Method, applicator, use of an applicator and computer-readable medium for applying an elastomeric strip around a receiving device

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for applying an elastomeric strip to a receiving device, that is rotatable about a rotation axis and comprises a plurality of segments that form a circumferential support surface and are movable relative to the rotation axis in a radial direction, wherein the method comprises the steps of: a) applying a leading end of the elastomeric strip to the support surface in an application position; b) rotating the receiving device about the rotation axis; c) radially positioning a first segment, such that the support surface of said first segment, when the first segment arrives in or passes the application position, extends at a first radius and d) radially positioning a second segment such that the support surface of said second segment, when the second segment arrives in or passes the application position, extends at a second radius different from the first radius.

Description

[0001] , , an applicator and computer- readable medium for applying an elastomeric strip around a receiving device

[0002] BACKGROUND

[0003] The invention relates to a method for applying an elastomeric strip, for example an apex or apex strip , around a receiving device . The invention further relates to an applicator for applying said elastomeric strip around a receiving device . The invention further relates to a use of the applicator of the present invention to perform the method of the present invention The invention further relates to a computer-readable medium having computerexecutable instructions adapted to cause the applicator according to the present invention to perform the method according to the present invention .

[0004] WO 2005 / 118271 discloses a method of forming a tire bead as sembly . The method comprises providing a length of an apex filler of elastomeric material , the apex filler having an annular base portion for positioning axially adj acent a bead core ring on a support and an annular tapering portion for extending axially away from the base portion and the bead core ring , gripping a leading end of said length of apex filler so as to retain said end on a cylindrical former , gripping a trailing end of said length of apex filler using gripping means , rotating said cylindrical former so that said length of apex filler is wound thereon in a single turn , whilst moving said gripping means and said gripped trailing end towards said cylindrical former , j oining said leading and trailing ends together , and flipping the apex filler so that the base portion radially surrounds the bead core ring and adheres to the latter and the tapering portion extends generally radially outwardly . During winding , the gripper carries the trailing end of the apex filler towards the cylindrical former , at a speed which is matched to the circumferential speed of the cylindrical former by electronic controls to avoid flailing of the apex filler .

[0005] US 2018 / 0345612 Al dis closes a method for winding a rubber strip onto a form of revolution . The method includes steps of : forming a strip of predetermined length , applying front and rear edge marks to the strip , driving the strip towards the form, arranging a front edge of the strip on the form, and driving the form to wind the strip onto the form . In a first phase , the driving of the strip and the driving of the form are synchronized so as not to modify the length of the strip . In a second phase , the driving of the strip and the driving of the form are controlled depending on an angular position of the form and on a position of the rear edge mark , in order to vary relatively a displacement speed of the rear edge mark and a displacement speed of the front edge mark , to compensate for variations in the length of the strip .

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A disadvantage of the known methods is that , by gripping the trailing end of the strip and applying a speed difference between the trailing end gripper and the forming drum, the strip is gradually stretched . Accordingly, there is always a delay in reaching a desired stretch of the strip . In other words , the stretching of the strip occurs indirectly . Hence , accelerations and decelerations of the cylindrical former during the application proces s may lead to the apex being stretched in a variable and / or unpredictable manner . Moreover , the entire length of the strip between the trailing end gripper and the position at which the apex is applied to the forming drum may be stretched causing a reduction in the cros s-sectional area relative to the length of the strip that has already been applied to the forming drum .

[0008] Accordingly, the cros s section and / or or the mas s per length may vary along circumference of the receiving device . Said inconsistencies in the cross section and / or mas s per length may cause the resulting annular product or a resulting tire to be unbalanced . Accordingly, the quality of the resulting tire may be compromised .

[0009] It is an obj ect of the present invention to provide a method , an applicator , a use of said applicator and a computer-readable medium for applying an ela stomeric strip to a receiving device wherein the balance of the resulting annular product or the re sulting tire can be improved .

[0010] According to a f irst a spect , the present invention provides a method for applying an elastomeric strip , preferably an apex for tire building , to a receiving device , wherein the receiving device is rotatable about a rotation axis , wherein the receiving device comprises a plurality of segments that are distributed in a circumferential direction about the rotation axis , wherein said plurality of segments forms at least a part of a circumferential support surface that extends in a circumferential direction about the rotation axis , wherein each segment of the plurality of segments is movable relative to the rotation axis in a radial direction perpendicular to said rotation axis , wherein the method comprises the steps of : a ) applying a leading end of the elastomeric strip to the support surface in an initial angular application position at an angular position about the rotation axis ; b ) rotating the receiving device relative to the initial angular application position about the rotation axis to wind the elastomeric strip around the support surface of the receiving device ; c ) radially positioning a first segment of the plurality of segments in the radial direction , such that the support surface of said first segment , when the first segment arrives in or passes the initial angular application position, extends at a first radius and d) radially positioning a second segment of the plurality of segments in the radial direction such that the support surface of said second segment , when the second segment arrives in or passes the initial angular application position , extends at a second radius different from the first radius .

[0011] In other words , the second segment can be rotated past the initial angular application position at a radius different from the radius at which the first segment i s rotated past the initial angular application position . By varying the radius of the receiving device at the initial angular application position , the circumference of the support surface can be adj usted at least locally . Hence , the length of the elastomeric strip that is applied to the support surface can be varied relative to the rotation or angular di splacement of the receiving device in the circumferential direction . Accordingly, the mas s di stribution of the elastomeric material in the circumferential can be controlled by adj usting the radial position of the segment s at the initial angular application position .

[0012] By adj usting the radial position of the segments , an uncontrolled stretching of the elastomeric strip upstream of the initial angular application position can be prevented . In particular , the ela stomeric strip can first be reliably and accurately applied to the support surfaces of the respective segments without or substantially without stretching the strip upstream of the initial angular application position . After the elastomeric ha s been applied to the respective support surfaces of the segments , the elastomeric strip can be selectively and / or locally stretched in the circumferential direction by adj usting the radial pos ition of said segments . Hence , a mas s distribution and / or a stretch of the ela stomeric strip can be adj usted selectively and / or locally in the circumferential direction in a more controlled manner . Accordingly, a balance of the resulting annular product or tire can be improved .

[0013] The radial positions of the segments , when said segments arrive in the initial angular application position and / or are being rotated past the initial angular application pos ition , can be preprogrammed radial positions . In other words , said radial positions can correspond to a predetermined thicknes s profile of the resulting annular product . Alternatively, the method may comprise detecting or predicting a parameter representative of the mas s per length of the elastomeric strip and adj usting the radial positions of the segments in response to the detected parameter . For example , a cros s-sectional profile of the elastomeric strip may be detected using triangulation . Alternatively, a cros s - sectional profile of the elastomeric strip may for example be predicted based on empiric measurements . Accordingly, variation in the mas s per length of the strip can be compensated by adj usting the radial positions of the segments .

