Adjustable Sector Coupling for Tire Vulcanization Molds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vulcanization devices with radially movable sectors are limited by being specific to a fixed number of sectors and angular positions, making them expensive to manufacture and restricting their use to a limited range of tire types.
Innovation Solution
A vulcanization device with adjustable second coupling means between sectors and the upper plate, allowing radial movement and adaptation to varying numbers and positions of sectors, along with adjustable guide parts on the closure ring for easy alignment and thermal transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the closing crown and upper plate are made permanently adapted to a single vulcanization mold with fixed sectors, then the manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but the manufacturing cost increases and the adaptability to different tire types decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the sectors movable rather than fixed. The sectors can be adjusted radially and angularly to accommodate different tire types, patterns, and sizes. This dynamic configuration allows the same closing crown and upper plate to reliably serve multiple vulcanization applications without permanent adaptation to a single mold type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a closing crown and upper plate that can universally accommodate different numbers and positions of sectors through adjustable coupling means. The system serves multiple functions: it can adapt to various tire types, maintain reliable sealing through the conical surface engagement, and support different sector configurations without requiring dedicated hardware for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the sectors are made movable radially with adjustable coupling means, then the adaptability to different tire types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the closing crown into multiple adjustable coupling means, each independently positionable along the radial direction. This segmentation allows each coupling element to be individually adjusted to match the specific angular position and radial distance of sectors for different tire configurations, enabling adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable coupling means introduce controlled dynamics to the system. The coupling elements can be positioned radially along the conical surface of the closing crown and locked at specific locations, providing the necessary movement and adjustment capability while maintaining structural integrity during operation. This dynamic adjustability achieves adaptability with manageable complexity through standardized adjustment mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the guide parts on the closure ring are made adjustable, then the ease of alignment and adaptability are improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide parts on the closure ring are made adjustable along the radial direction, allowing dynamic repositioning to facilitate easy alignment with sectors for different tire types. This adjustability enables operators to quickly adapt the guide parts to various configurations without requiring custom-machined components for each application, thereby improving ease of operation while controlling manufacturing costs through standardized adjustable mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the device to be adapted for different tire types and patterns, reducing manufacturing costs and expanding its applicability to various tire sizes and patterns while maintaining efficient thermal transfer and kinematic balance.
Implementation Method 1
The radial movement of the sectors is carried out by a conical closing ring set in motion by the upper platen of the press. The closure ring comprises, on its radially internal face, several T-shaped parts, each being caused to slide in a channel having an inclined guide surface of corresponding shape formed on the radially external surface of a mold sector.
Data Source
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AI summary
Vulcanizing device (1) with radially mobile segments, comprising: • a bottom plate (3) supporting a bottom shell (2) for moulding a tyre sidewall, • an axially mobile top plate (5) supporting a top shell (4) for moulding a tyre sidewall, • an axially mobile closure ring (7) comprising an inclined inner face, • a plurality of adjacent segments (10) arranged circumferentially and the inner radial faces of which comprise mould linings (11) for moulding the tread of the tyre and the inclined outer radial faces (14) of which are able to collaborate with • first means (30) of coupling to the closure ring (7) which are produced in such a way that the axial movements of the closure ring (7) entail a radial movement of the segments (10) and • second means (20) of coupling the segments (10) to the top plate (5) which are able to connect the segments (10) to the top plate (5) and allow them to move radially, • said second means (20) of coupling being adjustable to fit the circumference of the top plate (5).