Lining machine and its rotating can assembly

Abstract

A rotary tank assembly for a liner applicator is provided. The liner applicator is configured to apply a compound to a plurality of container closures. The rotary tank assembly includes a compound tank, a fill tube configured to fill the tank with an amount of the compound to a desired level, a sensor assembly adapted to measure a level of the compound within the compound tank, and a rotary joint assembly configured to pivotably couple the fill tube and the sensor assembly to the compound tank. The sensor assembly requires only a single probe.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 167,542, entitled “Liner and Rotary Tank Assembly Thereof,” filed February 4, 2021. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosed concepts generally relate to machinery for container closures, and more particularly to lining machines for applying coating materials to container closures, such as can ends. The disclosed concepts also relate to can assemblies for lining machines. Background Technology

[0004] It is known to apply a sealant material, commonly referred to as a compound, to the underside of a container closure, for example, to promote the subsequent sealing of the closure to the container (e.g., but not limited to seams), such as beer / beverage and food cans.

[0005] Rotary lining machines are used, for example, for applying linings (i.e., applying sealants or compounds) at relatively high speeds to container closures commonly referred to as can lids, shells, or can ends in relatively high-volume applications. A rotary lining machine generally comprises a base with a chuck assembly. A pivotable upper turret assembly is positioned above the chuck assembly and includes an electric can assembly, a rotating compound can assembly, and multiple circumferentially arranged fluid dispensing devices (e.g., sealant or compound guns). A lower turret assembly rotates the chuck. A downward stacker conveys the can end to a star wheel, which in turn cooperates with a corresponding chuck member of the chuck assembly to support and rotate the can end relative to the fluid dispensing devices.

[0006] Specifically, the star-shaped wheel rotates the can end onto the chuck assembly, which is then raised by cams to receive the can end. The chuck assembly then begins to rotate the can end; this is typically referred to as "pre-rotation." Once the can end reaches the desired rotational speed, a sealant is applied to it via a fluid distribution device (e.g., but not limited to spraying onto it). This is typically referred to as the "spraying time." After the sealant is applied, the can end continues to rotate for a relatively short period to smooth the sealant. This is typically referred to as the "post-rotation time." Finally, the cams lower the chuck assembly and the can end, and each can end is removed and discharged from the rotary lining machine via unloading guides.

[0007] Among other drawbacks, conventional rotary lining machine designs are limited by speed, and by operational and maintenance issues associated with the rotating tank, particularly with the sensor assembly used to measure the level of the compound within the tank. More specifically, the compound enters the tank via a filling valve that opens and closes based on signals received from multiple level sensing probes. The sensor assembly typically includes three level sensors (i.e., sensing probes): a low-level sensor for detecting an "empty" reading; a medium-level sensor for measuring a "full" or "high" reading; and a high-level sensor for detecting an "overflow" reading. The low-level sensor is generally always submerged in the compound. Over time, the compound dries in the tank and can create "bridges" between the level sensors (i.e., a combined set of dried compounds that forms connections or "bridges" between the level sensors). Such "bridges" create current paths for current to flow from sensor probe to sensor probe, adversely affecting the signals and associated readings. Therefore, to restore proper operation, the lining machine must be stopped and the tank assembly must be disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled.

[0008] Additionally, when the can assembly rotates (e.g., at approximately 180-262.5 rpm), the compound is subjected to an induced centrifugal force that causes it to flow outward toward the can wall, resulting in the compound climbing the outer wall of the can, where its level is higher than at the center of the can. This makes it difficult to consistently measure the level of the compound inside the can. Mechanical inserts have been attempted to address this problem by preventing the compound from flowing as it climbs the outer wall of the can. Such inserts are not without their own set of unique drawbacks, and all the aforementioned problems worsen with increasing can rotational speed.

[0009] Therefore, there is room for improvement in the lining machine and the tank assembly used for the lining machine. Summary of the Invention

[0010] These and other requirements are met by embodiments of the disclosed concept, which are directed to a lining machine and a tank assembly therefor. Among other advantages, the tank assembly provides reliable operation and allows the lining machine to operate at faster speeds and increased production volumes.

