Cover attaching mechanism and cover attaching method

Abstract

The present application relates to a capping mechanism for attaching a flange of a cap device to a container body. The capping mechanism comprises: an anvil; and a cap holding device comprising a holding portion capable of mechanically engaging with an edge of the flange of the cap device to hold the cap device on the anvil. The present application also provides a capping method for attaching a cap device to a container body using the capping mechanism. In the capping device and capping method according to the present disclosure, the cap device is held on the anvil by mechanical engagement of the cap holding device with the edge of the flange of the cap device, so it can be suitable for various types of cap devices, and does not need to additionally increase auxiliary power and additional signal points or program logic control, etc.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a capping mechanism for attaching a flange of a capping device to a container body, and a capping method for attaching a capping device to a container body using the capping mechanism. Background Technology

[0002] The content in this section provides only background information relevant to this disclosure and does not necessarily constitute prior art.

[0003] Capping mechanisms are typically used in packaging for storing various substances (also known as contents, such as liquid foods) to attach cap devices to the container body (e.g., a semi-finished cardboard box). A cap device includes a cap and a flange for attaching the cap to the container body. When operating the cap device to, for example, attach it to the container body, it is necessary to clamp, hold, secure, or attach the cap device to an anvil. For this purpose, the capping mechanism includes a cap holding device for holding the cap device to the anvil.

[0004] For cover devices with grooves on the bottom surface of the flange, a cover retaining device is known, which holds the cover device on the anvil by means of a snap-fit ​​groove. However, this cover retaining device is only applicable to cover devices with grooves on the bottom surface of the flange.

[0005] For cover devices with no groove on the flange bottom surface (flat flange bottom surface), a vacuum suction cup is proposed as a cover holding device to suction the flat bottom surface of the flange of the cover device to the anvil, thereby holding the cover device. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] As mentioned above, the cover retaining device with mechanical snap-fit ​​groove is not suitable for cover devices with no groove on the flange bottom surface (the flange bottom surface is flat), and is therefore limited by the structure or type of cover device.

[0008] Vacuum chucks have a complex structure and require additional auxiliary power (e.g., electrical circuits or air passages), as well as additional signal points or program logic control. Therefore, the efficiency and cost of the cap-applying mechanism or method are relatively low.

[0009] Technical solution

[0010] In view of the above problems, this application proposes a cap-applying mechanism, which includes a cap-holding device that is applicable to various types or structures of cap devices and has a simple structure.

[0011] According to one aspect of this application, a cap-attaching mechanism is provided for attaching a flange of a cap assembly to a container body. The cap-attaching mechanism includes: an anvil; and a cap-retaining device including a retaining portion capable of mechanically engaging an edge of the flange of the cap assembly to retain the cap assembly on the anvil.

[0012] In some embodiments, the retaining portion has an inclined guide surface configured to guide the flange of the cover device toward the anvil.

[0013] In some embodiments, the capping mechanism includes a plurality of cap retaining devices discretely distributed along the circumferential direction, each cap retaining device having a retaining portion formed at its first end, the retaining portion being hook-shaped.

[0014] In some embodiments, the plurality of cover retaining devices are integrated via a connecting portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the retaining portion is configured such that its free end can abut against the radially inner side of the annular protrusion of the flange when engaged with the edge of the flange of the cover device.

[0016] In some embodiments, the cover retainer is shaped to allow the retaining portion to undergo elastic deformation, or is made of an elastic material.

[0017] In some embodiments, each cap retaining device is secured to the anvil at its second end opposite to the first end.

[0018] In some embodiments, each cap retainer is movably mounted on the anvil.

[0019] In some embodiments, each cap retainer is arranged on the anvil in a manner that allows it to rotate about a pivot.

[0020] In some embodiments, the cap-applying mechanism further includes a biasing element configured to apply a biasing force to the cap-holding device to enable it to clamp the flange of the cap device onto the anvil.

[0021] In some embodiments, the biasing member is disposed on the side of the pivot opposite to the retaining portion.

[0022] In some embodiments, each cover retaining device includes a support rod and a plate extending to both sides perpendicular to the support rod, the support rod having a hole for inserting the pivot, the retaining portion being located at one end of the plate, and the biasing member being located at the other end of the plate.

[0023] In some embodiments, the biasing member is disposed between the anvil and the plate.

[0024] In some embodiments, the cap retaining device includes an annular body slidably disposed on the anvil, and a retaining portion extending axially from the annular body, the retaining portion being sized to engage with the edge of the flange of the cap device in an interference fit.

[0025] In some embodiments, the retaining portion extends 360 degrees in the circumferential direction.

[0026] In some embodiments, the cover retaining device includes a plurality of retaining portions discretely distributed along the circumferential direction.

[0027] In some embodiments, the cap-applying mechanism further includes a biasing element configured to apply a biasing force to the cap-retaining device to move it toward an edge engaging with the flange of the cap device.

[0028] In some embodiments, the biasing member is disposed on the side opposite to the retaining portion.

[0029] In some embodiments, the biasing element is a helical spring, and the anvil is provided with an annular groove for accommodating the helical spring.

[0030] In some embodiments, the cap-applying mechanism further includes a sliding guide structure for guiding the sliding of the cap-holding device.

[0031] In some embodiments, the sliding guide structure includes: a protrusion or recess disposed on the cap retaining device; and a recess or protrusion disposed on the anvil and cooperating with the protrusion or recess on the cap retaining device.

[0032] In some embodiments, the cap-applying mechanism further includes a positioning member for limiting the position of the cap-retaining device in the circumferential direction.

[0033] In some embodiments, the inner circumferential surface of the retaining portion is provided with a groove for the edge of the flange of the receiving cover device.

