drive assembly

Abstract

A drive assembly for a necker machine having a frame assembly and a plurality of processing stations includes a plurality of drive sub-modules. Each drive sub-module includes a primary input shaft, a first primary output shaft operatively coupled to the primary input shaft, and a second primary output shaft operatively coupled to the primary input shaft. For a first drive sub-module: the primary input shaft is operatively coupled to and driven by a main drive assembly motor, and the first primary output shaft is operatively coupled to and drives an associated first drive shaft of a first processing station. For a second drive sub-module: the primary input shaft is operatively coupled to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the first drive sub-module, and the first primary output shaft is operatively coupled to and drives an associated first drive shaft of a second processing station.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed and claimed concepts relate to drive components, and more specifically, to drive components for necking machines. Background Technology

[0002] Cans are typically formed in a can-making machine. That is, a can-making machine shapes a blank, such as, but not limited to, a plate or cup, into an elongated can. The can includes a bottom and overhanging sidewalls. The sidewalls are open at the ends opposite the bottom. A can-making machine typically includes a punch / press that moves the blank through a number of dies to form the can. The can is ejected from the punch / press for further processing before being placed on a pallet (which is then transported to a filling machine), such as, but not limited to, trimming, cleaning, printing, folding, and inspection. At the filling machine, the cans are removed from the pallet, filled, with the ends placed on top of each other, and then typically repackaged in various quantities (e.g., six to a pack, twelve to a pack, or other multi-can packages) for sale to consumers.

[0003] Some cans are further shaped in a necking machine after being formed in a can-making machine. The necking machine is constructed to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​a portion of the can's sidewall (i.e., at the open end of the sidewall). In other words, the diameter / radius of the open end of the can's sidewall is reduced relative to the diameter / radius of the rest of the sidewall before the end of the can is attached to the can body. The necking machine contains a number of processing stations and / or forming stations arranged in series. That is, the processing stations and / or forming stations are arranged adjacent to each other, and a conveying assembly moves the can between adjacent processing stations and / or forming stations. As the can moves through the processing stations and / or forming stations, the can is processed or shaped. A large number of processing stations and / or forming stations in the necking machine is undesirable. That is, it is desirable to have the fewest possible number of processing stations and / or forming stations while still achieving the desired forming.

[0004] Current drive assemblies for necking machines typically include oil baths to lubricate the gears. This arrangement is problematic for repair and general maintenance, as the entire gear train serving all forming stations usually needs to be emptied and resealed whenever any work is required. The gears used in such drive assemblies must transmit significant amounts of power and torque during operation and are therefore large steel gears. Other techniques have been employed to attempt to address these issues by using composite materials on some or all of the gears, thus often allowing for the absence of lubrication. However, such gears are typically larger and generate substantial amounts of heat. The lack of lubrication, coupled with the significant heat generated, can lead to rapid degradation of the composite materials and a significant reduction in equipment performance. Summary of the Invention

[0005] These and other deficiencies in the art are addressed by at least one embodiment of the disclosed concept, which provides a drive assembly for a necking machine having a frame assembly and multiple processing stations, each processing station having a number of drive shafts. The drive assembly includes: a plurality of primary drive submodules, each primary drive submodule including: a primary input shaft; a first primary output shaft operatively connected to the primary input shaft; and a second primary output shaft operatively connected to the primary input shaft; wherein, for the first primary drive submodule among the plurality of primary drive submodules: the primary input shaft is configured to be operatively connected to and driven by a main drive assembly motor, and the first primary output shaft is configured to be operatively connected to and drive an associated first drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of a first processing station in a plurality of processing stations; and wherein, for the second primary drive submodule among the plurality of primary drive submodules: the primary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the first primary drive submodule, and the first primary output shaft is configured to be operatively connected to and drive an associated first drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of a second processing station in a plurality of processing stations.

[0006] The plurality of primary drive modules may include at least three primary drive sub-modules, and for the third primary drive sub-module among the plurality of primary drive sub-modules: the primary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the second primary drive sub-module, and the first primary output shaft may be configured to be operatively connected to and drive one of the plurality of drive shafts of the third processing station among the plurality of processing stations.

[0007] For each primary drive submodule, the first primary output shaft can be operatively connected to the primary input shaft via a primary right-angle gearbox.

[0008] At least one primary drive submodule may include a primary clutch unit configured to selectively operatively engage the first primary output shaft to the associated first drive shaft, and the primary clutch unit may selectively move between a first position and a second position: in the first position, the first primary output shaft is operatively engaged to and thus capable of driving the associated first drive shaft, and in the second position, the first primary output shaft is disengaged from and thus unable to drive the associated first drive shaft.

[0009] The at least one primary drive submodule may also include a position sensing system configured to sense and provide an indication of the relative rotational positioning of the first primary output shaft and the associated first drive shaft.

[0010] The at least one primary drive submodule may further include a primary braking unit configured to selectively brake at least one of the primary input shaft, the first primary output shaft, or the second primary output shaft.

[0011] The drive assembly may further include: a plurality of secondary drive sub-modules, each secondary drive sub-module including: a secondary input shaft; a primary output shaft operatively connected to the secondary input shaft; and a secondary output shaft operatively connected to the secondary input shaft; wherein, for the primary drive sub-module among the plurality of secondary drive sub-modules: the secondary input shaft is configured to be connected to and driven by the primary drive assembly motor, and the primary output shaft is configured to be operatively connected to and drive a second drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of the first processing station; and wherein, for the secondary drive sub-module among the plurality of secondary drive sub-modules: the secondary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the secondary output shaft of the primary drive sub-module, and the primary output shaft is configured to be operatively connected to and drive a second drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of the second processing station.

[0012] The drive assembly may further include a main gearbox having a main input shaft, a first main output shaft operatively connected to the main input shaft, and a second main output shaft operatively connected to the main input shaft, wherein the main input shaft of the main gearbox is configured to be operatively connected to and driven by the main drive assembly motor, wherein the primary input shaft of the first primary drive submodule is operatively connected to and driven by the first main output shaft of the main gearbox, and wherein the secondary input shaft of the first primary drive submodule is operatively connected to and driven by the second main output shaft of the main gearbox.