[0011] As one aspect of the disclosed concept, a rotary can assembly for a lining machine is provided, the lining machine being configured to apply a compound to multiple container closures. The rotary can assembly includes: a compound can; a filling tube configured to fill the can with a quantity of the compound to a desired level; a sensor assembly adapted to measure the level of the compound within the compound can; and a rotary joint assembly configured to pivotally connect the filling tube and the sensor assembly to the compound can. The sensor assembly requires only a single probe.

[0012] The compound container may include a generally cylindrical body, the body including a first end, a second end disposed opposite and away from the first end, an interior having an inner diameter, and a height defined by the distance between the first end and the second end. The inner diameter of the compound container may be less than 5.125 inches.

[0013] A single probe may be a guided pulse level sensor. The sensor assembly may include a quick connector for electrically connecting and disconnecting the single probe.

[0014] A lining machine including the aforementioned rotating tank assembly was also disclosed. Attached Figure Description

[0015] 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:

[0016] Figure 1 It is an isometric view of a lining machine and a tank assembly for the lining machine according to an embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0017] Figure 2 is an isometric view of a conventional tank assembly provided solely for comparison with the disclosed tank assembly;

[0018] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 in Figure 2;

[0019] Figure 4 This is an isometric view of a tank assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosed concept;

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Side view of the tank component;

[0021] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 A sectional view taken from line 6-6;

[0022] Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 The sectional view taken by line 7-7; and

[0023] Figure 8 This is an exploded isometric view of the tank assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0024] It will be appreciated that, although the tank assembly according to the disclosed concept is shown and described herein for use relative to a rotary lining machine for applying sealant or compound to a container closure, it can alternatively be used in other applications for conveying container closures with a variety of other types of equipment and machines (not shown).

[0025] The directional phrases used herein, for example, such as up, down, clockwise, counterclockwise and their derivatives, refer to the orientation of the elements shown in the accompanying drawings and, unless expressly stated herein, do not limit the claims.

[0026] The specific elements shown in the accompanying drawings and described herein are merely exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concepts. Therefore, the particular dimensions, orientations, and other physical characteristics associated with the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosed concepts.

[0027] As used herein, the terms “container closure,” “can end,” “shell,” and / or “cap” are substantially synonymous and are used interchangeably to refer to any known or suitable closure element applied to (e.g., but not limited to, seam to) the open end of a container (e.g., but not limited to beer / beverage cans; food cans) to seal the contents of the container therein.

[0028] As used herein, the terms “sealant” and / or “compound” are largely synonymous and are used interchangeably to refer to any known or suitable coating applied to (e.g., but not limited to, sprayed onto) the surface of a container closure.

[0029] As used herein, the term “production” refers to the output of the lining machine and is preferably measured in container closures per minute, more commonly referred to in industry as “can ends per minute” (epm).

[0030] As used in this article, a statement that “joins” two or more parts together means that the parts are joined together directly or through one or more intermediate parts.

[0031] As used in this article, the term “quantity” should refer to an integer of one or more (i.e., multiple).

[0032] Lining machine 100, for example, but not limited to Figure 1 The rotary lining machine 100 shown is used for lining (i.e., applying a sealant (not shown) or compound (not shown)) to the end 50 of a tank. The lining machine 100, generally referred to simply as a "lining machine," employs a rotary tank assembly 200 (preferably in...) according to embodiments of the disclosed concept. Figure 4-8 (as shown in the image).

[0033] like Figure 1As shown, the lining machine 100 generally includes a base 102 with a processing assembly 104. The processing assembly 104 includes a chuck assembly 106 having a number of rotatable chucks 108, and a pivotable upper turret assembly 110 disposed above the chuck assembly 106. The pivotable upper turret assembly 110 includes a tank assembly 112, the aforementioned rotating tank assembly 200, and a number of circumferentially arranged fluid dispensing devices 120 (e.g., sealant or compound guns). A lower turret assembly (not shown) is disposed within the base 102 and configured to rotate the chucks 108. An exemplary lining machine 100 includes eight (8) guns 120, each gun 120 associated with a corresponding rotatable chuck 108 of the chuck assembly 106. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable alternative number and configuration (not shown) of chucks 108 and guns 120 or other fluid dispensing devices (not shown) may be used without departing from the scope of the disclosed concept. It will also be recognized that processing component 104 may include, for example but not limited to, the structures and features disclosed in jointly owned U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 140,330, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference as if set forth herein in their entirety.