[0034] In some embodiments, at least one of the sidewalls of the groove is inclined.

[0035] In some embodiments, the capping mechanism further includes a cap pusher for pushing the cap device toward the anvil.

[0036] In some embodiments, the pusher includes: a base for pushing the top surface of the cover device; and an extension corresponding to the retaining portion extending axially from the base.

[0037] In some embodiments, the shape or length of the extension is designed such that when the inner surface of the base abuts against the top surface of the cover device, there is no interference between the extension and the retaining portion.

[0038] In some embodiments, the free end of the extension has a tapered outer surface.

[0039] In some embodiments, the push cover has a plurality of extensions discretely arranged in a circumferential direction, and the outer surface of the base has a recess in the portion corresponding to at least two adjacent extensions.

[0040] In some embodiments, the capping mechanism further includes a release device for releasing the retaining portion from the edge of the flange of the capping device.

[0041] In some embodiments, the release device has an annular body and a flat or inclined surface for pushing the retaining portion.

[0042] In some embodiments, the release device is attached to the welding head of the welding device, or is formed from a portion of the welding head.

[0043] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a capping method is provided for attaching a cap device to a container body using the aforementioned capping mechanism. The capping method includes the step of holding the cap device on the anvil by means of the cap retaining device.

[0044] In some embodiments, the capping method further includes releasing the retaining portion of the cap retaining device from the edge of the flange of the cap device by means of a release device.

[0045] In some embodiments, the capping method further includes attaching the flange of the capping device to the container body.

[0046] In some implementations, the flange of the cover assembly is welded to the container body using a welding device.

[0047] In some embodiments, the capping method further includes: releasing the retaining portion of the cap retaining device from the edge of the flange of the cap device by means of a welding head attached to the welding device or a release device integral with the welding head, while simultaneously welding the flange of the cap device to the container body.

[0048] In some embodiments, the capping method further includes moving the cap of the capping device through an opening in the container body to attach the flange of the capping device to the inner surface of the container body.

[0049] In some embodiments, the capping method further includes pushing the cap device toward the anvil by means of a cap pusher.

[0050] In some embodiments, when the cover pusher pushes the cover device toward the anvil, the retaining portion of the cover retainer engages with the edge of the flange of the cover device.

[0051] In some embodiments, the pusher is retracted after the retaining part of the cover retaining device engages with the edge of the flange of the cover device.

[0052] In some embodiments, the capping method further includes: moving the anvil from a holding position to an attachment position to attach a flange of a cap assembly held on the anvil to a container body; and moving the anvil from the attachment position to the holding position to operate on a next cap assembly.

[0053] In some embodiments, when attaching the flange of the cover device to the container body, the anvil holding the cover device and the welding device are moved toward each other.

[0054] In some embodiments, the capping method further includes applying a biasing force to the cap retaining device by means of a biasing member, causing the retaining portion to return to a position where it will engage with the edge of the flange of the cap device.

[0055] In some embodiments, the capping method further includes preventing the edge of the flange of the capping device from warping or curling by means of an axially extending extension of the pusher.

[0056] Technical effect

[0057] In the capping device and capping method according to this disclosure, the capping device is held on the anvil by engaging the edge of the flange of the capping device with the capping device, thus making it applicable to various types of capping devices, regardless of the structure of the flange bottom surface (e.g., with or without grooves).

[0058] In the cap-applying device and method according to this disclosure, the cap-holding device mechanically engages with the edge of the flange of the cap-applying device. Therefore, no additional auxiliary power (e.g., electrical or pneumatic circuits) or additional signal points or program logic control is required, thus simplifying the structure and control and reducing costs. Furthermore, minimal modifications are needed to other components of the cap-applying mechanism.

[0059] By integrating the cover pusher into the welding head of the welding device, the cover device can be welded simultaneously with its release. This reduces operation time and improves efficiency. Of course, depending on actual needs, the operation of releasing the cover device and welding the cover device can also be performed separately.

[0060] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will be more fully understood from the detailed description given below and the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration only and are not to be considered as limiting the disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0061] The features and advantages of one or more embodiments of this disclosure will become more readily understood from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0062] Figure 1A and Figure 1B These are three-dimensional schematic diagrams of an example of a cap device applied to a capping mechanism, viewed from different perspectives.

[0063] Figure 2 This is a conceptual schematic diagram of the cover-applying mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0064] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of a cover retaining device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0065] Figure 3B for Figure 3A The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of a lid retaining device mounted on an anvil and retaining the lid.

[0066] Figure 4A for Figure 3B A three-dimensional schematic diagram of several variations of the cover retaining device shown;

[0067] Figure 4B for Figure 4A The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of a lid retaining device mounted on an anvil and retaining the lid.

[0068] Figure 4C for Figure 4B A partial cross-sectional diagram;

[0069] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of a cover retaining device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0070] Figure 5B for Figure 5A The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of a lid retaining device mounted on an anvil and retaining the lid.

[0071] Figure 5C and Figure 5D for Figure 5B A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram is shown, illustrating the holding and releasing states of the cover retaining device.

[0072] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of a cover retaining device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0073] Figure 6B for Figure 6A The diagram shows a top view of the cover retaining device.

[0074] Figure 6C for Figure 6B A schematic diagram of the cover retaining device cut along line AA;

[0075] Figure 6D for Figure 6C A partially enlarged schematic diagram of the retaining part of the cover retaining device shown;

[0076] Figure 6E for Figure 6A The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of a lid retaining device mounted on an anvil and retaining the lid.

[0077] Figure 6F and Figure 6G for Figure 6E A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram is shown, illustrating the holding and releasing states of the cover retaining device.

