Transfer press and its pull-ring material feeder assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a pull-tab material feeder assembly (20) for a press (10), which includes a plurality of support elements (22), a plurality of rotating elements (24), and a certain number of operating elements (26). Each rotating element (24) is rotatably coupled to an associated support element (22). Each operating element (26) is coupled to at least one of the support elements (22) or one of the rotating elements (24), and each operating element (26) is configured to engage with the rotating element (24). The pull-tab material feeder assembly (20) further includes a wear reduction assembly (30), which includes a plurality of wear reduction elements (32). The plurality of support elements (22) arrange at least one wear reduction element (32) of the wear reduction assembly between the rotating element (24) and the associated support element (22).

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 711,585, filed on December 12, 2019, with the title "Conversion Press and Tab Stock Feeder Assembly Therefor". Technical Field

[0003] The disclosed solution relates to a tab stock feeder assembly for a press, such as a conversion press, and more particularly to a tab stock feeder assembly including a wear reduction assembly. Background Art

[0004] It is well known that metal containers, such as but not limited to beverage cans and beer cans, include a can end having a tear panel and a pull tab (i.e., a tab). That is, the pull tab is pivotally coupled to the can end adjacent to the tear panel. To open the container, a user lifts one end of the pull tab so that the opposite end engages the tear panel. The biasing of the pull tab causes the tear panel to be partially separated from the other part of the can end, thereby forming an opening in the can end.

[0005] Pull tabs are formed in a pull tab press or more typically in a conversion press. A conversion press is a press that is configured to form both the can end and the pull tab. Regardless of the type of press used, pull tabs are formed from a sheet or wire of a metal such as but not limited to aluminum. As used herein, the material in the sheet or wire is "tab stock". That is, the tab stock moves through a tab stock feeder to a forming element of the press, where the metal forms a pull tab, is cut from the sheet / wire, and is coupled to the can end (which is also formed from a different sheet / wire or a pre - formed shell at the same time). It is well known that forming / cutting / coupling is done by a press having an upper (or first) tool and a lower (or second) tool. Each tool has various forming structures coupled thereto, which are configured to form the metal. Typically, each pair of opposing forming structures is considered a "station". Each forming station is configured to partially form the pull tab and / or the can end. That is, the material advances through the tools, and a part of the pull tab / can end is formed at each station. Typically, the pull tab is separated from the tab stock only when it is coupled to the can end. When the can end is separated from the sheet / wire from which it has been formed, a conveyor, such as but not limited to a conveyor belt, moves the can end. When the can end, along with the pull tab coupled thereto, reaches the end of the tool, the can end is substantially complete. The formation of the pull tab will be further described in detail below without reference to the can end.

[0006] That is, a pull tab is formed when the upper tool reciprocates between a first position (where the upper tool is spaced apart from the lower tool) and a second position where forming takes place (where the upper tool is adjacent to the lower tool). It will be appreciated that when the upper tool is in the second position, a structural joint is formed and the pull tab material is formed. Further, it is well known that when the upper tool is in the first position, the pull tab material advances such that the pull tab is gradually formed by the station.

[0007] The pull tab material feeder is a structure that advances the pull tab material. It will be appreciated that the pull tab material feeder is configured to move the pull tab material when the upper tool is not in the second position. That is, when the upper tool is in the second position, the pull tab material cannot advance because the forming structure is engaging the pull tab material. Accordingly, the pull tab material feeder is configured to advance the pull tab material when the upper tool is not in the second position and to disengage from the pull tab material when the upper tool is in the second position.

[0008] In a common embodiment, the pull tab material feeder includes a drive wheel, a base, a lifting member, and a biasing roller. A motor or similar structure is operatively coupled to the drive wheel and causes the drive wheel to rotate. The lifting member is pivotally coupled to the base and is configured to move between a first position where the lifting member is substantially adjacent to the base and a second position where the lifting member is substantially spaced apart from the base in a reciprocating pivotal motion. In an exemplary embodiment, a rotating cam member coupled to the base causes the lifting member to move between the first and second positions. The biasing roller is coupled to and moves with the lifting member. The biasing roller is generally located above the drive wheel. The pull tab material is disposed between the drive wheel and the biasing roller.

[0009] In this configuration, the biasing roller moves between a first position where the biasing roller engages the pull tab material and biases the pull tab material against the drive wheel and a second position where the biasing roller is spaced apart from the pull tab material. It will be appreciated that when the pull tab material is biased against the drive wheel, the drive wheel advances the pull tab material. Conversely, when the biasing roller is in the second position, the pull tab material is not operatively engaged with the drive wheel and does not advance. It should also be understood that when the upper tool is also in its first position (or moving toward / away from its first position), the lifting member / biasing roller is in the first position, and when the upper tool is in its second position, the lifting member / biasing roller is in the second position. Thus, as described above, when the upper tool is in its second position and forming material, the pull tab material is stationary. When the upper tool is separated from the lower tool, i.e., when the upper tool is in its first position (or moving toward / away from its first position), the pull tab material is in motion.

[0010] However, the tab feeder has several problems that are generally associated with wear and tear. That is, although the moving elements are separated from the bearings and similar structures, the reciprocating motion causes wear at specific locations on certain elements of the tab feeder. For example, the lifting member is typically coupled to the base via a hinge assembly that includes an integrated hinge sleeve and a hinge pin. In other words, the lifting member is pivotally coupled to the base via the hinge pin. When the lifting member reciprocates between a first position and a second position, the hinge sleeve and the hinge pin are each worn at specific locations. That is, in a typical configuration, the hinge sleeve is disposed at each end of the hinge pin. Thus, the hinge sleeve engages the hinge pin only at the ends of the hinge pin. Additionally, since the integrated hinge sleeve and hinge pin are not perfect cylinders, the engagement between each hinge sleeve and hinge pin occurs at specific locations. Since the lifting member pivots the hinge sleeve and the hinge pin wears at these specific locations. Thus, although most of the hinge sleeve / pin remains substantially unworn, extensive wear occurs at these specific locations. This is a problem.

