air from the annular band.

[0079] Preferably, the movement group is configured for moving the second presser element transversely away from the operating axis.

[0080] Preferably, the presser comprises a central body aligned with the operating axis.

[0081] Preferably, the central body comprises a reception cup for a central zone of the functional insert.

[0082] Preferably, the presser comprises at least one tooth protruding transversely, away from said central body.

[0083] Preferably, the tooth is provided with an active surface orthogonal to said operating axis.

[0084] Preferably, the first presser element comprises said at least one tooth.

[0085] Preferably, the presser comprises a plurality of first presser elements angularly spaced around said operating axis.

[0086] Preferably, the presser comprises a plurality of first presser elements, each defined by at least one tooth.

[0087] Preferably, with reference to the operating axis, said at least one tooth projects from said central body, defining with said central body a step for obtaining the contact with said first portion of the exposed surface of the insert.

[0088] In other words, the presser is shaped so that, as it moves along the operating axis, the tooth comes into contact with the exposed surface of the insert before the central body.

[0089] Preferably, the second presser element comprises at least one roller member movable towards and away from said operating axis.

[0090] The roller member defines a rolling contact with the exposed surface of the functional insert.

[0091] Preferably, the second presser element comprises a slider movable along the operating axis between a first position, or rest position, and a second position, or rolling position.

[0092] Preferably, the second presser element comprises an arm extending between a first end, hinged to said slider, and a second end rotatably connected to said roller member.

[0093] Preferably, said arm is configured for varying its inclination with respect to the operating axis in response to a pushing action generated by the movement group along said operating axis on said movable slider.

[0094] Preferably, the second presser element comprises at least one helical spring associated with said arm and configured for bringing it into a minimum inclination position at the end of said thrust action.

[0095] Preferably, the presser comprises a plurality of second presser elements that are angularly spaced from each other around the operating axis.

[0096] Preferably, the slider is configured for sliding along said central body, externally to it, between the first and second positions.

[0097] Preferably, the movement group comprises a robotic arm to the end of which the presser is connected.

[0098] Preferably, the robotic arm is connected to the presser by means of a rotary joint and is configured for rotating the presser about the operating axis and translating the presser along said operating axis.

[0099] Preferably, an abutment element configured for abutting the radially outer surface of the tyre and radially retaining the tyre is provided.

[0100] Preferably, an abutment element configured for abutting the radially outer surface of the tyre at an angular position misaligned with said operating axis is provided.

[0101] Preferably, provision is made for a plurality of support elements angularly spaced from each other and movable in mutual approach and away to define a centring device.

[0102] Preferably, provision is made for a plurality of abutment elements, angularly spaced from each other around the rotation axis "A" of the tyre and defining a centring device having a centring axis thereof.

[0103] Preferably, the abutment elements are radially movable towards to and away from each other between a distal position distal from the centring axis and a proximal position proximal to the centring axis.

[0104] Preferably, the support structure comprises a lifting device configured for lifting the tyre with respect to a support plane during the action of the apparatus.

[0105] Preferably, the support device comprises a plurality of horizontal plates selectively movable between a lowered position, in which they are coplanar or at a lower level with respect to said support plane, and a raised position, in which they are at a higher level with respect to said support plane to lift the tyre.

[0106] Preferably, the support structure comprises an actuation group configured for synchronously moving the lifting device and the abutment elements along the respective movement directions. This allows for precise lifting and centring.

[0107] Further features and advantages will become more apparent from the detailed description of preferred but non-exclusive embodiments of a process and related apparatus for constraining a functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels according to the present invention. Such description is given hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided only for illustrative and, therefore, non-limiting purposes, in which:

[0108] - Figure 1 shows a schematic overall view of a tyre treatment line comprising the apparatus according to the present invention;

[0109] - Figure 2 shows a schematic plan view of a rolling station comprising the apparatus according to the present invention;

[0110] - Figures 3-9 show with schematic sectional views successive steps of the process for constraining a functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels using the apparatus according to the present invention;

[0111] - Figures 10-11 show a schematic side view of the rolling station of Figure 2, in two different operating positions;

[0112] - Figures 12-13 schematically show a plan view and a side view of the functional insert of the type constrained by means of the apparatus of Figures 3-9.

[0113] With reference to the accompanying figures, reference numeral 1 indicates an apparatus for constraining a functional insert 100 to a tyre 200 for vehicle wheels according to the present invention. The present invention is aimed at fixing functional inserts 100 on the surface of the tyre, in particular on the radially inner surface thereof.

