Green Tire Carrier Layout for Isolated Hexagonal Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In tire manufacturing processes, there is a need for efficient movement and storage of partially processed tires that require isolation to prevent adhesion and aging, while also allowing for tracking, sorting, and optimal stacking to maximize factory space usage.
Innovation Solution
A tire tote with a hexagonal packing pattern and lifting fittings, combined with a mobile robotic guided vehicle and overhead retrieval system, enables efficient storage, transportation, and processing of green tires by maintaining isolation, tracking, and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If uncured tires are stored temporarily in intermediate state, then production process continuity is improved, but tires may touch each other causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system divides the storage space into individual compartments or positions where each tire is isolated from others. The carrier structure includes separate support elements that create physical separation between adjacent tires, preventing contact while maintaining organized storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier acts as an intermediary device between the tire and the storage surface. It provides a structured platform with individual support points that elevate and separate each tire, preventing direct contact between tires while enabling stable storage and transport.
2Productivity
If individual units are tracked and sorted by properties, then production efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses visual identification methods such as colored markers, tags, or coded patterns on the tires or their carriers to indicate different properties, sizes, or processing stages. This allows quick visual sorting and tracking without complex electronic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier itself serves as a physical copy or representation of the tire's identification information. Each carrier may have unique identifying features or codes that replicate the tire's properties, enabling tracking and sorting through the carrier rather than directly through the tire.
3Ease of operation
If physical orientation of objects is controlled, then subsequent processing is facilitated, but handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier structure incorporates asymmetric features such as oriented support legs, directional markings, or non-uniform geometry that naturally guide the tire into the correct orientation during placement. This passive orientation control eliminates the need for active orientation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier is designed with pre-configured support elements and geometric features that automatically orient the tire correctly during the loading process. The structure itself performs the orientation function beforehand, eliminating the need for separate orientation control mechanisms during subsequent handling.
4Area of stationary object
If carrier is designed for efficient stacking in hexagonal pattern, then space utilization is improved, but lifting access becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier design integrates multiple functions: it provides structural support for stacking, incorporates identification features for tracking, includes built-in lifting mechanisms, and maintains orientation control. The lifting lugs serve both as structural reinforcement and as engagement points for lifting devices, eliminating the need for separate lifting components.
Data Source
AI summary
A manufacturing facility includes a storage facility and a production facility. Workpieces are located in the storage facility in temporary storage accommodations, and are moved between the storage facility and stations in the production facility by mobile carrier units. The temporary storage accommodations may be units having a generally circular lading envelope, and an hexagonal optimal packing density. The mobile carrier units may be automated guided vehicles and may include self-navigating software, and interactive communication with other guided vehicles to permit suitable routes to be chosen, or to permit obstacles to be avoided. The facility may include a workpiece retrieval apparatus used for transferring workpieces between the storage accommodations and the automated guided vehicles, or to other locations. The workpiece retrieval apparatus may be mounted on a bridge, and may include a multi-element raising and lowering array that is biased to oppose torsional deflection of the lifting member.