[0078] Figure 7A for Figure 6A A three-dimensional schematic diagram of a variant of the cover retaining device shown;

[0079] Figure 7B for Figure 7A The diagram shows a partial cross-section of the lid retaining device mounted on the anvil and retaining the lid.

[0080] Figure 8A This is a perspective view of a push-top component according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0081] Figure 8B for Figure 8A The diagram shown illustrates how the lid pusher pushes the lid assembly to the anvil to hold the lid assembly.

[0082] Figure 8C for Figure 8A The top view of the push-cover component shown illustrates that the push-cover component is not obstructed by the overlapping portion when the cover devices overlap.

[0083] Figures 9A to 9C A schematic diagram illustrating the pushing process of the cover is provided.

[0084] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a release device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0085] Figure 11 for Figure 10 The diagram shown illustrates the release device being fixed to the welding device.

[0086] Figures 12A to 12C This diagram illustrates the welding apparatus welding the cap assembly to the container body, wherein the release device and the welding apparatus are integrally formed; and

[0087] Figure 13This is a flowchart of a capping method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0088] Exemplary embodiments of this application will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that in all these drawings, the same reference numerals indicate similar or corresponding portions or features. Furthermore, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For illustrative purposes, some portions may be shown at an enlarged scale.

[0089] Exemplary embodiments are provided to make this disclosure exhaustive and to convey the scope more fully to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of specific components, apparatuses, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, that exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0090] This application proposes a capping mechanism applicable to various types of cap devices with flanges and for attaching the flanges of the cap device to the container body, such as the cardboard box of this product. Figure 1A and Figure 1B These are three-dimensional schematic diagrams taken from different perspectives, illustrating an example of a capping device applied to a capping mechanism. Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the cover device 1 includes a cover 2 and a flange 4. The flange 4 is attached to the cover 2 via a connector 6, thereby forming an integral cover device 1.

[0091] The lid 2 is configured to seal the contents within a finished product container (not shown) and to allow easy access to the contents when the lid 2 is opened. When the lid 2 is screwed on, the connector 6 breaks to allow the lid 2 to be opened.

[0092] Flange 4 is configured to attach cover 2 to the container body (see also...) Figures 12A to 12C The container body (CB). In other words, the cover 2 is attached to the container body via a flange 4. The flange 4 includes a top surface 3 facing the cover 2 and extending outward relative to the cover 2, and a bottom surface 5 facing away from the cover 2. One of the top surface 3 and the bottom surface 5 can be attached to the container body. When the flange 4 is located outside the container body, the bottom surface 5 can be attached to the outer surface of the container body. When the flange 4 is located inside the container body, the top surface 3 can be attached to the inner surface of the container body.

[0093] This article will describe the case where the top surface 3 is attached to the inner surface of the container body as an example. An annular protrusion 9 can be provided on the top surface 3 at the edge 7 to improve the sealing performance.

[0094] The bottom surface 5 is essentially flat. In this context, "flat" refers to the flatness of the surface, excluding any recesses or protrusions created to meet manufacturing requirements. These recesses or protrusions, created to meet specific manufacturing requirements, are not designed or manufactured specifically for a particular function. For example, Figure 1A The central recess of the top surface 8 of the cover 2 shown in the figure and Figure 1B The central recess on the bottom surface 5 of the flange 4 shown in the diagram belongs to the recesses left due to process requirements.

[0095] It should be understood that the capping device used in the capping mechanism of this application should not be limited to... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The structure shown is not fixed, but can be changed as long as it applies to the principles of this application.

[0096] The following will refer to Figure 2 This section describes the conceptual structure and working process of the cover-applying mechanism 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cover-applying mechanism 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] like Figure 2 As shown, the capping mechanism 10 includes an anvil 11, a cap holding device 13 for holding the cap device 1 on the anvil 11, a cap pushing device 15 for pushing the cap device 1 toward the anvil 11, and a welding device (e.g., an ultrasonic welding device) 17 for attaching the cap holding device 13 to the container body (not shown). The various parts of the capping mechanism 10 will be described in detail below.

[0098] for Figure 2 The cover-applying mechanism 10 shown can push the cover device 1 in the transport path toward the anvil 11 via the cover-pushing device 15. As the cover device 1 moves to the anvil 11, the cover-holding device 13 can engage with the cover device 1 to hold it on the anvil 11. The anvil 11 can then be moved to the welding station (i.e., the attachment station), for example, as... Figure 2 Move the anvil 11 downwards to a horizontal position aligned with the welding device 17. Move the anvil 11 and / or the welding device 17 toward each other so that the cover of the cover device 1 passes through the orifice on the container body, release the cover retaining device 13, and simultaneously weld the flange of the cover device 1 to the container body.

[0099] It should be understood that the configuration of the capping mechanism according to this disclosure is not limited to the specific example shown in Figure 1, but can be varied according to actual needs. For example, components can be added or removed, or the operating steps or sequence can be changed, depending on actual needs.

[0100] The cap holding device 13 of the cap-applying mechanism 10 will now be described in detail. Figure 3AThis is a perspective view of a cover retaining device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3B for Figure 3A The diagram shows a three-dimensional view of the lid retaining device 100 mounted on the anvil 11 and retaining the lid.

