Goodyear Tire & Rubber has patented a process for manufacturing a tread molding element for tires. This involves modeling a 3D shape, using thermoplastic polymers with a melting point of at least 180°C, 3D printing the element, and optionally annealing it. GlobalData’s report on Goodyear Tire & Rubber gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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Data Insights The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co - Company Profile

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Goodyear Tire & Rubber, Anti-skid tyre treads was a key innovation area identified from patents. Goodyear Tire & Rubber's grant share as of July 2024 was 76%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

3d printing process for tire tread molding elements

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co

The patent US12064903B2 outlines a novel process for manufacturing a tread molding element designed to mold portions of tire treads. The process begins with modeling a three-dimensional shape of the tread molding element using a modeling program. It involves the use of one or more thermoplastic polymers, specifically those with a melting point of at least 180°C, as determined by ISO 3146:2000. The manufacturing method employs 3D printing technology to create the tread molding element based on the modeled design. The process may also include an optional annealing step to enhance the properties of the molded element.

The patent further specifies the types of thermoplastic polymers that can be utilized, including various polyamides and polyether-based materials. The 3D printing process can involve techniques such as Fused Filament Fabrication, with specific parameters for extrusion and print bed temperatures. Additionally, the tread molding element can be constructed with varying infill percentages and may include features like ribs or blades. The claims also detail the potential for using composite materials that incorporate reinforcing agents, as well as the possibility of creating different sections of the molding element from distinct plastic compositions. Overall, this patent presents a comprehensive approach to producing advanced tread molding elements through innovative 3D printing techniques.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.