[0011] In addition, the biasing roller is configured to assist in advancing the tab stock in a forward direction. The biasing roller is mounted on an annular bearing assembly, i.e., an assembly having a circular inner race, a circular outer race, and bearings (e.g., ball bearings; roller bearings) therebetween, which assembly is disposed in or parallel to the plane of rotation of the biasing roller. The annular bearing assembly is configured to and does improve the forces in the plane of rotation of the annular bearing assembly. For example, a force applied to the outer race in the plane of rotation of the annular bearing assembly (and other than a force applied exactly in the radial direction) causes the outer race to rotate relative to the inner race; thus, the forces applied to the annular bearing assembly and thus to the biasing roller are improved.

[0012] The biasing roller and the annular bearing assembly are further subjected to forces applied in directions other than the plane of rotation of the annular bearing assembly. The roller bearings and the biasing roller do not improve such forces, and the elements supporting the biasing roller are subject to wear. That is, using a Cartesian coordinate system and as used herein, the biasing roller is configured to rotate about the "X-axis". That is, the "X-axis" is an axis extending along the axis of rotation of the biasing roller. As used herein, movement about this axis is "rolling". As used herein, the "Y-axis" extends in the direction of movement of the pull-tab stock. As used herein, movement about the "Y-axis" is "pitching", and as used herein, movement about the "Z-axis" is "yawing". Although the biasing roller (and the annular bearing assembly) is configured to "roll", i.e., rotate about the X-axis, the biasing roller is further subjected to forces that cause the biasing roller to pitch or yaw. Since the annular bearing assembly is not configured to receive forces in these directions, these forces result in "wear caused by forces applied to the element in a plane other than the plane of rotation of the rotating element", as defined by that term hereinafter. This is a problem. Additionally, it is desirable for the biasing roller to rotate at least slightly about the Y-axis to allow the biasing roller to uniformly engage the pull-tab stock. The annular bearing assembly does not allow rotation about the Y-axis and is thus a problem.

[0013] Accordingly, there is a need for a pull-tab stock feeder assembly for a press that includes a wear reduction assembly configured to reduce wear on the rotating element and / or the elements supporting the rotating element. There is also a need for a pull-tab stock feeder assembly for a press in which wear-reducing elements are disposed between the rotating element and the associated supporting elements. Summary of the Invention

[0014] These and other needs are met by at least one embodiment of the disclosed solution, which provides a pull-tab stock feeder assembly for a press, the pull-tab stock feeder assembly including a plurality of support elements, a plurality of rotating elements, and a number of operating elements. Each rotating element is rotatably coupled to an associated support element. Each operating element is coupled to at least one of the support elements or to one of the rotating elements, and each operating element is configured to engage the rotating element. The pull-tab stock feeder assembly further includes a wear reduction assembly that includes a plurality of wear-reducing elements. The plurality of support elements cause at least one wear-reducing element of the wear reduction assembly to be disposed between the rotating element and the associated support element.

[0015] Also disclosed is a press, such as a converting press, employing the above-described pull-tab stock feeder assembly. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] A full understanding of the disclosed solution can be obtained from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

[0017] Figure 1 is a side view of a transfer press employing a pull tab stock feeder assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosed solution;

[0018] Figure 2 is Figure 1 an isometric view of the pull tab stock feeder assembly;

[0019] Figure 3 is Figure 2 an isometric view of a portion of the pull tab stock feeder assembly;

[0020] Figure 4 is Figure 3 a top view of the portion of the pull tab stock feeder assembly;

[0021] Figure 5 is a sectional isometric view taken along line 5-5 of Figure 4 ;

[0022] Figure 6 is a sectional isometric view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 4 ; and

[0023] Figure 7 is Figure 5 an enlarged view of a portion of DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] It will be understood that the specific elements illustrated in the drawings herein and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed solution, which are provided by way of non-limiting example solely for purposes of illustration. Accordingly, specific dimensions, orientations, assemblies, the number of components used, embodiment configurations, and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosed solution.

[0025] The directional phrases used herein (e.g., clockwise, counterclockwise, left, right, top, bottom, upward, downward, and their derivatives) are related to the orientation of the elements shown in the drawings and do not limit the claims, unless expressly recited therein.

[0026] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0027] As used herein, "configured to [verb]" means that the identified element or component has a structure that is shaped, sized, arranged, coupled, and / or configured to perform the identified verb. For example, a member "configured to cause movement" is movably coupled to another element and includes an element that causes the member to move or otherwise the member is configured to move in response to other elements or components. Thus, as used herein, "configured to [verb]" states structure rather than function. Further, as used herein, "configured to [verb]" means that the identified element or component is intended and designed to perform the identified verb. Thus, an element that can perform the identified verb but is not intended and not designed to perform the identified verb is not "configured to [verb]".

[0028] As used herein, in terms such as but not limited to "[X] configured to [verb] [Y]", "[Y]" is not a recited element. Instead, "[Y]" further defines the structure of "[X]". That is, assume that in the following two examples, "[X]" is "bracket" and [verb] is "support". In the first example, the complete term is "bracket configured to support a flying bird". That is, in this example, "[Y]" is "flying bird". As is well known, as opposed to a swimming / walking bird, a flying bird typically grasps a tree branch for support. Thus, for a bracket, i.e., "[X]", to be "structured" to support a flying bird, the bracket is shaped and sized to be something like a tree branch that a flying bird can grasp. However, this does not mean that the flying bird is being recited. In the second example, "[Y]" is a house; that is, the second exemplary term is "bracket configured to support a house". In this example, the bracket is structured as a foundation since it is well known that a house is supported by a foundation. As before, the house is not being recited but rather defines the shape, size, and configuration of the bracket, i.e., the shape, size, and configuration of "[X]" in the term "[X] configured to [verb] [Y]".

[0029] As used herein, "associated" means that elements are part of the same assembly and / or operate together, or act on one another / are acted on by one another. For example, an automobile has four tires and four hubcaps. Although all elements are coupled as part of the automobile, it is understood that each hubcap is "associated" with a particular tire.

[0030] As used herein, "coupling assembly" includes two or more coupling members or coupling components. The components of a coupling or coupling assembly are generally not part of the same element or other components. Thus, the components of a "coupling assembly" may not be described simultaneously in the following description.