[0013] The plurality of secondary drive modules may include at least three secondary drive sub-modules, wherein for the third secondary drive sub-module among the plurality of secondary drive sub-modules: a secondary input shaft is operatively coupled to and driven by the second secondary output shaft of the second secondary drive sub-module, and a first secondary output shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and drive the second drive shaft of the plurality of drive shafts of the third processing station among the plurality of processing stations.

[0014] For each secondary drive submodule, the primary output shaft can be operatively connected to the secondary input shaft via a secondary right-angle gearbox.

[0015] For each secondary drive submodule, the primary output shaft can be selectively operatively engaged to the secondary input shaft via a secondary clutch unit, and the secondary clutch unit can selectively move between a first position and a second position: in the first position, the primary output shaft is operatively engaged to and driven by the secondary input shaft, and in the second position, the primary output shaft is disengaged from and not driven by the secondary input shaft.

[0016] For each secondary drive submodule, the second secondary output shaft can be selectively operatively connected to the secondary input shaft via a secondary braking unit.

[0017] The drive assembly may further include: the main drive assembly motor, which is operatively connected to the main input shaft of the main gearbox; a primary motor, which is operatively connected to the second primary output shaft of the second primary drive submodule; and a secondary motor, which is operatively connected to the second stage output shaft of the second stage drive submodule.

[0018] As another embodiment of the disclosed concept, a necking machine includes: a frame assembly; a plurality of processing stations, each processing station having a number of drive shafts; and a drive assembly comprising: a plurality of primary drive submodules, each primary drive submodule comprising: a primary input shaft; a first primary output shaft operatively coupled to the primary input shaft; and a second primary output shaft operatively coupled to the primary input shaft; wherein, for the first primary drive submodule among the plurality of primary drive submodules: the primary input shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and driven by a main drive assembly motor, and the first primary output shaft is operatively coupled to and drives a first drive shaft among the number of drive shafts of the first processing station among the plurality of processing stations; and wherein, for the second primary drive submodule among the plurality of primary drive submodules: the primary input shaft is operatively coupled to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the first primary drive submodule, and the first primary output shaft is operatively coupled to and drives a first drive shaft among the number of drive shafts of the second processing station among the plurality of processing stations.

[0019] The drive assembly may further include: a plurality of secondary drive sub-modules, each secondary drive sub-module including: a secondary input shaft; a primary output shaft operatively connected to and driven by the secondary input shaft; and a secondary output shaft operatively connected to and driven by the secondary input shaft; wherein, for the primary drive sub-module among the plurality of secondary drive sub-modules: the secondary input shaft is configured to be connected to and driven by the primary drive assembly motor, and the primary output shaft is operatively connected to and drives a second drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of the first processing station; and wherein, for the secondary drive sub-module among the plurality of secondary drive sub-modules: the secondary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the secondary output shaft of the primary drive sub-module, and the primary output shaft is operatively connected to and drives a second drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of the second processing station.

[0020] The necking machine may further include a main gearbox having a main input shaft, a first main output shaft operatively connected to the main input shaft, and a second main output shaft operatively connected to the main input shaft, wherein the main input shaft of the main gearbox is configured to be operatively connected to and driven by the main drive assembly motor, wherein the primary input shaft of the first primary drive submodule is operatively connected to and driven by the first main output shaft of the main gearbox, and wherein the secondary input shaft of the first primary drive submodule is operatively connected to and driven by the second main output shaft of the main gearbox.

[0021] The necking machine may further include: a main drive assembly motor operatively connected to the main input shaft of the main gearbox; a primary motor operatively connected to the second primary output shaft of the second primary drive submodule; and a secondary motor operatively connected to the second stage output shaft of the second stage drive submodule.

[0022] The first drive shaft of the first processing station can drive the processing device of the first processing station; the second drive shaft of the first processing station can drive the conveying device of the first processing station; the first drive shaft of the second processing station can drive the necking device of the second processing station; and the second drive shaft of the second processing station can drive the conveying device of the second processing station.

[0023] The disclosed concepts, their various objects, features, and characteristics, as well as the operational methods and functions of related elements of the structure, and the economic efficiency of the combination and manufacture of components, will become more apparent by considering the following description and appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form part of this specification, wherein the same reference numerals denote corresponding components in the various drawings. However, it should be clearly understood that the drawings are for illustrative and descriptive purposes only and are not intended to be construed as limiting the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0024] A full understanding of the invention can be obtained from the following description of preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of the front of the necking machine.

[0026] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Another front isometric view of the necking machine.

[0027] Figure 3 for Figure 1 and Figure 2The front view of the necking machine shows the processing station of the necking machine.

[0028] Figure 4 for Figures 1 to 3 The rear front view of the necking machine shows the drive assembly of the necking machine.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the tank.

[0030] Figure 6 A partial perspective view of a drive assembly for a necking machine according to an example embodiment of the disclosed concept.

[0031] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A detailed view of a portion of the driving component.

[0032] Figure 8 for Figure 6 A partial top view of the driving components.

[0033] Figure 9 for Figure 6 and Figure 8 A partial front view of the driving component.

[0034] Figure 10 for Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 A partial three-dimensional schematic diagram of the drive component shown in exploded form.

[0035] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A detailed view of a portion of the driving component. Detailed Implementation

[0036] It should be understood that the specific elements illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concepts, provided as non-limiting examples for illustrative purposes only. Therefore, specific dimensions, orientations, components, number of elements used, embodiment constructions, and other physical characteristics associated with the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0037] Directional phrases used herein, such as clockwise, counterclockwise, left, right, top, bottom, up, down, and their derivatives, refer to the orientation of the elements shown in the accompanying drawings and do not limit the claims, unless expressly stated herein.

[0038] As used herein, the singular forms of “a,” “one,” and “the” include plural references unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise.

[0039] As used herein, “constructed as [verb]” means that the indicated element or component has a structure that is shaped, sized, set, connected, and / or configured to perform the indicated verb. For example, a component “constructed as motion” is movably connected to another element and includes elements that cause said component to move, or said component is otherwise configured to move in response to other elements or components. Therefore, as used herein, “constructed as [verb]” describes a structure rather than a function. Furthermore, as used herein, “constructed as [verb]” means that the indicated element or component is intended and designed to perform the indicated verb. Therefore, an element that is merely capable of performing the indicated verb but is not intended and not designed to perform the indicated verb is not “constructed as [verb]”.

