Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin

Michelin Recherche Et Technique S.a.

Robert Gaut

Brian Douglas Wilson

James Milo Endicott

Mark Creasap

Karl Mohrmann

David C Lung

Eric Rivers

David Alan Goodenough

Glenn Andrew Schimidke

Glenn Andrew Schmidke

Brian Wilson

A method of curing spokes is provided in which first molds of a first and second series of molds are placed into a platen press, and force and heat applied. The platen press is opened and the first mold of the first series is moved relative to the platen press while the position of the first mold of the second series is kept the same relative to the platen press. Force and heat are applied to the molds. The platen press is opened, and the first mold of the first series is removed while the second mold of the first series is kept within the platen press. A cured spoke is removed from the first mold of the first series.

Method of molding spokes of a non-pneumatic tire using an array of molds

A method of manufacturing a spoke () for a non-pneumatic tire is provided that involves providing a first form () and a second form (), where first and second components () of the spoke are placed on the first form (). A third component () of the spoke is placed on the second form (). The first and second components are transferred to the second form (). The first component, the second component, and the third component are transferred from the second form to a mold (). Further, the first component, the second component, and the third component have heat and pressure applied thereto for curing.

Method of manufacturing a spoke for a non-pneumatic tire

A method and apparatus for molding non-pneumatic wheels is provided. The exemplary method and apparatus allow for the use of the same molding system to manufacture wheels with different hub constructions. Different configurations of removable mold elements are utilized within the same molding system to provide wheels with different hub constructions.

Method and apparatus for molding non-pneumatic wheels

An apparatus for assembling a non-pneumatic tire is provided that includes a plurality of spokes attached to a hub, a frame, and a plurality of mechanical elements disposed between and engaging successive spokes. The spokes extend to locations radially inward and radially outward of the locations of engagement with the mechanical elements. A radial movement member moves the mechanical elements in a radial direction. The spokes are compressed by the mechanical elements, and retaining elements engage the mechanical elements to hold them and the spokes in this position. Release by the retaining elements and outward radial movement of the mechanical elements urge the spokes toward a shear band that is outward in the radial direction. Adhesive located between the spokes and the shear band is pressed there between through this urging to result in the spokes being attached to the shear band in a state of pre-compression.

Fixture for spoke to shear band attachment for a non-pneumatic tire with spoke pre-compression

Particular embodiments of the invention include methods and apparatus for molding and/or curing an article. Particular embodiments of such methods include positioning a mold core centrally within mold outer portion to form an annular mold cavity between the mold outer portion and the mold core, the core including an outer ring having an outer surface for engaging the annular article, the outer ring being formed of a material capable of expanding and contracting with changes in temperature. Such methods also include heating the mold outer ring, cooling the core outer ring subsequent to the step of heating, whereby the core outer ring contracts relative to the article, and removing the article from the core outer ring.

Apparatus and method for curing a rubber like article

A method for precisely controlling the volume of a product such as a tire tread or tire that is placed into a mold is provided. This method includes providing a tread or tire that is built upon a portable mold core by laying a series of layers on the portable mold core. The outer diameter of the tire tread or tire is initially built to be purposely smaller than the interior surfaces of the mold in order to prevent any interference from occurring between the mold and the tire tread once the tire tread and core are placed within the mold and the mold is closed. The weight of the tire tread or tire is measured to see if the volume of the tire tread or tire is within acceptable parameters to fit within the mold. If not, additional material is added to the tire or tire tread.

Method of controlling product volume in a fixed volume mold

A method for precisely controlling the volume of a product such as a tire tread or tire that is placed into a mold is provided. This method includes providing a tread or tire that is built upon a portable mold core by laying a series of layers on the portable mold core. The outer diameter of the lire tread or lire is initially built to be purposely smaller than the interior surfaced of the mold in order to prevent any interference from occurring between the mold and the tire tread once the tire tread and core are placed within the mold and the mold is closed. The weight of the tire tread or tire is measured to see if the volume of the tire tread or tire is within acceptable parameters to fit within the mold. If not, additional material is added to the tire or tire tread.

Particular embodiments of the invention include methods and apparatus for molding and/or curing an article. Particular embodiments of such methods include positioning a mold core centrally within mold outer portion to form an annular mold cavity between the mold outer portion and the mold core, the core including an outer ring having an outer surface for engaging the annular article, the outer ring being formed of a material capable of expanding and contracting with changes in temperature. Such methods also include heating the mold outer ring, cooling the core outer ring subsequent to the step of heating, whereby the core outer ring contracts relative to the article and removing the article from the core outer ring.

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Easley, SC, United States of America

Robert Gaut