[0031] As used herein, a "coupling" or "coupling component" is one or more components of a coupling assembly. That is, a coupling assembly includes at least two components configured to be coupled together. It will be appreciated that the components of the coupling assembly are compatible with each other. For example, in a coupling assembly, if one coupling component is a cartridge receptacle, the other coupling component is a cartridge plug, or, if one coupling component is a bolt, the other coupling component includes a nut (and an opening for the bolt to extend through) or a threaded hole.

[0032] As used herein, a "fastener" is a separate component configured to couple two or more elements. Thus, for example, a bolt is a "fastener", but a tongue-and-groove joint is not a "fastener". That is, each tongue-and-groove element is part of the elements being joined, rather than a separate component.

[0033] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are "coupled" shall mean that these parts are joined or operate together directly or indirectly, i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components, provided there is a link. As used herein, "coupled directly" means that two elements are in direct contact with each other. As used herein, "coupled fixedly" or "fixed" means that two components are coupled so as to move as a unit while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. Thus, when two elements are coupled, all parts of these elements are coupled. However, the description that a particular part of a first element is coupled to a second element (e.g., the first end of a shaft is coupled to a first wheel) means that the particular part of the first element is disposed closer to the second element than its other parts. Additionally, an object placed on another object and held in place only by gravity is not "coupled" to the lower object, unless the upper object is otherwise substantially held in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not coupled to it, but a book glued to the table is coupled to it.

[0034] As used herein, the phrase "removably coupled" or "temporarily coupled" means that one component is coupled to another component in a substantially temporary manner. That is, the two components are coupled in such a way that the joining or separation of each component is easy and does not damage the components. For example, two components fixed to each other using a limited number of easily accessible fasteners (i.e., fasteners that are not difficult to access) are "removably coupled", while two components welded together or joined by fasteners that are difficult to access are not "removably coupled". A "difficult-to-access fastener" is a fastener that requires the removal of one or more other components before accessing the fastener, where the "other components" are not access devices, such as but not limited to a door.

[0035] As used herein, "operably coupled" means that a number of elements or components, each of which is movable between a first position and a second position or between a first configuration and a second configuration, are coupled such that when the first element moves from one position / configuration to another position / configuration, the second element also moves between the positions / configurations. It will be noted that the first element may be "operably coupled" to another element, rather than vice versa. With respect to electronic devices, a first electronic device is "operably coupled" to a second electronic device when the first electronic device is configured to and does send a signal or current to the second electronic device to cause the second electronic device to actuate or otherwise become powered or activated.

[0036] As used herein, "temporarily disposed" means that a first element or component is positioned on a second element or component in such a way that it allows the first element / component to move without having to be decoupled or otherwise manipulated. For example, a book merely placed on a table (i.e., the book is not glued or fastened to the table) is "temporarily disposed" on the table.

[0037] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are "engaged" with each other means that these elements exert a force or bias on each other directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components. Further, as used herein with respect to moving parts, a moving part may "engage" another element during movement from one position to another and / or may "engage" another element once in the position. Thus, it will be understood that the statements "when element A moves to the first position of element A, element A engages element B" and "when element A is in the first position of element A, element A engages element B" are equivalent statements and mean that element A engages element B when moving to the first position of element A and / or element A engages element B when in the first position of element A.

[0038] As used herein, "operably engage" means "engage and move". That is, "operably engage" when used in connection with a first component configured to move a second component that is movable or rotatable means that the first component exerts a force sufficient to move the second component. For example, a screwdriver may be placed in contact with a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is merely "temporarily coupled" to the screw. If an axial force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver presses against the screw and "engages" the screw. However, when a rotational force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver "operably engages" the screw and rotates the screw. Further, with respect to electronic components, "operably engage" means that one component controls another component via a control signal or current.

[0039] As used herein, in the phrase "[x] moves between its first and second positions" or "[y] is configured to move [x] between its first and second positions", "[x]" is the name of an element or component. Further, when [x] is an element or component that moves between a number of positions, the pronoun "its" refers to "[x]", i.e., the element or component named prior to the pronoun "its".

[0040] As used herein, "corresponding" means that two structural components are sized and shaped to be similar to each other and can be joined with a minimal amount of friction. Thus, an opening "corresponding" to a member is sized to be slightly larger than the member such that the member can pass through the opening with a minimal amount of friction. This limitation is modified if two components are to "closely" fit together. In this case, the difference between the component sizes is even smaller, whereby the amount of friction increases. If the element defining the opening and / or the component inserted into the opening is made of a deformable or compressible material, the opening can even be slightly smaller than the component inserted into the opening. With respect to surfaces, shapes, and lines, two or more "corresponding" surfaces, shapes, or lines have substantially the same size, shape, and profile. With respect to movable or configurable elements / components, "corresponding" means that when the elements / components are related and when one element / component moves / is reconfigured, then the other element / component also moves / is reconfigured in a predetermined manner. For example, a lever, i.e., a "see - saw" or "teeter - totter", including a central pivot and an elongate plate, the plate having a first end and a second end. When the first end of the plate is in the raised position, the second end of the plate is in the lowered position. When the first end of the plate moves to the lowered position, the second end of the plate moves to the "corresponding" raised position. Alternatively, a camshaft in an engine has a first lobe operatively coupled to a first piston. When the first lobe moves to its upward position, the first piston moves to the "corresponding" up position, and when the first lobe moves to the lower position, the first piston moves to the "corresponding" lower position.

[0041] As used herein, "travel path" or "path", when used in connection with a moving element, includes the space through which the element moves when in motion. Thus, any moving element inherently has a "travel path" or "path". Further, a "travel path" or "path" relates to the movement of a recognizable structure as a whole relative to another object. For example, assuming a perfectly smooth road, a rotating wheel (recognizable structure) on an automobile generally does not move relative to the body of the automobile (another object). That is, as a whole, the wheel does not change its position relative to, for example, an adjacent fender. Thus, the rotating wheel does not have a "travel path" or "path" relative to the body of the automobile. In contrast, an air intake valve (recognizable structure) on that wheel does have a "travel path" or "path" relative to the body of the automobile. That is, when the wheel is rotating and in motion, the air intake valve moves as a whole relative to the body of the automobile.

