Abstract: In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a bead measurement system with a set of radially-movable support arms for engaging a bead, where the support arms are rotatable such that they are capable of rotating the bead about a central. The bead measurement system may further include a first measurement device, where in an operational state, the first measurement device faces one of an inner profile surface and an outer profile surface of the bead. The bead measurement system may be configured to collect a set of profile measurements based on readings of the first measurement device as the support arms rotate the bead.

Abstract: A bead wrapping system for wrapping a strip around a tire bead may include one or more of the following components: an expandable chuck, a strip handling system, and a former assembly. At least one of the strip handling system and the former assembly may be movable radially relative to a central gear of the expandable chuck in response to rotation of the central gear.

Abstract: A knife for cutting a bead apex for a vehicle tire may include a blade having a first face with a first surface, a cutting edge located at an end of the first surface and positioned for engagement with the bead apex, and a plurality of serrations extending from the first surface of the blade.

Abstract: A system for stitching a bead apex includes an upper assembly including an upper elongated member, an upper arm coupled to the upper elongated member, and an upper stitching wheel coupled to the upper arm. The system also includes a lower assembly including a lower elongated member, a lower arm coupled to the lower elongated member, and a lower stitching wheel coupled to the lower arm.

Abstract: A system for handling a bead apex includes a first jaw having open and closed states, which is configured to engage a first surface of a bead apex in the closed state. The system further includes a second jaw having open and closed states, and a plurality of grippers coupled to the second jaw, wherein each of the plurality of grippers comprises a body. At least one of the plurality of grippers includes a pivot shoe rotatably attached to the body of the at least one of the plurality of grippers, wherein the pivot shoe is rotatable with respect to the body of the at least one of the plurality of grippers. The pivot shoe is configured to engage a second surface of the bead apex in the closed state of the second jaw.