Segmented Curing Ring for Flat NPT Elastomer Bands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional manufacturing techniques for non-pneumatic tires (NPTs) fail to produce elastomer bands with a flat inner surface, as they typically result in a curved surface due to the use of pneumatic tire molding technology, which is not suitable for NPTs requiring a flat inner interface for proper spoke attachment and performance.
Innovation Solution
A segmented curing ring assembly is used within a tire mold, comprising a base plate with radial channels and inner and outer segments that translate to exert pressure on the elastomer band, allowing for a flat inner surface and a tread pattern on the outer surface, utilizing pneumatic tire curing equipment to adapt existing technology for NPT manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If pneumatic tire molding technology is used to manufacture elastomer bands, then the manufacturing cost is reduced by utilizing existing equipment, but the inner surface of the elastomer band becomes curved instead of flat
Solution Approach 1:
The mold is divided into multiple segments (first plurality of segments forming inner mold surface, second plurality of segments forming outer mold surface) that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows the inner mold surface to be configured for flat surface formation while the outer surface can accommodate tread patterns, resolving the contradiction between using existing pneumatic tire equipment and achieving NPT-specific flat inner surface requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The mold segments are made movable relative to each other, allowing dynamic adjustment of the mold cavity geometry. The segments can be positioned to create either flat or curved inner surfaces depending on the desired product configuration, enabling the same equipment to produce different surface geometries without requiring complete redesign
2Device complexity
If conventional pneumatic tire equipment is adapted for NPT manufacturing, then specialized equipment costs are reduced, but the structural requirements for flat inner interface are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented mold design enables a single piece of equipment to serve multiple functions: it can produce elastomer bands with flat inner surfaces for NPT applications while maintaining the capability to produce traditional pneumatic tire components. The mold segments can be reconfigured for different product requirements, making the equipment universal rather than specialized for one application only
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the mold cavity by adjusting segment positions and configurations. By modifying the mold parameters (segment arrangement, spacing, and orientation), the equipment can produce different surface geometries (flat or curved) to meet different structural requirements for spoke attachment and tire performance
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
This approach enables cost-effective production of NPTs with precise dimension control, improved tolerance, and reduced maintenance, as the segmented curing ring ensures a flat inner surface for elastomer bands, facilitating better spoke attachment and performance characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
exerting an outward pressure on an inner surface of the green elastomer band via the plurality of inner mold segments while exerting an inward pressure on an outer surface of the green elastomer band via the one or more outer mold segments
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The present disclosure is related to a curing ring (100) that can be utilized in a tire mold (700) to cure elastomer bands for NPTs or for tread band assemblies used in tire retreading. The elastomer band curing ring (100) comprises a plurality of plates (102) that are vertically oriented from a base (106), wherein the plurality of plates (102) are configured to translate across channels (104) along a radial direction and wherein the plurality of plates (102) are positioned adjacent to each other to form an inner molding surface that is substantially flat along an axial direction that is perpendicular to the radial direction. The tire mold (700) comprises a base plate (106) having a plurality of channels (104) oriented along a radial direction, a plurality of inner segments configured to engage an inner radius of the elastomer band (604), and a plurality of outer segments configured to engage an outer radius of the elastomer band (604). Also, a method for curing a green elastomer band is disclosed.