Tyre Electronic Module Retreading with Vulcanization Shield

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for attaching electronic modules to tires either make them permanently fixed, preventing replacement, or use removable patches that are prone to detachment and exposure to contaminants, lacking effective protection during tire retreading.

Innovation Solution

A retreading method and system that involves removing the electronic module, covering the patch with a protective cover resistant to vulcanization, installing a new tread, vulcanizing the tire, and then reinserting the module, using a protective cover with a dovetail profile for secure and thermal insulation during the process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the electronic module is permanently fixed to the tire, then the attachment reliability is improved, but the module cannot be replaced or modified

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidmodule replaceability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic assembly is divided into separate components: the electronic module and the patch with housing. This segmentation allows the module to be easily removed and replaced while maintaining secure attachment through the patch housing structure, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patch housing is designed with a dynamic attachment mechanism that allows the electronic module to be securely fixed during operation but easily removed when needed. The housing includes features such as retaining clips or snap-fit connections that provide reliable attachment while enabling planned removal for replacement or modification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the electronic module is housed in a removable patch, then the module can be replaced, but the patch is prone to detachment and exposure to contaminants

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule replaceabilityVSAvoidattachment stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic module is nested within the patch housing, which itself is attached to the tire. This nested structure provides multiple levels of protection and secure attachment, preventing both module detachment and exposure to contaminants while maintaining replaceability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patch housing is constructed from flexible, contaminant-resistant material that forms a protective shell around the electronic module. This flexible housing maintains seal integrity while allowing for controlled removal and reinstallation of the module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Productivity

If the patch is exposed during tire retreading, then the retreading process can be performed, but the patch is damaged by heat and pressure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveretreading capabilityVSAvoidpatch integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Before the retreading process, the electronic module is removed from the patch housing. This preliminary action protects the patch from damage during vulcanization while still allowing the retreading to proceed. The housing remains attached to the tire but without the electronic module, preventing heat and pressure damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic module is extracted from the patch housing before retreading. This extraction removes the vulnerable component from the area subject to high heat and pressure during vulcanization, preserving patch integrity while enabling the retreading process to continue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Strength

If the patch is protected during retreading, then the patch integrity is maintained, but the protective measure must be simple and easy to install

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepatch integrityVSAvoidprotective measure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A simple protective cover or shield is used during retreading that can be easily installed and removed. This disposable or reusable protective element provides necessary protection during the vulcanization process without adding significant complexity to the retreading procedure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

A protective intermediary element is introduced between the patch and the retreading equipment/heat source. This intermediary provides the necessary protection during vulcanization while being simple enough to install and remove without complicating the overall retreading process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 allows for safe and repeatable retreading of tires with electronic modules, minimizing damage and exposure risks, while maintaining the module's functionality and extending the tire's life without compromising the patch's integrity.

Implementation Method 1

The lid provides good thermal insulation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

vulcanization of the tire with the new tread

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVulcanization: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentEP3706992B1Retreading method for a tyre comprising an electronic assembly
Publication Date: 2022.01.12 MICHELIN & CO (CIE GEN DES ESTAB MICHELIN)
  • EP3706992B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~5

AI summary

A retreading method for a tyre comprising an electronic assembly (1) provided with an electronic module, a rubber patch attached to an inner wall of the tyre, said patch comprising a housing suitable for accommodating an active part of the electronic module inside same, said method comprising the following steps: removing the electronic module from the patch acting as an attachment; fitting a vulcanisation-resistant protective cover (40) against the patch so as to cover the latter; fitting a new tread on the tyre; vulcanising the tyre with the new tread; removing the protective cover (40) from the patch; reinserting the electronic module into the rubber patch.