[0114] The tyre 200 in fact has a radially inner surface 201 and a radially outer surface 202 with reference to a rotation axis "A" thereof. The functional insert 100 has an attachment surface 102a, and an exposed surface 102b directed on the opposite side with respect to the attachment surface 102a.

[0115] The attachment surface 102a, in use, is constrained to the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0116] The functional insert 100 also has a central axis "B" thereof and extends transversely to said axis between an internal zone 101a and a peripheral zone 101b.

[0117] Preferably, the central axis "B" is transverse, more preferably orthogonal, to the attachment surface 102a.

[0118] Preferably, it should be noted that the internal zone 101a comprises a central area 103a and an annular band 103b surrounding said central area 103a.

[0119] Preferably, the functional insert 100 comprises a flexible membrane 104 having at least a flat face made adhesive corresponding to said attachment surface 102a.

[0120] The flexible membrane 104 preferably defines a main body of the insert and, more preferably, it is made of elastomeric material.

[0121] It should be noted that the flat face may be made adhesive by coating it with a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive or by spreading a quick glue of another nature (e.g. acrylic).

[0122] In the preferred embodiment, the functional insert 100 has sensing functionality and comprises a sensitive element 105.

[0123] Preferably, such sensitive element 105 is housed inside a reception housing 104a made in the flexible membrane 104.

[0124] In the illustrated embodiment, the reception housing 104a is located at the internal zone 101a, more preferably in the central area 103a thereof. Preferably, the sensitive element 105 has a prismatic, cylindrical or discoidal shape and is positioned coaxially with the central axis "B" of the functional insert 100.

[0125] The present invention, therefore, preferably relates to an apparatus and a method useful for permanently, and therefore not temporarily, constraining the functional insert.

[0126] It should be noted that, preferably but not necessarily, the apparatus 1 is configured for acting on a functional insert 100 already positioned on the radially inner surface of the tyre 200. Preferably, the functional insert 100 is positioned on the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0127] With reference to what is illustrated in Figure 1, the apparatus 1 is preferably placed along a treatment line 30, only partially illustrated as it is not very relevant for the purposes of the invention, operationally arranged downstream of a vulcanisation station where the previously built tyres 200 are subjected to a moulding and vulcanisation treatment which stabilises the geometric structure thereof and the functional interaction of the various components.

[0128] The moulded and vulcanised tyres 200, moved along the treatment line 30, individually reach a rolling station 31 where each of them is subjected to the action of the apparatus 1, which constrains the functional insert 100 on the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0129] Preferably, the tyres 200 which travel along the treatment line 30 and / or reach the rolling station 31 are each oriented with their own rotation axis "A" vertically arranged, with one of the sides 203 against one or more supports 35 defining a horizontal support plane P. In this regard, preferably the treatment line 30 comprises a (belt or roller) conveyor on which the tyres 200 lie in succession and in advancement.

[0130] The rolling station 31 comprises a support structure 32 for the tyre 200 and the apparatus 1 which is the subject of the present invention.

[0131] The apparatus 1 preferably comprises a presser 3 provided with an operating axis "C" thereof and a movement group 2 associated with the presser 3 and configured for moving it.

[0132] Preferably, the movement group 2 comprises a robotic arm 4 to the end of which the presser 3 is connected.

[0133] In the preferred embodiment, the robotic arm 4 is connected to the presser 3 by means of a rotary joint 5 and is configured for rotating the presser about the operating axis "C" and translating the presser 3 along said operating axis "C".

[0134] Preferably, the movement group 2 is configured for positioning the presser so that said operating axis "C" has an orientation perpendicular to said radially inner surface 201 and parallel to said central axis "B" of the functional insert 100.

[0135] The movement group 2 is therefore configured for positioning the presser 3 so that it is aligned with the functional insert 100 (preferably already positioned).

[0136] The movement group 2 is further configured for pressing at least one part of the presser 3 along the operating axis "C" and on a first portion Pl of the exposed surface 102b, placed at the internal zone 101a of the functional insert 100.

[0137] Preferably, the movement group provides for moving said at least one part of the presser 3, around the operating axis "C", promoting the adhesion of the internal zone 101a of the attachment surface 102a to the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0138] In other words, said at least one part of the presser 3 is moved by the movement group 2, more preferably by the robotic arm 4 by means of the rotary joint 5, in rotation or roto-translation around the operating axis "C" so as to press an annular or circular part of the internal zone 101a of the functional insert 100, promoting the evacuation of air between the functional insert 100 and the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0139] It should be noted that, preferably, the movement group 2 is configured for moving the presser 3 in rotation and counterrotation to maximise the effectiveness of its action.