[0040] As used in this article, "associated" means that the components are part of the same assembly and / or operate together, or interact with each other in some way. For example, a car has four tires and four wheel covers. While all the components are connected as part of the car, it should be understood that each wheel cover is "associated" with a specific tire.

[0041] As used herein, a “connecting assembly” comprises two or more connecting elements or connecting components. The components of a connecting element or connecting assembly are typically not part of the same element or other component. Therefore, the components of a “connecting assembly” may not be described simultaneously in the following description.

[0042] As used herein, a “connector” or “connecting member (multiple connecting members)” refers to one or more components of a connecting assembly. That is, a connecting assembly comprises at least two components constructed to be joined together. It should be understood that the components of a connecting assembly are compatible with each other. For example, in a connecting assembly, if one connecting member is a snap-fit ​​socket, the other connecting member is a snap-fit ​​plug, or if one connecting member is a bolt, the other connecting member is a nut or threaded hole. Furthermore, channels in a component are part of a “connector” or “connecting member (multiple connecting members)”. For example, in an assembly of two planks joined together by bolts and nuts extending through channels in the two planks, the nut, bolt, and two channels are each a “connector” or “connecting member”.

[0043] As used herein, a “fastener” is a separate component constructed to connect two or more elements. Thus, for example, a bolt is a “fastener,” but a mortise and tenon joint is not. That is, a mortise and tenon element is part of the elements being connected, not a separate component.

[0044] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are “connected” means that these parts are directly or indirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components) engaged or operate together, provided that the connection occurs. As used herein, “directly connected” means that the two elements are in direct contact with each other. As used herein, “fixedly connected” or “fixed” means that the two components are connected so as to move as a whole while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. As used herein, “adjustably fixed” means that the two components are connected so as to move as a whole while maintaining a constant overall orientation or position relative to each other, while being able to move within a limited range or about a single axis. For example, a door handle is “adjustably fixed” to a door because the door handle is rotatable, but typically the door handle remains in a single position relative to the door. Similarly, the refill (nib and ink reservoir) in a retractable pen is “adjustably fixed” relative to the housing because the refill moves between a retracted position and an extended position, but typically maintains its orientation relative to the housing. Therefore, when two elements are connected, all parts of these elements are connected. However, describing a specific portion of the first element connected to the second element (e.g., the first end of the axle connected to the first wheel) implies that this specific portion of the first element is positioned closer to the second element than the rest of its portion. Furthermore, another object placed solely on top of an object held in place by gravity is not "connected" to the lower object unless the upper object is otherwise held substantially in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not connected to the table, but a book glued to the table is connected to the table.

[0045] As used herein, the phrase "removably connected" or "temporarily connected" means that one component is connected to another component in a substantially temporary manner. That is, the two components are connected in a way that makes joining or separating them easy and without damaging them. For example, two components fastened together using a limited number of easily accessible fasteners (i.e., not hard-to-reach fasteners) are "removably connected," while two components welded together or joined by hard-to-reach fasteners are not "removably connected." A "hard-to-reach fastener" is a fastener for which one or more other components need to be removed before accessing it, where "other components" are not access devices, such as, but not limited to, doors.

[0046] As used herein, “operationally coupled” means that a number of elements or components (each movable between a first position and a second position or between a first configuration and a second configuration) are coupled such that when a first element moves from one position / configuration to another, a second element also moves between positions / configurations. It should be noted that a first element can be “operationally coupled” to another element, but not vice versa.

[0047] As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components “engage” with each other means that the elements directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components apply force or bias to each other. Furthermore, 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 it is in the described position. Therefore, it should 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 it moves to the first position of element A and / or element A engages element B when it is in the first position of element A.

[0048] As used herein, “operationally engaged” means “engaged and movable.” That is, when used relative to a first component that is constructed to move a movable or rotatable second component, “operationally engaged” means that the first component applies a force sufficient to move the second component. For example, a screwdriver can be positioned to contact a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is merely “temporarily engaged” to the screw. If an axial force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver presses against the screw and “engages” it. However, when a rotational force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver “operationally engages” the screw and causes it to rotate. Furthermore, for electronic components, “operationally engaged” means that one component controls another component via a control signal or current.

[0049] As used herein, “corresponding” means that two structural members are configured to be similar in size and shape to each other and that the two structural members can be joined with minimal friction. Therefore, the size of the opening “corresponding” to one member is slightly larger than the member so that the member can pass through the opening with minimal friction. This definition is modified if the two members are to be fitted “tightly” together. In this case, the difference in size between the members is smaller, thereby increasing the amount of friction. The opening can even be slightly smaller than the member inserted into it if the element defining the opening and / or the member inserted into the opening is made of a deformable or compressible material. Regarding surfaces, shapes, and lines, two or more “corresponding” surfaces, shapes, or lines have substantially the same size, shape, and profile.

[0050] As used in this article, the term "monolithic" means a component that is created as a single part or unit. That is, a component that contains parts that are created separately and then joined together as units is not a "monolithic" component or body.

[0051] As used herein, the term “quantity” should mean an integer of one or more (i.e., multiple). That is, for example, the phrase “a certain number of elements” means one element or more elements. It should be noted that the term “a certain ‘quantity’ of [X]” includes a single [X].

[0052] As used herein, in the phrases “[x] moves between its first and second positions” or “[y] is constructed such that [x] moves between its first and second positions,” “[x]” is the name of an element or component. Furthermore, when [x] is an element or component that moves between a number of positions, the pronoun “its” means “[x],” that is, the named element or component preceding the pronoun “its.”

[0053] As used herein, a “radial side / surface” of a circular or cylindrical body is a side / surface extending around its center or around a height line passing through its center, or a side / surface surrounding its center or around a height line passing through its center. As used herein, an “axial side / surface” of a circular or cylindrical body is a side extending in a plane generally perpendicular to a height line passing through the center of the cylinder. That is, typically, for a cylindrical soup pot, a “radial side / surface” is a generally annular sidewall, and “axial side / surfaces (multiple axial side / surfaces)” are the top and bottom of the soup pot. Further, as used herein, “radially extending” means extending in a radial direction or along a radial line. That is, for example, a “radially extending” line extends from the center of the circle or cylinder toward the radial side / surface. Further, as used herein, “axially extending” means extending in an axial direction or along an axial line. That is, for example, an “axially extending” line extends from the bottom of the cylinder toward the top of the cylinder and extends generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cylinder.

