WO2024175708A1

WO2024175708A1 - Method, inspection unit and computer program product for inspecting an inner surface of a tire, and tire processing assembly comprising the inspection unit

Info

Publication number: WO2024175708A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/054514
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hemmeterius Bernardus BROEK; Djorro Frans BLEIJ; Stefan Dick FRIJNTS; Clemens Jozef Anton Elferink
Original assignee: VMI Holland BV
Current assignee: VMI Holland BV
Priority date: 2023-02-23
Filing date: 2024-02-22
Publication date: 2024-08-29
Anticipated expiration: 2025-08-23
Also published as: NL2034216B1; CN118533865A; EP4669536A1; KR20250151518A; JP2025512214A; CN222671717U

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for inspecting an inner surface of a tire having a splice that extends along said inner surface in a splice direction transverse to the circumferential direction of the tire, wherein the method comprises scanning the splice with an imaging device while moving the field of view of said imaging device along the splice. The invention further relates to an inspection unit for inspecting an inner surface of a tire according to the method of the invention, wherein the inspection unit comprises a base, an imaging device and a drive assembly for driving a movement of said imaging device with respect to the base in an inspection plane and for driving a rotation of the imaging device about a rotation axis perpendicular to said inspection plane.

Description

Method, inspection unit and computer program product for inspecting an inner surface of a tire , and tire processing assembly comprising the inspection unit

BACKGROUND

The invention relates to a method, an inspection unit and a computer program product for inspecting an inner surface of tire , in particular for inspecting a splice of an inner liner of a green tire . The invention further relates to a processing assembly for processing a tire, wherein said processing assembly comprises the inspection unit according to the present invention .

US 11 , 198 , 339 B2 discloses an apparatus for detecting and checking defects on a tire at the end of a production process . The apparatus comprises a workstation having a workbench with a rotating table for supporting a tire ; a profilometer ; a high-resolution color linear camera for scanning outer surfaces of tire tread and tire shoulders ; mechanical supports for the profilometer and color linear camera ; a data processor for storing and processing data detected by the profilometer and the color linear camera, for providing a three-dimensional model of a tire, and for management of a database including parameters referring to surface characteristics of defect-free tires ; and an interface for facilitating interaction between an operator and the apparatus . The profilometer and the color linear camera are configured to operate simultaneously and perform a full scan of all the profiles of inner and outer surfaces of a tire while the tire is in rotation at a controlled speed on the rotating table . The data processor is adapted to define and classify defects detected, by comparing parameters detected by the profilometer and the color linear camera to at least one corresponding parameter of a defect-free tire of a same type as a tire being tested .

EP1043578B1 discloses an inspection apparatus for tires in which a tire is supported on a positioning device and in which a measuring head is supported on a portal above said positioning device . A holder extending downwards from the portal for the measuring head can be travelled biaxially on the and along an axis perpendicular thereto . Furthermore, the holder can be rotated around its longitudinal axis or around an axis perpendicular to the contact surface of the positioning device for the tyre . The measuring head can be moved up and down along the holder . The vertical adj ustability of the measuring head can also be performed by an adj ustment of the holder itself , in particular by a longitudinal setting of the holder . The measuring head is furthermore swivellably attached around an axis to the holder .

EP1043578B1 further discloses an inspection apparatus in which three measuring heads are provided of which two inspect the inner side of the tyre casing and one its outer side . The measuring heads are attached to a holder which is supported on a portal . The holder is vertically adj ustable and rotatable around its longitudinal axis . The measuring heads are each attached multi-axially adj ustably to the holder . On the one hand, they can be travelled along radial axes , i . e . they are settable in their distance to the holder . In this way, the inspection apparatus can be set or adapted to di fferent tyre diameters . Furthermore , all measuring heads are swivellably supported in each case around a swivel axis on the beam by means of which they are connected to the holder . The swivel axes of the measuring heads extend preferably tangentially to imaginary circles around the axis of rotation of the tyre . Furthermore, for the inspection of the inner side of the tyre, the measuring heads are vertically adj ustable relative to the holder along the axes which extend parallel to the adj ustment axis of the holder . The measuring heads can therefore be vertically adj usted together by means of the holder; furthermore, a vertical adj ustment of the measuring heads can be effected relative to the holder .

The exhaustive adj ustability of the measuring heads separately from one another or simultaneously with one another allows , on the one hand, an optimum adj ustment of the single measuring heads to the tyre section to be inspected in each case . On the other hand, after an individual adj ustment, the tyre can be travelled over with a rotation of the holder through its longitudinal axis .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A disadvantage of the known apparatuses for detecting and checking defects is that scanning of the entire tire is time consuming . Moreover, a lot of data needs to be collected in order to provide workable data in all three dimensions .

Additionally, scanning the entire tire requires placing the tire on a separate rotating table or positioning device . Placing the tire on the rotating table or positioning device may introduce inaccuracies in the placement of the tire relative to the profilometers and cameras . Moreover, the tire needs to be flipped on the rotating table in order to be able to scan all surfaces of the tire . Said flipping may introduce further inaccuracies which make it di fficult to correlate the measurement from the two sides and may further delay the inspection process .

It is an obj ect of the present invention to provide a method, an inspection unit, a tire processing assembly comprising said inspection unit , and a computer program product for inspecting an inner surface of tire , which can inspect a green tire more efficiently and/or more precisely .

According to a first aspect , the invention provides a method for inspecting an inner surface of a tire having a splice that extends along said inner surface in a splice direction transverse to the circumferential direction of the tire, wherein the method comprises scanning the splice with an imaging device while moving the field of view of said imaging device along the splice .

Defects or irregularities at the inner surface of the green tire are often located at or near the splice . Because the field of view of the imaging device is moved along the splice , i . e . following the direction of the splice, while scanning the inner surface of the tire, said splice can be scanned and/or inspected more precisely, more accurately, or more effectively . Moreover, the need to scan the entire circumference or perimeter of the inner surface of tire is eliminated . Accordingly, the inner surface of the tire can be scanned without rotating the tire about the central axis thereof . Hence , the tire does not need to be laid down for scanning . Additionally, the tire does not need to be flipped or turned over . Thus , the splice can be scanned or inspected more effectively and/or efficiently .

In an embodiment thereof , the method comprises scanning the splice with the imaging device while moving the field of view of said imaging device along a distinct number of inspection paths along the inner surface of the tire . Hence, the complex contour of the inner surface of the tire can be subdivided into a plurality of inspection paths . In other words , the method can allow the imaging device to inspect the inner surface of the tire by moving said imaging device along a sequence, series or superposition of inspection paths . Each inspection path can accurately represent a portion of the inner surface of the tire without the need to replicate the entire contour of the inner surface of the tire . Accordingly, said inspection paths can be defined in basic and/or elemental movements of the imaging device . Hence, moving the imaging device along the splice can be simpli fied . Accordingly, the imaging device can be moved along the splice more effectively . Preferably, said inspection paths at least partly overlap with the splice . Hence, the splice can be effectively inspected by moving the field of view along the distinct number of inspection paths . In a further embodiment , moving the field of view of the imaging device along each one of the distinct number of inspection paths comprises : a) moving the imaging device from an initial inspection position to a consecutive inspection position; and/ or b) rotating a viewing direction of the field of view of the imaging device from an initial inspection angle to a consecutive inspection angle about a rotation axis extending transverse to the splice direction . In other words , the field of view can be moved along a respective inspection path by either moving the imaging device or by rotating the viewing direction or by both moving the imaging device and rotating the viewing direction . Hence, a respective inspection path can be defined by an initial inspection position and a consecutive inspection position and/or by an initial inspection position and a consecutive inspection position only . Accordingly, said inspection positions and/or inspection angles can be adj usted to accurately or precisely follow the shape of a section or portion of the inner surface of the tire . Preferably, the inspection positions are predetermined based on a configuration and/or shape of the tire . In particular, each inspection position can be set at a predetermined distance from the inner surface of the tire , e . g . within the focus range of the imaging device . Hence, the imaging device can scan or inspect the splice more accurately or precisely along each inspection path .

