Composite Tyre Mould Lining Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for manufacturing lining strips for tire molds are limited to thicknesses of less than 2 millimeters, which is insufficient for larger tires, such as those for civil engineering machinery, and require expensive machining of solid blocks, limiting cost-effectiveness and tool passage.

Innovation Solution

A composite lining element comprising two separate bodies assembled with a spacer or frame to create an interior space, allowing for adjustable thickness and economical production through cold processing methods, with optional filling materials to prevent insulation and deformation issues.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If lining strips are manufactured by cutting and stamping or forging a sheet of metal, then the manufacturing cost is low and the process is simple, but the thickness is limited to 2 millimeters or less

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing cost and process simplicityVSAvoidlining strip thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The lining strip is divided into multiple separate bodies (first body and second body) that are assembled together. Each body can be manufactured using low-cost stamping or forging processes, while the combination of multiple bodies achieves the required greater thickness for large tires.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Length of moving object

If trim strips are produced from the same material as the mold sector by machining a solid block, then the thickness can be greater, but the manufacturing cost becomes particularly expensive and the space between adjacent trim strips may be insufficient for tool passage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrim strip thicknessVSAvoidmanufacturing cost and tool accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of machining a solid block, the thick trim strip is segmented into multiple separate bodies that can be manufactured independently using cost-effective processes. These bodies are then assembled to achieve the required thickness, reducing manufacturing costs and improving tool accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A spacing means is introduced as an intermediary element between the first and second bodies. This spacing means not only maintains the required thickness but also provides sufficient space between adjacent trim strips for tool passage during manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Length of moving object

If a solid one-piece trim element is manufactured to achieve greater thickness, then the thickness requirement is met, but the manufacturing complexity increases and superfluous solid areas are created

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrim element thicknessVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity and material efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trim element is segmented into multiple separate bodies that can be manufactured using simple low-cost processes. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex solid block machining and removes superfluous solid areas, as each body can be optimized for its specific function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The solution transitions from a one-dimensional solid block approach to a multi-layered assembly approach. By stacking multiple thinner bodies with spacing means between them, the required thickness is achieved through dimensional composition rather than solid material removal.

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

Data Source

PatentEP3390028B1Sipes for lining a tyre mould and associated manufacturing method
Publication Date: 2019.12.04 MICHELIN & CO (CIE GEN DES ESTAB MICHELIN)
  • EP3390028B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3390028B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3390028B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The composite lining element for a tyre mould comprises first and second bodies 12, 14 capable of at least partially moulding a same pattern in a tread of the tyre and each delimiting an outer moulding surface 12b, 14b and an opposing inner surface 12a, 14a. The composite lining element further comprises at least one assembly means 16 for assembling the first and second bodies. The inner surfaces 12a, 14 of said bodies are held in a separated position at least locally by said assembly means, providing an inner space 22.