Tyre Moulding Element with Segmented Cutting Means
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for manufacturing tire treads with a covering layer on grooves face challenges such as shear force-induced cracks, complexity in insert matching, and irregular shape/thickness, which compromise the precision and performance of the tire tread.
Innovation Solution
A molding element with a blade and cutting means that extends along a direction of extension, featuring alternations of peaks and valleys, capable of cutting a covering layer and guiding it into the groove, ensuring precise placement and reduced material presence on the tread surface, thereby improving the tire's performance on wet ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If inserts are shaped by cords from a vulcanization mold to cover groove walls, then a covering layer is formed on the tread, but the insert undergoes significant shear force that generates cracks and makes thickness control difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting means are positioned on the molding element to pre-cut the covering layer material before the molding process completes. This preliminary cutting action prevents the material from undergoing excessive shear deformation during shaping, thereby avoiding cracks and enabling precise thickness control of the final covering layer.
2Reliability
If inserts are shaped by cords to form a covering layer, then groove coverage is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex due to insert-cord matching requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting means are integrated directly onto the molding element, combining the cutting function with the molding function. This eliminates the need for separate insert preparation and matching steps, simplifying the manufacturing process while ensuring precise covering layer placement on the groove walls.
3Shape
If the blade molds a groove in the tread, then the groove shape is formed, but the covering layer material may remain on the tread surface reducing appearance quality
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting means is designed with multiple cutting edges or segments that work in conjunction with the blade. This segmentation allows the covering layer material to be precisely cut and guided into the groove while excess material is cleanly separated from the tread surface, improving appearance quality without compromising groove formation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4a
Figure 4b~4d
AI summary
The invention relates to a moulding element of a mould for moulding and curing a tread of a tyre. Said tread comprises a tread surface intended to make contact with the ground during the rotation of the tyre. The moulding element (1) comprises a moulding surface intended to mould part of the tread surface of the tyre and a blade (5), of length L and height Hc, intended to mould an incision or groove in the tread. The blade comprises a rounded end (8) extending along the length of the blade in a direction of extension X. The moulding element also comprises two cutting means (7) disposed on each side of the blade at a certain distance therefrom. One end of each cutting means includes alternating peaks (2) and troughs (4, 4a, 4b) extending along the direction of extension X. The distance of the peaks in relation to the moulding surface (3) is greater than or equal to the height Hc of the blade.