[0014] In an embodiment thereof , step c ) and / or step d) comprise radially positioning the first segment and / or the second segment during step b ) . In other words , a radial position of the second segment is adj usted during the winding of the elastomeric strip around the receiving device . The radial position of the second segment may be adj usted either while rotating the receiving device or between rotations of the receiving device . Alternatively, the second segment may be pos itioned in a predetermined radial position before starting the winding of step b ) .

[0015] In a further embodiment thereof , step c) comprises radially adj usting all segments of the plurality of segments simultaneously . In other words , a diameter of the receiving device can be adj usted, i . e . the receiving device can be expanded or contracted, while winding the elastomeric strip around the receiving device . The simultaneous adj ustment of the segments can be les s complex than individually adj usting the radial positions of the respective segments .

[0016] In a further embodiment , wherein the method further comprises the step of radially positioning a third segment of the plurality of segments in the radial direction such that the support surface of said third segment , when the third segment arrives in the initial angular application position , extends at a third radius different from the first radius and the second radius . In other words , three different segments can be positioned in three respective radial positions when being rotated past the initial angular application position . Adj usting a radial position of said third segment allows greater flexibility in winding the elastomeric strip around the receiving device . Accordingly, the accuracy of the mass distribution and the balance of the resulting annular product and / or tire can be further improved .

[0017] In a further embodiment , the strip has a predetermined length , wherein step b ) comprises winding the strip around the receiving device in a single winding . Accordingly, the leading and trailing ends of the strip can be spliced to form an annular product , e . g . an apex or apex filler .

[0018] In an embodiment thereof , the method further comprises the step of radially positioning all segments of the plurality of segments such that the support surface of each segment extends up to a neutral radius in which a circumference of the receiving device at the support surfaces is equal to or substantially equal to the length of the elastomeric strip . Hence , the elastomeric strip can be applied around the receiving device without or substantially without stretching . Accordingly, at said neutral radius , the leading end and the trailing end of the elastomeric strip can be spliced more accurately .

[0019] In an embodiment thereof , each segment of the plurality of segments is positioned in a respective radial position in which the support surface of said segment extends up to a respective radius when arriving in or pas sing the initial angular application position, wherein the average of said radii is equal to or substantially equal to the neutral radius . Hence , the strip can be wound in a single winding around the receiving device without or substantially without stretching said strip . Accordingly, the cros s section and / or the mas s distribution of the strip in the circumferential direction can be controlled more accurately and / or precisely .

[0020] In a further embodiment , the method comprises , during step b ) , supplying the elastomeric strip to the receiving device in a supply direction at a supply speed . Preferably, the elastomeric strip is supplied to the initial angular application position in a supply plane parallel or substantially parallel to the supply direction , wherein the supply plane is tangential or substantially tangential to the support surface of the receiving device in the initial angular application position . In other words , the elastomeric strip can be supplied in a direction tangential to the support surface of the receiving device . Preferably, the elastomeric strip is slightly tensioned upstream of the initial angular application position , e . g . by using a trailing end gripper , to prevent slacking of the elastomeric strip .

[0021] In an embodiment thereof , the method, during step b) , further comprises retaining a trailing end of the elastomeric strip and transporting said trailing end in the supply direction at the supply speed . By retaining the trailing end of the elastomeric strip, said trailing end can be transported in the supply direction in a controlled manner . More particularly, slacking of the elastomeric strip can be reduced or ultimately prevented .

[0022] In a further embodiment , step b ) comprises rotating the first segment past the initial angular application position at a first rotational speed, wherein the method further comprises rotating the second segment past the initial angular application position at a second rotational speed different from the first rotational speed . In other words , the rotational speed of the receiving device is adj usted in response to the radial position of the respective segments when said segments arrive in or pas s by the initial angular application position . Preferably, the change in rotational speed and the change in radial position are inversely related and / or inversely proportional . By adj usting both the radial position and the rotational speed, a circumferential speed of the respective support surface can be adj usted more accurately . Accordingly, a tension in the elastomeric strip upstream of the initial angular application position can be accurately controlled by adj usting said circumferential speed relative to the supply speed of the elastomeric strip .

[0023] In a preferred embodiment thereof , a circumferential speed of the support surface of the first segment in the circumferential direction at the first radius and at the first rotational speed corresponds to or substantially corresponds to the supply speed of the elastomeric strip . Additionally or alternatively, a circumferential speed of the support surface of the second segment in the circumferential direction at the second radius and at the second rotational speed corresponds to or substantially corresponds to the supply speed of the elastomeric strip . Accordingly, stretching and / or slacking of the elastomeric strip upstream of the initial angular application position can be reduced or ultimately prevented .

[0024] According to a further embodiment that may also be claimed independently, the one or more segments comprise a retaining segment for retaining the leading end of the elastomeric strip, wherein step a ) comprises the steps of : al ) positioning the retaining segment in a receiving position at a receiving radius , radially inward with respect to the supply plane at the initial angular application position; a2 ) positioning the leading end of the elastomeric strip in the supply plane at the initial angular application position and, subsequently, a3 ) moving said retaining segment radially outwards to engage said leading end of the elastomeric strip at the initial angular application position .

[0025] In other words , the retaining segment is initially positioned radially inward, preferably below, the supply plane at the initial angular application position . After the leading end has been positioned, supplied and / or transported to the initial angular application position , the retaining segment is moved radially outward for engaging and, preferably, retaining said leading end . Hence , the leading end of the strip can be supplied and / or transported up to the initial angular application position without or substantially without being obstructed, hindered or impeded by the retaining segment . Accordingy, the leading end of the strip can be positioned in the initial angular application position more efficiently and / or accurately .

[0026] In an embodiment thereof , at the initial radius the support surface of the retaining segment is located below the supply plane at the initial angular application position . Hence , the leading end of the elastomeric strip can be supplied and / or transported up to the initial angular application position in the supply plane without or substantially without being obstructed by the retaining segment .

[0027] In a further embodiment , the receiving device further comprises a clamping element that is movable relative to the retaining segment in the radial direction for clamping the leading end of the elastomeric strip between the support surface of said retaining segment and the clamping element , wherein step al ) comprises positioning the retaining segment and the clamping element on opposite sides of the supply plane at the initial angular application position and at a mutual distance that is larger than an initial thickness of the elastomeric strip , wherein step a2 ) comprises positioning the leading end between the retaining segment and the clamping element , and wherein step a3 ) comprises clamping the leading end between the support surface and the clamping element . The clamping element can reliably retain the leading end to the support surface of the retaining element .