[0140] The movement group 2 is therefore configured for pressing at least a part of said presser 3 along said operating axis "C" onto a second portion P2 of the exposed surface 102b of the functional insert 100.

[0141] Preferably, the second portion P2 is located at the annular band 103b or the peripheral portion 101b or, alternatively, astride the two.

[0142] Such movement group 2 is further configured for translating the at least one part of the presser 3 transversely away from the operating axis "C" and through the peripheral zone 101b of the exposed surface 102b, promoting the adhesion of the peripheral zone 101b of the attachment surface 102a to the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0143] Preferably, the movement group 2 is configured for translating said at least one part of the presser 3 transversely between a first transverse position, proximal to the operating axis "C", and a second transverse position, distal to the operating axis "C". It should be noted that preferably, the movement group 2 is configured for translating said at least one part of the presser 3 transversely, continuing to press said part of the presser 3 along said operating axis "C".

[0144] More preferably, the movement group is configured for pressing said at least one part of the presser 3 onto the second portion P2 and translating it transversely in a recursive manner for different angular positions of the presser 3, where "angular positions" identifies the orientation of the presser 3 around the operating axis "C" (i.e. the central axis "B" of the functional insert 100).

[0145] Preferably, therefore, with reference to a first angular position, the movement group 2 is configured for:

[0146] - interrupting or reducing the pressure along said operating axis "C" upon reaching said second transverse position by said at least one part of the presser "3";

[0147] - rotating the presser 3 around the operating axis "C" by a predetermined angle in order to bring it into a second angular position;

[0148] - pressing said at least one part of the presser 3 along said operating axis "C" on the second portion P2 at the second angular position and again translating said at least one part of the presser 3 away from the operating axis "C".

[0149] In this regard, between reaching the second transverse position at the first angular position and applying pressure at the second angular position, the movement group 2 is configured for moving the at least one part of the presser 3 from the second to the first transverse position.

[0150] It should be noted that, said at least one part of the presser 3 used to act on the first portion Pl and on the second portion P2 of the functional insert 100 may be the same part, used in two different steps and ways, or a distinct part.

[0151] It should also be noted that the first portion Pl and the second portion P2 may be at least partially overlapping or superimposable.

[0152] In the preferred embodiment, the presser 3 comprises at least a first presser element 6 and at least a second presser element 7 that are distinct from each other.

[0153] In this regard, the movement group 2 is associated with the first presser element 6 and the second presser element 7. The movement group 2 is further configured for pressing the first presser element 6 onto the first portion Pl and the second presser element 7 onto the second portion P2 of the exposed surface 102b.

[0154] Furthermore, the movement group 2 is configured for moving the first presser element 6 around the operating axis "C".

[0155] Preferably, the movement group 2 is configured for perform such movement around the operating axis "C" in an alternative manner, i.e. by rotating the presser 3 around the operating axis "C" first in one direction and then in the opposite direction (i.e. in rotation and counter-rotation).

[0156] Furthermore, the movement group 2 is configured for moving the second presser element 7 transversely away from the operating axis "C".

[0157] From a structural point of view, the presser 3 comprises a central body 8 aligned with the operating axis "C".

[0158] Preferably, the central body 8 comprises a reception cup 11 for a central zone of the functional insert 100. Preferably, the cup 11 has an opening that faces, in use, toward exposed surface 102b of the functional insert 100.

[0159] In this way, it is possible to accommodate therein a portion of the functional insert 100 projecting away from the radial surface of the tyre 200, or from the attachment surface of the functional insert 100 itself.

[0160] Preferably, the presser 3 further comprises at least one tooth 9 protruding transversely, away from said central body 8.

[0161] The tooth 9 preferably defines at least in part the first presser element 6.

[0162] The tooth 9 is preferably provided with an active surface 9a transverse, preferably orthogonal, to said operating axis "C".

[0163] It should be noted that preferably, with reference to the operating axis "C", said at least one tooth 9 projects from said central body 8, defining with said central body a step 10 in order to obtain the contact with said first portion Pl of the exposed surface 102b of the functional insert 100.

[0164] In the preferred embodiment, the presser 3 comprises a plurality of teeth 9 angularly spaced around the operating axis "C".

[0165] More preferably, said teeth 9 are equally spaced.

