Vehicle Tyre Sidewall Code Application Cycle Time Reduction
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for applying visual codes, such as QR codes, to vehicle tires during production are costly and inefficient, particularly due to high cycle times associated with applying tire-specific information.
Innovation Solution
A method involving vulcanization with a mold segment to apply article-specific information on the tire's sidewall, followed by engraving tire-specific information using laser engraving on a composite QR code, significantly reducing cycle time by separating and optimizing the application of information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a complete QR code with all tire-specific information is engraved after vulcanization, then all necessary information is available, but the cycle time is significantly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the QR code application process into two segments: (1) during vulcanization, a mold segment applies the first visually visible code containing article-specific information (tire size, type, manufacturing date); (2) after vulcanization, a second code containing tire-specific information (serial number) is applied. This segmentation allows parallel processing of different information types, reducing the total cycle time while ensuring all necessary information is captured.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by applying the first code with article-specific information during the vulcanization process itself, using a mold segment that embosses or prints the code while the tire is being vulcanized. This preliminary application eliminates the need to wait for post-vulcanization processing for this portion of the information, significantly reducing the overall cycle time.
2Loss of information
If a high-resolution QR code with detailed information is applied, then comprehensive information is available, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the application of article-specific information with the existing vulcanization process by using a mold segment that applies the first code during vulcanization. This combines two operations (vulcanization and code application) into one, eliminating the need for separate high-cost equipment and processes, thereby reducing production costs while maintaining comprehensive information availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mold segment used during vulcanization is designed to serve multiple functions: it not only vulcanizes the tire but also applies the first visually visible code containing article-specific information. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated code application equipment, reducing capital investment and production costs.
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 approach reduces production costs and cycle times by allowing for efficient application of both article-specific and tire-specific information, enabling quick and easy reading of the QR code with a camera and software.
Implementation Method 1
vulcanizing the green tire with a vulcanizing device
Implementation Method 2
engraving the second visually visible code on an area of the outside of the vehicle tire
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
To provide a method for producing a vehicle tyre, with which method the production of vehicle tyres is improved, a method having the following steps is proposed: a) providing a non-vulcanized green tyre, b) vulcanizing the green tyre using a vulcanization apparatus, wherein the vulcanization apparatus comprises at least one mold segment by means of which a first visually visible code (5) is applied in the region of the sidewall of the vehicle tyre, wherein the code comprises a multiplicity of article-specific items of information for the produced vehicle tyre, c) removing the vulcanized vehicle tyre from the vulcanization apparatus, d) providing the vulcanized vehicle tyre to an apparatus for engraving a second visually visible code (6), e) engraving the second visually visible code onto a region of the outer side of the vehicle tyre, wherein the second visually visible code comprises a multiplicity of tyre-specific items of information for the produced vehicle tyre, wherein the tyre-specific items of information differ for each produced vehicle tyre, f) finishing the vehicle tyre by means of further steps.