[0042] As used herein, a "planar body" or "planar member" is an element that is generally thin and includes opposing, wide, generally parallel surfaces, i.e., the planar surfaces of the planar member and the thinner edge surfaces that extend between the wide parallel surfaces. That is, as used herein, a "planar" element inherently has two opposing planar surfaces with an edge surface extending therebetween. The perimeter and thus the edge surface can include generally straight portions (e.g., when on a rectangular planar member such as a credit card), or be curved (when on a disc such as a coin), or have any other shape.

[0043] As used herein, the term "monolithic" refers to a component that is created as a single piece or unit. That is, an assembly that includes pieces that are created separately and then joined together as a unit is not a "monolithic" component or body.

[0044] As used herein, "monolithization" refers to all of the elements of an assembly being disposed within a single location and / or a single housing, frame, or similar structure.

[0045] As used herein, the term "quantity" shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a plurality). That is, for example, the phrase "a quantity of elements" refers to one element or a plurality of elements. It is specifically noted that the term "a certain 'quantity' of [X]" includes a single [X].

[0046] As used herein, the "radial side / surface" of a circular or cylindrical body is the side / surface that extends around or encircles its center or a height line passing through its center. As used herein, the "axial side / surface" of a circular or cylindrical body is the side that extends in a plane that extends generally perpendicular to the height line passing through the center. That is, generally, for a cylindrical soup can, the "radial side / surface" is the generally circular sidewall, and the "axial side / surface" are the top and bottom of the soup can. Further, as used herein, "radially extending" means extending in the radial direction or along a radial line. That is, for example, a "radially extending" line extends from the center of a circle or cylinder to the radial side / surface. Further, as used herein, "axially extending" means extending in the axial direction or along an axial line. That is, for example, an "axially extending" line extends from the bottom of a cylinder to the top of the cylinder and is generally parallel to or along the central longitudinal axis of the cylinder.

[0047] As used herein, a "tension member" is a structure that has a maximum length when under tension but is otherwise generally flexible, such as but not limited to a chain or cable.

[0048] As used herein, "substantially curved" includes elements having multiple curved portions, combinations of curved and planar portions, and multiple straight / planar portions or segments that are angled relative to each other such that a curve is formed.

[0049] As used herein, an "elongate" element inherently includes a longitudinal axis and / or longitudinal line that extends in the elongate direction.

[0050] As used herein, "about" in phrases such as "disposed around [an element, point, or axis]" or "extending around [an element, point, or axis]" or "[X] degrees around [an element, point, or axis]" means to encircle, extend around, or measure around. As would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, when used in reference to a measurement or in a similar manner, "about" means "approximate", i.e., within an approximate range related to the measurement.

[0051] As used herein, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, "generally" means "in a general manner" with respect to the term being modified.

[0052] As used herein, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, "significantly" means "substantially or to a great extent" with respect to the term being modified.

[0053] As used herein, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, "at" means "on and / or in the vicinity of" with respect to the term being modified.

[0054] As used herein, a "wear reduction assembly" refers to an assembly that includes a plurality of "wear reduction elements". Further, to be a "wear reduction assembly", the "wear reduction elements" must all be associated with a mechanical device / component having an identifiable mechanical purpose or a certain number of related devices / components. That is, for example, in an automobile, the elements of the driveline, such as the engine, transmission, and axles, have an identifiable mechanical purpose of imparting motion to the vehicle. Thus, generally speaking, the "wear reduction elements" associated with an automobile driveline can be a "wear reduction assembly". In contrast, a "wear reduction element" that is part of an automobile driveline and a "wear reduction element" that is part of an automobile air conditioner cannot form a "wear reduction assembly" because the automobile driveline and the automobile air conditioner do not have the same "identifiable mechanical purpose". That is, as used herein, an "identifiable mechanical purpose" refers to a purpose related to the operation of a mechanical device / component. Thus, in the above example, the purpose of an automobile driveline is to provide motion to the vehicle, while the purpose of an automobile air conditioner is to provide comfort to the passengers. Further, a purpose such as, but not limited to, "providing a comfortable journey for the passengers" is not an "identifiable mechanical purpose" because a mechanical element cannot be "comfortable".

[0055] Further, as used herein, to be a "wear reduction assembly", the assembly must include different types of "wear reduction elements". That is, an assembly that includes only bearings (which includes an assembly having different types of bearings) cannot be a "wear reduction assembly" because all the "wear reduction elements" are of the same type.

[0056] As used herein, a "wear reduction element" refers to an element / component that is configured to significantly reduce wear in a specific location on another element and / or reduce wear caused by forces in a non-primary direction associated with motion in the primary direction.

[0057] As used herein, "in a specific location" refers to a local area. For example, a slender, generally circular rod appears circular when viewed in cross-section. If another element rubs against the rod at the "one o'clock" position and only at one end of the rod, i.e., causing wear, the wear is "in a specific location". If another element engages the rod at one end over 360°, the wear is not "in a specific location". Similarly, if another element engages the rod along its longitudinal length at the "one o'clock" position, the wear is not "in a specific location". Thus, "in a specific location" refers to a small discrete area relative to the total surface area of the engaged element, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0058] In addition, as used herein, "wear generated by a force applied to the element in a plane other than the plane of rotation of the rotating element" means wear on the element caused by a force that is not applied substantially in the plane of rotation of the rotating element (or the element supporting the rotating element) or in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of rotation of the element. As used herein, the "plane of rotation" of a rotating element is a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotating element. In addition, as used herein, an annular bearing assembly does not "have wear generated by a force applied to the element in a plane other than the plane of rotation of the rotating element", and thus, an annular bearing assembly cannot be a "wear-reducing element" as defined above. Instead, and as used herein, a spherical bearing disposed around such a cylindrical member improves the forces applied in any direction. Thus, a spherical bearing is configured and does "have wear generated by a force applied to the element in a plane other than the plane of rotation of the rotating element". Thus, as used herein, a spherical bearing is a "wear-reducing element".

