Abstract: A multi-ribbed power transmission belt having longitudinal grooves and transverse grooves that form a plurality of cogs on the belt surface defined between adjacent transverse grooves is provided. The pitch lengths of the rows of cogs are randomized or sequenced over the entire length of the belt to reduce the noise of the belt as it travels about its associated pulleys. The ideal pitch pattern on a belt is variable, dependent upon the circumferential length of the belt. To create an optimized pitch sequence for belts of various circumferential lengths, a method of manufacture is employed wherein a portion of the pitch sequence of a shorter belt is incorporated within an optimized pitch sequence of a longer belt and both belts are manufactured from a single mold. The longer belt may contain cogs of various shapes intended to offset a range of frequencies and minimize noise generation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cutting segments from a long sheet (1) of multilayered elastomeric material. An initial opening is formed in the sheet without severing reinforcing cords (20) within the elastomeric sheet by a penetrator/separator (40). Two ultrasonic knives are inserted on either side of the penetrator/separator (40) and positioned to cut the sheet at a small skive angle &agr; with respect to the plane of the sheet being cut. Then the knives are moved to opposite edges of the sheet of elastomeric material.

Abstract: A bias ply snow tire for use on the rear wheels of a passenger car having radial ply tires on the front wheels. The bias ply tire has a low aspect ratio, narrow tread with a shallow nonskid pattern, narrow flange spacing and high ply turn-ups. The point of maximum section width of the inflated bias ply tire is located in the radially inner one-half of the cross section of the tire.