Tire Moulding Vent Slot Laser Production
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire molding processes result in gas evacuation methods that create unsightly nubs on the tire surface due to rubber flowing into vent openings, affecting aesthetics until the tire has been driven for a certain number of kilometers.
Innovation Solution
A method for producing a molding element with ventilation means comprising a narrow slot on the molding surface and a larger opening on the external surface, where the slot is produced by laser and the larger opening is machined first to prevent obstruction, allowing efficient air evacuation without surface imperfections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If small holes are used for gas evacuation, then gas evacuation effectiveness is improved, but pins are formed on the tire surface affecting aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The venting means is divided into two distinct parts: a first part (narrow slot) opening onto the molding surface and a second part (wider opening) opening onto the external surface. This segmentation allows the narrow slot to effectively evacuate gas while the wider external opening prevents rubber flow and pin formation, resolving the contradiction between evacuation effectiveness and surface aesthetics.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the venting means have different widths tailored to their specific functions: the first part has a narrow width (0.03-0.07mm) optimized for gas evacuation from the molding surface, while the second part has a wider width (1-5mm) optimized for preventing rubber intrusion and ensuring aesthetic appearance. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by optimizing each section for its specific role.
2Ease of manufacture
If the first part is produced before the second part, then manufacturing sequence is simplified, but the first part is obstructed by debris from machining the second part
Solution Approach 1:
The second part (wider opening) is produced by machining before the first part (narrow slot) is produced by laser. This preliminary action sequence ensures that any debris or dust generated during machining of the second part cannot obstruct the subsequently created narrow first part, as the first part is formed after the machining operations are complete. This resolves the contradiction by optimizing the manufacturing sequence to prevent obstruction while maintaining functionality.
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
Ensures effective gas evacuation during tire molding without forming pins on the tire surface, maintaining aesthetics and ensuring functional ventilation means.
Implementation Method 1
a step of producing the first part by laser in the molding element
Data Source
Figure 1a~2
AI summary
Method for producing a moulding element (1) designed to be assembled in a mould for moulding a tyre, said moulding element (1) comprising a moulding surface (2), an external surface (3), venting means (4) comprising a first portion (5) having a width of between 0.03 mm and 0.07 mm and having a depth P1 of less than or equal to 3 mm, said first portion leading into the moulding surface (2) and a second portion (6) in communication with the first portion (5) and leading into the external surface (3), said method comprising the following steps: i) a first step for producing the second portion (6) in the moulding element; ii) a second step for producing, by laser, the first portion (5) in the moulding element.