[0054] As used herein, the terms “can” and “container” are used interchangeably to refer to any known or suitable container constructed to hold a substance (e.g., but not limited to, liquids; food; any other suitable substance), and explicitly include, but are not limited to, beverage cans (e.g., beer and beverage cans) and food cans.

[0055] As used in this article, "product side" means the side of the container that comes into contact with or may come into contact with a product (such as, but not limited to, food or beverage). In other words, the "product side" of a structure is the side of the structure that ultimately defines the interior of the container.

[0056] As used in this article, "customer side" means the side of the construct used in the container that does not come into contact with or can not come into contact with the product (such as, but not limited to, food or beverage). In other words, the "customer side" of the construct is the side of the construct that ultimately defines the exterior of the container.

[0057] As used herein, the word "around" in phrases such as "set around [component, point, or axis]", "extend around [component, point, or axis]", or "around [component, point, or axis] [X] degrees" means to encircle, extend around, or measure around. When referring to a measurement or used in a similar manner, "approximately" means "approximately," that is, within an approximate range associated with the measurement, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0058] As used herein, "drive assembly" means an element operatively coupled to a rotating shaft extending from rear to front in a processing station. "Drive assembly" does not include a rotating shaft extending from rear to front in a processing station.

[0059] As used herein, “lubrication system” means a system that applies lubricant to the outer surface of the linkage of a drive assembly (e.g., shafts and gears).

[0060] As used herein, "slender" elements inherently include longitudinal axes and / or longitudinal lines extending in the elongation direction.

[0061] As used herein, and as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, “generally” means the “general manner” in relation to the term being modified.

[0062] As used herein, and as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, “substantially” means “to a large extent” in relation to the term being modified.

[0063] As used herein, and as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, “at” means above and / or near the term being modified.

[0064] exist Figures 1 to 4 The examples illustrate an example necking machine 10 that may employ a drive assembly based on the concepts disclosed herein. While a brief description of the general elements and operation of the necking machine 10 is provided herein, a detailed description of the necking machine 10 and its operation is provided in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 407,292, filed May 9, 2019 (co-invented by the same inventor), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other examples of necking machines that may employ a drive assembly based on the concepts disclosed herein are described, for example, but not limited to, U.S. Patent Nos. 8,464,567, 8,601,843, 9,095,888, and 9,308,570, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0065] As previously discussed in the background section, the necking machine 10 is configured to reduce the size of the tank 1 (e.g., Figure 5 The diameter of a portion of the tank 1 (as illustrated in the example). As used herein, "neckback" means reducing the diameter / radius of a portion of the tank 1. That is, as... Figure 5As shown, the can 1 includes a bottom 2 with upwardly overhanging sidewalls 3. The bottom 2 and the sidewalls 3 define a generally enclosed space 4. In the embodiments discussed below, the can 1 is a generally annular and / or elongated cylinder. It should be understood that this is merely an exemplary shape, and the can 1 may have other shapes. The can has a longitudinal axis 5. The sidewalls 3 have a first end 6 and a second end 7. The bottom 2 is located at the second end 7. The first end 6 is open. The first end 6 initially has a radius / diameter that is approximately the same as the sidewall 3. After the forming operation in the necking machine 10, the radius / diameter of the first end 6 is smaller than the radius / diameter of the other portions of the sidewall 3.

[0066] The necking machine 10 typically includes a feed assembly 12, multiple processing / forming stations 14, a conveying assembly 16, and a drive assembly 18. Figure 4 In the following text, processing / forming station 14 is identified by the term "processing station 14" and refers to the general processing station 14. Each processing station 14 has a width W that is substantially the same as all other processing stations 14. Figure 4 Therefore, the length / space occupied by the necking machine 10 is usually determined by the number of processing stations 14 used therein.

[0067] As is well known, the processing stations 14 are adjacent to each other and arranged in series. That is, the tanks 1 processed by the necking machine 10 each move from an upstream position through a series of processing stations 14 in the same order. The tanks 1 follow what is referred to below as "working path 9" ( Figure 3 The path of the constrictor 10. That is, the constrictor 10 defines the working path 9, in which the tank 1 moves from the "upstream" position U to the "downstream" position D, such as... Figure 3 As shown herein, "upstream" generally means closer to feed assembly 12, while "downstream" means closer to outlet assembly 20. Regarding the elements defining the working path 9, each of these elements has an "upstream" end and a "downstream" end, wherein the tank moves from the "upstream" end to the "downstream" end. Therefore, as used herein, the nature / identification of an "upstream" or "downstream" element or assembly, or an element, assembly, sub-assembly, etc., located in an "upstream" or "downstream" position, is inherent. Furthermore, as used herein, the nature / identification of an "upstream" or "downstream" element or assembly, or an element, assembly, sub-assembly, etc., located in an "upstream" or "downstream" position, is a relative term.

[0068] As described above, each processing station 14 has a similar width W (i.e., the distance between the upstream and downstream edges), and the tank 1 is processed and / or shaped (or partially shaped) as it moves across the width W. Typically, the processing / shaping of the tank occurs in / at a rotatable turntable 22 within each processing station 14. That is, the term "turntable 22" refers to a generic turntable. Each processing station 14 includes a rotatable non-vacuum star wheel 24 associated with the turntable 22. As used herein, a "non-vacuum star wheel" refers to a star wheel that does not contain or is not associated with a vacuum assembly configured to apply a vacuum to the star wheel recess. Further, each processing station 14 typically includes one turntable 22 and one non-vacuum star wheel 24.

