RU2377128C2 - Method and unit to fabricate vehicle wheel tires - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: automotive industry.

SUBSTANCE: proposed invention relates to method and unit to produce automotive tires. Proposed method comprises the following stages, i.e. (a) assembling cylindrical carcass structure at first assembly position incorporating at least one carcass layer coupled with annular fixing appliances spaced axially apart; (b) producing cylindrical hose comprising tread band applied in outward-radial direction relative to band structure that comprises at least one band layer including reinforcing cords parallel to hose circumferential length. Note here that stage (b) includes job (b1) of first band structure assembly at aforesaid first assembly position and on first auxiliary drum of final station. Job (b2) of applying tread band at least one second working position in outward-radial direction relative to second band structure pre-assembled at least one second auxiliary drum of final station. Note here that application is effected via laying, in preset manner, of annular turns of at least one continuous elongated element made from green elastomer material in outward-radial direction relative to second band structure. Job (b3) of positioning fist auxiliary drum that holds first band structure in at least one second working position. Job (b4) of positioning at least one second auxiliary drum that holds produced cylindrical hose in position of final station pick-up position. Then, follows stage (c) of moving cylindrical hose from aforesaid pick-up position into outward-radial position relative to carcass structure assembled at assembly station. Note here that jobs (b1) through (b4) are cyclically repeated, jobs (b1) and (b2), (b3) and (b4) are effected at least partially simultaneously.

EFFECT: method to produce high-quality tire.

57 cl, 3 dwg

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels.

The invention also relates to an apparatus for manufacturing tires for vehicles, which can be used to implement the above production method, as well as equipment for manufacturing tires for wheels of vehicles.

State of the art

A tire for vehicle wheels typically comprises a carcass structure comprising at least one carcass ply having respectively opposed end rim tapes looped around annular fastening structures, each of which fastening structures are typically represented by a substantially annular insert on which at least one filling insert in a radially external position relative to it.

A tape structure comprising one or more tape layers having textile or metal reinforcing cords arranged radially on top of each other and on a frame structure is connected to the latter. A tread band made of elastomeric material, like the other semi-finished products that make up the tire, is superimposed on the belt structure in a radially outer position relative to it.

In the framework of the present description and in the following claims, the term "elastomeric material" is used to refer to a composition containing at least one elastomeric polymer and at least one reinforcing filler. Preferably, such a composition also contains additives, such as, for example, a crosslinking agent and / or plasticizer. Due to the presence of a crosslinking agent, such a material can be cross-linked by heating to form the final product.

In addition, corresponding sidewalls of elastomeric material are also superimposed on the side surfaces of the frame structure, each of which extends from one of the side edges of the tread band to the corresponding annular fastening structure in the sides, while the sidewalls, depending on different embodiments, may have corresponding radial outer edges, or superimposed on the side edges of the tread band in such a way as to form a structural diagram of a type commonly referred to as "superimposed sidewalls ", or laid between the frame structure and the side edges of the tread band itself in accordance with a structural design of a type called" underlying sidewalls ".

According to most conventional tire manufacturing methods, it is envisaged that the carcass structure and the belt structure together with the corresponding tread band are manufactured separately from each other at the respective operating points so as to be connected to each other later.

More specifically, the frame structure is assembled at an assembly point, and it primarily involves laying the frame layer or layers on a first drum, commonly referred to as an “assembly drum”, to form a substantially cylindrical sleeve. The annular fastening structures of the sides are laid or formed on opposite end rim tapes of the carcass ply or layers, which, in turn, are wrapped around the ring structures themselves so that they enclose the ring structures with some kind of loop.

At the same time, at the final point provided with a second drum or an auxiliary drum, an outer sleeve is made which also has a substantially cylindrical shape and contains tape layers stacked with a radial overlap and a tread band superimposed on the tape layers in a radially outer position regarding them.

Then the outer sleeve is picked up from the auxiliary drum for connection with the frame sleeve. To this end, the outer sleeve is arranged coaxially around the frame sleeve, and then the frame layer or layers are formed into a toroidal configuration by axially moving the sides to a position close to each other and simultaneously injecting fluid under pressure into the frame sleeve so as to allow the sleeve to be laid out from the tape the structure / tread band on the tire carcass structure in a radially outer position relative to it.

The assembly of the frame sleeve and the outer sleeve can be carried out on one drum used to assemble the frame sleeve, and in this case, you can refer to the "one-stage production process." A manufacturing process of this type is described, for example, in document US 3990931.

Alternatively, the assembly can be carried out on a so-called “forming drum”, onto which a carcass sleeve and an outer sleeve for manufacturing a tire are transferred in accordance with the so-called “two-stage production process”, as described, for example, in EP 0613757.

According to conventional manufacturing methods, the tread band is usually made of a continuously extruded element, which, after cooling, is contained on suitable shelving or drums to stabilize its geometric configuration. The semi-finished product in the form of sections or a continuous strip is then sent to a feeding unit, which either picks up the sections or cuts a continuous strip into sections of a given length, each section constituting a tread band, which is laid around the tape structure of the tire being manufactured.

To improve the resistance to radial stresses that a completed tire undergoes during use, for example, such as stresses caused by centrifugal force at high speed, it was proposed to provide the tape structure with at least one radially outer layer, including reinforcing cords, located essentially parallel to the direction of the circumferential extension of the tire.

These reinforcing cords, commonly referred to as “zero-angle cords”, are applied to the underlying tape layers, usually provided with textile or metal reinforcing cords with a crossover orientation, by winding circumferentially coiled axially adjacent to each other to obtain a strip element of crude elastomeric material comprising one or more reinforcing cords substantially parallel to each other.

However, from a production point of view, this improvement in the overall mechanical characteristics of a tire implies a solution to a difficult problem, namely, the problem of matching performance (meaning the number of products that can be produced per unit time) of an assembly point for assembling a frame structure, which is usually high, and the performance of the final point, in which a substantially cylindrical sleeve is made comprising tape layers and a tread band.

In fact, the performance of the final item is largely negatively affected in this case by the inherent slowness of the winding operation of the turns of the strip element, including circumferentially oriented reinforcing cords.

To address this disadvantage anyway, US Pat. No. 4,985,100 proposes to increase the productivity of the finishing point by using an assembly device rotating around a substantially vertical axis of rotation and provided with two drums arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of rotation of the device, and manufacturing the above substantially cylindrical sleeve by cyclic repetition of the following operations:

I) applying the radial inner layer of the tape structure to the first drum of the final point in the first working position,

II) manufacturing a radially outer layer of the tape structure in the second operating position by winding around the circumference of the coils located in the axial direction next to each other, a strip element of elastomeric material, including one or more reinforcing cords, on the radial inner layer pre-made on the second drum of the final paragraph;

Iii) changing the position of the two drums;

IV) applying in the first working position of the tread band to the radially outer layer of the tape structure, including circumferentially oriented reinforcing cords, by winding a section of a predetermined length of a continuous strip of elastomeric material formed earlier;

V) removing thus obtained essentially cylindrical sleeve from the first working position;

moreover, step II) of manufacturing the radially outer layer of the tape structure including circumferentially oriented cords is carried out during the remaining steps IV), V) of making the tread band and removing the cylindrical sleeve thus obtained, and I) of making the radial inner layer of the tape structure of the new cylindrical sleeves.

Recently, to further improve the mechanical characteristics and quality of the tire, it was proposed to manufacture a tread band by winding a continuous elongated element with coils located next to each other directly on the tape structure, rather than winding and cutting with a certain size of sections of a continuous strip extruded previously and contained on racks or drums.

From a practical point of view, this can be achieved, as described, for example, in international application WO 2004/041521, owned by the present applicant, by means of an assembly method comprising the following operations:

I) the location of the tape structure containing at least one tape layer on the auxiliary drum;

II) laying the tread band on the band structure by winding at least one continuous elongated element of elastomeric material with adjacent ring turns;

III) picking up the tape structure from the auxiliary drum for its transfer to the position coaxially centered relative to the frame sleeve.

Such a continuous elongated element is obtained in place, and it forms a lot of turns, the orientation and mutual overlapping parameters of which are suitably adjusted in such a way as to regulate changes in the thickness imparted to the tread band during production, based on a predetermined styling pattern embedded in the computer, with a significant increase qualitative characteristics of the tread band, which, in turn, positively affect the characteristics of the tire and its service life.

However, from a production point of view, the achievement of these improvements increases the problem of matching the performance of the assembly point for assembling the frame structure and the performance of the finishing point in which a substantially cylindrical sleeve is made comprising a tape structure and a tread band, especially if the tape structure includes a layer of circumferentially oriented reinforcing cords .

On the other hand, the manufacturing methods proposed by US patent No. 4985100 and international application WO 2004/041521 cannot provide a sleeve in which the tape structure includes a layer of circumferentially oriented reinforcing cords, and in which the tread band is made by winding coils of a continuous elongated element from elastomeric material during the cycle, compatible with the cycle time of the assembly point of the frame structure.

The problem underlying the invention

The applicant intends to solve the problem of manufacturing a high-quality tire with coordination of different production rates at the point of assembly of the frame structure and at the final point intended for the manufacture of a substantially cylindrical sleeve from the tape structure / tread band, also in the case when such a sleeve includes a tape structure equipped with a layer of reinforcing cords with zero tilt and a tread band made by winding coils of at least one continuous elongated ementa.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention, the applicant has discovered the possibility of achieving great improvements related to the flexibility of production and product quality by performing in this tire manufacturing process, which involves the assembly of semi-finished products, a special sequence of cyclically repeated operations performed at least partially simultaneously in the final paragraph, by holding various manufactured semi-finished products on at least two auxiliary drums and work, at least least in two different operating positions.

More specifically, the present invention relates, according to a first aspect thereof, to a method for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels, comprising the following steps:

a) assemblies at the assembly point of a substantially cylindrical frame structure comprising at least one frame layer connected to annular fastening structures axially spaced from each other;

b) manufacturing at the final point of a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a tread band placed in a radially outer position relative to the belt structure comprising at least one belt layer comprising reinforcing cords oriented essentially parallel to the direction of the circumferential extension of the sleeve, said step b) contains the following operations:

b1) assembling the first belt structure in a first working position on the first auxiliary drum of the final point;

b2) applying a tread band in at least one second operating position in a radially outer position relative to the second belt structure previously assembled on at least one second auxiliary drum of the finishing point, wherein said application is performed by laying according to a predetermined route at least one continuous elongated element of crude elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the specified second tape structure tion;

b3) positioning the first auxiliary drum holding the first belt structure in said at least one second working position;

b4) positioning said at least one second auxiliary drum holding the thus obtained substantially cylindrical sleeve in the position of picking up the final point;

c) transferring said substantially cylindrical sleeve from said pickup position of the final point to a radially outward position with respect to the frame structure assembled in the meantime at the assembly point;

wherein said operations b1) to b4) are cyclically repeated;

moreover, operations b1) and b2) are carried out at least partially simultaneously with each other; and

moreover, operations b3) and b4) are carried out at least partially simultaneously with each other.