[0034] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate an upper turret assembly 10 employing a conventional tank assembly 2 for illustration and comparison with the disclosed concept of a tank assembly 200. The upper turret assembly 10 includes a rotary joint 12 with an internal bearing 14 and a seal 16, while the tank assembly 2 includes a filling tube 20, a sensor assembly 22 with multiple sensors (i.e., level probes) 24, 26, 28, and a filling insert 30, all of which are best shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 3. Three separate level probes 24, 26, 28 (e.g., low level sensor 24, medium level sensor 26, high level sensor 28) are necessary and, together with the filling tube 20, can result in a "bridging" compound 40 in the probes 24, 26, 28 (shown in simplified form as a dashed line in Figure 3). In other words, compound 40 can be aggregated together and connect or “bridge” a number of probes 24, 26, 28 and / or filling tubes 20 together, as illustrated by a simplified schematic representation 60 shown in dashed lines in Figure 3. As mentioned above, such bridging can lead to undesirable electrical communication and malfunctions or errors in the operational accuracy of probes 24, 26, 28.

[0035] Figure 3 also illustrates the susceptibility of compound 40 to centrifugal forces when tank assembly 2 rotates at relatively high speeds (e.g., between approximately 180 and 262.5 rpm). That is, as shown, compound 40 tends to overcome the radial constraints of the inner wall of the tank assembly and be pushed outwards by centrifugal forces, whereby the compound tends to climb the inner wall, forming a concave surface profile. This makes it difficult to accurately measure the actual level of compound 40. This problem is exacerbated by a number of factors, including the relatively large diameter d of the tank and the relatively high rotational speed of the tank. In the examples of Figures 2 and 3, the diameter d of the tank is 5.125 inches. The aforementioned filler insert 30 is intended to address and minimize such problems. However, it will be recognized that the filler insert 30 has limited effectiveness and also has the disadvantage of occupying valuable volume within tank assembly 2, as shown in Figure 3.

[0036] As will now refer to Figure 1 and 4 As detailed in section -8, the disclosed rotating tank assembly 200 is uniquely designed to solve and overcome the aforementioned problems.

[0037] like Figure 4 and 5 as well as Figure 6 and 7 As shown in the cross-sectional view, the rotary tank assembly 200 preferably includes: a compound tank 202; and a filling tube 204 configured to hold a certain amount of compound 300 (in... Figure 6 and 7 (Simplified form shown) Filling compound tank 202 to the desired level; sensor assembly 210 adapted to measure the level of compound 300 within compound tank 202; and rotary joint assembly 220. Rotary joint assembly 220 is configured to pivotally connect filling tube 204 and sensor assembly 210 to compound tank 202, as shown below. Figure 6 and 7 Sectional view (see also) Figure 8 The exploded diagram is best shown.

[0038] Aside from other unique features, the sensor assembly 210 of the rotating tank assembly 200 requires, and in fact uses, only a single probe 212, such as Figure 6-8 As best shown above with reference to Figures 2 and 3, the conventional can assembly 2 and the sensor assembly 22 used therefor require multiple (e.g., three or more) sensing probes 24, 26, 28, which leads to various problems, including but not limited to the aforementioned difficulties in compound accumulation and the "bridging" of compounds in the probes that causes malfunctions or operational errors (see the compound bridge 60 shown in simplified form in Figure 3). It also requires maintenance, and more specifically, requires stopping the machine, disassembling the machine, and removing the compound bridge 60 in order to restore the proper functioning of the sensing assembly 22.

[0039] An exemplary single probe 212 is a guided pulse level sensor that utilizes guided pulse technology for maintenance-free operation. That is, the single probe 212 is resistant to, for example but not limited to, problems such as: bubbling, fluid accumulation due to solidification, obstructions in tank 202, condensation, changes in fluid properties, and ripples. Therefore, the disclosed sensor assembly 210 offers less complexity while allowing for more reliable operation. Preferably, the single probe 212 and the filling tube 204 are mounted equidistant from the axis of rotation at a distance of 400°, as... Figure 6 and 7 The cross-sectional view is best shown. This is done to limit the forces applied to the individual components of the assembly and to minimize or eliminate bubbling. In addition to the advantages described above, the exemplary guided pulse level sensor 212 also has the advantage of providing continuous compound level readings. On the other hand, the conventional sensing probes 24, 26, 28 described above only provide discrete sensing capabilities (e.g., low level; high level; emergency shutdown). Therefore, the disclosed sensor assembly 210 and its individual probe 212 provide improved performance for more accurate and consistent measurement of the level of compound 300 within the compound tank 202.