[0166] In the illustrated embodiment, the teeth 9 are four, spaced at 90° intervals, or with a 90° angle defined by two adjacent teeth. A preferred solution uses three teeth 9.

[0167] Alternatively, however, the number of teeth 9 may be different. Preferably, the movement group 2 is configured for rotating the presser 3 around the operating axis "C" while each tooth 9 is held under pressure on the exposed surface 102b of the functional insert 100.

[0168] More preferably, the width of the rotation angle of the presser 3 around the operating axis "C" is inversely proportional to the number of teeth 9.

[0169] The second presser element 7 instead comprises at least one roller member 12 movable towards and away from said operating axis "C".

[0170] The roller member 12 comprises in particular a roller or other element suitable for generating rolling contact with the exposed surface 102b of the functional insert 100.

[0171] The roller member 12 is preferably rotatable around its own pivot axis orthogonal to the direction of movement, i.e. translation, of the roller member 12 itself.

[0172] The roller member 12 is connected to the central body 8 of the presser 3 by means of an arm 13 extending between a first end 13a and a second end 13b rotatably connected to said roller member 12.

[0173] The movement group 2 is configured for translating the roller member 12 between the first and second transverse positions in response to a pushing action parallel to said operating axis "C" performed on the first end 13a of the arm 13.

[0174] To this end, preferably, the second presser element 7 comprises a slider 14 movable along the operating axis "C" between a first position, or rest position, and a second position, or rolling position.

[0175] The slider 14 is slidably associated with the central body 8 to slide along said central body 8 between the first and second positions in response to the pushing action of the movement group 2.

[0176] Preferably, the slider 14 is slidably associated with a transversely outer surface of the central body 8.

[0177] More preferably, the slider 14 is configured for moving with respect to it between the first and second positions in response to a thrust action imparted, along the operating axis "C", by the movement group 2; such thrust action being preferably greater than a predetermined threshold value below which the thrust action is discharged solely on the central body 8 and on the teeth 9 (i.e. on the first presser element 6).

[0178] The central body 8 and the slider 14 therefore have an elastically yielding coupling along the operating axis in order to allow the actuation of the second presser element 7, i.e. the roller member 12.

[0179] In this regard, the presence of an elastic member 16 is preferably provided, operatively interposed between the slider 14 and the central body 8 and configured for returning the slider 14 from the second position to the first position in the absence of said thrust action.

[0180] Such elastic member 16 has a rigidity such as to generate an action resistant to the thrust sufficient to allow the exercise of the first pressure by means of the first presser element 6. Preferably, the elastic member 16 is defined by a helical spring. More preferably, such a helical spring is coaxial to the operating axis "C" and is placed inside the central body 8 and an annular body 17 better described below.

[0181] In the preferred embodiment, the values of the aforementioned thrusts are between 20N and 200N.

[0182] The arm 13 is therefore hinged (by means of the first end 13a) to said slider 14 and configured for varying its inclination with respect to the operating axis "C" in response to said thrust action generated along said operating axis "C" on said movable slider 14. Preferably, at least one helical spring 15 is associated with the arm 13 and configured for returning it to a position of minimum inclination when said thrust action ceases (i.e. at the end of said thrust action).

[0183] More precisely, one or more helical springs 15 are operatively interposed between the central body 8 and the arm 13, preferably in proximity to the second end 13b.

[0184] In the preferred embodiment, two helical springs are associated with each arm 13.

[0185] Alternatively, said at least one helical spring 15 may for example be replaced by a circumferential ring (not illustrated) external to the arms 13 or by other equivalent elastic devices.

[0186] It should be noted that preferably, the presser 3 comprises a plurality of second presser elements 7 that are angularly spaced from each other around the operating axis "C".

[0187] Each second presser element 7 preferably comprises at least one roller member 12 associated with a respective arm 13.

[0188] In the preferred embodiment, the presser 3 comprises three second presser elements 7 interposed, angularly, between each pair of adjacent teeth 9.

[0189] Preferably, furthermore, the slider 14 is associated with said annular (or tubular) body 17 fitted around the central body 8 and rotatably connected to all the arms 13.

[0190] In the preferred embodiment, therefore, each arm 13 of a second presser element 7 is associated with a respective slider 14, in turn fixed to the annular body 17 to slide with it with respect to the central body 8.

[0191] Alternatively, however, the arms 13 of the different second presser elements 7 may share a single annular slider. The rolling station 31 further comprises a support structure 32 for the tyre 200 and an abutment element 33.

