SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A SUPPORT STRUCTURE

A system and method for curing and manufacturing a partially cured tire assembly (140) is disclosed. The system (200) comprises: an annular hub member (210) slid into a corresponding annular, radially inner surface (142) of the partially-cured tire assembly (140); a plurality of elongate spacer members (220) fastened to the hub member (210) with flap members (147) of the partially-cured tire assembly (140) thereby enclosing a radially outermost surface (222) of each of the spacer members (220); a first annular curing platen (230) for axially securing the hub member (210) and spacer members (220) relative to each other; a second annular curing platen (240) for axially securing the hub member (210) and spacer members (220) relative to each other; and a plurality of elongate inserts (250) for creating an outer cylindrical surface formed by a radially outer surface (252) of each insert (250).