[0101] Reference Figure 3A and Figure 3B The cap retaining device 100 includes an elongated body 101. The cap retaining device 100 (specifically the elongated body 101) is located at a first end ( Figure 3A A retaining portion 110 for retaining the edge 7 of the flange 4 of the cover device 1 is formed at the upper end of the middle part, and at the second end opposite to the first end ( Figure 3A The lower end of the retaining portion 110 has a fixing portion 130 for fixing to the anvil 11. A transition portion 150 is formed between the retaining portion 110 and the fixing portion 130. The retaining portion 110 is configured to rotate outward relative to the fixing portion 130 to receive or release the flange 4 when subjected to downward pressure. The retaining portion 110 may have a shape that allows elastic deformation, or may be made of an elastic material. When the external force applied to the retaining portion 110 disappears, the retaining portion 110 may return to its initial position, for example, a position that can clamp the flange 4. To facilitate movement of the retaining portion 110 relative to the fixing portion 130, the transition portion 150 may be curved or arc-shaped.

[0102] The retaining portion 110 is bent to form a hook shape, including a first portion 111 extending from the transition portion 150, a bent portion 112 extending from and bending the first portion 111, and a second portion 113 extending from the bent portion 112 and overlapping the first portion 111. The second portion 113 may form an angle relative to the first portion 111, thereby clamping or hooking the edge 7 of the flange 4. When the retaining portion 110 engages with the edge 7 of the flange 4 of the cover device 1, the free end 115 of the second portion 113 can contact, abut, or hook the edge 7 of the flange 4.

[0103] The "first end" and "second end" mentioned herein refer to the longitudinal direction along the cover retaining device 100 (i.e., Figure 3A The two opposite ends (in the vertical direction). The "free end" of the second part mentioned here refers to the portion of the retaining part 110 for engaging with the edge 7 of the flange 4.

[0104] See Figure 3A The free end 115 may include a bent portion 115a to prevent the end face from scratching the inner surface of the container body. In an example not shown, the free end 115 may include a rounded end face for abutting, clamping or hooking the edge 7 of the flange 4, thereby preventing scratching the inner surface of the container body.

[0105] The second part 113 may have a guide surface 113a that is inclined at a certain angle relative to the vertical direction. Thus, when the flange 4 of the cover device 1 moves toward the anvil 11, the guide surface 113a can guide the movement of the flange 4, causing its edge 7 to enter the retaining part 110, and allowing the edge 7 to be clamped or hooked by the second part 113 when the flange 4 abuts against the anvil 11. On the other hand, when downward pressure is applied to the guide surface 113a, it is advantageous for the second part 113 to move outward to receive or release the flange 4.

[0106] The second part 113 can clamp or hook onto the annular protrusion 9 located at the edge 7 on the top surface 3 of the flange 4. In other words, when the retaining part 110 engages with the edge 7 of the flange 4 of the cover device 1, the free end 115 of the second part 113 can engage radially inside the annular protrusion 9 of the flange 4. In this way, it can be ensured that the flange 4 is held on the anvil 11, that is, the stability of holding can be improved.

[0107] The cap-applying mechanism 10 may include a plurality of cap-holding devices 100. See also Figure 3B Four cap retaining devices 100 are discretely distributed along the circumference and fixed to the anvil 11. Figure 3B In the flange 4, four cover retaining devices 100 are clamped at equal intervals along the circumferential direction on the edge 7, wherein the free end of the retaining part 110 of each cover retaining device 100 is located radially inside the annular protrusion 9 on the flange 4.

[0108] It should be understood that the structure, quantity, and arrangement of the cover retaining device should not be limited to the specific example shown in the figure, but can be changed as needed, as long as it can achieve the edge retention of the flange as described in this article.

[0109] For example, Figures 4A to 4C It shows Figure 3B Variations of multiple cover retaining devices. Figures 4A to 4C The example includes four lid retaining devices 200, each lid retaining device 200 having a hook-shaped retaining portion 210, a fixing portion 230 for fixing to the anvil 11, and a transition portion 250 located between the retaining portion 210 and the fixing portion 230. The structure of each lid retaining device 200 is similar to... Figure 3A The structure of the single cover retaining device 100 shown is the same, and will not be described in detail here. The following will describe... Figures 4A to 4C The configuration shown is the same as Figure 3B The differences in the configurations shown.

[0110] exist Figure 3B In this case, multiple cap retaining devices 100 are each individually formed and individually fixed to the anvil 11. In contrast, in Figures 4A to 4CIn this configuration, the fixing portions 230 and transition portions 250 of multiple cap retaining devices 200 are integrated via a connecting portion 202. As shown in the figure, the fixing portions 230 and transition portions 250 of the four cap retaining devices 200 are formed into an annular shape via the connecting portion 202. This simplifies the installation process of multiple cap retaining devices.

[0111] Figures 3A to 4C In the example shown, the cover retaining devices 100 and 200 clamp the edge of the flange in a claw manner, and the retaining portions 110 and 210 are allowed to elastically deform and return to their initial position by means of their shape or elastic material. Referring below... Figures 5A to 5D The cover retaining device 300 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described. The cover retaining device 300 similarly clamps the edge of the flange in a claw manner, but unlike the cover retaining devices 100 and 200, the retaining part of the cover retaining device 300 is movably provided on the anvil 11.

[0112] See Figure 5A The cover retaining device 300 includes a support rod 301 movably connected to the anvil 11 and plates 302 extending laterally perpendicular to the support rod 301. The support rod 301 is provided with a fitting for inserting a pivot 21 (see...). Figure 5C and Figure 5D The cap retaining device 300 is pivotally connected to the anvil 11 via a pivot 21. Thus, the cap retaining device 300 can rotate about the pivot 21.

[0113] A retaining portion 310 for clamping the edge 7 of the flange 4 can be formed at the upper end of the plate 302. The retaining portion 310 has an inclined guide surface 313a and a free end 315. The guide surface 313a functions as follows: Figure 3A The guide surface 113a shown serves the same purpose: on the one hand, it guides the movement of the edge 7 of the flange 4; on the other hand, when subjected to downward pressure, it facilitates the outward movement of the retaining part 310 to receive or release the flange 4. The free end 315 extends downward from the guide surface 313a to form a hook for clamping or abutting the edge 7 of the flange 4.