[0028] In an embodiment thereof , step al ) comprises positioning the clamping element at an initial position radially outward of support plane at the initial angular application position , and wherein step a3 ) comprises moving the clamping element radially inward for clamping the leading end between the support surface and the clamping element . In other words , both the clamping element and the retaining segment can be moved away from the initial angular application position to facilitate insertion of the leading end . Hence , the leading end can be inserted between the retaining segment and the clamping element more reliably . Moreover , both the retaining segment and the clamping element can be moved towards one another for clamping the leading end . Hence , the leading end can be clamped more effectively and / or reliably .

[0029] According to a second aspect , the present invention relates to an applicator for applying an elastomeric strip , preferably an apex for tire building, to a receiving device , wherein the applicator comprises the receiving device and a supply device for supplying the elastomeric strip to the receiving device in a supply direction, wherein the receiving device is rotatable about a rotation axis , wherein the receiving device comprises a plurality of segments that are distributed in a circumferential direction about the rotation axis , wherein each segment of the plurality of segments is movable relative to the rotation axis in a radial direction perpendicular to said rotation axis , wherein the receiving device comprises a rotation drive for driving the rotation of the receiving device about the rotation axis and a radial drive for driving a movement of the plurality of segments in the radial direction , wherein the applicator further comprises a control unit , wherein the control unit is operationally connected to the rotation drive for controlling a rotational speed of the receiving device about the rotation axis , wherein the control unit is further operationally connected to the radial drive for controlling a radial position of the plurality of segments in the radial direction, wherein the control unit is configured to make the applicator perform the method according to any one of the preceding claims .

[0030] The applicator is configured to perform the method of the first aspect of the invention . Hence , the applicator comprises the same advantages as discus sed above . In particular, the control unit can effectively control the rotational drive and the radial drive to affect the respective radial positions and rotational speeds of the segments when arriving in and / or being rotated past the initial angular application position .

[0031] In a preferred embodiment thereof , the control unit is further operationally connected to the supply device for controlling a supply speed of the strip in the supply direction . Hence , the control unit can adj ust the supply speed relative to a circumferential speed of the support surface of a respective segment when being rotate past the initial angular application position . Alternatively, the control unit can adj ust said circumferential speed relative to the supply speed .

[0032] In a further embodiment , the supply device is arranged for supporting the strip in a supply plane that extends parallel or substantially parallel to the supply direction, wherein said supply plane is tangential or substantially tangential to the support surface of the receiving device at the initial angular application position . Hence , the elastomeric strip can be supplied to the initial angular application position in a direction tangential or substantially tangential to the support surface . Accordingly, a tension in the elastomeric strip can be controlled more precisely and / or accurately .

[0033] In a further embodiment , the radial drive comprises a spiral plate for simultaneously driving all segments in the radial direction . A spiral plate can effectively and / or accurately drive the simultaneous movement of the segments .

[0034] In a further embodiment , the applicator comprises a trailing end gripper for gripping a trailing end of the strip , wherein the trailing end gripper is movable in the supply direction, wherein the control unit is operationally connected to the trailing end gripper for controlling a movement of the trailing end gripper in the supply direction . The trailing end gripper can retain the trailing end of the elastomeric strip relative to the receiving device . Hence , a tension in the elastomeric strip between the trailing end gripper and the initial angular application position , i . e . upstream of the initial angular application position in the supply direction, can be controlled more accurately . In a further embodiment , the one or more segments comprise a retaining segment for retaining the leading end of the elastomeric strip , preferably wherein the receiving device further comprises a clamping element that is movable relative to the retaining segment in the radial direction for clamping the leading end of the elastomeric strip between the support surface of said retaining segment and the clamping element .

[0035] According to a third aspect , the present invention provides a use of the applicator according to the second aspect of the invention to perform the method according to the first aspect of the invention .

[0036] The use of the applicator incorporates the advantages of both the method and the applicator according to the present invention .

[0037] According to a fourth aspect , the present invention provides a computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions adapted to cause the applicator according to second aspect of the invention to perform the method according to the first aspect of the invention .

[0038] The instruction on the computer-readable medium are adapted to cause the applicator according to the present invention to perform the method according to the present invention . Hence , the computer-readable medium has the same advantages as mentioned above .

[0039] The various aspects and features described and shown in the specification can be applied, individually, wherever pos sible . These individual aspects , in particular the aspects and features described in the attached dependent claims , can be made subj ect of divisional patent applications .

[0040] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The invention will be elucidated on the basis of an exemplary embodiment shown in the attached schematic drawings , in which :

[0042] Figures 1-8 show an applicator for applying an elastomeric strip around a receiving device according to an embodiment of the present invention during exemplary steps of the method according to the present invention;

[0043] Figure 9 shows an alternative applicator according to a further embodiment of the present invention ;

[0044] Figure 10 shows the radius of the receiving device as a function of the rotation of the receiving device ; and

[0045] Figure 11 shows the rotational speed of the receiving device as a function of the rotation of said

[0046] Figures 1-8 show an applicator 1 for applying an elastomeric strip 9 around a receiving device 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention . Preferably, the elastomeric strip 9 is a strip of elastomeric material for tire building . More preferably, the elastomeric strip 9 is an apex or apex filler for a tire . Typically, such an apex of apex filler has a triangular cros s section . In the embodiment as shown, the elastomeric strip 9 has a predetermined strip length L and an initial thicknes s tO .

[0047] As is shown in figures 1-8 , the applicator 1 comprises the receiving device 3 and a supply device 2 for supplying the elastomeric strip 9 to the receiving device 3 in a supply direction T . In the embodiment as shown, the receiving device 3 is a forming device for forming and / or shaping an annular apex or apex filler .

[0048] The receiving device 3 is rotatable about a rotation axis A . The receiving device 3 comprises a plurality of segments 311-322 that are distributed in a circumferential direction C about the rotation axis A . The segments 311-322 are movable relative to the rotation axis A in a radial direction B . Said radial direction B extends perpendicular to the rotation axis A . In particular, the segments 311-322 are movable in the radial direction B away from the rotation axis A and towards the rotation axis A . In other words , the segments 311-322 are movable back and forth in the radial direction B .