Preferred features of the manufacturing method of the invention are defined in the attached dependent paragraphs 2-35, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

According to another aspect of the invention, the aforementioned method can be carried out using an apparatus for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels, comprising:

a) an assembly point for assembling a substantially cylindrical carcass structure comprising at least one carcass ply connected to the annular fixing structures axially spaced from each other;

b) a final point for the manufacture of a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a tread band applied radially outwardly relative to the belt structure comprising at least one belt layer comprising reinforcing cords substantially parallel to the direction of the circumferential extension of the sleeve, said terminal item contains:

b1) a first sub drum;

b2) at least one second sub drum;

b3) a moving device adapted to hold said auxiliary drums and to position said auxiliary drums in a first working position in which said belt structure is assembled in at least one second working position in which said tread band is applied and in a pickup position said substantially cylindrical sleeve; said first and said at least one second operating positions are defined in different zones of the final paragraph;

b4) at least one feed element for supplying a strip element of raw elastomeric material, comprising at least one reinforcing cord located in said first working position, for working interaction with one of said auxiliary drums;

b5) at least one feed element for supplying a continuous elongated element of raw elastomeric material, located in the specified at least one second working position, for working interaction with one of these auxiliary drums;

c) at least one means of transmission of a substantially cylindrical sleeve made at the final point, adapted for working interaction with one of these auxiliary drums at the specified pick-up point, for transferring the specified essentially cylindrical sleeve to a radially outer position relative to the frame structure, assembled at the assembly point.

Preferred features of a production plant in accordance with the invention are defined in the attached dependent paragraphs 37-52, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

According to another object thereof, the invention relates to equipment for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels, comprising the aforementioned production unit and at least one vulcanization station for vulcanizing tires manufactured by said production unit.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent upon reading a detailed description of preferred, but not exclusive, variants of a method and apparatus for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels according to the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

This description will be given below with reference to the accompanying drawings, data for indicating, and not limitation, on which:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic top view of a first preferred embodiment of a tire manufacturing apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic partial sectional view of a tire obtained according to the method and apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of a second preferred embodiment of a tire manufacturing apparatus of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As shown in FIG. 1, a tire manufacturing apparatus for vehicle wheels adapted to implement a production method according to the present invention according to a first preferred embodiment is generally indicated by 1.

A tire which can be produced by the installation 1 is generally indicated by the reference numeral 2 in FIG. 2 and may be a tire designed to equip the wheels of a passenger car or the wheels of a heavy vehicle.

Tires 2 essentially comprise a carcass structure 3 having a substantially toroidal shape, a belt structure 4 having a substantially cylindrical shape circumferentially around the carcass structure 3, a tread band 5 superimposed on the belt structure 4 in a radially outward position with respect to it, and a pair of sidewalls 6, superimposed laterally on opposite sides of the frame structure 3, each extending from the side edge of the tread band 5 to the radially inner edge of the frame structure 3.

Each sidewall 6 essentially contains a layer of elastomeric material having a suitable thickness, and may have a radially outer end tail portion 6a at least partially covered by the axial end of the tread band 5, as shown by the solid line in FIG. 2, according to a pattern of a type commonly referred to as “laying sidewalls”.

Alternatively, the radially outer tail portions 6a of the sidewalls 6 may be laterally overlaid on the respective axial ends of the tread band 5, as shown by the dotted line in FIG. 2 to implement a circuit of a type commonly referred to as “covering sidewalls”.

The carcass structure 3 comprises a pair of annular fastening structures 7 embedded in areas commonly referred to as “beads”, each of which, for example, is represented by a substantially circular annular insert 8, commonly referred to as a “tire bead core”, and contains an elastomeric filler 9 in a radially -final position relative to it. Around each of the fastening structures 7 are wrapped end rim tapes 10a of one or more layers of the carcass 10 containing textile or metal cords extending in the transverse direction relative to the annular extension of the tire 2, possibly with a predetermined slope between the two annular fastening structures 7.

The tape structure 4 may, in turn, contain one or more tape layers 11a, 11b containing reinforcing cords made of suitable material, for example, metal or textile cords.

Preferably, said reinforcing cords are suitably inclined with respect to the circumferential extent of the tire 2 according to corresponding intersecting orientations between one tape layer and another.

The tape structure 4 also contains at least one tape layer 12 in a radially outer position relative to the tape layers 11a, 11b and includes at least one reinforcing cord, preferably a plurality of cords wound around the circumference of the coils located next to each other other in the axial direction and commonly referred to in the art as “zero-slope cords”.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the tape structure 4 may include a tape layer 12, including cords with zero slope, essentially extending along the entire transverse length of the tape structure 4; alternatively, the tape structure 4 may comprise a pair of tape layers 12, each of which includes zero slope cords located close to opposite shoulder regions of the tire 2 and extending axially along a portion of a limited width, as schematically shown in FIG. 2.

In heavy-duty tires, such as tires for trucks and heavy vehicles, the belt structure 4 may also include, at a radially outer location relative to the belt layer 12, an additional layer 13 made of elastomeric material, preferably including a plurality of reinforcing cords, commonly referred to as “belt” layer "and designed to prevent the penetration of foreign bodies into the underlying tape layers.

The tread band 5 may essentially consist of one elastomeric material or, alternatively, it may contain parts consisting of appropriate elastomeric materials having the proper composition and mechanical and chemical-physical characteristics.

These parts can be composed of one or more layers superimposed in a radial direction having a suitable thickness, suitably configured sectors arranged according to a given configuration along the axial extent of the tread band, or a combination thereof.

Thus, for example, the tread band 5 may include a radially inner layer or a base layer essentially consisting of a first elastomeric material having an appropriate composition and mechanical and chemical-physical characteristics, for example, adapted to reduce tire rolling resistance, and a radially outer a layer essentially consisting of a second elastomeric material having a composition and mechanical and chemical-physical characteristics different from those of the first elastomeric material, for example, adapted to optimize wet grip and tire durability.

Individual components of the frame structure 3 and the tape structure 4, such as, in particular, the annular fastening structures 7, the carcass layers 10, the tape layers 11a, 11b and elements of elastomeric material (strip elements) including at least one reinforcing cord and intended for forming the tape layer 12 and possibly the belt layer 13, are delivered to the installation 1 in the form of semi-finished products made during the previous production operations for suitable assembly according to the operations described below.

Now with reference to FIG. 1, a first preferred embodiment of a vehicle tire manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the invention, for example, for manufacturing a tire 2 of the above type, will be described.

In the following description, reference will be made to the various components of tire 2 in their semi-finished state and, as regards the various elastomeric materials used in their raw state, that is, prior to vulcanization operations that bind different semi-finished products to each other to form a complete tire 2.

Installation 1 contains an assembly point 14 for assembling a substantially cylindrical frame structure 3, comprising one or more layers 10 of the frame, in the working position connected to the annular fixing structures 7, axially spaced from each other.

The assembly point 14 comprises a primary drum 15 not described in detail since it can be made in any conventional manner on which, preferably, a layer or layers 10 of a carcass are wound; moreover, these layers enter the supply line 16, on which they are cut into sections of appropriate length corresponding to the circumferential length of the primary drum 15, before they are superimposed on it to form the so-called essentially cylindrical "frame sleeve".

The assembly point 14 also contains a line (not shown) for supplying the sidewalls 6, and this line delivers the semi-finished product in the form of a continuous strip of elastomeric material from which sections of a given length are cut, the specified length corresponding to the circumferential length of the primary drum 15 and the tire 2 being manufactured.

Alternatively, the assembly point 14 may be provided with an additional assembly drum (not shown), on which the components of the frame structure 3 and possibly also the side walls 6 are assembled, and transmission means (also not shown) for transferring the assembled frame sleeve to the primary drum 15.

Installation 1 also contains the final paragraph 17, intended for the manufacture of essentially cylindrical sleeves containing:

I) a tread band 5 comprising one or more crude elastomeric materials, the tread band being superposed in a radially outward position on

II) a tape structure 4 comprising a layer 12 comprising reinforcing cords substantially parallel to the circumferential direction of a substantially cylindrical sleeve, and layer 12 in this preferred embodiment is adapted to be applied in a radially outward position with respect to layers 11a, 11b including reinforcing cords, suitably tilted relative to the circumferential extent of the sleeve with correspondingly intersecting orientations in one tape layer and in another, and possibly a belt layer 13, which is preferred in this The final embodiment is superimposed in a radially outer position relative to layer 12.

The final paragraph 17, in turn, contains a moving device 18, adapted to hold the first auxiliary drum 19 and the second auxiliary drum 20 and positioning these auxiliary drums 19, 20 in a variety of operating positions in which the operations necessary for the manufacture of the specified essentially cylindrical sleeves.

More specifically, the transfer device 18 is adapted to position the auxiliary drums 19, 20 in a first operating position, indicated by the letter A in FIG. 1, in which the tape structure 4 is assembled, in at least one second working position, indicated by the letter B in FIG. 1, in which a tread band 5 is applied, and to the pickup position indicated by the letter D in FIG. 1 of a substantially cylindrical sleeve made in the final paragraph 17.

In this preferred embodiment, the position D of picking up a substantially cylindrical sleeve substantially coincides with the first working position A.

The first operating position A and the second operating position B are in different zones of the finishing point 17 and, preferably, they are on opposite sides of the moving device 18.

In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, it is further provided that in the pick-up position D, the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located there by the moving device 18 is arranged in accordance with the coaxial alignment with the primary drum 15 of the assembly point 14.

The final paragraph 17 contains a device for applying the tape structure 4 to one auxiliary drum, generally indicated by the reference numeral 21, adapted to interact with the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located in the working position A of the moving device 18.

The overlay device 21, in turn, contains at least one means 24 for supplying the tape layers 11a, 11b located in the first working position A for working interaction with the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located in the specified working position by the moving device 18.

For example, the supplying means 24 may contain, in a known manner, at least one supply line 24a along which the semi-finished products in the form of a continuous strip are advanced, said strip being cut into sections with a length corresponding to the circumferential length of the auxiliary drums 19, 20, simultaneously with the formation of corresponding tape layers 11a, 11b on the same drums.

The overlay device 21 of the final paragraph 17 also includes at least one means 22 for feeding the tape element 23 from the raw elastomeric material, comprising at least one reinforcing cord, preferably a plurality of textile or metal reinforcing cords, the tape element 23 being applied to radially outer position relative to the tape layers 11a, 11b for forming adjacent in the axial direction of the annular turns intended to form the tape layer 12.

To this end, the supply means 22 is in the first working position A for working interaction with the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located in the specified working position by the moving device 18.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device 21 also contains at least one means for supplying an additional tape layer, preferably including a plurality of reinforcing cords, located in the first working position A for working interaction with the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located in the specified working position moving device 18, for forming the aforementioned breaker layer 13.