In an embodiment thereof , the inspection paths of the distinct number of inspection paths are consecutive inspection paths . Preferably, the consecutive inspection position of a first inspection path is the initial inspection position of a consecutive inspection path, and the consecutive inspection angle of a first inspection path is the initial inspection angle of a consecutive inspection path . In other words , said inspection paths may be adj acent or adj oining inspection paths . Alternatively, said inspection paths may partially overlap . The inspection paths can be combined or superposed to perform a scan along the splice of the tire .

In a further, preferred embodiment, in step a ) , the imaging device is moved linearly from the initial inspection position to the consecutive inspection position .

In a further embodiment, steps a) and b ) are performed simultaneously for moving the field of view of the imaging device along a respective one of the distinct number of inspection paths . Preferably, the viewing direction of the field of view is gradually rotated from the initial inspection angle to the consecutive inspection angle while the imaging device is moved from the initial inspection position to the consecutive inspection position . In other words , the rotation of the viewing direction can be linked to the movement of the imaging device for a respective inspection path . Hence , the scanning of the splice along a respective inspection path can be more even or uni form. Alternatively, the imaging apparatus may for example first be moved into an inspection position, after which the viewing direction is rotated while scanning the inner surface of the tire .

In a further embodiment , the initial inspection positions and consecutive inspection positions for each of the inspection paths of the distinct number of inspection paths are located in a common inspection plane . In other words , the method comprises moving the inspection unit within said inspection plane . Preferably, the rotation axis extends perpendicular to the inspection plane . In other words , the field of view of the inspection unit is directed in the inspection plane as well . Accordingly, the resulting inspections paths of the field of view can extend in the inspection plane as well .

In a further embodiment, the method comprises choosing the first inspection position and the one or more further inspection positions such that at least a part of the splice extends parallel to, substantially parallel to or in the inspection plane . Preferably, the imaging device has a field of view that is symmetric with respect to the inspection plane . Hence, the field of view can be centered at or near the splice . Accordingly, the splice can be scanned or inspected more accurately or precisely .

In a further embodiment , the method further comprises calibrating the inspection paths of the distinct number of inspection paths before scanning the splice, wherein the calibrating comprises the steps of : moving the field of view of the imaging device along a respective inspection path of the distinct number of inspection paths ; determining, for said respective inspection path, a mutual distance between the imaging device and the inner surface of the tire ; and adj usting the respective initial and consecutive inspection positions and/or the respective initial and consecutive inspection angles when said mutual distance is outside a predetermined range . A distance outside the predetermined reference range can for example indicate an error in the shape or configuration of the tire or an ill chosen inspection position and/or inspection angle . Accordingly, the configuration of the tire, the inspection positions and/or the inspection angles can be adj usted when said distance is not within the predetermined range . The predetermined range can for example comprise the focus distance or focus range of the imaging device . The calibration can improve the accuracy and/or precision of the inspection . The calibration can be performed by adj usting individual inspection positions and/or inspection angles . Hence, it is not necessary to recalculate the entire traj ectory of the imaging unit . Hence, calibration can be performed more effectively .

Preferably, the calibration is performed on a first tire op a series of tires with the same configuration . Hence , a single calibration of the inspection positions can be performed on said first tire to calibrate the inspection positions for all tires within the series of tires . Hence, the process ef ficiency can be improved . In a further embodiment thereof , the calibrating further comprises the steps of : determining a mutual distance between the inspection plane and the splice ; pivoting the inspection plane about a pivot axis when said mutual distance is outside a predetermined range . Hence, an angle of the inspection plane relative to the splice can be corrected . In other words , the inspection plane can be aligned or substantially aligned with the splice . Thus , the accuracy and/or precision of the inspection of the splice can be improved .

In a further embodiment, the distinct number of inspection paths is within a range from one to nineteen, preferably within a range from four to fourteen, more preferably in a range from seven to nine . Said number of inspection paths can be large enough to accurately scan the inner surface of the tire along the splice . Moreover, said number of inspection paths can be small enough to effectively and/or efficiently scan said inner surface of the tire .

In a further embodiment, the movement of the imaging device along the splice is computer controlled and/or automated . In other words , the imaging device can automatically be moved into the subsequent inspection positions and rotated into the subsequent inspection angles . Hence, the inner surface of the tire can be inspected more effectively and/or efficiently .

In a further embodiment, the method comprises supporting the tire in an upright orientation while inspecting the inner surface . In said upright orientation, the central axis of the tire extends in or substantially in the horizontal direction . The tire can for example be inspected while being transported in the upright orientation . Hence, process efficiency can be further improved .

According to a second aspect , the invention relates to an inspection unit for inspecting an inner surface of a tire according to the steps of the method of the first aspect of the invention, wherein the inspection unit comprises a base, an imaging device and a drive assembly for driving a movement of said imaging device with respect to the base in an inspection plane and for driving a rotation of the imaging device about a rotation axis perpendicular to said inspection plane, wherein the inspection unit further comprises a control unit that is operationally connected to the drive assembly for controlling the movement of the imaging device with respect to the base in the inspection plane and for controlling the rotation of the imaging device about the rotation axis , wherein the control unit is configured for controlling the drive assembly to subsequently position the imaging device at a distinct number of predetermined inspection positions in the inspection plane and associated inspection angles about the rotation axis .

The inspection unit is arranged for carrying out the method according to the first aspect of the invention . Hence, said inspection unit has the same advantages as discussed above . In particular, the inspection unit can move and rotate the field of view of the imaging device within the inspection plane . Hence , said inspection unit can be used to follow the splice on the inner surface of the tire when said tire is provided in a suitable orientation, e . g . when the inspection plane intersects with a radial plane of the tire . In particular, the inspection unit can move the field of view of the imaging device along a discrete number of consecutive inspection paths by subsequently positioning the imaging device in two or more inspection positions and/or by rotating the imaging device into two or more inspection angles . The control unit can comprise a database with predetermined inspection positions . Said inspection positions can for example be dependent on a configuration and/or dimension of the tire .

In an embodiment thereof , the control unit is further operationally connected to the imaging device, wherein the control unit is configured for using the imaging device to scan the inner surface of the tire while moving the imaging device between the predetermined inspection positions and/or between the associated inspection angles . In other words , the imaging device can scan the inner surface of the tire while moving said imaging device in the inspection plane . More particularly, the imaging device can scan the splice while moving along said splice .