[0192] The abutment element 33 is preferably configured for abutting the radially outer surface 202 of the tyre 200, at an angular position misaligned with said operating axis "C".

[0193] Preferably, therefore, the abutment element 33 comprises a radial locking shoulder 33a which, in use, contacts the radially outer surface 202 of the tyre 200 in an angular position close to that of the functional insert 100, but misaligned from it.

[0194] In other words, the surface or contact line between the radial locking shoulder 33a and the radially outer surface 202 of the tyre is angularly offset from the operating axis "C", i.e. from the central axis "B" of the functional insert 100.

[0195] Preferably, such angular offset is between 5° and 45°.

[0196] In the preferred embodiment, the rolling station 31 comprises a plurality of abutment elements 33 that are angularly spaced from each other around the rotation axis "A" of the tyre 200 and defining a centring device having a centring axis thereof.

[0197] In the illustrated embodiment, the abutment elements 33 are four, but they may be in any number greater than three, or possibly even less in the case in which the locking shoulder has a curved shape capable of following the radially outer curvature of the tyre 200.

[0198] Preferably, the abutment elements 33 are radially movable towards to and away from each other between a distal position distal from the centring axis, i.e. from the rotation axis "A", and a proximal position proximal to the centring axis, i.e. to the rotation axis "A". It should be noted that the radial movement is concentric to avoid the displacement of the tyre 200. Preferably, the rolling station 31 comprises an actuation group 36 configured for moving the abutment elements 33 between the distal position and the proximal position, stopping the movement upon contact with the radially outer surface 202 of the tyre 200. In the preferred embodiment, each abutment element 33 comprises a bar with a substantially vertical axis shaped to abut the radially outer surface of the tyre 200.

[0199] It should be noted that, preferably, the rolling station 31 also comprises a support device 34 configured for lifting the tyre 200 with respect to the support plane P during the action of the apparatus 1.

[0200] The support device 34 comprises at least one horizontal plate 34a selectively movable between a lowered position, in which it is coplanar or at a lower level with respect to said support plane P, and a raised position, in which it is at a higher level with respect to said support plane P to lift the tyre 200.

[0201] Preferably, the support device 34 comprises a plurality of plates 34a each preferably associated with a respective abutment element 33.

[0202] In this regard, the actuation group 36 is preferably configured for synchronously moving the lifting device 34 (preferably the plates 34a) and the abutment elements 33 along their respective movement directions, allowing precise lifting and centring.

[0203] In use, the apparatus 1 as described above allows a process for constraining a functional insert to a tyre for vehicle wheels to implement according to the present invention.

[0204] It should be noted that in the description of the process, the same reference numerals used thus far in the description of the apparatus will be used for the same technical features. In any case, it is noted that all the features of the apparatus, even if not explicitly identified or used in the following description of the process, are to be considered applicable to it. The process involves arranging the (moulded and vulcanised) tyre 200 and the functional insert 100.

[0205] Preferably, the tyre 200 is positioned with a sidewall 203 thereof resting on a substantially horizontal surface (defined by the plates 34a or the supports 35).

[0206] More preferably, the tyre 200 is centred with respect to a reference, aligning the rotation axis "A" with respect to the centring axis.

[0207] This is preferably, but not necessarily, done by means of the centring device described above.

[0208] The functional insert 100 is positioned so that its central axis "B" has a perpendicular orientation to said radially inner surface 201. The functional insert 100 is therefore preferably positioned by fixing it to the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0209] Preferably, arranging and positioning the functional insert 100 involves attaching at least part of the area of the attachment surface 102a to the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0210] In the preferred embodiment, such positioning is performed by preferably pushing the internal zone 101a, more preferably the central area 103a, of the functional insert 100 onto the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200 and, at the same time, pushing with a contrasting member (not illustrated) onto the radially outer surface 202 of the tyre 200, along the central axis "B" of the functional insert 100 so as to press said internal zone 101a and the radially inner surface 201 against each other with mutually equal and opposite forces. With the central axis "B" of the functional insert 100 aligned with the operating axis "C" of the presser 2, a first localised pressure is exerted, by means of the presser 3, on the first portion Pl of the exposed surface 102b, located at the internal zone 101a.

[0211] This is to promote adhesion of the attachment surface 102a of the functional insert 100 to the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0212] Preferably, the first portion Pl is placed at the annular band 103a.

