Patent ID: 6790301
Filing Date: 2004-09-14
Classification: B29C,B29D,B29L

Abstract:
A method for making a tread-belt assembly for application to a tire carcass, the method comprising the steps of:advancing a leading end of a length of tread stock to an outer circumferential surface of a belt package disposed about an assembly drum; applying the leading end of the length of tread stock to the outer circumferential of the belt package; rotating the assembly drum to apply a section of tread stock to the outer circumference of the belt package; cutting the length of tread stock to form a trailing end of the section of tread stock and a leading end of the remaining length of tread stock; and applying the trailing end of the section of tread stock to the circumference of the belt package and abutting the trailing end to the leading end of the section of tread stock; wherein the step of advancing the leading end of the length of tread stock includes the steps of: gripping the leading end of the length of tread stock prior to cutting the length of tread stock; and advancing the leading end of the length of tread stock by moving the gripped leading end; and wherein the step of gripping includes the step of; inserting a plurality of transfer pins downward into both lateral outside edges of the tread stock such that each of the plurality of transfer pins is angled toward a closest, laterally outside edge of the tread stock for securely gripping the tread stock from above.