3D Kerf-Forming Blade Structure to Prevent Vulcanization Deformation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The deformation of kerf shape during tire vulcanization leads to defects in tire tread patterns, compromising grip and performance, especially on dry and icy surfaces, due to the thinness and fragility of existing kerf-forming blades.

Innovation Solution

A 3D kerf-forming blade with a wave-shaped frame and a supporting bar structure that connects two frames, enhancing durability by preventing deformation under pressure and heat, allowing for precise kerf formation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the thickness of the kerf is reduced to improve dry performance, then dry grip and wear performance are improved, but snow and ice performance deteriorates and the kerf becomes more prone to warping and breaking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvekerf thickness controlVSAvoidkerf structural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by varying the thickness of the blade frame in different regions. The frame has a thicker upper portion and a thinner lower portion, allowing the kerf to be formed with precise thickness control while the thicker upper portion provides structural support to prevent warping and breaking during manufacturing and use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If a thin blade frame is used to form precise kerf, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the blade frame becomes fragile and prone to deformation during vulcanization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvekerf shape accuracyVSAvoidblade frame durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The blade frame's thickness parameter is changed along its length, creating a gradient structure. The upper portion maintains sufficient thickness for strength and rigidity during vulcanization, while the lower portion is thin enough to form precise kerf shapes. This gradual parameter change resolves the contradiction between precision and strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a dimensional variation in the blade frame's cross-sectional thickness. Instead of a uniform thickness, the frame transitions from thicker at the top to thinner at the bottom, adding a gradient dimension that simultaneously provides structural integrity and precision forming capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Weight of moving object

If the blade frame is made thinner to reduce weight, then ease of operation is improved, but the blade frame becomes more susceptible to deformation under heat and pressure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblade frame weightVSAvoidblade frame shape stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The blade frame employs parameter changes in thickness distribution, being thinner where weight reduction is needed and thicker where structural stability is required. This selective parameter optimization reduces overall weight while maintaining shape stability during the high-temperature and high-pressure vulcanization process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4230393B13D blade for forming kerf
Publication Date: 2024.12.04 HANKOOK TIRE & TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
  • EP4230393B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4230393B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4230393B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

An embodiment of the present invention provides a technique for minimizing the deformation of the shape of a kerf by improving the durability of a blade used in forming the kerf during tire vulcanization. A 3D kerf-forming blade according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a tire vulcanization mold for forming a kerf and includes a frame formed in a shape of a plate having a wave shape in a cross section horizontal to a thickness direction and a support formed in a shape of a bar having one side connected to the frame and the other side connected to another frame.