[0213] Preferably, moreover, provision is made to move at least part of the presser 3, during the application of the first pressure, around the central axis "B" of the functional insert 100, promoting the adhesion of the internal zone 101a of the attachment surface 102a to the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0214] It should be noted that the rotation of said part of the presser 3 is performed around the operating axis "C" of the presser 3, as described above.

[0215] In the preferred embodiment, the part of the presser 3 with which the first pressure is applied is the first presser element 6, for a detailed description of which reference shall be made to the previous paragraphs.

[0216] The process also preferably provides for applying, by means of said presser 3, a second pressure localised on the second portion P2 of the exposed surface 102b of the functional insert 100.

[0217] The second portion P2 is preferably located at the annular band 103b or the peripheral zone 101b or, alternatively, astride the two.

[0218] Provision is then made for translating, during the application of said second pressure, at least part of the presser 3 transversely, away from the central axis "B" and across (transversely) the peripheral zone 101b, promoting the adhesion of the peripheral zone 101b of the attachment surface 102a to the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200.

[0219] The second pressure, therefore, is exerted starting from the annular band 103b in the direction of the peripheral zone 101b and through (transversely) the same.

[0220] Preferably, the part of the presser 3 with which the second pressure and the transverse translation are performed is the second presser element 7, for a detailed description of which reference shall be made to the previous paragraphs.

[0221] It should be noted that, preferably, the steps of applying the second pressure and transversally translating at least part of the presser 3 are performed recursively for different angular positions of the presser 3.

[0222] In other words, the presser 3 is pushed onto the second portion P2 and then at least partially translated transversely across the peripheral zone 101b for at least a first and a second angular position of the presser 3, with respect to the central axis "B" of the functional insert 100.

[0223] More preferably, therefore, downstream of transversely translating the presser 3 away from the central axis "B" of the functional insert 100, provision is made to interrupt or reduce said application of the second pressure and rotate the presser 3 around the central axis "B" by a predetermined angle.

[0224] To this end, preferably, the second presser element 7 comprises a plurality of roller members 12 angularly spaced around said central axis "B" and movable close to and away from said central axis "B" in order to press the functional insert 100 on the radially inner surface 201 of the tyre 200 along a plurality of divergent transverse directions.

[0225] Said roller members 12 are movable orthogonally to the central axis "B" and, preferably, in turn have a rolling axis orthogonal to the central axis "B" and parallel to the attachment surface 102a. Preferably, the number of angular positions in which it is provided to press on the second portion P2 and transversely translate the second presser element 7 (i.e. the second presser elements 7) is related to the number of roller members 12.

[0226] As the number of roller elements 12 increases, the method provides for reducing the number of angular positions assumed by the presser 3, thus reducing the cycle time.

[0227] In order to maximise the efficiency of the process, during the execution of said first and / or said second pressing, provision is made to radially retain the tyre 200 at its radially outer surface 202.

[0228] This is preferably done by means of the abutment element 33, for the structural details of which reference shall be made to the description given in the previous paragraphs.

[0229] Preferably, to radially retain the tyre 200, provision is made to position the abutment element 33 at an angular position misaligned from said central axis "B" of the functional insert 100, so as to facilitate the execution of the positioning and fixing by means of the presser 3 in the same operating station, i.e. without moving the tyre 200 along the operating line 30.

[0230] In the preferred embodiment, operationally upstream of the entry into action of the presser 3, the process involves centring the tyre 200 with respect to a reference axis, so as to align the reference axis with the rotation axis "A" of the tyre 200. This is preferably performed by means of the centring device and in order to obtain coherence between the reference system of the tyre 200 and that of the movement group 2 and the presser 3, or, in the preferred embodiments, of the robotic arm 4.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Process for constraining a functional insert (100) to a tyre (200) for vehicle wheels, comprising: arranging a moulded and vulcanised tyre (200) having a radially inner surface (201) and a radially outer surface (202); arranging said functional insert (100) extended transversely, with reference to a central axis (B) thereof, from an internal zone (101a) to a peripheral zone (101b) and having an attachment surface (102a) and an exposed surface (102b) directed opposite with respect to the attachment surface (102a); positioning said functional insert (100) on said radially inner surface (201) such that said central axis (B) has an orientation perpendicular to said radially inner surface (201); arranging a presser (3); applying, by means of said presser (3), a first pressure localised on a first portion (Pl) of the exposed surface (102b), placed at the internal zone (101a), in order to facilitate the adhesion of the attachment surface (102a) of the functional insert (100) to the radially inner surface (201) of the tyre (200); moving at least part of said presser (3), during the application of said first pressure, around the central axis (B), promoting the adhesion of the internal zone (101a) of the attachment surface (102a) to the radially inner surface (201) of the tyre (200); applying, by means of said presser (3), a second pressure localised on a second portion (P2) of the exposed surface (102b) of the functional insert (100); translating, during the application of said second pressure,at least part of said presser (3) transversely away from the central axis (B) and through the peripheral zone (101b) of the exposed surface (102b), promoting the adhesion of the peripheral zone (101b) of the attachment surface (102a) to the radially inner surface (201) of the tyre (200).