[0114] A protrusion 330 may be formed at the lower end of plate 302. The protrusion 330 can be used to mount an offset component, such as... Figure 5C and Figure 5D The spring 31 is shown. Spring 31 is disposed between the anvil 11 and the plate 302. Spring 31 can apply a spring force to plate 302, causing the cover retaining device 300 to rotate about pivot 21. Figure 5C As shown, the elastic force of the spring 31 causes the cover retaining device 300 to rotate counterclockwise around the pivot 21. That is, under the action of the spring 31, the retaining part 310 of the cover retaining device 300 is in the state of clamping the edge 7 of the flange 4.

[0115] When a downward force is applied to the guide surface 313a, it overcomes the elastic force of the spring 31, causing the cover retaining device 300 to rotate clockwise about the pivot 21, as shown. Figure 5D As shown, flange 4 is thus released.

[0116] The lid retaining device 300 has a structure similar to a seesaw or lever. Multiple lid retaining devices 300 can be discretely distributed along the circumference and fixed to the anvil 11. Figure 5B In the middle, four cover retaining devices 300 are clamped at equal intervals along the circumferential direction on the edge 7 of the flange 4, wherein the free end 315 of the retaining part 310 of each cover retaining device 300 is located radially inside the annular protrusion 9 on the flange 4.

[0117] It should be understood that the manner of movement of the cap retaining device is not limited to the pivoting method shown in the figure, but can be varied. For example, the cap retaining device can move along inclined or curved tracks. Besides the claw method, other methods of engagement with the flange edge are also possible, for example, Figures 6A to 7B The interference fit shown is described below.

[0118] Figures 6A to 6G A cover retaining device 400, according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown, which is interference-fitted with the edge 7 of the flange 4 of the cover device 1. (See also...) Figures 6A to 6G The cover retaining device 400 includes an annular body 401 and a retaining part 410.

[0119] The annular body 401 is slidably disposed or mounted on the anvil 11. The annular body 401 has a central through-hole 417 for receiving the shaft 11a of the anvil 11. The circumferential surface 416a defining the central through-hole 417 and the outer surface of the shaft 11a of the anvil 11 can serve as a sliding guide structure for guiding the sliding of the cover retaining device 400. Furthermore, an annular recess 418 can be provided on the annular body 401 for receiving the annular protrusion 11b of the anvil 11. Similarly, the surfaces 416c and 416d defining the annular recess 418 and the outer surface of the annular protrusion 11b can serve as a sliding guide structure for guiding the sliding of the cover retaining device 400. Additionally, the lower outer circumferential surface 416b of the annular body 401 and the surface defining the recess 11c of the anvil 11 can also serve as a sliding guide structure for guiding the sliding of the cover retaining device 400.

[0120] An annular groove 412 may also be provided in the annular body 401 for receiving a biasing element, such as a helical spring 41. Correspondingly, an annular groove 11d for accommodating the helical spring 41 is provided in the anvil 11. It should be understood that the structure for the biasing element is not limited to the annular groove shown in the figure; for example, it could be a protrusion or a plane. The helical spring 41 applies an upward elastic force (biasing force) to the cover retaining device 400 to move it upwards to engage with the edge 7 of the flange 4 of the cover device 1, such as... Figure 6F As shown. When the retaining part 410 is subjected to a downward force, it overcomes the elastic force of the helical spring 41, causing the cover retaining device 400 to move downward until the edge 7 is released, as shown. Figure 6G As shown.

[0121] It should be understood that the structure of the body and anvil of the lid retainer should not be limited to the specific example shown in the figure, but can be varied as long as it can achieve the functions described herein.

[0122] The retaining portion 410 extends axially from the annular body 401 and is configured to interfere with the edge 7 of the flange 4 of the cover device 1. The inner circumferential dimension of the retaining portion 410 is designed to be slightly smaller than the outer circumferential dimension of the edge 7 of the flange 4. Specifically, the retaining portion 410 has an inner surface 411 that interferes with the edge 7 of the flange 4. The shape of the inner surface 411 of the retaining portion 410 corresponds to the shape of the edge 7 of the flange 4. When the edge 7 of the flange 4 is circular, the inner surface 411 of the retaining portion 410 can be arc-shaped and have an inner diameter slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the edge 7.

[0123] A groove 413 for receiving the edge 7 of the flange 4 of the cover assembly 1 may be provided on the inner peripheral surface 411 of the retaining part 410. The edge 7 of the flange 4 can enter the groove 413 when it moves to the anvil 11, thereby alleviating deformation of the edge 7 caused by the interference fit. At least one of the sidewalls 413a of the groove 413 may be inclined to guide the edge 7 into or out of the groove 413, such as... Figure 6D As shown. An inclined guide surface 415 is provided at the free end of the holding part 410, thereby guiding the edge 7 to enter the holding part 410 from above.

[0124] exist Figure 6A In the example shown, the three retaining parts 410 are discretely distributed along the circumference. It should be understood that the number, arrangement, structure, and size of the retaining parts can be changed according to actual needs, and should not be limited to the specific example shown in the figures.

[0125] The cap-applying mechanism may also include a positioning member 414 for limiting the position of the cap retaining device 400 in the circumferential direction, such as... Figure 6FAs shown. The positioning member 414 is used to prevent the cap retaining device 400 from rotating relative to the anvil 11. For example, the positioning member 414 may be a pin and hole structure, or it may be a tongue and groove structure. It should be understood that the positioning member according to this disclosure is not limited to the specific example shown in the figure, but can be changed as long as it achieves the function described herein.

