Tire Grinding Assembly with Independent Axial and Radial Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire uniformity machines face inaccuracies and inefficiencies in material removal due to bulky motor setups and complex linkage systems, which hinder precise positioning and simultaneous operation of grindstones, leading to extended processing times and potential machine downtime.
Innovation Solution
A grinding assembly with independently movable upper and lower sections, equipped with radial and axial positioning systems, allows for precise and simultaneous contact of dual grindstones with the tire, utilizing direct motor-driven grindstones and automated actuators for dynamic movement and force adjustment to achieve accurate tire profiling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single grindstone with motor and gear box arrangement is used, then the grinding function is provided, but the housing projects extensively preventing linear movement and positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The grinding system is divided into separate components: the motor is separated from the grindstone assembly, and the positioning function is separated from the grinding function. This allows the grindstone to be positioned linearly without the motor housing interference, while the motor can be located elsewhere in the machine structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A pivotable arm with linkage mechanism serves as an intermediary between the fixed motor and the movable grindstone. This intermediary allows the grindstone to achieve precise linear positioning and angular adjustment independent of the motor position, resolving the conflict between motor housing constraints and grinding precision requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple linkages are used to pivot the grindstone, then positioning flexibility is improved, but machining tolerances compound errors and reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The complex multi-linkage pivot mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simplified direct positioning system. The grindstone assembly uses independent linear actuators for radial and axial movement, eliminating the error-prone linkage chain while maintaining positioning flexibility through direct electronic control.
Solution Approach 2:
Mechanical linkage systems are replaced with direct motor-driven linear positioning mechanisms. This substitution eliminates cumulative machining errors from multiple linkages while providing more reliable and repeatable positioning through direct drive motors with feedback control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dual grindstones are provided with linkage system, then corrective grinding capability is improved, but simultaneous contact ability is eliminated and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The dual grindstone system is made dynamically controllable with independent positioning for each grindstone. Both grindstones can be positioned and actuated simultaneously or sequentially as needed, allowing corrective grinding operations to be performed faster without the constraints of rigid linkage mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The leading grindstone performs preliminary material removal, and the trailing grindstone is pre-positioned to immediately follow for corrective grinding. With independent positioning systems, both grindstones can be precisely coordinated to work in sequence or simultaneously, eliminating the delays caused by linkage errors and machine repositioning.
4Area of stationary object
If pivotable arm is used to position grindstone, then area utilization is improved, but positioning accuracy deteriorates due to arc travel
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system transitions from a single rotational degree of freedom (pivotable arm) to a two-dimensional positioning system with independent radial and axial movement. This allows the grindstone to reach the same operational positions while maintaining precise linear alignment with the tire, eliminating the arc-travel positioning errors.
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 solution enables faster, more accurate, and repeatable material removal, improving tire uniformity and reducing processing time by eliminating the need for complex linkages and allowing for dynamic grinding, thus enhancing the tire profiling process.
Implementation Method 1
a grinding assembly (10) supported proximate to the tire (T) and adapted to remove material from the tire (T)
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
A grinding assembly (10) contacts a tire (T) supported by a frame (F) relative to the tire. The grinding assembly includes at least one section, and an axial positioning assembly supporting the at least one section (10A,10B). The axial positioning assembly enables the at least one section to be axially repositioned relative to the tire. The at least one section includes a grinding head (24), where the grinding head includes a grindstone rotatably supported thereon, the grindstone having rounded shoulders at its axial extremities. The grinding assembly further includes a radial positioning assembly (18) supporting the grinding head for radial movement with respect to the tire.