[0059] Figure 1 A press such as, for example but not limited to, conversion press 10 is shown. As is well known, conversion press 10 is configured to form can ends (not shown). That is, conversion press 10 includes an upper tool 12 (shown in simplified form in the dash-dot drawing) and a lower tool 14 (shown in simplified form in the dash-dot drawing), each of the upper and lower tools supporting a number of forming structures (not numbered). Upper tool 12 reciprocates between a first position in which upper tool 12 is spaced from lower tool 14 and a second forming position in which upper tool 12 is adjacent to lower tool 14. That is, conversion press 10 is configured to form metal when in the second position. The raw material, i.e., metal from a sheet or wire (e.g., see Figure 2 the pull tab stock 200 shown in simplified form in Figure 2 ), passes through conversion press 10 and is formed into a can end. That is, the can end raw material (or the shell in some embodiments) is formed into the disc-shaped body of the can end. The pull tab stock 200 is formed into a pull tab for the can end (e.g., see

[0060] the pull tab 202 partially formed on the pull tab stock material 200 shown in simplified form in Figure 2) When this occurs, the tab stock 200 does not move. Accordingly, the tab stock feeder assembly 20 is configured to index the tab stock 200 through the transfer press 10, i.e., to move the tab stock intermittently through the transfer press.

[0061] As shown Figures 2 to 7 in more detail in FIG. 2. In an exemplary embodiment, the tab stock feeder assembly 20 includes a plurality of support elements 22, a plurality of rotating elements 24, and a number of operating elements 26. As used herein, a "support element" is an element that supports a "rotating element". As used herein, a "rotating element" is an element that rotates or pivots (including a reciprocating pivoting motion), and which... A "rotating element" is capable of supporting another element, and thus, a single element can be both a "support element" and a "rotating element". As used herein, an "operating element" is an element that operably engages or is operably engaged with another element. Each rotating element 24 is rotatably coupled to an associated support element 22. That is, as used herein, the support element 22 to which the rotating element 24 is most closely coupled (i.e., with the fewest intervening elements) is the "associated support element" 22. Each operating element 26 is coupled to at least one support element 22 or one rotating element 24 and is configured to engage the rotating element 24. The tab stock feeder assembly 20 further includes a wear reduction assembly 30 that includes a plurality of wear reducing elements 32. The plurality of support elements 22 cause at least one wear reducing element 32 of the wear reduction assembly to be disposed between the rotating element 24 and the associated support element 22.

[0062] In an exemplary non-limiting embodiment, the tab stock feeder assembly 20 and / or the plurality of support elements 22 include a base 40 and a lift member assembly 42. The base 40 itself may move (e.g., pivot) and / or may contain or include one or more moving elements (such as, but not limited to, drive wheels 28; rotating shafts 74). The tab stock feeder assembly 20 and / or the plurality of rotating elements 24 include a lift member assembly 42 and a cam member 44 (best shown in Figure 3 FIG. 3). A number of operating elements 26 include cam followers 46. The base 40 includes a generally planar upper surface 50, while the lift member assembly 42 includes an opposing generally planar lower surface 60. As Figure 6As shown in the cross-sectional view, the base 40 defines a plurality of hinge sleeves 52. The lifting member assembly 42 defines a plurality of hinge sleeves 62. The lifting member assembly 42 also includes a generally cylindrical hinge pin 64. In another exemplary and non-limiting example, the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly is considered to be part of the base 40. The lifting member assembly 42 is rotatably, i.e., pivotally, coupled to the base 40 by the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly. That is, the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly is disposed in both the plurality of hinge sleeves 52 of the base and the plurality of hinge sleeves 62 of the lifting member assembly.

[0063] Referring Figure 3 , in an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the cam member 44 is an eccentric cam, i.e., a generally circular body 70 having a coupling 72, i.e., a passage offset from the center of the circular body 70. The cam member 44 is coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to the rotary shaft 74. The rotary shaft 74 extends through the base 40 or is otherwise disposed adjacent to the base, opposite the plurality of hinge sleeves 52 of the base. A drive assembly (not shown) of the transfer press operatively engages the rotary shaft 74 and rotates the rotary shaft 74. The cam follower 46, shown as a wheel 76, is coupled or rotatably coupled to the lifting member assembly 42 opposite the cam member 44, i.e., in a position where the cam follower 46 is configured and operable to engage the cam member 44.

[0064] In this configuration, the lifting member assembly 42 is configured and does pivotally reciprocate between a first position where the lifting member assembly 42 is generally adjacent to the base 40 and a second position where the lifting member assembly 42 is generally spaced apart from the base 40. That is, in the first position, the lower surface 60 of the lifting member assembly is generally parallel to and adjacent to the upper surface 50 of the base. In the second position, the lower surface 60 of the lifting member assembly is generally angled relative to the upper surface 50 of the base; thus, there is a space between the lower surface 60 of the lifting member assembly and the upper surface 50 of the base. It will be appreciated that when the cam member 44 rotates and engages the cam follower 46, the lifting member assembly 42 pivotally reciprocates between the first position and the second position. In an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the lifting member assembly 42 preferably pivots on an arc between 0 and 10 degrees, and more preferably, pivots less than 1 degree. It will be understood that reducing the relative amount of movement in the above manner has the advantage of reducing the amount of lift, thereby reducing the amount of associated force required and thus resulting in a longer service life for all associated components.

[0065] As Figures 2 to 7As shown, the pull tab stock feeder assembly 20 further includes a drive wheel 28. The drive wheel 28 of the pull tab stock feeder assembly is operatively engaged with a drive assembly (not shown) of the transfer press and rotates relative to the base 40. The axis of rotation of the drive wheel 28 of the pull tab stock feeder assembly extends generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the hinge pin 64 of the lift member assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive wheel 28 of the pull tab stock feeder assembly is disposed below the height of the lift member assembly 42.