The final paragraph 17 also contains at least one feeding element, preferably at least two feeding elements 25, 26 of the corresponding continuous elongated elements 27, 28 of raw elastomeric material, and these feeding elements are located in the second working position B for working interacting with the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located in the indicated operating position by the moving device 18.

In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the feed elements 25, 26 of the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 are located in the second working position B for working interaction on opposite sides of the auxiliary drum 19, 20, placed in the specified working position by the moving device 18.

The supply elements 25, 26 are adapted for laying continuous elongated elements 27, 28 adjacent annular turns on the tape structure 4, previously assembled on the auxiliary drum 19 or 20 in the second working position B.

More specifically, the feeding elements 25, 26 may comprise, for example, an extruder or, alternatively, a roller or other element adapted to feed continuous elongated elements 27, 28 to a radially outward position relative to the belt structure 4 held by the auxiliary drum 19 or 20 in the second operating position B, simultaneously with the elongated elements themselves being wound onto the strip structure 4, as will be described in more detail below.

Preferably, each of the feed members 25, 26 comprises at least one extruder, shown in FIG. 1 with reference numerals 29, 30.

For winding continuous elongated elements fed by extruders 29, 30 onto the strip structure 4, the transfer device 18 according to the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1 comprises at least one drum rotation unit, preferably a pair of rotating units 31, 32 adapted to rotate the auxiliary drums 19, 20 around their geometric axis.

Thus, it is preferable that the controllably stacked continuous elongate elements 27, 28 can be effected in a radially outward position relative to the tape structure 4 in an efficient manner.

Preferably and as shown in FIG. 1, the moving device 18 is essentially a turret type device and is adapted to hold the auxiliary drums 19, 20 in positions with angular displacement relative to each other, for example with an angle offset of about 180 °.

Preferably, the moving device 18 is also provided with at least one drive unit 35 adapted to rotate the moving device 18 in general around a substantially vertical axis of rotation YY for locating the auxiliary drums 19, 20 in the first and second operating positions A, B above. .

Preferably, the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and the corresponding drive units 31, 32 are slidably held by the moving device 18 with a support caliper, not shown in detail in FIG. 1, which, in turn, is slidably mounted on a rotating carrier platform 39 of the moving device 18.

Preferably, each auxiliary drum 19, 20 can perform translational motion together with a corresponding rotating unit 31, 32 along the supporting platform 39.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the moving device 18 comprises at least one drum moving unit adapted to perform controlled axial movements of the drums 19, 20 to the operating positions A, B or to the D position of picking up a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a belt structure 4 and tread bracelet 5, made in the final paragraph 17.

Preferably, said drum moving unit causes controlled axial movements of not only auxiliary drums 19, 20, but also corresponding rotary nodes 31, 32.

In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the moving device 18 comprises a pair of drum-moving nodes 33, 34, for example, of a type containing a worm, adapted to engage with a corresponding thread of a nut connected to said caliper carrying auxiliary drums 19, 20.

Obviously, the drum transfer assemblies may contain drive mechanisms other than those indicated above for example, and they can be selected by a person skilled in the art depending on the requirements for a particular application.

Preferably, the drum-moving units 33, 34 of the moving device 18 move the drums 19, 20 between the operating positions A, B or the pick-up position D and the initial position defined between these positions and the rotation axis Y-Y of the moving device 18.

Preferably, said initial positions of the auxiliary drums 19, 20 are defined within the outer perimeter of the rotating support platform 39.

Preferably, the drum moving units 33, 34 move the drums 19, 20 along a radial direction passing through the rotation axis Y-Y of the moving device 18, as shown by the double arrows F3, F4 in FIG. one.

The drum-moving units 33, 34 thus achieve the following technical effects:

I) the effect of proper movement of the auxiliary drums 19, 20 relative to the feed elements 25, 26;

II) the effect of the controlled laying of continuous elongated elements 27, 28 in a radially outer position relative to the tape structure 4 turns, partially located next to each other and / or partially overlapping each other in accordance with what is required for the manufacture of tread bracelet 5, having a high level of quality;

III) the effect of the implementation of a given displacement of the tape layers supplied by the laying device 21, for example, to compensate for any structural asymmetries of the tire 2; and

IV) the effect of reducing the transverse dimensions and inertia forces when moving the auxiliary drums 19, 20 between the operating positions A and B by moving the auxiliary drums 19, 20 close to the Y-Y axis of the moving device 18.

In addition, it is preferable that the drum-moving nodes 33, 34 allow controlled laying of continuous elongated elements 27, 28 while maintaining the motion of the feeding elements 25, 26 and simplifying the mechanical system for laying continuous elongated elements and, thus, reducing the manufacturing cost of installation 1.

Installation 1 also contains at least one transmission device 36 of a substantially cylindrical sleeve manufactured in the final paragraph 17, adapted for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums 19, 20 in the above position D pickup, in this case essentially coinciding with the first working position A, for transferring a substantially cylindrical sleeve made in the final paragraph 17 to a radially outward position relative to the frame structure 3 made in the assembly point 14.

The transmission device 36 preferably has a substantially annular configuration and operates in a known manner (not shown) such that it is located around an auxiliary drum 19, 20 located in the pickup position B, to pick up a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tape structure 4 and tread bracelet 5, made in the final paragraph 17, and for pine transmission of the specified sleeve to the frame structure 3, assembled in the assembly point 14.

In an alternative preferred embodiment of the invention, not shown for simplicity, the installation 1 may further comprise a third feed element of a continuous elongated element of raw elastomeric material, located in the pickup position D (for example, coinciding with the first working position A) of a substantially cylindrical sleeve made in the final paragraph 17, for working interaction with the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located therein by the moving device 18.

In this case, the installation 1 allows the application of a tread band 5 both in the working position B and in the pickup position D (for example, coinciding with the first working position A) of a substantially cylindrical sleeve whenever compliance with the requirements for a particular application is required.

Installation 1 also contains at least one device (which is known and not shown) for forming the frame structure 3 in accordance with a substantially toroidal configuration so as to connect a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a tape structure 4 and a tread band 5 made in the final paragraph 17, with the frame structure 3.

Preferably, this forming device is adapted for working interaction with the primary drum 15 in the assembly point 14 for the implementation, as will be understood further, of the so-called one-stage production process.

Finally, the installation 1 contains a control unit 37, with which the operator 38 can program and control the various work operations that can be carried out by this production installation.

Now, with reference to the setup 1 described above, a first preferred embodiment of the method of the invention for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels, for example, the tire 2 described above, will be described.

In particular, the method will be disclosed with reference to the initial operating state shown in FIG. 1, in which the auxiliary drum 19 is in the first working position A and does not hold any semi-finished products, while the auxiliary drum 20 is in the second working position B and holds the belt structure 4 assembled on the drum during the previous step of the method.

During the first step of the method, an essentially cylindrical frame structure 3 is assembled at the assembly point 14, comprising at least one frame layer 10 connected to the annular fixing structures 7 axially spaced from each other.

At this point, the carcass ply or layers 10 fed through the supply line 16, on which they are cut into sections of appropriate length corresponding to the circumferential length of the primary drum 15, are wound on the primary drum 15 before being applied to it to form a so-called substantially cylindrical "frame sleeves. "

After that, annular fastening structures 7 are laid on the end rim tapes 10a of the layer / layers 10 for subsequent wrapping of the end rim tapes themselves, causing the fastening structures 7 to be fixed in loops thus formed by the wrapped layer / layers 10. Sidewalls 6 can also be applied to the frame sleeve tires, wherein said sidewalls come in at least one corresponding sideline supply line (not shown) supplying the semi-finished product in the form of a continuous strip of elastomeric material, from which ezayut section of predetermined length, said length corresponding to the circumferential extension of the primary drum 15 and the tire 2 manufactured.

The method according to the invention provides for the production in the final paragraph 17 of a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a tread band 5 superimposed in a radially outward position relative to the tape structure 4, comprising at least one layer 12 including reinforcing cords substantially parallel to the direction circumferential length of the sleeve.

The manufacture of this substantially cylindrical sleeve occurs at least partially simultaneously with the assembly of the components of the frame structure 3 in the form of a substantially cylindrical sleeve (or frame sleeve) on the primary drum 15.

More specifically, the manufacture of a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a tape structure 4 and a tread band 5, carried out in the final paragraph 17, contains the following working steps.

According to the invention, these steps are carried out at least partially simultaneously.

At the first stage, the first tape structure 4 is assembled in the first working position A on the first auxiliary drum 19 of the final paragraph 17.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the step of assembling the first tape structure 4 provides, first of all, for applying operations in a radially outer position relative to the first auxiliary drum 19 of the first tape layer 11a, containing corresponding reinforcing cords, inclined relative to the direction of the circumferential extension of the sleeve, and applying in a radially Detective position relative to the first tape layer 11a of the second tape layer 11b containing reinforcing rows disposed obliquely along the intersecting direction with respect to said reinforcing cords of the first belt layer 11a.

Preferably, these steps are carried out by means of a tape layer feeding means 24, which interacts in a working position with an auxiliary drum 19 located in the first working position A by a moving device 18 and a rotating unit 31, which rotates the auxiliary drum 19 around a geometric axis when applying various semi-finished products.

More specifically, the feed line 24a of the feed device 24 feeds the semi-finished products in the form of a continuous strip, which is then cut into sections of a length corresponding to the circumferential length of the auxiliary drum 19, simultaneously with the formation of the respective tape layers 11a, 11b on the same drum, which is simultaneously rotated by the rotating unit 31 .

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the step of assembling the first tape structure 4, therefore, provides for the application of the operation in a radially outer position relative to the first auxiliary drum 19 of at least one strip element 23 of raw elastomeric material, including reinforcing cord (s), for forming axially adjacent annular turns in such a way as to obtain a tape layer 12, including reinforcing cords located essentially parallel about the circumferential length of the manufactured essentially cylindrical sleeve.

Preferably, said strip element 23 is laid in a radially outer position relative to the second tape layer 11b substantially along the entire circumferential length of the first tape structure 4 or, alternatively, only at the axially opposite ends of the underlying tape layers 11a, 11b.

Preferably, this operation is carried out using the feeding means 22 of the overlay device 21, which is also in the first working position A for working interaction with the auxiliary drum 19 located there, the moving device 18.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the step of assembling the first tape structure 4 at the end involves the operation of applying a belt layer 13 of raw elastomeric material, preferably including a plurality of reinforcing cords, preferably inclined relative to the direction of the circumferential extension of the sleeve, in a radially outward position relative to the tape layer 12.

Preferably, this operation is carried out using additional means for feeding the tape layer, preferably including a plurality of reinforcing cords (the means for feeding are not shown in FIG. 1 for simplicity) located in the first working position A for working interaction with the auxiliary drum 19 located there by the transfer device eighteen.

The manufacture of a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a belt structure 4 and a tread band 5 involves forming a tread band 5 in a radially outward position with respect to the second belt structure 4 assembled on the second sub drum 20 during the previous production step of the method.

