Segmented Tread Splice Mold for Precise Retread Pattern Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for retreading tires face challenges in accurately cutting tire tread lengths to match the tread pattern, leading to dimensional variability, increased waste, and reduced service life due to manual intervention and variability in tread measurements.
Innovation Solution
A mold assembly composed of multiple segments with end segments of shorter length, allowing for precise cutting of preformed treads to optimize the tread pattern alignment and reduce waste, is used to form a tire tread, which can be assembled end-to-end to form a unitary mold for consistent and durable splicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual measurement and cutting methods are used for tire tread, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to dimensional variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual measurement and cutting operations with an automated computer-controlled cutting system. The system uses sensors to detect tread pattern features and a computer-controlled blade to automatically cut the tread at precise locations, eliminating manual intervention while achieving high manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting system automatically determines cut locations by detecting tread pattern features itself, without requiring manual measurement or external guidance. The system self-regulates the cutting process based on real-time detection of the tread design, achieving both ease of operation and high precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated cutting systems are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting system is designed to handle multiple tread patterns and cutting requirements using a single integrated platform. The computer-controlled system can adapt to different tread designs through software configuration rather than requiring separate specialized equipment for each pattern type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer control system as an intermediary between the detection sensors and the cutting blade. This intermediary processes the detected tread pattern information and translates it into precise cutting commands, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining high precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If tread is cut to match pattern precisely, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of substance increases due to waste from trimming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the tread pattern and pre-calculates the optimal cut locations before actually cutting. By detecting the tread design features in advance and planning the cut paths accordingly, the system minimizes material waste while ensuring precise pattern matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts cutting parameters such as blade position, cutting depth, and cut timing based on the detected tread pattern characteristics. This allows the system to optimize each cut to match the specific pattern requirements while minimizing unnecessary material removal.
Data Source
AI summary
A mold for molding a tire tread comprises a plurality of mold segments. Each of the plurality of mold segments includes an integer number of tread pitch repetitions. The plurality of mold segments are structured to be coupled to each other end-to-end so as to form the mold such that the mold includes an integer number of tread pitches. The mold also includes at least one mold end segment positioned on at least one end of the mold and has a mold end segment length shorter than a length of each of the plurality of mold segments.