[0069] The transfer assembly 16 is configured to move the tank 1 between adjacent processing stations 14. The transfer assembly 16 includes a plurality of rotatable vacuum star wheels 26, each of which is part of a corresponding processing station 14. As used herein, "vacuum star wheel" refers to a star wheel assembly that includes or is associated with a vacuum assembly configured to apply a vacuum to star wheel recesses 28. Further, the term "vacuum star wheel 26" refers to a generic vacuum star wheel 26. The vacuum star wheel 26 includes a disc-shaped body (or a disc-shaped body assembly) and a plurality of recesses 28 disposed on or formed in the radial surface of the disc-shaped body. When used in association with a generally cylindrical tank 1, the recesses 28 are generally semi-cylindrical. The vacuum assembly (not labeled) selectively applies suction to each recess 28 and is configured to selectively engage the tank 1 to the recess 28. It should be understood, and as used herein, that “applying a vacuum to pit 28” means applying a vacuum (or suction) to the radially extending channel of the star wheel pit.

[0070] It should be noted that the multiple processing stations 14 can be configured to neck different types of tanks 1 and / or to tanks with different constructions. Therefore, the multiple processing stations 14 are configured to be added to and removed from the necking machine 10 as needed. To achieve this, the necking machine 10 includes a frame assembly 30 to which the multiple processing stations 14 are removably coupled. Alternatively, the frame assembly 30 includes elements incorporated into each of the multiple processing stations 14 such that the multiple processing stations 14 are configured to be temporarily coupled to each other. The frame assembly 30 has an upstream end 32 and a downstream end 34. Further, the frame assembly 30 includes elongated members, panel members (neither labeled), or a combination of both. It is well known that panel members coupled to or connected to elongated members form a housing. Therefore, as used herein, the housing is also referred to as "frame assembly 30".

[0071] When the necking machine 10 is operated, the feed assembly 12 feeds individual cans 1 into the transfer assembly 16, which causes each can 1 to move sequentially from the upstream processing station 14 to the downstream processing station 14. More specifically, each can 1 moves from the vacuum star wheel 26 to the non-vacuum star wheel 24, to the turntable 22 where the forming operation occurs, returns to the aforementioned non-vacuum star wheel 24, and continues to the next downstream vacuum star wheel 26. Typically, each processing station 14 is configured to partially form the can 1 so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the first end 6 of the can gradually decreases as the can 1 moves through the processing station 14. The processing station 14 includes some elements unique to a single processing station 14, such as, but not limited to, a specific mold. Other elements of the processing station 14 (e.g., the turntable 22 and the star wheels 24, 26) are present in all or most of the processing stations 14. This process continues until the tank 1 has passed through all the processing stations 14 along the working path 9 and then leaves the necking machine 10 via the outlet assembly 20.

[0072] refer to Figure 3 In the view shown, to move the tank 1 via the example necking machine 10, each of the turntable 22 and the non-vacuum star wheel 24 rotates clockwise at a first rotational speed via a corresponding processing drive shaft or primary drive shaft 40, while each of the vacuum star wheels 26 rotates counterclockwise at a second rotational speed via a corresponding transfer drive shaft or secondary drive shaft 42. Such rotation of each of the primary drive shaft 40 and secondary drive shaft 42 of each processing station 14 is caused by… Figure 4 The drive assembly 18 illustrated herein provides a belt drive method that addresses, for example, the disadvantages of drive assemblies previously discussed in the background section of this document. The drive assembly 18 includes a plurality of motors 50 and a number of timing / drive belts 52, which are used to cause rotation of the primary drive shaft 40 and secondary drive shaft 42 of each forming station 14.

[0073] The basic operation of the neck-retracting machine 10 has already been described, and now it will be combined with Figures 6 to 11 The discussion focuses on drive assembly 100, which addresses the disadvantages of drive assemblies such as those previously discussed herein, and can be easily sized and constructed to replace drive assembly 18 of necking machine 10 and drive assemblies of other necking machines (e.g., but not limited to, those discussed in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,464,567, 8,601,843, 9,095,888, and 9,308,570). Drive assembly 100 comprises a plurality of drive submodules 101 connected in series (in... Figure 6For reference purposes, six modules are shown respectively, labeled 101A-101H (but other numbers may be used), wherein each drive submodule 101 is configured to drive one or more elements (schematically shown) of a corresponding processing station 14' (e.g., but not limited to the processing station 14 of the necking machine 10) of the necking machine 10'. Figures 6 to 11 In the example embodiment illustrated, each drive submodule 101 includes a primary drive submodule 102 and a secondary drive submodule 202. As used herein, "primary" and "secondary" are used merely to distinguish different components having the same or similar construction and / or arrangement, and are not intended to indicate the rank or relative importance of such components relative to each other or any other components.

[0074] refer to Figure 7 Each primary drive submodule 102 includes a primary input shaft 104, a first primary output shaft 106 operatively coupled to the primary input shaft 104, and a second primary output shaft 108 also operatively coupled to the primary input shaft 104. Therefore, rotation of the primary input shaft 104 in a given rotational direction causes a corresponding rotation of each of the first primary output shaft 106 and the second primary output shaft 108. Figures 6 to 11 In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the first primary output shaft 106 of each primary drive submodule 102 is operatively coupled to its primary input shaft 104 via a primary right-angle gearbox 110 having any suitable arrangement. In such an arrangement, the primary input shaft 104 rotates about a primary input axis (unlabeled), and the first primary output shaft 106 rotates about a first primary output axis (unlabeled) perpendicular to the primary input axis. Further, in Figures 6 to 11In the example embodiment illustrated, the second primary output shaft 108 is aligned with the primary input shaft 104 such that the second primary output shaft 108 rotates about a second primary output axis (not labeled) that coincides with the primary input axis. The use of such a right-angle gearbox 110 eliminates any need for, for example, common oil bath equipment discussed previously in the background section, and generally requires almost no maintenance because such a gearbox 110 can be sealed for life. Furthermore, such a gearbox 110 can utilize compound gears to further reduce / eliminate the need for lubrication. In this example, the primary input shaft 104 and the second primary output shaft 108 are sized to transmit the power required for the entire necking machine 10', while the first primary output shaft 106 is sized (smaller) to transmit only the power required for the associated processing station 14'. It should be understood that other relative dimensions of shafts 104, 106, and 108 may be employed without departing from the scope of the disclosed concepts. Additionally, in this example, each of the primary input shaft 104 and the second primary output shaft 108 comprises a different portion of a single, integral through shaft. However, it should be understood that the primary input axis 104 and the second primary output axis 108 can be separate axes without departing from the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0075] refer to Figure 6 In the primary drive submodule 102 of the leftmost drive submodule 101A (i.e., the most upstream of submodule 101), the primary input shaft 104 is operatively connected to the main drive assembly motor 112 that drives the drive assembly 100. This operative connection between the main drive assembly motor 112 and the primary input shaft 104 can be achieved via any suitable arrangement, such as via the main gearbox 114 (discussed further below), for example... Figures 6 to 11 As illustrated in the example embodiment. Continuing with reference to the upstream submodule 101A, the first primary output shaft 106 of the primary drive submodule 102 is operatively coupled to the first drive shaft 140 of the corresponding processing station 14' via any suitable arrangement. In an example embodiment where the size and configuration of the drive assembly 100 are set to replace the drive assembly 18 of the necking machine 10, the first primary output shaft 106 will be operatively coupled to the primary drive shaft 140 of the upstream processing station 14. For each subsequent downstream primary drive submodule 102, its first primary output shaft 106 is similarly coupled to the corresponding first drive shaft 140 of its associated processing station 14'. Meanwhile, the primary input shaft 104 of each such downstream primary drive submodule 102 is operatively coupled to the second primary output shaft 108 of the immediately adjacent upstream primary drive submodule 102.