According to the invention, this step of forming the tread band 5 on the second auxiliary drum 20 located in the second working position B is carried out at least partially simultaneously with the assembly operation of the first belt structure 4 on the first auxiliary drum 19 located in the first working position A.

More specifically, the method according to the invention involves the application of a tread band 5 in a second operating position B in a radially outward position relative to the second belt structure 4 preassembled on the second auxiliary drum 20 of the finishing point 17 in the first operating position A.

Preferably, the operation of applying the tread band 5 is carried out by laying in accordance with a predetermined route, at least one continuous elongated element of crude elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the second tape structure 4, assembled on the second auxiliary drum 20.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the operation of applying the tread band 5 is carried out in the second operating position B by stacking said at least two continuous elongated elements 27, 28 of raw elastomeric material in a radially outward position relative to the tape structure 4 assembled on the second auxiliary drum twenty.

Preferably, the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 are stacked on opposite sides of the second auxiliary drum 20 located in the second operating position B by the moving device 18.

Preferably, the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 are composed of corresponding elastomeric materials having different mechanical and / or chemical-physical characteristics to impart the required qualities to the tread band 5.

Preferably, the operation of applying the tread band 5 is carried out using the feeding elements 25, 26 located in the second working position B for working interaction with the auxiliary drum 20 located there by the moving device 18.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, at least one of the feed members 25, 26 may feed at least one of said continuous elongate members 27, 28 in the form of a semi-finished elastomeric material in the form of a continuous strip so as to form part of the tread a bracelet 5, such as its radially inner layer. Preferably, this strip has a width substantially equal to the transverse length of the tread band 5 and is preferably cut into sections of a length corresponding to the circumferential length of the auxiliary drum 20, while forming at least one part of the tread band 5 on the same drum , which is simultaneously rotated by the rotating unit 32.

However, it is preferable that the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 are fed by extrusion from the extruders 29, 30 of the feeding elements 25, 26.

Preferably, the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 supplied by each extruder 29, 30 may preferably have a tapered cross-section to control the thickness of the elastomeric layer formed by them in a radially outer position relative to the tape structure 4, by changing the amount of overlap of adjacent turns and / or orientation profile along the transverse direction of each elongated element 27, 28 coming from the corresponding extruder 29, 30, relative to the underlying surface.

Preferably, the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 are stacked with adjacent annular turns located axially next to each other and / or radially superimposed in a radially outer position relative to the second belt structure 4 held by the auxiliary drum 20 in the second operating position B.

In this preferred embodiment of the invention, the operation of applying the tread band 5 is carried out by feeding continuous elongated elements 27, 28 by means of feeding elements 25, 26 located in the second operating position B near the second auxiliary drum 20, while winding the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 on specified drum.

In particular, such winding is carried out by simultaneously implementing the application of continuous elongated elements 27, 28 of the following operations:

- communication to the second auxiliary drum 20, carrying the second belt structure 4, of the rotational movement around its geometric axis of rotation in such a way as to distribute continuous elongated elements 27, 28 in a radially outward position relative to the second belt structure 4 around the circle;

- the implementation of controlled relative movements between the second auxiliary drum 20 and the feeding elements 25, 26 to form continuous elongated elements 27, 28 of many turns located next to each other to form at least one part of the tread band 5.

In this preferred embodiment of the invention, controlled relative movements between the second auxiliary drum 20 and the feeding elements 25, 26 are preferably carried out by moving the second auxiliary drum 20 relative to said feeding elements.

Preferably, the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 are fed by the extruders 29, 30 simultaneously with a controlled rotational movement of the auxiliary drum 20 around its geometric axis and a controlled translational movement of the specified drum relative to the feeding elements 25, 26, for example, along a direction substantially parallel to the specified axis.

Preferably, this rotational-translational motion of the auxiliary drum 20 is carried out by means of the moving device 18, in particular, due to the action of the rotating unit 32 and the moving unit 34 of such a device.

In this preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention and by supplying two continuous elongated elements 27, 28, it is preferably possible to form a tread band 5 in a very flexible manner, having structural features allowing to achieve the required characteristics of the tire 2.

Thus, for example, advantageously, it is possible to form a tread band 5 in a preferred embodiment of the invention, comprising a pair of superimposed layers, respectively, internal and external, according to a configuration known in the art as a “two-layer tread”.

According to this preferred embodiment of the invention, the tread band 5 is applied in the second operating position B by laying one of the above continuous elongated elements, for example, a continuous elongated element 27 in a radially outward position relative to the second belt structure 4, held by the auxiliary drum 20, along essentially its entire transverse extent so as to form a radially inner layer of the tread band 5.

Further, the operation of applying the tread band 5 provides for laying the second continuous elongated element 28 in a radially outer position relative to the radially inner layer of the tread band 5 thus formed.

Preferably, the laying of the second continuous elongated element 28 is carried out essentially along the entire transverse length of the specified radially inner layer so as to form a radially outer layer of the tread band 5.

In this preferred embodiment of the invention, therefore, the laying of continuous elongated elements 27, 28 with adjacent annular turns arranged axially next to each other and / or radially superimposed on each other is carried out in two successive steps.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, it is also preferable to form a tread band 5 comprising two or more axially aligned sectors having specific mechanical characteristics corresponding to a configuration that allows for the achievement of many preferred technical effects, for example, such as improved resistance to lateral stresses on the tread band 5 when using the tire 2, or the ability to save essentially constant hydrochloric ability tire 2 to the road grip when the tread band 5 is worn.

According to this preferred embodiment, the tread band 5 is applied in the second operating position B by laying one of these continuous elongated elements, for example, a continuous elongated element 27, in a radially outward position relative to at least one part of the second belt structure 4 held by the sub drum 20 so as to form a corresponding portion of the tread band 5.

Then, the step of applying the tread band 5 involves laying the second continuous elongated element 28 in an axially aligned position relative to the above portion formed by the continuous elongated element 27, so as to form an additional part of the tread band 5.

Thus, it is possible to form a tread band 5 having at least two axially aligned parts or sections having different mechanical and chemical-physical characteristics.

In this preferred embodiment, the laying of the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 can be carried out in successive steps and at least partially at the same time.

When the above operations of assembling the first tape structure 4 on the first auxiliary drum 19 and laying the tread band 5 in a radially outer position relative to the second belt structure 4 pre-assembled on the second auxiliary drum 20 are completed, the method according to the present invention provides for the positioning operations of the first auxiliary drum 19 holding the first tape structure 4 in the second working position B and positioning in the second position the step D of picking up the finishing point 17 of the second auxiliary drum 20 holding a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tread band 5 superimposed in a radially outer position relative to the second belt structure 4.

As described above, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the pickup position D of the thus manufactured substantially cylindrical sleeve substantially coincides with the first working position A.

According to the method of the invention, said positioning operations of the auxiliary drums 19 and 20, respectively, in the second operating position B and in the first operating position A are carried out at least partially simultaneously.

In particular, such operations are preferably carried out using a moving device 18.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, and due to the fact that the moving device 18 is a substantially turret type device and holds the auxiliary drums 19, 20 in positions, preferably angularly offset from each other, said positioning operations of the auxiliary drums 19 and 20 are carried out by rotation a moving device 18 around a substantially vertical axis YY. In particular, such a rotational movement is carried out using the drive unit 35.

In other words, in this preferred embodiment, the position of the auxiliary drums 19 and 20 is effectively changed almost simultaneously by simply rotating the moving device 18 about the rotation axis YY, for example, in accordance with one or two directions of rotation clockwise or counterclockwise, shown by arrows F1 and accordingly F2 in FIG. one.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention and due to the fact that the auxiliary drums 19 and 20 are slidingly held by the moving device 18, the method according to the invention comprises an additional step of translationally moving the auxiliary drums 19 and 20 to the rotation axis YY of the moving device 18 before performing the rotation operation such a device.

Preferably, this operation is carried out using the nodes 33 and 34 of the translational movement of the drums by translational movement of both auxiliary drums 19, 20 and the corresponding rotating nodes 31, 32, which, preferably, perform a common translational movement with these drums.

Thus, it is preferable to reduce both the transverse dimensions and the inertia forces when moving the auxiliary drums 19, 20 between the operating positions A and B while improving the safety features of the installation 1 and decreasing the drive force required from the drive unit 35 to rotate the moving device 18.

Preferably, the auxiliary drums 19 and 20 and the corresponding rotating nodes 31, 32 are translationally moving towards the rotation axis Y-Y of the moving device 18 and are located in the indicated initial positions defined within the outer perimeter of the rotating carrier platform 39 of such a device.

Preferably, the auxiliary drums 19 and 20 of the moving device 18 are in this case at a safe distance from the control unit 37 and the operator 38 while rotating the moving device 18, as shown schematically by the dotted line in FIG. one.

When these simultaneous operations of positioning the first auxiliary drum 19 to the second working position B and the second auxiliary drum to the pickup position D (in this case, coinciding with the first working position A) are completed, the final step 17 is in an operational state in which:

I) a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a second belt structure 4 and a tread band 5, ready to be removed from the second auxiliary drum 20, is located in the pickup position D (in this case, coinciding with the same operating position A); and

II) the first tape structure 4, pre-assembled in the first working position A, is held by the first auxiliary drum 19 and is ready to receive a new tread band 5 in the second working position B.

At this point, the method according to the invention involves the operation of transferring a substantially cylindrical sleeve from a position D of picking up the finishing point 17 to a radially outward position relative to the frame structure 3, assembled in the meantime in the assembly point 14.

Preferably, this transfer operation is carried out using a substantially annular transmission device 36 according to methods known in the art.

After the specified transfer operation, the final point 17 is in working condition, in which the second auxiliary drum 20 is already located in the first working position A and is ready to receive a new tape structure 4 due to working interaction with the laying device 21 located in the specified working position A.

When the above operations are performed, thus, the final point 17 is in working condition, generally similar to the above starting conditions, except for the fact that the two auxiliary drums 19, 20 change their position.

At this point, the method according to the invention provides a cyclic repetition of the operations described above, which are adapted for manufacturing a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a belt structure 4 and a tread band 5, by assembling a new belt structure 4 on the second auxiliary drum 20 in the first operating position A by laying substantially simultaneously in the second working position B of the new tread band 5 in a radially outward position relative to the belt structure uu 4 previously assembled on the first auxiliary drum 19, changing the position of the two drums at the end of these assembling and stacking operations, etc.

At the end of each cyclic repetition of these operations, a new essentially cylindrical sleeve is obtained, including a belt structure 4 and a tread band 5 held in the pickup position D (in this case, in position A) alternately with one of two auxiliary drums 19, 20 of the final paragraph 17.

Such a sleeve is then transferred from the pickup position D of the finishing point 17 to the radially outward position relative to the new frame structure 3 assembled in the assembly point 14 according to the method described above.