[0040] Continue to refer to Figure 6 and 7 It will be appreciated that the compound container 202 includes a generally cylindrical body 206 comprising a first end 208, a second end 211 disposed opposite to and away from the first end 208, an interior 214 having an inner diameter D, and a height 216 defined by the distance between the first end 208 and the second end 211. The inner diameter D is less than 5.125 inches, and preferably about 2.750 inches. It will be appreciated that this is significantly smaller than the diameter d (Figure 3) of the conventional compound container 2 (Figures 2 and 3). Among other advantages, the smaller inner diameter D of the disclosed compound container 202 is unaffected by centrifugal forces associated with rotation. This will be referred to Figure 6 and 7Understanding the surface 240 of compound 300 as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3 reveals a less pronounced concave shape compared to surface 40 of compound 300 in the conventional tank 2 of FIG. 3. This is true even for increased rotational speeds (e.g., but not limited to, from approximately 262.5 rpm to approximately 375 rpm). This less dynamic fluid behavior of compound 300 within compound tank 202 is advantageous, as it results in more consistent and predictable operation. While the available internal volume within the interior 214 of compound tank 202 is reduced, this is offset by the fact that tank insert 30 (FIG. 3) is no longer required. The inflow rate of compound 300 via filling pipe 204 is important. Specifically, it is desirable not to fill or empty compound tank 202 for a relatively short period of time. That is, the inflow fluid flow should be slightly higher than the outflow flow to allow for a slow, well-controlled increase in the fluid level within the tank during filling cycles. For illustrative purposes, the decrease in the level of compound 300 is associated with... Figure 7 compared to, Figure 6 The fluid level of compound 300 in the sample is displayed as full.

[0041] Reference Figure 4-7 as well as Figure 8 An exploded view will reveal that the rotary joint assembly 220 of the disclosed rotary tank assembly 200 preferably includes a first rotary joint 222 and a second rotary joint 224. As... Figure 6 and 7 sectional view and Figure 8 As best shown in the exploded view, at least one of the first rotary joint 222 and the second rotary joint 224 is an air rotary joint. In the example shown, only the first rotary joint is an air rotary joint 222, while the second rotary joint is a mechanical rotary joint 224. The rotary can assembly 200 also includes a compressed air assembly 240 and a plurality of air ducts 250. The air ducts 250 are each connected to the air rotary joint 222 in a radially spaced manner, such as... Figure 8 As best shown.

[0042] In the example shown and described herein, the generally cylindrical body 206 of the compound container 202 also includes an outer periphery 270. A plurality of ribs 272, 274 (two shown) extend radially around the periphery. An air conduit 250 is coupled to an air rotary joint 222 and supported by the ribs 272, 274. That is, the ribs 272, 274 are configured to hold the air conduit 250 in a radially spaced relationship on the outer periphery 270 of the cylindrical body 206 of the compound container 202, as... Figure 4 , 5 And as shown in Figure 8 (see also Figure 8) Figure 6 and 7 (Cross-sectional view).

[0043] like Figure 8 As best shown, the sensor assembly 210 preferably includes a quick connector 280 for relatively quick and easy electrical connection and disconnection of individual probes 212. Among other advantages, this quick connector 280 eliminates the need for manual wiring of the sensor assembly 210, and thus further simplifies the complexity of the design.

[0044] Therefore, it will be recognized that the disclosed rotary tank assembly 200 improves the performance of the lining machine 100 compared to the prior art tank assembly 2 (Figures 2 and 3). Figure 1 Among other advantages, the design of the single probe 212 of the sensor assembly and the compound tank 202 provides a relatively uncomplicated system, yet offers more consistent and reliable operation. The guided pulse level sensor 212 provides continuous compound level readings while avoiding known problems such as compound bridging (see compound bridge 60, shown in simplified form in Figure 3). The relatively small inner diameter D of the compound tank 202 also minimizes the adverse hydrodynamics associated with the rotation of the tank assembly 200 and the compound 300 therein, thereby eliminating the need for any tank insert (see, for example, tank insert 30 in Figure 3) and also allowing for increased rotational speed of the tank 202 and generally higher operating speeds of the lining machine 100 (e.g., but not limited to up to about 375 rpm or higher), thus increasing production capacity.

