Non-Pneumatic Tire Curing Shoe Assembly for Uniform Vulcanization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tire manufacturing processes are inadequate for producing non-pneumatic tires, as they do not effectively accommodate the unique structural arrangements of non-pneumatic tires, limiting their applicability and use.
Innovation Solution
A mold assembly and method that utilize a curing shoe assembly with actuation members to displace curing shoes laterally, applying pressure and heat to less-than-fully-cured non-pneumatic tire assemblies, transitioning them into fully-cured non-pneumatic tires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional tire manufacturing processes are used, then pneumatic tires can be produced effectively, but non-pneumatic tires cannot be manufactured due to incompatible structural arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The mold assembly is divided into multiple die segments that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each die segment can be customized to accommodate different tire structures, allowing the same mold assembly to manufacture both pneumatic and non-pneumatic tires effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The mold assembly is designed with universal features including adjustable die segments, variable curing bladder configurations, and adaptable support structures that can accommodate both pneumatic and non-pneumatic tire manufacturing, making the equipment multi-functional and highly adaptable.
2Strength
If a curing bladder is inflated to apply pressure during curing, then the tire material can be vulcanized effectively, but the pressure distribution may be uneven for non-pneumatic tire structures
Solution Approach 1:
The curing system uses multiple curing bladders positioned at different locations within the mold assembly, allowing independent pressure application to different regions of the tire. This segmented approach ensures uniform pressure distribution across the entire tire structure during vulcanization.
Solution Approach 2:
The mold assembly incorporates pressure sensors and control systems that monitor pressure distribution during curing and provide feedback to adjust bladder inflation levels, ensuring uniform pressure application and consistent vulcanization quality across the tire structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If die segments are positioned in abutting engagement with the tread material, then the tread pattern can be formed, but the mold assembly cannot accommodate the unique structural arrangements of non-pneumatic tires
Solution Approach 1:
The mold assembly comprises multiple removable and reconfigurable die segments that can be arranged in different configurations. These segmented dies can be positioned to form various tread patterns while also accommodating the unique structural arrangements of non-pneumatic tires through adjustable positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The die segments are designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing them to be adjusted and reconfigured between different tire manufacturing runs. This dynamic adaptability enables the same die segments to produce different tread patterns and accommodate various tire structures effectively.
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 method and mold assembly efficiently cure non-pneumatic tires by ensuring uniform pressure and heat distribution, resulting in fully-cured tires with defined tread patterns and structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the curing bladder is inflated such that the curing bladder extends into the tire chamber of the uncured tire assembly in abutting engagement with the inner liner. While under pressure from the mold assembly and the inflated curing bladder
Implementation Method 2
the tire curing press introduces heat to the uncured tire assembly which vulcanizes or otherwise crosslinks the uncured tire material to form a completed tire
Data Source
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AI summary
Mold assemblies used for curing non-pneumatic tires include a mold section and curing shoe assemblies supported on the mold section. The curing shoe assemblies include a first actuation member supported on the mold section in radially-offset alignment with a mold axis. A second actuation member is supported for axial displacement relative to the first actuation member. First and second curing shoes are spaced laterally from the first and second actuation members. The first and second curing shoes are operatively connected to the first and second actuation members such that movement of the first and second actuation members toward one another displaces the first and second curing shoes laterally away from one another. In some cases, movement of the first and second actuation members away from one another displaces the first and second curing shoes laterally toward one another. Methods of manufacturing a non-pneumatic tire are also included.