[0076] Therefore, in Figures 6 to 11In the example drive assembly 100 illustrated, the primary input shaft 104 of the primary drive submodule 102 of the upstream drive submodule 101A is driven by the main drive assembly motor 112 via the main gearbox 114. The aforementioned primary drive shaft 104 drives the corresponding first primary output shaft 106 (which drives the first drive shaft 140 of the associated processing station 14'), and also drives the second primary output shaft 108 (which drives the primary input shaft 104 of the primary drive submodule 102 of the adjacent downstream drive submodule 101B). The operation of drive submodule 101B is similar to that of drive submodule 101A, thus driving the first drive shaft 140 of its associated corresponding processing station 14' and the primary drive submodule 102 of the next downstream drive submodule 101C. The drive arrangement is identical along the entire length of the drive assembly 100, regardless of whether it has only two primary drive submodules 102 or up to twenty or more primary drive submodules 102. The combination of all primary drive submodules 102 forms a primary drive line 160, which extends with the length of the necker 10'. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, all primary drive submodules 102 have the same arrangement; however, it should be understood that the arrangement of a particular primary drive submodule 102 within the primary drive line 160 may vary for a particular application without departing from the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0077] To assist in the timing of each primary drive module 102 with its associated processing station 14' of the necking machine 10', one or more of the primary drive modules 102 may include a primary clutch unit 150, which is positioned to selectively engage a first primary output shaft 106 to a corresponding first drive shaft 140 of the associated processing station 14'. Each primary clutch unit 150 is selectively movable between a first position and a second position: in the first position, the first primary output shaft 106 is operatively engaged with and thus able to drive the first drive shaft 140; in the second position, the first primary output shaft 106 is disengaged from and thus unable to drive the first drive shaft 140. In the event of congestion or other problems within the processing station 14', the primary clutch unit 150 can be used to disengage the associated primary drive module 102 from the processing station 14', thereby preventing mechanical damage to one or both of the processing station 14' or the primary drive modules. Such an arrangement may further include a position sensing system (unlabeled) configured to sense and provide indication of the relative rotational positioning of the first primary output shaft 106 and the first drive shaft 140. Additionally, one or more braking mechanisms (unlabeled) may be provided along the primary drive line 160 for selectively braking the primary drive line 160 to safely stop it or otherwise control its speed.

[0078] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in order to control the windup of the primary drive line 160 from the main drive assembly motor 112, the drive assembly 100 may further include a primary drag motor 162, which is connected via the downstream drive submodule 101 (e.g., Figure 6 The second primary output shaft 108 of the primary drive submodule 102 of the drive submodule 101H is operatively coupled to the primary drive line 160. In one example embodiment, a primary traction motor 162 with approximately 20% of the power of the main drive component motor 112 is used; however, primary traction motors 162 with different relative dimensions may be used without departing from the scope of the disclosed concept.

[0079] Refer again Figure 7Each secondary drive submodule 202 has a substantially the same or similar arrangement as its associated primary drive submodule 102, and therefore includes a secondary input shaft 204, a primary output shaft 206 operatively coupled to the secondary input shaft 204, and a secondary output shaft 208 also operatively coupled to the secondary input shaft 204. Therefore, rotation of the secondary input shaft 204 in a given rotational direction causes a corresponding rotation of each of the primary output shaft 206 and the secondary output shaft 208. Figures 6 to 11 In the example embodiment illustrated, the primary output shaft 206 of each secondary drive submodule 202 is operatively coupled to its secondary input shaft 204 via a secondary right-angle gearbox 210. Each secondary right-angle gearbox 210 can be of any suitable arrangement without departing from the scope of the disclosed concept. In the example embodiment, each secondary right-angle gearbox 210 has a substantially the same arrangement as each primary right-angle gearbox 110, but with a smaller size due to its smaller output power requirements. In such an arrangement, the secondary input shaft 204 rotates about a secondary input axis (unlabeled), and the primary output shaft 206 rotates about a primary output axis (unlabeled) perpendicular to the secondary input axis. Further, in Figures 6 to 11 In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the secondary output shaft 208 is aligned with the secondary input shaft 204 such that the secondary output shaft 208 rotates about a secondary output axis (unlabeled) that coincides with the secondary input axis. The use of such a right-angle gearbox 210 eliminates any need for public oil bath equipment, such as those discussed in the background art, and generally requires almost no maintenance because such a gearbox 210 can be sealed for life. Furthermore, such a gearbox 210 can utilize compound gears to further reduce / eliminate the need for lubrication.

