Modular tire building machine

Abstract

A tire building machine comprises a number of modular packages which can be used interchangeably in single stage, or first stage tire component assembly. Some of the modular components are particularly useful in the manufacture of larger or truck type tires but can also be used in the automatic or semi-automatic production of smaller passenger size tires. One of the principal components is a carriage mounted device for transfer of components such as bands or belt and tread assemblies, or finished tires, which also functions as a bead setter and as a retractable two-position idle journal support for the non-driven end of the main shaft of the tire building drum or shaper. The shaft supports a wide variety of shapers or drums for single, first or second stage building. The device is mounted for movement to and from the shaper or drum and includes a support arm which moves in a circular arc to assume and maintain various positions during various periods in the machine cycle. For certain types of shapers, the device provides support and means for automatic removal and replacement of the outboard bead seal flange. A bead setter is supported on the device and is adjustable omnidirectionally to obtain concentricity and squareness and is also adjustable axially for accurate bead placement symmetrically about the axis centerline of the shaper or drum and thus the tire being built. A bead gripper, actuated by fluid power, automatically rotates clear of the bead flippers or apex and clamps the tire bead securely and squarely to ensure accurate bead placement while transferring the tire bead to its selected location. A retractable positive intermediate stop is employed to position the carriage of the device to perform its various functions. A wide variety of arrangements of the components may be employed performing various tire building processes for different types and sizes of tires.