[0049] The segments 311-322 are each provided with a support surface 30 for receiving and / or supporting the elastomeric strip 9 . The support surfaces 30 of the segments 311-322 form at least a part of a circumferential support surface of the receiving device 3 . The support surfaces 30 are facing in or substantially in the radial direction B away from the rotation axis A. In the embodiment as shown , the support surfaces are curved and / or convex . Preferably, a radius of curvature of the support surfaces 30 corresponds or substantially corresponds to a neutral radius RO of the receiving device 3 .

[0050] As is shown in figures 1-8 , the receiving device 3 further comprises a clamping element 39 or clamp bar for selectively retaining the LE of the elastomeric strip 9 to the support surface 30 of a first segment or retaining segment 311 of the plurality of segments 311-322 . The clamping element 39 is movable relative to the support surface 30 in the radial direction B for clamping the elastomeric strip 9 against the support surface 30 . The clamping element 39 is rotatable about the rotation axis A together with the retaining segment 311 . Preferably, the retaining segment 311 and the clamping element 39 are fixed with respect to one another in the circumferential direction C .

[0051] Alternatively, the retaining segment 311 may comprise retaining means (not shown) for selectively retaining a leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 to the support surface 30 of the first segment 311 . The retaining segment 311 may for example comprise a gripper , magnets or vacuum cups .

[0052] The receiving device 3 comprises a rotation drive 33 for driving the rotation of the receiving device 3 about the rotation axis A . The rotation drive 33 is arranged to drive the rotation of the receiving device 3 at a rotational speed U .

[0053] The receiving device 3 further comprises a radial drive 34 for driving the segments 311-322 in the radial direction B relative to the rotation axis A . Said radial drive 34 may for example comprise a spiral plate ( not shown ) . A spiral plate is for example known from WO 2005 / 118271 . Alternatively, the radial drive may for example comprise a plurality of linear drives for driving the segments 311-322 in the radial direction B . Preferably, the radial drive 34 is capable of and / or configured for driving the segments 311-322 in the radial direction B while rotating said segments 311-322 about the rotation axis A .

[0054] As is shown in figures 1-8 , the supply device 2 comprises a conveyor 23 for supporting the elastomeric strip 9 in a supply plane P . Preferably, said supply plane P extends tangential to the circumferential direction C of the receiving device 3 . In particular , the supply plane P extends tangential to the support surface 30 of the receiving device 3 when said support surface 30 is positioned at a neutral radius RO in the radial direction B . In other words , when the plurality of segments 311-322 are positioned at the neutral radius RO , the support surface 30 extends up to the supply plane P . In other words , at said neutral radius RO , the supply plane P is tangential to the support surface .

[0055] As is further shown in figures 1-8 , the exact position at which the elastomeric strip 9 is applied to the support surface 30 of a respective one of the segments 311- 322 may slightly vary during the winding of the elastomeric strip 9 around the support surface 30 , depending on the radial position of said segment 311-322 . Accordingly, an initial angular application position S may be defined as an angle or angular position about the rotation axis A in which the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 is first and / or initially applied to the support surface 30 of a respective one of the segments 311-322 . Accordingly, the initial angular application position S can be independent of a rotation of the receiving device 3 about the rotation axis A . Preferably, the initial angular application position S is set to be the angular position about the rotation axis A at which the support surface 30 , at the neutral radius R0 , touches the supply plane P . In other words , in the initial angular application position S , the supply plane P is tangential or substantially tangential to the support surface 30 at the neutral radius RO .

[0056] As is further shown in figures 1-8 , the supply device 2 comprises a leading end gripper 21 for retaining or gripping the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 , and a trailing end gripper 22 for gripping a trailing end TE of the elastomeric strip 9 . The leading end gripper 22 is arranged for retaining the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 and for transporting , conveying or moving said leading end LE to or towards the initial angular application position S at the receiving device 3 . The leading end gripper 21 is movable towards the receiving device 3 in a supply direction T . The trailing end gripper 22 is arranged for transporting , conveying or moving the trailing end TE towards the initial angular application position S in the supply direction T . The trailing end gripper 22 is arranged to be moved in the supply direction T at a supply speed V.

[0057] Alternatively, the supply device 2 may comprise a single gripper for retaining and transferring the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 to the receiving device 3 and subsequently retaining and transferring the trailing end TE of the elastomeric strip 9 in the supply direction T .

[0058] As is further shown in figures 1-8 , the applicator 1 comprises a control unit 7 . The control unit 7 is functionally and / or operationally connected to the supply device 2 and the receiving device 3 . More particularly, the control unit 7 is functionally and / or operationally connected to the rotational drive 33 to control the rotational speed U of the receiving device 3 . Additionally, the control unit 7 is functionally and / or operationally connected to the radial drive 34 to control the respective radial positions of the plurality of segments 311-322 in the radial direction B .

[0059] Optionally, the control unit 7 may further be configured to control the supply speed V. The control unit 7 may for example control the movement of the trailing end gripper 22 in the supply direction T .

[0060] The control unit 7 is configured to adj ust a position of each respective segment 311-322 in the radial direction B while rotating said segment 311-322 past the initial angular application position S .

[0061] Figure 9 shows an alternative applicator 101 according to a further embodiment of the present invention . The alternative applicator 101 differs from the previously discus sed applicator in that the segments 1311-1322 of the receiving device 103 are individually movable in the radial direction B . Accordingly, the receiving device 103 comprises an alternative radial drive 134 that is configured or adapted for driving the segments 1311-1322 individually and / or independently in the radial direction B . Said radial drive 134 may for example comprise a plurality of linear actuators ( not shown ) , such as pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders .

[0062] A method for applying the elastomeric strip 9 to the receiving device 3 is now described using figures 1-8 , 9 and 10 .

[0063] As is shown in figure 1 , the receiving device 3 has been positioned in a receiving position and / or receiving orientation for receiving the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 . The first segment or retaining segment 311 has been positioned and / or rotated into the initial angular application position S . The retaining segment 311 and the clamping element 39 have been positioned on opposite sides of the supply plane P at a mutual distance . Said mutual distance is larger than the initial thicknes s tO of the elastomeric strip 9 . More particularly, the retaining segment 311 has been positioned in a receiving position in which the support surface 30 of the retaining segment 311 extends at a receiving radius Rc . Preferably, said receiving radius Rc is smaller than the neutral radius R0 of the receiving device 3 . In other words , the support surface 30 of the retaining segment 311 extends radially inward with respect to the supply plane P at the initial angular application position S . More particularly, the support surface 30 of the retaining segment 311 extends below the supply plane P at the initial angular application position S .

[0064] In the embodiment as shown, the segments 311-322 are synchronously movable . Accordingly all segments are positioned in a receiving position in which the support surface 30 extends at the receiving radius Rc .