[0080] refer to Figure 6 In the secondary drive submodule 202 of the leftmost drive submodule 101A (i.e., the uppermost submodule 101), the secondary input shaft 204 is operatively connected to the main drive assembly motor 112. This operative connection between the main drive assembly motor 112 and the secondary input shaft 204 can be achieved through any suitable arrangement. Figures 6 to 11In the example embodiment illustrated, such a connection between the main drive motor 112 and the secondary input shaft 204 is achieved via a main gearbox 114. In such an example, the main gearbox 114 includes a main input shaft 170, a first main output shaft 172, and a second main output shaft 174 operatively connected to the main drive assembly motor 112. In such an example embodiment, the first main output shaft 172 is operatively connected to the main input shaft 170 to rotate in the same direction and at the same speed as the main input shaft 170. Simultaneously, the second main output shaft 174 is operatively connected to the main input shaft 170 to rotate in the opposite direction to the main input shaft 170 at 3 / 5 of the speed of the main input shaft. As previously generally described, the first main output shaft 172 is operatively connected to the primary input shaft 104 of the primary drive module 102 of the upstream drive submodule 101A. The second main output shaft 174 is operatively connected to the secondary input shaft 204 of the secondary drive module 202 of the upstream drive submodule 101A. In another example embodiment, in the secondary drive submodule 202 of the leftmost drive submodule 101A (i.e., the upstream submodule 101), the secondary input shaft 204 is operatively coupled to the secondary drive component motor instead of the main drive component motor 112. In such an arrangement, due to the smaller power requirements of the secondary drive arrangement, the size of the secondary drive component motor can be set smaller than that of the main drive component motor 112.

[0081] Referring again to the upstream submodule 101A, the first-stage output shaft 206 of the secondary drive submodule 202 is operatively coupled to the second drive shaft 142 of the corresponding processing station 14'. In an example embodiment where the drive assembly 100 is sized and configured to replace the drive assembly 18 of the necking machine 10, the first-stage output shaft 206 is operatively coupled to the secondary drive shaft 142 of the upstream processing station 14. For each of the downstream subsequent secondary drive submodules 202, its first-stage output shaft 206 is operatively coupled to the corresponding second drive shaft 142 of its associated processing station 14', and the secondary input shaft 204 of each such downstream secondary drive submodule 202 is operatively coupled to the second-stage output shaft 208 of the adjacent upstream secondary drive submodule 204.

[0082] Therefore, in Figures 6 to 11In the example drive assembly 100 illustrated, the secondary input shaft 204 of the secondary drive module 202 of the upstream drive submodule 101A is driven by the main drive assembly motor 112 via the main gearbox 114. The aforementioned secondary drive shaft 204 drives the corresponding primary output shaft 206 (which drives the second drive shaft 142 of the associated processing station 14'), and also drives the secondary output shaft 208 (which drives the secondary input shaft 204 of the secondary drive submodule 202 of the adjacent downstream drive submodule 101B). Drive submodule 101B operates similarly to drive submodule 101A, thus driving the second drive shaft 142 of its associated corresponding processing station 14' and the secondary drive submodule 202 of the next downstream drive submodule 101C. The drive arrangement is identical along the entire length of the drive assembly 100, regardless of whether it has only two secondary drive submodules 202 or more. The combination of all the secondary drive submodules 202 forms a secondary drive line 260 that extends along the primary drive line 160 by the length of the necker 10'. In the exemplary embodiment described, all the secondary drive submodules 202 have the same arrangement; however, it should be understood that the arrangement of a particular secondary drive submodule 202 within the secondary drive line 260 can vary for a particular application without departing from the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0083] To assist in the timing of each secondary drive module 202 with its associated processing station 14' of the necking machine 10', one or more of the secondary drive modules 202 may include a secondary clutch unit (not labeled) positioned to selectively engage a primary output shaft 206 to an associated second drive shaft 142 of the associated processing station 14'. Each secondary clutch unit is selectively movable between a first position in which the primary output shaft 206 is operatively engaged with and thus able to drive the second drive shaft 142, and in the second position in which the primary output shaft 206 is disengaged from and thus unable to drive the second drive shaft 142. In the event of congestion or other problems within the processing station 14', the secondary clutch unit can be used to disengage the associated secondary drive module 202 from the processing station 14', thereby preventing mechanical damage to one or both of the processing station 14' or the secondary drive module 202. Such an arrangement may further include a position sensing system (unlabeled) configured to sense and provide indication of the relative rotational positioning of the first primary output shaft 206 and the second drive shaft 142. Additionally, one or more braking mechanisms (unlabeled) may be provided along the secondary drive line 260 for selectively braking the secondary drive line 260 to safely stop it or otherwise control its speed.

[0084] like Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in order to control the tightening of the secondary drive line 260 from the main drive assembly motor 112, the drive assembly 100 may further include a secondary traction motor 262, which is connected via the downstream drive submodule 101 (e.g., Figure 6 The secondary output shaft 208 of the secondary drive submodule 202 of the drive submodule 101H is operatively coupled to the secondary drive line 260. In another example embodiment, the secondary drive line 260 is coupled to the primary traction motor 162, for example, via a suitable gearbox, rather than to a separate secondary traction motor 262.

[0085] Therefore, it can be understood from the foregoing example embodiments that embodiments of the concepts disclosed herein can readily replace conventional drive systems that traditionally use large gear trains, which require significant power, lubrication baths, and are subjected to gear meshing or backlash. Such disclosed concepts can also readily replace other alternatives that have been attempted or conceived. It should also be understood that the modular design of the drive assembly as described herein allows for easy isolation, maintenance, and replacement of components within the assembly without requiring complete disassembly or replacement of the entire drive assembly. Such a design also allows for easy resolution of congestion or other faults in minimal time.

[0086] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and substitutions can be made to these details in light of the general teachings of this disclosure. Therefore, the specific arrangements disclosed are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims and the full scope of any and all their equivalents.

Claims

1. A drive assembly for a necking machine, the necking machine having a frame assembly and multiple processing stations, each processing station having a number of drive shafts, the drive assembly comprising: Multiple primary driver submodules, each primary driver submodule includes: Primary input axis; A first primary output shaft, operatively coupled to the primary input shaft; and A second primary output shaft is operatively connected to the primary input shaft; Specifically, for the first primary driver submodule among the plurality of primary driver submodules: The primary input shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and driven by the main drive assembly motor. The first primary output shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and drive an associated first drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of a first processing station in a plurality of processing stations, and Specifically, for the second primary driver submodule among the plurality of primary driver submodules: The primary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the first primary drive submodule. The first primary output shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and drive the associated first drive shaft of the plurality of drive shafts of the second processing station in a plurality of processing stations. The driving component further includes: Multiple secondary driver submodules, each including: Secondary input axis; A primary stage output shaft, operatively connected to the secondary input shaft; and A second-stage output shaft, which is operatively connected to the second-stage input shaft; Specifically, for the first-level driver submodule among the plurality of secondary driver submodules: The secondary input shaft is configured to be coupled to and driven by the main drive assembly motor. The first stage output shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and drive a second drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of the first processing station, and Specifically, for the second-level driver submodule among the plurality of secondary driver submodules: The secondary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the secondary output shaft of the primary drive submodule. The first stage output shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and drive the second drive shaft of the plurality of drive shafts of the second processing station.

