APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR ALIGNING TREADS DURING TIRE RETREADING OPERATIONS

摘要

Embodiments of the invention include methods and apparatus for constraining a tread in a desired arrangement about a tire carcass during retreading operations. Such methods include providing an annular tire carcass configured for receiving a tread and arranging a tread annularly about the precured tire carcass in a desired position. Such methods include constraining the tread in the desired position by arranging a tread alignment fixture about an outer side of the tread. In particular embodiments, the fixture comprises a body comprising one or more members arranged annularly about a central axis, the one or more members having a width extending axially relative the central axis and one or more tread-engaging protrusions extending radially inward relative the central axis and lengthwise in a circumferential direction.