Preferably, the manufacturing operations of a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tread band 5 and a belt structure 4, and the transfer of such a sleeve from the pickup position D in the final paragraph 17 is carried out for a time interval substantially equal to or less than the time of the assembly operation of the frame structure 3 in assembly point 14.

Thus, it is preferable that a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tread band 5 and a belt structure 4 can be manufactured and transferred during the cycle time used to assemble the frame structure 3 in the assembly point 14, optimizing the time periods of the process and increasing the productivity of the production unit 1.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the assembly of the substantially cylindrical sleeve including the tread band 5 and the belt structure 4, with the frame structure 3 not yet configured in a toroidal shape (otherwise referred to as the "frame sleeve"), is carried out on the same primary drum 15 assembly point 14, which is used to assemble the frame sleeve, thereby performing a one-stage production process.

Preferably, in this way a high level of quality of the tire 2 produced is ensured due to the limited number of operations during the assembly of the raw semi-finished products, still in a substantially plastic state. Such semi-finished products are thus subject to a correspondingly limited number of potentially deforming stresses, which thus preferably reduces the risk of undesirable structural changes in the manufactured assembled, but not vulcanized tire.

In the framework of this one-stage production process, the transmission device 36, having an essentially annular configuration, works in such a way that it is located around the auxiliary drum 19 or 20, located in the position D of the pickup, for picking up a substantially cylindrical sleeve, including the tape structure 4 and the tread bracelet 5, from this drum. In a known manner, the auxiliary drum 19, 20 detaches the specified sleeve, which is then axially moved by the transmitting device 36 and placed in a coaxially centered position on the primary drum 15 holding the frame sleeve.

Alternatively, the assembly of the carcass sleeve with the sleeve of the tread band 5 / belt structure 4 can be carried out on the so-called forming drum, to which the carcass sleeve and the sleeve of the tread band 5 / belt structure 4 are transferred, for manufacturing the tire according to the so-called "two-stage production process "

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the method also comprises, after said transmission operation, the step of forming a substantially cylindrical frame structure 3 in accordance with a substantially toroidal configuration so as to connect it to a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tread band 5 and a belt structure 4 transferred to radially outer position relative to the frame structure.

Preferably, this forming operation is carried out by axial movement of the ring fastening structures 7 close to each other and simultaneous injection of fluid under pressure into a kit consisting of a frame structure 3 of a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tread band 5 and a belt structure 4, so that bring the frame layer (s) 10 into contact with the inner surface of the tape structure 4, held by the transmitting device 36.

In this way, an assembled but not vulcanized tire is obtained which can be removed from the primary drum 15 or from the forming drum for a conventional vulcanization operation carried out at a vulcanization point (not shown) of tire manufacturing equipment (not shown) containing the production unit described above one.

Obviously, the method and device described above make it possible to manufacture a tire 2 having a different structure, for example, when laying additional layers or elements in the first operating position A and / or in the second operating position B and / or in the pick-up position D.

All this can be achieved by positioning in such positions suitable feeding equipment adapted for working interaction with auxiliary drums 19, 20 located there by the moving device 18.

Thus, for example, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the method according to the invention may include an additional laying operation in the pickup position D (for example, coinciding with the first working position A) in a radially outward position relative to the belt structure 4 held by the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located in it, an additional first or last continuous elongated element of crude elastomeric material in accordance with a given route in this way, h Oba start or end stacking of the tread band 5 is in position D the pick-up.

In this case, it is preferable that the tread band 5 can be formed using three different elastomeric materials supplied by the feeding elements 25, 26 located in the second operating position B and the feeding element located in the pick-up position D of the finishing point 17.

Preferably, this laying operation is carried out according to the methods described above, that is, by feeding such a continuous elongated element using an extruder an additional feeding element (not shown) located in the pickup position D near the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located there, and by winding the continuous elongated element to the specified drum.

Also in this case, such winding is carried out by performing simultaneously with the laying of a continuous elongated element the following operations:

- messages to the auxiliary drum 19 or 20 holding the tape structure 4, rotational movement around its geometric axis in such a way as to distribute around the circumference of a continuous elongated element in a radially outer position relative to the tape structure 4;

- the implementation of controlled relative movements between the auxiliary drum 19 or 20 and the feeding element to form a continuous elongated element of a plurality of turns located next to each other to form at least one part of the tread band 5.

Preferably, this additional supply element may be provided with an appropriate drive group (not shown) adapted to move such an element to (and from there) the auxiliary drum 19, 20 located in the pick-up position D, so as not to interfere with subsequent pick-up operations a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a belt structure 4 and a tread band 5.

In FIG. 3 shows another preferred embodiment of a tire manufacturing apparatus 1 according to the invention.

In the following description and in this figure, installation elements 1 structurally and functionally equivalent to those shown above with reference to the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be further described.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the installation 1 further comprises at least one third auxiliary drum 40 held by the moving device 18, and at least one feed element 41 for supplying an additional continuous elongated element of raw elastomeric material 42, located in at least one the third working position C for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums 19, 20 or 40.

In this preferred embodiment, the pick-up position D of the substantially cylindrical sleeve also substantially coincides with the first working position A.

Preferably, the installation 1 of this design allows you to create a tread band 5 using at least three different elastomeric materials filed by the feeding elements 25 and 26 located in the second working position B, and the feeding element 41 located in the third working position C of the final paragraph 17.

The feed element 41 preferably comprises at least one extruder 43 completely similar to the feed elements 25, 26.

Similar to that described above, for winding a continuous elongated element 42, supplied by the extruder 43 in a radially outer position relative to the tape structure 4 held by the third auxiliary drum 40, the moving device 18 preferably comprises a drum rotation unit 44 adapted to rotate the auxiliary drum 40 around it geometric axis.

Thus, preferably, it is possible to effectively control the superposition of the continuous elongated element 42 in a radially outward position relative to the tape structure 4 held by the third auxiliary drum 40.

In this preferred embodiment of the invention, the moving device 18 is also of a substantially turret type and is adapted to hold the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 in positions with angular displacement relative to each other; however, in this case, the auxiliary drums are offset from each other by an angle equal to approximately 120 °.

As described above, the transfer device 18 comprises one drum transfer unit 45, preferably of a type similar to the transfer units 33 and 34, adapted to communicate controlled axial movements to the auxiliary drum 40 to the operating positions A, B, C or to the pickup position D of a substantially cylindrical a sleeve including a tape structure 4 and a tread band 5 made in the final paragraph 17.

Preferably, the drum transfer unit 45 causes controlled axial movements not only of the sub drum 40, but also of the corresponding rotation unit 44.

Also in this case, the drum moving unit 45 of the moving device 18 moves the auxiliary drum 40 between the operating positions A, B, C or the pickup position D and the initial position defined between the indicated positions and the rotation axis Y-Y of the moving device 18.

Preferably, the starting positions of the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 are defined within the outer perimeter of the rotating support platform 39, schematically indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 3, which may be a round type platform.

Obviously, the rotatable carrier platform 39 may have any suitable shape other than a round shape, in which case the initial positions of the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 are preferably set within an area such as shown schematically in dashed lines in FIG. 3, sufficiently remote from the control unit 37 and from the operator’s workstation 38.

Also preferably, the drum transfer unit 45 moves the sub drum 40 along a radial direction passing through the rotation axis Y-Y of the moving device 18, as shown by the double arrow F5 in FIG. 3.

The nodes 33, 34 and 45 of the movement of the drum, thus, allow to achieve the preferred technical effects indicated above with reference to the previous embodiment of the production plant 1.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, which is not shown, the installation 1 may also contain at least two feed elements of the corresponding continuous elongated elements of crude elastomeric material located in the third working position C for working interaction on opposite sides of the auxiliary drum 19, 20 or 40 located there by the moving device 18.

This additional embodiment of the invention allows the formation of a tread band 5 using up to four different elastomeric materials, which increases the working / technological flexibility of the installation and the possibility of applying the method carried out by the installation.

In another preferred alternative embodiment of the invention, not shown for simplicity, the installation 1 may also comprise a feed element of a corresponding continuous elongated element of crude elastomeric material located in the position D of picking up a substantially cylindrical sleeve made in the final paragraph 17, for working interaction with the drum 19, 20 or 40 located there by the moving device 18.

In this case, the installation 1 allows you to lay the tread band 5 in both the second and third working position B and C and in the position D of picking up a substantially cylindrical sleeve, wherever it is required to meet the requirements of a particular application.

This additional embodiment of the invention allows to form a tread band 5 using up to five different elastomeric materials, which further increases the working / technological flexibility of the installation and the possibility of applying the method carried out by the installation.

Now, with reference to the setup 1 described above, another preferred embodiment of a method for manufacturing tires for vehicle wheels according to the invention will be described.

In particular, the method will be disclosed with reference to the initial operating state shown in FIG. 3, in which the auxiliary drum 19 is in the first working position A and does not hold any semi-finished product, the second auxiliary drum 20 is in the second working position B and holds the second belt structure assembled on the drum during the previous step of the method, and the third auxiliary the drum 40 is in the third working position C and holds the assembly of semi-finished products containing a third belt structure 4 and at least one part of the tread band 5, superimposed in a radially external position relative to the third tape structure 4 during the previous stage of the method.

In this alternative embodiment of the invention, the method differs from that disclosed above with respect to the operation of applying the tread band 5, which can be carried out in the working positions B, C and possibly also in the pick-up position D (in this preferred case, essentially coinciding with the first working position A ) essentially cylindrical sleeve made in the final paragraph 17.

The assembly operation of the substantially cylindrical frame structure 3 (or frame sleeve) in the assembly point 14 and the assembly operation of the tape structure 4 on the first auxiliary drum 19 located in the first working position A are carried out similarly to the working operations described above with reference to the previous embodiment of the invention carried out by means of an embodiment of the installation 1 shown in FIG. one.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention considered here, the tread band 5 is applied in the operating positions B and C and possibly in the pickup position D in a radially outward position relative to the second belt structure 4 held by the second auxiliary drum 20 in the second operating position B and accordingly in the radial external position relative to the third tape structure 4, held by the third auxiliary drum 40 in the third working position C or possibly in position D pickup but.

More specifically, in this alternative embodiment of the invention, the production method comprises the following operations:

- overlaying at least one first part of the tread band 5 in the second working position B in a radially outer position relative to the second belt structure 4, pre-assembled on the second auxiliary drum 20 of the final paragraph 17; in particular, this overlay operation is carried out by laying in accordance with a predetermined route, at least one continuous elongated element, preferably two continuous elongated elements 27, 28 of raw elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the second tape structure 4;

- the imposition of at least one second part of the tread band 5 in the third working position C in a radially outer position relative to the third tape structure 4, pre-assembled on the third auxiliary drum 40 of the final paragraph 17; in particular, this overlay operation is carried out by laying in accordance with a predetermined route, at least one continuous elongated element of crude elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the third tape structure 4.

