Automated Noise Reducing Element Application on Vehicle Tires
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual application of noise-reducing elements to vehicle tires is inefficient, requiring operator attention and resulting in potential adhesive unevenness and reduced noise attenuation due to manual handling and the need for protective films, which complicates automation.
Innovation Solution
An automated process and apparatus apply adhesive material to noise-reducing elements without protective films, using conveyor belts and robotized arms to transfer and position them accurately on the tire, ensuring consistent application and increased productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual application of noise-reducing elements is used, then operator attention can ensure proper placement, but productivity is reduced and adhesive unevenness occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical application with an automated system comprising a conveyor belt for transporting noise-reducing elements, a robotic manipulator for precise positioning, and an adhesive application device. This automation eliminates operator variability in adhesive distribution while maintaining high application speed through continuous conveyor operation and robotic precision.
2Reliability
If protective films are used on noise-reducing elements, then adhesive contamination is prevented, but automation is complicated and handling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the protective film from the noise-reducing element. Instead of using films that require manual removal and complicate automation, the system directly applies adhesive to the noise-reducing element surface through the automated robotic system, simplifying the overall process while maintaining reliability through controlled adhesive application.
3Productivity
If automated application is implemented, then productivity increases, but manufacturing precision may deteriorate without proper control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback control through sensors that monitor the position of noise-reducing elements on the conveyor belt and the adhesive application process. The robotic manipulator receives position feedback to precisely place each element, while the adhesive application device adjusts based on detected variations, ensuring uniform adhesive distribution throughout high-speed automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms where the conveyor belt speed, robotic manipulator positioning, and adhesive application rate are continuously adjusted based on real-time process conditions. This dynamic control maintains manufacturing precision despite variations in material properties or environmental conditions during high-speed production.
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
The automated system enables precise and efficient application of noise-reducing elements on vehicle tires, enhancing productivity and maintaining adhesive distribution for effective noise attenuation throughout the tire's life.
Implementation Method 1
a suction device (85) capable to be selectively activated to exert on said noise reducing element (100) a suction force sufficient to hold said noise reducing element (100) in position on the first conveyor belt (10)
Implementation Method 2
applying a layer of adhesive material (50a) onto a first surface (10a) of the noise reducing element (100)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention describes a process and an apparatus for automatically applying a noise reducing element (100) to a tyre for vehicle wheels.The process comprises: a) providing a noise reducing element (100); b) providing an adhesive material (50a); c) guiding said noise reducing element (100) according to a predetermined direction; d) during said guiding, applying said adhesive material (50a) onto a first surface of said noise reducing element (100); e) manipulating said noise reducing element (100) by interacting with at least one second surface of said noise reducing element (100) different from said first surface on which said adhesive material (50a) has been applied; f) positioning said noise reducing element (100) in a predetermined position on a radially inner surface (501) of said tyre (500), bringing said first surface into contact with said radially inner surface (501).