2. Process according to claim 1, wherein said actions of applying the second pressure and translating transversely at least part of the presser (3) are executed recursively for different angular positions, with reference to the central axis (B) of the functional insert (100).

3. Process according to claim 1 or 2, wherein downstream of translating transversely the presser (3) away from the central axis (B), provision is made for:- interrupting or reducing said application of the second pressure;- rotating the presser (3) around the central axis (B) by a predetermined angle.

4. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said presser (3) comprises at least one first presser element (6) and at least one second presser element (7).

5. Process according to claim 4, wherein the localised first pressure is applied by means of the first presser element (6) and wherein moving at least part of said presser (3) comprises moving the first presser element (6).

6. Process according to any one of the claims 4 or 5, wherein said localised second pressure is applied by means of the second presser element (7) and wherein translating transversely at least part of said presser (3) away from the central axis (B) comprises moving, transversely to the central axis (B), said second presser element (7).

7. Process according to any one of the claims from 4 to 6, wherein the presser (3) comprises a plurality of second presser elements (7) angularly spaced around said central axis (B) and movable close to and away from said central axis (B) in order to press the functional insert (100) on the radially inner surface (201) of the tyre (200) along a plurality of divergent transverse directions.

8. Process according to claim 6 or 7, wherein said second presser element (7) comprises at least one roller member (12) defining a rolling contact with the exposed surface (102b) of the functional insert (100).

9. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said internal zone (101a) of the functional insert (100) comprises a central area (103a) and an annular band (103b) surrounding said central area (103a) and wherein:- said first portion (Pl) is located at the annular band (103b) of the internal zone (101a);- said second pressure is applied starting from the annular band (103b) and then translated in the direction of and through the peripheral zone (101b).

10. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein during the application of said first and / or said second pressure, provision is made for radially retaining the tyre (200) at said radially outer surface (202).

11. Process according to claim 10, wherein radially retaining the tyre (200) comprises positioning an abutment element (33) at an angular position misaligned with said central axis (B) of the functional insert (100).

12. Process according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said functional insert (100) comprises a flexible membrane (104) having at least one flat face, made adhesive, corresponding to said attachment surface (102a).

13. Apparatus for constraining a functional insert (100) to a tyre (200) for vehicle wheels, wherein:- said tyre (200) has a radially inner surface (201) and a radially outer surface (202) with reference to a rotation axis (A) thereof,- said functional insert (100) extends transversely, with reference to a central axis (B) thereof, between an internal zone (101a) and a peripheral zone (101b) and has an attachment surface (102a) and an exposed surface (102b) directed opposite with respect to the attachment surface (102a); wherein said apparatus comprises:- a presser (3) provided with an operating axis (C) thereof;- a movement group (2) configured for: a) positioning the presser (3) such that said operating axis (C) has orientation perpendicular to said radially inner surface (201) and parallel to said central axis (B) of the functional insert (100); b) pressing at least one part of the presser (3) along the operating axis (C) and on a first portion (Pl) of the exposed surface (102b), placed at the internal zone (101a) of the functional insert (100); c) moving said at least one part of the presser (3), around the operating axis (C), promoting the adhesion of the internal zone (101a) of the attachment surface (102a) to the radially inner surface (201) of the tyre (200); d) pressing at least one part of said presser (3) along said operating axis (C) on a second portion (P2) of the exposed surface (102b) of the functional insert (100); e) translating said at least one part of the presser (3) transversely away from the operating axis (C) and through the peripheral zone (101b), promoting the adhesion of the peripheral zone (101b) of the attachment surface (102a) to the radially inner surface (201) of the tyre (200).

14. Apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the movement group (2) is configured for translating said at least one part of the presser (3) transversely, continuing to press said part of the presser (3) along said operating axis (C).

15. Apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, wherein saidmovement group (2) is configured for pressing said at least one part of the presser (3) on the second portion (P2) and translating said at least one part of the presser (3) transversely in a recursive manner for different angular positions, with reference to the operating axis (C), of the presser (3).