[0066] In addition, the plurality of support elements 22 includes support arms 80, and the plurality of rotating elements 24 includes a biasing roller assembly 90. The support arms 80 are coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to the lift member assembly 42 and move therewith. That is, the support arms 80 include an elongate body 82 having a first end 83 and a second end 84 (best shown in the Figure 7 magnified cross-sectional view). The first end 83 of the support arm body is coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to the lift member assembly 42. In an exemplary embodiment, the lift member assembly 42 includes a support arm bracket 86 extending from other portions of the lift member assembly 42. The first end 83 of the support arm body is coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to the support arm bracket 86. In addition, the second end 84 of the support arm body defines a bracket channel 88. The second end 84 of the support arm body includes the bracket channel 88, which extends generally parallel to the axis of rotation of the hinge pin 64 of the lift member assembly.

[0067] As Figure 7 best shown, the biasing roller assembly 90 is disposed at the second end 84 of the support arm body. The biasing roller assembly 90 includes a first roller 92, a shaft 94, and a second roller 96. In an exemplary embodiment, the shaft 94 of the biasing roller assembly is split into two parts, and each half is configured and coupled to each other to form the shaft 94 of the biasing roller assembly. That is, in an exemplary embodiment, the biasing roller assembly 90 includes a first part 100 (the first part includes the first roller 92 and the first half 93 of the shaft as a single body) and a second part 102 (the second part includes the second roller 96 and the second half 95 of the shaft as a single body. The first part 100 and the second part 102 of the biasing roller assembly are coupled to form the biasing roller assembly 90. In addition, in an exemplary embodiment, the first roller 92 of the biasing roller assembly and the second roller 96 of the biasing roller assembly have a "roller radius". The shaft 94 of the biasing roller assembly includes a first portion 110 having a first radius and a second portion 112 having a second radius. The roller radius is greater than the first radius, and the first radius is greater than the second radius.

[0068] In an exemplary, non - limiting embodiment, the biasing roller assembly 90 further includes a motion limiter 130. The motion limiter 130 of the biasing roller assembly is configured and does limit the rotation of the biasing roller assembly 90 about an axis of the biasing roller assembly 90 relative to the support arm 80. That is, as used herein, the coupling of the biasing roller assembly 90 and the support arm 80 includes three axes; an "X - axis", which is the axis extending along the axis of rotation of the biasing roller assembly 90, a "Y - axis", which extends along the direction of pull - tab material movement as described below, and a "Z - axis", which extends along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support arm 80. In the exemplary embodiment, the motion limiter 130 of the biasing roller assembly is configured and does limit the rotation of the biasing roller assembly 90 about the "Z - axis".

[0069] That is, the motion limiter 130 of the biasing roller assembly includes a first annular body 132 and a second annular body 134. The first annular body 132 of the motion limiter of the biasing roller assembly is disposed between the first roller 92 of the biasing roller assembly and the second end 84 of the support arm body. The second annular body 134 of the motion limiter of the biasing roller assembly is disposed between the second roller 96 of the biasing roller assembly and the second end 84 of the support arm body. Each annular body 132, 134 of the motion limiter of the biasing roller assembly substantially fills the space between the rollers 92, 96 and the support arm body 82, particularly the second end 84. In this configuration, the motion limiter 130 of the biasing roller assembly is configured and does limit the rotation of the biasing roller assembly 90 about an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the support arm 80, i.e., the "Z - axis" as considered above.

[0070] The biasing roller assembly 90 is assembled when the shaft 94 of the biasing roller assembly is disposed in the bracket channel 88 at the second end of the support arm body. As described above, the first annular body 132 of the motion limiter of the biasing roller assembly is disposed between the first roller 92 of the biasing roller assembly and the second end 84 of the support arm body. The second annular body 134 of the motion limiter of the biasing roller assembly is disposed between the second roller 96 of the biasing roller assembly and the second end 84 of the support arm body. It will be appreciated that, in addition to providing significantly improved wear reduction and thus increased service life compared to prior art designs where metal components typically directly engage and move relative to each other resulting in significant wear, the above - described assembly also facilitates relatively quick and easy assembly, disassembly, repair, and reassembly when needed.

[0071] Finally, in the exemplary embodiment, the pull - tab feeder assembly 20 includes a material guiding assembly 140 (best shown in Figure 2 ). As Figure 2As shown, the tab stock guiding assembly 140 includes generally planar members 142, 144, 146, 148, which are arranged in pairs. That is, the planar member 142 of the tab stock guiding assembly is narrowly spaced from the planar member 144 of the tab stock guiding assembly, and the planar member 146 of the tab stock guiding assembly is narrowly spaced from the planar member 148 of the tab stock guiding assembly. The spacing between the planar members 142, 144, 146, 148 of the tab stock guiding assembly is slightly greater than the thickness of the tab stock. In addition, the pairs of planar members 142, 144 and 146, 148 of the tab stock guiding assembly are also spaced from each other. The drive wheel 28 (more specifically, the radially outer surface of the drive wheel 28 (not labeled in the drawings)) is disposed in the gap between the pairs of planar members 142, 144 and 146, 148 of the tab stock guiding assembly.

[0072] In this configuration, the tab stock feeder assembly 20 generally operates as follows. The tab stock 200 (shown in simplified form) moves through the tab stock guiding assembly 140 until it reaches the gap between the pairs of planar members 142, 144 and 146, 148 of the tab stock guiding assembly. When the lifting member assembly 42 and thus the support arm 80 and the biasing roller assembly 90 move to the first position, the biasing roller assembly 90 biases the tab stock 200 against the drive wheel 28, which itself rotates and causes the tab stock 200 to move toward and between the tools (such as but not limited to Figure 1 the upper tool 12 and the lower tool 14). When the tools 12, 14 move to their second position, i.e., the forming position, the lifting member assembly 42 and thus the support arm 80 and the biasing roller assembly 90 move to their second position. In the second position, the biasing roller assembly 90 does not bias the tab stock 200 against the drive wheel 28. Thus, when the tools 12, 14 are in the second position for forming, the tab stock 200 is stationary. When the tools 12, 14 move to the first position, the lifting member assembly 42 and thus the support arm 80 and the biasing roller assembly 90 move back to the first position, causing the tab stock 200 to move as described above. Thus, when the tools 12, 14 form the tab stock 200 into a tab 202 and / or when the tab 202 is attached to the can end (not shown), the tab stock feeder assembly 20 is configured and does cause the tab stock 200 to index, i.e., to move intermittently.