[0065] As is further shown in figure 1 , the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 has been supplied to the initial angular application position S . The leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 is held by the leading end gripper 21 . More particularly, the leading end LE has been gripped and / or retained by the leading end gripper 21 and has been transported in the supply direction T . The trailing end TE of the elastomeric strip is held by the trailing end gripper 22 . Preferably, the trailing end TE of the elastomeric strip 9 is gripped and / or retained by the trailing end gripper 22 and transported in the supply direction T . Optionally, at least a part of the elastomeric strip 9 is supported in the supply plane P by the conveyor 23 .

[0066] In the embodiment as shown, the elastomeric strip 9 has been cut to length , i . e . at the strip length L , prior to supplying said elastomeric strip 9 to the receiving device 3 . Alternatively, the elastomeric strip 9 may be cut to length while supplying the elastomeric strip 9 to the receiving device 3 .

[0067] As is shown in figure 2 , the retaining segment 311 has been moved radially outward , retaining segment 311 and the clamping element 39 have been moved towards one another to clamp the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 . The remaining segments 312 -322 have been moved radially outward as wellin unison with the retaining segment 311 .

[0068] By clamping the leading end LE , the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 has been applied to the support surface 30 of the retaining segment 311 . More particularly, the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 has been applied to the support surface at the initial angular application position S . In other words , the initial angular application position S has been set by applying the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 to the support surface 30 of the retaining segment 311 .

[0069] Each of the segments 311-322 of the receiving device 3 has been positioned in a respective radial position in the radial direction B . In particular , all segments 311-322 have been positioned in a first radial position in which the support surfaces 30 of said segments 311-322 extend at or up to a first diameter of first radius R1 . Optionally, the first radius R1 corresponds to the neutral radius RO . Preferably, the neutral radius RO is set or adj usted, such that , at said neutral radius RO , a circumference of the support surface 30 in the circumferential direction C is equal to or substantially equal to the strip length L . Additionally or alternatively, the strip length L may be adj usted to the circumference of the support surface 30 at the neutral radius R0 .

[0070] As is shown in figure 3 , the receiving device 3 has been rotated about the rotation axis A. As a consequence , a first strip section 91a of the elastomeric strip 9 has been applied to the support surface 30 of the receiving device 3 . In particular , the elastomeric strip 9 has been applied to the respective support surfaces 30 of the first segment 311 and a second segment 312 . Said second segment 312 is located adj acent to the first segment 311 in the circumferential direction C .

[0071] In particular , the receiving device 3 has been rotated about the rotation axis A by the rotation drive 33 at a first rotational speed W1 . Simultaneously, the trailing end TE of the elastomeric strip 9 has been transported in the supply direction T by the trailing end gripper 22 at the supply speed V. Preferably, the first rotational speed W1 is adapted to the first radius R1 . More particularly, the first rotational speed W1 has been set , such that a circumferential speed of the support surface 30 at the first radius R1 is equal to or substantially equal to the supply speed V. In other words , the circumferential speed of the elastomeric strip 9 at the initial angular application position S may be equal to or substantially equal to the supply speed V. Accordingly, a thickness of the first strip section 91a that has been applied to the support surface 30 of the receiving device 3 can be equal to or substantially equal to the initial thicknes s tO of the elastomeric strip 9 .

[0072] As is shown in figure 4 , the receiving device 3 has been rotated further about the rotation axis A by the rotation drive 33 . Accordingly, the elastomeric strip 9 has further been applied to a third segment 313 adj acent to the second segment 312 in the circumferential direction C .

[0073] Subsequently, all segments 311-322 of the plurality of segments 311-322 have been moved radially outward in the radial direction B . The segments 311-322 have been moved in the radial direction by the radial drive 34 .

[0074] In particular , each segment 311-322 has been positioned in a second radial position in which the support surfaces 30 of said segments 311-322 extend at or up to a second diameter of second radius R2 different from the first radius R1 . More particularly, the segments 311-322 have been moved outward in the radial direction B . In other words , the receiving device 3 has been expanded .

[0075] As can further be seen in figure 4 , moving the segments 311-313 to which the first strip section 91a has been applied radially outward has caused the said strip section 91a to stretch in the circumferential direction C . Accordingly, a thicknes s of the first strip section 91a has been reduced .

[0076] As is shown in figure 5 , the receiving device 3 has been rotated further about the rotation axis A. In particular , the receiving device 3 has been rotated further about the rotation axis A with the segments 311-322 in the second radial position . More particularly, a fourth segment

[0077] 314 adj acent to the third segment 313 and a fifth segment

[0078] 315 adj acent to the fourth segment 314 in the circumferential direction C have been rotated past the initial angular application position S while being positioned in the second radial position . As a consequence a second strip section 91b has been applied to the support surface 30 of said fourth segment 314 and said fifth segment 315 .

[0079] In particular, as is shown in figures 10 and 11 , the receiving device 3 has been rotated about the rotation axis A by the rotation drive 33 at a second rotational speed W2 different from the first rotational speed W1 to apply the second strip section 91b to the respective support surfaces 30 .

[0080] Simultaneously, the trailing end TE of the elastomeric strip 9 has been transported in the supply direction T by the trailing end gripper 22 at the supply speed V. As is further shown in figures 10 and 11 , the second rotational speed W2 is adapted to the second radius R2 . More particularly, the second rotational speed W2 has been set , such that a circumferential speed of the support surface 30 at the second radius R2 is equal to or substantially equal to the supply speed V. Accordingly, a thicknes s of the second strip section 91b that has been applied to the support surface 30 of the receiving device 3 can be equal to or substantially equal to the initial thicknes s tO of the elastomeric strip 9 .

[0081] As is shown in figures 6 and 10 , the segments 311-322 of the receiving device 3 have been moved radially inward after applying the second strip section 91b to the respective support surfaces 30 of the fourth segment 314 and the fifth segment 315 . In particular , the segments 311- 322 have been moved back into the first radial position . In other words , the respective support surfaces 30 of the segments 311-322 extend at or up to the first radius R1 . Subsequently, the receiving device 3 has been rotated about the rotation axis A to consecutively apply a third strip section 91c of the elastomeric strip 9 to the support surface 30 . In particular, said third strip section 91c has been consecutively applied to a sixth segment 316 adj acent to the fifth segment 315 and a seventh segment 317 adj acent to the sixth segment 316 in the circumferential direction C .

[0082] As is shown in figures 10 and 11 , in said first radial position, the receiving device has been rotated at the first circumferential speed W1 to apply the third strip section 91c to the respective support surfaces 30 . Accordingly, the circumferential speed at said support surfaces is equal to or substantially equal to the supply speed V.

