Automated Loader for Tire Casing Mounting and Dismounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire retreading processes are inefficient due to manual operation, requiring operators to manually mount and dismount tire casings on expandable rim hubs, leading to reduced productivity and increased downtime at retreading stations.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for automatically mounting and dismounting tire casings on an expandable rim hub using a loader device with a support pedestal, support carriage, and loader actuator, allowing for automated loading and unloading sequences controlled by a control unit, enabling operators to pre-stage casings and move to other tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation is used for mounting and dismounting tire casings, then operators can control the process, but productivity is reduced and downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The loader device autonomously performs mounting and dismounting operations without requiring operator intervention at the retreading station. The system uses sensors to detect tire casing positions and automatically executes the loading sequence, allowing the station to service itself and eliminating idle time between operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The loader device pre-positions tire casings on the conveyor system before they reach the retreading station. By preparing casings in advance and having them ready for immediate loading, the system eliminates waiting time and ensures continuous operation at the retreading station.
2Ease of operation
If operators are assigned to buffing stations for manual mounting, then they can handle tire casings, but they are limited in ability to move to other processing areas
Solution Approach 1:
The automated loader device performs mounting and dismounting operations independently, freeing operators from stationary assignments at retreading stations. Operators can now move between different processing areas to perform other tasks, improving overall facility productivity while the loader handles tire casing operations autonomously.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated buffer is used for tread removal, then buffing consistency is improved, but operator assistance is still required for mounting and unloading
Solution Approach 1:
The loader device autonomously handles mounting and dismounting operations, eliminating the need for operator assistance during these time-consuming tasks. The system detects tire casing positions using sensors and automatically executes loading sequences, reducing downtime while maintaining the precision benefits of automated buffing.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated loader device enables continuous operation by eliminating idle time between buffing operations. While one tire casing is being buffed, the loader simultaneously prepares and positions the next casing, ensuring that the automated buffer operates continuously without interruptions for manual mounting and unloading.
Data Source
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AI summary
A loader device includes a support pedestal movable over a range of longitudinal travel along a longitudinal axis, a support carriage movably mounted to the support pedestal, a loader actuator, and a dismount actuator. The support carriage is movable over a range of vertical travel along a normal axis, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The support carriage has a support arm adapted to support a tire casing. The loader actuator and dismount actuator are respectively adapted to selectively move: (1) at least a portion of a tire casing supported upon the support carriage in a loading direction along the longitudinal axis off of the support arm onto the expandable rim hub and (2) at least a portion of a tire casing supported upon the expandable rim hub in an opposing unloading direction off of the expandable rim hub and onto the support arm of the loader device.