[0073] In this configuration, the various elements of the tab stock feeder assembly 20 are subject to wear. For example, referring to Figure 6, when the lifting member assembly 42 pivots preferably on an arc between 0 and 10 degrees and more preferably pivots less than 1 degree, the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly is worn at a specific location. That is, the wear is restricted to the area of the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly that contacts the plurality of hinge sleeves 52 of the base and the plurality of hinge sleeves 62 of the lifting member assembly, and is restricted by the arc of motion. That is, the wear does not extend around the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly. Additionally, referring to Figure 2 , 3 , 5, 6, and 7, the biasing roller assembly 90 is subject to wear caused by forces applied to the element in a plane other than the plane of rotation of the rotating element. That is, the biasing roller assembly 90 is subject to forces in a plane other than the plane of rotation of the biasing roller assembly 90. The wear reduction assembly 30 is configured to and does reduce the wear on the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly and the biasing roller assembly 90.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of wear reduction elements 32 of the wear reduction assembly include a certain number of ball bearings 150 and a plurality of one-way clutch devices 160. At least one such wear reduction element 32 is disposed between the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly and at least one of the plurality of hinge sleeves 52 of the base and / or the plurality of hinge sleeves 62 of the lifting member assembly, as best shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 6 . Additionally, at least one such wear reduction element 32 is disposed between the biasing roller assembly 90 and the support arm 80, as best shown in the enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 7 .

[0075] As Figure 6As shown, in an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the one-way clutch device 160 is disposed between the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly and one of the hinge sleeves 62 of the lifting member assembly. In an embodiment not shown, the one-way clutch device 160 is a spring clutch, i.e., a spring-like member helically wound around the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the one-way clutch device 160 is a one-way clutch bearing 162. The one-way clutch bearing 162 includes an inner race 164, an outer race 166, and a plurality of non-spherical bearing elements 168 therebetween. The non-spherical bearing elements 168 are typically referred to as "wedges". The non-spherical bearing elements 168 are configured and do allow the inner race 164 and the outer race 166 to rotate relative to each other in a single direction. Further, the inner race 164 is fixed to the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly, and the outer race 166 is fixed to the hinge sleeve 62 of the lifting member assembly. In this configuration, and when the lifting member assembly 42 reciprocates between the first and second positions, the one-way clutch bearing 162 causes the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly to rotate in a single direction. That is, for example, when the lifting member assembly 42 moves toward the first position, the races 164, 166 of the one-way clutch bearing rotate relative to each other, and thus, the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly does not move. When the lifting member assembly 42 moves toward the second position, the races 164, 166 of the one-way clutch bearing do not rotate relative to each other. Since the inner race 164 is fixed to the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly and the outer race 166 is fixed to the hinge sleeve 62 of the lifting member assembly, this causes the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly to rotate relative to the hinge sleeve 62 of the lifting member assembly. Thus, any wear that occurs between the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly and the hinge sleeve 62 of the lifting member assembly occurs around the hinge pin 64 of the lifting member assembly, i.e., 360 degrees. Thus, wear is no longer caused in a particular case. This solves the above problem.

[0076] In addition, in Figure 7 the exemplary and non-limiting embodiment shown, a spherical roller bearing 170 is disposed between the biasing roller assembly 90 and the support arm 80. That is, the spherical roller bearing 170 is disposed in the bracket channel 88 at the second end of the support arm body between the support arm 80 and the second portion 112 of the shaft of the biasing roller assembly. In this configuration, a force along the "Y-axis" causes the biasing roller assembly 90 to rotate about the "Y-axis". This movement both reduces wear on the biasing roller assembly 90 and allows the biasing roller assembly 90 to uniformly engage the pull tab stock 200 ( Figure 2 ). A pair of annular bearing assemblies (such as an annular ball bearing 172) is preferably disposed in the bracket channel 88 at the second end of the upper arm body between the first portion 110 of the shaft of the biasing roller assembly and the proximate opposite end of the shaft 94, as Figure 7As shown. It will be understood that the foregoing features are used singly and / or in combination to solve the above problems.

[0077] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and alternatives to these details can be developed under the inspiration of the general teachings of this disclosure. Therefore, the specific arrangements disclosed are merely illustrative and not a limitation on the scope of the present invention, which scope will be given the full scope of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A pull tab feeder assembly (20) for a press (10), the pull tab feeder assembly (20) comprising: A plurality of support elements (22); A plurality of rotating elements (24); A certain number of operating elements (26); Each rotating element (24) is rotatably coupled to an associated support element (22); Each operating element (26) is coupled to at least one of the plurality of support elements (22) or one of the plurality of rotating elements (24), and wherein each of the operating elements (26) is configured to engage the rotating element (24); A wear reduction assembly (30) including a plurality of first wear reduction elements (32); and Wherein the plurality of support elements (22) dispose at least one first wear reduction element of the wear reduction assembly between the rotating element (24) and the associated support element (22); The plurality of support elements (22) includes a base (40) and a lifting member assembly (42); The plurality of rotating elements (24) includes the lifting member assembly (42) and a cam member (44); The certain number of operating elements (26) includes a cam follower (46); The cam member (44) is rotatably coupled to the base (40); The lifting member assembly (42) is rotatably coupled to the base (40); The cam follower (46) is coupled to the lifting member assembly (42) and is configured to operably engage the cam member (44); Wherein the cam member (44) is configured to rotate on the base (40) and operably engage the cam follower (46), whereby the lifting member assembly (42) is configured to move between a first position in which the lifting member assembly (42) is generally adjacent to the base (40) and a second position in which the lifting member assembly (42) is generally spaced apart from the base (40) in a reciprocating pivoting motion; and Wherein the plurality of first wear reduction elements (32) includes a certain number of first ball bearings (150) and a certain number of one-way clutch devices (160); The lifting member assembly (42) includes a hinge pin (64) and a plurality of hinge sleeves (62); The base (40) includes a plurality of hinge sleeves (52); Wherein the hinge pin (64) of the lifting member assembly extends through the plurality of hinge sleeves (62) of the lifting member assembly and the plurality of hinge sleeves (52) of the base, thereby pivotally coupling the lifting member assembly (42) to the base (40); Wherein the one-way clutch device (160) is disposed between the hinge pin (64) of the lifting member assembly and at least one of the plurality of hinge sleeves (62) of the lifting member assembly; and Wherein the one-way clutch device (160) is configured to rotate the hinge pin (64) of the lifting member assembly when the lifting member assembly (42) moves between the first position and the second position.