In this preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, this last operation is thus carried out by feeding a continuous elongated element 42 from a corresponding feeding element 41 located in the third operating position C near the third auxiliary drum 40, simultaneously with winding the continuous elongated element 42 on specified drum.

The laying of the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 and 42 is preferably carried out in the indicated operating positions B and C in the preferred ways described above, that is, by communicating the rotational and translational motion to the auxiliary drums 20 and 40 so as to effect controlled relative movements between such drums and feed elements 25, 26 and 41.

Preferably, these rotational and translational movements of the auxiliary drums 20 and 40 are carried out by the moving device 18, more specifically, the drum rotation units 32 and 44 and, respectively, the drum moving units 34 and 45 of this device.

In this preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, and by supplying at least three continuous elongate elements 27, 28 and 42, it is preferable to further increase the flexibility of manufacturing the tread band 5 so as to achieve the required characteristics of the tire 2.

Thus, for example, it is preferable that a tread band 5 can be formed in a preferred alternative embodiment of the invention, comprising a pair of radially superimposed layers of inner and outer respectively, according to a configuration known in the art as a “two-layer tread”.

According to this preferred embodiment of the invention, the tread band 5 is applied in the second operating position B by laying one of these continuous elongated elements 27 in a radially outward position relative to the second belt structure 4 held by the second auxiliary drum 20 along essentially its entire transverse length so as to form a radially inner layer of the tread band 5.

After this, the application of the tread band 5 involves laying the second continuous elongated element 28 in a radially outer position relative to at least one part of the radially inner layer of the formed tread band 5 in such a way as to form the corresponding first part of the radial-outer layer of the tread band 5 .

In this preferred embodiment of the invention, therefore, the laying of continuous elongated elements 27, 28 with adjacent annular turns arranged axially next to each other and / or radially superimposed is carried out in two successive steps.

In the framework of this embodiment of the invention, the method involves applying at least one second part of the radially outer layer of the tread band 5 in the third working position by laying in the said third working position C of the third continuous elongated element 42 in the radially outer position relative to the rest of the radially -internal layer of the tread band 5, more precisely, in an axially aligned position relative to the specified first part of the radially outer layer of the tread band b raslet 5 formed by the above second continuous elongated element 28, so as to form the specified second part of the radially outer layer of the tread band 5.

Thus, it is possible to form a tread band 5 of a “two-layer” type, provided with a radially outer layer comprising two or more sectors aligned along the axis, having specific mechanical characteristics according to a configuration that allows achieving many advantageous technical effects, for example, such as improved transverse resistance the stresses acting on the tread band 5 when using the tire 2, or the ability to maintain the grip characteristics of the tire 2 is essentially constant, to When the tread band 5 wears out.

In another preferred alternative embodiment of the invention, it is also preferable to form a tread band 5 provided with a radially inner layer comprising two or more axially aligned sectors having different mechanical characteristics.

According to this preferred alternative embodiment of the invention, the tread band 5 is applied in the second operating position B by laying one of the above continuous elongated elements, for example, a continuous elongated element 27, in a radially outward position relative to at least one part of the second belt structure 4 held by the second auxiliary drum, so as to form at least one first part of the radially inner its layer of the tread band 5.

After this, the application of the tread band 5 involves laying the second continuous elongated element 28, again in the second working position B, in a radially outward position relative to the specified second tape structure 4 and, more precisely, in an axis-aligned position relative to the specified first part in such a way to form at least one second part of the radially inner layer of the tread band.

Thus, it is possible to form a tread band 5 provided with a radially inner layer having at least two axially aligned parts or two sectors having different mechanical or chemical-physical characteristics.

In this preferred alternative embodiment of the invention, the laying of the continuous elongated elements 27, 28 can be carried out in the second operating position B either in sequential operations, or at least partially simultaneously.

After this, the operation of applying the tread band 5 involves laying in the third working position a third continuous elongated element 42 in a radially outer position relative to the radially inner layer having a plurality of axially aligned sectors of the tread band 5 essentially along the entire transverse extent of such a layer in such a way to form the radially outer layer of the tread band 5.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, it is possible to form a radially outer layer of the tread band 5 having two or more axially aligned parts or two sectors, similar to that described above, by applying at least one additional feed element of the corresponding continuous elongated an element located in the third working position C of the final paragraph 17 and adapted for working interaction with the third auxiliary drum 40.

Thus, it is possible to lay the continuous elongated element 42 in a radially outer position relative to at least one part of the radially inner layer of the tread band 5 held by the third auxiliary drum 40, so as to form at least one first part radially the detectable layer of the tread band 5.

After this, the operation of applying the tread band 5 involves laying this additional continuous elongated element always in the third working position C in a radially outer position relative to at least one other part of the radial-inner layer of the tread band 5, more precisely, in an axially aligned position relative to the specified first part of the radially outer layer of the tread band 5 formed by the third continuous elongated element 42, so as to form, on at least one second part of the radially outer layer of the tread band 5.

When these operations of assembling the first belt structure 4 on the first auxiliary drum 19 and applying the tread band 5 in a radially outer position relative to the second and third belt structures 4 previously assembled on the auxiliary drums 20 and 40 are completed, the method corresponding to the invention comprises the following operations:

- positioning the first auxiliary drum 19 holding the first tape structure 4, in the second working position B,

- positioning the second auxiliary drum 20 holding the second belt structure 4 and at least one part of the tread band 5 in the third operating position C, and

- positioning a third auxiliary drum 40 holding a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tread band 5 superimposed in a radially outward position relative to the third belt structure 4, in a pick-up position D of the finishing point 17.

As described above, in a preferred embodiment of the invention described with reference to the apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 3, the pickup position D of the substantially cylindrical sleeve thus manufactured is substantially the same as the first working position A.

According to the method of the invention, the above operations of positioning the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40, respectively: in the second operating position B, in the third operating position C and in the pickup position D are carried out at least partially simultaneously with each other.

In particular, such operations are preferably carried out by means of a moving device 18 by rotating it around a substantially vertical axis of rotation Y-Y by means of a drive unit 35, similar to what has been described with reference to the previous embodiments of the method and installation 1 according to the invention.

In this preferred embodiment, the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 are effectively moved substantially simultaneously by rotating the moving device 18 about a rotation axis Y-Y, preferably in one direction, for example, counterclockwise, as shown by arrow F2 in FIG. 3.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention and due to the fact that the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 are slidably held by the moving device 18, the method according to the invention in this case also includes the additional operation of translationally moving the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 to the YY axis rotation of the moving device 18 before performing the rotation operation of such a device.

In this case, also, this operation is preferably carried out by means of the nodes 33, 34 and 45 of the movement of the drum by moving and auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40, and the corresponding rotating nodes 31, 32 and 44, which, preferably, perform translational motion together with drums.

Thus, it is preferable to reduce both the transverse dimensions and the inertia forces when the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 are moved between the operating positions A, B and C with the improvement of the safety features of the installation 1 and with a decrease in the drive force required from the drive unit 35 for rotation moving device 18.

Preferably, the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 and the corresponding rotating nodes 31, 32 and 44 are moved to the rotation axis Y-Y of the moving device 18 and are located in the above-mentioned initial positions defined within the perimeter of the rotating carrier platform 39 of such a device.

Preferably, the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 of the moving device 18 are located in this case at a safe distance from the control unit 37 and from the operator 38 while rotating the moving device 18, as shown schematically by a dashed line in FIG. 3.

When these essentially simultaneous operations of positioning the first auxiliary drum 19 to the second operating position B, the second auxiliary drum 20 to the third operating position C and the third auxiliary drum to the pickup position D (first operating position A) are completed, the final item 17 is in the operating position, wherein:

I) a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a third belt structure 4 and a tread band 5, which must be removed from the third auxiliary drum 40, is in the pickup position D (coinciding with the operating position A) and is held by the third auxiliary drum 40;

II) the first tape structure 4, pre-assembled in the first working position A, is held by the first auxiliary drum 19 and is ready to receive at least one part of the new tread band 5 in the second working position B; and

III) the semi-finished product, including the second tape structure 4, pre-assembled in the first working position A, and the part of the tread band 5, previously superimposed in the second working position B, is held by the second auxiliary drum 20 and is ready to receive the rest (or additional part) of the tread band 5 in the third working position C.

At this point, the method according to the invention involves the operation of transferring a substantially cylindrical sleeve held by the third sub drum 40 from a position D of picking up the finishing point 17 to a radially outward position with respect to the frame structure 3, assembled in the meantime at the assembly point 14.

Preferably, this transfer operation is carried out using a substantially annular transmission device 36 according to the method described above.

After this transfer operation, the final point 17 is in working condition, in which the third auxiliary drum 40 is already located in the first working position A and is ready to hold the new tape structure 4 due to the working interaction with the overlay device 21 located in this working position A.

At this point, the method according to the invention provides for at least partially simultaneously performing the following operations:

- assembling a new tape structure 4 in the first working position A on the third auxiliary drum 40,

- overlaying at least one first part of the tread band 5 in the second working position B in a radially outer position relative to the first tape structure 4, pre-assembled on the first auxiliary drum 19; and

- the imposition of at least one second part of the tread band 5 in the second operating position C in a radially outer position relative to the second tape structure 4, assembled on the auxiliary drum 20.

When these operations are completed, the method according to the invention comprises at least partially simultaneously positioning the third auxiliary drum 40 holding the new belt structure 4 to the second operating position B, positioning the first auxiliary drum 19 holding the first belt structure and, at least one first part of the tread band 5, in the third operating position C and positioning of the second auxiliary drum 20 holding p essentially a cylindrical sleeve comprising a tread band 5 superimposed in a radially outer position relative to the second belt structure 4, in the position D of picking up the final paragraph 17.

At this point, the method according to the invention involves the operation of transferring a new substantially cylindrical sleeve, just manufactured and held by the second auxiliary drum 20, from the position D of picking up the finishing point 17 to the radially outward position relative to the new frame structure 3, assembled in the meanwhile in the assembly paragraph 14.

After this transfer operation, the final point 17 is in the working position, in which the second auxiliary drum 20 is already located in the first working position A and is ready to hold the new tape structure 4 due to the working interaction with the overlay device 21 located in this working position A.

At this point, the method corresponding to the invention involves performing at least partially simultaneously the following operations:

- assembling a new tape structure 4 in the first working position A on the second auxiliary drum 20,

- the imposition of at least one first part of the tread band 5 in the second working position B in a radially outer position relative to the tape structure 4, pre-assembled on the third auxiliary drum 40; and

- the imposition of at least one second part of the tread band 5 in the third operating position C in a radially outward position relative to the first belt structure 4 assembled on the first auxiliary drum 19.

When the above operations are completed, the method corresponding to the invention involves performing at least partially simultaneously the positioning operations of the second auxiliary drum 20 holding the new belt structure 4 to the second working position B, positioning the third auxiliary drum 40 holding the pre-assembled belt structure 4 and at least one first part of the tread band 5 in the third operating position C and positioning the first auxiliary about the drum 19, holding a substantially cylindrical sleeve, including a tread band 5, superimposed in a radially outer position relative to the first tape structure 4, in the position D of picking up the final paragraph 17.

