Envelope Spreader Linkage for Retreaded Tire Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The retreading process is hindered by systems that impede the travel path of retreaded tire assemblies during the placement within a flexible rubber envelope, requiring detours or manual movement of the system, which slows down the process.
Innovation Solution
An envelope spreader system comprising a chassis, actuator, and linkage assembly that operates between first and second positions, allowing the retreaded tire assembly to pass through without interfering with its travel path and enabling bi-directional movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional envelope placement system is used, then the retreaded tire assembly can be placed within the flexible rubber envelope, but the system impedes the travel path requiring detours or manual movement which slows down the process
Solution Approach 1:
The envelope spreader system employs a movable linkage assembly that can dynamically transition between a first position (retracted from travel path) and a second position (extended into travel path for envelope placement). This dynamic positioning eliminates the need for detours or manual system movement, maintaining continuous tire assembly flow while enabling envelope placement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage assembly extends in a direction transverse to the travel path direction, utilizing a perpendicular dimension to enable envelope placement without obstructing the primary longitudinal travel path. This dimensional approach allows the tire assembly to pass through the system continuously while the envelope is placed from the side.
2Ease of manufacture
If the system requires manual movement to and from the travel path, then envelope placement can be performed, but constant positioning needs slow down the retreading process
Solution Approach 1:
The envelope spreader system is self-positioning through its actuator-operated linkage assembly that automatically transitions between retracted and extended positions based on operational needs. This eliminates manual intervention for system positioning and prevents time loss associated with constant setup and breakdown of the envelope placement mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage assembly remains in the retracted position during tire assembly transport, then extends only when needed for envelope placement, and immediately retracts afterward. This continuous cycle of selective extension and retraction maintains uninterrupted tire assembly flow through the system while performing envelope placement operations only when required.
Data Source
AI summary
An envelope spreader system includes a chassis having an opening to receive a tire assembly, a primary link including a single elongated member rotatably coupled to the chassis at a first fixed pivot point and extending into the opening from a primary link first end to a primary link second end, a first engaging member coupled to the primary link second end and configured to engage a tire envelope at a location corresponding to the location of the primary link second end, a secondary link including a single elongated member rotatably coupled to the chassis at a second fixed pivot point and extending into the opening from a secondary link first end to a secondary link second end, and a second engaging member coupled to the secondary link second end and configured to engage the tire envelope at a location corresponding to the location of the secondary link second end.