In a further embodiment, the control unit is arranged for controlling the drive assembly to gradually rotate the imaging device about the rotation axis from an initial inspection angle to a consecutive inspection angle while moving said imaging device from an initial inspection position to a consecutive inspection position .

In a further embodiment thereof , an initial inspection angle and a consecutive inspection angle are the same for an associated initial inspection position and a consecutive inspection position different from the initial inspection position . In other words , the control unit can be arranged to move the imaging device between two consecutive or subsequent inspection positions without rotating the imaging device .

In a further embodiment thereof , an initial inspection position and a consecutive inspection position are the same for an associated initial inspection angle and a consecutive inspection angle dif ferent from the initial inspection angle . In other words , the control unit can be arranged to rotate the imaging device between consecutive inspection angles without translating said imaging device .

In a further embodiment, the distinct number of predetermined inspection positions and associated inspection angles is within a range from two to twenty, preferably in a range from five to fifteen, more preferably in a range from eight to ten . Said number of inspection paths can be large enough to accurately scan the inner surface of the tire along the splice . Moreover, said number of inspection paths can be small enough to effectively and/or ef ficiently scan said inner surface of the tire .

In a further embodiment, the inspection unit is arranged to measure a distance between said imaging device and the inner surface of the tire .

In a further embodiment , the imaging device is movable with respect to the base along the inspection plane in a first direction and a second direction transverse or perpendicular to said first direction . In other words , the inspection plane is spanned by the first direction and the second direction . By moving the imaging device in the first direction and the second direction, said imaging device can be placed in any desired position in the inspection plane . Moreover, by moving the imaging device in the first and the second direction, the imaging device can be inserted through one of the openings of the tire and into the internal or enclosed volume of said tire .

In a further embodiment thereof , the drive assembly is pivotable with respect to the base about a pivot axis extending in the first direction for pivoting the inspection plane with respect to the base . In other words , the angular position of the inspection plane with respect to the base can be adj usted . Hence, the angular position of the inspection plane can be adj usted to an angle of a splice with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire . Accordingly, the imaging device can be displaced along said splice more precisely . Hence, the splice can be inspected more accurately .

In a preferred embodiment , the first direction is the vertical direction . Accordingly, the inspection plane is a vertical plane . Moving the imaging device in a vertical plane may facilitate inspecting tires in an upright orientation .

In a further embodiment , the drive assembly comprises a first member that is movable with respect to the base and a second member that is movable with respect to the first member, wherein the imaging device is rotatably mounted to the second member for rotation about the rotation axis . Preferably, the drive assembly further comprises a first linear drive for driving a movement of the first member with respect to the base in the first direction and a second linear drive for driving a movement of the second member with respect to the first member in the second direction . Hence, the imaging device can be moved in the first direction and the second direction and rotated about the rotation axis independently .

In a further embodiment , the drive assembly further comprises a rotation drive for driving the rotation of the imaging device about the rotation axis . In other words , the imaging device can be rotated about the rotation axis independent of the movement of the imaging device in the inspection plane .

In an embodiment thereof , the rotation drive is a belt drive comprising a plurality of pulleys and a belt that is guided along said plurality of pulleys , wherein the plurality of pulleys comprises an actuation pulley that is coupled in rotation to the imaging device . Preferably, the actuation pulley is rotatable about the rotation axis . Hence, the imaging device can be rotated by driving the belt along the pulleys . Preferably, said belt is an endless belt that is looped around the pulleys . Preferably, the belt is a toothed belt . A toothed belt can impart a rotation on the actuation pulley more accurately and/or precisely .

In a further embodiment, the plurality of pulleys comprises a driven pulley for driving the belt , wherein the driven pulley is located at the first member or at the base . Hence, the rotation drive can affect a rotation of the imaging device about the rotation axis without the need to mount a motor or drive on to the second member . Thus , less weight is added to the second member and less force is required to displace said second member . Accordingly, the second member and the imaging device mounted thereto can be displaced more accurately, precisely and/or efficiently .

In a further, preferred embodiment, the imaging device has a field of view between twenty-five and forty-five degrees , preferably between thirty and forty degrees . Preferably, said field of view is determined in a direction perpendicular to the inspection plane . The field of view is directed in and/or centered about a viewing direction . Preferably, the field of view is centered with respect to the inspection plane , i . e . the viewing direction extends in the inspection plane .

In a further embodiment , the imaging device comprises a laser emitter for proj ecting a laser line on the inner surface of the tire and a camera for capturing an image of said laser line . Preferably, the imaging device is arranged to proj ect the laser line on the inner surface of the tire such that said laser line extends perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the inspection plane . A laser emitter and camera can be a suitable setup for imaging or scanning the profile of the inner surface of the tire, in particular the splice on said inner surface .

According to a third aspect , the invention provides a processing assembly for processing a tire, wherein the processing assembly comprises the inspection unit according to the second aspect of the present invention, wherein the processing assembly further comprises one or more support members for supporting the tire in a support position relative to the inspection unit in which the inspection plane intersects with the tire when the tire is in the support position .

The processing assembly comprises the inspection unit according to the preceding claims and, hence, inherently has the same advantages as described above .

In an embodiment thereof , the inspection unit is positionable relative to the one or more support members in an inspection position in which the inspection plane extends perpendicular to or at an oblique angle with respect to a central plane of the tire, when the tire is in the support position . Accordingly, the inspection plane can be positioned to extend along the splice of the tire . Hence, the inspection unit can move the imaging device along the splice more accurately and/or precisely .

In an embodiment thereof , the inspection unit is pivotable relative to one or more support members about a pivot axis to adj ust an angle between the inspection plane and the central plane . Hence, the inspection plane can be adj usted to an angle of the splice . Accordingly, the inspection plane can be positioned along the splice more accurately . Hence, the splice can be tested more accurately and/or precisely .

In a further embodiment, the tire is arranged in an upright or vertical orientation in the support position . The tire may for example be supported or suspended on the inner rim or on the outer surface, i . e . the thread surface, thereof . The upright orientation can allow the imaging device of the inspection unit to be inserted through an opening of said tire in a horizontal or substantially hori zontal direction . In the upright orientation the tire does not need to be supported on the side wall . Hence, deformations of the tire can be reduced or prevented . Accordingly, the sidewall can be monitored more accurately and/or precisely .

In a further embodiment, the processing assembly further comprises a transport device for transporting the tire along a transport path, wherein the transport device comprises the one or more support members for supporting the tire, wherein the inspection unit is arranged along said transport path . Preferably, the inspection unit is arranged to inspect a tire on the transport device without removing said tire from the transport device . Hence , the tires can be inspected during transportation thereof . In other words , no separate inspection station for inspecting the tires is required . Accordingly all tires can be inspected during the production process . Hence , the tires inspection can be performed

In a further embodiment thereof , the transport device is arranged for transporting the tire in an upright orientation . The tires may for example be supported or suspended on the inner rim or on the outer surface, i . e . the thread surface , thereof . The upright orientation can allow the imaging device of the inspection unit to be inserted through an opening of said tire in a horizontal or substantially horizontal direction .

