Tire Spreader Axial Bead Displacement for Repair Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preparing the inside surface of a tire for repair, such as applying a patch, are challenging due to the need for manual material removal, which can be difficult in smaller tires where there is insufficient clearance for tools, necessitating the development of automated solutions for tire surface preparation.
Innovation Solution
A tire spreader is used to increase the distance between opposing tire beads, allowing access for material removal tools by translating a bead engaging portion in an axial direction, thereby creating a widened interior cavity for efficient tool access and tire surface preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual material removal tools are used inside the tire, then tire surface preparation can be performed, but sufficient clearance is not available in smaller tires
Solution Approach 1:
The tire spreader dynamically adjusts the distance between opposing beads by translating the bead engaging portion in an axial direction, creating a variable interior cavity opening that can be widened to accommodate material removal tools
Solution Approach 2:
The solution addresses the two-dimensional clearance problem by introducing an axial dimension for bead separation, thereby creating additional working space within the tire's interior cavity
2Productivity
If automated translation of bead engaging portion is implemented, then tire surface preparation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical translation mechanisms with a simpler system that uses elastic recovery of the bead engaging portion to automatically return to its initial position after spreading the beads
Solution Approach 2:
The bead engaging portion automatically returns to its initial position through elastic recovery without requiring complex return mechanisms, making the system self-service and reducing overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns methods and apparatus for spreading beads in a tire. Particular embodiments of such methods include securing at least a portion of a first bead of the tire and positioning a tire spreader within the central opening of the tire, the tire spreader having a bead engaging portion for engaging a portion of a second bead generally opposite the secured portion of the first bead. Such methods may further include automatically translating the bead engaging portion of the tire spreader generally in an axial direction of the tire to displace the engaged portion of the second bead a desired distance to increase the distance between the opposing beads to form a widened interior cavity opening.