Universal Sidewall Marking for Tyre Quality Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current automated quality control systems for tyres face challenges due to varying markings on sidewalls, which require adaptation for different tyre models, making industrial-scale control complex and unreliable.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a universal position reference marking on the sidewall consisting of a specific pattern with a first line and a second radial line, allowing for consistent detection of defects across all tyre models using a single methodology and device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing tyre markings are used as position references, then quality control can be performed, but the system requires adaptation for different tyre models making it complex and unreliable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality control reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by introducing a standardized position reference marking that can be used across all tyre models. The marking consists of a first radial line and a second radial line at a predetermined angular distance, creating a universal reference system that eliminates the need for model-specific adaptations while maintaining reliable defect position detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If existing tyre markings are used as position references, then quality control can be performed, but repeatable data across different tyre models cannot be obtained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata comparabilityVSAvoidtyre model adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The standardized marking with predetermined angular distance between radial lines provides a universal reference frame that enables comparable defect position data across different tyre models, while the marking's design allows it to be applied universally to all tyre types without modification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the reference parameter from variable existing markings to a fixed angular distance between radial lines. This parameter standardization enables consistent defect position measurement across different tyre models, making data homogeneous and comparable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If a universal position reference marking is introduced, then automated quality control becomes simpler and more reliable, but additional marking space is required on the sidewall

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system simplicityVSAvoidsidewall marking space
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by positioning the radial lines in specific locations on the sidewall - the first radial line preferably extends from the bead towards the crown, and the second radial line is positioned at a predetermined angular distance. This strategic local placement minimizes space requirements while ensuring the marking is accessible for detection and does not interfere with other tyre functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP3084387B1Method for controlling the quality of a tyre for vehicle wheels
Publication Date: 2018.09.19 PIRELLI TYRE SPA
  • EP3084387B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3084387B1 patent drawingFigure 3~6
  • EP3084387B1 patent drawingFigure 7~8

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for controlling the quality of a tyre (1) for vehicle wheels and a tyre (1) for vehicle wheels having a marking in at least one sidewall (2). The marking comprises a mark (5) with a first line (53) and a second radial line (51), configured to be used as position reference to determine the position of production defects identified in the tyre (1) during a quality control. The quality control method comprises: - locating a position reference through identification of the mark (5) of the marking, detecting said first line (53) and said second radial line (51), and by locating the position reference in said second radial line (51); - inspecting the tyre (1) to search for production defects; - determining the position of each production defect with respect to the located position reference.