According to a fourth aspect, the invention provides a computer program product comprising instructions for making the inspection unit according to the second aspect of the present invention or the processing assembly according to the third aspect of the invention perform the method according to the first aspect of the present invention .

The various aspects and features described and shown in the specification can be applied, individually, wherever possible . These individual aspects , in particular the aspects and features described in the attached dependent claims , can be made subj ect of divisional patent applications .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be elucidated on the basis of an exemplary embodiment shown in the attached schematic drawings , in which : figures 1A-1F show a plan view of an assembly for handling a tire according to the present invention comprising an inspection unit according to the present invention; figures 2A-2G show a side view of the inspection unit of the present invention according to the line I I- I I in figure ID during exemplary steps of inspecting the tire ; figure 3 shows a section view of the inspecting unit according to the line IV- IV in figure 2D; figures 4A and 4B show a section view of the inspecting unit according to the line V-V in figure 3 during further exemplary steps of inspecting a tire ; figures 5A and 5B shows exemplary steps of a method of laying down a tire using a lay down device according to an embodiment of the present invention; and figures 6A and 6B show exemplary steps of a method of laying down a tire using an alternative lay down device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figures 1A- 1F show a plan view or top view of a processing assembly 10 for processing a tire 9 , in particular a green or unvulcanized tire, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention .

As is best seen in figures 2A-2G, the tire 9 has a generally cylindrical or toroid shape extending circumferentially and/or concentrically about a tire axis X . In particular, the tire 9 has a C-shaped, a U-shaped, or a substantially C-shaped or substantially U-shaped cross section that extends in a circumferential direction C about the tire axis X . The tire 9 further defines a central plane U . Said central plane U extends perpendicular to the tire axis X . preferably, the central plane U is a plane of symmetry .

The tire 9 comprises a first lateral side 93 and a second lateral side 94 on opposite sides of the tire 9 in a lateral direction that extends parallel to the tire axis X . In other words , the first lateral side 93 and the second lateral side 94 are located on opposite sides of the central plane U . The tire 9 has two circular or substantially circular openings 90 in the respective lateral sides 93 , 94 . The openings 90 extend concentrically or circumferentially about the tire axis X .

The tire 9 further has an outer surface 92 facing radially outward with respect to the tire axis X . Said outer surface may for example be formed by a tread layer (not shown) . The outer surface 92 extends circumferentially and/or concentrically about tire axis X . The tire 9 further comprises an inner surface 91 facing radially inward, i . e . said inner surface 91 faces towards the tire axis X . The inner surface 91 and the lateral sides 93 , 94 define an internal volume V of the tire 9. In this particular example , the inner surface is at least partly formed by an inner liner . The inner liner has been spliced along or at the inner surface 91 at a splice G . Said splice G extends on or along the inner surface 91 in a splice direction D transverse to the circumferential direction C of the tire 9 . Depending on the configuration of the tire 9, the splice direction D may be perpendicular to circumferential direction C of the tire 9 , i . e . parallel to the tire axis X . Alternatively, the splice direction D may extend at an acute angle or an obtuse angle with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire 9 .

As is further shown in figures 1A-1 F, the processing assembly 10 comprises a tire building drum 11 for assembling and/or shaping the tire 9 , a lay down device 12 for receiving the tire 9 and for placing the tire 9 in a lay down orientation, and a transport device 13 for transporting the tire 9 from the tire building drum 11 to the lay down device 12 . The tire processing assembly 10 further comprises a trans fer ring 14 for removing the tire 9 from the tire building drum 11 and for transferring the tire 9 to the transport device 13 .

The transport device 13 comprises a rail 130 that extends between the transfer ring 14 and the lay down device 12 , and a carriage 133 that is movable along said rail 130 . In this particular embodiment, the rail extends from the transfer ring 14 to the lay down device 12 in a transport direction T . Accordingly, the carriage 133 is movable along the rail 130 in said transport direction T for transporting the tire 9 from the transfer ring 12 to the lay down device

12 .

As is best seen in figures 2A-2G, transport device

13 further comprises one or more support members 131 , preferably one or more support rollers , for supporting the tire 9. More particularly, the one or more support members 131 are arranged supporting the tire 9 in a support position relative to the inspection unit 1 . When in said support position, the inspection unit 1 is positionable in an inspection position in which the inspection plane P intersects with the tire 9. More particularly, in said inspection position, the inspection plane P intersects with the central plane U of the tire 9.

The support members 131 protrude from the carriage 133 and are carried or supported by said carriage 133 . In the embodiment as shown, the support members 131 are arranged to support the inner rims of the tire 9. In other words , the one or more support members 131 are arranged to be inserted through the openings 90 of the tire 9. Alternatively, support members may be arranged to support the circumferential outer surface 92 of the tire 9 .

The transport device 13 is arranged for holding the tire 9 in an upright orientation, i . e . with the tire axis X extending hori zontally or substantially horizontally . Preferably, the transport device 13 is arranged for transporting the tire 9 in an orientation in which the tire axis X extends transverse or perpendicular to the transport direction T . In particular, the support members 131 extend transverse or perpendicular to the transport direction T while transporting the tire 9 in the transport direction T .

Optionally, the transport device 13 is further provided with one or more load cells 132 for measuring a weight of the tire 9. Preferably, each of said one or more load cells 132 are arranged between the carrier 133 and a respective one of the support members 131 . Hence, the weight of the tire 9 can be measured while said tire is transported by the transport device 13 . Hence , no separate weighing station is required .

The transport device 13 may further comprise a sticker applicator 15 for applying a sticker to the tire 9. Alternatively, a marker applicator may be used for applying a marking or marker on the tire 9 . Said sticker, marking or marker may for example comprise information about the configuration and/or the dimensions of the tire 9. Additionally or alternatively, the weight of the tire 9 measured by the load cells 132 may be marked on the tire 9. The sticker applicator 15 can apply a sticker to the tire 9 while said tire 9 is transported by the transport device 13 . Hence, no separate sticker application station or marking station is required .

As can further be seen in figures ID and IE , the transport device 13 may be arranged for rotating or pivoting the tire 9 about a trans fer axis Y into a transfer orientation for trans ferring the tire 9 to the lay down device 12 . In particular, as is shown in figures 5A and 6A, the carrier 133 is rotatable with respect to rail 130 about the transfer axis

Y . In the transfer orientation, the tire axis X extends parallel or substantially parallel to the transport direction

Z .

As is shown in figures 5A and 5B the lay down unit 12 comprises a lay down support 121 and a plurality of lay down rollers 122 . The lay down rollers 122 and the lay down support 121 form an L-shaped or substantially L-shaped frame for supporting the tire 9. Said frame is pivotable about a lay down axis E between a receiving orientation, as is shown in figure 5A and a lay down orientation as is shown in figure 5B . Said lay down axis E is located upstream of the lay down rollers 122 in the transport direction T . The lay down rollers 122 and the lay down support 121 each extend perpendicular to the lay down axis E . Preferably lay down rollers form a roller conveyor section . The lay down support 121 may comprise a roller conveyor as well .

