Non-pneumatic Tire Spoke Manufacturing via Segmented Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manufacturing spokes for non-pneumatic tires with three or more components are not economically feasible and lack robustness, limiting their variation and improvement.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a pair of forms where components are arranged and folded using a pick and place device, then cured under heat and pressure in a mold to create a robust spoke structure for non-pneumatic tires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If current methods are used to manufacture spokes with three or more components, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but economic feasibility and robustness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The spoke is divided into multiple separate components (first component, second component, third component) that are manufactured independently and then assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized separately for strength and durability, improving overall robustness while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular production.
Solution Approach 2:
The first, second, and third components are assembled into a complete spoke structure before the curing process. This preliminary assembly ensures proper alignment and structural integrity are achieved prior to finalization, enhancing robustness without complicating the manufacturing process.
2Strength
If components are assembled before curing, then structural integrity is improved, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spoke construction is segmented into distinct components that can be independently positioned and assembled on the form. This segmentation simplifies the assembly process by allowing components to be placed separately rather than handling a complete complex structure, reducing process complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
A form is used as an intermediary device to hold and position the first, second, and third components during assembly and transport. This intermediary structure simplifies the process by providing a stable platform for component arrangement, reducing the complexity of direct manual assembly while ensuring proper structural alignment.
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 method enables the efficient and robust construction of non-pneumatic tire spokes with multiple components, improving their economic feasibility and structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
A pick and place device transports the first, second, and third components from the first form onto the second form
Implementation Method 2
a press then presses the first half of the mold thereon and locks the mold halves together
Implementation Method 3
the locked mold is then transferred to an oven area and heated with the mold locked so that heat and pressure are applied to cure the spoke
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A method of manufacturing a spoke (12) for a non-pneumatic tire is provided that involves providing a first form (14) and a second form (16), where first and second components (18, 20) of the spoke are placed on the first form (14). A third component (22) of the spoke is placed on the second form (16). The first and second components are transferred to the second form (16). The first component, the second component, and the third component are transferred from the second form to a mold (48). Further, the first component, the second component, and the third component have heat and pressure applied thereto for curing.