[0126] For example, Figure 7A and Figure 7B It shows Figure 6A A variation of the cover retaining device. Figure 7A The cover retaining device 500 shown is... Figure 6A The difference between the illustrated cap retaining device 400 and the cap retaining device 500 is that the retaining portion 510 of the cap retaining device 500 extends 360 degrees in the circumferential direction, while the cap retaining device 400 includes a plurality of retaining portions 410 discretely distributed in the circumferential direction. The other structures of the retaining portions 510 of the cap retaining device 500 and the annular body 501 are the same as those of the cap retaining device 400, and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0127] In all the above embodiments, the retaining portion of the cap retaining device mechanically engages with the edge of the flange of the cap device to hold the cap device on the anvil. It should be understood that this disclosure does not exhaustively list all mechanical engagement methods, and the embodiments described above are merely exemplary. It should also be understood that the structure of the cap-applying mechanism and its various parts (in particular, the cap retaining device and the parts associated with the cap retaining device) can be varied as needed, as long as it achieves the functions described herein.

[0128] The following will refer to Figures 8A to 8C This describes a cover pusher 800 used to push the cover assembly 1 towards the anvil 11. For example... Figures 8A to 8C As shown, the push cover 800 includes a base 810 and an extension 812 extending from the base 810 in an axial direction.

[0129] The base 810 is configured to apply a thrust to the cover assembly 1. The inner surface 810b of the base 810 can abut against the top surface 8 of the cover 2 of the cover assembly 1, thereby applying a thrust to the top surface 8 as the base 810 moves, causing it to move towards the anvil 11. The base 810 can be made of, for example, a cylinder (such as...). Figures 9A to 9C The actuator of the cylinder 18 shown is driven. The push cover 800 and the actuator constitute as follows: Figure 2 The push-cover device 15 shown.

[0130] The extension 812 is configured to prevent the edge 7 of the flange 4 from warping or curling when it engages with the joint of the cover retainer. The inner circumferential surface 812a of the extension 812 may have the same shape as the edge 7 of the flange 4, for example, an arcuate shape with the same or slightly smaller diameter. The push cover member 800 may include multiple extensions 812. The multiple extensions 812 may have the same or different structures or dimensions.

[0131] Preferably, the extension 812 is configured such that when the cover device 1 is pushed towards the anvil 11, the extension 812 corresponds to the retaining portion of the cover retaining device. This effectively prevents deformation of the edge 7 of the flange 4. See also Figure 8B The cover retaining device 13 has three discrete retaining parts arranged in the circumferential direction, and the cover pusher 800 includes three extensions 812 that are correspondingly discretely distributed in the circumferential direction.

[0132] However, it should be understood that the term "corresponding" as used herein does not refer to a complete or definitive correspondence in size, but rather to a relative concept. For example, the circumferential dimension of the extension 812 may be slightly larger or slightly smaller than the circumferential dimension of the holding portion of the cover retaining device. For example, the position of the extension 812 in the circumferential direction may be slightly offset from the position of the holding portion of the cover retaining device in the circumferential direction; for example, they may overlap.

[0133] The shape or length of the extension 812 can be designed such that when the inner surface 810b of the base 810 abuts against the top surface 8 of the cover device 1, there is no interference between the extension 812 and the holding part of the cover holding device 13. Figure 8B The illustration shows that the pusher 800 has pushed the cover device 1 against the anvil 11, at which point the edge of the flange 4 engages with the retaining portion of the cover retaining device 13. The extension 812 of the pusher 800 corresponds to the retaining portion of the cover retaining device 13, but does not interfere with it. For example, the extension 812 and the retaining portion of the cover retaining device 13 are maintained within a predetermined gap.

[0134] The free end of the extension 812 adjacent to the cap retaining device 13 may have a tapered outer surface 812b, such that the extension 812 is tapered toward the end face. The free end of the extension 812 may be radially offset inward by a predetermined distance relative to the retaining portion of the cap retaining device 13. This is more conducive to preventing the edge 7 of the flange 4 from warping or curling.

[0135] It should be understood that the structure of the extension can vary according to actual needs (especially the retaining part of the cover retaining device) and should not be limited to the specific example shown in the figure.

[0136] The outer surface of the base 810 may have a recess 810a in the portion corresponding to at least two adjacent extensions 812. When the cover pusher 800 pushes the cover device 1, the recess 810a prevents interference between the cover device 1 and adjacent cover devices 1, particularly in cases where two adjacent cover devices 1 on the transmission line overlap (e.g., ...). Figure 8C (As shown).

[0137] Figures 9A to 9C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the pushing process of the cover pusher 800. Figure 9A In the process, the pusher 800 moves to the left under the drive of the cylinder 18, preparing to engage with the cover device 1. At this time, the anvil 11 and the cover retaining device 13 thereon are substantially aligned horizontally with the cover device 1 and the pusher 800. As the pusher 800 moves further, it engages with the cover device 1 (specifically, the cover 2 of the cover device 1) and continues to move towards the anvil 11 and the cover retaining device 13 together with the cover device 1, as... Figure 9B As shown. In Figure 9C In the middle, the pusher 800 pushes the cover device 1 to the anvil 13, so that the flange 4 abuts against the anvil 13. At this time, the holding part of the cover holding device 13 engages with the edge 7 of the flange 4.

[0138] It should be understood that the structure of the push-cover component should not be limited to the specific example shown in the figure, but can be changed as long as it can achieve the function described in this article.