As is shown in figure 5A, in the receiving orientation, the lay down rollers 122 extend generally vertical or upward . The lay down supports 121 extend in or substantially in the horizontal direction . The tire 9 has been transported up to the lay down unit 12 such that the outer surface 92 of the tire 9 is facing the lay down support 121 and the first side 93 of the tire is facing the lay down rollers 122 . Preferably, tire 9 is supported with the outer surface 92 on the lay down supports 121 . Optionally, the first side 93 of the tire 9 abuts the lay down rollers 122 . When the tire 9 is supported on the lay down support 121 , the support members 131 of the transport device 13 may be retracted from the tire 9. Subsequently, the lay down device 12 may be rotated from the receiving orientation to the lay down orientation .

As is shown in figure 5B, in the lay down orientation, the lay down rollers 122 extend in or substantially in a horizontal plane . The tire 9 has been pivoted about the lay down axis E and is now supported with the first side 93 thereof on the lay down rollers 122 . Subsequently, the tire 9 may be transported further on the first side 93 thereof .

Figures 6A and 6B show an alternative lay down device 212 . The alternative lay down device 212 di ffers from the previously discussed lay down device 12 in that the lay down axis E is located downstream of the lay down rollers 222 in the transport direction T . The lay down rollers 222 are arranged to accommodate the support members 131 of the transport device 13 .

The tire processing assembly 10 further comprises an inspection unit 1 for inspecting the tire 9, in particular the inner surface 91 of the tire 9. More particularly, the inspection unit is arranged to inspect the splice G on the inner surface 91 of the tire 9. The inspection unit 1 is arranged along the transport device 13 . In particular, the inspection unit 1 is arranged along or next to the transport device in a direction transverse to the transport direction Z . The inspection unit 1 is arranged to reach into the internal volume of the tire 9 via one of the openings 90 while the tire is supported by the transport device 13 .

As is best shown in figures 2A-2 F, the inspection unit 1 comprises an imaging device 2 for scanning or imaging the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 . The imaging device 2 may for example comprise a profiler or a profilometer for detecting and/or imaging a height profile of the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 . In this particular embodiment, the imaging device 2 comprises a laser emitter for proj ecting a laser line L on the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 and a camera for capturing an image of said laser line L on the inner surface 91 .

Optionally, the transport device 13 further comprises a shielding unit 134 for shielding of the laser of the imaging device 2 . In particular, the shielding unit is arranged for preventing that the laser of the imaging unit is emitted outside of the tire 9 through the opening 90 of said tire 9 . The shielding unit 134 is supported on and/or suspended on the carrier 133 . The shielding unit 134 is arranged to cover at least a part of the opening 90 of the tire along the tire axis X . The shielding unit 134 may for example comprises a plate or a sheet of laser shielding material .

The camera of the imaging device 2 has a field of view W that is directed along and/or centered about a viewing direction F . Said viewing direction F extends at a slight angle with respect to the emitted laser for capturing a profile of the inner surface 91 along the proj ected laser line L . In particular, the viewing direction F is directed at such an angle with respect to the emitted laser that the proj ected laser line L is within the field of view W of the imaging device 2 .

As is shown in figures 3 , 4A and 4B, the imaging device 2 is arranged to proj ect the laser line L such that said laser line L extends transverse or perpendicular to the splice G . More particularly, the imaging device 2 is arranged to proj ect the laser line L on the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 such that the laser line extends perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the inspection plane P . In this particular embodiment, the field of view W about the viewing direction F, i . e . in the direction of the proj ected laser line L, is between twenty-five and forty-five degrees . Preferably, said field of view W, in the direction of the proj ected laser line L, is between thirty and forty degrees .

The imaging device 2 may for example have a focus distance of forty millimeters and a focus range between five and seventy-five millimeters in the viewing direction F . Preferably, the inspection unit 1 is arranged for measuring a distance between the imaging device 2 and the inner surface 91 of the tire 9. For example the imaging device 2 may comprise a triangulation camera for determining said distance .

The inspection unit 1 further comprises a base 8 and a drive assembly 3 for moving the imaging device 2 with respect to said base 8 . In particular, the drive assembly 3 is arranged to drive a movement of the imaging device 2 with respect to the base 8 in an inspection plane P . As is shown in figures 2A-2F, the inspection plane P is spanned by a first direction A and a second direction B transverse or perpendicular to said first direction A. Preferably, as is shown in figures 2A-2 F, the first direction A is a vertical or upright direction . In other words , the inspection plane P is a vertical or upright plane .

The drive assembly 3 comprise a first member 31 that is movable relative to the base 8 and a first drive 4 for driving the movement of said first member 31 relative to the base 8 . In the embodiment as shown, the first member 31 is movable relative to the base 8 in the first direction A. Accordingly, the first drive 4 is a linear drive . In particular, the first drive 4 comprises a spindle 41 for moving the first member 31 back and forward in the first direction A.

The drive assembly 3 further comprises a second member 32 that is movable relative to the first member 31 and a second drive 5 for driving the movement of said second member 32 relative to the first member 31 . In the embodiment as shown, the second member 32 is movable relative to the first member 31 in the second direction B . In this particular embodiment, the second drive 5 is a linear drive comprising a belt and pulley system having a first pulley 51 and a second pulley 52 . Alternatively, the second drive 5 may for example comprise a spindle drive .

As can further be seen in figures 2A-2 F, the drive assembly 3 is further arranged for driving a rotation of the imaging device 2 about a rotation axis R perpendicular to said inspection plane P . In particular, the drive assembly 3 is arranged to drive a rotation of the imaging device 2 about the rotation axis R with respect to the second member 32 .

The drive assembly 3 comprises a rotation drive 6 for driving the rotation of the imaging device 2 about the rotation axis R . Said rotation drive 6 comprises a plurality of pulleys 63 , 64 , 65 and a belt 61 that is guided along said plurality of pulleys 63 , 64 , 65. Preferably, the belt 61 is a toothed belt .

The plurality of pulleys 63 , 64 , 65 comprises a third pulley or driven pulley 63 for driving the belt 61 . Said driven pulley 63 may for example be driven by a servomotor (not shown) . The driven pulley 63 is located on the first member 31 of the drive assembly 3 . Alternatively , the driven pulley 63 may for example be located on the base 8 . Accordingly, the associated servomotor can be located a position separate from the second member 32 of the drive assembly 3 . Hence, said second member 32 may be moved in the second direction B more accurately, precisely and/or efficiently .

The plurality of pulleys 63 , 64 , 65 further comprises an actuation pulley 65 that is coupled in rotation to the imaging device 2 . In other words , the rotation of the imaging device 2 is rotated about the rotation axis R by said actuation pulley 65. The actuation pulley 65 is mounted to the second member 32 of the drive assembly 3 . In the embodiment as shown, the actuation pulley 65 is rotatable about the rotation axis R . Preferably, the imaging device 2 is co-rotatable or rotatable together with the actuation pulley 65.

The one or more pulleys 63 , 64 , 65 further comprise a plurality of fourth pulleys 64 for guiding the belt 61 between the actuation pulley 65 and the driven pulley 63 . Said fourth pulleys 64 are passive pulleys , i . e . said pulleys are freely rotatable . The fourth pulleys 64 are distributed over the first member 31 and the second member 32 of the drive assembly 3 . In particular, the fourth pulleys 64 are arranged to allow a telescopic extension of the belt 61 with a movement of the second member 32 relative to the first member 31 .