At this point, the method according to the invention involves the operation of transferring a substantially cylindrical sleeve held by the first sub drum 19 from a position D of picking up the finishing point 17 to a radially outward position relative to the new frame structure 3 assembled in the assembly point 14.

When the above operations are completed, the final item 17 returns to the above initial operating condition.

At the end of each cyclic repetition of the above operations of assembling the band structure 4 / applying parts of the tread band 5 and rotating the moving device 18, a new substantially cylindrical sleeve is made including the band structure 4 and the tread band 5 held in the pickup position D (in this case, in working position A) one of the auxiliary drums 19, 20 and 40 of the final point.

Such a sleeve is then transferred from the pickup position D of the finishing point 17 to the radially outward position relative to the new frame structure 3 assembled in the assembly point 14 according to the method described above.

In this alternative embodiment of the invention, also the operations of manufacturing a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tread band 5 and a belt structure 4, and transferring such a sleeve from the pick-up position D of the end point 17, are preferably carried out in a time interval substantially equal to or less than the time performing the assembly operation of the frame structure 3 in the assembly point 14.

Thus, preferably, it is possible to optimize the time periods of the process and accordingly increase the productivity of the production plant 1.

In addition, in this alternative embodiment of the invention, the assembly of the substantially cylindrical sleeve including the tread band 5 and the band structure 4, with the frame structure 3 not yet formed into a toroidal configuration (otherwise referred to as the "frame sleeve"), is preferably carried out on the same primary drum 15 of the assembly point 14, which is used to assemble the frame sleeve, thereby obtaining a one-stage production process.

In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the method according to the invention may comprise applying the pickup in position D (for example, coinciding with the first working position A) to a radially outward position relative to the tape structure 4 held by the auxiliary drum 19, 20 or 40 located in it, an additional first or last continuous elongated element of crude elastomeric material according to the corresponding predetermined route so as to start and and complete the tread band 5 at position D the pick-up.

In this case, it is preferable that the tread band 5 can be formed using four or five different elastomeric materials supplied by the feeding elements 25, 26 located in the second operating position B and one or two feeding elements located in the third working position C and feeding an element located in position D pickup of the final paragraph 17.

Preferably, the overlay operation is carried out according to the methods described above, that is, by supplying such a continuous elongated element with an extruder an additional feeding element (not shown) located in the pickup position D (for example, coinciding with the first working position A) near the auxiliary drum 19, 20 or 40 located in it, and by winding a continuous elongated element on the specified drum, as described above.

Preferably, this additional supply element may be provided with an appropriate drive group (not shown) adapted to move such an element to (and away from) the auxiliary drum located in the pickup position D (for example, coinciding with the first working position A), thus so as not to interfere with subsequent operations of picking up a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a belt structure 4 and a tread band 5.

Based on the multiple tests carried out by the present applicant, it was found that the method and device corresponding to the invention, in their possible alternative embodiments, fully achieve the goal of manufacturing a high-quality tire, coordinating the different rates of performance of the assembly point for the manufacture of the frame structure and the final point intended for manufacturing according to a substantially cylindrical sleeve including a tape structure provided with a layer of reinforcing cords with zero slope and a tread a bracelet formed by winding coils of at least one continuous elongated element.

In addition, it should be noted that the method corresponding to the invention achieves the above goal due to the sequence of work operations that can be carried out using a structurally simple and easily controlled production plant.

Preferably, the production plant of the invention may be located downstream of the existing assembly point of the carcass structure, thereby increasing the productivity of the tire manufacturing equipment in which it is included.

In addition, it is preferable that the carcass sleeve and the sleeve are assembled from an external tape structure / tread band can be carried out on a single drum used to assemble the carcass sleeve to produce a one-step production process that makes it possible to maximize production equipment performance and tire quality performance.

Finally, it should be noted that the number of auxiliary drums and operating positions specified in the final paragraph 17 may be more than three, depending on the requirements for a particular application.

In this case, the auxiliary drums will preferably be held by the moving device 18 in positions with an angular offset relative to each other by an angle substantially equal to approximately 360 ° / n, where n is the total number of auxiliary drums.

In this case, the installation 1 contains a suitable number of stacking devices 21 for laying the tape layers and / or feeding elements for supplying the corresponding continuous elongated elements located in the operating positions specified in the final paragraph 17, for working interaction with auxiliary drums located there moving device eighteen.

Claims (57)