[0139] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a release device 900 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The release device 900 is configured to release the flange 4 (i.e., release the cover device 1) by moving the holding portion of the cover retaining device 13 away from the edge 7 of the flange 4. After the cover retaining device 13 releases the cover device 1, the cover device 1 can be removed from the anvil 11, or operations such as welding can be performed on the cover device 1.

[0140] Reference Figure 10 The release device 900 may have an annular body 901. The annular body 901 has an end face 910 for pushing the retaining portion of the cover retaining device 13. The end face 910... Figure 10 The surface shown is flat. The flat end face 910 can be used to push downwards, such as... Figures 6A to 7B The top surface of the retaining part of the cover retaining device shown allows the cover retaining device to slide downwards to disengage from the edge 7 of the flange 4, as... Figure 6G As shown.

[0141] It should be understood that the structure of the release device should not be limited to Figure 10 The specific example shown is not applicable; it can be modified as long as it achieves the functionality described herein. For example, end face 910 can be an inclined surface to facilitate pushing, as... Figures 3A to 5DThe inclined guide surface of the retaining part of the cover retaining device shown.

[0142] Release device 900 can be as Figure 10 The individual components shown. However, the release device 900 can also be mounted or secured to other devices, for example, it can be mounted or secured to such... Figure 11 The welding head 17a of the welding device 17 shown. In this way, when the welding device 17 moves toward the cover device 1, the flange 4 can be released from the cover retaining device 13 by means of the release device 900 and the flange 4 can be welded by means of the welding head 17a.

[0143] In addition, such as Figures 12A to 12C As shown, the release device 900 can also be integrated with the welding head 17a of the welding device 17. In other words, a portion of the welding head 17a of the welding device 17 can serve as the release device 900.

[0144] Figures 12A to 12C This diagram illustrates the welding device 17 welding the cover device 1 to the container body CB. Figure 12A As shown, the cap device 1 is held on the anvil 11 by the cap retaining device 13. The anvil 11, carrying the cap device 1, moves to the welding station (i.e., the attachment station) to be horizontally aligned with the welding device 17. The container body CB is located between the cap device 1 and the welding device 17.

[0145] like Figure 12B As shown, the welding device 17 and / or the anvil 11 move toward each other such that the cover 2 of the cover device 1 passes through the orifice on the container body CB, while the flange 4 abuts against the inner surface of the container body CB. The welding device 17 pushes the retaining part of the cover retaining device 13 to move it, thereby releasing the flange 4. At the same time, the welding device 17 welds the top surface 3 of the flange 4 to the inner surface of the container body CB.

[0146] like Figure 12C As shown, after welding is completed, the welding device 17 and / or the anvil 11 move away from each other. At this time, the cover device 1 has been attached to the container body CB, and the welding device 17 and the anvil 11 also move away from the container body CB with the cover device 1.

[0147] The embodiments of the capping mechanism and its various parts according to this disclosure have been described above. The capping method for attaching or attaching a cap device to a container body using this capping mechanism will now be described. Figure 13 This is a flowchart of a capping method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (Refer to...) Figure 13 When describing the covering method according to embodiments of this disclosure, it may also be combined with Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cover-applying mechanism 10.

[0148] See Figure 13First, at step S11, it is detected whether there is a container body (e.g., a cardboard box). If there is no cardboard box, proceed to step S21 to supply a cardboard box to the corresponding workstation. If a cardboard box is detected, proceed to step S12.

[0149] In step S12, the presence of a cover device is detected. If a cover device is present, it can be operated to proceed to step S13. If no cover device is present, the cover application method ends, indicating that the cover application operation has been completed, or that a fault has occurred and needs to be investigated.

[0150] At step S13, an actuator (e.g., a cylinder) is activated to actuate the cover pusher, causing the cover pusher to engage with the cover assembly and push the cover assembly toward the anvil, as shown below. Figures 9A to 9C As shown. During the process of pushing the cover device, the extension of the cover pusher can also be used to prevent the edge of the cover device flange from warping or curling. When the cover pusher pushes the cover device to the anvil, the cover retaining device on the anvil engages with the edge of the cover device flange and thus holds the cover device on the anvil. After holding the cover device on the anvil, the cover pusher can retract.

[0151] Next, step S14 is performed, moving the anvil along with the cover device until it reaches the welding station (i.e., the attachment station). The actuator used to move the anvil is not limited, as long as it performs the functions described herein. For example, the actuator used to move the anvil could also be a cylinder.

[0152] After the anvil, carrying the cover assembly, moves to the welding station, the anvil is moved toward the welding head of the welding device (step S15a), and simultaneously the welding head of the welding device is moved toward the anvil (step S15b). At this time, the container body is located between the cover assembly and the welding device. See [link to previous section]. Figure 12A As the anvil and welding head move toward each other, the cover of the capping device extends through the orifice of the container body, while the flange abuts against the inner surface of the container body. At this time, the welding head also moves to the capping device.

[0153] Next, in step S16, see Figure 12B The welding head continues to move to push the retaining part of the cover retainer, causing the flange to release from the cover retainer. Simultaneously, the welding head abuts against the container body CB to weld the inner surface of the container body CB to the top surface of the flange, for example, by ultrasonic welding. After the cover retainer releases the flange, the retaining part of the cover retainer can be returned to a position where it will engage with the edge of the flange of the next cover assembly by means of a biasing element such as a spring. After welding is completed, step S17 can be performed.

[0154] In step S17, see Figure 12CThis allows the welding device and anvil to retract. At this point, the cover device is attached to the container body CB. The welding device and anvil can then be moved away from each other from the container body CB. Step S17 can be the reverse of steps S15a and S15b, causing the welding device and anvil to return to, for example, the position at the end of step S14.