As is further shown in figures 2A-2F, the rotation drive comprises two tension rollers 66 . One of said tension rollers 66 is located at the actuation pulley 65 . Said tension roller 66 guides the belt 61 along a larger part of the circumference of the actuation pulley 65 . Hence , the belt may have a better grip on the actuation pulley 65. Accordingly, the actuation pulley 65 may be rotated about the rotation axis more precisely and/or accurately . The other one of the tension rollers 66 guides the belt along a larger part of the circumference of the fourth pulley 64 on the first member 31 .

As is best shown in figures 4A, the inspection unit 1 is positionable relative to the one or more support members 131 in a first operative position in which the inspection plane P extends perpendicular or to the central plane U . As is further shown in figure 4B, the inspection unit 1 is further positionable relative to the one or more support members 131 in a further operative position in which the inspection plane P extends at an oblique angle with respect to the central plane U . Preferably, the inspection unit 1 is movable between the first operative position and the further operative position . More particularly, the drive assembly 3 is pivotable with respect to the base 8 about a pivot axis K . In other words , the inspection plane P is pivotable about the pivot axis K . Preferably, as is shown in figures 2A-2G, said pivot axis K extends in the first direction A. Alternatively, the one or more support members 131 may be pivotable with respect to the inspection plane P about a further pivot axis (not shown) that extends parallel to the inspection plane P . Preferably, said further pivot axis extends in the first direction A.

A method for inspecting the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 will now be described . The method comprises scanning or imaging the splice G with the imaging device 2 . In particular, the method comprises using the imaging device 2 to scan or image the splice G while moving the field of view W and/or the laser line L of said imaging device 2 along the splice G . The imaging device 2 may for example use the laser emitter and the camera to detect a height profile of the splice G .

As is shown in figure ID, a tire 9 is provided at the inspection unit 1 by the transport device 13 . The tire 9 is supported on the one or more support members 131 in the support position . The method may comprises a step of orientating and/or positioning the tire 9 such that the splice G is in or substantially in a predetermined inspection position, e . g . a predetermined inspection position with respect to the inspection unit 1 . This step may for example comprise tracking the location of the splice G in the circumferential direction C of the tire 9 on the tire building drum 11 , the trans fer ring 14 and/or the transport device 13 . Alternatively, a marking indicative of the location of the splice G in the circumferential direction C of the tire 9 may be applied to the tire 9 . In the embodiment as is shown in figure 2A, the splice G is located at or near the bottom of tire 9 in the predetermined orientation .

Figure 2A shows an initial state of the inspection unit 1 . The tire 9 has been transported up to the inspection unit 1 by the transport device 13 . In other words , the tire 9 has been transported towards and/or into the support position . Said tire 9 is suspended on the one or more support members 131 in a vertical or substantially vertical orientation . The inspection unit 1 is in an idle or contracted state . Preferably, in said idle or contracted state , the inspection unit 1 allows a tire to be transported up to and/or past the inspection station in the transport direction T .

As is shown in figure 2B, the imaging device 2 has been moved through the opening 90 of the tire 9 into a first inspection position S I within the internal volume V of the tire 9. Said first inspection position S I is located in the inspection plane P . The imaging device 2 has been rotated about the rotation axis R into a first inspection angle Hl . In particular, field of view W of the imaging device 2 has been rotated about the rotation axis R into said first inspection angle Hl . In the embodiment as shown, the first inspection angle Hl is defined as the relative angle between the field of view W and the horizontal axis . Alternatively, the first inspection angle Hl may for example be related to the vertical axis , a reference plane on the second member 32 or the central axis X of the tire 9 . Preferably, at said first inspection angle Hl , the field of view W extends perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 .

As is shown in figure 2C, the imaging device 2 has scanned a first inspection path T1 along the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 . In particular, the field of view W of the imaging device 2 has been moved along said first inspection path T1 while scanning the inner surface 91 of the tire 9.

The imaging device 2 has been moved from the first inspection position S I into a second inspection position S2 . In the case of the first inspection path Tl , the first inspection position SI is the initial inspection position and the second inspection position S2 is the consecutive inspection position . The second inspection position S2 is located in the inspection plane P . In particular, the imaging device 2 has been displaced from the first inspection position SI in both the first direction A and the second direction B . Preferably, the imaging device 2 has been moved linearly, i . e . in a straight line, from the first inspection position SI to the second inspection position S2 .

As is further shown in figure 2C, the field of view W of the imaging device 2 has been rotated about the rotation axis R from the first inspection angle Hl to a second inspection angle H2 . Preferably, the field of view W of the imaging device 2 is rotated from the first inspection angle Hl to the second inspection angle H2 while the imaging device is moved from the first inspection position S I to the second inspection position S2 . More preferably, the field of view W is rotated gradually from the first inspection angle Hl to the second inspection angle H2 while moving the imaging device 2 from the first inspection position SI . In other words , the rotation of the field of view W is proportional to the movement of the imaging device 2 .

9.

As is shown in figure 2D, the imaging device 2 has been moved from the second inspection position S2 into a third inspection position S3 and has been rotated about the rotation axis R from the second inspection angle H2 to a third inspection angle H3 to scan a second inspection path T2 along the inner surface of the tire 9 . The scanning of the second inspection path T2 is performed in a similar manner to the scanning of the first inspection path Tl . In the case of the second inspection path T2 , the second inspection position S2 is the initial inspection position and the third inspection position S3 is the consecutive inspection position . Accordingly, the second inspection angle H2 is the initial inspection angle and the third inspection angle H3 is the consecutive inspection angle . In the third inspection position S3 the imaging device 2 is located at least partly between the first side 93 and the second side 94 of the tire 9. In other words , the imaging device 2 is located below the opening in the tire 90 in the first direction A.

As is further shown in figures 2E-2G, the imaging device 2 is subsequently moved into a fourth inspection position S4 , a fi fth inspection position S5 and a sixth inspection position S 6 and rotated into an associated fourth inspection angle H4 , fifth inspection angle H5 and sixth inspection angle H6 to move the field of view W along a third inspection path T3 , a fourth inspection path T4 and a fifth inspection path T5, respectively . The respective inspection paths T1-T5 may partially overlap . Preferably, the respective inspection paths T1-T5 form a continuous or contiguous inspection path .

Any discrete number N of predetermined inspection positions S l-Sn and associated inspection angles Hl-Hn may be chosen for inspecting the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 . Preferably, the number N of predetermined inspection positions S l-Sn is between three and twenty . More preferably, the number N of predetermined inspection positions Sl-Sn is between five and fifteen inspection positions Sl-Sn, for example eight inspection positions Sl-Sn . Preferably, the number M of inspection paths Tl-Tm is equal to the number N of predetermined inspection points Sl-Sn minus one .

As is further shown in figures 4A and 4B, the splice G on the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 extends at an oblique angle with respect to the tire axis X . In other words , the splice G extends at an acute or obtuse angle with respect to the circumferential direction C of the tire 9.

As is shown in figure 4A, the inspection plane P extends parallel or in line with the tire axis X . Hence , the inspection plane P extends at an acute or obtuse angle with respect to the splice G . In other words , the field of view W of the imaging device 2 is not centered at the splice along the entire inspection path T .