[0045] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and alternatives to these details can be developed in light of the general teachings of this disclosure. Therefore, the specific arrangements disclosed are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the disclosed concept as given by the appended claims and any and all their equivalents.

Claims

1. A rotary tank assembly for a liner applicator configured to apply a compound to a plurality of container closures, the rotary tank assembly comprising: a compound tank; a fill tube configured to fill the compound tank with an amount of the compound to a desired level; a sensor assembly adapted to measure a level of the compound within the compound tank; and a rotary joint assembly configured to pivotably couple the fill tube and the sensor assembly to the compound tank, wherein the sensor assembly requires only a single probe, wherein the compound tank comprises a generally cylindrical body including a first end, a second end disposed opposite and distal from the first end, an interior having an inner diameter, and a height defined by a distance between the first end and the second end, wherein the rotary joint assembly comprises a first rotary joint and a second rotary joint. The single probe is a guided pulse level sensor.

2. The spin pot assembly of claim 1, wherein, The inner diameter of the compound tank is less than 5.125 inches.

3. The spin pot assembly of claim 1, wherein, The inner diameter of the compound tank is about 2.750 inches.

4. The spin can assembly of claim 3, wherein, At least one of the first rotary joint and the second rotary joint is an air rotary joint; and wherein the rotary tank assembly further comprises a compressed air assembly comprising a number of air lines coupled to the air rotary joint.

5. The spin pot assembly of claim 1, wherein, The generally cylindrical body of the compound tank further comprises an exterior having a perimeter and a plurality of ribs extending radially about the perimeter; wherein the number of air lines is a plurality of air lines; and wherein the ribs are configured to hold the plurality of air lines in a radially spaced apart relationship on the exterior of the generally cylindrical body.

6. The spin basket assembly of claim 5, wherein, The rotary tank assembly is free of any tank inserts within the interior of the compound tank.

7. The spin pot assembly of claim 1, wherein, The sensor assembly comprises a quick connector for electrically connecting and disconnecting the single probe.

8. The spin pot assembly of claim 1, wherein, 9. A liner applicator comprising: a base; and a processing assembly operably coupled to the base and adapted to apply a compound to a plurality of container closures, the processing assembly comprising a rotary tank assembly, the rotary tank assembly comprising: a compound tank, a fill tube configured to fill the compound tank with an amount of the compound to a desired level; a sensor assembly adapted to measure a level of the compound within the compound tank, and a rotary joint assembly configured to pivotably couple the fill tube and the sensor assembly to the compound tank, wherein the sensor assembly requires only a single probe, wherein the compound tank comprises a generally cylindrical body including a first end, a second end disposed opposite and distal from the first end, an interior having an inner diameter, and a height defined by a distance between the first end and the second end, wherein the rotary joint assembly comprises a first rotary joint and a second rotary joint. The single probe is a guided pulse level sensor.

10. The lining machine of claim 9, wherein, The inner diameter of the compound tank is less than 5.125 inches.

11. The lining machine of claim 9, wherein, The inner diameter of the compound tank is about 2.750 inches.

12. The lining machine of claim 11, wherein, ​ 13. The lining machine of claim 9, wherein, At least one of the first rotary joint and the second rotary joint is an air rotary joint; and wherein the rotary canister assembly further comprises a compressed air assembly comprising a number of air conduits coupled to the air rotary joint.

14. The lining machine of claim 13, wherein, The substantially cylindrical body of the compound canister further comprises an exterior having a perimeter and a plurality of ribs extending radially about the perimeter; wherein the number of air conduits is a plurality of air conduits; and wherein the ribs are configured to hold the plurality of air conduits in radially spaced apart relation on the exterior of the substantially cylindrical body.

15. The lining machine of claim 9, wherein, The rotary canister assembly is free of any canister insert inside the compound canister.

16. The lining machine of claim 9, wherein, The sensor assembly includes a quick connector for electrically connecting and disconnecting the individual probes.

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