Elastomeric Strip Forming Nozzle with Curved Roller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for forming tire components from elastomeric sheets face issues such as slippage and non-uniformity due to high pressure and temperature during vulcanization, and the use of splices contributes to tire non-uniformity, while continuous strip lamination methods aim to address these but can result in scorching if residence time is too long.
Innovation Solution
A novel apparatus and method involving a nozzle with a shaped die surface cooperating with a curved roller to form a V-shaped outlet, where the elastomeric material is pumped through a decreasing area channel, reducing pressure and temperature by allowing the roller to pull the material through the nozzle, forming a continuous strip with lower extrusion temperatures and pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the rubber is extruded through a small exit area nozzle, then the rubber strip can be formed into the desired shape, but the pressure and temperature in the system increase excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber is pre-heated and softened before entering the nozzle, allowing it to be extruded through a larger exit area without excessive pressure buildup. The roller applies pressure and heat to the rubber strip as it passes through the nozzle, ensuring proper shaping while controlling the temperature and pressure levels throughout the process
2Manufacturing precision
If the residence time of rubber through the system is extended, then the rubber can be properly formed, but the rubber may be scorched due to excessive temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies heat and pressure locally at specific points along the rubber strip formation process rather than uniformly throughout. The roller applies controlled pressure and heat only where needed, and the nozzle is designed to maintain optimal temperature zones, allowing sufficient residence time for proper formation without causing scorching
3Length of moving object
If elastomeric sheets are cut and spliced to form continuous strips, then the desired length can be achieved, but slippage occurs during vulcanization due to tension and compression
Solution Approach 1:
The system forms a continuous rubber strip without splices by extruding the rubber continuously through the nozzle and rolling it onto the tire building drum. This eliminates the need to cut and join separate sheets, removing the weak points that cause slippage during vulcanization while maintaining the required length
4Manufacturing precision
If the nozzle exit area is reduced to form precise strip shapes, then manufacturing precision improves, but the system pressure and temperature increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber is pre-conditioned with heat and pressure before entering the nozzle, making it more pliable and easier to shape. This allows the use of a larger nozzle exit area while still achieving the desired strip shape precision, thereby reducing the system pressure required
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
This approach reduces slippage and non-uniformity by maintaining lower system temperatures and pressures, allowing for efficient formation of continuous tire components with reduced stretch and scorching, enabling flexible manufacturing and improved tire uniformity.
Implementation Method 1
extruding the molten elastomeric material through the outlet of the nozzle forming a shaped strip
Implementation Method 2
pumping an elastomeric material through the nozzle, extruding the molten elastomeric material through the outlet of the nozzle forming a shaped strip
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for applying a strip of elastomeric material to a surface is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a nozzle (210) having an inlet (202) in fluid communication with a pumping means, the nozzle (210) further having an upper surface and a lower surface, wherein the lower surface has a curved shape for mating engagement with an outer surface of a rotatable roller (300), the lower surface further having an opening (231) which is configured to be positioned onto the roller outer surface. Also, a method of forming a strip of elastomeric material is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: pumping an elastomeric material through a nozzle (210), positioning an opening of the nozzle (210) in mating engagement with a rotatable roller (300), rotating the roller (300) so that the rotation of the roller (300) pulls the elastomeric material through the outlet of the nozzle (210), and forming a strip.