Pneumatic Tire Inner-Surface Indicators for Precise Layer Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing process of applying a sound absorbing member or sealant layer to the inner surface of a vulcanized pneumatic tire is time-consuming and inefficient due to the lack of indicators on the tire inner surface, which complicates accurate positioning.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatic tire with indicators such as protrusion or recess portions extending in the circumferential direction on the inner surface, allowing for precise application of sound absorbing members or sealant layers, and a method involving vulcanization using a bladder with corresponding features to form these indicators during tire manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If no indicator is provided on the tire inner surface, then the tire structure remains simple, but the time and effort required to apply sound absorbing member or sealant layer increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator is formed on the tire inner surface during the vulcanization process itself, before the sound absorbing member or sealant layer application. This preliminary formation of the indicator eliminates the need for separate marking operations and provides immediate guidance for subsequent material application, thereby improving productivity without adding complex post-processing steps
Solution Approach 2:
The bladder serves a dual function: it not only vulcanizes the tire but also forms the indicator on the inner surface through its own structural features (protrusions or recesses). This self-service approach allows the vulcanization tooling to simultaneously create the positioning reference, eliminating the need for separate indicator formation equipment and processes
2Manufacturing precision
If indicators are formed on the tire inner surface, then the positioning accuracy for sound absorbing member or sealant layer application improves, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bladder is designed with features that serve multiple purposes: it provides the vulcanization pressure and heat, shapes the tire, and simultaneously forms the indicator on the inner surface. This multi-functionality allows the same vulcanization tooling to create positioning references without requiring additional specialized equipment, thereby improving positioning accuracy while minimizing increases in manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator is formed only in specific localized areas on the tire inner surface where positioning is needed for sound absorbing member or sealant layer application. Rather than modifying the entire tire structure, the indicator creates minimal local features (protrusions or recesses) that provide precise positioning guidance without affecting the overall simplicity of the tire manufacturing process
3Measurement precision
If protrusion or recess portions are created on the inner surface, then the indicator becomes visible and usable for positioning, but the air permeability of the inner liner layer may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The inner liner layer is designed with porous characteristics that allow it to accommodate the indicator features (protrusions or recesses) without compromising its air permeability. The porous structure enables the material to maintain its breathability and moisture-wicking properties even when deformed by the indicator features, thus preserving reliability while achieving visible positioning markers
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusion or recess portions are designed with dimensions that provide sufficient visibility and positioning capability (excessive action for positioning) while being controlled in size and depth to minimize impact on air permeability. By optimizing the geometry of these features, the indicator achieves its positioning function without over-deforming the inner liner layer to the point of compromising its functional properties
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a pneumatic tire including an indicator made of a protrusion portion or a recess portion extending in a tire circumferential direction is formed on a tire inner surface. A sound absorbing member or a sealant layer is applied to the tire inner surface along the indicator.