2. The driving component according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of primary driver modules include at least three primary driver sub-modules, and Specifically, for the third primary driver submodule among the plurality of primary driver submodules: The primary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the second primary drive submodule. The first primary output shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and drive one of the drive shafts of the third processing station in the plurality of processing stations.

3. The driving component according to claim 1, wherein, For each primary drive submodule, the first primary output shaft is operatively connected to the primary input shaft via a primary right-angle gearbox.

4. The driving component according to claim 1, wherein, At least one primary drive submodule includes a primary clutch unit configured to selectively operatively engage the first primary output shaft to the associated first drive shaft, and wherein the primary clutch unit is selectively movable between a first position in which the first primary output shaft is operatively engaged to the associated first drive shaft and thus capable of driving the associated first drive shaft, and in the second position in which the first primary output shaft is disengaged from the associated first drive shaft and thus cannot drive the associated first drive shaft.

5. The driving component according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one primary drive submodule further includes a position sensing system configured to sense and provide an indication of the relative rotational positioning of the first primary output shaft and the associated first drive shaft.

6. The driving component according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one primary drive submodule further includes a primary braking unit configured to selectively brake at least one of the primary input shaft, the first primary output shaft, or the second primary output shaft.

7. The drive assembly of claim 1, further comprising a main gearbox having a main input shaft, a first main output shaft operatively connected to the main input shaft, and a second main output shaft operatively connected to the main input shaft. The main input shaft of the main gearbox is configured to be operatively coupled to and driven by the main drive assembly motor. The primary input shaft of the first primary drive submodule is operatively connected to and driven by the first main output shaft of the main gearbox. The secondary input shaft of the first primary drive submodule is operatively connected to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the main gearbox.

8. The driving component according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of secondary driver modules include at least three secondary driver sub-modules, and Among the plurality of secondary driver submodules, the third-level driver submodule is: The secondary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the secondary output shaft of the secondary drive submodule. The first stage output shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and drive the second drive shaft of the plurality of drive shafts of the third processing station in a plurality of processing stations.

9. The driving component according to claim 1, wherein, For each secondary drive submodule, the primary output shaft is operatively connected to the secondary input shaft via a secondary right-angle gearbox.

10. The driving component according to claim 1, wherein, For each secondary drive submodule, the primary output shaft is selectively operatively coupled to the second drive shaft via a secondary clutch unit, wherein the secondary clutch unit is selectively movable between a first position and a second position: in the first position, the primary output shaft is operatively coupled to and driven by the second drive shaft, and in the second position, the primary output shaft is disengaged from and not driven by the second drive shaft.

11. The driving component according to claim 10, wherein, For each secondary drive submodule, the second secondary output shaft is selectively operatively coupled to the secondary input shaft via a secondary braking unit.

12. The driving component according to claim 7, further comprising: The main drive assembly motor is operatively connected to the main input shaft of the main gearbox; A primary motor, operatively connected to the second primary output shaft of the second primary drive submodule; as well as A secondary motor is operatively connected to the second-stage output shaft of the second-stage drive submodule.

13. A necking machine, comprising: Framework components; Multiple processing stations, each with a certain number of drive shafts, and The driver component includes: Multiple primary driver submodules, each primary driver submodule includes: Primary input axis; A first primary output shaft, operatively coupled to the primary input shaft; and A second primary output shaft is operatively connected to the primary input shaft; Specifically, for the first primary driver submodule among the plurality of primary driver submodules: The primary input shaft is configured to be operatively coupled to and driven by the main drive assembly motor. The first primary output shaft is operatively connected to and drives the first drive shaft of the first drive shaft of the first processing station in the first number of processing stations, and Specifically, for the second primary driver submodule among the plurality of primary driver submodules: The primary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the first primary drive submodule. The first primary output shaft is operatively connected to and drives the first drive shaft of the plurality of drive shafts of the second processing station in a plurality of processing stations. The driving component further includes: Multiple secondary driver submodules, each including: Secondary input axis; A first-stage output shaft, operatively coupled to and driven by the second-stage input shaft; and A second-stage output shaft, which is operatively connected to and driven by the second-stage input shaft; Specifically, for the first-level driver submodule among the plurality of secondary driver submodules: The secondary input shaft is configured to be coupled to and driven by the main drive assembly motor. The first stage output shaft is operatively connected to and drives the second drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of the first processing station, and Specifically, for the second-level driver submodule among the plurality of secondary driver submodules: The secondary input shaft is operatively connected to and driven by the secondary output shaft of the primary drive submodule. The first stage output shaft is operatively connected to and drives the second drive shaft among the plurality of drive shafts of the second processing station.

14. The necking machine according to claim 13, further comprising a main gearbox, the main gearbox having a main input shaft, a first main output shaft operatively connected to the main input shaft, and a second main output shaft operatively connected to the main input shaft. The main input shaft of the main gearbox is configured to be operatively coupled to and driven by the main drive assembly motor. The primary input shaft of the first primary drive submodule is operatively connected to and driven by the first main output shaft of the main gearbox. The secondary input shaft of the first primary drive submodule is operatively connected to and driven by the second primary output shaft of the main gearbox.

15. The necking machine according to claim 14, further comprising: The main drive assembly motor is operatively connected to the main input shaft of the main gearbox; A primary motor, operatively connected to the second primary output shaft of the second primary drive submodule; as well as A secondary motor is operatively connected to the second-stage output shaft of the second-stage drive submodule.

16. The necking machine according to claim 13, wherein: The first drive shaft of the first processing station drives the processing equipment of the first processing station; The second drive shaft of the first processing station drives the conveying device of the first processing station; The first drive shaft of the second processing station drives the necking device of the second processing station; as well as The second drive shaft of the second processing station drives the conveying device of the second processing station.

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