[0083] As is further shown in figure 6 , the first strip section 91a and the third strip section 91c have a thicknes s that is equal to or substantially equal to the initial thicknes s tO of the elastomeric strip 9 . By moving the segment 311-322 , in particular the fourth segment 314 and the fifth segment 315 , radially inward, a thicknes s of the second strip section 91b has increased . In particular , the thicknes s of the second strip section 91b has increased to first thickness tl larger than the initial thicknes s tO . In other words , the second strip section 91b has a higher mas s or weight per length in the circumferential direction C .

[0084] As is shown in figures 7 and 10 , after the third strip section 91c has been applied to the respective support surfaces 30 of a further eighth segment 318 and ninth segment 319 , the segments 311-322 have been moved further inward in the radial direction B . In particular , the segments 311-322 have been moved into a third radial position in which the respective support surface 30 extend at or up to a third radius R3 . Said third radius R3 is smaller than the first radius R1 and the second radius R2 .

[0085] Subsequently, as is shown in figures 10 and 11 , the receiving device 3 is rotated about the rotation axis A to apply a fourth strip section 91d to the support surface 30 . In particular , the receiving device is rotated at a third rotational speed W3 with the segments 311-322 are in said third radial position . In the embodiment as shown, third rotational speed W3 is higher than the first rotational speed W1 and the second rotational speed W2 . Again , the rotational speed W3 is adj usted, such that a circumferential speed at the support surfaces 30 is equal to or substantially equal to the supply speed V.

[0086] As is shown in figures 8 and 10 , the receiving device 3 has been further rotated about the rotation axis A to subsequently apply a fourth strip section 91d and a fifth strip section 91e to the respective support surfaces 30 of the receiving device 3 . In particular, the fourth strip section 91d has been applied to a tenth segment 320 adj acent to the ninth segment 319 and an eleventh segment 321 adj acent to the tenth segment 320 in the circumferential direction C . The fifth strip section 91e has been applied to a twelfth segment 322 adj acent to the eleventh segment 321 and to the first segment 311 .

[0087] Preferably, the trailing end TE of the elastomeric strip 9 is spliced to the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 to form an annular product . In the embodiment as shown , the leading end TE and the trailing end TE are spliced in an overlapping splice 92 . Alternatively, the leading end LE and the trailing end TE may for example be butt spliced .

[0088] As is further shown in figures 8 and 10 , the segments 311-322 have been moved back into the first radial position prior to applying the fifth strip section 91e to the respective support surfaces 30 . In particular, the twelfth segment 322 and the first segment 311 have been moved in the first radial position before arriving in the initial angular application position S . The fifth strip section 91e has been applied to the support surfaces of the twelfth segment 322 and the first segment 311 by rotating the receiving device 3 at the first rotational speed W1 . As is shown in figure 8 , the first strip section 91a , the third strip section 91c and the fifth strip section 91e each have a thickness that is equal to or substantially equal to the initial thicknes s tO of the elastomeric strip 9 . The second strip section 91b has a first thicknes s tl that is larger than the initial thicknes s tO . The fourth strip section 91d has a second thicknes s t2 that is smaller than the initial thicknes s tl . As a result , a mas s center or center of mas s of the resulting annular product is shifted from the rotation axis A towards the second strip section 91b .

[0089] In the exemplary embodiment as described above , the resulting annular product comprise one strip section with an increased thicknes s , i . e . the second strip section 91b , and one strip section with a decreased thickness , i . e . the fourth strip section 91d . Alternatively, multiple strip sections with either increased or decreased thicknes s may be created by adj usting the radial positions of the respective segments 311-322 . Moreover , the segments 311-322 may be positioned in further radial positions , when arriving in or being rotated past the initial angular application position S . In said further radial positions , the respective support surfaces 30 can extend at or up to a further radius different from the first radius Rl , the second radius R2 and the third radius R3 . Preferably, an average of said radii Rl , R2 , R3 is equal to or substantially equal to the neutral radius RO .

[0090] An alternative method according to the present invention will be elucidated using figure 9 . The method uses the alternative applicator 101 as discussed above .

[0091] The alternative method comprises individually setting or adj usting the respective radial positions of the segments 1311-1322 before the segments 1311-1322 arrive in the initial angular application position S . In other words , the respective radial position of each segment 1311-1322 has been adj usted when said segment 1311-1322 is being rotated past the initial angular application position S . In this embodiment , the adj ustment of one of the segments 1311-1322 in the radial direction B , before arriving in the initial angular application position S , does not require an adj ustment of the remaining segments 1311-1322 in the radial direction B .

[0092] In the embodiment as shown in figure 9 , the method comprises positioning each segment 1311-1322 in a respective predetermined radial positions prior to winding the elastomeric strip 9 around the respective support surfaces 130 . For the purpose of illustrating the method, the respective radial positions of the segments 1311-1322 correspond to the radial positions of the segments 1311- 1322 of the previously discussed method, when said segments 1311-1322 are rotated past the initial angular application position S . In particular , the fourth segment 1314 and the fifth segment 1315 have been positioned into the second radial position in which the corresponding support surfaces 130 extends at or up to the second radius R2 . The tenth segment 1320 and the eleventh segment 1321 have been positioned into the third radial position in which the corresponding support surfaces 130 extend at or up to the third radius R3 . The remaining segments 1311-1312 , 1316-

[0093] 1319 and 1322 have been positioned in the first radial position .

[0094] After the segments 1311-1322 have been positioned in the respective radial positions , the method comprises applying the leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 to the support surface 130 of the first segment 311 and rotating the receiving device 103 about the rotation axis A to apply the elastomeric strip 9 to the respective support surfaces of the further segments 1312 -1322 . When rotating the receiving device 103 about the rotation axis A, the rotational speed U is adj usted in a manner similar to the previously discus sed method . In particular , the receiving device 103 is rotated at the second rotational speed W2 while rotating the fourth segment 1314 and the fifth segment 1315 past the initial angular application position S . The receiving device 103 is rotated at the third rotational speed W3 while rotating the tenth segment 1320 and the eleventh segment 1321 past the initial angular application position S . Accordingly, the receiving device 103 is rotated at the first rotational speed W1 when rotating the remaining segments 1311-1313 , 1316-1319 and 1322 past the initial angular application position S .

[0095] As a result , the elastomeric strip 9 can applied to the respective support surfaces 130 at a constant or substantially constant thickness . More particularly, said thicknes s is equal to or substantially equal to the initial thicknes s tO of the elastomeric strip 9 .