1. A method of manufacturing tires for wheels of vehicles, comprising the steps
a) assemblies at an assembly point (14) of a substantially cylindrical frame structure (3) comprising at least one frame layer (10) connected to the annular fixing structures (7) axially spaced from each other;
b) manufacturing in the final paragraph (17) a substantially cylindrical sleeve comprising a tread band (5) superimposed in a radially outward position relative to the tape structure (4) containing at least one tape layer (12), including reinforcing cords substantially parallel to the direction of the circumferential extension of the sleeve, said step b) comprising operations
b1) assembling the first tape structure (4) in the first working position (A) on the first auxiliary drum (19) of the final paragraph (17);
b2) applying a tread band (5) in at least one second working position (B) in a radially outer position relative to the second belt structure (4) pre-assembled on at least one second auxiliary drum (20) final item (17), and the application is carried out by laying according to the circular turns of a given route, at least one continuous elongated element (27, 28) of unvulcanized elastomeric material in the radially outer position of the relative but said second belt structure (4);
b3) positioning the first auxiliary drum (19) holding the first belt structure (4) in at least one second working position (B);
b4) positioning at least one second auxiliary drum (20) holding the thus obtained essentially cylindrical sleeve, in the position (D) of picking up the final paragraph (17);
c) transferring said substantially cylindrical sleeve from the pick-up position of the final point (17) to a radially outer position relative to the frame structure (3), assembled in the meantime at the assembly point (14);
and operations b1) to b4) are cyclically repeated;
moreover, operations b1) and b2) are carried out at least partially simultaneously with each other; and
moreover, operations b3) and b4) are carried out at least partially simultaneously with each other. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein step b) of manufacturing a substantially cylindrical sleeve is carried out by means of operations
b1) assemblies in the first operating position (A) of the first belt structure (4) on the first auxiliary drum (19) of the final point (17);
b2) overlapping in the second working position (B) of at least one first part of the tread band (5) in a radially outward position relative to the second belt structure (4) pre-assembled on the second auxiliary drum (20) of the final point; the overlay operation is carried out by laying according to the annular turns of a given route, at least one continuous elongated element (27, 28) from unvulcanized elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the second tape structure (4);
b5) overlapping in at least one operating position (C) of at least one second part of the tread band (5) in a radially outer position relative to the third tape structure (4) assembled on at least one third auxiliary drum (40) of the final paragraph (17); the overlay operation is carried out by laying, according to the annular turns of a given route, at least one continuous elongated element (42) from unvulcanized elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the third tape structure (4);
b6) positioning the first auxiliary drum (19) holding the first belt structure (4) in the second working position (B);
b7) positioning the second auxiliary drum (20) holding the second belt structure (4) and at least one part of the tread band (5) in said third operating position (C);
b8) positioning at least one third auxiliary drum (40) holding the thus obtained essentially cylindrical sleeve, in position (D) pick up the final paragraph (17);
moreover, operations b1), b2) and from b5) to b8) are cyclically repeated;
operations b1), b2) and b5) are performed at least partially simultaneously with each other; and
operations b6) to b8) are performed at least partially simultaneously with each other. 3. The method according to claim 2, in which operation b2) is carried out in at least one second working position (B) by laying the first continuous elongated element (27) from the unvulcanized elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to at least , one part of the second tape structure (4) so as to form the corresponding part of the radially inner layer of the tread band (5). 4. The method according to claim 3, in which operation b2) is carried out in at least one second working position (B) by laying the second continuous elongated element (28) in an axis-aligned position with respect to at least one part radially the inner layer of the tread band (5) formed by the first continuous elongated element (27) so as to form an additional part of the radially inner layer of the tread band (5). 5. The method according to claim 4, in which operation b5) is carried out by laying in at least one third working position (C) of at least one third continuous elongated element (42) from unvulcanized elastomeric material into a radially outer position relative to the radially inner layer of the tread band (5), essentially along its entire transverse extent so as to form a radial outer layer of the tread band (5). 6. The method according to claim 2, in which step b) further comprises an operation b10) of applying, according to a corresponding predetermined route, an additional continuous elongated element of unvulcanized elastomeric material in the pickup position (D) to the radially outer position relative to the third tape structure (4). 7. The method according to claim 6, in which operation b10) is carried out by feeding an additional continuous elongated element from the corresponding feeding element located in the pickup position (D) near one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) simultaneously with winding the continuous elongated element on one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40). 8. The method according to claim 7, in which operations b5) or b10) are performed by simultaneously performing the application of at least one continuous elongated element of the following operations:
d ') messages, to at least one third auxiliary drum (40), bearing the third belt structure (4), of rotational movement around its geometric axis in such a way as to distribute at least one continuous elongated element in a circle in a radially external position relative to the third tape structure (4);
e ') the implementation of controlled relative movements between at least the third auxiliary drum (40) and the feeding element for forming at least one continuous elongated element of a plurality of turns located next to each other, for the formation of at least one radially outer part of the tread band (5). 9. The method according to claim 1 or 2, in which operations b) and c) are carried out for a time interval essentially equal to or less than the time for the operation a) to assemble the frame structure (3). 10. The method according to claim 1 or 2, in which operation b1) comprises the following operations:
i) applying in a radially external position relative to the first auxiliary drum (19) one strip element of unvulcanized elastomeric material, comprising at least one reinforcing cord, to form axially adjacent annular turns essentially parallel to the direction of the circumferential extension of the sleeve . 11. The method according to claim 10, wherein said strip element (23) of unvulcanized elastomeric material is applied in a radially outer position relative to the second tape layer (11b). 12. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said operation b1) comprises the following operations:
ii) overlapping in a radially outer position relative to the first auxiliary drum (19) of the first tape layer (11a), including the first reinforcing cords, passing with an inclination relative to the direction of the circumferential extension of the sleeve; and
iii) overlays in a radially outer position relative to the first tape layer (11a) of the second tape layer (11b) containing the second reinforcing cords extending obliquely along an intersecting direction with respect to the first reinforcing cords. 13. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said operation b1) also comprises an operation
iv) applying an additional layer (13) of unvulcanized elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the tape layer (12), and the specified layer (13) contains many reinforcing cords. 14. The method according to claim 1 or 2, in which the operation b2) is carried out in at least one second working position (B) by laying in a radially outer position relative to the second tape structure (4) of the first (27) and second ( 28) a continuous elongated element of unvulcanized elastomeric material. 15. The method according to 14, in which the operation b2) is carried out in at least one second working position (B) by laying the first continuous elongated element (27) of unvulcanized elastomeric material in a radially outer position relative to the second tape structure ( 4) along essentially its entire transverse extent so as to form a radially inner layer of the tread band (5). 16. The method according to clause 15, in which operation b2) is carried out in at least one second working position (B) by laying the second continuous elongated element (28) in a radially outer position relative to at least one part radially -detect layer of the tread band (5) so as to form the corresponding part of the radially outer layer of the tread band (5). 17. The method according to clause 16, in which operation b5) is carried out by laying in at least one third working position (C) of at least one third continuous elongated element (42) of unvulcanized elastomeric material in axially aligned position relative to at least one part of the radially outer layer of the tread band (5) formed by the second continuous elongated element (28) so as to form an additional part of the radial outer layer of the tread band (5). 18. The method according to clause 16, wherein the first (27) and second (28) continuous elongated elements are laid on opposite sides of at least one second auxiliary drum (20). 19. The method according to 14, in which the operation b2) is carried out in at least one second working position (B) by laying the second continuous elongated element (28) in a radially outer position relative to the radially inner layer of the tread band (5 ), essentially, over its entire transverse extent so as to form a radially outer layer of the tread band (5). 20. The method according to 14, in which the operation b2) is carried out in at least one second working position (B) by laying the first continuous elongated element (27) in a radially outer position relative to at least one part of the second band design (4) so as to form the corresponding part of the tread band (5). 21. The method according to claim 20, in which operation b2) is carried out in at least one operating position (B) by laying the second continuous elongated element (28) in an axially aligned position relative to the part of the tread band (5) formed first continuous elongated element (27), so as to form an additional part of the tread band (5). 22. The method according to 14, in which the first (27) and second (28) continuous elongated elements are laid on opposite sides of at least one second auxiliary drum (20). 23. The method according to any one of claims 3-5, 15, 17, 19-21, wherein the first (27) and second (28) continuous elongated elements are stacked on opposite sides of at least one second auxiliary drum (20) . 24. The method according to claim 1 or 2, in which operations b2) and b5) are carried out by feeding continuous elongated elements (27, 28, 42) from the corresponding feeding elements (25, 26, 41) located in at least one second (B) and in at least one third (C) working position near at least one second (20) and at least one third (40) auxiliary drum, simultaneously with winding continuous elongated elements (27, 28, 42) onto the drums (20, 40). 25. The method according to paragraph 24, in which the supply of continuous elongated elements (27, 28, 42) is carried out by extrusion through the feed elements (25, 26, 41). 26. The method according to paragraph 24, in which operation b2) is performed by simultaneously performing the application of at least one continuous elongated element (27, 28, 42) of the following steps:
d) communicating to at least one auxiliary drum (20) supporting the second belt structure (4) of rotational movement around its geometric axis in such a way as to distribute at least one continuous elongated element around the circumference (27, 28, 42) in a radially outer position relative to the second tape structure (4);
e) performing controlled relative movements between the at least one second auxiliary drum (20) and the feeding element (25, 26, 41) to form at least one continuous elongated element (27, 28, 42) of many turns, located next to each other, for the formation of at least one part of the tread band (5). 27. The method according to p. 26, in which the movement is carried out by moving the second auxiliary drum (20) relative to the feed element (25, 26, 41). 28. The method according to paragraph 24, in which operations b5) or b10) are performed by simultaneously performing the application of at least one continuous elongated element of the following operations:
d ') a message to at least one third auxiliary drum (40) supporting the third tape structure (4) of rotational movement around its geometric axis in such a way as to distribute at least one continuous elongated element in a circle in a radially external position relative to the third tape structure (4);
e ') the implementation of controlled relative movements between the at least third auxiliary drum (40) and the feeding element for forming at least one continuous elongated element of a plurality of turns located next to each other, for the formation of at least one radially outer part of the tread band (5). 29. The method according to p, in which the movement is carried out by moving the third auxiliary drum (40) relative to the feed element (25, 26, 41). 30. The method according to p. 26 or 28, in which steps d), e) and operations d) and e ') are carried out using a moving device (18) acting on at least one second (20) or, respectively, at least one second (20) and at least one third (40) auxiliary drum. 31. The method according to item 30, in which the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) are held by a moving device (18), essentially turret type in positions with angular displacement relative to each other, and in which operations b3) and b4) or b6) to b8) are carried out by rotating the moving device (18) around a substantially vertical axis of rotation (YY). 32. The method according to p, in which at least one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) is slidably held by a moving device (18), and in which the method includes an additional operation of translational movement of at least one auxiliary drum (19, 20, 40) to the axis (YY) of rotation of the moving device (18) before performing the rotation operation of the specified device (18). 33. The method according to claim 1, wherein step b) also comprises step b9) applying, according to the annular turns of a predetermined route, a third continuous elongated element of unvulcanized elastomeric material in the pickup position (D) in a radially outward position relative to the second tape structure (4) . 34. The method according to claim 33, wherein step b9) is carried out by supplying an additional continuous elongated element from a corresponding feeding element located in the pickup position (D) near the second auxiliary drum (20), simultaneously with winding the continuous elongated element on the drum (20 ) 35. The method according to clause 34, in which operations b5) or b10) are performed by simultaneously performing the application of at least one continuous elongated element of the following operations:
d) communicating to at least one third auxiliary drum (40) supporting the third belt structure (4) about its geometric axis rotationally in such a way as to distribute at least one continuous elongated element in a circumference to the radially outer position relative to the third tape structure (4);
e) the implementation of controlled relative movements between the at least third auxiliary drum (40) and the feeding element for forming at least one continuous elongated element of a plurality of turns located adjacent to each other, for the formation of at least one radially -the detectable part of the tread band (5). 36. The method according to claim 1 or 2, in which the operating positions (A, B, C) of the final paragraph (17) are offset at an angle to each other. 37. The method according to clause 36, in which the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) are held by a moving device (18), essentially turret type in positions with angular displacement relative to each other, and in which operations b3) and b4) or b6) to b8) are carried out by rotating the moving device (18) around a substantially vertical axis of rotation (YY). 38. The method according to claim 1 or 2, in which the position (D) of picking up the cylindrical sleeve essentially coincides with the working position (A). 39. The method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising, after operation c) the operation of forming the frame structure (3) into a substantially toroidal configuration so as to connect it to a substantially cylindrical sleeve transferred to a radially outer position relative to the frame structure (3).
a substantially cylindrical sleeve transferred to a radially outer position relative to the frame structure (3). 40. Installation (1) for the manufacture of tires for vehicle wheels, containing
a) an assembly point (14) for assembling a substantially cylindrical frame structure (3) comprising at least one frame layer (10) connected to the annular fixing structures (7) axially spaced from each other;
b) the final paragraph (17) for the manufacture of a substantially cylindrical sleeve containing a tread band (5) superimposed in a radially outer position relative to the tape structure (4) containing at least one tape layer (12), including reinforcing cords essentially parallel to the direction of the circumferential extension of the sleeve, and the final paragraph (17) contains
b1) a first auxiliary drum (19);
b2) at least one second auxiliary drum (20);
b3) a moving device (18) adapted to hold the auxiliary drums (19, 20) and to position the auxiliary drums (19, 20) in the first working position (A), in which the belt structure (4) is assembled, at least one second working position (B), in which a tread band (5) is applied, and to the pickup position (D) of the substantially cylindrical sleeve; the first (A) and at least one second (B) operating position is set in different zones of the final paragraph (17);
b4) at least one element (22) for supplying a strip element of unvulcanized elastomeric material, comprising at least one reinforcing cord located in the first working position (A), for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20 );
b5) no less than one feeding element (25, 26) for laying according to the annular turns of a continuous elongated element (27, 28) of unvulcanized elastomeric material located in at least one second working position (B) for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20);
c) at least one means (36) for transmitting a substantially cylindrical sleeve made in the final paragraph (17), adapted for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20) in the pick-up point (D), for transmission essentially cylindrical sleeve in a radially outer position relative to the frame structure (3), assembled in the Assembly point (14). 41. Installation (1) according to claim 40, further comprising
b6) at least one third auxiliary drum (40) held by the moving device (18);
b7) at least one second feeding element (41) for laying according to the annular turns of a continuous elongated element (42) of unvulcanized elastomeric material located in at least one third working position (C) for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40). 42. Installation (1) according to paragraph 41, further comprising at least two feed elements of corresponding continuous elongated elements of unvulcanized elastomeric material located in at least one third working position (C), for working interaction on opposite sides of one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40). 43. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, further comprising at least one means (24) for feeding the tape layers located in the first working position (A) for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20 , 40). 44. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, comprising at least one additional means for supplying a tape layer (13) containing a plurality of reinforcing cords located in the first working position (A) for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40). 45. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, further comprising at least one third feed element for laying according to the annular turns of the corresponding third continuous elongated element of unvulcanized elastomeric material, located in the pickup position (D) for working interaction with one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40). 46. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, in which the elements (25, 26, 41) for supplying continuous elongated elements (27, 28, 42) contain at least one extruder (29, 30, 43). 47. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, wherein the moving device (18) comprises at least one drum rotation unit (31, 32, 44) adapted to rotate the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) around their geometric axis. 48. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, wherein the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) are slidingly held by the moving device (18). 49. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, in which the moving device (18) contains at least one node (33, 34, 45) of the translational movement of the drum, adapted to carry out controlled axial movements of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) in the operating positions (A, B, C) or in the pickup position (D). 50. Installation (1) according to § 49, in which the node (33, 34, 35) of the translational movement of the drum of the moving device (18) translates the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) between the operating positions (A, B, C ) or the position (D) of the pickup and the initial position defined between the specified operating positions (A, B, C) or the position (D) of the pickup and the axis (YY) of rotation of the moving device (18). 51. Installation (1) according to claim 50, wherein the transfer device (18) is essentially a turret type device and is adapted to hold auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) in positions with angular displacement relative to each other. 52. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, wherein the transfer device (18) is essentially a turret type device and is adapted to hold auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40) in positions with angular displacement relative to each other. 53. Installation (1) according to paragraph 52, further comprising at least one drive unit (35) adapted to rotate the moving device (18) around a substantially vertical axis (Y-Y) of rotation. 54. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, further comprising at least two feed elements (25, 26) for supplying corresponding continuous elongated elements (27, 28) from unvulcanized elastomeric material located in at least one second working position (B) for working interaction on opposite sides of one of the auxiliary drums (19, 20, 40). 55. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, in which the position (D) of picking up the cylindrical sleeve essentially coincides with the first working position (A). 56. Installation (1) according to claim 40 or 41, further comprising at least one device for forming the frame structure (3) in accordance with a substantially toroidal shape so as to connect a substantially cylindrical sleeve, comprising a belt structure (4) and a tread band (5), with a frame structure (3). 57. Equipment for the manufacture of tires for vehicle wheels, comprising a production unit (1) according to claim 40 or 41 and at least one vulcanization unit for vulcanizing tires obtained in a production unit (1).

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