2. The pull tab feeder assembly (20) according to claim 1, wherein: The one-way clutch device (160) is a one-way clutch bearing (162); and The one-way clutch bearing (162) includes an inner race (164) and an outer race (166) and a plurality of non-spherical bearing elements (168) between the inner race and the outer race.

3. The pull-tab feeder assembly (20) according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of support elements (22) further includes a support arm (80); The plurality of rotating elements (24) further includes a biasing roller assembly (90); The support arm (80) includes a body (82) defining a channel (88); The support arm (80) is coupled to the lifting member assembly (42); The biasing roller assembly (90) includes a first roller (92), a shaft (94), and a second roller (96); The shaft (94) of the biasing roller assembly is rotatably disposed in the channel (88) of the support arm; and A plurality of second anti-wear elements (32) are disposed between the biasing roller assembly (90) and the support arm (80), wherein the plurality of second anti-wear elements (32) includes a certain number of spherical roller bearings (170) and a certain number of second ball bearings (172).

4. The pull-tab stock feeder assembly (20) according to claim 3, wherein, The spherical roller bearings (170) are disposed between the shaft (94) of the biasing roller assembly and the support arm (80).

5. The pull-tab feeder assembly (20) according to claim 4, wherein: The biasing roller assembly (90) includes a movement limiter (130); and The movement limiter (130) of the biasing roller assembly is configured to limit the rotation of the biasing roller assembly (90) about an axis of the biasing roller assembly (90) relative to the support arm (80).

6. The pull-tab feeder assembly (20) according to claim 5, wherein: The support arm (80) includes an elongated body (82) having a longitudinal axis; and The movement limiter (130) of the biasing roller assembly is configured to limit the rotation of the biasing roller assembly (90) about an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the support arm (80).

7. A press (10) comprising: An upper tool (12); A lower tool (14); And A pull-tab feeder assembly (20) including: A plurality of support elements (22); A plurality of rotating elements (24); A certain number of operating elements (26); Each rotating element (24) is rotatably coupled to an associated support element (22); Each operating element (26) is coupled to at least one of the plurality of support elements (22) or one of the plurality of rotating elements (24), and wherein each of the operating elements (26) is configured to engage the rotating element (24); and A wear reduction assembly (30) including a plurality of first wear reduction elements (32), wherein a plurality of support elements (22) dispose at least one first wear reduction element (32) of the wear reduction assembly between a rotating element (24) and an associated support element (22), and wherein the tab feeder assembly (20) is configured to feed tab stock between the upper tool (12) and the lower tool (14); The plurality of support elements (22) includes a base (40) and a lift member assembly (42); The plurality of rotating elements (24) includes the lift member assembly (42) and a cam member (44); The certain number of operating elements (26) includes a cam follower (46); The cam member (44) is rotatably coupled to the base (40); The lift member assembly (42) is rotatably coupled to the base (40); The cam follower (46) is coupled to the lift member assembly (42) and is configured to operably engage the cam member (44); wherein the cam member (44) is configured to rotate on the base (40) and operably engage the cam follower (46), whereby the lift member assembly (42) is configured to move between a first position in which the lift member assembly (42) is generally adjacent to the base (40) and a second position in which the lift member assembly (42) is generally spaced apart from the base (40) in a reciprocating pivoting motion; and wherein the plurality of first wear reduction elements (32) includes a certain number of first ball bearings (150) and a certain number of one-way clutch devices (160); The lift member assembly (42) includes a hinge pin (64) and a plurality of hinge sleeves (62); The base (40) includes a plurality of hinge sleeves (52); wherein the hinge pin (64) of the lift member assembly extends through the plurality of hinge sleeves (62) of the lift member assembly and the plurality of hinge sleeves (52) of the base, thereby pivotally coupling the lift member assembly (42) to the base (40); wherein a one-way clutch device (160) is disposed between the hinge pin (64) of the lift member assembly and at least one of the plurality of hinge sleeves (62) of the lift member assembly; and wherein the one-way clutch device (160) is configured to rotate the hinge pin (64) of the lift member assembly when the lift member assembly (42) moves between the first position and the second position.

8. The press (10) according to claim 7, wherein: The one-way clutch device (160) is a one-way clutch bearing (162); and The one-way clutch bearing (162) includes an inner race (164) and an outer race (166) and a plurality of non-spherical bearing elements (168) between the inner race and the outer race.

9. The press (10) according to claim 7, wherein: The plurality of support elements (22) further includes a support arm (80); The plurality of rotating elements (24) further includes a biasing roller assembly (90); The support arm (80) includes a body (82) defining a channel (88); The support arm (80) is coupled to the lifting member assembly (42); The biasing roller assembly (90) includes a first roller (92), a shaft (94), and a second roller (96); The shaft (94) of the biasing roller assembly is rotatably disposed in the channel (88) of the support arm; and A plurality of second anti-wear elements (32) are disposed between the biasing roller assembly (90) and the support arm (80), wherein the plurality of second anti-wear elements (32) includes a certain number of spherical roller bearings (170) and a certain number of second ball bearings (172).

10. The press (10) according to claim 9, wherein, The spherical roller bearings (170) are disposed between the shaft (94) of the biasing roller assembly and the support arm (80).

11. The press (10) according to claim 10, wherein: The biasing roller assembly (90) includes a motion limiter (130); and The motion limiter (130) of the biasing roller assembly is configured to limit the rotation of the biasing roller assembly (90) about an axis of the biasing roller assembly relative to the support arm (80).

12. The press (10) according to claim 11, wherein: The support arm (80) includes an elongated body (82) having a longitudinal axis; and The motion limiter (130) of the biasing roller assembly is configured to limit the rotation of the biasing roller assembly (90) about an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the support arm (80).

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