[0096] After the elastomeric strip 9 has been applied around the receiving device 103 and the leading end LE and the trailing end TE have been spliced, all segments 1311- 1322 are positioned in the first radial position to arrive at the situation as illustrated in figure 8 .

[0097] In summary, the present invention relates to a method for applying an elastomeric strip 9 to a receiving device 3 , wherein the receiving device 3 is rotatable about a rotation axis A, wherein the receiving device 3 comprises a plurality of segments 311-312 that form a circumferential support surface 30 , wherein the segments 311-322 are movable relative to the rotation axis A in a radial direction B perpendicular to said rotation axis A, wherein the method comprises the steps of : a ) angularly positioning a first segment 311 of the plurality of segments 311-322 at an initial angular application position S and radially positioning said first segment 311 such that the support surface 30 of the first segment 311 extends at a first radius R1 and applying a leading end LE of the elastomeric strip 9 to said support surface 30 in said initial angular application position S ; b ) rotating the receiving device 3 about the rotation axis A to wind the elastomeric strip 9 around the support surface 30 of the receiving device 3 ; and c ) radially positioning a second segment 314 , 315 of the plurality of segments 311-322 in the radial direction B such that the support surface 30 of said second segment 314 , 315 , when the second segment 314 , 315 arrives in or passes the application position , extends at a second radius R2 different from the first radius R1 .

[0098] It is to be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of the preferred embodiments and is not meant to limit the scope of the invention . From the above discus sion , many variations will be apparent to one skilled in the art that would yet be encompas sed by the scope of the present invention .

[0099] Reference Numerals

[0100] 1 applicator

[0101] 2 supply device

[0102] 21 leading end gripper

[0103] 22 trailing end gripper

[0104] 3 receiving device

[0105] 30 support surface

[0106] 311-322 segment

[0107] 33 rotation drive

[0108] 34 radial drive

[0109] 39 clamping element

[0110] 7 control unit

[0111] 9 elastomeric strip

[0112] 91a first strip section

[0113] 91b second strip section

[0114] 91c third strip section

[0115] 91d fourth strip section

[0116] 91e fifth strip section

[0117] 101 alternative applicator

[0118] 103 alternative receiving device 130 support surface

[0119] 1311-1322 segment

[0120] 134 alternative radial drive

[0121] A rotation axis

[0122] B radial direction

[0123] C circumferential direction

[0124] RO neutral radius

[0125] R1 first radius

[0126] R2 second radius

[0127] R3 third radius

[0128] Rc initial radius

[0129] L strip length

[0130] LE leading end

[0131] P supply plane

[0132] S initial angular application position

[0133] T supply direction tO initial thicknes s tl first thicknes s t2 second thickness

[0134] TE trailing end

[0135] U rotational speed

[0136] V supply speed

[0137] W1 first rotational speed

[0138] W2 second rotational speed

[0139] W3 third rotational speed

Claims

C L A I M S1. Method for applying an elastomeric strip (9) , preferably an apex for tire building, to a receiving device (3, 103) , wherein the receiving device (3, 103) is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) , wherein the receiving device (3, 103) comprises a plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) that are distributed in a circumferential direction (C) about the rotation axis (A) , wherein said plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) forms at least a part of a circumferential support surface (30, 130) that extends in a circumferential direction (C) about the rotation axis (A) , wherein each segment (311-322; 1311-1322) of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) is movable relative to the rotation axis (A) in a radial direction (B) perpendicular to said rotation axis (A) , wherein the method comprises the steps of: a) applying a leading end (LE) of the elastomeric strip (9) to the support surface (30, 130) in an initial angular application position (S) about the rotation axis (A) ; b) rotating the receiving device (3, 103) relative to the initial angular application position (S) about the rotation axis (A) to wind the elastomeric strip (9) around the support surface (30, 130) of the receiving device ( 3 , 103 ) ; c) radially positioning a first segment (311,312, 313; 1311, 1312, 1313) of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) in the radial direction (B) , such that the support surface (30, 130) of said first segment (311, 312, 313; 1311, 1312, 1313) , when the first segment (311, 312, 313; 1311, 1312, 1313) arrives in or passes the initial angular application position (S) , extends at a first radius (Rl) andd) radially positioning a second segment (314, 315; 1314, 1315) of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) in the radial direction (B) such that the support surface (30, 130) of said second segment (314, 315; 1314, 1315) , when the second segment (314, 315; 1314, 1315) arrives in or passes the initial angular application position (S) , extends at a second radius (R2) different from the first radius (Rl) .

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein steps c) and / or d) comprise radially positioning the first segment (311, 312, 313; 1311, 1312, 1313) and / or the second segment (314, 315; 1314; 1315) during step b) .

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein step c) and / or d) comprise radially adjusting all segments (311-322) of the plurality of segments (311-322) simultaneously .

4. Method according to claim 1, wherein steps c) and d) comprise radially positioning the first segment (1311, 1312, 1313) and the second segment (1314, 1315) prior to step b) .

5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises the step of radially positioning a third segment (320, 321; 1320, 1321) of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) in the radial direction (B) such that the support surface (30, 130) of said third segment (320, 321; 1320, 1321) , when the third segment (320, 321; 1320, 1321) arrives in or passes the initial angular application position (S) , extends at a third radius (R3) different from the first radius (Rl) and the second radius (R2) .

6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastomeric strip (9) has a predetermined length (L) , and wherein step b) comprises winding the elastomeric strip (9) around the receiving device (3) in a single winding.

7. Method according to claim 6, wherein themethod further comprises the step of radially positioning all segments (311-322; 1311-1322) of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) such that the support surface (30, 130) of each segment (311-322; 1311-1322) extends up to a neutral radius (RO) in which a circumference of the receiving device (3, 103) at the support surfaces (30, 130) is equal to or substantially equal to the length (L) of the elastomeric strip (9) .

8. Method according to claim 7, wherein each segment (311-322; 1311-1322) of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) is positioned in a respective radial position in which the support surface (30, 130) of said segment (311-322; 1311-1322) extends up to a respective radius (R0, Rl, R2 , R3) when arriving in or passing the initial angular application position (S) , wherein the average of said radii (R0, Rl, R2 , R3) is equal to or substantially equal to the neutral radius (R0) .

9. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method, during step b) , comprises supplying the elastomeric strip (9) to the initial angular application position (S) in a supply direction (T) at a supply speed (V) .

