SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GRIPPING AND HANDLING A TIRE BEAD APEX

摘要

A system (20) for handling a bead apex (80) comprises a first jaw (40) having open and closed states, which is configured to engage a first surface of the bead apex in the closed state. The system further comprises a second jaw (30) having open and closed states, and a plurality of grippers (32) coupled to the second jaw (30). Selected ones of the plurality of grippers (32) are configured to engage a second surface of the bead apex in the closed state of the second jaw. Further, at least one of the plurality of grippers (32) comprises a tapered end surface (38).