METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR INSTALLING A TREAD RING UPON A TIRE CARCASS

摘要

Exemplary embodiments of the subject invention comprise methods and apparatus for mounting a tread ring onto a tire carcass. Such methods may include the step of providing an annular tread ring having a tread width extending laterally between opposing side edges; engaging the annular tread ring about each opposing side edge at locations distal from a lateral centerline of the tread width; expanding the tread ring radially outward from an initial arrangement to an expanded arrangement at the engaged locations about the side edges of the tread ring; arranging the expanded tread ring about an outer side of a tire carcass; and contracting the tread ring into an installed arrangement about the outer side of the tire carcass, whereby the lateral centerline of the tread width on an inner side of the tread ring engages the tire carcass before the tread ring side edges engage the tire carcass.