As is shown in figure 4B, the method may further comprise a step of adapting an angular position of the inspection plane P with respect to the tire 9 . In particular, the method may comprise adapting the angular position of the inspection plane P with respect to the tire 9 by rotating the drive assembly 3 about the pivot axis K . Preferably, the drive assembly 3 is rotated about the pivot axis K into an angular position in which the inspection plane P extends parallel or substantially parallel to at least a part of the splice G . More preferably, the drive assembly 3 is rotated about the pivot axis K into an angular position in which at least a part of the splice G extends in or substantially in the inspection plane P .

Alternatively, as is for example shown in figure 4A, an angular position of the inspection plane P relative to the splice G may be set at a suf ficiently small mutual angle that allows the splice G to be within the field of view W of the imaging device 2 when moving and/or rotating said imaging device 2 within the inspection plane P . As is further shown in figures 2A-2F and 3A-3F, the inspection unit 1 further comprises a control unit 7 that is operationally connected to the drive assembly 3 for controlling the movement of imaging device 2 . In particular, the control unit 7 is configured for making the inspection unit 1 perform the method as described above . Preferably, the control unit 7 is further operationally connected to the imaging device 2 . For example, the control unit 7 may be configured for using the imaging device 2 to scan the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 while moving said imaging device 2 between the one or more inspection positions S l-Sn and/or the one or more inspection angles Hl-Hn . Preferably, the control unit 7 comprises a memory for storing the one or more inspection positions Sl-Sn and the one or more inspection angles Hl-Hn . The control unit 7 may be connected to an interface and/or an input device (not shown) which may be used by an operator to enter the one or more inspection positions S l-Sn and the one or more inspection angles Hl-Hn in the memory of the control unit 7 . The control unit 7 may be configured to store a fixed number N or a variable number N of inspection positions S l-Sn and inspection angles Hl-Hn in the memory thereof . Alternatively, said one or more inspection positions S l-Sn and said one or more inspection angles Hl-Hn may be preprogrammed in the memory of the control unit 7 .

Preferably, the control unit 7 has access to a data base in which predetermined dimensional data are stored that are related to the shape and/or dimensions of the tire 9 . The control unit 7 may be configured to compare the inspection positions Sl-Sn and inspection angles Hl-Hn in the memory thereof with a configuration of a tire 9 that has been stored in the data base . Preferably, the control unit 7 is configured to calculate , for each inspection path Tl-Tm, an expected distance between the imaging device 2 and the inner surface 91 based on the dimensional data and the stored inspection positions Sl-Sn and inspection angles Hl-Hn . Accordingly, the control unit 7 may for example be configured to provide a feedback to an operator regarding the suitability of the inspection positions S l-Sn and the inspection angles Hl-Hn that are stored in the memory for the use in the method of inspecting the inner surface 91 of the tire 9.

Preferably, the method according to the present invention further comprises a step of calibrating the inspection unit 1 prior to inspecting a batch of tires 9 having the same configuration, e . g . having the same dimensions .

The method comprises , for each inspection position Sl-Sn, measuring a distance between the imaging device 2 and the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 and checking whether said distance is within a predetermined interval . The distance between the imaging device 2 and the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 may be determined separately for each inspection point Sl-Sn . Alternatively or additionally, the distance between the imaging device 2 and the inner surface 91 of the tire may be determined along at least a part of each inspection path Tl-Tn . Preferably, the distance between the imaging device 2 and the inner surface 91 of the tire is determined for the entire length of each inspection path Tl-Tn . The predetermined interval for the distance between the imaging device 2 and the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 may for example be between five millimeters and seventy-five millimeters for each inspection position S l-Sn . Preferably said distance is between twenty and sixty millimeters for each inspection position Sl-Sn .

The method further comprises correcting the inspection position Sl-Sn and/or the associated inspection angle Hl-Hn when the respective distance between the imaging device 2 and the inner surface 91 of the tire 9 is not within the predetermined interval .

Preferably, the above calibration steps are performed once before inspecting a plurality or a batch of tires 9 with the same configuration and/or dimensions . The calibration steps may be preprogrammed in the control unit 7 . It is to be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of the preferred embodiments and is not meant to limit the scope of the invention . From the above discussion, many variations will be apparent to one skilled in the art that would yet be encompassed by the scope of the present invention .

List of reference numerals

1 inspection unit

2 imaging device

3 drive assembly

31 first member

32 second member

4 first linear drive

41 spindle drive

5 second linear drive

51 first pulley

52 second pulley

6 rotation drive

61 belt

63 third pulley or driven pulley

64 fourth pulley

65 fifth pulley or actuation pulley

66 tension roller

7 control unit

8 base

9 tire

90 opening

91 inner surface

92 outer surface

93 first side

94 second side

10 tire processing assembly

11 tire building drum

12 lay down device 121 lay down support

122 lay down roller

13 transport device

130 guide rail

131 support member

132 load cell

133 carriage

134 shielding element

14 transfer ring

15 sticker applicator

210 alternative tire processing assembly

212 alternative lay down device

221 lay down support

222 lay down roller

A first direction

B second direction

C circumferential direction

D splice direction

E lay down axis

F viewing direction

G splice

Hl-Hn inspection angles

K pivot axis

L laser line

M number of inspection paths

N number of inspection positions

P inspection plane

R rotation axis

Sl-Sn inspection positions

Tl-Tm inspection paths

U central plane

V inner volume

W field of view

X tire axis

Y transfer axis

Z transport direction

Claims

C L A I M S

1 . Method for inspecting an inner surface of a tire having a splice that extends along said inner surface in a splice direction transverse to the circumferential direction of the tire, wherein the method comprises scanning the splice with an imaging device while moving the field of view of said imaging device along the splice .

2 . Method according to claim 1 , wherein the method comprises scanning the splice with the imaging device while moving the field of view of said imaging device along a distinct number of inspection paths along the inner surface of the tire .

3 . Method according to claim 2 , wherein moving the field of view of the imaging device along each one of the distinct number of inspection paths comprises : a) moving the imaging device from an initial inspection position to a consecutive inspection position; and/ or b) rotating a viewing direction of the field of view of the imaging device from an initial inspection angle to a consecutive inspection angle about a rotation axis extending transverse to the splice direction .

4 . Method according to claim 3 , wherein the inspection paths of the distinct number of inspection paths are consecutive inspection paths .

5. Method according to claim 4 , wherein the consecutive inspection position of a first inspection path is the initial inspection position of a consecutive inspection path, and/or wherein the consecutive inspection angle of a first inspection path is the initial inspection angle of a consecutive inspection path .

6. Method according to claim 3 , 4 or 5, wherein, in step a) , the imaging device is moved linearly from the initial inspection position to the consecutive inspection position .

7 . Method according to any one of the claims 3- 6, wherein steps a ) and b) are performed simultaneously for moving the field of view of the imaging device along a respective one of the distinct number of inspection paths .

8 . Method according to claim 7 , wherein the viewing direction of the field of view is gradually rotated from the initial inspection angle to the consecutive inspection angle while the imaging device is moved from the initial inspection position to the consecutive inspection position .

9. Method according to any one of claims 3-8 , wherein the initial inspection positions and consecutive inspection positions for each of the inspection paths of the distinct number of inspection paths are located in a common inspection plane .

