Patent ID: 8298463
Filing Date: 2012-10-30
Classification: B29D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of operating a double tread separation apparatus for tire retreading, the method comprising: feeding a double tread strip into a handling mechanism of the double tread separation apparatus, the handling mechanism comprising upper and lower feed rollers, the double tread strip comprising (a) a first design side comprising an upper surface having a first tread pattern molded in a unitary tread body, and (b) a second design side comprising a lower surface having a second tread pattern molded in the unitary tread body, the second tread pattern opposingly oriented with respect to the first tread pattern across a plane between and parallel to the upper and lower surfaces, the first and second tread patterns adapted for being individually applied to a tire casing, wherein the upper and lower feed rollers are aligned and arranged to engage therebetween a cross section of the double tread strip extending between the upper and lower surfaces such that the upper feed roller engages the upper surface and the lower feed roller engages the lower surface; centering the double tread strip along a centerline lying on the plane between and parallel to the upper and lower surfaces via the handling mechanism by floating a position of the upper and lower feed rollers in a direction that is perpendicular to the plane between the upper and lower surfaces; and cutting the double tread strip along the centerline to separate the upper and lower surfaces.