10. Method according to claim 9, wherein the elastomeric strip (9) is supplied to the initial angular application position (S) in a supply plane (P) parallel or substantially parallel to the supply direction (T) , wherein the supply plane (P) is tangential or substantially tangential to the support surface (30, 130) of the receiving device (3, 103) in the initial angular application position (S) .

11. Method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the method, during step b) , further comprises retaining a trailing end (TE) of the elastomeric strip (9) and transporting said trailing end (TE) in the supply direction (T) at the supply speed (V) .

12. Method according to any one of the claims 9-11, wherein step b) comprises rotating the first segment (311, 312, 313; 1311, 1312, 1313) past the initial angular application position (S) at a first rotational speed (Wl) , wherein the method further comprises rotating the second segment (314, 315; 1314, 1315) past the initial angular application position (S) at a second rotational speed (W2) different from the first rotational speed (Wl) .

13. Method according to claim 12, wherein a circumferential speed of the support surface (30, 130) of the first segment (311, 312, 313; 1311, 1312, 1313) in the circumferential direction (C) at the first radius (Rl) and at the first rotational speed (Wl) corresponds to or substantially corresponds to the supply speed (V) of the elastomeric strip (9) .

14. Method according to claim 13, wherein a circumferential speed of the support surface (30, 130) of the second segment (314, 315; 1314, 1315) in the circumferential direction (C) at the second radius (R2) and at the second rotational speed (W2) corresponds to or substantially corresponds to the supply speed (V) of the elastomeric strip (9) .

15. Method according to any one of the claims 10- 14, wherein the one or more segments (311-322; 1311-1322) comprise a retaining segment (311, 1311) for retaining the leading end (LE) of the elastomeric strip (9) , wherein step a) comprises the steps of: al) positioning the retaining segment (311, 1311) in a receiving position at a receiving radius (Rc) , radially inward with respect to the supply plane (P) at the initial angular application position (S) ; a2) positioning the leading end (LE) of the elastomeric strip (9) in the supply plane (P) at the initial angular application position (S) and, subsequently, a3) moving said retaining segment (311, 1311) radially outwards to engage said leading end (LE) of the elastomeric strip (9) at the initial angular applicationposition ( S ) .

16. Method according to claim 15, wherein, at the receiving radius (Rc) , the support surface (30, 130) of the retaining segment (311, 1311) is located below the supply plane (P) at the initial angular application position (S) .

17. Method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the receiving device (3, 103) further comprises a clamping element (39) that is movable relative to the retaining segment (311, 1311) in the radial direction (B) for clamping the leading end (LE) of the elastomeric strip (9) between the support surface (30, 130) of said retaining segment (311, 1311) and the clamping element (39) , wherein step al) comprises positioning the retaining segment (311, 1311) and the clamping element (39) on opposite sides of the supply plane (P) at the initial angular application position (S) and at a mutual distance that is larger than an initial thickness (tO) of the elastomeric strip (9) , wherein step a2) comprises positioning the leading end (LE) between the retaining segment (311, 1311) and the clamping element (39) , and wherein step a3) comprises clamping the leading end (LE) between the support surface (30, 130) and the clamping element (39) .

18. Method according to claim 17, wherein step al) comprises positioning the clamping element (39) at a receiving position radially outward of the support plane (P) at the initial angular application position (S) , and wherein step a3) comprises moving the clamping element (39) radially inward for clamping the leading end (LE) between the support surface (30, 130) and the clamping element(39) .

19. Applicator (1, 101) for applying an elastomeric strip (9) , preferably an apex for tire building, to a receiving device (3, 103) , wherein the applicator (1, 101) comprises the receiving device (3, 103) and a supply device (2) for supplying the elastomeric strip (9) to the receiving device (3, 103) in a supply direction(T) , wherein the receiving device (3, 103) is rotatable about a rotation axis (A) , wherein the receiving device comprises a plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) that are distributed in a circumferential direction (C) about the rotation axis (A) , wherein each segment (311-322; 1311- 1322) of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) is movable relative to the rotation axis (A) in a radial direction (B) perpendicular to said rotation axis (A) , wherein the receiving device (3, 103) comprises a rotation drive (33) for driving the rotation of the receiving device (3, 103) about the rotation axis (A) and a radial drive (34, 134) for driving a movement of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) in the radial direction (B) , wherein the applicator (1, 101) further comprises a control unit (7) , wherein the control unit (7) is operationally connected to the rotation drive (33) for controlling a rotational speed (U) of the receiving device (3, 103) about the rotation axis (A) , wherein the control unit (7) is further operationally connected to the radial drive (34, 134) for controlling a radial position of the plurality of segments (311-322; 1311-1322) in the radial direction (B) , wherein the control unit (7) is configured to make the applicator (1, 101) perform the method according to any one of the preceding claims.

20. Applicator (1, 101) according to claim 19, wherein the control unit (7) is further operationally connected to the supply device (2) for controlling a supply speed (V) of the elastomeric strip (9) in the supply direction (T) .

21. Applicator (1, 101) according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the supply device (2) is arranged for supporting the elastomeric strip (9) in a supply plane (P) that extends parallel or substantially parallel to the supply direction (T) , wherein said supply plane (P) is tangential or substantially tangential to the support surface (30, 130) of the receiving device (3, 103) at theinitial angular application position (S) .

22. Applicator (1) according to any one of the claims 19-21, wherein the radial drive (34) comprises a spiral plate for simultaneously driving all segments (311- 322) of the plurality of segments (311-322) in the radial direction (B) .

23. Applicator (1, 101) according to any one of the claims 19-22, wherein the applicator (1, 101) comprises a trailing end gripper (22) for gripping a trailing end (TE) of the elastomeric strip (9) , wherein the trailing end gripper (22) is movable in the supply direction (T) , wherein the control unit (7) is operationally connected to the trailing end gripper (22) for controlling a movement of the trailing end gripper (22) in the supply direction (T) .

24. Applicator (1, 101) according to any one of the claims 19-23, wherein the one or more segments (311- 322; 1311-1322) comprise a retaining segment (311, 1311) for retaining the leading end (LE) of the elastomeric strip (9) , preferably wherein the receiving device (3, 103) further comprises a clamping element (39) that is movable relative to the retaining segment (311, 1311) in the radial direction (B) for clamping the leading end (LE) of the elastomeric strip (9) between the support surface (30, 130) of said retaining segment (311, 1311) and the clamping element (39) .

25. Use of the applicator (1, 101) according to any one of the claims 19-24 to perform the method according to any one of the claims 1-18.

26. Computer-readable medium having computerexecutable instructions adapted to cause the applicator (1, 101) according to any one of the claims 19-24 to perform the method according to any one of the claims 1-19.-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-GH / RM

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