16. Apparatus according to any one of the claims from 13 to 15, wherein said movement group (2) is configured for translating said at least one part of the presser (3) transversely between a first transverse position, proximal to the operating axis (C), and a second transverse position, distal from the operating axis (C), and wherein the movement group (2) is configured for:- pressing and translating transversely said at least one part of the presser (3) at a first angular position;- interrupting or reducing the pressing along said operating axis (C) upon reaching said second transverse position by said at least one part of the presser (3);- rotating the presser (3) around the operating axis (C) by a predetermined angle in order to bring it into a second angular position;- further pressing and translating said at least one part of the presser (3) at said second angular position.

17. Apparatus according to any one of the claims from 13 to 16, wherein the presser (3) comprises at least one first presser element (6) and at least one second presser element (7) and wherein the movement group (2) is configured for pressing the first presser element (6) on the first portion (Pl) of the exposed surface (102b) and the second presser element (7) on thesecond portion (P2) of the exposed surface (102b).

18. Apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the movement group (2) is configured for moving the first presser element (6) around the operating axis (C) and for translating the second presser element (7) transversely away from the operating axis (C).

19. Apparatus according to claim 17 or 18, wherein said presser (3) comprises a central body (8) aligned with the operating axis (C) and at least one tooth (9) projecting transversely away from said central body (8) and provided with an active surface (9a) orthogonal to said operating axis (C); said first presser element (6) comprising said at least one tooth (9).

20. Apparatus according to claim 19, wherein said presser (3) comprises a plurality of first presser elements (6), each defined by at least one tooth (9).

21. Apparatus according to claim 20, wherein said first presser elements (6) are angularly spaced from each other around said operating axis (C).

22. Apparatus according to any one of the claims from 19 to 21, wherein, with reference to the operating axis (C), said at least one tooth (9) projects from said central body (8), defining with said central body (8) a step (10) for obtaining the contact with said first portion (Pl) of the exposed surface (102b) of the insert (100).

23. Apparatus according to any one of the claims from 19 to 22, wherein the central body (8) comprises a reception cup (11) for a central zone (103a) of the functional insert (100).

24. Apparatus according to any one of the claims from 17 to 23, wherein the second presser element (7) comprises at least one roller member (12) movable close to and away from said operating axis (C).

25. Apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the second presser element (7) comprises:- a slider (14) movable along the operating axis (C) between a first position, or rest position, and a second position, or rolling position;- an arm (13) extended between a first end (13a), pivoted to said slider (14), and a second end (13b) rotatably connected to said roller member (12), configured for varying the inclination thereof with respect to the operating axis (C) in response to a thrust action generated by the movement group (2) along said operating axis (C) on said slider (14);- at least one helical spring (15) associated with said arm (13) and configured for bringing it into a minimum inclination position at the end of said thrust action.

26. Apparatus according to claim 24 or 25, wherein the presser comprises a plurality of second presser elements (7) that are angularly spaced from each other around the operating axis (C).J . Apparatus according to any one of the claims from 13 to 26, wherein the movement group (2) comprises a robotic arm (4) at the end of which the presser (3) is connected by means of a rotary joint (5); said robotic arm (4) being configured for:- rotating the presser (3) around the operating axis (C);- translating the presser (3) along said operating axis (C).

28. Apparatus according to any one of the claims from 13 to 27, comprising at least one abutment element (33) configured for being abutted against the radially outer surface (202) of the tyre (200), at an angular position misaligned with said operating axis (C).

29. Rolling station for constraining a functional insert (100) to a tyre (200) for vehicle wheels, comprising:- a support structure (32) for the tyre 200;- an apparatus (1) according to any one of the claims from 13 to 28.

30. Rolling station according to claim 29, comprising a plurality of abutment elements (33) that are angularly spaced from each other around the rotation axis "A" of the tyre (200) and defining a centring device having a centring axis thereof.

31. Rolling station according to claim 30, wherein the abutment elements (33) are radially movable towards to and away from each other between a distal position, distal from the centring axis, and a proximal position, proximal to the centring axis.

32. Rolling station according to any one of the claims from 29 to 31, wherein the support structure (32) comprises a lifting device (34) configured for lifting the tyre (200) with respect to a support surface (P) during the action of the apparatus (1).

33. Rolling station according to claim 32, wherein the support structure (32) comprises an actuation group (36) configured for synchronously moving the lifting device (34) and the abutment elements (33) along the respective movement directions.

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