Expandable Backing Ring for Segmented Tire Mold Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and inventory burden of maintaining different sizes of backing rings for segmented tire molds, which are required for various tire sizes, lead to increased production and storage costs for tire manufacturers due to the need to control mold segment expansion during vulcanization.
Innovation Solution
A mold device with a segmented tire mold and an expansion control device, such as a cable or ring, that applies a radially inward force to prevent mold segment expansion during vulcanization, utilizing materials like metal or composite materials for sufficient tensile strength and resistance to elevated temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional backing rings are used for each tire size, then mold segment expansion is controlled during vulcanization, but manufacturing costs and inventory requirements increase proportionally with the number of tire sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single expandable backing ring structure that can adapt to multiple tire sizes through controlled expansion. The backing ring includes segments that can radially expand outward to accommodate different tire dimensions, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-size backing rings while maintaining proper mold segment support during vulcanization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static fixed-size backing rings to a dynamic expandable backing ring. The backing ring can change its dimensions during operation through controlled radial expansion of its segments, allowing it to adapt to different tire sizes and maintain effectiveness across multiple applications
2Manufacturing precision
If fixed-size backing rings are manufactured for each tire size, then precise fit is achieved, but production costs increase due to multiple sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by creating a backing ring that transitions from a compact stored state to an expanded operational state. This dynamic capability allows a single backing ring design to achieve precise fit for multiple tire sizes, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple fixed-size variants while maintaining manufacturing precision
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sizes of backing rings are maintained in inventory, then appropriate size is available for each tire size, but storage costs and inventory burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single expandable backing ring that serves multiple tire sizes, replacing the need for multiple dedicated backing rings. This universal design maintains adaptability across different tire dimensions while significantly reducing the quantity of inventory required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies nesting by allowing the expandable backing ring segments to collapse into a compact configuration for storage and transport, similar to nested dolls. This enables the backing ring to occupy minimal space in inventory while still providing the functionality of multiple sizes when expanded
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
Reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for multiple backing ring sizes, effectively controlling mold segment expansion and maintaining mold integrity during the vulcanization process, while allowing for looser manufacturing tolerances and reduced inventory requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the expansion control device applies a force radially inwardly to the mold segments
Data Source
AI summary
A segmented tire mold includes a device for controlling the expansion of the mold segments during the vulcanization of a tire. The expansion control device may be a cable or a ring that is wrapped around the outer circumference of the segmented tire mold and placed into tension in order to retain the mold segments in the proper position while the tire is vulcanized.