[0155] Next, at step S18, the anvil continues to return, for example, to the position as in step S13. Step S18 can be the reverse of step S14. At this point, the capping process of the capping device ends, and the operation can be repeated for the next capping device.

[0156] It should be understood that, referring to Figure 13 The described capping method is merely exemplary. The capping method according to this disclosure should not be limited to... Figure 13 The specific examples shown are not definitive and can be varied as needed. For instance, the execution order of the steps in the overlay method can be changed without contradiction. For example, one or more steps can be added or omitted as needed.

[0157] Although various embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail herein, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described and shown herein, and other variations and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. All such variations and modifications fall within the scope of this invention. Moreover, all components, parts, or features described herein can be replaced by other structurally and functionally equivalent components, parts, or features.

Claims

1. A cap-attaching mechanism for attaching a flange of a cap assembly to a container body, wherein, The capping mechanism includes: Anvil; A cap retaining device, comprising an annular body and a retaining portion, the annular body being slidably disposed on the anvil, the retaining portion extending axially from the annular body, the retaining portion being sized such that the retaining portion can engage with the edge of the flange of the cap device in an interference fit thereby retaining the cap device on the anvil. A biasing element, wherein the biasing element is configured to apply a biasing force to the cover retaining device to enable it to move in a direction engaging with the edge of the flange of the cover device; and A release device for releasing the retaining part from the edge of the flange of the cover device. The release device is attached to the welding head of the welding device, or is formed from a portion of the welding head.

2. The capping mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining part has an inclined guide surface configured to guide the flange of the cover device toward the anvil.

3. The capping mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining part extends 360 degrees in the circumferential direction.

4. The capping mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, The cover retaining device includes a plurality of retaining parts discretely distributed along the circumferential direction.

5. The capping mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, The biasing member is located on the side opposite to the retaining portion.

6. The capping mechanism according to claim 5, wherein, The biasing element is a helical spring, and the anvil is provided with an annular groove for accommodating the helical spring.

7. The capping mechanism according to claim 1 further includes a sliding guide structure for guiding the sliding of the cap holding device.

8. The capping mechanism according to claim 7, wherein, The sliding guide structure includes: a protrusion or recess provided on the cover retaining device; and a recess or protrusion provided on the anvil and cooperating with the protrusion or recess on the cover retaining device.

9. The capping mechanism according to claim 1 further includes a positioning member for limiting the position of the cap retaining device in the circumferential direction.

10. The capping mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The inner circumferential surface of the retaining part is provided with a groove for the edge of the flange of the receiving cover device.

11. The capping mechanism according to claim 10, wherein, At least one of the sidewalls of the groove is inclined.

12. The capping mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 9, 11, further comprising a cap-pushing member for pushing the cap device toward the anvil.

13. The capping mechanism according to claim 12, wherein, The push-cover component includes: The base for pushing the top surface of the cover device; and An extension corresponding to the retaining portion that extends from the base in the axial direction.

14. The capping mechanism according to claim 13, wherein, The shape or length of the extension is designed such that when the inner surface of the base abuts against the top surface of the cover device, there is no interference between the extension and the retaining part.

15. The capping mechanism according to claim 14, wherein, The free end of the extension has a tapered outer surface.

16. The capping mechanism according to claim 13, wherein, The push-cover member has a plurality of extensions discretely arranged along the circumferential direction, and the outer surface of the base has a recess in the portion corresponding to at least two adjacent extensions.

17. The capping mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, The release device has an annular body and a flat or inclined surface for pushing the retaining part.

18. A method for attaching a cap device to a container body using a capping mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 17, comprising the following steps: The cap device is held on the anvil by means of the cap retaining device.

19. The capping method according to claim 18, further comprising: The retaining part of the cover retaining device is released from the edge of the flange of the cover device by means of a release device.

20. The capping method according to claim 18, further comprising: Attach the flange of the cover device to the container body.

21. The method of applying a cap according to claim 20, wherein, The flange of the cover assembly is welded to the container body using a welding device.

22. The method of applying a cap according to claim 18, further comprising: By means of a welding head attached to the welding device or a release device integral with the welding head, the retaining part of the cover retaining device is released from the edge of the flange of the cover device, while the flange of the cover device is welded to the container body.

23. The method of applying a cap according to any one of claims 20 to 22, further comprising: Move the cover of the cover device through the orifice of the container body so that the flange of the cover device can be attached to the inner surface of the container body.

24. The capping method according to claim 18, further comprising: The cover device is pushed toward the anvil by means of a cover pusher.

25. The method of applying a cap according to claim 24, wherein, When the cover pusher pushes the cover device toward the anvil, the retaining part of the cover retaining device engages with the edge of the flange of the cover device.

26. The method of applying a cap according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, After the retaining part of the cover retaining device engages with the edge of the flange of the cover device, the cover pusher is retracted.

27. The capping method according to claim 20 or 22, further comprising: Move the anvil from the holding position to the attachment position so as to attach the flange of the cap device held on the anvil to the container body; as well as The anvil is moved from the attachment station to the holding station in order to operate the next cover device.

28. The method of applying a cap according to claim 21 or 22, wherein, When attaching the flange of the cover device to the container body, the anvil and the welding device holding the cover device are moved toward each other.

29. The method of applying a cap according to any one of claims 18 to 22, 24 to 25, further comprising: By means of a biasing element, a biasing force is applied to the cover retaining device, causing the retaining part to return to a position where it will engage with the edge of the flange of the cover device.

30. The capping method according to claim 24 or 25, further comprising: The axially extending extension of the push cover prevents the flange edge of the cover device from warping or curling.

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