10 . Method according to claim 9, wherein the rotation axis extends perpendicular to the inspection plane .

11 . Method according to claim 9 or 10 , wherein the method comprises choosing the first inspection position and the one or more further inspection positions such that at least a part of the splice extends parallel or substantially parallel to the inspection plane .

12 . Method according to claim 9 , 10 or 11 , wherein the method comprises choosing the first inspection position and the one or more further inspection positions such that at least a part of the splice extends in the inspection plane .

13 . Method according to any one of the claims 3- 12 , wherein the method further comprises calibrating the inspection paths of the distinct number of inspection paths before scanning the splice , wherein the calibrating comprises the steps of : moving the field of view of the imaging device along a respective inspection path of the distinct number of inspection paths ; determining, for said respective inspection path, a mutual distance between the imaging device and the inner surface of the tire ; and adj usting the respective initial and consecutive inspection positions and/or the respective initial and consecutive inspection angles when said mutual distance is outside a predetermined range .

14 . Method according to claim 13 , wherein the calibrating further comprises the steps of : determining a mutual distance between the inspection plane and the splice ; pivoting the inspection plane about a pivot axis when said mutual distance is outside a predetermined range .

15. Method according to any one of the claims 2- 14 , wherein the distinct number of inspection paths is within a range from one to nineteen, preferably within a range from four to fourteen, more preferably in a range from seven to nine .

16. Method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein the movement of the imaging device along the splice is computer controlled and/or automated .

17 . Method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein the method comprises supporting the tire in an upright orientation while inspecting the inner surface .

18 . Inspection unit for inspecting an inner surface of a tire according to the steps of the method of any one of the preceding claims , wherein the inspection unit comprises a base , an imaging device and a drive assembly for driving a movement of said imaging device with respect to the base in an inspection plane and for driving a rotation of the imaging device about a rotation axis perpendicular to said inspection plane, wherein the inspection unit further comprises a control unit that is operationally connected to the drive assembly for controlling the movement of the imaging device with respect to the base in the inspection plane and for controlling the rotation of the imaging device about the rotation axis , wherein the control unit is configured for controlling the drive assembly to subsequently position the imaging device at a distinct number of predetermined inspection positions in the inspection plane and associated inspection angles about the rotation axis .

19. Inspection unit according to claim 18 , wherein the control unit is further operationally connected to the imaging device , wherein the control unit is configured for using the imaging device to scan the inner surface of the tire while moving the imaging device between the predetermined inspection positions and/or between the associated inspection angles .

20 . Inspection unit according to claim 18 or 19 , wherein the control unit is arranged for controlling the drive assembly to gradually rotate the imaging device about the rotation axis from an initial inspection angle to a consecutive inspection angle while moving said imaging device from an initial inspection position to a consecutive inspection position .

21 . Inspection unit according to claim 20 , wherein an initial inspection angle and a consecutive inspection angle are the same for an associated initial inspection position and a consecutive inspection position di fferent from the initial inspection position .

22 . Inspection unit according to claim 20 , wherein an initial inspection position and a consecutive inspection position are the same for an associated initial inspection angle and a consecutive inspection angle dif ferent from the initial inspection angle .

23 . Inspection unit according to any one of claims 18-22 , wherein the distinct number of predetermined inspection positions and associated inspection angles is within a range from two to twenty, preferably in a range from five to fifteen, more preferably in a range from eight to ten .

24 . Inspection unit according to any one of the claims 18-23 , wherein the inspection unit is arranged to measure a distance between said imaging device and the inner surface of the tire .

25. Inspection unit according to any one of the claims 18-24 , wherein the imaging device is movable with respect to the base along the inspection plane in a first direction and a second direction transverse or perpendicular to said first direction .

26. Inspection unit according to claim 25 , wherein the drive assembly is pivotable with respect to the base about a pivot axis extending in the first direction for pivoting the inspection plane with respect to the base .

27 . Inspection unit according to claim 25 or 26 , wherein the first direction is the vertical direction .

28 . Inspection unit according to claim 25, 26 or 27 , wherein the drive assembly comprises a first member that is movable with respect to the base and a second member that is movable with respect to the first member, wherein the imaging device is rotatably mounted to the second member for rotation about the rotation axis .

29. Inspection unit according to claim 28 , wherein the drive assembly further comprises a first linear drive for driving a movement of the first member with respect to the base in the first direction and a second linear drive for driving a movement of the second member with respect to the first member in the second direction .

30 . Inspection unit according to claim 28 or 29 , wherein the drive assembly further comprises a rotation drive for driving the rotation of the imaging device about the rotation axis .

31 . Inspection unit according to claim 30 , wherein the rotation drive is a belt drive comprising a plurality of pulleys and a belt that is guided along said plurality of pulleys , wherein the plurality of pulleys comprises an actuation pulley that is coupled in rotation to the imaging device .

32 . Inspection unit according to claim 31 , wherein the actuation pulley is rotatable about the rotation axis .

33 . Inspection unit according to claim 31 or 32 , wherein the plurality of pulleys comprises a driven pulley for driving the belt , wherein the driven pulley is located at the first member or at the base .

34 . Inspection unit according to claim 31 , 32 or 33 , wherein the belt is a toothed belt .

35. Inspection unit according to any one of the claims 18-34 , wherein the imaging device has a field of view, that is directed in a viewing direction, wherein said field of view, in a direction perpendicular to the inspection plane, is between twenty- five and forty-five degrees , preferably between thirty and forty degrees .

36. Inspection unit according to any one of the claims 18-35, wherein the imaging device comprises a laser emitter for proj ecting a laser line on the inner surface of the tire and a camera for capturing an image of said laser line .

37 . Inspection unit according to claim 36 , wherein the laser emitter is arranged for proj ecting the laser line on the inner surface of the tire such that said laser line extends perpendicular to the inspection plane .

38 . Processing assembly for processing a tire , wherein the processing assembly comprises the inspection unit according to any one of the claims 18-37 , wherein the processing assembly further comprises one or more support members for supporting the tire in a support position relative to the inspection unit in which the inspection plane intersects with the tire when the tire is in the support position .

39. Processing assembly according to claim 38 , wherein the inspection unit is positionable relative to the one or more support members in an operative position in which the inspection plane extends perpendicular to or at an oblique angle with respect to a central plane of the tire, when the tire is in the support position .

40 . Processing assembly according to claim 39 , wherein the inspection unit is pivotable relative to one or more support members about a pivot axis to adj ust an angle between the inspection plane and the central plane .

41 . Processing assembly according to claim 38 , 39 or 40 , wherein, in the support position, the tire is arranged in an upright orientation .

42 . Processing assembly according to any one of the claims 38-41 , wherein the processing assembly further comprises a transport device for transporting the tire along a transport path, wherein the transport device comprises the one or more support members for supporting the tire, wherein the inspection unit is arranged along said transport path .

43 . Processing assembly according to claim 42 , wherein the inspection unit is configured to inspect a tire on the transport device without removing said tire from the transport device .

44 . Computer program product comprising instructions for making the inspection unit of any one of the claims 18-37 or the processing assembly according to any one of the claims 39-43 perform the method according to any one of the claims 1- 17 .

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